Does anyone know of a current set of Routerboard + RouterOS Version + Cell Modem that will work with the Verizon network?

Meaning: If I want to buy h/w today to build a new box with a RouterBoard and a cell modem that works with Verizon, what can RB and cell modem can I buy?

My current working solution of RB433UAH or RB411U + v3.30 + UM175 is no longer viable because Verizon has stopped selling the UM175. And my Verizon rep has all but said that I cannot buy the UM175 on the open market and have Verizon activate it, which I find more than a little odd.

Their current USB modem, the Novatel USB760, does not work on the RB433UAH or RB411U under v3.30 or v4.5. This may work in the future under v4.7, but does not work today.

So, does anyone have a working Verizon setup that can be replicated with h/w that is available for sale today?

Or is my Verizon rep being, um, less than forthcoming about buying the UM175 from someone other than him?

Any insight would be appreciated.

Thanks

jw

Or is my Verizon rep being, um, less than forthcoming about buying the UM175 from someone other than him?

I always recommend buying your equipment from ebay. You stay out of 2yr contracts and basically end up paying the same as you would if you had gotten it "subsidized" through Verizon. Your agent is straight up lying to you. The only way a Verizon agent wouldn't activate your card is if it did not have a clean ESN. Without a contract, your agent gets nothing. He has every reason to tell you this.

Get your UM175s off ebay from now on and activate them through standard customer service channels. You'll be contract-free and continue to be able to implement your desired solution.

Did I mention that I was pretty new to 3G?

Thanks very much for your advice.

I checked on e-bay and there are any number of outfits selling this device, and others, that will work on the Verizon network and are on the RouterOS supported hardware list. At least one seller provides detailed instructions on how to either do an ESD swap with an existing service or to start new service with Verizon.

You learn something new every day. If you work at it.

Regards,

jw

Just make sure whatever you buy is Verizon branded. If you buy alot of used don't be surprised to get some equipment that isn't clear to be reactivated due to outstanding bills or being reported stolen. Just file a dispute with paypal and keep on going. Most of the equipment will be fine.

Activating with Verizon is easy. If you already have an account just call in to a rep, tell them you want to add another dataplan to your account, they will ask for the ESN and such, and then you'll be good to go.