Verizon Wireless USB551L User manual

USER
MANUAL
USB551L MODEM

©2010 Verizon Wireless, Inc. All rights reserved. The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice and
should not be construed as a commitment by Verizon Wireless, Inc.
Patents and Licenses
Visit www.novatelwireless.com/patents for a complete list of all Novatel Wireless patents.
Software License
Proprietary Rights Provisions:
The software drivers provided with this product are copyrighted by Novatel Wireless and/or Novatel Wireless’ suppliers.
Although copyrighted, the software drivers are unpublished and embody valuable trade secrets proprietary to Novatel
Wireless and/or Novatel Wireless’ suppliers. The disassembly, decompilation, and/or Reverse Engineering of the software
drivers for any purpose is strictly prohibited by international law. The copying of the software drivers, except for a reasonable
number of back-up copies is strictly prohibited by international law. It is forbidden by international law to provide access
to the software drivers to any person for any purpose other than processing the internal data for the intended use of the
software drivers.
U.S. Government Restricted Rights Clause:
The software drivers are classied as “Commercial Computing device Software” and the U.S. Government is acquiring only
“Restricted Rights” in the software drivers and their Documentation.
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It is forbidden by US law to export, license or otherwise transfer the software drivers or Derivative Works to any country where
such transfer is prohibited by the United States Export Administration Act, or any successor legislation, or in violation of the
laws of any other country.
Trademarks and Service Marks
Verizon Wireless is a trademark of Verizon Wireless, Inc., and the other trademarks, logos, and service marks (collectively the
“Trademarks”) used in this user manual are the property of Verizon Wireless or their respective owners. Nothing contained in
this user manual should be construed as granting by implication, estoppel, or otherwise, a license or right of use of Verizon
Wireless or any other Trademark displayed in this user manual without the written permission of Verizon Wireless or its
respective owners.
• Novatel Wireless, and the Novatel Wireless logo are trademarks of Novatel Wireless, Inc.
• VZAccess® Manager is a registered trademark of Verizon Wireless.
• Microsoft® and Windows® are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft® Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
• Apple® and Mac® are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
• LTE™ is a trademark of ETSI.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned in this user manual may be the trademarks of their respective
owners.
FCC ID: PKRNVWMC551
IC ID: 3229B-MC551
PN: 90026297_R1_DraftM_08Nov2010
Please visit www.verizonwireless.com for the latest information about your device.

Contents
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Package Contents ....................................................................... 2
System Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Components ................................................................................ 3
LED States. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Caring for Your Device ....................................................................... 5
Using the USB551L Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Using the Device for the First Time ........................................................... 7
Install the 4G SIM Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Install VZAccess® Manager Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Properly Insert the Device in Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Set Up VZAccess® Manager Software ....................................................11
Activate Your Device ....................................................................11
Properly Remove the Device from Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Using the Device After Setup is Complete ...................................................13
Connect To and Disconnect From the Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Lanyard Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
USB Modem Extension Cable Accessory .................................................15
Accessing the User Guides ..................................................................16
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Common Problems and Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Technical Support ..........................................................................20
Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Data Technical Support .................................................................20
Product Specications and Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Product Specications ......................................................................22
General ................................................................................22
Technology/Bands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Environmental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Regulatory Statements .....................................................................23
Federal Communications Commission Notice (FCC – United States) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
RF Exposure/Specic Absorption Rate (SAR) Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Single Modular Approval Host Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Wireless Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Limited Warranty and Liability ..............................................................26
Safety Hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Overview
Components
Caring for Your Device
Getting Started
1

2
Overview
Congratulations on purchasing the Verizon Wireless USB551L Modem for 4G Mobile Broadband
service!
Before installing the VZAccess Manager software and drivers, review this manual, which outlines the
features of the USB551L Modem hardware.
This 4G USB modem enables you to connect at high speeds to the Internet, your corporate Intranet,
and your email while you’re away from the oce.
Package Contents
The Verizon Wireless USB551L Modem package includes:
•Verizon Wireless USB551L Modem
•VZAccess® Manager software (included on the installation CD)
•USB551L User Guide (included on the installation CD)
•VZAccess Manager Software User Guide (included on the installation CD)
•Quick Reference Guide
•Lanyard [See Lanyard Accessory on page 14.]
•USB Modem Extension Cable [See USB Modem Extension Cable Accessory on page 15.]
System Requirements
•Supported operating system
•Windows® 7, Vista, XP (SP2 or higher)
•Mac OS® X v10.4 or higher
•USB port: Type A, v1.1 supported; v2.0 high speed recommended
•Hard drive: 100 MB free hard disk space
•Memory (RAM): 128 MB
•CD-ROM drive (for installation)
•Internet browser software: e.g., Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher, Firefox, Safari,
Opera, Chrome

3
Components
 LED indicator: This indicates the device is connected to 3G or 4G Mobile Broadband
networks; it also indicates when the device has an error or has no service available. See LED
States on page 4.
 USB connector: This connects to your computer through a type A USB port. The hinge
design makes it easier to connect to computers.
 Accessory hook: This attaches to the lanyard accessory (included in the box) for portability.
See Lanyard Accessory on page 14.
 Back panel (removable): This covers the 4G SIM card slot. Insert a ngernail into the divot
closest to the USB connector to remove the back panel.
 4G SIM card slot: Insert the 4G SIM card into the spring-loaded SIM card slot. See Install the
4G SIM Card on page 8.

