Option iCON 505 3G modem

Option offers two versions of their 505 line of USB 3G modems, the Option iCON 505 3G modem and the Option iCON 505M 3G modem with a built-in micro-SD memory card reader.

In this review we take a look at how the Option iCON 505 performs with Diafaan SMS Server on the 64-bits version of Windows 7.

Option iCON 505 specifications
Connection USB 2.0
GSM Frequency bands 850, 900, 1800, 1900
UMTS Frequency bands 900/2100
Network protocols GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, HSUPA, HSDPA
Option iCON 505

Option iCON 505

Installation

when the iCON 505 is connected for the first time, the modem installs as a USB drive with on-board device drivers and connection management software. The drivers for the USB modem are automatically installed from this USB drive and the installation is done without a hitch.

After the drivers are installed, the Option iCON 505 uses two virtual serial ports that are automatically found with the Search button in the GSM Modem Gateway setup wizard of Diafaan SMS Server. Although the first COM port is flagged as 'Diagnostics' and the second as 'Application', both ports appear to work equally well in Diafaan SMS Server.

Daily operation

The iCON 505 supports all SMS options, including delivery reports and full modem reboot capabilities in case something goes wrong. I found no problems in a couple of days of moderate use.

SMS send speed

Network Vodafone
Signal quality Low
Time to send 500 messages of 160 characters, delivery confirmation enabled. All messages sent to the same number (concurrent send and receive) 34 minutes 51 seconds

Conclusion

If you look for a USB 3G modem to use with Diafaan SMS Server, the Option iCON 505 is an excellent choice. The modem installs easily and works as intended.