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Sierra Wireless first to support Telstra's dual-channel HSPA+ network with new USB modem and expanded wireless module lineup

Telstra Ultimate(TM) USB Modem by Sierra Wireless now available in Australia; new Sierra Wireless AirPrime(TM) HSPA+ embedded wireless modules introduced to support device manufacturers
VANCOUVER, Aug. 30 /CNW/ - Sierra Wireless (NASDAQ: SWIR; TSX: SW) today announced that it is supporting the launch of Telstra's first-in-the-world dual-channel HSPA+ network in Australia with some of the fastest modems the company has ever produced. The Sierra Wireless AirCard(R) 312U wireless USB modem, first demonstrated at Mobile World Congress in February, is now commercially available in Australia, marketed as the Telstra Ultimate(TM) USB modem. With it, Australians working at client locations, at airports, or on their commute home can access the Internet and online applications at speeds typically reserved for office environments.

Dual-channel HSPA+ doubles the speeds of current HSPA+ networks from a peak downlink of 21 megabits per second (Mbps) to 42 Mbps, at the same time improving network efficiency and providing a better experience for customers with more consistent network performance. Customers using a Telstra Ultimate USB modem in enabled coverage areas will experience real-world download speeds up to 20 Mbps.

"The new speeds have the potential to increase how and where our small and large business customers work - boosting productivity in the process," said Mike Wright, Executive Director, Telstra Networks & Access Technologies. "Our customers have told us that they want higher speed mobile broadband so they can work more flexibly outside of the office and we are delighted to offer them these new speeds."

In addition to announcing the commercial launch of the AirCard 312U, Sierra Wireless has introduced the AirPrime MC8801, as well as the AirPrime MC8704 and MC8705 intelligent embedded modules for HSPA+ networks, to support manufacturers incorporating wireless connectivity into a variety of devices, including notebook, netbook, and tablet computers; connected consumer electronics products like personal navigation devices; and home or enterprise-class routers.
"Once again, Telstra is leading the world in rolling out the latest HSPA+ technology, and we're thrilled to be the first to provide customers in Australia with products that enable them to take full advantage of the network's capabilities," said Jin Pak, Vice President of Sales, Asia Pacific, for Sierra Wireless. "Being first with wireless USB modems benefits our embedded customers as well. Manufacturers looking to provide the capabilities of the new AirCard 312U inside their devices can be confident that Sierra Wireless embedded modules deliver a tested, reliable solution for the best possible performance."

The Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC8801 intelligent embedded module is designed to support HSPA+ Dual Channel networks and peak network downlink speeds of 42 Mbps. To provide a more cost-effective alternative for manufacturers that don't require the top speed, the new AirPrime MC8704 and MC8705 offer HSPA+ single channel support, with peak network downlink speed of 21 Mbps. The AirPrime MC8704 offers voice calling capability, while the MC8705 is targeted for data-centric devices that do not require voice support.

Samples of the AirPrime MC8801 and MC8705 are now available to customers for testing, with commercial shipments expected in the fourth quarter of this year. Samples of the AirPrime MC8704 are expected to be available early in 2011. With a substantial track record of working with network operators and manufacturing customers to integrate new wireless technologies quickly and reliably, Sierra Wireless offers the experience and expertise to simplify wireless integration and optimize time-to-market.