Life on the pill

Everything is new - it is well forgotten old. Trite truth, but that it best reflects the situation in the area of ​​tablet PCs ... Frankly, the emergence of Tablet PC we are waiting with great interest. First, the fate of this technology is quite easy to predict. Second, anticipate that easy, but it is impossible to predict the outcome. This is also the creation of Microsoft, and how many have you seen a failed project in the world's largest corporations? .. Although this is also about the opinions diverge. However, failures in short supply. One of them - an attempt to release an operating system for Tablet PCs based on Windows 3.1 (in its present name for Pen - Ink). Bill Gates himself in one of his books, admitted disappointment that befell him in a test of this system in practice. Operating system simply did not recognize you, and this computer at work was inconvenient. The failure of failure, but the product was released and appeared on the market Tablet PCs - devoid of the keyboard machine, equipped with touch-sensitive to touch, screen and complete "notebook" a set of embedded devices. Gradually formed generalizing the name of the computer - "web-tablet, although any standards simply did not exist. One of the first such computer (name, if not mistaken, in Russian sounds as "Dauphin") in the early nineties and fell in Russia. No luck selling it, so the computer has remained practically unnoticed. But I still managed to try out this machine at work. Time prigasilo brightness of first impressions and completely erased some of the details. But one thing I remember clearly - this "Dauphin" seemed to me absolute nonsense ... the years passed. Manufacturers of portable computers released tablet computers, which until Russia has not traveled, and the rest of the world's great demand not have won, taking only a small part of the corporate markets. Then came the first pocket computers based on Windows CE. Over time, they were divided into several families. Small cars have lost the keyboard, classic handheld `s mostly died out (leave a memory of a Lost Dreams, and a couple are still evolving models) and gave rise to another class of devices - subbloknotnye diskless computers running all the same Windows CE. But then died out and they are ... Now everything is back to square one. That is the big keyboard computers based on Windows CE partially revived in the guise of yet unknown to us besklaviaturny Tablet PC. But at the same time revived, and tablet computers with hard drives is designed for a special edition of the operating system Windows XP for Tablet PC. So the question - what will the new family car Tablet PC - can be answered in some measure only looking back, because it was in the past, we can find answers to most questions. How's the old American movies - "Back to the Future"? That's it ...

Minimum movements

Prior to the official publication of the Tablet PC platform remains a little more time, so we can talk about these computers only in the alleged manner. Although the probability of error is very small - about the Tablet PC is so much said and written that hit the mark quite a challenge. Originally conceived as a Tablet PC only diskless machines that are running a special operating system - the successor to the unforgettable Windows CE. But here it was reported that a CE is not limited to that within the Tablet PC is possible to produce more powerful systems, equipped with hard drives and all that are equipped with "normal" notebooks - the sound and video system, a complete set of expansion slots and ports. To date, the operating system suitable for use on diskless Tablet PC, there is - it suddenly stalled Windows CE.NET.The list of technical specifications Tablet PC stringent restrictions, which were at the announcement of palm size computers are not available. This is understandable, the first palm size cars were forced to compete with the popular Palm `s who seized much of the PDA market. The devices are large and heavy, even at high functional equipment against small democratic Palm `s chances were not significant. Therefore, developers have proposed a potential buyer computers in dimensions Palm `a, but with more powerful hardware and software filling. What it has - you see yourself (as a minimum, a serious redistribution of the PDA market). With the Tablet PC the situation is quite different. They have no one to compete as the market Tablet PCs completely developed. In fact, it's not even release a revolutionary platform, and another attempt to use old ideas in order to form a new niche - besklaviaturny laptops ... I think that Gates be interested in, say, sheetfed scanner, the noise would have been no less - at the same level of "innovation . But it's Gates, he knows better ... What is a diskless version of the Tablet PC? Roughly the same as "screen" half a laptop keyboard deprived parts. That is - a small area aktivnomatrichny color screen diagonal of 10.8 inches (maybe 6 or 12 - hard install from Microsoft seems to be no) and a resolution of SVGA or XGA, equipped with a touch layer for pen input, and set in a compact body. In the first Tablet PC will be installed the same processors that are used in modern PDA Pocket PC. That is, StrongARM and XScale processor clock speed from 206 to 400 megahertz. But we can assume that with the release of new processors (Windows CE.NET does not impose restrictions on their use, as opposed to Pocket PC 2002, which permitted only one type of CPU) their appearance on the Tablet PC does not take long. Incidentally, in common between the Pocket PC and Tablet PC diskless option than it might seem. The difference in size, only in size. And, perhaps, in the amount of expansion slots - because it is small size, handheld computers preclude the installation of the CPC set of slots at once (without any kind "jackets" - PC card, CompactFlash, MMC / SD, and etc., etc.). Not for nothing is one of the Tablet PC prototypes created in laboratories, Compaq and demonstrated at the spring exhibition in Hannover (Cebit) looked like an enlarged copy of the iPaq `Yes. It turned out funny and cute. Like a pocket-sized machine to a modern Gulliver ... In the first computers, Tablet PC, some parameters seem to be too high of promotional considerations. Take, for example, amount of RAM. 128 MB - good or bad? For the price of the computer is not very much, for the operation of the system - without any special advantages, since the software for CE.NET is not so demanding on the memory size, and the user Tablet PC, as the owner of Pocket PC, can he buy a memory card of this size, what he needs . Particular emphasis in the Tablet PC is on wireless communications. Adapters Bluetooth or Wi-Fi should be present in the computers initially. GSM and GPS modules can be connected via an expansion slot ... But the same thing we see in older models of Pocket PC - in the older model iPaq or Toshiba, for example. What is revolutionary in the Tablet PC? What should plunge us into the sweet euphoria? That is designed to entice users rassuponit their wallets? And nothing ... Big screen, solid weight (from 800 grams or more - depending on the diagonal of the screen and frame sizes), the absence of the normal keyboard ... However, the keyboard will be virtual. Moreover, so great that the keys can be pressed with your fingers rather than stylus. (And then endlessly scour doroguschy matrix). The problem of food and I do not say. The device is great, the places in the body should be enough for very high-capacity batteries.But the power of a large matrix appropriate. So that the autonomy of a Tablet PC will be approximately the same as that of the Pocket PC - for the trip to the couch just right for multi-day trips - alas ... And, of course, light. Realize a large screen showing the backlight - so knowingly waive its uniformity. If the light is the same as in conventional laptops, that is nondisconnectable, then on the "field" applications, Tablet PC, you can forget. Do not make out there was nothing - at more or less bright, natural light ...

