The Beceem BCS500 multi-mode chip supports the latest revisions of the IEEE 802.16 standard, namely 16e and 16m, as well as the 3GPP-LTE standard, based on Release 8 specifications. It is the only device chip to support UE Class 4 capabilities. In addition, it supports both TDD and FDD configurations for LTE and IEEE 802.16m, even enabling real-time band/channel reconfiguration through a unique multi-mode “autosense” feature that automatically detects the network type.

The Beceem 4G-LTE/WiMAX chip supports up to 150Mbps downlink speeds, and once again sets the gold standard for how 4G terminals should work with any technology, network or configuration. The BCS500 ends the 4G debate by connecting to any 4G LTE or WiMAX network with seamless roaming, and switching between TDD and FDD configuration as needed, freeing operators from concerns how best to utilize their available spectrum assets.

• Discuss Beceem Integrated 4G LTE/WiMax on 4GForums

As the wireless world awaits the coming of 4G from Verizon and AT&T with feverish anticipation, Sprint remains the only wireless carrier that currently has 4G in the US (WiMAX). The technology that AT&T and Verizon have chosen for their 4G networks is LTE (Long Term Evoloution) which will compete with WiMAX for 4G marketshare. Verizon has announced plans to begin launching their LTE network by the end of the year, but AT&T has not yet announced official plans for when their 4G service will become available.

AT&T is still working on building out their 3G network, which still isn't available in nearly as many places as Sprint's or Verizon's 3G, but they are also looking to the future and trying to determine how they will build out their 4G network as well. AT&T is hoping that they will be able to utilize their existing infrastructure that is currently in use on their 3G network to build out their 4G network, which would make the switch much quicker. According to Gordon Mansfield, director of AT&T’s radio access domain, "AT&T won’t be able to merely flip a switch in 2011 and have an instant LTE network—there is still extensive network deployment necessary to build the LTE network. The biggest thing is that the equipment we buy today is upgradable in some way to LTE. If I put LTE in at a different band I obviously need new radios, but the bottom line is on our base station equipment there are a lot of things that are completely re-usable.”

The advantage that Mansfield is describing with the ability to reuse multiple components of their infrastructure will make AT&T's transition from 3G to 4G more smooth and more affordable - and hopefully quicker. The launch of AT&T's 4G network still remains in the relatively distant future, but we are happy to see that they are working internally to plan for the upgrade. Stay tuned on 4ginfo for more information on AT&T's LTE plans and all things 4G!

Discuss AT&T's 4G plans on the 4G Forums

CLEAR is kicking off the month of February with some very exciting changes to their lineup of 4G modems and service plans!

New CLEAR Devices:

CLEAR "Series M" Home Modem (left): The new "Series M" modem is the successor to the original Home Modem and features an enhanced internal antenna for improved reception. The "Series M" modem is available for $79.99 or it can be leased for $4.99/mo if you select a 2-year contract. 

The "Series M" modem is only available to customers in Portland, Atlanta, Milledgeville, Salem, Chicago, Bellingham, All Texas Markets, Boise, Honolulu, Maui, Kitsap, Seattle, Snohomish, Tacoma, and Houston - customers in other markets should consider the original home modem.

CLEAR 4G Mobile USB Modem (PXU1900) (right): This is the successor to the CLEAR USB modem, and offers some nice benefits over the original. Its internal antenna has been improved for better reception, and it consumes much less power (very important if you're using it in your laptop and your laptop is not plugged in). It also has a hinged/swivel design, meaning you can flip it up instead of having it stick straight out of your laptop. The most exciting aspect of the PXU1900, though, is that it can be used with the optional USB Performance Dock, which also debuted today, for better signal (see more below)!

Like the original CLEAR USB modem, the PXU1900 is compatible with both Macs and PCs. As far as routers go, st launch it is only compatible with the PHS300 and MBR1000, but we anticipate that it will be compatible with other Cradlepoint modems in the near future.

The PXU1900 is available for $59.99 or it can be leased for $4.99/mo if you select a 2-year contract.

CLEAR USB Performance Dock (left):  This is a great accessory for the new PXU1900 USB modem, and the first of its kind for WiMAX! The Performance Dock provides increased signal and performance to the PXU1900, and is super portable and easy to use. Instead of connecting the modem directly to your computer, you simply place it in the Performance Dock and then connect the Dock to your computer via USB. Best of all, the USB Performance Dock is a bargain at just $9.99!

