Wireless broadband connectivity for home users

Cell C has released a mobile USB modem aimed at the residential PC and dial-up market. The USB modem uses the cellular provider's EDGE coverage and network, which provides data speeds of up to three times faster than dialup. In areas where there is no EDGE coverage, the modem will automatically revert to GPRS coverage.

Says Vanashree Pillay, executive head of corporate communications at Cell C, "This modem is perfect for the family user who uses the Internet frequently for online banking, research and correspondence with friends and family but does not require the intensive use a business person would.

The new USB modem is supposed to provide always-on connectivity, affordability and data speeds of around three times that of dial-up i.e. using a land line connection.

"You simply insert a sim card, plug the modem into your desktop, load the software and you are on your way," Pillay adds.

The new USB modem is accessible free of charge on Cell C's 500MB (R350 per month) and 1GB data contracts (R499 per month). These contracts are available to all existing subscribers, as well as to non Cell C subscribers. For prepaid customers, the device is offered at a cost of approximately R1200.00 per modem.