Maximum patience

Treat six months or a year from the handheld computer, you start to take your laptop to another. Annoying slowness of loading the operating system - seemingly about the same, Windows, and downloaded a few minutes. The Pocket PC is - seconds. Once or twice and you're done. Now imagine a portable tablet computer (designed to work on weight and not on the table) that is running Windows, God forgive me, XP ... you should quickly open the database, run a word processor or spreadsheet. Well, there is record something, or conversely, to look quickly. A machine just four minutes to boot ... Disk device option Tablet PC is nearly the same device a conventional laptop. Winchester, which connects the outside (although I have seen in the announcements and internal) drive CD-ROM. Sound system, two-dimensional graphics accelerator (for toys Tablet PC is not very suitable). Keyboard connector - as, indeed, and diskless congregation. Somehow, the developers believe the ability to connect standard (which is likely to be proprietary and therefore expensive) keyboard extraordinary achievement ... Next - processors. Economical (but creepy "brake") Transmeta Crusoe, mobile versions of the Pentium III and, presumably, IV (not anymore, so in the future). Nothing extraordinary, right? Set of ports - including the video for an external monitor. Built-in wireless data transmission (the same Bluetooth or Wi-FI - depending on the preferences of the manufacturer). "Notebook" Winchester and the same lithium battery ... Because of what fuss? Ah yes, the touch screen. Muddy, soft, next to the laptop quite flimsy ... I think not? Why then not seen much hype around desktop LCD monitors with touch screen? Or simply - on removable touch-screens that put on regular monitors? Technology is good and in some cases irreplaceable. But only for special applications.

The gun on the wheel

Distract and detailed technical arrangement Tablet PC, and try to try a novelty in itself. Count up - he needs us, is whether in real life, is it worth your money? All these questions can be answered in the negative - do not need no help, not worth it. Tablet PC portable machine, but close to the Pocket PC look like a monster that exists. Imagine, for example, reading a book with a screen this tablet ... tedious (you'll crush my stomach - if you read lying on the couch). Or imagine a posted a long gave a man who needed quick access to any information. To carry a half a kilogram of electronic services, so even without the customary keyboard (by the way, the weight of hard drive-equipped Tablet PC because of the presence of the drive and higher capacity batteries will be just about half kilograms)? And battery life is relatively small, and the capacity of programs (version for Windows CE.NET) are limited. Is it not better in this case, grab a full laptop? Finally - the price. One can assume a crush at the doors of a computer store, which sells 800-dollar Tablet PC. But the landslide of 2000 the demand for dollar toy (and you can wait and much more - in 2500-3000 dollars - the price), it is unlikely ... rose sharply as to reduce the cost of computers is expected.Active matrix of large size, so even with the touch sensitivity is itself not cheap stuff. Add to this the cost of components, payment of the current developments, the cost of licenses for the operating system from Microsoft. Yes and a small print run of production of the first Tablet PC will know. In the end, this is not a game console on which the stare and the old and young ... What - the new machines did not find a demand? I think they find. Firstly, they are perfectly suited for a variety of corporate applications. For example - in the banking sector. An employee of the bank, equipped with just such a computer with a wireless network connection will have access to any necessary for databases. Or in education, where the Tablet PC can serve as a wireless multimedia terminal (today's schools use a conventional PC with a wired network connection or portable "Macintosh equipped with proprietary wireless module). Or to trade here Tablet PC will serve as a convenient tool for quick calculations and taking into account the movement of goods. It was the same in the storage business. However, in the field of topography. And so on ... We are talking again, on specialized applications for which need and special software, and possibly a special performance of themselves Tablet PC. Like industrial PDA that is available in "armored clothes" and enhanced "foolproof" (among other things, the most that neither is a technical term in non-offensive sense - button to remove the excess, there you have referred to defense). Speaking of the Tablet PC as a technological breakthrough ... No, not really. Even handwriting recognition in his works one hundred percent (I want to believe). Even the human voice, he will understand at a glance (so far not a damn thing does not understand). All the same, for thoughtful work we connect to this tchotchke normal keyboard. Or a skin-five hundred, so take a good laptop. With a laptop, it still ... more reliable. PS "Tablet", shown on the last picture, just yesterday was provided by Acer. The official presentation of the platform scheduled for November. The authors, translation:

Bowling Deluxe, rolling a ball

A test version of the game - Bowling Deluxe Bowling Deluxe new game company Deluxeware has a long history. We can say that this release has absorbed several years of experience. The fact that both external, and semantic similarity of the game with a well-known game Megabowling has a rational core. A new game involving people uchastvovashih earlier in the creation of Megaboulinga. However, the new product can not be called simply the result of evolution, the game used the new technology, effective implementation of which was possible only on the latest Palm OS PDA. We can say that the old idea has a new incarnation of the modern technological, ideological and artistic level. I must say that we definitely liked the game. Quality product, very easy to use and complex enough to achieve mastery, not to get bored too quickly. Good graphics and music. Attention! Animated screenshot below gives only a rough idea of ​​the program (it was better to make hard). In the real work schedule is much more smooth and exciting. The game is based on 3D and sprite graphics. Balls during the flight, spin, twist, reflection - all rendered in real time. Because of this, chances are pretty slow work on the old HiRes handheld, but to play by the assurances of the developer can. We also tested the game on Palm Tungsten T3 - Bowling Deluxe is working with outstanding speed and reaction to the administration. But the bowling - it is graphic sprite. However, this can not be considered a fault, the drive of their expansion is provided. A lot contributes to the overall impression and the real sound. Perhaps the highlight of the game is a pleasant way to government. They are three, let's discuss them in detail. Stroke, Stroke. As the name implies, the ball goes down the path a stroke of the stylus. The faster and more confident holding pen, the ball flies faster. Send the ball in this mode, relatively easy, but achieving good results requires experience. This mode is the most intuitive. Simulator. In this mode to be manipulated by four parameters: the power throw the ball number, intensity and direction of twist of the ball, as well as launching point on the track. Mode allows you to precisely select all options throw, and last performed with mathematical precision. Like strategists. Arcade. Recalls simulator, but is complicated by the fact that the options not chosen in a relaxed atmosphere, and take turns jumping in such a way that we should have time to stop them at the right time. Quick response and accurate calculation will help to successfully play in this mode. You can play alone on stage, alone and with the computer. Multiplayer over wireless connections is not included. When you select a game to a computer, you can specify the desired complexity. In Bowling Deluxe offers three levels of difficulty. Changing complexity affects only the skill of throwing balls of computer opponent.With increasing complexity of the AI ​​starts to throw the ball more optimal, more often strikes. Deserve special mention quite a decent soundtrack and music. They create a pleasant atmosphere and unique added pleasure. According to the developers in the spring and summer of 2005 is expected to port Bowling Deluxe on the Symbian platform, and possibly, Pocket PC. In Russia, the program is supposed to spread the same ways as abroad - only through credit cards. Russian version ready to make the presence of about 20 Russian buyers, so if you decide to buy a bowling alley, do not forget to tick that you are from Russia. Disadvantages. But the deficiencies found in almost failed. All organized and thought out. Perhaps the only cost to make the process of selecting the game to return to the previous step. And also all the same estimate for the idea, we have reduced since her idea, for several years. Ratings HPC.ru:

