Games for Pocket PC and Smartphone: a review of the June novelties

Psychopaths - a favorite subject of Hollywood, infiltrated now and the display of our handheld. However, in contrast to the serious lockjaw dubious Hollywood beauties, here we are waiting for a humorous look at things. Nobody is going to load your thoughts on the topic of crazy places in society and their risk for the average American, wherever he lived. Hail saving sense of humor, friends. Especially nice and close that it comes from a Russian studio Handy Entertainment. In this issue - just two games from them: PsychoPath and Dreamway. Month, generally failed. Another game from PDAMill, this time the studio acted as a publisher, however, issue under its brand name has meant quality. Incidentally, in the continuation of the recently released PDAMill Arvale: Journey of Illusion. Fighting dragons is still going on! Only this time in the Artificer we earn on it. Read this article also explain the mysterious stories of the dancing hippo Crazy Jack-e, a talent that for some reason, rushed to the scattering of bombs. Unable to understand the vicissitudes of life that drove him to such a drastic change in the profile of activity, I asked about it at the director-founder of the studio. In addition, extreme racing Dreamway, puzzle Plexus and helicopter simulator Chopper Flight. Have a nice day. And smile, gentlemen!

PsychoPath 2. Beware of the Car!

Heavy armored door creaked open. Red-haired man of medium height wearing a white shirt and striped trousers he turned his head and nodded to the orderly at the door. He waved back huge ruchischey. "You have this one - he boomed a deep voice in farewell - easier out there on the loose. As the doctor ordered." Redhead cute smile and a confident gait he went to the car. Understood the bloody dawn. In the distance loomed the first pedestrians. On a plot of the game only coming out of the gate hospital, our hero back into her old ways and throws crush of pedestrians. The more moves, so he'd better. Nemostrya on krovozhany scenario, the game was done with humor. It all begins with early birds - old women with terrible tousled hair and string bags in their hands, funny scream "Ouch" at running. After them, there are punks with flame-red trim and the Iroquois chistyuli-businessmen and diplomats, hurrying to work. For the defenseless old ladies who are unable to escape from the crazy driver, led the way, our hand, we get 5 points for punks - 10 for business - 20. Recipe of the first stage - for 110 seconds "squeeze" of pedestrians at 1000 points. With each new stage, new actors and new obstacles. Thus, the second phase added skateboarders, shouting "Get out!" careening past (30 points), and on the third level lazily crawl to work road workers, poked around road barricades to slow down for a couple of seconds, the vehicle speed. So try to crush the workaholic before they begin active work. And on the next, the fourth stage, everything becomes much more difficult. By noon on the job beyond the notorious traffic police you with magical striped sticks. You can violate, abuse can drive without a license - is not prohibited, but not run - it, that's impossible. What hypocrisy! Blue cap will run after you on the road until you try to push even pedestrians. Important - not to collide with the same purpose, because then ... "Get out. Hands on the hood. Documents. Tak soooo. Unwell, I mean. Where I got a certificate of mental health problems? But will pass, comrade." Returning to the hospital involuntarily ask ourselves a classic question: "Why do old women killed?" On the quality of "psychopath with a big road" is one of the best games I tested this year. Firstly, the rarity of unusual, but neat, comfortable and attractively done the main menu - everything is intuitive and without unnecessary details, such as reassignment of functions of the buttons, so beloved by other developers, and the choice between OpenGL, Direct3D, and other opportunities, korobyaschih hearing. We only have four movements to the joystick, however, preferred to play a stylus.Beautiful funny characters with funny sounds. Incidentally, the audio portion of would like to mention separately, it is really good: the original musical accompaniment quite irritating and suitable topics, and cries of pedestrians forced smile. Passage. More points you can score if you keep the car at the top of the screen. Also, do not succumb to emotions and not chasing pedestrians escaped, only time will spend. Discount! For Russian users a special price - just $ 100 if paid through the system Yandex.Dengi and WebMoney. There are also ways to pay by credit card, through the Savings Bank, a bank or postal money order, but in these cases should contact the company for instructions. Incidentally, the company sent its observations on the passage (Tips & Tricks), you have a chance to get a gift certificate for $ 20. Warning. Program during installation for some reason sits in the directory Program Files / Microsoft ActiveSync.

Trio XScale

New Pocket PC with powerful Intel XScale processor already on store shelves and even Russian stores. While the windows adorned only HP iPaq 3970 - everything was clear. Here is a leader in which you want to navigate. But the leader did not stay alone. Next to the S600 there are "seven" BMW and Audi S8 - Toshiba e740, and Fujitsu-Siemens Pocket LOOX. Here is a comparative overview of three PDA-class high-end, make up the pride of the PDA market. Nowadays, of course. After all the processors for PDAs with a frequency of 1.2 GHz is not far off :-)

Packing

All three of the PDA is very high quality decorated. Solidly all, in my opinion, still iPaq - it inside plastic boxes, not boxes. And his papers packed in hard plastic case. In all three boxes all packed into individual bags, all neatly sealed and arranged into sections. Feel that the products quality and Vysk from solid brands. For example, with the same "budget" Casio BE-300 or frankly Korean Wincent 320 (with all due respect to him) just do not compare. What, indeed, expected - typewriter class High-End. In two - iPaq and the LOOX - to spare stylus included. At Toshiba itself, unfortunately, is not observed. This, however, perhaps the only difference in configuration. In addition to the "chute", all three CPC set postavkm standard - the cradle, power supply, thick-thick manual on good paper with good printing. In LOOX'a printing slightly lower quality, but also a thick book and pleasant. Noticed some strange thing: and a Toshiba e740, and Pocket LOOX power supplies consist of two parts, and look at both the twin brothers. On one side of the adapter and connector to the PDA, on the other - the usual fork. Wire as a result of long, but the adapter box, it turns out to be lying on the table that, in my opinion, somewhat unaesthetic, and even takes place. In iPaq'a standard PSU nasadochkoy to connect directly, bypassing the cradle. I ask myself the question: is it not possible to do in case the proper hole and abandon the adapter, as in all PDAs? Adapter, of course, remove the work-wear is not very big, but if he loses? In addition, the disc box with software and cheholchiki. And again in the minutiae Hewlett Packard barely wins. He has included corporate "jacket without a jacket, made famous in the municipality of 3800 - that is, cover that fits like a jacket protects the casing and screen, but does not take place. Cover the screen traditionally clear, so that the text alerts can also be seen without opening it. At Toshiba e740 "standard" black leather "envelope", and in general LOOX some Cloth monster with a strange clasp, which does not close, but still considerably larger size than the LOOX - PDA it aloud dangles. Such cases would fit belt clip, and it is not.