IMPORTANT: the Performance Dock is ONLY compatible with the new Mobile USB WiMAX Modem; it is NOT compatible with the original CLEAR USB modem or the 4G+ (U300) modem.

CLEAR Plan Changes:

• CLEAR has responded to Sprint's new 3G/4G pricing by lowering their price for 3G/4G service, too: CLEAR users can now get unlimited 4G access and 5GB of 3G access for just $55/mo (the price was previously $70/mo)!
• CLEAR has also added a new promo just for customers in the Portland/Salem market - these lucky folks can get the "Pick 2" service plan (service for either two USB devices or home modem and one USB modem) for just $45/month (regular price is $65/month)!

4G Routers for CLEAR/Sprint Modems

4G wireless internet service available from CLEAR's w100 or u300 (AKA the "4G+" modem) USB modems and Sprint's U300 and the new u301 USB modem, can be a perfect solution for folks who live and work on the road in areas with 4G coverage... but what if you want to share that internet connection with multiple devices when you back at home or at the office? Being able to provide internet access to ALL of your computers and other wireless-enabled devices like the iPod Touch, Sony PSP, or Nintendo DS would make your 4G service even more valuable

Now that 4G coverage is spreading to many more cities, we're getting this question more often: how can I share 4G service from my USB modem with multiple computers, or other devices that need internet access?

The great news is that there are several 4G routers available that allow you to do just that! Mobile broadband routers like the Cradlepoint models sold by 3Gstore work just like the more common 'cable/dsl' router you might have used in the past for a home/office DSL or cable-modem connection, but mobile broadband routers have the unique ability to support 4G modems as their source of internet connectivity. With a router that supports your4G  device, you can plug in your 4G USB modem and instantly create your own local area/WiFi network, powered by 4G connectivity!

3GStore.com has been selling these specialty routers for over five years now and no online company has sold and supported mobile broadband routers longer than 3Gstore has! While there are literally thousands of network experts who can work magic with conventional routers, we're the experts at mobile broadband routers. Quite often, we get phone calls from "network experts" who just don't get this "mobile broaband stuff"... we understand... this stuff can be tricky.

The 4G router setups are some of the trickiest configurations we've ever had to support, and we know it will be challenging for even the seasoned mobile broadband users. Thats why when you buy a 4G router from 3Gstore.com, we offer a service to pre-configure the router for your 4G USB modem, before it even leaves our warehouse... for just $15 more than the sale price of the router itself! Allowing us to pre-configure your router for 4G use could mean a lot less frustration for you -- we really think its worth the money.

Of course, even if you don't pay us to pre-configure your router for 4G use, we'll provide you with our 3gstore-prepared Support CD that includes our latest tipsheets, the latest router firmware, the latest 4G modem firmware, and utilities our tech support department have found useful for helping customers out of tricky situations.

Which 4G Router For You?
Choosing between the many Cradlepoint 4G options might be a challenge for those of new to mobile broadband. We're here to help. You'll find complete compatibility information maintained at our sister site: http://www.EVDOinfo.com/routers -- and here is some info that compares the major 4G router options. (note: router firmware to support Sprint's u301 will be available shortly after this article is published. watch this thread on 4gforums.com for an announcement)

Cradlepoint PHS300 Battery Powered Router
Carriers Supported: Sprint, Verizon, CLEAR, Alltel, AT&T - see router compatibility chart
Form Factors Supported: USB, ExpressCard (with ExpressCard-to-USB adapter)
Wireless Range: Operates on Wireless "G". Range is approximately 80 feet, depending upon factors such as interference from other electronics and physical interference such as thick walls. Range CANNOT be improved (no port for WiFi antenna)
Ethernet Ports: ZERO. Do NOT puchase this router if you need to hardwire a computer via ethernet! If you have a computer that does not have wireless capabilites, you can purchase an 802.11N USB Adapter to make it WiFi-compatible!
Load Balancing: NO
Portability: The best!! Built-in battery provides about 2 hours of WiFi when you don't have a power source. Very compact and light; cigarette lighter adapter available (also charges battery).
Manufacturer Support: Excellent. Cradlepoint is very responsive to suggestions and complaints and makes a concerted effort to improve their products. Very quick to release firmware updates to support more devices/fix bugs.
PROs: The only 3G router to feature a built-in rechargable battery, compatible with many aircards and phones/PDAs, compact, good security options, WiPipe technology improves performance of most difficult connection types, latest version supports 4G WiMAX (note: if you have an older "version 1" PHS300, it is NOT compatible with 4G)
CONs: Wireless G, no option to add a WiFi antenna, no ethernet port, no indicator showing battery life (additional batteries available)
This Router is Best For: With its built-in battery, the PHS300 is ideal for anyone on the go -- business executives, reporters, bloggers, even families on road trips! Thanks to its diminutive size, this router can be taken anywhere and used for up to two hours without even being plugged into a power outlet!

