KPC680 or V740 for CTR-500?

JGriggs · Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2008 8:53 pm Post subject: KPC680 or V740 for CTR-500?

I was looking at getting a CTR-500.
(From 3G store, even though they are a few $ more... Mostly in thanks of this forum.)

Originally, I was cruising E-Bay for a USB rev A modem, but figured out that the Expresscard modems may be a better fit, as most of the modem would be internal to the CTR and reduce its footprint. (I hadn't considered this, as I do not have a notebook with an Expresscard slot yet.)

So it looks like the shopping list is:
- CTR-500
- USB to ExpressCard adapter (So I can activate the modem)
- Expresscard modem

As the title reflects, I'm interested in differences in the two mentioned rev A modems for Verizon.
Does one have a better record of working with the CTR-500?
Does one have a better record working with a USB to ExpressCard adapter? (Since that is my only actication route.)
Which one has a more robust antenna port (as I will most likely need to use an antenna)?
Does either work better for the CTR-500 signal test mode?

Thanks,
Jon

Alex · Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2008 8:21 am Post subject:

Jon,

having sold thousands of these things, i would disagree that the expresscard is a better choice in your case.

if you and i were on the phone, i'd tell you that my recommendation would be to stick with USB modem.

reasons i would give are:

-- not being inserted into body of router means its also not exposed to RF noise within router (or laptop if you had one)

-- USB modem can be operated on end of a USB cable, allowing more flexibility when positioning for best signal

-- (in your case) USB options are cheaper, and since it will always be attached to a router or a desktop, it makes no sense to pay more for v740, and more again for USB to expresscard adapter.

-- (obviously) USB works with many more computers. everything has USB. even a MacBook Air.

-- In your case, my recommendation would be the UM150, mostly because i love the signal lights and robusy RF/antenna jack, but also because you made "footprint" a concern, and of all the Verizon USB options the UM150 would offer smallest footprint when it is rotated upwards, as in this photo (of a UM150 with PHS300):