Cellular router

Cellular routers (sometimes known as 3G Routers) are routers that provide shared Internet access by incorporating a cellular data modem as WAN interfaces (generally, Ethernet and WiFi).

They can be deployed as a primary WAN link to a location where wired connections are not cost-effective, and can also be used as a secondary or business continuity plan should the primary cabled link fail. Cellular routers range from simple SOHO network oriented devices through rugged industrial units with advanced features.

Types

There are two types:

• Compact : the cellular modem and the router are the same device.
• Modular: one can connect the cellular modem to the router.

Cellular Router Makers

Dovado has introduced a low-cost router called the USB Mobile Broadband Router (UMR), specifically designed to host 3G USB modems from suppliers such as Huawei, Option and Novatel. The UMR offers WLAN and Ethernet connectivity within the home/office and DOVADO offers free firmware upgrades to support the latest USB and Express card modems.

CalAmp Corp. manufactures the Dataradio CiPHR Cellular Router that works with 3G cellular backhaul technologies such as CDMA EV-DO Rev. A or GSM HSDPA, backwards compatible to 2G cellular technologies like 1xRTT or GPRS / EDGE. Designed for public safety use, the unit offers extended temperature range, GPS tracking and I/O capabilities in a ruggedized enclosure.

CradlePoint Technology manufactures cellular routers that turn cellular data connections into Wi-Fi and Ethernet. CradlePoint supports of devices that can connect with 1xRTT, EV-DO, GPRS, EDGE and HSPA connectivity as offered by carriers such as Sprint, AT&T and Verizon Wireless. Known for being innovative, CradlePoint routers showcase a number of unique features such as an integrated battery for true mobility and the first known ExpressCard 34 connection for a router. CradlePoint routers feature the trademarked WiPipe technology that streamlines and improves the user experience by simplifying connections and enhancing security.

Cellular modem manufacturer Sierra Wireless announced the acquisition of CradlePoint, Inc. on April 7, 2008 with the acquisition expected to be completed in July 2008[1].

NexAira Inc manufactures the NexConnect Cellular Router that works with 3G backhaul technologies such as CDMA or GSM and a traditional wired backhaul such as a DSL or Cable. Capable of handling continuous computing, allowing multiple users to share a Wi-Fi Hot Spot, supports VPN pass through, VOIP and media content storage.

Digi International manufactures a variety of 2.5G and 3G routers that can connect to electronics using a variety of communication protocols, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, ZigBee and serial devices.

Proxicast has been manufacturing the LAN-Cell family of "enterprise-grade" cellular routers since 2003. The LAN-Cell integrates a cellular modem, Ethernet switch, Wi-Fi access point, wired Ethernet WAN, firewall, full VPN end-point, and military grade encryption. The LAN-Cell has won several cdmA-List awards and their web site indicates many large customer deployments worldwide.

Nexus iSR manufactures the Nexus Hawk a cellular router with built in VPN, firewall, advanced routing functions, optional built in GPS, and optional built in Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g. In addition to ExpressCard 34 mm and PCMCIA cellular air cards, this router accepts PCMCIA air cards supporting 700 MHz public safety network in the United States National Capital Region (NCR). The Nexus Hawk has 2 PCMCIA card bus slots to support two simultaneous air cards supported with static routes and auto network failover and fail back.

Junxion is a manufacturer of a Wi-Fi router that allows a user to insert a cellular data card for an Internet connection. One of the original cellular router makers, Junxion has been around since 2004. Their website claims over 1000 customers.

WAAV Manufacturer of AirBox line of routers. WAAV, Inc. makes the AirBox X2 that has 2 cellular connections for additional bandwidth. One of the original cellular router manufacturers, WAAV has been around since 2004. Their website claims many prestigious customers.

Kyocera manufactures the KR1 cellular router. The entry level priced KR1 is very popular. It accepts a slide in cellular connection card. The Kyocera KR1 can be found through many online retailers.

Linksys manufactures the WRT54G3G cellular router. It accepts a slide in PCMCIA cellular connection card, a WAN RJ45 port, 4 client RJ45 ports . The Linksys WRT54G3G firmware is based on popular WRT54G/GL design supporting GPL code available on line from Linksys. Open-WRT port is available with open PCMCIA support .

Ericsson manufactures cellular router family W2x. All models have embedded RF HW. Models are W20e(Europe), W20a(America), W21 (worldwide capable), W25 (added Voip and Ipfax). The router software is based on Linux.

Improving data rates

Although advertised at 3.6 Mbit/s or even 7.2 Mbit/s download speeds, cellular routers often suffer from low data rates due to bad reception especially in fringe areas of network coverage and densely populated areas where base station masts are obstructed by buildings, trees etc. Signal strength can be improved by connecting external antennas or amplifiers to the Cellular router or Mobile USB modem.