New Sierra Wireless Embedded Module Connects Devices to Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband Network


Sierra Wireless AirPrime(TM) Embedded Module Provides 4G LTE Mobile Broadband Connections for Laptops and Networking Gear

LAS VEGAS and BASKING RIDGE, N.J. -- From the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Sierra Wireless today announced the availability of the AirPrime(TM) MC7750 embedded wireless module, which is designed to connect to the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network and can be integrated into a variety of devices, including routers, netbooks, notebooks and tablet computers. The Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC7750 embedded module is integrated into consumer and enterprise router platforms being demonstrated in the Verizon Wireless booth this week at CES, and Sierra Wireless already has several design wins for the module with multiple device manufacturers.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.

In addition to providing a connection to the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network, the Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC7750 embedded module also supports Verizon Wireless' existing 2G and 3G services to allow roaming outside of 4G LTE coverage areas, providing manufacturers with the assurance that their products can connect anywhere Verizon Wireless offers data service. Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC Series modules for LTE networks also support Qualcomm's Gobi(TM) application programming interface (API). This interface helps streamline integration efforts, spur application development among third-party developers, and delivers greater flexibility to device manufacturers.

Sierra Wireless has extensive experience collaborating with device manufacturers to integrate high-speed mobile broadband connectivity and is well versed in the design challenges involved, including antenna design and placement; power consumption and thermal management; and optimization of the interface between the wireless module and its host device. Sierra Wireless professional services teams are available to assist customers throughout the integration process with device design and testing, helping them to deliver products to market on schedule and within budget.

The development of the Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC7750 embedded module is a result of collaboration fostered at Verizon Wireless' LTE Innovation Center. The LTE Innovation Center, established in 2008, provides an environment for diverse companies to work together to develop innovative products that leverage 4G LTE technology.

Commercial shipments of the AirPrime MC7750 are scheduled to begin within the first quarter of 2011. Products with the module integrated will be highlighted from Jan. 6-9 in Verizon Wireless' booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center). For more information about the LTE Innovation Center and Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte. For more information about Verizon Wireless at CES, visit www.verizonwireless.com/ces or follow the company on Twitter at http://twitter.com/verizonwireless.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's fastest and most advanced 4G network and largest and most reliable 3G network, and serves more than 93 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 80,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, Nasdaq: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About Sierra Wireless

Sierra Wireless (Nasdaq: SWIR - TSX: SW) offers industry-leading mobile computing and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications products and solutions that connect people, devices, and applications over cellular networks. Wireless service providers, equipment manufacturers, enterprises and government organizations around the world depend on us for reliable wireless technology. We offer 2G, 3G and 4G wireless modems, routers and gateways as well as a comprehensive suite of software, tools, and services that ensure our customers can successfully bring wireless applications to market. For more information about Sierra Wireless, visit www.sierrawireless.com.

"AirPrime" is a trademark of Sierra Wireless. Other product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

CONTACT: Debra Lewis, Verizon Wireless, +1-908-559-7512, Debra.Lewis@verizonwireless.com; Sharlene Myers, Sierra Wireless, +1-604-232-1445, smyers@sierrawireless.com

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