This would cover complete ...

But thank you for Fujitsu-Siemens, so it's a detachable from the cradle sync cable. Now the house can do "everything like everyone else, but in the way bulky cradle not to take without buying expensive accessories at the same time - to connect the PDA to the PC via the supplied cable. The only thing that smells like rubber, which is made from cable, somehow very intense. This dream drug abuser.

Appearance and ergonomics

For HP (formerly Compaq) iPaq, we all have been accustomed to. At HP 3900 standard housing the 38th series: time-tested, but the "forever young" and stylish design. According to this indicator Compaq was always ahead. About Design 38-series is said a lot, so that we can not repeat. Design of Toshiba I liked very much, although as it turned out later - the beauty is not important. Rigorous, but not brittle line, noble matt-silver-colored, polished letters TOSHIBA below the screen, an elegant black hull lines - classic beauty.Fujitsu-Siemens Pocket LOOX, on the contrary - the sample's modernist art. Asymmetric body, smooth, curved contours. This PDA is better than others to the arm and adapted to the "one-handed" management. About ergonomics iPaq also know everything. Use it in moderation it is convenient, although the button layout of delight and does not cause: too much stick and not a very good button on the recorder). The stylus is a new handheld remains the same. On first impression it seemed that the joystick has become softer, but then the feeling passed. Toshiba - sample frankly ill-placed buttons. The Power button is pressed while necessarily keeping the CPC in a case - and when taken out, and when the insert. And the record button finger falls under withdrawal machines from the cradle and set it there. As a result, the CCP, when it is absolutely not expect from him, and starts to record conversations of others. In an unusual place - on the left below - is the infrared port. The front panel of two indicators: they are included during charging and when enabled wireless data Wi-Fi. Battery cover is removed - not surprising, because as one of the main accessories Toshiba offers enhanced battery power. The joystick is small but very soft and comfortable. He has no fixed direction, as in iPaq. Use it - a pleasure. Plus standard Chetri buttons - three for a PIM-application and one for "HOME" (something like a quick menu plus a task switcher - its own development Toshiba). Speaker, as always, below the microphone on top. It is unusual that the slots for expansion cards are located nearby - on the top panel. And this despite the fact that the e740 - the thinnest model of the three! But how much fun you will when you try to insert a Compact Flash and fix the button-pusher! I will not tell you what to do. All written in the instructions, but those who did not read it, let pomuchayutsya I wonder :-) made hard reset - as a tiny switch on the bottom. The same "toggle is enabled, and Wi-Fi.

Left to right: LOOX, e740, iPaq 3970

LOOX, as I said, just nice to pick up, although his body does not look as solid as the other two (there is anodized, and the deep, plastic - it is simply plastic, painted). LOOX, moreover, is the easiest Pocket PC from the "present". The front panel keys are predictable - 4 PIM'a. Joystick in size almost like Toshiba (slightly less), and despite the fact that the course had more than the Toshiba, vyzyvet oshushenie inconvenience. Here, on the contrary, the microphone on top and bottom of the speaker, but that is an important cause. By LOOX can connect GSM / GPRS module and it will become a full-fledged phone. Naturally, with this arrangement speaker and microphone to speak better. Cover, covering the connector for this module, treacherous as the era of palace revolutions. She seems to be holding a "dead", prilagaesch more effort, and it finally flies off with a bang. Not only that we have to look for her, so even during the search for sure she broke in at least half. But no, alive and zhivehonka and without a scratch. Hard reset and wireless (in the case of the Pocket LOOX is Bluetooth), as well as on the e740, include hardware switches. In LOOX'e unusual that upravlyayushie keys are located at both ends. However, the "right" button is very conveniently located under the middle finger of his left hand. Place a familiar record button on the left is the start button "Main Menu" - utility, developed by the manufacturer. Expansion slots are available as usual - CF above, SD on the left. Dot soft reset hidden somewhere at the top of the rear panel.

Screen. Hardware.

Unconditionally prefer HP iPaq 3970. He only truly new type of screen - transflective.In some foreign surveys, wrote that LOOX and the same breed, but no - he had the same terrible "fluorescent lamp" on the screen, like the older models. The result is evident - the iPaq screen is much brighter and more contrast than the other two models. And LOOX, by the way, the screen is generally very dark and dismal. In addition, a new type of screen is much better behaved in the sun - everything is visible, nothing is twofold. Just feast for the eyes, not the screen. Somehow using it in a completely dark room, I found the way to the switch is safely behind all the chairs and tables. No halo, of course, but as a flashlight amiss. And yet (a pebble in LOOX'a) - the screen had some cotton. Backlight is switched on only when you turn somewhere in a second, when you turn off the image as it "crawls" on the screen - slowly and reluctantly. In addition, the Pocket LOOX noticeably tighter pressure-sensitive layer on the screen. To press the button, or write something must exert more effort than the other two participants tested, and indeed, more than on any PDA, with whom I dealt. However, you get used to it quickly and do not feel any discomfort. On the effectiveness of Transcriber'a (programs for handwriting recognition), increased stiffness has no effect. Otherwise, the "iron" characteristics, three PDAs - almost twins. Processors Intel XScale 400 MHz, 32 MB Flash ROM for e740 and Pocket LOOX and 48 MB for HP iPaq 3970, from which the user is allocated already 22, however, part of the program is busy Nevo. 64 MB ROM, two expansion slots (Compact Flash and Secure Digital) for e740 and Pocket LOOX and only one - Secure Digital - from HP. That's what results it leads to:

			iPaq 3970	Toshiba e740	Pocket LOOX
CPU		Floating Point	12.66	12.65	12.62
		Integer	26.93	26.96	26.86
Graphics	Bitmaps	BitBit	25.99	72.07	47.12
		StrechBit	0.79	0.25	0.94
	Filled	Ellipse	0.51	1.00	2.59
		Rectangle	2.09	5.01	4.16
		Rounded Rectangle	0.59	0.80	2.11
Memory		Allocation	11.16	11.48	11.81
		Fill	0.93	0.95	0.91
		Move	0.37	0.39	0.36
Text			3.20	1.19	3.78