• The freshness of ideas - 3
• Pleasure - 5
• Quality graphics - 5
• Speed ​​work - 5
• Music and sound - 5
• Management - 5
• Reliable Performance - 5
• Smart and implementation - 5
• Final score - 4.8

We wish you to get real pleasure from the game and achieve much better results than ours:) Test Platform: Palm Tungsten T3, crack PaPiRus, MMC Pretec 64 MB. The authors, translation:

EzPad - a computer on the forearm

The doctor gives the patient a pill and says:

- One half - from the head, the second - from ... Look, do not confuse.

People's sense of humor I remembered this "bearded" anecdote, when to learn more about the new platform, Microsoft - Tablet PC. And while this device directly related to medicine has not, the people, such devices are often called "pills". Although its content more accurately reflects the term "tablet". That is so familiarly:) I'll call here EzPad, a new class of portable computers (literally, handheld computer), often besklaviaturny, which in fact can be used like the tablet from a joke - as a separate unit under the operating system Microsoft Windows CE . NET (Windows CE 4.1) or a remote wireless terminal for a desktop PC.

Design

EzPad production company Epower Technologies like a very large PDA rectangular shape with rounded corners (length 230 mm, width 154 mm, thickness 20 mm, weight 755 g), much of which has excellent color display (21 cm diagonal), very bright and contrast, with a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. Highlighting the side, not very uniform, but for such a large screen is quite acceptable (completely off). In the tablet is not the usual keyboard - to enter information using a pen-and-screen keyboard, which is called if necessary. Pen acts as a mouse or other pointing devices - for selection, clicking on the links to switch between programs and windows open. If you, for whatever reason, does not satisfy such a way to input and cursor control, you can connect to the tablet or computer mouse or full keyboard. Either-or, because the tablet is equipped with only one connector USB, allowing you to connect peripherals (USB host). C EzPad desktop computer connects through another connector USB (Client) - for data synchronization or installing software (though the wires can be replaced by an infrared link). Interestingly, the sync cable combined with a VGA-out connector - connector that connects to any standard monitor or, more useful digital projector - a good solution for presentations. In the photo: connect an external display. Yes, via USB you can connect a number of flash storage class USB Drive, at least, Lexmark. Housing is very similar to the metal, but is made of durable plastic-covered "silverfish. Above is a connector for cards PCMCIA (or CompactFlash adapter if), USB-host, the power button (glows a beautiful blue color) and a container for a pen. Side are: button scrolling (scroller), USB-client terminals to connect the power adapter, headphones, microphone, and infrared. Under the display - four function buttons, from F4 to F1 (in that order). And the right of the tiny microphone.During the assembly at the factory buttons are assigned the following functions: F4 - fast call setup; F3 - Start your e-mail Inbox, F2 - Loading a word processor WordPad (an analogue of Pocket Word), F1 - to launch a Web Browser Pocket Internet Explorer. The back panel is attached stand that turns the tablet into the frame for digital photos, there is also fashionable now switch the battery, just below the reset button, and "hard» (hard reset)! Naively, I restarted it several times with it and then been looking for just the stored information. Who would have thought! A soft reset, it appears, is performed by simultaneously pressing the three hardware buttons. At the bottom of the rear panel is a great speaker. Despite its size, the sound of his quiet, no headphones can not hear anything. Perot heavy, weighs 1914 Long, two-toned. Along the way, can replace the dart in the game of darts:)

Memory

All memory tablet is divided into three parts. First, the flash ROM (32 MB), which houses the operating system together with embedded applications (called built-in CompactFlash, built-in CF). Second, 64 MB RAM, which can store data and programs to "hard" reboot. And thirdly, the flash memory 32 MB - a constant and not erasable for user files (something like a hard disk, but without the spinning platters). This memory can be "split" on the virtual disks - remember those times dos.

Food

I'm not chasing the plate on purpose, but 2-3 hours with a wireless card it should last for sure. Built-in battery. Very dangerous, at least in the predreliznogo copy which fell into my hands. Left unattended for a week, he "sat down" and was "hard" reset with the loss of all data in RAM. Program in flash memory remained, but confused them a little, - executables to register in the Program Files (in RAM) and have been lost (and record them in the registry). In particular, long live ordered the crack. Survived only Haali Reader:)

Applications

Crack wrote programmers MakTsentr. Somehow, the other "localizers" has not yet puzzled platform Windows CE. NET. MacCentre RusKey NET - a light version, without interface translation, but allows you to print the Russian version as a virtual keyboard (and them in tablet two - big and small) and a connected real (via USB). There is a small "glitch" - the keyboard does not understand Russian, where the tablet acts as a remote display for Windows XP, but the problem is solved and will be solved. Embedded applications are word processing Microsoft WordPad, «instant messengers» MSN Messenger, «stereo» Media Player c capable of playing audio and video from the Internet (MP3 and MPEG-4), postmen »Inbox,« raspoznavalkoy "English handwriting Transcriber "remote display» Remote Desktop, web browser Internet Explorer, toys FreeCell and Solitaire. In addition, there are several official utilitok, for example, Bluetooth Manager. Personally, I missed the program Notes, which you can write "electronic ink" without recognition of my scrawl. A pity. The screen is slightly rough to the touch, pen, it does not slide, it is convenient to write. Unfortunately, Transcriber does not understand Russian, though English handwriting, even together, translates the text quite well. The program is wonderful, but very "brake". Paragonovsky PenReader does not work, however, like other software platform Pocket PC. However, many applications for the computer keyboard class Handheld PC 2000 (in particular, for the HP Jornada 720) "stood up" without a problem - unfortunately, few of them. I must say that the program's website is constantly updated list of compatible programs, mostly commercial. But one link I was particularly pleased - Bundled Programs (ie, the program included) - and listed ClearVue (utility for viewing different file types), cePIM (I suspect that this lack of an organizer), Recorder (it is clear that recording) Picture viewer («smotrelka" pictures). But during the writing of this review section was «under construction».

