Hewlett-Packard in Russia: new items, especially the domestic PDA market and its prospects

Development Manager category - so called in the Russian division of Hewlett-Packard office of Paul Kuzmenko, responsible for mobile systems, whose duties include supervision and direction "PDAs." Recall that HP - unconditional leader of Russia and Europe in terms of sales series iPAQ handhelds based on Pocket PC. On the eve of the final annual news conference the company, which will take place next week, our reporter managed to interview Paul in order to find out when our shelves will the recently announced budget HP H1910 and the first hi-end PDAs a new generation of H5400, which is planned to Pocket PCs release in the coming year, how the company sees the Russian market and that will be offered to our customers. HPCru: How can we explain the success of Hewlett Packard? You are second in sales after the Palm ... PK: In this segment, ie segment of handheld computers on the Pocket PC, we have a commanding lead. Our products - the most sold on this platform. And of course, in our plans to strengthen this leadership. On the other hand, if you compare our products with products of the company, Palm and "clones", Sony, for example, I can say that our products are initially positioned for a different market segment than they do. Emphasis on the possibility of using our handheld computers for corporate use of vertical markets. In many ways, the success of the platform as a whole and our brand in particular due to the fact that our users have traditionally purchased equipment from Compaq and HP, were still able to use mobile devices, handheld computers, to meet their needs - the needs of vertical markets. This may be logistics, could be tracking cargo, may be mobile management, in particular, mobile management IT-infrastructure. In addition, it may be an organization of wireless Internet access, work with the CRM-database (customer relationship management) for sales. HPCru: Corporate market is very picky about the perfect "enchanted" hardware solutions for different needs. As HP, at the level of line iPaq, copes with this? PK: Here we are successful largely due to the openness iPAQ, the very concept of what used to be called "Jacket," and now called the Expansion Packs. This system allows for the issuance of new options are very effective to meet a particular need for the user. Plus, those users who have become accustomed to a particular brand - HP / Compaq - get a complete solution, without changing your favorite brand. It is this focus on full-scale solutions aimed at corporate users, to offer a specific package and leads to success in this market. In addition, another important factor is the design. In fact, for a long time, iPAQ became a trendsetter in this segment. It is possible to achieve considerable success in the future we are going to develop them. HPCru: That purposefulness for corporate use due to the presence of the scanner otpechtakov fingers in new models? This new level of enterprise security? PK: Yes, this is definitely a new level of security and the opportunity while maintaining the price niche, which we have traditionally adhere to (we are well aware that we are not price leaders), to achieve the one hand a new level of personalization, on the other - maximum security. For a sufficiently large number of enterprise applications is needed from a security perspective, the qualitative verification of the user.Necessary security to work with these devices, because only in this case, our customers can be sure that confidential information is important for their business will not be lost or stolen even if the physical loss of the device. Biometric authentication - not only our strong point. Those technologies that have been successfully tested in previous modelh now, thanks to a new level of integration, we can not offer both options, as well as built into the base product. We are talking mainly about the wireless data - Wi-Fi, in the first place, and well-proven and long ago embedded in the chip iPAQ Bluetooth, which will continue in the new series. HPCru: How HP is looking at plans of some companies producing supercheap Pocket PC? PK: Of course we monitor market trends related to the preservation and development of niche low-cost devices, and plan next year to issue a special series of inexpensive cars, which will preserve the dignity of "older" models (I mean the focus on corporate users ), but at the same time certain elements of functionality will have been removed in order to translate them into a different price segment. Therefore, the plans of competitors to produce very cheap cars do not will catch us by surprise - and in this price niche we can offer our customers a complete solution. Generally the market is scheduled two directions: makmsimalno cheap machines without too much functionality on one hand, on the other - multifunction devices with features that are virtually do not occur in "standard" PDA. Promotion strategies of these two types of devices on the market are very different. We already have experience of working with expensive models, and market low-cost handsets for us until a special niche, which still has a lot of work. HPCru: The Russian market has its own specifics. Here, there is little corporate use of handheld options, but many customers who buy PDAs in image purposes. Does this trend continue? PK: The Russian market is booming, its volume, according to our estimates, approximately 65,000 units sold this year (for comparison - last year this figure does not exceed 50 thousand). That is, the growth in the face. Surely noticed that there is a large group of consumers who use these devices in order to fashion, including, for these purposes often choose iPAQ. We are not seeing big trouble, because our market is, of course, must go through those stages which were the markets of other countries - from the Pocket PC as a personal organizer to the work of CCP as a component of a complete solution. I must say that in this matter, we see positive changes. They are related to the fact that quite a large package of corporate orders we already have - these supplies are used exclusively for the needs of the business organization, for vertical markets, which I have already spoken. Number of clients is constantly growing and this can not but rejoice. As for those devices that are sold as gifts or bought for image purposes ... A little early to talk about it, but I think that our line of inexpensive handheld hardly designed for this market segment. In Russia, for creating an image using still more expensive models. Therefore, the "younger" Our devices will soon be used by corporate customers that are sensitive to the budget. For example, in the framework of a decision in which the hardware will be allocated a small portion of funds. HPCru: When do you estimate the Russian market will exceed threshold of 100 thousand units sold per year? PK: If the market will show the same tendency to grow, and if the GSM-operators extend the range of available content services (access to corporate networks, e-mail), perhaps as early as next year. HPCru: On the cellular networks. Russia does not recognize international certificates of cellular equipment, so all the mobile innovations have come late - after the domestic certification.Does HP plans to deliver to the Russian market modification line iPaq 5400 GSM / GPRS module? PK: Actually, shipping equipment new line will begin in late December of this year, so be on sale in Russia, they will appear in the first quarter of next year (in February, apparently). As for the model with built-in GSM / GPRS, these cars will be supplied later, but in any event, we hope that by the end of the first calendar quarter of 2003, they will be available to Russian users. We're working hard to licensing issues, and all devices that will be delivered to Russia will be held all the necessary certification procedures. HPCru: Will you cooperate with the cellular networks of stores, as do Nokia and Siemens, or model of iPaq 5400 GSM / GPRS modudem will be sold in stores that sell handhelds as an ordinary PDA with advanced features? PK: We are considering options for distribution of new products through mobile operators, but now the more interesting option for cooperation on providing corporate customers with data services. HPCru: In Europe and the world at large platform Palm OS still maintains its lead in total sales PDAs. In Russia, the Pocket PC platform some time ago to get ahead. What explains this specificity of the Russian market? PK: Judging from our data, Palm, plus "clones" occupy about 35-40% of the market, while HP - slightly more than 25%. But in general, really, Pocket PC in Russia ahead of Palm. I think this is due to the fact that it is on the Pocket PC platform first appeared really and truly elegant full-featured handheld computers. And the explosion of interest in handheld computers, as such it has been linked with certain devices that work on Pocket PC 2002, in particular with the iPAQ with large screens and functionality. Well, the second factor - the habit of using Wintel'ovskih (Windows plus Intel) platforms. HPCru: New Palm PDAs and the new OS will significantly change the alignment of the global market? PK: Of course, we are cautiously refers to the actions of our competitors, but we believe that the devices that appear in our range and in general on a platform of the Pocket PC 2002 will compete with the new technology from Palm. Some things did not change. This superiority in performance, functionality, easy integration with other maykrosoftovskimi products, timing, ability to work in operating systems with similar interfaces - all play into our hands. Therefore, for users of Palm OS new - good news for Pocket PC, and HP in particular, has to respond, and we expect that, at least, the existing balance of forces continues, and moreover, Pocket PC will gradually take away the position of at Palm. HPCru: Russian PDA market, unfortunately, are quite small and unobtrusive. Will there be some promotional work for the promotion of products HP, or platforms, Pocket PC, or "pocket" class of computers, as such? PK: This work is already being gradually, though it may be, its results are not as noticeable. We promote our technique in osnovnovnom through specialized companies that provide turnkey solutions in this area. They receive from our marketing support and promote our devices in the enterprise market. As for mass advertising, we've recently released a new catalog. He has appeared as a tab in certain business publications and is a separate page devoted just PDAs. Next year we plan to continue to work on the popularization of mobile solutions in general. Planned a lot of promotions associated with laptops, the next step - the inclusion of these shares are held computers. The authors, translation:

Moscow Press Conference Palm: results, plans and technology development

Yesterday at Sheraton Hotel hosted a press conference of the European branch of Palm, which represented sales director for Central Europe, Mr. Markus Bregler. Conventionally, his speech can be divided into the formal part of - a demonstration of leadership companies in the world market, a story about the benefits of Palm OS and development under her plans for the industry leader - and unofficial - answers to sophisticated questions in the audience ... and during the reception. But on the latter below. Incidentally, during the official part of Mr. Bregler not let the audience get bored. Rapporteur made with colorful detailed presentation, which began with a brief digression into the history of the PDA technology. The room, incidentally, have gathered from computer publications, distributors Palm in Russia (White Wind, MakTsentr, RRC), the software developers.

Back to the Future

Sightseeing tours in the history of Palm released ironic optimistic. Bregler altogether extraordinary storyteller, have undoubted charm to positive, which is an encouraging effect on the audience. So, look at the history. The first generation of Pocket PC Palm, developed more Jeffrey Hawkins, was unequivocal failure. Bill Gates (then still the richest man in the planet), predicted the emergency destruction of the devices of this kind. But the company's management just did not give up. To draw conclusions from a negative experience, Palm introduced the world to handhelds exactly as what we do now know and love:) The reasons for which the first experiment designed Palm'y have not received the recognition were several. Firstly, goromozdkaya OSes, try to copy the OS desktop, but slow and eats batteries for two hours. Secondly, the size of the device. Third, the inconvenience of work. And the last. Developers had to make a revolution in the minds of potential consumers, proving that such a small device is not just a toy, but really a mini-computer. In other words, the creators of the CCP had to abandon the idea of ​​producing the evolution of their devices, similar to the development of desktop computers. They needed to find, as they say, its own special way. And the "golden mean" was found. CPC should not be similar to a personal computer. It should be a rather advanced organizer that always keeps people at all times. Hence sdedovalo that

• batteries should last longer
• size of the machine should be such that it easily fits in your pocket
• polzvatsya she was simply and conveniently

Thus was determined the general line of direction of development of Palm - and the first handheld computers were gradually win the hearts of users worldwide. By making available the operating system to third-party developers, Palm has opened a new market, and gradually evolved into a global industry leader.

Company Palm Ceychas: own vision and view of the

Today, Palm, despite the crisis - falling stock sales - still ranks first in the global PDA market. Thus, the share of its market in Europe in 2001 was 59%. In total, sold about 18 million units. Second in terms of sales comes on the heels of Compaq Palm. True, the gap between them is too great - for PDAs from Compaq 14% of the market. Recently in Internet Palm introduced its financial report, which shows that the company focused on developing new models. With that, the company's profits by 44% lower than the previous year, the funding of new developments has declined by only 8% compared to the first quarter. Over the last quarter of Palm spent on new development $ 37.7 million, and in just the last six months - $ 78.9 million from the above figures show that in general aggravated the economic situation in the company of the least affected department R & D (Research and Development - the new development). Palm sacrifices, in her view, the small - such as subdivision, for example, an online portal MyPalm - for more. Markus Bregler confirmed this information, officially announced that Palm deystvielno bets on the upcoming news and features on the Palm OS operating system, the fifth version. Information about new devices for the official part, he said, smiling, refused to give, in a presentation by showing only an empty position in the form of new models of PDAs, which should be announced in the spring CeBIT'e. But intrigued reporters just did not let Marcus. Read about it below.

Palm suggests ....

Bregler briefly outlined the direction of development of the company. This, above all, access to web content and corporate data bases, communications (email, SMS, voice communications)-protected banking and entertainment. In the near future, according to the speaker, the money never will:) Of course, Bregler not promised to communism, but to replace Palm'om wallet with cash and credit cards is likely in the near future. In Las Vegas, has already passed a similar experiment last year. Buyer tester paid off with the help of his electronic wallet-Palm'a in store and even produced a banking operation. Basic, yet unsolved problem, of course, qualitative data protection and the accounts of the owner of such an electronic wallet. The information about new products, which shared with the public Markus Bregler not sinned detail. Reporter promised support in models of a new series of standard wireless Bluetooth. Most of the later models produced will belong to the devices high-end class, and equipped with memory expansion cards Secure Digital. Rapporteur has demonstrated Bluetooth SD card, with which it relate the Palm m 505 with a mobile phone and carries the call. Talk, so you can through a special bluetooth-headset (headphones with microphone), without wires, without taking the phone out of his pocket. With the help of this card is also possible to access the Internet. On the slide of the presentation were shown prototypes of peripherals, based on the SD-card - a modem, digital camera, GPS-receivers, barcode scanner, MP3-player and the actual wireless module and Bluetooth. Vyctavke spring at CeBIT will be expected to demonstrate at least three new models, two of which - the class hi-end, as well as the already rumored Palm m 525. One of the models will be equipped with black and white screen, the other color with a resolution of 320x320 pixels. All models of the new line will come with slots for memory cards SD / MMC, amount of RAM in the older models will be 16 MB in under 8 MB.

Markus Bregler debunks myths and makes conclusions

The final part of speech Markus Bregler debunks several myths about PDAs Palm. In particular, this PDA is not a multimedia device.Indeed, the machine can work with very different media, and preparing to release new products with high-resolution screen would make it even better. And in conclusion, even said, and showed that the CPC works even better with Microsoft Office, as the device for which this software is:) General tone of the press conference was very friendly. Reporter avoids call licensees Palm - Sony and Handspring competitors, expressing the official view of the company. According to her, they were partners and worthy successor of Palm. Competing as Pocket PC, he gently chided, and promised that the new operatsinnoy system and the devices that appear in the near future, the gap between them has greatly increased. And Microsoft is already hard to catch, let alone surpass Palm. Such optimism is a top manager of the company is encouraging that the world's leader still keep his victory, which is what we wish Palm and all her staff:) and go to the promised an informal part of informal communication with a cup of coffee and a sandwich:)

Cluhi high reliability ...

Press conferences would have absolutely no interest to journalists, if not accompanied by a properly ... and banquets. And you can eat delicious, and representatives of the serving side can be in a private conversation over a glass, excuse me, a cup of tea rasprositi about what they were deliberately concealed by the official part. A cup of tea, they become so talkative ...:) Markus Bregler was no exception to the rule, and after leaving the room the most nimble gaggle of journalists neatly squeezed him into a corner and carefully inquired. Say in advance what kind of information that you have read, among the strictest confidence, characterized in that in any case is not complete and unequivocal truth. Recall, as it was not made officially be called a high degree of reliability of hearsay ... So, at first more or less reliable information about the upcoming PalmOS 5. The new system will be available in mid-year, new devices based on it - just at the end. On interface design it is practically will not differ from the classical one. Why wean the user from that to which he was accustomed to? Speaking about the interface, Marcus alluded to the fact that in today's 4-th system already has a lot of what ugotovleno users in the fifth. To a direct question about whether the new system updates are available for earlier models 500 and 505, he replied in the affirmative. Moreover, they will be available on a mandatory basis, however, poldzovateli were missing some multimedia features, but it already costs the old processors. It is interesting that, according to Marcus, the operating system will be one that is not a separate version for ARM and Motorola processors. The new Palm will necessarily equipped with bluetooth module and be sure to expansion slot. By the way, we were able to bluetooth card zazhe watch in action and even take pictures ... But only after a representative of the Palm enlisted our promise not to publish images of another two months ... However, very interested can go here to PalmInfoCenter and look at everything with my own eyes ... The information obtained from the same sources, Palm will continue the practice of Low-end PDAs, called the student, low budget or "popular" series.This means that we are waiting for the next reincarnation of the Palm m125 but with the new system. It is also rumored that the new OS will be multitasking and multimedia. What remains CeBIT'a wait and see everything with my own eyes:) The authors, translation:

Microsoft is preparing for us coming

Say "computers", we mean "Microsoft", right? So, anyway, believe most of our contemporaries with you. If the market will change, just as now (ie, Palm will take place), soon it will become true for handheld computers. Learn than it is now in the mobile computer giant is busy, what are the plans for the future, we helped Gold partner of Microsoft, the company "Quarta Technologies. - To begin, please say a few words about the company. How and when it was created, as you become a gold partner of Microsoft, why engaged in mobile development? - Initially, the company is "Quarta", formed in 1993, is developing a program for the accounting of the presidential administration, while another Yeltsin. In 1996, the company has grown into a group of companies (there are, say, "Quart - sensor technology" that deal with decisions based on sensor technology and touch screens). We - Quarta Technologies. Accordingly, since 1997, was immediately embarked on to become partners of Microsoft, a company engaged in e-commerce, selling software, solutions. And in 2001 the company came here and I have a new direction - unit was set up mobile development. I myself have a 1996 doing various Windows CE-cars and decisions. This trend is well served as the general direction of the company, and now occupies a quite respectable place in the overall structure. - And what the company is engaged in addition to mobile development? - There is division, which sells software, mostly from Microsoft and the companies that produce extensions and additions to various products Microsoft. In general, sellers and distributors. Another division has been developing business systems and e-commerce. And the third - we. - How do you become a partner of Microsoft? -Partnership with Microsoft was a strategic decision at the dawn of the company. "Quarta" became a partner of Microsoft, even in 1997 - Microsoft Certified Partner (if it was called Microsoft Solution Provider) - provider of solutions based on products and technologies from Microsoft. In 2000, the company has become - a gold partner of Microsoft. Since my arrival and the creation of a new trend appeared statuses Windows Embedded Partner, Mobile Solution Provider, and more. - Everyone knows that you do localization, but certainly also has other "mobile" projects ... - Well, the localization of not more than perhaps 20% of our business and in fact it is a much wider area - is the development of new devices. We are working with several OEM-producers, both Russian and foreign. For example, with all the known major Russian manufacturer of mobile devices Rover Computers Group. About Western can not speak, there is a problem. There is agreement that all the public appearances we are only together, so do not tell you. There is talk about the development of devices, firmware, drivers, different system applications ... - But the "hardware" we are not talking? - Sometimes, along with the developers of hardware, we solve the problem "at the crossroads." Tells developers how to efficiently and accurately solve a particular problem. - Where to start work on localization? - Well, let's say ... Our company has employees who were engaged in localization of all, when Microsoft released a Russian Microsoft Word 2.0 (PC). So in terms of localization, we have very experienced staff. As for mobile products, the first system of containment, which was made under my direction - "Russian Launch", ie Russian version of Windows CE 2.0-2.12. This product has not been packaged option for specific machines, this product is limited to OEM-producers, in addition to the development environment, Microsoft Platform Builder. - And why you did not pursue Russification Mitac Mio? - Why? We have made it. Question again in the strategy of our work. There are OEM-manufacturer, which built on this platform to produce the machine, for it Russification was made. - Can we call this OEM-manufacturer? - I think the problem is not here, this Rover Computers. - What is now engaged in projects especially in the area of ​​localization of handheld devices? Do you plan to deal with a new Mitac 338? - It is titled Mitac, definitely not.But based on or nearly on the basis of this model, several companies make their cars, some of them we work. Generally, there will be many different machines for different manufacturers, but understand that the Russian language and Russian markets, we do not limit ourselves. For example, an order for our technology from a European OEM. So I can, for example, show car, which nobody has ever seen and that has a chance to appear in Russia, although its target market - Latin America. We have developed for it all from scratch. - You - a gold partner of Microsoft. Does this mean that all such developments will be linked solely with the Pocket PC platform and future products of this company? - In fact, the situation is as follows. At this point, it is our priority platform ... Although for some reason, they forget that Microsoft has yet another mobile embedded system, called Windows XP Embedded. This is not an ordinary Windows XP, there is the same as the Windows CE component development environment. True if Windows CE itself "lives" on a heap of different processors, the Windows XP Embedded runs only with x86 processors, and allows you to create solutions that best approximate the functions of Windows XP Professional. But again, this is a separate development environment, and so on ... With her, we also work very hard. - Are there any "live" device on this operating system? - A lot! They were even in our country enough. We have one partner from Peter, who, for example, POS systems on it does. The OS Microsoft is positioning between the various Windows CE-devices, servers and desktops. It is designed for different classes of computers, from gaming consoles and finishing devices to authenticate to the network structures. Roughly speaking, where the need of some protection, work with multiple users, there is Windows CE gives up and runs Windows XP Embedded. Well, for example that the X-Box'e, this sort of derivative of Windows XP Embedded (plus multimedia extensions, plus the expansion of gambling). The requirements for this operating system a little more, the minimum version of the kernel is 30 MB, but at today's prices on flash-memory is quite possible to afford a full version of the kernel is almost the same as "a desktop" version of Windows XP. - Who does not like you asking about the future plans of Microsoft's mobile OS. When will the machines on the Windows CE 4.1, when the new version of Pocket PC? - By itself, Windows CE 4.1 is already there, OEM-producers can do on her PDA, but the Pocket PC based on it and never will be. The new Pocket PC will be built on a new kernel, which is still code-named McCendrik, I do not know how he will be called: 4.2, 5.0 ... This will be further developed line of 4.0, 4.1, and it will also be available as a Platform Builder for developers as 3.0. But in general, with the shell, and applications will be called Pocket PC 2003, Pocket PC 2004 or something like that. As far as I know, they still own about the name not exactly solved. - And some terms are known? - OEM-producers at the next CeBIT, is likely to show prototypes of machines, and by the end of summer to autumn, such PDAs have already appeared for sale. OEM'y will receive software for prototyping somewhere in January or February to March to the prototypes were ready. - What, in your opinion, is caused by the failure of Smartphone 2002? Because we all know of a case with Sendo, which is a long, long agony, collected, but as a result refused to release the smartphone OS maykrosoftovskoy ... - It is hard to evaluate ... I can only express my personal opinion. In my opinion, there are several reasons. First of all, not a very good concept. She is too weighted phone, but gave no significant functionality. It seems to me closer to the ideal Pocket PC Phone Edition. And secondly, rendering the unwillingness OEM-manufacturers. In my dialogue with representatives of several Taiwanese manufacturers of mobile devices (namely, there is most of the machines) found that there are problems with the supply of processors that are powerful enough to pull the Smartphone 2002, and the other would consume too much energy. There is criticism on the work of power management, in general, a lot of "okolotehnologicheskih" problems. Roughly speaking, it turned out that the requirements of OSes and the possibility of bad hardware interfaced with each other.As far as I know, Microsoft is conducting a very active "work on the bugs, and most likely will be some new platform. The situation will be something like a Pocket PC. Now inside the Smartphone 2002 is spinning Windows CE 3.0, but with the transition to the new kernel, along with the Pocket PC 2003 (let's call it so) will be designed Smartphone on the same core. It's easier for developers - a single API, the portability of programs ... - There is some public information about the "mobile" plans for Microsoft? - Soon to be released is another pretty big update for Pocket PC 2002. It relates to the fact that in mid-December came the final release of Compact Framework, so he will be integrated into the Pocket PC 2002. Again, if this update actually appears to be strongly dependent on OEM-manufacturers. For example: update to Windows Media Player has been available OEM'am, if not mistaken, on August 14. But Compaq (ie HP) posted his November 29. Accordingly, between the output of update for developers and users is a lot of time. To reduce this gap all the time, Microsoft told partners, as necessary, as this is useful, in particular, corporate customers, it is important to release an update soon. With the Compact Framework to all lead such an example: an application that performs some business task (for example, fills the bill), running on the desktop, and immediately, without recompiling transferred to the mobile device and works there. Yes, it may be deleted some additional functionality, yes, you need to carefully use the zoom windows. But, nevertheless, Compact Framework - an opportunity to make an application that will work both there and here, retaining virtually 100% of investment in developing solutions. A related and a new distribution system for applications (for her we also had a hand), for example, through a network of mobile operators. Say, a mobile operator orders the development of an application, well, such as network games and toys then available as a phone or smartphone, and with desktops, and devices with Pocket PC, connected to a network. - What else in terms of mobile development deals with Microsoft? - Another area that we particularly engaged in this smart-displays, what used to be called MIRA. OEM, working in partnership with Microsoft, is able to adapt the system to their device in a fairly wide range. Each manufacturer their views about the functionality of the future devices, here we are dealing with such developments. - And how do you see the Russian market prospects of devices such as, for example, airpanel 100 from ViewSonic? - It is in this scenario, I slightly believe in its success, but in fact at the same ViewSonic is a model that fully meets the specifications Smart Display. It is, as far as I know, will deliver to the U.S. in late January and in Europe and Russia at the end of the first quarter of next year. And anyway, I think, in the corporate sphere more relevant Tablet PC. And in the home ViewPad, with its limited functionality, are also unlikely to take hold. People who can afford such a device, of course, have a computer and give them an opportunity to have a mobile monitor is most likely to be much more interesting. We tested several such devices. One simply amazed ample opportunities in multimedia. Say, the desktop turns DVD-movie, and you can lie on the couch and watch the movie on the wireless display. There's a magnificent 15-inch display with Touch Screen, and this device will be available to us, probably sometime in April. As for the name, his name while it is impossible, since there was no commercial advertisements of the product. I think you'll hear it themselves in the near future - painful problem neoptimizirovannosti Pocket PC 2002 under the new processor XScale. Microsoft will do something about it? - First, let us return to the story. Now the whole maykrosoftovsky software is maintained at ARM v4. In XScale running ARM v5.Estimates have been made that an easy transition from v4 to v5 gives meager performance gains, but it lost compatibility with StrongARM processors, and others like the same TI OMAP or Motorola MX1, with ARM-processors, Samsung, which is now actively trying to break into the market for Pocket PC devices (in the recently announced models of smartphones have options and XScale, and on its own processor). So Microsoft took a purely marketing decision. Again, pull the disparate platforms because of the very small performance boost ... especially when you can just cheat megahertz. - That is not even the optimization gives a significant gain? - Gain error correction allows the processor. I will not reveal a big secret (Intel, the truth may be offended), if I say that in earlier editions of XScale processors had problems with the work of cache memory. I explain. As we know, Intel processors have such a thing as a "stepping", that is practically processor version. In processors, as in all "okoloprogrammnyh" cases, there are mistakes. Due to some bugs in early versions of processors could not include cache memory mode writeback, which allows you to maximize productivity. Although again the time goes, the producers are working on the bugs and I've already seen the fall of the exhibition, like Hewlett Packard showed the new cars the 39th series, where it was noticeable performance gains, even compared to previous releases. And what about new? As far as I know, the entire 54th series processors is at least version C0 with bug fixes and will run even faster. Now producers are engaged in cooperation with Intel CPU-optimized video drivers and multimedia modules, which already allows increasing the speed of these machines without cheating megahertz and losses in energy conservation. To this end, Intel has released a special package of Intel Performance Primitives for the StrongARM processor family and XScale. - It was recently announced the release of multiple graphics accelerators for handheld ... Someone planning to use them? - Yes, already in full. I can show the machine, which uses the accelerator from MediaQ ... - This is who has the hardware is able to accelerate playback of DivX? - Well, it's unlikely ... there is only some functions of acceleration output video picture on screen [after a few days it became clear that this machine Rover PC P5 - Ed.]. In the Toshiba e740 accelerator built ATI Imageon, while there problemki with drivers and with the support of his functions in toys, but this is only a matter of time and established standards. In particular, the new Pocket PC, which will work on a new kernel, some functionality will be "desktop" 9 th DirectX. To be able to work quietly with accelerators. - That is Quake 3 on a handheld computer - is not out of the realm of fantasy? - No, this is not a fantasy, but relatively close reality. Almost all of the company's latest exhibition showed new accessories for the new Pocket PC, for example, such as different variants of mobile drive designed to play DVD. This raises the question of performance - we need new processors and new accelerators (the processor will read from a mapped drive and decrypt data, and the accelerator will display the image on the screen). But about the graphics accelerators in the budget typewriters should be forgotten. - Tell us about your project with Mobile TeleSystems ... - Actually, this project is Microsoft, we speak just as their partner. And accordingly, for detailed comments excellent contact Microsoft directly, but I can only say that this project can also try a solution for integrating enterprise information systems with the services of a mobile operator. As far as I know, connected to several corporate clients and all this hard test. The main thing that a corporate client receives - is mobile access to e-mail, schedules, calendars ... The test machines used by HTC (design, which is known under the brand names O2, T-Mobile) and Hewlett Packard H3970. With regard to commercial exploitation, I do now, I can not say yes and no right. I'd better tell you about another one of our project. We still have one, just have a massive project that is associated with cellular operators. It consists of different pieces, since getting a mobile device of various information data, ending with network games.In the near future for more information about this project can be found on our website www.pocketpc2002.ru. The authors, translation:

Nokia 9210: The Inside Story

Nokia 9210 can without exaggeration be called one of the most anticipated devices of 2001. Despite the fact that he appeared quite long ago (in July), the interest in this model is still very high. However, it is not surprising - in fact today an equivalent device has not released any other manufacturer of mobile devices! This enabled Nokia 9210 to become rekordsemenom sales in the 3 quarter of 2001, leaving far behind all its competitors. But still, what caused so much interest it is to this model, because Nokia has already released communicators ("hybrid" cell phone and PDA) before - remember the model 9000 and 9110. Perhaps, the predecessors of the Nokia 9210 can say that they are ahead of their time. Indeed, it is only in recent years have seen a surge of activity of users of cellular networks and a sharp increase in demand for mobile access to the Internet. But back to the Nokia 9210. So, what is of itself a device? Communicator - a sort of "hybrid" cell phone and PDA. However, to say so - to say nothing. It is not just about combining in a single case of two devices, but a very tight integration among themselves. A simple example: You open the address book to find out the phone of a friend. Finding the right phone, you are a single keystroke can send a short message (SMS), send a fax or simply call - and this does not need to use the numeric keypad. Comfortable? Absolutely! I do not want to bore the reader unnecessary technical details, so I very briefly touch on "stuffing" Nokia 9210.

• Phone: dual-band phone standard GSM, 900/1800 MHz. Standard features - reception-sending of short messages, a list of all calls, infrared, data transmission
• Computer: CPU ARM9, 12MB flash ROM, 8MB of memory (RAM), 4MB internal drive (flash memory), the expansion at the expense of additional memory card MMC / SD. Screen 640x200 pixels (not a touchscreen), 4096 colors. Built-in microphone and speaker. Serial (RS-232) and infrared ports. Operating system: Symbian OS Release 6.0, version of Crystal.