What did the tests: Floating Point - floating-point operations are needed in high-precision mathematical calculations, which, for example, can be used when working with spreadsheets in Excel. Integer - integer calculations are used for basic arithmetic operations where there are no fractions. Bitmaps - BitBit - drawing a bitmap (BMP) image while preserving the original image size. Bitmaps - StretchBit - rendering bitmap image by resizing the original image. Ellipse - from top left to bottom right and fills an ellipse is drawn in red, green and blue. Rectangle - same with the rectangle. Rounded Rectangle - again the same thing, but a rectangle with rounded edges. Allocation shows how fast the Pocket PC can be booked and osobozhdat memory. This operation is a variety of applications and perform in their daily work more often. Fill - a block of memory (500 Kbytes) is filled with data.Fill rate shows how fast your computer will run. Move - the transfer of a block of memory. Text - shows how fast the text is drawn on the screen. Note that the use of ClearType font smoothing slightly reduces the speed of rendering. It is difficult to deduce some regularity. And anyway, in my opinion, these tests do not otrazhayutrealnoe things (such as old CPUs Intel StrongARM XScale ahead for the two indicators are two to three times). But, once tested ... Perhaps, Fujitsu-Siemens Pocket LOOX slightly overplays the rest of the schedule, but worse than working in the tests where the load loditsya exclusively on the processor. Hewett Packard iPaq does not win in any setting, but in practice (by subjective feelings) works pozadornee others. Anyway, not exactly slow. In general, the test to clear my conscience - he did not in fact establish.

Work experience. Multimedia

Now these very subjective feelings. Operating system works much the same as on the StrongARM. Open menus, dialog boxes pop up message poyayavlyayutsya except for a paltry fraction of a second faster. The difference is noticeable only in transactions where you really need the power of the processor. For example, texts and pictures of a large amount of open times and a half faster than the StrongARM, and the toy Interstellar Flames Demo - three-dimensional space simulator - noticeably more frames per second than before. By the way, Pocket LOOX in this toy somehow retarding ... In general, multimedia capabilities with a new processor soon widened, but the "usability" (pleasure use) hardly increased enough to justify the difference in the $ 100 (for example, the difference iPaq'ami between different series). On the other hand, for sure, and Microsoft itself said this, there will be work on the "fit" the OS for the new processor, so that we can expect an update, which will certainly appear, and wait until "it all will fly." But the multimedia capabilities at the expense of the new processor, perhaps, improved. MPEG video played fine. Frames 15-17 (maybe more) in second test video just gave out on all the machines. For one thing: Toshiba e740 with a standard version of Pocket TV (a program for viewing MPEG) slows down, it needs a revised Enterprise Edition. This, incidentally, is written in the description of the program Pocket TV. Set up and just heart rejoices at the typewriter. Monsters from "Monsters, Inc." (trailer) jump very perky, not faltered. And anyway, if you have enough memory, you can udovlstviem and without stress posmotert a movie, good DivX also works well on level. " The sound quality of all three machines is approximately the same. Actually, not their job - to work high-end portable players. Again, I will give preference to iPaq 3970, but this is mainly due to the built-in utility Compaq Audio (should probably be renamed to its HP Audio :-), which allows to add "bass and treble. In the metro to listen well. However, with programs like WithMP3 with built-in EQ, gain iPaq, perhaps even become extremely speculative. All three PDAs are equipped with the wireless transmission of data, but different. Bluetooth in the iPaq 3970 Pocket LOOX and works flawlessly. Machines have found each other, found astolny PC connected Bluetooth-transmitter, all friends with each other (ie form a pair of devices that will enable the exchange of information), and safely exchange files and contacts, and synchronize with your desktop PC. Wi-Fi (802.11b), built-in Toshiba, behaved not as great. PDA and desktop PC saw each other, e740 ping (ie "was"), but Active Sync and not earned. Already appeared was a green glow and whirling already heard the call of the sound, but the connection broke. Nothing to do with this trouble was not possible. True, we had only one Wi-Fi transmitter, so it is unlikely the result can be considered final. Multimedia and wireless communications have helped to solve one of the most important issue - the "survivability" PDA.I decided not to write that one PDA battery such a capacity, but the other half as much, then it is cooler. Instead, it had a very simple test - Playing Pocket TV to the endless repetition of running a movie trailer "Monsters Inc.", the backlight turned to maximum, the sound too. Plus, each PDA is working its wireless transmitter - Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Who will last longer in such extreme conditions? Toshiba e740 was terrible panikershey. The first report on low battery (Battery is low) appeared within 58 minutes after the start of the test, although the battery was still half a charge. Red alert (battery VERY low) appeared on 11% zazryada when passed two small hours. Finally, after 2 hours 16 minutes in batreya discharged to 1% and Toshiba refused to be included. Battery LOOX behaved a bit better (that, in general it is not surprising - Bluetooth "eats" less than 802.11b). He also showed a red light for further work in 2 hours and 2 minutes of testing time, but this prb in the battery was still a fifth of the charge. In 2 hours and 10 minutes remaining only 14%, and 2.28 (9% already charge!) Machine is no longer included.

The brightness of the screen - the maximum

But the iPaq 3970 the first signs of trouble began to show almost two hours - 1.48 after the test, he warned that the battery remaining 40% charge. In the 2.14 charge was still 25% and car behaved very bravely. Finally disconnected it is only 3.15 with a 5% charge on the credit side. iPaq - deserved winner of the test.

Software

Any software can find, download and install it yourself, so, in my opinion, the bonus program - very priyanaya, but it's so small thing. In this connection, I'll be brief. The iPaq 3970 is more powerful infrared than in the previous series, so you can send a signal to several meters. Naturally, this can be used to prvratit PDA into a remote control. What program and is engaged Nevo - a program to control household appliances. Program is a smart (she has a heap-based settings for different models of consumer electronics), and students - you can add your own settings. Pretty easy to use interface - in one box all the equipment of the room. With the technique Pamasonic and Sony (TV, stereo and VCR) has worked flawlessly. In addition, the iPaq is integrated image viewer. It works quite quickly, but there thumbnail'ov (small images for preview), so voting for third-party products. For example, Resco Piture Viewer. Although, of course, free of charge greatly increases the appeal of a standard browser.