Wireless connectivity Wi-Fi

Well, you say, a wonderful device, but why and who needs it? And imagine, lightweight device with a big good screen, equipped with wireless communication anyone you comfortable standard - Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (802.11b), GRPS, CDMA. Take, for example, a standard 802.11b (or Wi-Fi), is rapidly being introduced in the corporate sector. Using the PCMCIA-card gives you access to all local area network for your company. E-mail, Internet, schedule meetings, scheduled the case, text messaging via IM (MSN Messenger or ICQ, for example), edit documents (Word or Excel) or a solution of other, more specific tasks. And all this without approaching your workplace at a distance of almost 100 meters. In principle, even this distance is not the limit, if your office is equipped with not one, but multiple access points (access point), which support each other roaming, ie, one point "passes" you have another one, if you leave the area it covers. At home you can build the same network, if your house and land is larger than srednestaticheskoy apartment. Moreover, in the open air access point provides coverage within a radius of 300 meters from it. Come out to the garden, listen to digital music, look no less digital video, staring at the Internet, but all this work does your home computer, which acts as a server connected to the Internet. The farther into the garden, the greater the need to access points. If you live in an ordinary apartment, enough to organize an ad hoc network (no access points) - you need another adapter 802.11b (on PCMCIA card, or on the board to be installed in a PC system unit). All these solutions are convenient in that you do not have to swear to the family and to plot on which his wife and children will surf the World Wide Web. After all, usually only one home computer is connected to the Internet. Wi-Fi card produced by many manufacturers, but the best results showed the PC-Adapter Cisco Aironet 350 and Senao SL-2511CD. Tablet taken them without additional software. I went down through the concrete floors on three floors down, but the connection was not interrupted. These cards were immediately identified, which can not be said about the product Compaq WL100 and Symbol Spectrum24 - no driver tablet not understand them. In the photo: tablet with WLAN-card Senao and USB Drive. Note that the pen is held by a magnet. Hopefully, the producers of the periphery will sooner or later descend to the platform Windows CE. NET.

Bluetooth

But the realization of another popular wireless standard Bluetooth in this device I was very disappointed. Rather than build kopek and a tiny transceiver inside, the developers have written a generic driver for Bluetooth-adapter on a PC-and CF-cards. Of course, a certain logic in this is because the standard has a "raw" and constantly improving. I tested four CF-cards (with "pants" adapters PCMCIA) - for none of them are no "native" drivers for WinCE. NET. This BT-adapters production Bluetake, AmbiCom, Pretec and Socket. Pretec card eliminate immediately - built Bluetooth Manager tablet rejected it decisively. The remaining cards are working without sobstennyh drivers, but worked so unstable that it would be better and did not work at all. I could not understand the conditions under which a connection is established, and under what interrupted, giving an error opening the port. One time I was "sitting" on the Internet for almost two hours, but often the connection broke after a couple of minutes.And, even hard reset did not help. The only thing that pleases because it assured the Russian "promoters" tablet that promise in the commercial version to bring to mind the software responsible for the work of Bluetooth. To access the Internet through a Bluetooth access point, I enjoyed blue2net company Siemens, connected to the LAN - this little box can stand on a table or hang on the wall. She has just two connectors - for the power adapter and inclusion in the network. Our server itself has found a new device in the network (using DHCP) and is automatically conferred on him the IP-address. After that you only register in the connection settings tablet proxy server address and blue2net became a "conductor" on the Internet all around a BT-device. Retail price of this "station" in Russia is 425 euros. In the photo: simultaneous access to the Internet Tablet and handheld Pocket LOOX. By the way, convinced that blue2net «hits" to a distance of 10 meters (LOOX in a coverage area within 30 meters from it).

Satellite navigation

Coupled with satellite GPS-receiver tablet may be the perfect navigation solution for the car (only need to come up with a decent mount to "torpedo"). On his big screen is placed a very large chunk of cards (in my case, PalmGIS). At least, satellite navigator firm Pretec (for CompactFlash-card) was immediately recognized and took us on a journey:). In the photo: PalmGIS with satellite navigator.

Remote Display

Since the tablet corresponds to the concept of Microsoft Tablet PC (though not completely), it can serve as a remote display desktop PC running Windows XP Professional, located somewhere behind the wall - for this program provides Remote Desktop. Of course, you need to know the name of the "big" PC login, password and domain (workgroup name). In this configuration EzPad uses the resources of a PC, it solves the problem, look to the Internet and so on. In the photo: Windows XP on-screen tablet.

Summary

If we neglect the small design flaws and "dampness" of the operating system, the impression of a tablet formed very pleasant. With an estimated retail price of $ 700 (the company "Vobis" intends to start selling it already November) EzPad tablet has a good chance to gain a foothold in several markets. Of course, without a wireless tablet has no right to exist:) - all of its charm in the possibility to walk around the house or a warehouse (or on a hospital ward) and to be associated with a home computer or server, using its resources. Advantages over a laptop - no moving parts and instant download. Advantages of the CCP - display. Disadvantages - the implementation of Bluetooth, although the latest reports, developers have been working with the company Bluetake for "repair" the drivers. In addition, at the November Comdex trade show will be presented this tablet with an Intel XScale.

Technical Specifications (according to the manufacturer)

• OS: Microsoft Windows CE. NET (4.1)
• Processor: Intel StrongArm/206 MHz
• Memory: 64 MB RAM + 32 MB Data Flash (expandable to 128 MB) + 32 MB Flash-ROM
• Display: 800x600, side lights, diagonal 8.4 "(21.3 cm)
• Expansion: PCMCIA
• Ports: IrDA, USB (client and host), VGA
Audio: microphone, jack (stereo), headphone and microphone Battery: Lithium-ion polymer Dimensions and weight: 230 x 154 x 20 mm, 755, the

And, of course, thanks:)

Blazar: space battles under the rumble of lathes

Version Blazar for Pocket PC version for MS Smartphone Blazar Blazar version for Series 60 Platform version Blazar communicators SonyEricsson What? Is space shooter still live? Fantastic! Riddle of the survival of space shooters, do not leave "counters" for several decades, until now I did not solved. The secret of their popularity is beyond comprehension - the game lies in the simple and down-movements of the fingers, are unlikely to sow reasonable, good and eternal. Usually, these games suffer from a lack of sense of humor, repetition key elements of wandering out of the game in the game, endlessly zanudlivymi spaces and the complete lack of sense. Elements Interactive software company has decided to disrupt this dense pale walls of the same type of games and a considerable variety of recently released its own shooter. Rolled up their sleeves and came up with a smile, and neatly done here ... For all the originality of some elements, the developers could not resist ... and fell victim to the "space sickness", calling his creation "blazars". "Houston, we have a problem!" Soooo, where we've got the drawings ... Parse our space saga to a cog, tell and show.

