Sprint Mobile Broadband USB Modem by Novatel Wireless
Ovation™ U727
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Ovation U727 USB Modem by Novatel Wireless?
A: The Ovation U727 is Novatel Wireless’ next generation USB modem, which offers users a 2-
in-1 USB Modem and memory storage device in a more compact hardware design making it
one of the smallest form factors available in the U.S.
Q: What networks does the Ovation U727 operate on?
A: The Ovation U727 operates on Sprint’s nationwide VisionSM (CDMA 1x) and Mobile
BroadbandSM (CDMA 1xEV-DO Rev 0 and Rev A) network.
Q: Does the flip-up antenna need to be extended in order to meet performance
expectations?
A: Yes. This “loop” antenna design is meant to be extended in order to perform a maximum
levels when the device is in use.
Q: Which Operating Systems are supported for use with the Novatel Wireless Ovation
U727?
A: Microsoft Windows Vista/XP/2000; Macintosh OS X version 10.4.6 or higher; and Linux. The
following Operating Systems are not supported: Palm and Pocket PC (Windows Mobile CE).
Q: Does the Ovation U727 support voice calls, fax and/or text messaging?
A: No. Voice calls, fax and text messaging are not supported.
Q: Which applications are well suited for using with the Ovation U727 and the improved
upload speeds?
A:
Consumer
Business
Applications
Email – Send large files faster
Internet/Intranet Access
Video Conferencing and Surveillance
Real-time Media Streaming
Online Gaming
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Corporate Server (using VPN) Access
Online Field Service Systems
Healthcare/Insurance, sending images
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Q: How do I identify a Type-A USB Modem port?
A: The Ovation U727 is designed for common Type A USB form factor. Type A USB ports found
on virtually all computers (desktops, notebooks, tablet PCs etc) and often times is identified
with a USB symbol that resembles a cactus
. Not to be confused with the smaller firewire
port, whose symbol represents a Y . Smaller USB ports, called Type B ports are
commonly found on some PDAs and mobile phones and the Ovation U727 will not fit into
them.
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Social Security or Tax ID number
Driver's license number
Electronic Serial Number (ESN) of the device
Sprint Customer Solutions will provide you with information that you should write down and
keep handy since you will need it to complete the activation.
Q: Where can I get the latest version of the Sprint Mobile Broadband software for my
Novatel Wireless Ovation U727?
drop down list and then click on the Submit button. Locate the latest version of the Sprint
Mobile Broadband software for the Novatel Wireless Ovation U727 and then click on the
corresponding Download link.
Q: Will Ovation U727 work with the same version of Sprint Connection ManagerSM
installed for MerlinTM S620 or other devices?
A: No. You must uninstall the old version of Sprint Connection Manager and install the latest
version of Sprint Mobile Broadband. Sprint Mobile Broadband recognizes all other Sprint
Novatel Wireless EVDO devices (i.e. MerlinTM S620, S720, EX720 and Ovation U720). To
check the version number, go to the “About Sprint Mobile Broadband” section of the software
Q: What is “Built-in GPS Receiver” capability that is stated on the packaging of the
Ovation U727 and can I use this capability now?
A: The GPS feature is now available with the latest version of Sprint Mobile Broadband, allowing
access to “locate and search” capabilities such as the nearest bank, restaurant, gas station,
etc. In order to use the GPS feature you must launch the Sprint Mobile Broadband software.
Q: Is the GPS feature compatible with my navigation software?
In order to use applications such as Microsoft “Street and Trips”, you must first find which
GPS comport the device is using and configure your application to use the same port as the
GPS Receiver for your device on Sprint Mobile Broadband.
To determine which port your device is using: Open Sprint Mobile Broadband and enable
Sprint Location Services from the main Menu. Go to Menu>Settings>Sprint Location
Services. Check the Display GPS Receiver option. The GPS Receiver is now visible on the
main Sprint Mobile Broadband interface. Expand the GPS Receiver portion of the interface by
ticking the [+] plus sign. The COM port information for your device is displayed.
Q: Do you offer an “auto-connect” feature for the Ovation U727?
A: Yes, the Connection Manager feature “NDIS” improves interface with Windows for increased
battery life, the ability to auto connect when the device is inserted, and a faster connection
after Windows “Resumes” from “Standby” or “Hibernate” states.
Q: What do the LED lights on the Novatel Wireless Ovation U727 indicate?
A: The LED lights are visual indicators of the current status of the Ovation U727.
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Solid green – The device is powered, but it is not connected.
Blinking green – The device is connecting and/or is connected to the network.
Solid red – No service found (searching for service)
Solid orange – An error has occured. Reset the device. If this does not resolve the
issue, it must be replaced.
Q: Does the Ovation U727 work with the Mac OS X native Network/Internet Connect
software?
A. Yes. The Ovation U727 automatically is recognized by the Mac system after you have
installed the drivers, activated, and configured your device. Follow the instructions provided
on the Mac Quick Start Guide that is located on the Installation CD and may also be found
online.
Q. Do I need to use the notebook clip holder with the USB extension cable?
A. Yes. The accessory pair must be used as a unit in order to comply with FCC regulations.
Q. I tried to save files to the Ovation U727 and nothing happens.
A. In order to utilize the memory storage feature, a microSD card is required. The microSD cards
are sold separately and the device can accommodate memory up to 4GB. The User Guide and
the Quick Start Guide provide details on how to use a microSD card.
Q. Does the Ovation U727 also function as a Wi-Fi device?
A. No. The Ovation U727 is a broadband wireless modem that leverages the Sprint Mobile
Broadband network, no hot-spots necessary.
Q: How do I remove a microSD from the device?
A. The comprehensive Quick Start Guide booklet explains in detail how to remove the device.
Quite simply, a lanyard was included in the package contents of the device. This lanyard includes
a safety removable clip that also functions as a tool to eject the microSD card from the microSD
slot.
1. Separate the clip (you do not have to remove the lanyard from the device to perform this
task)
2. Using the retriever tool, gently press in and release the microSD card, which should then
pop out half way.
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