The box with the communicator is also a cable for connection to a desktop computer via serial port, a charger and a CD with the software. Nokia 9210 uses a new version of the operating system Symbian OS (formerly known as EPOC 32) - 6.0, the version of Crystal. Symbian - a consortium organized by the leading manufacturers of mobile devices to create a robust and open platform for next-generation devices - smartphones and communicators. Crystal - a prototype of the keyboard device, designed primarily by Nokia. In Symbian OS there is a division into categories of devices: Quartz - keyboardless devices with integrated cellular phone, according to the form similar to a Palm or PocketPC, Crystal - keyboard communicators and Pearl - the so-called smart phones, in essence - a very "advanced" phones (an example of such phone can serve as recently announced by Nokia model 7650). All categories use a common core, the differences mostly limited to the user interface and, of course, screen sizes, the presence / absence of the keyboard, etc. Symbian OS (EPOC 32) is well-known users of handheld computers and the British company Psion has established itself as an extremely reliable, easy to use and unpretentious operating system. From the programmer's perspective, this system is also unique in many respects - primarily due to reasonableness on all interfaces. Symbian OS was originally designed specifically for mobile devices with all the limitations of these devices - such as small amounts of memory, low power consumption, etc. In addition, the system was designed so that on this basis it was possible to create absolutely any device without any restrictions on the user interface. Externally, the Nokia 9210 is virtually identical to its predecessor - Nokia 9110. True, the color of the device was elegant silver, and some external changes (eg, the form of buttons) makes the device very stylish and modern. However, the design has always been a strong point of Nokia. When closed, the device is somewhat similar to cell phones mid-90's - thanks to, in general, a rather big size. But it is necessary to open the lid as soon realize that you hold in hand to achieve the most advanced technology! By the way, whatever the skeptics say - to use the Nokia 9210 phone as a very, very comfortable. Large buttons make dialing easy, and when the conversation is no fear that the phone is accidentally fall through the ear ;-) Extremely useful function "Speakerphone" - if in the course of conversation open the computer, the device automatically switches over to use dynamics. This allows, for example, to quickly write down a phone number or address, which dictated the source. Nokia 9210 does not support actively introduced in the current standard-speed data transfer GPRS, but it supports HSCSD (High Speed ​​Circuit-Switched Data). Unlike GPRS, HSCSD allows data transfer rate constant, as the phone is essentially constant (although it may not be used), several voice channels (GPRS uses only free channels only when necessary and only if they have one). The advantage of HSCSD is more stable as a compound, but the technology is more expensive because the user pays for the connection time, rather than actual traffic. In Russia, HSCSD technology is introduced, for example, the operator North-West GSM in St. Petersburg. The standard approach for most mobile devices - placing the operating system and embedded applications in neperezapisyvaemoy memory (ROM), and the Nokia 9210 is no exception. Operating system and most embedded applications are available in flash ROM, which allows you to update the system as new versions - this habitual users of modern mobile phones. However, some system applications available on the internal hard drive (available) and memory card. On the one hand, it is convenient because the user can update some applications without having to carry the device to a service center. On the other hand, when replacing the memory card, these applications must be reinstalled from scratch, which is not very convenient if you polzuete multiple cards. Sometimes it seems that Nokia's just decided to save a little on the amount of built-in flash ROM. It is also not clear what guided the developers, when limiting the amount of RAM 8 MB (though at the time of the development of a standard volume is considered 16MB), 4 of which, incidentally, immediately "eaten off" system to fit their needs. Total for user programs is only 4 MB! This is clearly not enough, despite the fact that the system is very undemanding application to memory. But try to download, for example, a large Microsoft Word document in a text editor - and you'll understand what I mean. If simultaneously running multiple applications such as Word or Sheet, do not be surprised to see the message "Not enough memory". It is fair to say that to solve the problem is often simply close some not used in the present application. Causes a lot of complaints system stability with the first "commercial" version of firmware 3.18. Alas, apparently felt that the developers took the time to release the device "in light" - because the original firmware version was full of weird problems. Which is interesting - every user problems arose their own, absolutely not similar to everyone else. Kind of "device with character." Fortunately, released soon version 3.54 worked much more stable. The current version 3.62 has practically not satisfactory - extremely stable. The good news is that the firmware update by a Nokia service center for free (for devices that legally imported into Russia).The owners of handheld computers are likely familiar with this concept as "hard reset" (hard reset). Every owner of a handheld device at least once in their lives, but passed through it - for example, if you fully discharge all batteries. The Nokia 9210 is no battery backup, but all data is stored in nonvolatile flash memory, so no data is lost even if the battery is discharged completely. However, it may happen that the device "freezes" and does not react to external influences. In this case it is necessary to disconnect the battery and plugging it back, which is not very convenient. The majority of handheld computers for this purpose there is a special reset button. But suppose that the reset has not helped, and the device has not returned to normal - it is very unlikely, but anything can happen. Then we need to reformat the internal drive of your computer by pressing a special key combination when you reboot, then reinstall the system applications. Nokia 9210 screen - not touch. However, it is typical for all communicators Nokia. Instead of a touch screen, a special panel of four buttons that perform different commands depending on the application and context. Device management is carried out with the keyboard. I must admit that after a touch-screen devices, I had strong doubts about the convenience of working with Nokia 9210 (I have long enjoyed the Psion 5mx). However, the fears proved groundless - are so well thought out interface. The only downside delivers cursor key - it is designed as a kind of "joystick", and sometimes it is easy to click the wrong arrow. The image on the screen is very clear and sharp. In the sunlight it certainly pales, however, is still readable. LCD backlight allows you to work even in total darkness, as well illuminates the keyboard. The keyboard is quite comfortable, although of course the book on it not be helped. But the iron-iron and work something comes with software .. What prompts the user to Nokia 9210? This is a very broad set of applications is practically on all occasions:

• Home (Desktop). This is the first application that the user sees after the first start Nokia 9210. Here you can quickly write a text note. Extremely convenient, for example, when you need to quickly write some information such as phone number or address. However, here there is a hypothetical risk of writing too many of these "notes" and most of them are lost. Also on the desktop, you can create "labels" (links) for frequently used documents, so as not to look for them every time over the entire disk.
• Telephone (Phone). Allows you to use all functions on the phone - to view call history, set up different settings of the phone and the network, the ability to call any number from the phonebook or SIM-card, conference calling and much more.
• Messaging (Messaging). Very powerful email program. Can be used to send / read SMS, fax, e-mail. Due to close integration with the contacts of a recipient and sending messages is done with just one click!
• Internet (Web) - Web-and WAP-browsers for the Internet. Web-browser that supports HTML 3.2 and Java-applets.
• Contacts (Contact Us). Excellent and very functional address book. Ability to maintain multiple databases with different fields, set the template for new contacts, create, edit and delete your contacts, add new fields. A nice feature - the ability to insert photos. Contacts are very closely integrated with the "telephone" part of the device - for example, contact lists from any database, you can view and phone mode.
• Calendar (Diary). Extremely powerful and user-friendly application. Several different modes (day / week / month / year, to do lists, holidays), various reminders, the opportunity to ask for repetition of events.
• Word - a full-featured text editor. All sorts of text formatting, templates, styles, inserting objects such as tables in the text - in short, all the features of desktop editors!
• Sheet - a great spreadsheet that supports various mathematical and other functions.Finally added support for multiple sheets.
• Presentation Viewer (View Presentation) - a program that allows you to view Microsoft PowerPoint files directly on the Nokia 9210!
• File Manager (File Manager) - analog Explorer (Explorer) in Windows. Review directories and files on your computer, do any of the files.
• Clock (Clock) - base of cities around the world showing the current time in a selected city, its area code, the difference from Greenwich Mean Time, distance to it from the host city, etc. Ability to set audio alerts, reminders at any time.
• Calculator (Calculator) - a nice calculator with two modes: normal, which is available only basic steps with numbers such as multiplication and division, and science - with logarithms and sines.
• Cell broadcast (Newsletter). In GSM cellular networks it is possible to organize the so-called mailing (broadcast) on various topics - for example, the movement of free transport, etc. You can "subscribe" to a particular topic and receive informational messages. As far as I know, in Russia this service by any of the cellular operators are not implemented.
• Data Mover (Data Transfer) - allows for the transfer of all documents and settings from Nokia 9110 to 9210 (for example, if you bought a new device and want to painlessly transfer all data to a new device).
• Help (Help) - context-sensitive help system for most applications of the communicator.
• Imaging (Photo) - application for working with digital camera. You can receive pictures from the camera via infrared and organize them into "albums".
• Voice Recorder (voice recorder). Allows you to record sound from a microphone into a file and play sound files. WAV. Unfortunately, Nokia 9210 has no external control keys, voice recorder, although the previous models were.

