Set it and forget it. That’s the true value of an ExpressCard broadband modem. Ideally you just drop one into your laptop, leave it there, and enjoy high-speed wireless access wherever you can pick up a cell signal. If that’s the type of simplicity you’re looking for, the Sierra Wireless AirCard 597E ($329.99; $129.99 and up with contract) is the best way to connect to Sprint ‘s EV-DO Rev A nationwide wireless network.

The AirCard 597E fits into laptops via an ExpressCard/34 slot, found on such notebooks as the Apple MacBook Pro and the Dell Vostro 1310. The chunk that sticks out of your laptop is about as long as your pinky, twice as long as the equivalent part on the competing Novatel Merlin EX720. There’s no flip-up antenna, but there are two small LEDs that show power and signal information.

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