The Novatel MiFi portable broadband hotspot card does the job of a 3G modem and wireless router combined. The MiFi can connect to either an EVDO Rev. A or an HSPA signal. The connection is then shared via a Wi-Fi connection. The Novatel MiFi would connect to the internet via a high-speed mobile phone network such as the EVDO networks operated by Verizon and Sprint Wireless. It can also connect to the AT&T and T-Mobile Wireless via their UMTS/HSDPA networks. According to Novatel, the internal rechargeable battery can last up to 4 hours of continuous use and 40 hours of standby time. Its small size also makes it more attractive as a travel companion. Connecting a MiFi to a notebook would be as simple as creating a Wi-Fi profile in your operating system. This would eliminate the need for any special software that would be needed if using a broadband network card. A distinguishing feature is that it doesn't require a host machine to be connected to it in order to generate a signal. It can simply be put down, turned on, and connected.

The Novatel MiFi cards will become available in early 2009, and distributed by the wireless phone carriers that will provision the broadband access. Novatel estimates the cost around $200, but that's before any added carrier costs.

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