One of the unique features of office applications, the Nokia 9210 is to work with documents of Microsoft Office. Thus, we obtain, for example, by e-mail document in MS Word, you can access and view it directly on your device, and if necessary - to make changes, save in the same format and send it by mail as an attachment! This is extremely convenient if you often have to deal with attached files in the formats of MS Office. True, it is necessary to make a reservation - the small screen is still not very conducive to working with large documents. Nor should we expect from the Nokia 9210 full compatibility with desktop files - for example, macros are not supported in the language of Visual Basic (which is quite natural, because the interpreter is the property of Microsoft, which develops its more than one year). However, in that there is a plus - will not run any macro, so popular in recent years and brought a lot of trouble to many people. CD-ROM are also additional applications such as games and some useful utilities. Currently, a large number of companies developing software for Nokia 9210. Already created a variety of applications - games, navigation systems, MP3-players and video files, and more. One of the pressing issues for Russian users is the support of the Russian language. Nokia 9210 has built in support of the Russian language, but the company MakTsentr in collaboration with the Moscow branch of Nokia Mobile Phones has a portfolio full Russian localization for Nokia 9210 Communicator - "Elbrus 9210". Thanks to "Elbrus 9210", the user can fully operate the device in Russian language. Provides support for most Russian-language character sets to the Internet and e-mail, and also carried out translation of all the built-in applications into the Russian language. "Elbrus 9210" has the official status of "Nokia OK". Finally I would like to touch on the Nokia 9210 work with a desktop computer. CD-ROM contains a special program PC Suite for Nokia 9210 Communicator, you can work with the communicator as with a regular desktop drive.All of the files are done by the explorer (Windows Explorer) in the usual way. Also, when using PC Suite you can back up data from your device to a desktop computer, sync contacts, mail and calendar with a "desktop" applications such as Microsoft Outlook. Installing additional applications may also be implemented with a desktop computer. Alas, when using the serial port (RS-232) data rate is low, therefore, to copy large amounts of data (eg from a memory card) it is better to use an external card reader, connected to the PC - it will significantly speed the backup process. By the way, no problems with Russian names of files (typical of previous versions of Symbian OS) at work does not arise. To summarize. Nokia 9210 Communicator - the device only interesting and convenient. It will have on the disposition and man accustomed to work a lot with e-mail and the Internet, and lover of communication via SMS. Unfortunately, not too small price of this device is actually making it accessible only to a certain range of users for whom this is more image thing. Let's hope that eventually this situation will change and the device will no longer be regarded as something unusual - like we already do not pay much attention to the man with the mobile phone. The authors, translation:

Pretec company and its products: unique flash card 2-in-1, MPEG4-camera, GSM / GPRS module for PDAs, etc

Yesterday the Moscow office MakTsentr visited a friendly visit by representatives of the American company Pretec, the world leader in flash memory cards with capacity from 16 MB to 6 GB (!), Unique accessories and peripherals for handheld computers. Recall that during last year's CeBIT 2002 MakTsentr signed an agreement with Pretec the right to exclusive distribution of its products in Russia. Since then, the Russian Internet zone operates the official website of the company (www.pretec.ru), and MakTsentr promptly deliver to the Russian market the latest solutions from Pretec. So, at the November Comdex Fall'2002 exhibition in Las Vegas, Pretec has demonstrated expansion cards Compact Flash memory record at the time of - 1 GB, 1.5 GB, 2 GB and 3 GB, and in January, new items have appeared on sale in Moscow shops network "The computer in the palm." On the following days ago CeBIT 2003 MakTsentr received the award as a distributor of products of this company's fastest-growing business. Our American guests Gordon Yu, president of the Pretec and Ruby Wang, director of sales, have minimized its program in Moscow, decided to limit to one day stay. However, after negotiations that took place in MakTsentr we were able to interview them. Despite his busy schedule, our guests willingly shared with us information, including confidential. HPCru: Give you prefer any operating system for PDAs, releasing their products? Which platform considered the most promising in terms of expansion cards? Gordon Yu: Yes. We mainly focus on devices based on Pocket PC, Pocket PC 2002 and the upcoming version of the OS, Pocket PC 2003. Therefore, at this point prefers Standard Secure Digital as the best prospect for Pocket PC devices and peripherals, respectively, on its basis, that is SDIO-products. Though can not help but note the importance of cheapest and most frequent Compact Flash. At the moment, Pretec offers a complete range of devices and expansion cards, memory form factor CF. But in the end (Mr. Gordon Yu sly smile - approx. HPCru), with the Symbian operating system has a great future, and therefore again a reference to keep on SD and SDIO-card. HPCru: In this case, namely SD form-factor, you are giving the greatest preference, considered the most promising? Gordon Yu: While preference Sompact Flash as a less expensive form factor, but now we are gradually moving to SD. Recently, we expect to begin selling a large number of enhancements based on SD. Among them - the digital camera on an expansion card memory standard Secure Digital (takes pictures at 640x480 pixels - approx. HPCru), presented at the CeBIT 2003, prezentatsionnny complex on an SD card or USB-key chains series iDISK, which can also "work with" CF or SD-cards. In general, we have a range of innovative products. This so-called multifunction cards based on the CF, that is, devices such as "2-in-1, combining, say, GPRS-module and 128 MB memory card, Bluetooth-GPS-transmitter and receiver or the same GPS-receiver and a 128 MB memory card. New items are compatible with Pocket PC devices and some Palm'ami. In the second half of 2003 we plan to issue cards GPRS + Bluetooth and GPRS +802.11 b. And the aforementioned module GPRS + 128 MB memory card will appear as soon as possible.HPCru: How does the impact versatility of these cards at their price? Gordon Yu: As with any innovative product launches, initially a lot of functional maps will be costly. In the future all depends on the situation in the PDA market. They will drop naturally over time. HPCru: Does Pretec initiative "SDIO Now!", Which pushed the company BSquare? (Recall that now the majority of models Pocket PC support SDIO, but this does not mean that any card in this format will be compatible with SDIO-palm. To remedy this situation the company has decided to BSQUARE, throwing a cry - "SDIO Now!" BSQUARE offers to all interested in the development of SDIO producers to join its program and to bring their adapters and PDAs to some common standard. Ideally, the participants of this program will produce a fully compliant products and, thus, that the joint work of cards and handhelds do not even need to install additional drivers . The project has already appeared the first very eminent supporters. For example, the communicator Samsung i700 and the entire PDA HP iPAQ 39xx fully support the program SDIO Now! From the producers of compact peripherals to support the program were Veo, MARGI, Socket Communications with its Wi-cards Fi SD and others. Just the other day about his involvement and said Seiko Instruments with Toshiba. - approx. HPCru) Gordon Yu: Yes, supports and, moreover, we are very enthusiastic about this initiative the company BSquare, which has already picked up many PDA makers and developers periphery. Here's just a pity will be if "SDIO Now!" not approve of Microsoft. In this case, most likely in this initiative will be to put a cross. HPCru: Do you expect to lower prices for CF-cards of large volumes, which are sold already and we have in Russia? I mean, 1 GB, 1.5 GB, 2 GB and 3 GB memory card. Gordon Yu: Yes, of course. In the near future is the bulk of the available expansion cards, RAM 3 GB Compact Flash-valued cheaper at $ 500, through the issuance of cards with capacity of 6 GB (its price - $ 7,499), we presented at CeBIT 2003. 3GB of memory will cost only $ 1999:) HPCru: What Next> abroad in terms of memory, which Pretec going to win? Gordon Yu: Well, in all probability, as it usually happens every year, double the amount of memory, and it will be 12-valued GB Compact Flash card. HPCru: Then, in all likelihood, be doubled and its price? ;) Gordon Yu: Well, not to talk about it a little early (laughs - approx. HPCru). Anyway, with the release of this card will drop like 3GB and 6GB flash. You know, release of such products - it is rather a demonstration of technologies, the level of a particular company. Pretec CF output for a 6 GB - it is an opportunity to tell the world: "Yes, we can do it. We have reached such heights." Because our company at the moment really is a world leader, and a large wall due to the development of flash memory such capacity. HPCru: As soon as the products presented at CeBIT, namely - multifunction expansion card, the camera Pretec DV-4200 with the ability to create video clips in MPEG4, a presentation set in the SD card, and many others will be on sale? Gordon Yu: A large part - in the next month, that is, deliveries will begin in April. Although we have presented so many new products at CeBIT, what exactly is on each of them a specific date to call it is difficult, simply due to lack of time. HPCru: For a very long time rumors about the output of GSM / GPRS-module for the Pocket PC from Pretec in connection with the recent increased interest in such products. Are you planning to release it? Gordon Yu: probably had in mind our GPRS-module. We represented a further CeBIT'e 2001 (Class 2) and another one on CeBIT'2002 year, but these products are unlike most others from Pretec has not yet gone on sale. This is due to difficulties in certification of these devices. This year, at a recent exhibition, we again presented the GSM / GPRS-module on the card Compact Flash. C to help your handheld into a mobile terminal or telephone for data transmission of all types - voice, fax, SMS, Internet content, e-mails. CompactGPRS (as it is called - approx. HPCru) operates in the mobile network standard GSM / GPRS (class 10) at frequencies 900/1800/1900 MHz. The module is compatible with most Pocket PC devices and palmovymi PDA. Is powered by its own battery, saving energy device. We hope that as soon as the blow will be certified, it will appear on the market. HPCru: How do you assess the prospects for Russian PDA market? As far as it is of interest for Pretec? Gordon Yu: The entire Russian market represents for us a company MakTsentr, with which we are certainly very pleased to be working:). Russia - a vast country that needs a lot of effort to reach the market. In this difficult matter, we rely on our distributors, MakTsentr having dealer network in Moscow and St. Petersburg, as well as in other large Russian cities. We hope for fruitful cooperation and will do everything we can to provide Russian customers quality solutions Pretec. The authors, translation:

"Pill" for all diseases the computer industry

Offer you the translation of the most interesting articles from the site TheFeature, dedicated to the idea of actively promotiruemoy Microsoft release a mobile Tablet PC Tablet PC. November 11 head of Microsoft's Bill Gates, standing in front of 11 thousand audience Comdex show in Las Vegas and clutching his head over the tablet the size of the book, said publicly that the future of personal computing. «PC are available to all, - he told his audience, - Tablet also the most advanced PC technologies and make a PC completely mobile. Personally, I use my tablet each day as a regular PC. Tablet PC - a PC, virtually has no limits - and five years later, I'm sure he will be one of the most popular computers ever sold in America. " The last person to trigger the same noise when demonstrating signs crowd of people, was Moses. So Gates presented bezklaviaturnoe devices with wireless capabilities. He showed a special version for the Tablet PC - Groove (software to interact in real time) and AutoDesk CAD, as well as proprietary software Microsoft, allows you to send handwritten messages. It was the second consecutive year, when Gates Comdex'e touted their wares. However, at least, this year, but the words were still something more substantial. According to Microsoft, more than a dozen major computer manufacturers are developing Tablet PC.

Why tablet?

The very idea of ​​tablet PC seems to be very tempting. People use their hands to manipulate objects in the truest sense of the word. The keyboard and mouse are also removed his hands from the objects on the screen that you manage. You must correctly position the fingers on the keyboard, and constantly check in what place the cursor. On the other hand, the stylus and touch screen allows you to directly follow the objects on display. For example, the process of drawing on the tablet PC is very similar to painting on cave walls, that is a favorite way for thousands of years. The only difference is that instead of paint do you use the stylus that transmits a computer radio, so that the latter "knew" in what place the stylus is located. Tablet PC is ideal for students and office workers who need to take notes, for example, at meetings or classes. Unlike laptops, you do not have to use the keyboard. Just put it down and write on its screen, like an ordinary paper notepad. Later with the help of special software you can convert written text into machine, which can easily be printed or send copies via e-mail.

Not just a great PDA

At first glance, tablet PC like PDAs Palm or Pocket PC, only much larger. Moreover, Microsoft scrambles to protect users from such thoughts. In handheld Pocket PC, there is one common problem - their operating system and applications represents a decrease of "compromise" version of their big sisters. Windows CE - it's not a real Windows, even if outwardly they look like. People always want to have all their devices to "talk" the same language, that they did. So Microsoft and assures everyone that the operating system tablet PC (called the Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition) allows you to work with the same programs as on a standard PC Windows.Microsoft and hardware manufacturers want to force users to think of the Tablet PC as their primary computer, rather than just a mobile assistant that could synchronize with your desktop PC. Maybe this is the ring of common sense, because quite attached to the tablet PC external keyboard and you get a full laptop. Preimage tablet PC - a sheet of paper, and the prototype stylus - a pen or pencil. It should be borne in mind that in the opinion of Microsoft, engaged in Tablet PC, the daily notes should be recorded, and their slogan - "Leave ink as ink". This means that if you write something on the board or paper record will remain exactly in the form in which you left it. Naturally, the tablet will be able to move everything in the print version, but do it immediately is not necessary. According to some analysts, one reason for the failure of Apple Newton was an automatic handwriting recognition. Device each time a user is writing something, and tried without delay to decode words. Therefore, the result was often very funny. Proposal "Meet client for lunch" (to meet customers for lunch) could well turn into a "Melt clown pun hunts" (pun melted clown). This could hardly have many like it, besides, of course, the poets - the experimenters. In the tablet PC all in another. The records are stored in their original form - with spelling errors, notes, drawings, etc. (The downside of this is the impossibility of carrying out the search - to find the correct sentence in the text have to watch it all). Opportunities stylus is beyond the means for drawing or records. In fact, it's digital ink that can be manipulated ad infinitum. For example, you can edit the ordinary printed text as if you were to use pen for taking notes on the printed document. With the Tablet and stylus, all changes will be made directly in the text.