Read the full review
Purchase the PHS300 from 3Gstore

Cradlepoint CTR500
Carriers Supported: Sprint, Verizon, CLEAR, Alltel, AT&T - see router compatibility chart
Form Factors Supported: USB, ExpressCard
Wireless Range: Operates on Wireless "G". Range is approximately 80 feet, depending upon factors such as interference from other electronics and physical interference such as thick walls. For more range, add the optional wifi antenna for up to 30% more WiFi coverage.
Ethernet Ports: One 10/100 Ethernet port operates as WAN input or LAN output
Load Balancing: YES
Portability: Excellent. Very compact and comes bundled with both a "global" 110/240v ac adapter as well as a 12v cigarette lighter adapter
Manufacturer Support: Excellent. Cradlepoint is very responsive to suggestions and complaints and makes a concerted effort to improve their products. Very quick to release firmware updates to support more devices/fix bugs.
PROs: Same high-power processor as flagship MBR1000 router, ExpressCard slot (some ExpressCards can be used with the PHS300 but only with an adapter), compatible with many devices including many phones/PDAs, compact, antenna jack to improve WiFi range, signal strength lights on body, supports fail-over (with priority assignments), supports load balancing, global ac power adapter, WiPipe technology improves performance of most difficult connection types, compatible with 4G WiMAX
CONs: Not many for this great router! Wireless N would be preferable to G, however.
This Router is Best For: The CTR500 is excellent for travelers and home/office users alike. The small size, signal indicator lights and included cigarette lighter adapter make it a great choice for RV-ers. With the extensive list of supported devices - including many phones/PDAs - and Cradlepoint's track record for providing updates when new devices debut, the CTR500 is a great investment likely to last a long time, even if you upgrade your device.

Read the full review
Purchase the CTR500 from 3Gstore

Cradlepoint MBR900
Carriers Supported: Sprint, Verizon, CLEAR, Alltel, AT&T - see router compatibility chart
Form Factors Supported: USB, ExpressCard (with ExpressCard-to-USB adapter)
Wireless Range: Operates on Wireless "N" and is backwards-compatible with B/G. Range is very good, 6-10x what you'll see with a wireless G router. Even your G devices will benefit from the super-powerful N radio (or purchase an N adapter and upgrade your computer!). Of course, remember that range can depend on factors such as interference from other electronics and physical interference such as thick walls.
Ethernet Ports: Four (4) 10/100 LAN ethernet ports, One (1) 10/100 WAN ethernet port
Load Balancing: No
Portability: Average. It's not huge and there is a cigarette lighter adapter available, but its two non-removable WiFi antennas make it a bit bulky.
Manufacturer Support: Excellent. Cradlepoint is very responsive to suggestions and complaints and makes a concerted effort to improve their products. Very quick to release firmware updates to support more devices/fix bugs.
PROs: Wireless N provides great range, compatible with many devices including many phones/PDAs, signal strength lights on body, four ethernet LAN ports and a WAN port, works great as a cable/dsl/satellite router (with optional failover to cellular), least expensive 3G/4G cellular router that features 802.11 N WiFi, WiPipe technology improves performance of most difficult connection types, compatible with 4G WiMAX
CONs: No load balancing, USB port only.
This Router is Best For: The MBR900 is a great "entry level home-use router" and it's a good choice for customers who want wireless "N" and multiple ethernet ports but don't need the additional features that the MBR900's bigger brothers like the MBR1000 and MBR1200 can provide (such as load balancing and support for ExpressCards and PCMCIA cards).