Story: 3 / 5

At the core of any shooter is the struggle for liberation. Rarely clear who, whom and why. Blazar here, unfortunately, the exception was not. The absence of a plot - a phenomenon quite common among shooters - here a complete mix of goals, circumstances and styles. N / O or on the website of the game or the game itself does not describe all the circumstances of the battle waged. We just run headlong into a cartoon kosmoletik and rushing to the attack. Judging by the decor, we uphold the economic independence of the land: combat flight attendant is obviously the shops of a plant. Here we fly past the mesh fence, heroically protaranennyh our predecessors in the hot battle: "Hi Malchish!". Signs "Danger" on the walls, metal bolts and rivets, endless space, numerous enemies ... interesting to see how all this evil come here. And why it's so concentrated it is here, in the native plant named you-know-who ... try to analyze a civilization trying to enslave us and take away resources. Judging by their appearance, an alliance of aliens and peremetnuvshihsya them traitors - Engineers from the ground. As you will often run a familiar kind of rocket, you will have to attack the flying machine guns, and a strange-looking creatures with tentacles (Well, where do without them? ..) In a collision with you on the nose of your nashlepyvayutsya kosmoletika, clogging the nozzle and the barrel, not allowing the fire aggressive enemy side. "Velcro-octopuses" can shake if accelerate progress. A surprising number of ... Although the absolute grounded the story and its protagonists parties, the name of the game are absolutely astronomical and intended, perhaps, to remind us of the futility of all our militant liberation sentiment. The fact that the blazar - a black hole, emitting narrow streams of high-energy particles. But we know that we should fight ... And in a frenzy we press the keys, nervously scratching the display with stylus and fly farther.

Gameplay: 3.5 / 5

Shooting just continuous. And nowhere, nowhere, nowhere on it will go. Our poor kosmoletik constantly shelled, and that quite funny, is not always clear from where. The flow of bullets flying at him just under the standard.Just in case. Those "flying machine guns, about which I wrote above, shot without a break, so that to destroy the foe was left unscathed is almost impossible that it is insulting. But this is, I think the harsh space-factory life. Playing on a course more difficult, the bosses (without which the "tape" shooters can not do) at the end of levels are outrageously tenacious, so that once got into a fight, do not have to be bored. What's good level design, with each game is changing.

Interface: 4 / 5

In the shooter is always quite simple. Break down than to build. Know yourself moving, still ship itself shoots. But for the fans something more complex provides the ability to disable automatic fire through the menu Assign Keys. You can also designate a key to start the game. Everything else - moving up and down and left and right - by dzhoypadom / Jogger or stylus. We have also radar - it shows the location and number of enemies and bonuses in front, and also very useful for detecting missile launches treacherous back (some subtle craftiness!). The menu can change the volume of music and sound effects, enable / disable automatic firing mode, as well as the enigmatic function «Erase Data». I guess it comes the score, which I found on the website of the game, you can even upload to the server. Also on the menu you can enter your license code to get a fully functional game (in the demo you are limited to an incomplete first level and the lack of opportunities to save points earned). Lack of menu - the menu button labels difficult to read - they are somewhat mixed with the cosmic background. Another slight drawback - it is difficult to understand what a bonus for what, and what happens if you "gobble up" one or another blue brick.

Graphics: 4 / 5

Corridors of the main site of action, which we defined as a factory and warehouse have some sad, peculiar, however, above the interior in real life. But the heroes, by contrast, are not devoid of originality, are designed well, with humor. Graphics resolution and contrast - you can immediately uglyadet all enemies, bonuses distinguish and recognize the danger, but would like more specific elements of those same details - little finishing touches that can make the game quite unusual.

Sound: 5 / 5

Thanks to a friend DJ PWB for our happy "blazirovanie! Music is good. In addition, the developers make it possible to control the level of its volume - agree, even such a simple element, not every developer account. Buhi, mutual funds and pafy also quite good, especially if you play with headphones. Just for the sound of explosion, I often neglected the enemy and chased flying through the endless "factory" cobblestone corridors - they are already very well burst.

Outcome: 4 / 5

Estimating the game, we took into account the specific scope and limitations of the genre of "shooter". Being a shooter, and having inherited all the flaws of the genre, Blazer, however, differs from the set of tape shooter that was done with humor. Fly and shoot.Forward to defend family economic resources! See also: Li-Nuggz from the company Elements Interactive Li-Nuggz Version for Pocket PC, MS Smartphone and PDA platform Series 60. Review of the game in the "Playing the soft parade" The authors, translation:

PDA Zire: Cheap Palm - good Palm?

Palm Inc., The biggest player in the PDA market in the fall of 2002, finally updated its lineup. Admirers mark still waited for completion in cracked recent series Palm-devices. The first has already appeared on store shelves, has become an inexpensive handheld, Palm Zire. At its price of $ 99 and full functionality of conventional PDA, he can become a really good buy for people unfamiliar with such devices or acquaintances just hearsay, but such an absolute majority, especially in our country. But first things first.

Top view

At first it looks plays a major role in selecting the PDA. Given that the novelty will not be sold in boxes, as precursors, and in the bright blisters, and even in supermarkets, it becomes clear the importance of visual appeal Zire. Inexpensive, clear, attractive, but still ... It must be admitted outside the handheld failed. Zire has a sleek, compact form (much like a Palm m515), a decent color scheme. It is true that the CCP has lost four conventional hardware shortcut for applications and content with just two - the address book and organizer. These same buttons in some applications, serve as "Left" and "Right", respectively. Retain as scroll keys "Up" and "Down." It would seem that so special, well, removed the two buttons, so what? Yes, perhaps at the general convenience of calling applications are not affected, but programs that use just six buttons (eg, games) will remain beyond affordable. As for the two key application buttons, then they are partially sunk into a rounded rectangle, and therefore do not use them as comfortably as before. On top of the casing new items are present infrared, as well as connectors for connecting power and USB-cable. Must say that the standard I / O for Palm'ov with a universal connector (Palm Universal Connector) will be incompatible with the new handhelds. That's why he and the new, and budget. Comes with a new PDA cover is made of flexible transparent plastic blue. It is worth noting that it significantly exceeds the performance of style protective cover for Palm m10x. However, the shortcomings, it is also available. Feedback from early users, hardware buttons practically not protected against accidental clicks. The very bad cap is fixed in the tilted position. In any case, with both deficiencies can be tolerated.

Internal content ...

