Choosing a Router

Determining which router best suits you needs.

Wifi Routers

First of all, check the compatibility list of any router you are considering to make certain that the aircard or modem you are using is supported.  Here is a overview of them to help select the one that is right for you.

The Cradlepoint CTR350 is the entry level router, it has one RJ45 ethernet port that can operate as a WAN (incoming) or LAN (outgoing). The CTR350 is very small and accepts only USB aircards/modems. It will support up to 16 Wifi connections, and has a range between 40-100 feet, depending on surroundings and environmental factors

The CTR500 will accept one USB and one Express card modem. It has a selectable RJ45 that can be used for WAN (incoming internet) or LAN (outgoing to a desktop or other wired client), a signal strength indicator for the aircard, and a switch to turn the WiFi off when not in use.  It supports 16 connections and also has a port for an optional external antenna which can increase WiFi range by about 35%. 

The Cradlepoint PHS300 has an internal battery that will operate the router for 2 hours or so while not plugged in. Great for someone that needs connectivity for short periods whilst away from a power source, or someone that needs to maintain connectivity moving between locations.  For use in a vehicle with frequent starts and stops, this router smooths out the reboots as the vehicle engine is started.   It is strictly a USB in and WiFi out device, there is no RJ45 ethernet port.

All of the above routers are very small, almost pocket size. 

The MBR1000 is the top of the line N band (range on N band up to 2000 feet) and has 4 dedicated LAN (outgoing) and one dedicated WAN (incoming) ethernet ports. It has 2 USB inputs and also accepts Express cards. Due to the external antenna array we see G band Wifi range from 60 to 200 ft. It also has the WiFi switch, and it powers natively from 12 volts, which makes it very popular with the RV crowd.  Firmware updates provide a type of load balancing between multiple aircards, it won't increase speed by having multiple aircards, but it will increase capacity.  

The MBR1100 is the latest N band router from Cradlepoint, in addition to the features of the MBR1000 it will support more 4G modems and VPN tunnels.  This is pretty specialized and not necessary for most consumer applications. 

All of the MBR series routers are a larger format, just over an inch thick, but still very portable.  Not pocket size by any means, but easily fits into a laptop bag.


Non-Wifi Routers

The MBR800 shares all the features of the MBR1000 but with no Wifi capability.  It is ideal for a small office of desktops or integrating with an existing Wifi network.   An existing WiFi router can operate on one of the LAN connections from the MBR800. 

The CBA250 is an 'adapter', the purpose is to convert a cellular aircard/modem signal to an ethernet capable system.   It allows full pass through of IP address and other functions.   It is pretty specialized for certain applications.  

Please don't hesitate to call us 877-642-9168 or click contact us if you need additional help making your selection.

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