4
LED States
The LED indicates the modem status.
LED Color Status Description
No Light The device is powered o or otherwise is not getting power.
Green Solid
Slow
blinking
Intermittent
blinking
The modem is powered on but is not transmitting or receiving
data.
The modem is searching for a 3G data network.
The modem is transmitting or receiving data on a 3G data
network; the blink rate is proportional to the data speed.
Blue Solid
Slow
blinking
Intermittent
blinking
The modem is powered on but is not transmitting or receiving
data.
The modem is searching for a 4G data network.
The modem is transmitting or receiving data on a 4G data
network; the blink rate is proportional to the data speed.
Red Solid Service error; no service is available.
Yellow Solid Error; reinsert the modem.

5
Caring for Your Device
Like any electronic device, the modem must be handled with care to ensure reliable operation.
Verizon Wireless recommends the following guidelines:
•Protect the device from liquids, dust, and excessive temperatures.
•Do not apply adhesive labels to the device; they might cause the device to overheat or alter
antenna performance.
•The USB connector should plug easily into your computer’s standard type A USB port.
Forcing the device into a port might damage the connector.
•Remove the device from your computer before transporting it.
•Store the device in a safe place when not in use.

Using the Device for the First Time
Using the Device After Setup is Complete
Accessories
Accessing the User Guides
Using the USB551L Modem
2

7
Using the Device for the First Time
IMPORTANT Do not connect the device to a USB hub, as it might not provide sufficient
power.
See the Quick Reference Guide included in the box and the VZAccess® Manager Software User
Guide for additional information about installing the VZAccess software.
To get started, follow these steps.
 Conrm your computer meets the minimum system requirements. See System
Requirements on page 2.
 Insert the 4G SIM Card. See Install the 4G SIM Card on page 8.
 Install the VZAccess Manager software. See Install VZAccess® Manager Software on page 9.
 Connect the device to your computer. See Properly Insert the Device in Your Computer on
page 10.
 Set up the VZAccess Manager software. See Set Up VZAccess® Manager Software on page 11.
 Activate the USB551L Modem. See Activate Your Device on page 11.
IMPORTANT The device requires an activated account with Verizon Wireless to function.
Activation must be performed within a Verizon Wireless coverage area. VZAccess Manager
must be installed prior to activation.

8
Install the 4G SIM Card
If you have not already done so, please follow these instructions to install your new 4G SIM Card.
To open the case and install the 4G SIM Card
 Open the protective cover. Look for a small divot at the end of the back panel closest to the
USB connector, into which you can insert a ngernail.
 Insert the 4G SIM Card with the contact points (typically gold-colored) facing toward the
device. Position the card with the notched corner as circled below and slide the card into the
slot.
 Gently push the 4G SIM Card forward until the spring catches and the card remains securely
in the slot.
 Replace the back panel on the device.
The SIM Card must remain in the wireless device when in use.
NOTE Should your SIM Card be lost or damaged, visit verizonwireless.com/myverizon to order
a replacement SIM Card. You can also call 1-800-922-0204 to speak with a Customer Service
Representative. For toll-free support outside of the U.S. call [phone] for 24/7 global
support.
For additional information about 4G SIM Cards, visit verizonwireless.com/4GSIM.
A Subscriber Identity Module (SIM Card) is a “smartcard” that houses personal information, such as
your mobile phone number, calling plan, account information, and content, such as contacts, text
messages, and call history.
The Verizon Wireless 4G SIM Card is compatible with any Verizon Wireless 4G certied device.
You can move the 4G SIM Card from one device to another and your wireless service will work
seamlessly as long as you have a compatible device and service plan. To see which devices are
compatible with the Verizon Wireless 4G SIM Card, visit verizonwireless.com/certifieddevice.

9
Install VZAccess® Manager Software
Getting started with your new wireless device is simple. All you have to do is insert the VZAccess
Manager CD in your computer’s CD-ROM drive. The Device Detection Wizard guides you through
the installation process and helps you set up your user preferences.
IMPORTANT Installation must be performed within a 4G Mobile Broadband and/or Mobile
Broadband coverage area.
Install VZAccess Manager software (Windows)
 Turn on your computer and close all programs.
 Insert the VZAccess Manager CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive and choose the
Install VZAccess Manager option.
 Follow the on-screen instructions. For more information about installing VZAccess Manager,
please consult the VZAccess Manager user guide.
 Insert the USB551L Modem into your computer’s USB port when prompted.
 When installation is complete, click Finish to open VZAccess Manager automatically.
Tip! The VZAccess Manager Desktop shortcut icon is a convenient way to open the software. If the
installation program gives you the option to install a shortcut icon on the Desktop, click Yes.
Install VZAccess Manager software (Mac OS X)
 Turn on your computer and close all applications.
 Insert the VZAccess Manager CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive and choose the
Install VZAccess Manager option.
 Follow the on-screen instructions. For more information about installing VZAccess Manager,
please consult the VZAccess Manager user guide.
 Insert the USB551L Modem into your computer’s USB port when prompted.
 When installation is complete, click Finish to open VZAccess Manager automatically.
Tip! The VZAccess Manager Dock icon is a convenient way to open the software. If the installation
program gives you the option to install an icon in the Dock, click Yes.