Nevo

In the Toshiba e740 from innovations is a page HOME (see above). Vesh not very interesting, because it is not. In the Pocket LOOX is a separate button to open the menu his own, Fujitsu-Siemens'ovskoy development. There are shortcuts to all the standard programs, as well as fairly easy and fast task switcher. All programs are "scattered" across categories. Pocket PlugFree - Utility for Bluetooth. More functional, but less comfortable than on the iPaq.

Quick menu LOOX

Total

Do not want to make a conclusion in favor of one of the three participants. All three - remarkable device, the work that brought great pleasure. Everyone has a lot of pros, each - a minor flaw that almost did not reduce the overall attractiveness. However, in the Class High-End, device costing more than $ 650, you could avoid these disadvantages. About myself I can say that the work (and after it :-) I use Hewlett Packard iPaq 3970.On its side the name, quality, great screen, nice trifles in the form of additional software. iPaq - the best selling Pocket PC brand in Europe and the USA. However, it is only personal opinion and does not pull on the council. For example, many lack the slot Compact Flash - a big disadvantage. Yes, and design LOOX'a, for example, objectively nicer. Compare, choose! The authors, translation:

Soon on the displays of the country!

"Vrrrrummmmm! - Urchat automobile engines. "Pibib! - Herald the approach signals. Game artists are obviously going through a period that can be called a "car": judging by the number of upcoming races, soon we will have the dominance of bagels, thick exhaust emissions from cars and adrenaline of the pancreas. Nevertheless, it is not sad: all games are different both in plot and in execution and functionality. Here the famous Need for Speed, and colorful 3D Speed ​​City, and gambling Karnaaj Racing. Stories this week forced obliznutsya: amazing story of the Order of the Templars, enveloped in mystery and overgrown with legends, continuing the story of the epic world of Arvale, and gambling games, puzzles, contests at the speed of reaction ... Hurray! The market is gradually losing its boring monotony! Read and see ... soon on display!

Need for Speed. Detective with Amazon.com

It all started with a single page. Well-known online retailer Amazon.com publishes almost a blank page for the forthcoming product with the name of "Need for Speed ​​(Pocket PC)". Page, of course, immediately found the ubiquitous gamers in search of news wanders into the remotest corners of the Internet. About this error message on the forums PocketGamer.org. After that, it is found that along with the version of the game for mobile phones, according to spaces of a computer network wander as long anticipated race for Pocket PC is under development. And while managed to find a link to a file and even learn from other gamers that the game works perfectly on the models of Dell Axim x50v and Jornada, the file itself, unfortunately, failed to download. According to reviews in the same forum, the game is inferior to the original mainly on the quality of texture processing. Hopefully.

Palm Tungsten T - the first model of Palm OS 5 on Palm

Palm Tungsten T has just officially launched today by the developer, and we still, unfortunately, has not arrived. However, foreign colleagues have already managed to feel a long-awaited innovation, so we use the information portal infoSync, to acquaint our readers with a new Palm'om as soon as possible. It's no joke - the new operating system in action! When new gets into our greedy clutches, be sure to share personal experiences. Thus, the ice was broken! Anticipated for several years now the transition from the Palm OS platform to Motorola DragonBall processor chips ARM has finally begun. Now the process enters the first stage - optimization of the "lower half" (the operating system kernel) to work with the new hardware. The second phase, the optimized "top" (ie, custom applications) will appear in OS versions 5.5 and 6. However, now companies spare no effort to design and manufacture of new devices, whose owners will feel the full benefits of the new hardware. And despite the fact that Palm is not the first litsenzentom new operating system, which produced machines for Palm OS 5 (it ahead of Sony), Tungsten T for some settings is "unique in its kind." This is a very nice little device, and saying "small", we are fully responsible for his words.

Iron

Usually, support for virtual domains for handwriting recognition following arguments: 90% of the time working with the device the user carries, receiving or reading the information. At this time, he does not need to write anything. So why waste valuable screen space on a fixed area for Graffiti?. Palm decided to answer this question differently: "Why do spend on this place in the CCP?". The most noticeable feature of the new Palm - sliding front panel, the solution used in Palm'ah the first time. The handheld "extendible" in two, the lower portion of the device in its closed position covers the area of ​​Graffiti, and in the open gives the user access to the usual small screen. In the compact case (closed) Palm has dimensions of 101x77x15 mm and it is the shortest device based on Palm OS is not today. In the unfolded state machine is 20 millimeters long. In this case, the Tungsten T for height and width like a typical PDA with Palm OS. In this case, it is slightly thicker than the Palm V. The shell itself is made of dark gray brushed metal. To touch the whole design seems pretty robust, but apparently it all looks very elegant. Well, it is not surprising, given past successes Palm to create attractive external devices: Palm V, m500, Palm Zire. Unfortunately, all this metal makes the device somewhat more difficult than it might seem by eye, the machine weighs 158 grams - almost the upper limit of weight that is comparable to Sony CLIE PEG-NR70v. Inside this lovely shell hides compatible with ARM architecture processor Texas Instruments OMAP1510, running at 144 MHz. In the OMAP1510 processor is also integrated DSP (Digital Signal Processor), who takes on work with multimedia applications, in particular, encodes and decodes the audio. Thus, Tungsten T can play digital audio on how to use the built-in speaker or through the supplied headphones. The sound quality is much higher than in any other Palm'e or HandEra. Supports MIDI and WAV. The processor is also fully capable of playing mp3-files, but no bundled applications to play this file format. Palm claims that the company is working with Real Media to create MP3-player, which after a while you can download for free.Unfortunately, the sound quality is lower than the new Sony Clie, which have a built-in music FM-synth. The sound of Tungsten deeper than Sony, but Clie take purity and clarity. Another innovation of Palm Tungsten T - built-in Bluetooth 1.1. The software allows you to immediately, without additional equipment to connect to the Internet via GSM / GPRS mobile phone with Bluetooth. It also supports synchronization via Bluetooth, and wireless printing with some models of printers. Naturally, Bluetooth can share contacts and notes. In Tungsten 8 MB ROM and 16 MB of RAM (of which the user is available 14). Finally, Palm moved to high-resolution screen, which used the API (application programming interface) High-Density screen from the company PalmSource. In particular, the Tungsten T uses display 320x320 pixels that supports 16-bit color (65,536 colors). The colors are bright and saturated, light - a real flashlight. First, we set it at 33% brightness, and decided that this was the maximum. And at this maximum Tungsten T noticeably brighter than the CLIE PEG-NR70v, but also heats more. Tioplenky this! In general, this is the best screen out those that we saw on Palm'ah. Another innovation: the traditional buttons "up-down" has been replaced five-way joystick, as on many Pocket PC. The center button serves as a "Select". Buttons four main applications are quite small, but even they can be quite comfortable playing with toys. Power button is located on the left-top, it's pretty tight - just to comfortably push it deliberately, and to avoid accidental clicks. On the left side headphone jack and power button voice recorder - it must be used and the recording starts (in the right location at the front of the microphone). Of the expansion slots are only SDIO - for cards Secure Digital / MultiMediaCard and peripheral devices in this form factor. In addition, there is a standard Palm Universal Connector. Since it can run all the old jackets extension (either open or closed machine), so only need new drivers for the new operating system. Tungsten T runs on lithium-polymer batteries. According to Palm, Inc., Under normal conditions (ie, when turned off Bluetooth, which "otzhiraet" a lot of energy), the new product should work without charging roughly the same as Palm m515. To test was conducted the test - running graphical "demo" AtomSmash, disabled Bluetooth, lights turned on at full power (as already mentioned, in most cases, this brightness is simply not needed). As a result, Tungsten shut down after 3 hours 24 minutes. And this despite the fact that the backlight automatically "prituhla" when the battery began to weaken. Recharge took an hour and a half or two (more precisely is difficult because there is no indicator - rather, it is, small and green, but it does not change its state when the device is fully charged). The stylus is shorter than in other Palm'ah (same, it just would not fit in the device when it is folded). But if you click on his cap, he lengthened about a centimeter. Stylus itself is quite a nice, metal, plastic-ending. Tip, incidentally, very thin, so that it can be used for rebooting the device. The set comes transparent protective cover of the screen, which slotted hole for the joystick. Thus, work with the Tungsten is possible, and without removing the cover, good through it all clearly visible. Cut out holes for buttons, application buttons.

