The Huawei E220 is a Huawei HSDPA access device ( modem ) manufactured by Huawei and notable for using the USB interface (USB modem).
Technically it is a modem, USB and (due to the CDFS format) virtual CD-ROM device.
Launched on 21 june 2006, the device is used for wireless Internet access using 3.5 G, 3G, or2Gmobile telephony networks. It supports UMTS (includingHSDPA), EDGE, GPRS andGSM.
E220 works well with Linux, as support for it was added inLinux kernel 2.6.20, but there are workarounds for distributions with older kernel (eg forDebian etch's 2.6.18). The card is also supported by Vodafone mobile connect for linux, and it is possible to monitor the signal strength through other Linux applications.
Most 3G network operators bundle the device with a contract, with some operators simlocking the device . Unlocked and unbranded modems can also be bought from independent suppliers.
A colloquial name for the modem is 'soap on a rope'.