AT&T’s USBConnect Lightning 3G LaptopConnect wireless modem delivers enhanced mobile broadband performance on the company’s 3G network for Internet access. It’s compatible with AT&T’s High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) 7.2 technology, which provides download speeds up to 7.2 Mbits/s wherever this service is deployed.

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Customers can use the Lightning to access e-mail, the Internet, and business applications from their laptop while they’re away from home or work (see the figure). Made by Sierra Wireless, its small and elegant design includes an illuminated faceplate and USB hinge for use with different laptop designs.  

With the upgrade to HSPA 7.2 technology, AT&T continues to roll out its 3G networks. AT&T plans to initially deploy HSPA 7.2 in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Miami by the end of the year. It also plans to deploy HSPA 7.2 in 25 of the nation’s 30 largest markets by the end of 2010 and to reach about 90% of its existing 3G network footprint with HSPA 7.2 by the end of 2011.

AT&T’s USBConnect Lightning 3G LaptopConnect wireless modem delivers enhanced mobile broadband performance on the company’s 3G network for Internet access. It’s compatible with AT&T’s HSPA 7.2 technology, which provides download speeds up to 7.2 Mbits/s wherever this service is deployed.

The Lightning comes pre-loaded with AT&T Communication Manager (ACM) 7.0 to help customers manage their connections. The newly revamped software will automatically connect users to an AT&T hotspot at no cost on eligible rate plans. Customers can download the latest version of AT&T Communication Manager at www.att.com/communicationmanager. ACM 7.0 is compatible with Microsoft Windows 7.

AT&T DataConnect plans offer consumer, small business, and enterprise subscribers access to the nation’s fastest 3G mobile broadband network, along with access to more than 20,000 AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide with eligible rate plans and Wi-Fi equipped laptops. Options include a 200-Mbyte plan for a newly reduced price of $35 per month or a 5-Gbyte plan for $60 per month.

The Lightning will be available in retail stores, business channels, and online nationwide beginning November 22 at no cost after a $100 mail-in rebate with a DataConnect Plan of at least $35 a month. Pay $99.99 after a two-year agreement, and receive a $100 AT&T Promotion Card.