If you're trying to use a Sierra AirCard 597E on OS X 10.5 Leopard via the bundled Sierra Wireless Watcher Lite software, then you're probably frustrated like me.

Since my original review, Sierra did release a new version 1.1.3 of the beleaguered PowerPC binary (no it's not Universal/Intel-native). While the new version starts less slowly than 1.1.1, it still mysteriously crashes, sometimes taking the connection with it.

The fix? Simply use Apple's built-in modem dialer, leaving Watcher Lite dormant unless its device provisioning or activation functions are required.

Step 1: In the Network Preferences Panel, check "Show modem status in menu bar"

Step 2: Enjoy the nicely integrated, crash-free EV-DO connectivity

Sierra Wireless Watcher 1.1.1 hangs in Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard,

Despite Sierra Wireless' knowledge-base statement that AirCard 597E can be used with Leopard:

Yes. Aircard 597E support TRU-Install with Mac OS 10.5 Leopard. When the Aircard 597E is inserted, it will show the following window. Please double-click on SierraWirelessWactherlite.mpkg to begin the installation.

My AirCard does not provide it's own software, even after clearing all the previously-installed Sierra software (kernal extensions & app) from the system.

Read the rest of this entry

How does Sprint's Mobile Broadband service perform in Austin? Is it worth a twenty-four month commitment totaling over $1500?

In an effort to answer this question, here's a summary of my experiences & observations during this first month of going mobile.

Read the rest of this entry

After years of working out of an office & local cafes with WiFi, I've been jonesing for the ability to do my web work anywhere; especially under a shady tree in the park. I love loving my work. So, after comparing the only cellular broadband options available here in Austin TX (just two: Verizon & Sprint), I just picked up a cellular broadband internet card & plan with Sprint.

Here's my initial speed report using SpeakEasy's Speed Test...

Read the rest of this entry