System

Tungsten T - the first device on Palm OS 5 on Palm. However, at first glance, from a user perspective, anyway, the new OS differs little from the fourth version. But, and this is visible to the naked eye, it works much faster. Much of the transformation lies deep beneath the user interface and should worry only developers. In fact, the system does not appear this multi-tasking or multi-threading, but the protection of applications, at least, improved.For example, if a program tries to access the system data to which OS 5 turn bans, but have been available in OS 4, the system will display a warning message, and then either allow the program to continue or close it, not "damaged" by the other processes. This is, perhaps, better than the message "Fatal Alert", terrorizing users of earlier versions of Palm OS. In addition, as previously assumed, are not working "hacks" - a small utility, working with system components and alter their function. But the new API for controlling the display of high resolution of PalmSource is very intelligent and, for example, he adapts the old program under a new screen size. Palm also included a set of fonts specifically to the text look better on high-resolution display - the letters are thicker than on the new Clie. The eye looks nicer. Discovered and a new panel Preferences, divided into three categories (one of which is for third-party programs). Here, all the usual settings plus a few new ones - to control and Bluetooth connection with a cell phone. Here you can set up a "binding" of hardware buttons (eg button, which earlier in the Graffiti caused calculator to anything not tied and waiting for the user to assign the application). Changed and the panel sound settings that the user has the ability to specify more parameters, including the management clock alarms. This, incidentally, can be not only the usual sound, but the LED-blinking LED on the front panel or vibrate mode. Last, the feelings, the same as on machines series m500. Importantly, what to expect from the new processors ARM - the general increase speed. However, PalmSource for quite some time chastened optimists: "Everything will depend on the program. Annex, specially written for ARM will work much faster, the same old programs will be hampered by the need to translate the instructions DragonBall processor into a form understandable ARM'u. Well, PIM-application (built, like the address book and calendar) to recall just instantly. AtomSmash, which is pretty much load on the hardware, worked about as a 33-MHz Sony CLIE PEG-N610c, but more slowly than in the more modern 66-megahertz typewriters, nevertheless it is quite possible to play. Zap! 2016 also worked with quite a reasonable rate. In order to make the tests a bit more objective, was set WordSmith 2.2 (on the Tungsten T, CLIE N610c c 33 MHz and CLIE NR70v to 66 MHz). Was then prepared a Word document of 5000 words (without errors), and on machines was run spell check - who is faster than its finish. In N610c, it took 693 seconds, NR70v spent 389 seconds, and Tungsten T 387. It's 7.21, 12.85 and 12.91 words per second, respectively. Well, this confirms the assumption PalmSource that most of the applications, "third party" on the new Palm OS 5 will operate in much the same as the old DragonBall 66 MHz. Program is specifically optimized for the new hardware is much faster. For example, Palm says that the company is developing a version of Kinoma video player specifically for the Tungsten T, and available at the moment, "beta" easily reproduced at 30 frames per second.

Additional programs

With old programs, we understand, but a special attraction gives Tungsten T Applications, designed specifically for him. In the ROM, according to tradition, recorded only necessary PIM-application. They are little changed compared with the previous OS version, except that he worked on the Palm so that they have better used the possibility of navigation joystick. In general, Palm Tungsten T - the most convenient model for Palm OS to manage with one hand. For example, using a joystick, not pushing the device itself, and not even opening the protective cover, you can find the desired entry in the contacts list and make a mobile phone with Bluetooth call the number you want. Other PIM-programs can also be controlled with a joystick. As already mentioned, is placed in ROM and software for Tungsten T as a voice recorder. They also can be controlled with one hand, although there is an algorithm conceived not as well as in other embedded software. Entries are saved in WAV (internal memory or card), you can listen directly on the machine or transferred to a desktop computer.In addition, such a record can be one-time use as a sound alarm. But the most interesting is one of the two discs supplied with the Tungsten T - there are half a dozen third-party programs (part of - in the full version, with some restrictions). Surprisingly, in the Tungsten T does not use the browser Net Front, developed by PalmSource and Access Systems America, which hodilo so many rumors. Stead Palm offers its own browser Web Pro, developed together with the company Novarra. All traffic passes through a proxy server that Palm provides free to all users. Proxy, by the way, translates and compresses data to save valuable paid traffic in GPRS or 1xRTT. The browser supports the latest standards including HTML 4.0, XHTML 1.0, cHTML (iMode), CSS 1, Javascript 1.5 and WML 1.2. In addition, the CD can be found SMS client for sending short text messages via cell phone is connected, a simple WAP-Browser, Phone Dialer - program to dial phone numbers, and VersaMail - a new client for e-mail. VersaMail supports synchronization messages via HotSync, can work simultaneously with multiple accounts via POP or IMAP. It also has several predefined settings for popular email providers (Yahoo!, NetZero, EarthLink). The program can convert embedded Microsoft Office documents into a format DataViz Documents To Go. Utility Phone Link simplifies the setup of Internet connections via cell phone. It contains ready-made options for working with U.S. mobile operators standard GSM. In the European version, obviously, will be setting the operators of the Old World. BlueChat BlueBoard and intended for communication between the two Tungsten'ami by Bluetooth - a BlueBoard can even be together at the same time draw on the same "sheet of paper" that is simultaneously edit the same picture. An important addition to work with office documents - Documents To Go Professional Edition.