... It is clear that not very rich. But at least the "face" new left, but everything else was not so bad and maybe even fixable. Heart Zire is a pretty weak processor Motorola Dragonball EZ 16MHz, palmovodam familiar with the experience of old men still Palm m10x. If with such a processor can still be tolerated, then the 2MB of memory and lack of expansion slots - a real mockery of the user. But recovered - by the user, indifferent to the CCP. Zire is aimed at beginners and is intended to replace the notebook. Although, if its volume is not enough, we think that there are many Kulibin able to add the device 6MB brains (or rather to change the chip with 2MB of on a similar, but with 8MB). However, if it does not take into account, then 2MB (or more precisely 1,8 Mb of personal use of the owner) will be enough. "Think" Zire helps the operating system Palm OS 4.1, which came to replace the outdated Palm OS 3.5.2 in the m10x-series.

Screen

Fit to screen Zire slightly less than its counterpart at the Palm m500 - 2.0 "vs. 2.25". However, he remarkably contrasting what looks like again on the m500. And there would be nothing if not a "but" - a handheld is no backlight. Surprised? It is understandable. The only (!) PDA until now managed by Palm OS operating and without illumination was the first Pilot, released in the last century in the distant year of 1996.So, in the dark Zire is not live. May be released some hack or patch, because the hardware this possibility, certainly, is implemented. If this does not happen, then the handheld will lose a lot of buyers. Who wants to be an organizer, which will not be able to warn the host of an evening meeting? Area graffiti was virtually unchanged. Only one major innovation - the icon in the form of stars in the usual place of the calculator. This option can be configured to call any frequently used applications. True, by default, it initiates a Hotsync.

Stylus

As for instance, supplied with the Zire, then this accessory is not impressive. For example, the stylus in the SL10, the cheapest model from Sony, an order of magnitude more solid and comfortable, and in the case of the Zire - this is the usual piece of plastic and nothing more.

Life Time

The only thing the new kid succeed - it's battery life. Thus, the built-in battery, no lights, and expansion slots, as well as a weak processor Zire make this long-lived.

Cinhronizatsiya and communications capabilities

As in the case of the SL10, Zire sync via USB-cable without hardware synchronization of the start button, so every time have to call the HotSync manually. You can do this by using "star" in the area of ​​graffiti, which, as we have said, by default, provides a starting synchronization. Communication as possible with Zire handhelds are quite standard for low-end level. The developers did not follow the footsteps of their counterparts from Casio and did not cut kopek IR, but did not follow Sony, some of which were equipped with advanced handhelds with an infrared port.

Filling

Palm Zire comes with a full set of standard for "palmovyh" computer applications. Pressing the "Up", as in the previous budget-Palm m100, a couple of seconds there are date and time. Program, supplied on CD is also completely standard. This includes several games (Giraffe, Hardball, Minehunt and Puzzle), the latest Palm Desktop for Windows and Mac, and Chapura PocketMirror to sync with MS Outlook. As for compatibility, then all is clear - Palm OS 4.1 allows Zire run almost any program. Restriction, however, can serve two hardware buttons instead of four.

Market - a delicate matter

Let's find out looks like new on the background of the previous budget models from Palm Inc., By the way, with a starting price of nearly a half times higher, - Palm m100:

Model	Palm Zire	Palm m100
Processor	Motorola Dragonball EZ 16MHz	Motorola Dragonball EZ 16MHz
Operating System	Palm OS 4.1	Palm OS 3.5.2
RAM	2MB	2MB
Screen Resolution	160x160	160x160
Expansion Slots	No	No
Food	Lithium-Ion Battery	AAA
Dimensions	112x74x16mm	118x79x18mm
Weight	109 g	124 g
Communication with your desktop PC	via USB	on COM
Price	$ 99 (U.S.)	not done

As can be seen, Zire outperforms its predecessor in almost every respect. It is worth noting the small size beginner and built-in battery. The latter - a controversial benefit for the budget items because of its high cost. Apparently, changing the AAA-battery compartment on, the developers decided not osnasnaschat new computer 8MB of memory. As a result, Zire is on board only 2 MB. Although it can be assumed that in such a way Palm Inc.left the place for an analogue Palm m105, which, recall, went out after m100. Well, wait - we'll see.

Total

Palm is developing a new handheld, guided by the motto: "Replace paper organizers, notebooks and sticky notes, reminders! Within this framework, engineers well their task: long battery life, high contrast screen, compatibility with thousands of programs, stylish design and compact size, quick data synchronization with your desktop computer through USB and exchange on the IR port, 2 MB of memory , which in principle will be enough to carry around a handy scheduler, phone numbers of friends, a couple of dictionaries, a dozen small books - what else would you pupils, students or housewives, to go shopping? Yes, and the target audience will easily find the PDA, as on the marketing plan, it will be sold in supermarkets in the bright blister along with cheap cameras and electronic notebooks. In short, the idea of ​​the CPC in the masses! True, rather broad American or European. It is unlikely that the invasion Zire will be organized in Russian supermarkets. Still pricey notebook turns out - $ 99 + shipping (about $ 30-40). Oh, and never reduced the potential buyers can something not like a novelty - namely, the lack of lighting, uncomfortable protective cover and a small (vse-taki!) amount of memory. However, everyone with something to start ... And if the owner of the PDA Zire get used to and make friends with your handheld, another supporter of the idea of ​​PDA may be more. The authors, translation:

"Mister Smile": absolutely everything - children!

"God, what a meal to raise!" Quote of the m / f. "The Return of Carlson" version of the game, "Mr. Smiley" for Pocket PC and Palm OS While the adults uncle with a straight face indulged male pastimes, spending time in the "pocket" casino and pool, saving the galaxy from the countless invasions of aliens varied shape, developing a breakneck speed in the automobile and motorcycle racing, blowing out to sea merchant ships, searching for the captive princesses, fighting dragons, and even controlling the whole states or until mom enthusiastically pushing the buttons, were engaged in maintenance of electronic animals, gambling trips and indulge Managing whole game shops, kids running around left completely unattended. All their attempts to attract the attention of diverse and childish tricks and smart pull at the hem did not lead to the desired result. Uncles and aunts dismissed, muttered under his breath something like, "Right now throw all his affairs, and you'll puff balls" and continued to poke furiously at the screen of their PDA. And then, there were still good people. Absolutist Game Studio introduced "Mr. Smiley» (Smiling Bubbles), which is posted on its website under "For the children» (Kids). Doubly pleased that the children made no shooter, not masher, not brodilka and letalka-unichtozhalka and fun puzzle: starting colored balls into the crowd of colorful smiley face, looming at you, you should try to get into the group of the same color as the ball runs . add the number of single-color beads or the same faces up to three or more in order to remove them from the playing field and free up space. The more clustered faces burst, the closer you are to victory. Goal of the game - to remove all the faces from the playing field. If approaching jovial and melancholic, sometimes just a ball will reach the lower boundary of the field, their joy would be no limit - you lose. In fact, adults and interesting, but the main thing in this case - the kids will be informative.

