MTN’s E2010 HSPA “Jabulani” USB Modem

On 13th July, Huawei Technologies handed over “3.5G network technology” to MTN Uganda. We received a test modem — the one that it now popularly referred to as Jabulani, following it’s physical design. This review is based on usage over a 3.5G network.FIRST LOOKS:The modem makes a very good first impression. I had many problems with security around Kampala because the guards would find a ball, that tiny, suspicious.
Modem_Jabulani_Modem_Open Modem_Jabulani_Modem_Open

If you have a slim laptop, the modem will (in some cases) block some other USB port (because it is big), and It will always respt on your desk.I found that a little incoviniencing.
SOFTWARE:
This modem is packaged with MTN Mobile Partner v. 16.0
Compared with previous versions of Mobile partner, it is easier to install, and has more advanced features. With this version, you can load airtime on your card, and make a PC-to-Phone call (you need a microphone), which we made to a non-MTN number, and was successful.
PERFORMANCE:
The performance of this modem heavily depends on the network signal in your location. The average on my computer was 60%. But still, with this kind of signal, I was able to comfortably make very heavy downloads, and uploads, of all formats of data: video, graphics, programs, compressed folders, e.t.c
My downloads, aided by a download accelerator averaged 500kbps , and sometimes hit 600kbps. Such are impressive speeds, although MTN will have data caps to limit bandwidth usage.
Over-all, this is a very impressive product. But you need to be sure that 3G capability is available in your location to enjoy the benefits.


SUMMARY


Key Features

  • HSUPA/HSDPA/UMTS 2100 MHz
  • EDGE/GPRS/GSM 1900/1800/900/850 MHz
  • Equaliser
  • HSUPA Data Service fo up 5.76Mbps
  • HSDPA Data Service of up to 7.2Mbps
  • Data and SMS Service
  • Micro SD Card slot
  • Plug and play

System Requirements
Windows 2000SP4, Windows XP SP2/SP3, Windows Vista SP1/SP2, Windows 7
Mac OS X 10.4, 10.5 and 10.6 with least upgrades
Your computer’s hardware system should meet the recommended requirements for the installed version of the OS.
THE GOOD
Modem is stylish. At least for the World Cup season. We did not find any performance problems during our 3 weeks test period.
THE BAD
Inconvinient size, if you have a slim laptop.