Ten for one

So, ten PC manufacturers plan to produce tablet PC with specifications Microsoft, including NEC, Fujitsu, Toshiba, Compaq and Acer. Moreover, even though Microsoft makes such statements, the company still will not produce tablet PC itself. Bill Gates has long promised that he would not engage in "iron" business. Of course, he broke it in the case of the Xbox, but it is absolutely certain that the production of tablets will be avoided. Microsoft just sketched specs and gave a license to use original equipment manufacturers, designers and marketers. No one is announcing future price tablets, but according to some manufacturers, it will be about the same price as the average laptop. Tom Bernhard, director of marketing at Fujitsu, believes that the tablet PC - the next stage in the evolution of personal computers. According to him, laptops are very convenient for those businessmen who travel a lot, but some are useless in the "sedentary." With the Tablet PC can even work standing up, for example, when you stand in the queue. The first representative of the tablet PC will appear in the second half of this year. In March of 2001. Transmeta Corporation announced plans to develop with the Microsoft processor with low power consumption for tablets. Family of processors from Transmeta Crusoe slightly lower operating temperature than chip companies Intel, Motorola or AMD. Also, a high number of software vendors, including Adobe, Corel, and Autodesk, announced the development of new applications or special versions of existing for tablet PC. But there is a significant player who is absent among the producers of future tablets, probably, to the regret Microsoft. This is the world's largest PC manufacturer - a company Dell. According to its president, marketing research companies have shown that users do not approve tablet'ov. True, Dell is well known as a company, following the general trend in the industry, but not as an innovative company. Therefore, it is possible that, if the leadership of Dell sees the success of the first manufacturers of tablets, the company will join a number of them later.

Do they take the upper hand?

However, Dell has its own point of view. Indeed, since a bad keyboard or trackpad input information? Many people can not stand the stylus.Supporters of same tablet PC as an argument to give that a laptop is very inconvenient opening screen, which serves as a barrier when you use it during meetings, and that the constant clatter of the keyboard annoys people. According to them, tablet PC as innocuous as a piece of paper. Although in reality, far from it. Imagine the attention you attract to yourself by coming to the usual weekly meeting with the Tablet PC at your fingertips. But in any case, Microsoft and its partners are doing their work independently. Many companies, including Microsoft, over the past ten years, spent millions of dollars to create a successful model of tablet PC, but failed. The very first device, for example, GRiDPad (introduced in 1989), suffered a heavy, clunky design and a very low power. Even more elegant GRiD 2260, equipped with original drop-down keyboard (developed by the founder of Palm Pilot Jeffrey Hawkins), was unable to attract sufficient attention to survive. Therefore, business users do not want nothing to do with the tablets. They enjoy the notoriety. Microsoft is promising that today's tablet will be completely different. While one can only say that the batteries are much better than those who were ten years ago. Yes, and production technology displays varies with LCD (liquid crystal) on the OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode). Unlike LCD, which is necessary lighting display, obtained from the power source, OLED screens themselves generate their own light, so their work requires much less energy. In addition, RAM and hard disk drives today have a much greater volume. Another important feature of today's tablet PC is their ability to work with wireless internet. The question arises - who is more in need of such devices - users or computer manufacturers themselves? At present, the past experience the first strong decline in production since 1986, and naturally they are looking for ways out of it. Of course, maybe it's more and raise the level of PC sales, but the main cause of the decline likely is the fact that people are just happy with the existing systems and do not want to change them. Sources, Materials:

Shunyaev not put off till tomorrow

We bring to your attention the favorites fragments of curious article published in "The Secret of the firm." It tells about the history, present day and the prospects for development of new powerful players of the domestic market of mobile computers - the company Rover Computers. The above passages are devoted to our vision for Rover PDA business in Russia and their involvement in it. Full version of the article can be read here. "Most often, I sit and think up all sorts of ideas" - says the owner of the company Rover Computers Sergei Shunyaev. One such idea is his, about the beginning build notebooks under its own brand, has made the company a leader in this market. Now Mr Shunyaev wants to become the first in the segment of handheld computers, and then do the production of smartphones - a hybrid mobile phone and PDA. In general, the strategy of "first player" - this is his strategy. And so far it justifies itself. For information: the company Rover Computers enters production unit "Infomash" service unit "In-Service, six regional offices, East European and Baltic subsidiaries. Owner, number of employees which makes about 500 people, is its president, Sergei Shunyaev. Rover Computers turnover last year amounted to 5 billion rubles. Furthermore Rover Computers, Mr. Shunyaevu owned salon for sale Harley Davidson motorcycles and the company TCI, organizes concerts of groups working in the style of heavy metal. Range in Rover Computers are, above all, depending on which models offer a co-branders. Although the development of models of laptops and handheld computers the company takes a part - in the first case this occurs at the level of selecting the configuration of components in the second - at the choice of software. Rover Computers in this by a small department (of five), who reports to the Vice President of Production. Now the company is cooperating with five plants, but their number varies. "We focus here, rather than on the enterprise, and the model that it offers. Keep track of all the proposals, and if something suits us, come and say that that's the model we buy at such a price and in a certain amount, but for you it provides us a three-month exclusive on Russia and CIS countries - said Sergei Shunyaev .- Well, if the next model of the same manufacturer is not very good, we can give the time to cooperate and work with someone else. " Approximately every six months the company meet with partners in production, which show the new models, show what technologies emerged during this time from the leading manufacturers of filling »- Intel and Microsoft.

Great Expectations

Currently the product line of Rover Computers includes several items. Portable computers and monitors RoverBook RoverScan take up to 90% in the turnover of the company. Other products - desktops WindRover, handheld computers (PDAs) RoverPC, digital cameras RoverShot, multimedia projectors RoverLight and PC-cards RoverCard - gives a total of 10% of sales. The total turnover last year amounted to 5 billion rubles. The plans for this year - 40 percent growth. "Of course, the biggest successes we have achieved on laptops. But now, for instance, LCD monitors on the market, we still occupy about 10%, and this is a lot, considering that is dominated by Korean manufacturers Samsung and LG. Compete with them is very difficult, given their advertising budgets, - says marketing director, Andrei Andreev .- In the market of multimedia projectors, we enter the top ten producers. Now we focus on the promotion of PDAs and LCD monitors. PDA Rover Computers RoverPC to have begun to produce last year. According to the head direction PDAs companies Elena Simonova, Rover Computers plans to sell this year to 25 thousand "handhelds" and occupy about 25% of the market."We are not trying to win the consumer's only due to price factor. When purchasing such equipment people oriented including its cost and if it is significantly lower than the average for the market, there may be doubts about the quality, - says Ms. Simon .- Now, our "handhelds" cost from $ 300 to $ 370, at Western manufacturers - not much more expensive ($ 350-500). We believe that we can qualify for a substantial market share because we offer a higher level of Russification of these products than other manufacturers. " Oleg Kolesov, director of marketing DVM Group: «That course of action, which has selected Rover Computers, is very correct. Laptops are increasingly replacing the world's desktop computers, sales of "Pocket PC" grow although not as rapidly, but still growing. Market for LCD monitors in general is moving forward by leaps and bounds. " Mrs. Simon believes that a significant role in promoting new products on the market plays a service organization: "We have a technical support service, where users can contact in case of any problems with our computers, as well as client support service, where accepted the claim and wishes. In addition, there are service units "In-Service, which coordinates the work of 135 service centers in different cities of Russia and some CIS countries. By year-end number of such centers should be increased to 150.

Mental case

Sergei Shunyaev argues that initiated the beginning of production of a new product often turns out to be exactly it. "I generally spend the most time that I sit, come up with different ideas" - recognized Shunyaev. I must say that these ideas are concerned not only the computer business. Shunyaev - a man with a very extravagant interests. He is a fan of heavy metal musical genre and a great lover of motorcycles Harley Davidson. As aptly put it one of the employees Shunyaeva, people enjoy life in full. And, characteristically, all his hobbies, he turns into a business.