Conclusion

In general, Tungsten T, the first Palm on an ARM, produces a very favorable impression. He has a great design, very nice thought out navigational joystick, and general control system with one hand. Excellent solution appears and telescopic stylus. Extension housing - is also the original deal, but many users probably closer to the field of virtual Graffiti. In this case, a definite plus - a big screen at a more compact overall device. Attractive to buyers would be built-in Bluetooth and a "master" set of telephone connection. On the other hand, a very frustrating lack of built-in player, mp3 (even given that such promises in the future), limited infrared (traditional 20-30 inches). And indeed on multimedia Tungsten T, although superior to other Palm'y, still loses the new Sony Clie. Machine is already possible to buy the company's website for $ 499. Sources, Materials:

Games for Pocket PC and Smartphone: a review of the July novelties

In the 113-m the year of our great storyteller John Ronald Tolkien Ruella games for handheld epic content with dragons, elves, ghosts, elves and brave brave reached its climax. Year 2005 is the already marked by the appearance Arvale: Journey of Illusion, a favorite of many, but in July there was another game of role-playing genre. Ancient Evil is made ​​specifically for handheld computers and done, it should be noted, is fine. The emergence of such games - with thought-out plot, not a hasty muhlyazha designed to "stake out a place in the market, made carefully and with passion - always happy. Moreover, I wonder what appeared electronic applications to the desktop versions of role-playing games. Starting with a description reading Treasure Roller, in search of an explanation, I soon met with great interest the history of Dungeons and Dragons. It turns out a lot of users still prefer a desktop computer version of the game, in fact, it even recommends psychologists to develop imagination, and therapists are using it in their practice. July of last year was quite sluggish. Only the rare company that produced something interesting, while in 2005 the studio working just Stakhanov pace. Ancient Evil, along with another game released as PDAMill. Joker's Quest arcade puzzle lovers. Quite unexpectedly and spontaneously on the PDA was breaking a whole galaxy of Sudoku - puzzles, as we now say, "awakened famous." Has always been interesting to track the path of popularity of such games. Also - the old pirate entertainment in the form of dice (Dicey), racking fire fighting (Fire Squad), the elements of the Egyptian (Egyptian Prophecy) and Roman history (Pixelus) and much more. Read! That is, I wanted to say, play!

Ancient Evil. Best game of the month.

