Sierra supports Telstra’s HSPA+ network

Sierra Wireless is supporting Telstra’s launch of its dual-channel HSPA+ network in Australia with some of the fastest modems the company ever has produced.

The Sierra Wireless AirCard(R) 312U wireless USB modem, is commercially available in Australia, marketed as the Telstra Ultimate USB modem. With it, Australians working at client locations, at airports or on their commute home can access the Internet and online applications at speeds typically reserved for office environments.

Dual-channel HSPA+ doubles the speeds of current HSPA+ networks from a peak downlink of 21 megabits per second (Mbps) to 42 Mbps, at the same time improving network efficiency and providing a better experience for customers with more consistent network performance. Customers using a Telstra Ultimate USB modem in enabled coverage areas will experience real-world download speeds up to 20 Mbps.

"The new speeds have the potential to increase how and where our small and large business customers work - boosting productivity in the process," said Mike Wright, Executive Director, Telstra Networks & Access Technologies.

"Our customers have told us that they want higher speed mobile broadband so they can work more flexibly outside of the office and we are delighted to offer them these new speeds," he added.

In addition to the commercial launch of the AirCard 312U, Sierra Wireless introduced the AirPrime MC8801, as well as the AirPrime MC8704 and MC8705 intelligent embedded modules for HSPA+ networks, to support manufacturers incorporating wireless connectivity into a variety of devices, including notebook, netbook, and tablet computers; connected consumer electronics products like personal navigation devices; and home or enterprise-class routers.