WiMAX provider Clearwire has made available its long-awaited PC card in its retail stores and online in almost all of its markets, according to Pali Research. Analyst Walter Piecyk said the launch should be perceived positively since it increases Clearwire's target market. PC Card can be used in most laptops versus a modem's size and power requirement that limit mobility.
"The PC card launch will be a critical test for Clearwire on the market demand for broadband wireless services in the face of slowing growth in cable modems and DSL lines as well as the recent cancellation of muni-WiFi projects," noted Piecyk.
Clearwire is charging $80 for the PC card, which includes a $75 mail-in rebate and two-year contract. Clearwire's PC card rate plan is $60 per month for downlink speeds of up to 1.5 Mbps.
It will be interesting to see how Clearwire matches up to EV-DO Rev. A service from Verizon and Sprint.
For more about Clearwire's PC card:
- read this blog post from Pali Research
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