Plot [4 / 5]

Game studios have always been novelty. In one of our previous reviews, we wrote about one of these original games - «Bubble Shooter» (the game was rated as the best games of the month with a rating of "Editor's Choice HPC.ru»). "Mister Smile" is just a refinement of this game: it is made on the same engine with modified graphics and with the addition of a number of bonuses. Typically, when the fact of reviews using the same engine with minor modifications, we perceived negatively, but this time the case is different. Here we are dealing with the processing of the game and make it a child without a claim to novelty. Meanwhile, the schedule is really suitable for children - many faces, "good and different, with different characters and, accordingly, the different behavior. It is a pity, though, that they do not communicate with each other and do not express their emotions more violently as it was described in the README text on the site.

Gameplay [4 / 5]

Play for fun. Through the menu "Select a game, you can customize the way you like mode:" Strategy "or" Arcade ". In the "Strategy" new faces appear on the field after a certain number of moves without result."Arcade" is more difficult for those who are older: it has new faces relentlessly appear at regular intervals. Removing all faces from the board, move to a new, more sophisticated level, with bubbles of new colors and a smaller number of moves without result, after which faces will go on the offensive. If during the game you will be able to remove all bubbles from the board of one color, you are given a bonus - a ball with unusual "abilities." Among these: "Superman", which sweeps away everything in its path, but black still bombochek, "brush", which stains the area surrounding one-color balls in the color of the bonus ball, "traitors bombers, blow up all the bubbles of the same color, and many others. Bonuses can sometimes occur spontaneously during a game. Thus, among the faces and balls can get special bubbles with numbers, destroying them will increase the score of two (x2 bubbles) or even four times (x4 bubbles). Despite the interesting variety of bonuses, their large number of difficult to remember, and, taking into account the lack of graphic prompts (see Interface), children in particular will be difficult to use all the bonuses for other purposes. In short, too many rules for children. Scored more points, you can declare itself on the entire internet, download them to your server: receiving the code, you enter it on the site Absolutist.ru - and - voila! Here they are you! First place, I hope? Convenient and safe system.

Interface [3.75 / 5]

The game itself is arranged conveniently enough, you can navigate quickly. Nevertheless, under podksazok on the screen, unfortunately, is less than desirable. Thus, a very long time have to wonder what kind of a surprise contains one or the other bonus ball. And in the help file, although a detailed and clear, unfortunately, no graphics, which is important for children. As for the control of the game, then all is fine. Children love to push buttons. Although there is a conscious, who enjoy poking at the screen stick on the example of adults. Absolutist has provided two options: you can control the game through dzhoypada, but if you want - the stylus. Depending on the method varies slightly as the interface and the playing field: If you choose dzhoypada will help you line path, no need to guess where you will - it will be shown on the display.

Graphics [4.75 / 5]

Faces are really funny. Disgruntled, funny, phlegmatic and cheerful. That's what you want kids. Honestly, not only to them. So great to see such a variety of characters and their vitality. Very entertaining, but does not detract from the game.

Sound [3.75 / 5]

Sounds in the game a lot. Claps, bells, noises. They attend many such events in the game, such as: the transition to a new level, adding new faces on the field, remove from the field grouped balls and more. It is a pity that not all events are accompanied by the right sound. Vymahav far beyond childhood, I am still waiting for a blast bombs with a fuse. But no. She modestly, in English, totally silently (Aki neutrinos) that must be destroyed and evaporated. But where "the promised boom"?

Summary

Absolutist studio once again to be bold and innovative."Mr. Smiley" - a rare case of games, the exposed children. Children's games probably one of the most complex areas of developing entertainment and no one is immune from mistakes, especially from those that we have not mentioned. Anyway, we believe that the presence of such games - the great advantage of the studio. They managed to make the desired game: a fun, diverse, and students. Honor and praise! SEE ALSO: Bubbles (Bubble Shooter), rated "Editor's Choice HPC.ru". Overview and version of the game for the Pocket PC, Palm OS and MS Smartphone. Jet Ducks (Jet Ducks), rated "Editor's Choice HPC.ru". Overview and version of the game for the Pocket PC, Palm OS and Series 60. Tetribox. Overview and version of the game for the Pocket PC and Palm OS. Snooker (Bubble Snoooker). Overview and version of the game for the Pocket PC and Palm OS Hurt butterflies (Butterflight). Overview and version of the game for the Pocket PC and Palm OS. Beach volleyball (VolleyBolley). Overview and version of the game for the Pocket PC and Palm OS.

Palm Zire: for the smallest

Notice of the release of the Palm Zire has caused me a strange association. I immediately remembered one of the latest motor shows. It patriarch of the Russian automotive Nizhny Novgorod, GAZ, presented an amazing car - GAZ-21 Volga in some super-duper performance of nickel-plated. Impression of this concept (current as hopefully, in a single copy) remained about the same as that of Professor Feith car from the movie "The Great Race." That is - cute, funny and extremely silly. You can not enter the same river twice - pants get wet ... That company was drawn to the same Palm. And turned her Zire ... wonderful, it should be noted, the machine. A mixture of Chinese, "Tetris" with a flashlight. But until a cheap and very simple impossibility. Money is cheaper and simpler calculator ... very good option for the waste of American "cents". I admit at once - a new computer I not only liked, he had me puzzled. Who is Sia gizmo? For students? I do not hold the developers Palm `s younger users for idiots? Or do they think $ 99 is so small money that future owners Zire (if any show up) with a smile, just some design tricks? But 99 dollars - it's still money. Given that Russia Zire will cost $ 30-40 more expensive, almost for the same money today you can buy a normal Palm m105. With 8 MB ​​of memory, with four hardware buttons to run basic applications, and even came with a set of "cradle" (and, one of the most elegant and practical in a production line of Palm). Shot in the sky - that's what the new Zire. Absurd move in a big game. However, a closer look close. Suddenly, all is not so bad?

