Sprint and Sierra Wireless to Deliver High-Speed Data Connectivity and More with Nation's Smallest Mobile Broadband USB Modem

Compass 597 USB Modem by Sierra Wireless is Small, Speedy, and Offers Simple Set-Up and Installation

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sierra Wireless (NASDAQ:SWIR - TSX:SW) and Sprint (NYSE:S) announced the upcoming launch of the Sierra Wireless Compass(TM) 597, the nation's smallest USB modem for mobile broadband networks. About the size of a pack of gum, the Sierra Wireless Compass 597 USB modem operates on the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network to provide customers convenient high-speed access to email and online applications from their desktops or laptops, keeping them connected and productive.

Smaller and simpler to use than ever before, the Compass 597 USB modem by Sierra Wireless features automatic installation of Sprint SmartView(SM) software and one-touch activation on the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network for both Mac and PC users, making it quick and easy to get up and running. Wherever EV-DO Rev. A network coverage is available, download speeds average between 600 kilobits per second (kbps) and 1.4 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds average 350 to 500 kbps. Users only need a few seconds to send a presentation to a client, download large email files or upload a photo to Facebook or Flickr pages, from anywhere within the coverage area. The Sprint Mobile Broadband Network (inclusive of data roaming) reaches more than 242 million people, 15,325 cities and 1,452 airports, with the vast majority upgraded to EV-DO Rev. A technology. This device is backwards compatible to EV-DO Rev. 0 and 1XRTT technology in areas where EV-DO Rev. A is not yet available.

"Sprint continues to be a leader in the industry in offering wireless data products and services," said Danny Bowman, vice president of customer equipment for Sprint. "With Sprint Mobile Broadband Network coverage reaching more people, square miles, cities and airports than any other network in the country, the Compass 597 brings the freedom of mobility, productivity and instant gratification to consumers and mobile professionals at an attractive price."

In addition to email and Internet access, the Compass 597 USB modem by Sierra Wireless offers GPS support, enabling the use of location search and common navigational software tools on a notebook computer via Sprint SmartView - a capability offered by no other wireless carrier for mobile broadband connection devices. Users can find nearby restaurants, gas stations, banks and more without entering their current location, as the GPS capabilities of the Compass chart your current location automatically. Results are presented on a user's choice of several popular online mapping tools. The Compass 597 also includes a microSD expansion slot for supplemental storage or file transfers and supports memory cards up to 32 GB* so users can carry high-resolution images, large presentations and other necessary documents with them wherever they go. With an integrated antenna and no moving parts, the Compass 597 by Sierra Wireless weighs less than one ounce and measures out at 1.2" x 2.4" x .4" - ideal for life on the go.

"We're pleased to collaborate with Sprint once again to launch our latest USB modem for use on the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network," said Dan Schieler, senior vice president, Worldwide Sales for Sierra Wireless. "With its small size, appealing design, and user-friendly installation and activation features, the Compass 597 has a lot to offer Sprint customers looking for a simple way to stay linked in to their business and personal networks."


The new Compass 597 by Sierra Wireless is expected to be available in Sprint Stores, business sales channels, and online at www.sprint.com later this month for as low as $49.99 with a two-year service agreement and $50 mail-in-rebate. Service plan options include $39.99 for 40 MB a month or $59.99 for unlimited use with a two-year service contract. Customers who travel to Canada and Mexico frequently can take advantage of Sprint's North America Connection Card Plus Plan, which allows Sprint Mobile Broadband customers unlimited data usage everywhere in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico for $109 monthly charge and a one-year contract.**

A full feature spec sheet and high-resolution images can be found at www.sprint.com/presskits. The Compass 597 USB modem will also be featured by Sierra Wireless (Stand #249) at CTIA Wireless 2008, to be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from April 1 to 3.

For more information about the Sierra Wireless Compass 597 USB modem please visit http://www.sierrawireless.com/product/compass_597.aspx. To contact the Sierra Wireless Sales Desk, call +1 (604) 232-1488 or e-mail sales@sierrawireless.com.