Kingdom Olindsiya was small. Its inhabitants knew each other quite often and loved to meet in taverns and discuss the most incredible news. Along with many rumors, without which it can not do either one, not even the Magic Kingdom, a favorite topic of conversation had terrible stories about the Underground. According to legend, he created the demigods, the great elder, for a long sleep after creating the world. They said that the dream of the Great guard never sleep ghosts. Go there, none of the residents of the glorious kingdom did not dare, and prisochinit Olindsii in love, so that mythical place overgrown with each passing year new chilling details. That is why the ad wizard Alaric's decision to go to Pyatilese in most of which was hidden dungeon, it was greeted with such trepidation. His decision was discussed by all - those who suffered, who joked and had fun, but the most gambling argued and fought for a mortgage. In a given day, he went on a journey, but returned empty after a week or a month or a year. Passion in Olindsii subsided, and numerous stories, writes inventive people, Alaric made a legendary figure, part epic about a terrible dungeon ... The return of Alaric's thirty years later exploded the entire kingdom. Everyone was talking about his return, but only few have seen him come out of the woods and went to his castle, and argued that the magician is not old or a year. All the gossips have been forgotten, only discussing all that has happened to Alaric in Pyatilese. Sam the magician does not give itself felt only light in the windows of an old castle testified about his return. Finally, one morning a messenger read on the main square of its announcement. Alaric promised 10,000 gold to anyone who penetrates into a dungeon, will produce mysterious secret magician and return alive. Go to the forest once stretched brave men - warriors and magicians, as well as rogues, vagabonds and swindlers (without which it also does not do any one thing, even the Magic Kingdom). One after another they disappeared in the thicket Pyatilesya and cold dungeon. One after another, leaving all brave men and heroes. Years went by, one generation after another, but still none of the deceased for the mysterious secrets did not come back and still not getting old Alaric. He only raised the amount of compensation - first to 20 thousand, then to 50,000. Fear of the Dungeons intensified to the point that talk about him no longer, sometimes for only whispered to the other "news". All this went on until, until, finally, did not appear first, returning from the cave alive - Dzhetraal.An experienced soldier, he disappeared a week - prostrate and bleeding, he was found in Pyatilese. Compensation was paid and he instantly gained fame national hero. Huge crowds gathered to hear his stories about the Underground, but he always remained silent, and eventually began to avoid donnybrook. A few months later he died suddenly. His lamented all korolestvo and even Alaric first left his castle to spend the Hero on his last journey. Nevertheless, at the end of mourning Alaric announced that his reward still stands, but new braves began to return from the woods with me half way, arguing that the specter haunting the woods in Dzhetraalya warning about the imminent destruction of the kingdom and stop calling Alaric and not to give The Curse of the Elders happen. True, it stopped far from all. Your character, in particular, is also not timid. And a couple of thousand it will not interfere: recently paid a fee for their help in the battle with the road robbers gradually comes to an end ... As in any roleplaying game, you decide who you are - a stern warrior, not sparkling mind, but a bold and clever, wise if the magician who has knowledge of alchemy, a good forester, who knows all the herbs and precision hunter, shoot slip from the bow, or a clever and cunning thief lurking in the shadows, and a wave of spikes to open any lock. You can also choose their appearance, and particularly note the work of studio artists who created a wonderful set of characters. In general, a brilliant game graphics, incredible traced catacombs, fine details, extremely good interface that does not pose any difficulty. The only place where I had a hitch - the level of magic spells. And then, even a cursory acquaintance with well-prepared documentation immediately solved all my doubts. By the way, read the documentation is strongly recommended. Play will obviously be more interesting. Careful management. You can manage both stylus and buttons, although the joystick should be used: as a horizontal orientation of the game, movement function, respectively redistributed. For example, pressing the left (which is in a horizontal orientation is pressing up) will lead to forward movement and the right (down in horizontal orientation) - Back, which, however, it is logical. In managing the stylus rather identify pressing the point to which our hero will run at a breakneck pace. The very first room, in which we find ourselves, is the burial place of boxes, for some reason, calling for silence (probably out of respect for the deceased). It is quite possible, however, that this is the rest are the same great elder. In the corner of the room gleams golden, this is the first object that we will pick up. We run up and click into which arose in the upper right corner of the image - here it is, our first production. Clicking on the button with the English "i" will allow you to dress and equip your hero. The button with the knot - the key to magical spells. The toolbar at the bottom of the screen you will also find buttons Use (hand with a scroll) and Drop (empty hand) that will allow you to use your existing inventory and release wallet of unnecessary things (I, for example, just in case ponabral bones of their victims, so that the rattling of bones in a bag could be heard for two rooms). And finally, the color of pearls in the mouth of a snake show which mode you are: red - you are in the exploration and combat, blue - the color of magic. In your field of vision is only one room - just like in real life, until you open the door, you will not know that behind it. Moreover, the retreat back into the room and slamming the door behind us to help you escape from attacking in large numbers of monsters.Have to walk in the flickering light of torches, and in order to find the road in the darkness, in which submerged some corridors cold dungeons, it will be enough to light the torches, selected on the road. By the way, beware, the walls are hidden secret doors. Perhaps it is there something you are looking for. Although you do not yet know what you're looking for, right? Artists Pocket PC Studios have done an amazing job. The flickering light and beautifully designed atmosphere cold Dungeons strewn reminder of previous unsuccessful brave, forever remaining in the cold basement. Would like to mention unusual, a very simple introduction, telling about the history - it is done in plain text, decorated with drawings of demi-gods and ghosts like medieval engravings. No one dared to do it with such ease to them. Great music and sounds: the creaking door, the sound of mating damask swords, wailing ghosts and groans of the wounded ... This role-playing game, a worthy successor to celebrities Dungeon & Dragons, Diablo, and Might & Magic, developed (and worked fine) for PDAs. Undoubtedly, this is a game of the month.

Wireless PDA Tungsten W: yo in snuffbox

Here and waited - Palm OS 5.0 and the first computers based on the new operating system became a reality. Official presentation of Palm Tungsten T and Tungsten W had to hard for us, citizens of Russia, today. That's why the news a few themselves scarce, receded into the background ... Hopefully, we have experienced a nightmare will never happen again. And the news of the release of new computers will again be the main key ... the emergence of new Palm `s long-awaited and eagerly. Palm OS 5.0 originally was going to live down the list of "computer" events of the year ... Actually, on the balance of power on the PDA market fifth version of the Palm OS has affected even before its release (which, incidentally, and confirmed the significance of the event). On sale was a whole line of PDAs from Sony at very attractive prices. And recently we saw and the first family of cheap computers Pocket PC. Competitors are clearly preparing for the release of Tungsten. On the PDA market has become very crowded. However, the sensation, if any, expected with the advent of "home" machines based on Palm OS 5.0, has not happened. On the contrary, there is even some disappointment, because one of the new Palm `s - Tungsten W, which will be discussed in this review - running a modified Palm OS 4.1.1. What is it? Operating system so the cheese that programmers simply do not have time to finish patching holes? Or is it a conscious move - "otest" piece of cake at his Handspring communicators Treo, and then the vacated space to release a flock of new communicators under the brand name Palm? In any case - is unclear ... New Palm `s family Tungsten - are computers with color screens, high resolution 320x320 pixels which have already become standard for the handheld Sony. The backlight turns off a reflective, data entry, touch. In the older Tungsten T models use a new processor family of ARM processor with a clock frequency of 144 megahertz (expected seems to be 175). In proprietary specifications indicated processor model - Texas Instruments OMAP 1510. Innovations, and hardware and software, pretty much. To equip the Palm is getting closer to the family of computers Pocket PC. This means that the handheld machines are becoming a universal tool for "all occasions" and become completely previously unknown qualities, such as wireless LAN terminal. For older iPaq models with integrated Bluetooth module is no longer news. But that just like that, en masse, claiming to be the industry standard - it should agree that something ... soon, very soon, Bluetooth (and, presumably, competing with wireless adapters) will become mandatory membership of any PDA - if producers wish to commercial success their computers. It also is about the massive family handheld machines, rather than the rare exotics. Bluetooth module integrated into both new models Tungsten, as, indeed, and infrared communications port and Universal Connector (for connecting different peripherals and synchronization cable), and a slot for flash memory cards SD / MMC. And in a model of T (improved by the application of the new operating system), and in the model W in some way to change the organization of internal memory and Palm `. The amount of memory declared in 16 megabytes, but there comes a clause that user data is allocated only 14 MB. I wonder ... And it's not all. The presence of all computers built-in microphone and headphone jacks mean multimedia orientation of new Palm `s. The fact that we waited so long, it becomes a reality - Palm `s learned to" sing "(alas, is fully valid only for the Tungsten T). As well as recording sound and serve as a digital voice recorder. Very interesting design of the case seemed to me Palm Tungsten T. The first and most significant - the case folding. The lower part is shifted vertically in the closed position concealing the region Graffiti. This reduces the "hiking" the size of a computer due to under-utilized in the normal conditions of the machine. As a result, Tungsten T can be called one of the most compact handheld computers from all presently released.