Simplicity, which is worse than theft

Appearance Zire, in principle, at the level of ... children's electronic toys, but not handhelds. Plastic construction with rounded, like a piece of soap, edges. Screen is small, making housing more smacks and a pancake. Or on the flat oladyshek (with maple syrup? "No, just a couple of dull buttons). Next - rectangular blotches pushbutton unit, located below the screen. Discern the influence of Sony, but this is not Sony. Buttons awkward - trying to scroll the screen image, you certainly caught the adjacent button and start the address book or calendar ... But do not start anything because the buttons are only two basic applications. Savings. Located on the left button on your computer. And here lies one of the most curious details ... The new handheld is no backlight. Yes, come ... But that's not all. Among the other delights of the global oversimplification of the new machine can be found:

• outdated processor Motorola Dragonball EZ with such a frequency of 16 MHz
• neperezapisyvaemoe mask ROM (although, in general, and to anything)
• clearly insufficient amount of RAM - only 2 (in words - two!) megabyte
• the absence of any slots for flash memory cards

As compensation for the abuse of technology Zire - both black and white models - stored:

• Infrared
• nothing more substantial

From their counterparts of Senior borrowed:

• non-replaceable lithium-ion battery instead of replaceable dry cell AA and, accordingly, the external power supply and a separate cable for charging
• mini USB port as a port sync with a PC, too, a separate cable (total - 2 cable)
• Operating System Palm OS 4.1 (very, very new)
• Again - nothing substantial.

Who's disabled?

Operating System Zire is slightly different from the standard of the Quartet.If we carefully look at the screen - to the field of handwriting information, it is easy to notice the lack of touch launch buttons calculator. Instead it shows the kind of star ... What a star? Why Star? It turns out that a challenge to the program list-minions. That is, those applications that the owner enjoys the most. There may be the same calculator, and some kind of toy ... But the question is - what can fit in 2 MB of memory? A set of four games, which roams from the Palm `in Palm since the days of ancient Pilot` eh? Calendar - Address Book - a notebook? Reader and the detective to her? Is that all? Remember the agony holders machines m100. (And remember that - half of us, "palmovladeltsev" enjoy the m100 until now). As they suffer (we) because of the limited amount of RAM. How to search rukodelnyh artisans that are taken to add to their Palm `s an extra chip. How to pay money for this questionable (because of the amateur performance) case. It seems that the division of sufferers grow to the size of an army. Zire owners will also feel the lack of RAM in their machines. And, too, turn to handicraftsmen ... Here you have a new profession - the memory of Palm `s add ... By the way, today on our website has been published and news about this topic: turn up already skilled craftsmen who had increased" brief memory of the "new Palm'a to 8 MB. Worth, perhaps, to assume the existence of a Zire anything else that software baubles. Yes, I did something never found. Deficiencies alone lacks. Small slepenky screen (no backlight!), Unprepossessing form of a bulky body, uncomfortable (absolyutno!) button.

What should be done

In a production program, Palm still was listed model m105 (pictured). This is a good, time-tested computer. If you thought up himself to take the Palm, but money is not so much - take the m105, can not go wrong. Price, then they have a new Zire is almost the same. But the opportunities for m105 - Pobol ... Only one drawback with Palm m105, or rather - two. The first - an outdated operating system version 3.5, which can not be changed. And the second - to synchronize with a PC is carried out only by slow serial ports (except for built-in infrared port, which is just as slow). On the other hand - and what the benefits of Palm OS 4, if the machine no slot for flash memory cards? The main difference between the fourth version of the operating system is a management software memory cards. The rest is not so much ... And the COM port is not satisfied with only the owners of small notebooks in which the serial no, yes makintoshnikov. The rest, as expressed in today's youth, "the drum" - there is a pocket typewriter USB or not. That cost the company to upgrade Palm m105, replacing Stitched in mask ROM, the operating system on a more modern, but changing the (needed as some revolutionary innovations?) "Muzzle" of the computer itself? Would receive the same $ 99 ... But he was hungry company Palm. I wanted her to fame Japanese competitors. And she decided to outdo a cheap monochrome machines Sony CLIE SL10.

And what was not worth

Still a no demand for Zire will. You should not discount the extent of the manufacturer. If the market will vbrosheny tens of thousands of new devices, with appropriate advertising, they certainly find a buyer (note the packaging - computers are sold in plastic blister packs, like dolls, "Barbie"). Not for 99 dollars, of course, but this is detail. We can only analyze the engineering failures developers Zire, not to fall in the number of users of these machines ... or vice versa - to get to. Someone as my thoughts are not convinced? And well, that does not convince. I'm just a user Palm `a, like many of us, not some kind of" computer guru ".The most ordinary people, "run down" on this wonderful technique, and no longer imagine life without e nurse ... I wish I could be mistaken for Zire! We have been waiting for new models ... What is the internal battery on a monochrome PDA? The absence of a headache with the acquisition of batteries. And what - "threw" Tonight your Palm in the cradle, and let them charge ... This is on one side. On the other - from two alkaline (alkaline) elements of AAA Palm with a monochrome screen works for about a month (my last "record" 29 days - I do not play games that are more spending power). Fifty rubles a month - unlimited battery life of PDAs. Anywhere, anytime, at any time, any place to find fresh batteries and replace them with no problem. But finding an electrical outlet to recharge the internal battery is another matter. Not for nothing that the manufacturer offers as accessories to the Zire electrical adapter kit that the owner was able to recharge the battery is stranded in America, Australia or Europe. And the battery on a monochrome handheld computer - is the need to carry a power supply (the Zire quite small) and a cable to it. That is a pocket computer immediately turns into a "portfolio", right? And if we add to this the sync cable? Incidentally, the cradle for the Zire does not exist in principle. And anyway - there is no periphery no longer available. There are only translucent covers, spare pens, a set of electrical adapters, adapters, a pair of cables (if staff lost) - and all. Keyboard, backup module (available for the m100 and m105), modem, etc. to connect to nothing - no communication connectors. Just mini USB. I do not think that the producers pocket periphery offended commercial prospects Zire (what are the prospects, you are my God ") and will produce something for the new items. And to be pleasant without Zire makeweights. And cheaper, cheaper, cheaper ...

A sad look at the present

Yes, yes - sad ... But - not dull. If I needed today, a simple monochrome PDA, I would have found itself. Firstly, there is a Palm m105 and Palm m125 (I just m125, and I'm indescribably happy). Secondly, there is a low cost, "Sonya" - with a normal amount of memory, with a normal (albeit a little bit, say, brake) screen, powered by replaceable elements. Finally, there is all sorts of clones - mostly Chinese. Clones have not sold, but you can also on occasion to fly into China, and yourself? If the mountain will not come to Mohammed, Mohammed goes to the mountain ... Thousands of dollars on the road, a hundred on your computer. My company a way to save! What is found on the creators Zire, if they are on the verge of world events awaited Palm OS 5 released a typewriter the day before yesterday a level? The situation becomes clear, if we try to predict the near future. Runs for three months. Almost time for Christmas sales. And the price is reduced by half for Zire ... If this happens, the Palm Zire become the best selling machine in the world. For cons hundred dollar models become pros pyatidesyatidollarovoy. You could, for example, spent 1,600 rubles on this one Zire? I would - without hesitation ... authors, translation: