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CNET editors' rating:
3.0 stars
Good
Detailed editors' rating - Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 reviews
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Product summary
The good: Allows multiple users to get a Wi-Fi connection with a single 3G data access account and card; supports multiple types of 3G networks and service providers; has all the standard security options (configurable through a useful Web interface); supports 802.11g; isn't too expensive.
The bad: Though aesthetically interesting, the 3G Phoebus's design isn't very practical, nor does the unit feel solidly constructed. Also, on top of the $399 for the router, you'll have to pay for a data access plan, which will run you an additional $40 to $60 per month.
The bottom line: If you live in an area covered by a 3G data network and need mobile Internet access for multiple users, the 3G Phoebus MB6000 cellular router is a good bet.
CNET editors' review
- Reviewed on: 06/02/2006
- Released on: 08/01/2005
Cellular routers are gaining attention as a solution for mobile work teams or emergency crews that need access to the Internet but have no permanent base. Another common use for these 3G/Wi-Fi routers is in commuter vehicles, such as trains or company buses, but if you're just hankering to be online with a few friends in the park, this could be a good, if expensive, solution. As with the Junxion Box and the Kyocera KR1 router, the 3G Phoebus is a Wi-Fi router that uses the cellular data network for a back-end broadband connection. Like the Junxion Box, the 3G Phoebus uses data PC cards, whereas the KR1 router can access the network via data PC card or an EV-DO-enabled phone, which could mean one less product for you to purchase if you already have an EV-DO phone with a data plan.
Right out of the box, the 3G Phoebus is eye-catching. In a departure from the standard boxy router, the 3G Phoebus is a small, glossy-black pyramid (it also comes in silver and white, though only the black model is available in the United States). Each side of the base is 8 inches wide and the unit stands about 6 inches tall. While aesthetically attractive, it's not practically designed: for mobile teams, space is at a premium, and this oddly shaped router could be difficult to pack in with other gear. Also, the pyramid shape precludes stacking other gear (such as switches or hubs) on top, though it can sit steadily atop other equipment on its four rubber feet.
The front of the pyramid has a silver power button and four LEDs (power, 3G network activity, Wi-Fi activity, and Ethernet). The two sides have vents near the base, while the back of the unit houses the PC Card slot, a single Ethernet port, a serial port, and a power port. The box is very lightweight, almost to the point of feeling chintzy. We'd advise against placing the 3G Phoebus on the floor; a solid kick is likely to crack the case.
The 3G Phoebus works with all the major 3G networks, including EDGE, UMTS, and EV-DO and supports a variety of cards from Verizon, Sprint, Alltel and AT&T/Cingular. (You can find the list of supported networks and cards here.) You'll have to check with the various network providers to see if your geographic area is covered by one of these high-speed data networks. We did our test run with the Novatel V620 from Verizon.
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