Cradlepoint Releases Firmware 1.6.12 for MBR1200

CradlePoint Firmware 1.6.12 for MBR1200 Adds Support for New Devices and Bug Fixes

Firmware 1.6.12 allows you to use your U301 in an MBR1200!

CradlePoint has released Firmware Version 1.6.12 that provides the MBR1200 with official support for the new Sprint 3G/4G U301 modem, as well as support for other modems and long-awaited fixes for stability and bugs.

After last month's firmware updates for the PHS300/CTR500/MBR1000/MBR900, the MBR1200 was Cradlepoint's only 4G-capable router that was not compatible with Sprint's 3G/4G U301. With this firmware update, U301 users can now use their modem with the MBR1200, too!

In addition to adding support for the U301, firmware 1.6.12 also adds support for the following devices:

• Pantech UMW190 for Verizon
  
• Pantech UM185 for Cricket
• Sierra Wireless 305 USB (AKA "Lightning") for AT&T
• Sierra Wireless 306 USB for AT&T and Telus
• Ubee PXU1900 for CLEAR
• ZTE MF668 for Rogers
• ZTE MF637 for T-Mobile
• Option GE442 for T-Mobile
  
• Additional newly-added international devices can be viewed in the release notes (PDF)

This latest firmware version also provides fixes for a few bugs:

• WiFi Multimedia (WMM) problem, which prevented iPod Touch and iPhone users from connecting to the MBR1200
  
• Blackberry Bold incompatibility issue
• Blackberry Curve incompatibility issue
• Blackberry Storm OS 5.0 incompatibility issues
• Fixes to make WiMAX (4G) connection more reliable
• U300 reset issue
  

Finally, firmware 1.6.12 added a couple new features:

• "Agressive Modem Reset" causes the router to attempt various reset techniques to attempt to re-establish connection if the modem becomes unresponsive
• "4G auto-reconnect feature" allows you to configure whether you want to connect to 3G or 4G based on various conditions
• "Make-before-Break"is a nice feature for dual-mode 3G/4G modem users - if you're connected to 3G and 4G becomes available, the router will connect to 4G before breaking the 3G connection
  

For full details on what this firmware release provides, view the release notes (PDF)

Important note about upgrading your MBR1200 to firmware version 1.6.12: Due to a bug in the 1.6.3 firmware (the version installed on all current MBR1200's by default), firmware upgrades must be done by using the automatic firmware upgrade option within the router's web administration page (an active internet connection is required) - you cannot upgrade the firmware by saving the file to your computer and then browsing for it. For those ordering the MBR1200 from 3Gstore.com, we can upgrade the firmware for you before shipping your router for a $15 fee.

If you plan to upgrade the firmware yourself, check out this article that demonstrates how to perform the upgrade from 1.6.3 to 1.6.12: MBR1200 Firmware Upgrade Issues

---

Pricing Note: The MBR1200's retail price is going UP on 4/1/2010 by $50 (MSRP to become $349.99). Also, the current $50 Mail-In Rebate on the MBR1200 ENDS on 3/31/2010. If you are thinking about getting an MBR1200, do so on or before 3/31/2010 to take advantage of the low pricing!

---

Related Links:

• Cradlepoint Firmware 1.6.12 Release Notes (PDF)
• How to upgrade your MBR1200 Firmware
  
• Read full CradlePoint MBR1200 Review
• Purchase the MBR1200 Securely from 3Gstore.com (save $50 if purchased by 3/31/10!!!)
  
• Purchase the U301 with Sprint service from 3Gstore.com
• Purchase the U301 without service (no-contract upgrade) from 3Gstore.com
  
• Discussion about Firmware 1.6.12 Release - EVDOforums.com