I promised a review of a Cradlepoint product and so here it is.
I recently had the opportunity to set-up a Cradlepoint MBR1000 Mobile Broadband Router for use on a 46′ Nordhavn in Florida. The owner wanted a wireless network onboard and the ability to print from his laptop from anywhere on the boat. We used a Verizon Wireless USB720 modem which the owner had already been using for some time for connectivity while offshore. I ordered the router from one of the third party vendors listed on the site and it arrived with no problem. After unpacking I followed the simple instructions and in less than a minute the router was pumping out an extremely powerful signal. I set up everything for the owner out here in the Bay Area and he took it back to his boat where he plugged it back in and was online in a matter of minutes.
The interface is clean and easy to use. When I called customer support with a configuration question they were courteous and helpful and quickly walked me through the necessary steps. Some folks may be put off by the price but I don’t think it should deter anyone from buying this product. While I am only reviewing the MBR1000 I don’t think I would hesitate to purchase any of Cradlepoint’s other products. The smaller compact units might prove extremely useful in the field.