Senior Model Tungsten T

Another innovation - the application instead of the usual five-way navigation keys large navigation buttons. Approximately the same button-joystick is used in computers and Pocket PC, it should be noted, fully justified. With regard to software innovations, it is, above all, the operating system itself in the Tungsten T. Evaluate all of its dignity, we still have. In the meantime, I note that the main indicators Palm OS 5.0 is much closer to its predecessor, Palm OS 4.1, than for Windows CE. That is, no special multimedia heights wait still do not have to - is unlikely we will get something more than we have been in the Pocket PC (all the same processor at the Tungsten T is not so hot what a rocket). Another thing - what we generally expect from Palm OS 5.0? CPU power, enough for trouble-free decoding MPEG4 - but this still is not known. Effective work with MP3, so with the help of Palm `and you can listen to music - it can and typewriter Sony, working with the previous version of the operating system. Functions of the wireless communicator ... Here maker Palm, and really made a real breakthrough. From now on any computer Tungsten can be paired with a cell phone having a built-in or externally attached module Bluetooth. It seems that the scope of the CCP is expanding. Small machine has outgrown the stage of an optional digital toys.

The second player - Tungsten W

Palm Tungsten T - is a "large caliber" because it is the model T is designed to attract the attention of potential buyers, enacting agony of choosing between Sony multimedia computers and typewriters conservative handheld Palm. It is clear that many interested users tend toward the Palm `but at least because the original looks like any respectable, even the most perfect, but - repeat ... It kinda purpose of the second model Tungsten W, presented almost simultaneously with the model T.

Wireless Tungsten W

At first glance at this little masterpiece arises sudden thought - we see a color Treo! Computers competitors are very similar not only in appearance but also in many respects. They, in particular, used a modification (a Tungsten W, of course, newer), the previous version of Palm OS. And it is very strange - all waiting for Palm's new models with the new operating system. There is even some confusion - the same name, model, Tungsten, a very similar look and feel of your furnishing, and suddenly a different program filling.

This Treo 270: Spot the difference!

True, the situation with the Tungsten W is still unclear. The company about the operating system that is installed in the model W, silent. Kin-Palm `the site has information about what this machine is released for a special (telephone?) Edition of the old Palm OS - version 4.1.1. But as there was no certainty and no. Have to wait several days - until any official information or the first practical reviews of new computers. What attracts you to the Tungsten W in the first place? Very neat and even handsome building device. All previous models of Palm special design refinements do not shine. Well, except that the Palm m500 was isolated from the total mass of an elegant metal body with a thin, razor-silhouette ... Tungsten W stands. And how stands out! Circular antenna (for anything not hooked), rounded shape.The screen seems small, but this impression may be misleading. Below the screen is located button keypad. It is designed for typing in "hiking" conditions and replaces the system of handwriting Graffiti. Good or not such replacement - is unknown. But for the communicator, and yes even at work when connected to the Internet mode, a fast guaranteed correct typing more important than a leisurely convenience handwriting. Keypad buttons are made flat. If we compare with the Sony CLIE NR-70, in which the keypad buttons have a deeper, does not look so convincing - buttons not to press the stylus. But, again, a final assessment can be given only after practical tests. All is not gold that glitters ... With the older model Tungsten T to W moved buttons running basic applications (their shape altered) and the Five-way navigation button joystick. In this case, the joystick is placed at the edge of the shell, and this, in our experience the use of certain computers Pocket PC, not very convenient - when you press the button, the communicator will try to slip out of hands (tight hold on the typewriter ... the driver). Most controversially, in my opinion, the solution - transfer slots for flash cards Secure Digital memory on the right side face of the housing. The model T slot installed on the upper side - next to the pen and the infrared window. In the model of W, in which the upper edge is even and a jack for a headset and antenna location for the slot was not found. Slot on the side of the hull is not very handy thing. Know this from experience with the Palm m125. Card memory clings to the edge of the cover, trying to jump out of the nest when the machine is in the pocket. And the finger when machine to rest in his hands, falls exactly on the card - that and look casually nazhmesh (memory card is retained in the slot inside the latch). In the Tungsten W, while holding his right hand, the slot will have the base of the thumb. To press the memory card and, thus, lose it, will require considerable flexibility in the hand ... But anyway - better to be at the top of the card as a series of typewriters 5xx. Tungsten W technical specifications are almost identical to the specifications of the Model T, with one very significant difference - a device installed an old Motorola Dragonball VZ processor clock speed of 33 megahertz. And that means ... goodbye video and MP3. Well, except that the module will release the external (a new external keyboard is presented in conjunction with computers). In the device nominally integrated Bluetooth and tri-band GSM. The most "sweet" - supports the protocol GPRS. That is, in Russia (in any case - in Moscow) Tungsten W is guaranteed to work as a cell phone, and as a device for data transfer. With such a device can be safely transferred to him all e-mail (if its not too much). And the web to leave a "big brother" - a personal computer. Finally - about nutrition. As always, Palm is for this part of the champion. Manufacturer claimed 10 hours of work and 250 hours standby time from svezhezaryazhennogo battery. Agree, very nice figure, even by the standards of cost-effective mobile phones, which typically do not trigger a toy, do not read books, do not write letters ...

A few words after

What can be seen in press releases and the first still timid and careful review of the new Palm `s, I tried to discern. I know for sure - even the controversial decisions that are applied to computers, family Tungsten, will soon become the accepted standard. Yet Palm has been and remains a trendsetter in the field of PDAs. Another question - how long it will last. When we wait for Tungsten T and W, we have in Russia? I think in the very near future.Tungsten W will be distributed through mobile operators, is tentatively priced at $ 549. However, none of the operators does not offer a machine, even on reservations. The prices for our sellers, of course, initially will be considerable, but the situation today, when the Palm at the same time produces a whole line of cheap, moderately expensive and very expensive computers - namely, Zire, PC series m1xx, m5xx and these Tungsten - is unique. We can choose any model of their own wallets and requests. It seems that such freemen users Palm `s not yet been ... The authors, translation:

Laugh satire in the chain of Orion. Review Game "Orions: Legends of Wizard&quot

"West is West and East is East.

And they do not come together ever

While Earth and Sky do not mess up God

The day of his Court.

But there is no East and West -

They will merge into one,

When we consider two mage each other's eyes,