Read the full review
Purchase the MBR900 from 3Gstore

Cradlepoint MBR1000 - the Flagship 3G/4G Router
Carriers Supported: Sprint, Verizon, CLEAR, Alltel, AT&T - see router compatibility chart
Form Factors Supported: USB (2), ExpressCard
Wireless Range: Operates on Wireless "N" and is backwards-compatible with B/G. Range is excellent, 6-10x what you'll see with a wireless G router. Even your G devices will benefit from the super-powerful N radio (or purchase an N adapter and upgrade your computer!). Of course, remember that range can depend on factors such as interference from other electronics and physical interference such as thick walls.
Ethernet Ports: Four 10/100Mbps Auto-MDIX LAN Port and one 10/100Mbps WAN Port
Load Balancing: YES
Portability: Average. It's not huge and there is a cigarette lighter adapter available, but its three non-removable WiFi antennas make it a bit bulky.
Manufacturer Support: Excellent. Cradlepoint is very responsive to suggestions and complaints and makes a concerted effort to improve their products. Very quick to release firmware updates to support more devices/fix bugs.
PROs: More powerful on-board processor than PHS300, Wireless N radio provides excellent WiFi range, ExpressCard slot (some ExpressCards can be used with the PHS300 but only with an adapter), compatible with many devices including many phones/PDAs, supports fail-over (with priority assignments), four ethernet LAN ports and a WAN port, works great as a cable/dsl/satellite router (with optional failover to cellular), supports load balancing, great admin features, signal lights on router body, WiPipe technology improves performance of most difficult connection types, supports 4G WiMAX
CONs: The antennas are not user-removable, so there is no easy way to improve your WiFi range (although the range is excellent).
This Router is Best For: The MBR1000 is the top-of-the-line 3G/4G router and is an awesome choice for just about any application (unless you have a PCMCIA card). Excellent value for the money and a great long-term investment thanks to its wireless N radio and frequent firmware upgrades courtesy of Cradlepoint. There isn't much you can't do with this router!!

Read the full review
Purchase the MBR1000 from 3Gstore

Cradlepoint MBR1200
Carriers Supported: Sprint, Verizon, CLEAR, Alltel, AT&T - see router compatibility chart
Form Factors Supported: USB (3), ExpressCard, PCMCIA (the ONLY Cradlepoint router that supports PCMCIA!)
Wireless Range: Operates on 802.11 "N" and is backwards-compatible with B/G; even your G devices will benefit from the super-powerful N radio (or purchase an N adapter and upgrade your computer!). Range is excellent, several times what you'll see with a wireless G router, although slightly less than the MBR1000 because the MBR1200 does not come with external WiFi antennas attached. Optional external WiFi antennas are also available to increase your WiFi range even more. Of course, remember that range can depend on factors such as interference from other electronics and physical interference such as thick walls.
Ethernet Ports: Four (4) gigabit 10/100/1000 LAN/WAN configurable ports and One (1) 10/100/1000 WAN (ethernet)
Load Balancing: YES
Portability: Average. Larger than the "travel routers" but more compact than the MBR1000 (because there are no attached WiFi antennas). There is also a cigarette lighter adapter available for use on the go.
Manufacturer Support: Excellent. Cradlepoint is very responsive to suggestions and complaints and makes a concerted effort to improve their products. Very quick to release firmware updates to support more devices/fix bugs.
PROs: More powerful on-board processor than PHS300, Wireless N radio provides excellent WiFi range, optional external WiFi antennas are available to improve the WiFi range even more, more modem ports than any other 3G router, ExpressCard slot (some ExpressCards can be used with the PHS300 but only with an adapter), ONLY Cradlepoint router with a PCMCIA card slot, compatible with many devices including many phones/PDAs, supports fail-over (with priority assignments),support for up to five concurrent VPN sessions, four gigabit ethernet LAN ports and a WAN port, works great as a cable/dsl/satellite router (with optional failover to cellular), supports load balancing, great admin features, signal lights on router body, WiPipe technology improves performance of most difficult connection type, optional security enclosure available, supports 4G WiMAX
CONs: Not many for this powerful router! The higher cost may be hard to justify for users that don't need all the features, though.
This Router is Best For: The MBR1200 is a no-brainer for PCMCIA card users (if you upgrade in the future to an ExpressCard or USB modem, you won't need a new router!), and folks needing advanced VPN functionality will love it as well. Load balancers will love its five modem ports, and the optional security enclosure make it a great choice for in-the-field applications.

Read the full review
Purchase the MBR1200 from 3Gstore

Cox Communications announced Monday that they had tested placing calls and streaming video using the 4G wireless technology LTE.

The company is rolling out wireless services this year, using older, 3G technology. Cox indicates that they will begin to roll out their 3G coverage in Hampton Roads, VA , Orange County, CA and Omaha, NE.

Cox tested Long Term Evolution [LTE], in Phoenix and San Diego.

Cox is among the first companies to test LTE, which promises higher data speeds than 3G. Verizon Wireless conducted its first tests in August. It plans to roll out LTE in up to 30 markets this year.

•  Discuss Cox's LTE trials on the 4G Forums