10
Properly Insert the Device in Your Computer
To properly insert the device
 Use your ngernail to gently ip open the USB connector on your wireless device to a
45-degree angle. Be sure to avoid over-extending the USB connector past its resistance
point. Avoid opening the USB connector with metal objects as this might damage the pins.
 Hold the device along the side edges and gently insert the device into your computer’s USB
port. The USB551L Modem should t easily into the port. Do not force the device into the
port as this might damage both the device and the port.
If your computer has a sideways or inverted USB port, you can use the cable accessory to
connect the device. See Lanyard Accessory on page 14.
NOTE If you are having difficulty inserting the device into your computer’s USB port, verify that you are
inserting the device in the correct orientation and that you are using a Type A USB port.

11
Set Up VZAccess® Manager Software
After the installer program is done, the software needs to detect your device and congure it. Setup
and conguration details are included in the VZAccess Manager user guide.
Activate Your Device
IMPORTANT The USB551L Modem requires an activated account with Verizon Wireless in
order to function.
The modem can be activated three ways:
•in a Verizon Wireless store
•by contacting Verizon Wireless Telesales
•self-activation through the Verizon Wireless activation website (as part of setting up the
software; the following message appears the rst time you activate your device)

12
Properly Remove the Device from Your Computer
IMPORTANT Be sure to disconnect from the network and quit VZAccess Manager before
you remove the device from your computer. Disconnecting from the network and quitting the
software avoids potential problems such as automatic shutdown or screen freezing.
Windows
The USB551L Modem’s USB technology allows you to safely remove the device at any time when
you are not connected to the network.
 End your Mobile Broadband session by selecting Disconnect from VZAccess Manager.
 Exit VZAccess Manager to ensure the USB551L Modem is powered o.
 Gently grip the USB551L Modem on both sides and pull straight out to avoid damaging the
USB connectors.
Mac OS X
 End your Mobile Broadband session by selecting Disconnect from VZAccess Manager.
 Exit VZAccess Manager to ensure the USB551L Modem is powered o.
 Click the eject icon to the right of the USB551L Modem icon in the left column of the Finder
window to eject the device.
 Gently grip the USB551L Modem on both sides and pull straight out to avoid damaging the
USB connectors.

13
Using the Device After Setup is Complete
The following steps occur as you use the device on a regular basis.
Open the USB connector
 Use your ngernail to gently ip open the USB Connector on your wireless device to a
45-degree angle. Be sure to avoid over-extending the USB Connector past its resistance point.
Avoid opening the USB connector with metal objects as this might damage the pins.
Insert the device
 On most computers, insert the USB551L Modem with the label facing up. Some computers
might orient the USB port so the device label faces down or sideways. See To properly insert
the device on page 10.
The USB551L Modem is powered on as soon as you insert it in your computer’s USB port.
Although the modem is powered on, it does not automatically connect to the Internet.
The device LED indicator lights up.
If sound eects are enabled, the computer might beep.
Connect To and Disconnect From the Network
 Open the VZAccess Manager software.
The connection manager opens.
 To connect to the network, click Connect.
 To disconnect from the network, click Disconnect.

14
Accessories
Lanyard Accessory
A lanyard is included with the USB551L Modem. It provides convenient portability while on the go.
IMPORTANT Do not wear the lanyard and the USB551L Modem around rotating machinery or
during sleep. An emergency release clip is constructed in the design; however, you can also cut
through the material.
To affix the lanyard to the device
 Locate the accessory hook on the device.
 Pinch the looped thread on the lanyard and insert the thread into the accessory hook hole
until it exits through the other side.
 Push the plastic end of the lanyard through the looped thread, and then pull to tighten.

15
USB Modem Extension Cable Accessory
An extension cable is included to optimize the performance of your USB551L Modem. This
cable increases the distance between the USB modem and computer, reducing possible
interference from the computer. If the USB connector on your laptop is inverted and the
hinge does not open properly, the cable can be used to allow proper functionality.
How to use the extension cable:
 Gently ip open the USB connector, insert the USB modem into the wide end of the cable
connector clip, and extend the USB modem away from the computer. (Or, you can use the
built-in clip to hook the USB modem over the top of the computer screen)
 Plug the USB connector into the USB port on the computer.
 The USB modem is powered by the computer as soon as the USB cable is plugged properly
into the USB port.
 Launch VZAccess Manager and click Connect.

16
Accessing the User Guides
The User Guides can be easily accessed any time the installation CD is inserted. The installation CD
includes the following User Guides:
•VZAccess Manager Software User Guide — Explains the VZAccess Manager features
•USB551L Modem Product User Guide — Explains the USB551L Modem’s hardware features