Mobile News

PDA: what's inside

I am sure most owners of PDA would be very interesting to look at the "stuffing" their pocket assistants. However, for several reasons - whether it's reluctance to break the warranty seal or just a fear of something to break - not all of this venture. Therefore, we will make this part of the work for them. At our disposal Casio E-1911 Pocket-size PC, Palm III, Palm V, and Psion Series 5mx. This is not the latest model of the CCP, but, perhaps, one of the most common. Let's start with the family of Windows CE - the very "young" from all those listed. In fact, an attempt to Microsoft "transfer" its dominant position in the market for desktop systems in the sector of the CCP. Indeed, the first time after his appearance on PDA running Windows CE in great demand - it is so tempting to have a pocket device with a familiar "desktop" interface. Alas, all the other desktop "charms" are also moved in the "pocket" operating system - and familiar to the instability of the pain (especially in the first versions of the system), and cumbersome, and inefficient use of system resources - everything was "on site". However, unlike desktop PCs with their hundreds of megabytes and megahertz, handheld devices have much more modest resources. Hence the frequent "freezes, slow performance and other shortcomings of the first versions of Windows CE. Today, the frequency processors PDA Windows CE approach to desktop PCs, the memory grows, but all this "eats" the growing needs of the new system. The situation is completely analogous to what happens in the desktop world. Yes, and application functionality and is far from the desktop. Casio E-11 - one of the first bezklaviaturnyh PDAs based on Windows CE 2.0. Line of Palm-size PC - an obvious attempt to select a niche at the Palm, however, rather unfortunate.

By today's standards, machine more than the weak: frankly slow 49MGts RISC processor NEC VR4111 obviously "not pulling" when working with and so very leisurely Windows CE, monochrome screen is 240x320 pixels, though with a backlit, but also clearly too small for this OS, one of the Its main advantage is still considered a resemblance to the "desktop" Windows (which is not too feels at ease and at screen resolution 800x600 pixels). The device had 8MB of RAM and 8 MB of ROM, serial and infrared ports, could work with the cards Compact Flash. Also had a microphone and speaker for recording / playback of sound, which made it possible to use the device as a voice recorder (although not for long - in 8MB of memory does not sound much vpihnesh). The design of the motherboard rather unpretentious: the left is a compartment for compact flash cards from the top headphone jack, controls (including jog-switch for scrolling) and two compartments for the batteries. In the upper left corner of the infrared port (transmitter and receiver). In the center of the board - the most interesting: removable mini-board ROM. The presence of this removable board suggests that the Casio planned to release ROM with the new version of the system to upgrade the PDA, but as far as we know, this was not done. White trail connects the different parts of the board. Fee to all other bilateral, on the other side is the memory chip (center), bottom right - the processor NECVR4111. Nice family of Palm is highly conservative with respect to the hardware. Over the past few years, "stuffing" Palm'ov not undergone any significant change in how: all the same long-obsolete 16-bit processor, Motorola DragonBall, the same screen with a resolution of 160x160 pixels. Of course, image quality was better, but this change is more evolutionary in nature. Also changed very little operating system - it continues to single-tasking, it lacks built in support for external media cards such as Compact Flash, not provided by other screen resolutions other than 160x160 pixels. Nevertheless, "plug-in organizer" Palm has more than half of global PDA market.Palm devices have a standard graphical touch screen, serial port RS-232 and an infrared port, from 2 to 8 megabytes of RAM, and around 1 MB flash ROM, which stores an operating system (there is also a model with a non-modifiable ROM, for example, Palm M100 or Palm IIIe ). Flash memory allows you to easily update the operating system as new versions. Osnovnyemi trumps Palm has always been small size, fairly easy-entry system Graffiti, perfect synchronization with desktop PCs and almost complete openness of the system, which makes it extremely attractive to developers - and for the Palm has created tens of thousands of applications for all occasions. Now look inside, starting with the older model Palm III.

Here everything is all up to primitive simple: in the very center of the board is a processor Motorola DragonBall - the heart of all PDA Palm. Processor, this is remarkable, and that includes everything needed to operate a device: the actual processor and LCD controller and memory. Therefore, it is virtually the only major chip on the motherboard. Everything Else - ancillary items such as coordinated resistors, capacitors and inductors. To the left of the processor is a backup battery that allows you to replace the main batteries without losing any of the figures feeding for a short time memory. Board located on the right rotary control screen brightness, below the battery compartment on the left connector for the LCD screen. At the bottom of board serial port RS-232, which is usually used to exchange with PCs (for the aid of a special docking station or cable HotSync), or an external peripheral (eg, modem, pager or other device, SlyFox, for whom "the third series of" Palm image do a great many). At the top of the board - slot for memory modules. And finally, Palm V - the most "advanced" to date technologically model of Palm Computing.

The design of the motherboard is somewhat more complicated than the Palm III - to take at least the fact that the motherboard is now composed of several parts connected by a cable-trains. In the bottom center of all the same Motorola DragonBall, the truth is more "cute" (than the Palm III) performance. Again, this is almost the only large chip on the motherboard. To the left of the CPU chip RAM, above the flash ROM on the right (under the CPU) - "pill" back-up battery (by the way, the Palm V is no replacement batteries - in this model is used batteries). In the left part of the board - serial port RS-232, beneath them control chip (UART). By the way, due to non-Palm III form factor Palm V is completely incompatible with the periphery, although recently there have been special adapters that allow to solve this problem. As can be seen in the photo, the board consists of two halves, linked to each other cables. Over the connectors connecting cables are located the most important - the button Reset :-), but at the very top of the board - a connector for the screen. At the completion of the review - "The English Patient" Psion Series 5mx. British company Psion PLC - the actual founder of the "genre" PDA. That Psion released in 1982. Organizer, is the first mobile information device.

Psion Series 5mx has 36MGts processor ARM710T, which allows him to fast enough to handle most tasks. Despite the ridiculous by today's figures clock, these devices have to cope with cases faster than the bulky PDA running Windows CE with its hundreds of megahertz.EPOC32 operating system company Symbian (a consortium of companies such as Psion, Nokia, Motorola, Ericsson, Matsushita) is exceptionally reliable and easy to use. A distinctive feature of the Psion devices has always been a case design - each device has some "spice" that makes it unique - whether it be slide-out keyboard or a contraption to mount the screen. Alas, these ingenious notions were not always strong. Design Boards particular complexity is no different. In the center of the board - the heart of the device - processor ARM710T. Processor, this is remarkable in that it is also integrated display controller, memory, etc. This minimizes the set required for operation of the device chips. To his right, apparently, the controller Compact-flash produced by NEC, has the right - a memory chip (RAM). The photograph shows the device Psion Series 5mxPRO with 24Mb memory - Option Series 5mx without ROM, in which the operating system is loaded into RAM from a memory card or via serial port, which, in theory, allows you to update your operating system, such as a Palm. The photograph shows the free space for one more memory chips - apparently it is used in newer devices with 32MB of memory. At the bottom board is a chip operating system loader (a small amount of ROM). Next to her switch, which is used to turn off the device when closing the lid, or vice versa, to include at opening (depending on what the user wants - it's all customizable). White connectors on the left are used to connect the keyboard and screen. In the upper left corner - the serial port RS-232 and IR, underneath chip control port (UART). A number of "needles" on the right - slot for Compact Flash, but in the right part of the board - a microphone and micro-switch that determines whether the card slot is open Compact Flash. Everything else - service circuits and components such as resistors, agreed. Sources, Materials:

The patient will live ...

Try this method in the majority report on the successful outcome of the operation. "Patient" as if recovered :-) On the other hand, it helped amateur intervention, not all PDAs, and some have even led to additional complications. So to apply the method of Mr. Omaha can be at your own risk. There are also reports that this problem is not limited to PDA series Palm m500. Here are just some c guest's forum PalmInfoCenter owners PalmOS - Pocket PC, are experiencing such difficulties.

Well ...

That positive feedback from users about the proposed solutions. "I have everything worked - wrote one of them .- On Friday afternoon I began to drain the battery, on Saturday at seven in the morning put the PDA to charge and two hours later it worked. It has been only one day, and so far I have not mentioned any problems with the batteries. Twenty-four hours of discharge helped my m505. Five minutes later, charging cradle, he perfectly synchronized to USB ". And here is what another owner Palm'a, try this method: "When I have this problem, I contacted technical support Palm. They have not said anything about problems with USB-syncing, but suggested that I change my PDA. I Send me a new m505, so that I spent two weeks paid them back the old one. I transferred all data from the old to the new m505, and a couple of days, he showed the same problem. But the old Palm, which I have not had the time to send in company, after the application of this method is fixed, and now I'll leave it to itself, but the machine that sent me a replacement, and went back. "

... If not a "but "....

Discussion Forum debugging USB-synchronization led to another topic of conversation. This is a problem that may arise from any PDA owner. So read on. "Perhaps this advice and good, but check it out, I can not, because the cradle" burned "USB-port on my motherboard. Fortunately, I have promised to change it under warranty, but I now generally afraid to use the handheld. The situation is aggravated complete lack of technical support of the Palm ", - continues the theme of another user. That's what tells him another: "Yes, the situation is familiar, some complained about a similar problem with a serial port. It is best to disconnect the power cord synchronization cradle. You can also connect the USB-cradle in a hub, rather than on the motherboard - then the danger would only be he said. And I've got last week from the USB-cradle m505 burned a port on the motherboard. Everything seems to work properly, when I decided to sync and put the handheld in the cradle. Immediately the lights go out on my USB-mouse, the synchronization does not start, and USB scanner is also no longer works. The main thing now is not clear: whether to change the motherboard, or a pipe, or something, and another. " But more concrete advice how to act in such a case: "My motherboard is Abit KT7A also lost the USB ports after sync with cradle m500, but since the reliability of USB on motherboards that use chipsets from VIA, was always not up to par, I'd prefer not to change fee, and buy a $ 30 PCI-adapter USB 2.0, which is much cheaper than buying a new motherboard. Add from myself that the problem USB-cradle and motherboards in mind. In California, even filed a lawsuit against Palm, which the company blamed its cradle that cause damage to the motherboard, specifically the integrated ports. In fact, to blame not only the developers Palm. Apparently, USB-ports "burn" due to static electricity, which damages the cradle, and he has, in turn, affects the ports on the motherboard. As confirmed by representatives of most Palm, the problem lies in the cradle, so users of Windows and Mac PCs exposed to it equally. USB devices are equipped with a chip that produces the identification of the components, trying to establish a connection. If the chip stops working, the connection is impossible. Older vehicles used a USB-cable in the original "sequential" (designed to connect through Com-port) cradle. The latter were not exposed to such danger, because they simply did not have such a chip that has a lot of chances to fire when struck by static electricity.Different users accumulate unequal amount of static in the workplace, so some have never experienced such problems with the m50x, and others suddenly got a dead device. And not once, but several months later. Actually, similar problem occurred in isolated instances of PDAs and other PDA makers on Palm OS-Sony, Hanspring, HandEra. True, under the influence of static electricity in these cases, c PDAs burned is not a port on the motherboard, and the handheld. We must assume that the design of m505 (with it often have problems with USB) admitted some mistakes that lead to a sad result of the above. In the USB-subsystem Palm m50x series used a chip that has no protection against static electricity (while almost all modern chips RS-232 have such protection). We can therefore say that "burns" the ports on the PC motherboard is not the cradle, as such, and static electricity. However, users of this no easier. Company engineers were required to provide such a problem. Instead, Palm developers say that they have in the laboratories of static electricity is almost entirely absent, and therefore detect spelling they could not. Technical support company denies the existence of this problem.

A slight digression ...

Allow ourselves to digress from the main theme. Static electricity is generally known as an enemy of electronics. In the U.S., for PC assemblers produced even a special wrist strap. In Russia, the collectors solve this problem the old fashioned way: to the process relating to arms anything metallic, such as the casing on your computer (captured, of course). Known cases of damage as a handheld and desktop computer due to static, and with similar histories. User electrified (in one case it was the owner of the Palm IIIxe perestilal at home carpets, in the other - the owner of the Palm Vx was playing with the dog), then installed your Palm PDA into the cradle. -Cotton, a spark burned a device ... Sometimes burns jack PDA, sometimes the port on the motherboard "big" computer. This, of course, a few cases, one might say extreme. But in any case of suspected increased amount of static in the room should be somehow "reset" it before you take on your PDA.

... Satisfactory

"I used this method and it works. But, unfortunately, after I became a very warm Palm. Also, the batteries have to sit on their own. If I do the evening charge the PDA and then leave it overnight outside the cradle by morning it is completely discharged, "- wrote the angry owner. Another echoed him: "I have twice with different m505 case, the same problem (a quick battery discharge / heat PDA). Now I have three. First, I worked six months, the second - per month. I have heard stories about at least three similar cases. And I made no attempt to discharge the battery or hard / soft reset - it all happened very suddenly and. This indicates some problems with the batteries installed in series Palm m500. I had a same problem with batteries two m505. Moreover, cradle is not here and, because the third m505 quietly working with the same cradle. Yes, and I do not even use the USB-connection, and synchronize via a serial interface. I have heard that hard reset (hard reset) Palm'a standing in cradle, will help in this case - will fully recharged batteries.

Clinical death? ..

In the forum as usually happens in such cases would, and one cry for help: "Help!" After using this method in my Palm all the time freezes, as if I clicked the "shortcut .1" in Notepad. Rebooting does not help - Palm hangs after a few minutes after downloading. " Immediately offer him a shock therapy: "We should try to make a hard reboot (hard reset), by simultaneously pressing the power button and the Reset button on the back of the Palm. Then it makes sense not to synchronize immediately after booting and see if everything is OK with standard applications. If it still freezes, it makes sense to apply to the Palm in exchange for working. If not - the matter of third-party programs, so it makes sense to install them one by one to figure out which one is causing the problem. "And another tip end: "I have achieved the desired effect, not fully discharging the battery, simply remove it. To do this, I opened the back door and pulled out a Palm with a fully charged battery for several minutes. It worked." As we see, the problem is solved by the above method. Regardless of its application, there is a likelihood of damage to the USB ports on the motherboard, especially when using a chipset from VIA. In this case, it makes sense to disable time synchronization cradle power cable. Software solution for today does not exist. In Palm m500 series are present also some problems with the batteries, which are expressed in the loss of capacity and a strong increase of the device. We must assume that this problem also has little to do with USB-syncing and discharging batteries, but for people cautious (or simply do not have enough time) have the opportunity to resolve the difficulty by simply pulling a few minutes the battery is not discharging it. Unfortunately, even in countries where the representation Palm agree to change the broken device to working order, it makes sense to use this method, since there is a high probability of occurrence of the same problem with the new handheld. Sources, Materials:

You think it will all be worn?

The original is on the site KompyuFerra

Bernd Widmann (Bernd Wiedmann) worked as general manager in the company of Xybernaut, which supplies portable computers, so it is a sample of his iron just brought a sort of pun to the Editor. In fact, he appeared - with German punctuality exactly at the agreed one month prior to this time - with a suitcase of goods, some of which aytemov getting any at appropriate moments, and formed by the end of a conversation at an editorial desk a hefty pile. - Mobile Assistant is primarily intended for use where up to an ordinary computer - even scratchpad - hard to reach. Such a device is much more convenient if you creep under the bridge to check its condition, or you climb on a crane, and see how it broke. If you chinish machines or check the status of the pipeline, the laptop is usually nowhere to put too.

The processing unit MA IV

While Widmann all this tells me polutorakilogrammovy fasten a belt with "Mobile Assistant" and wore a headband with a headphone, microphone and display (for detailed specifications, see the table at the end of the material). Widmann presses a button, and before his right eye, I have a semi-ghost-booting Windows 98. Half of our conversation, I still will sit there, eyes periodically by focusing on the screen, then at his companion, and - visually - not feel uncomfortable, though after a while tired of the headband. Ergonomics. Meanwhile, Kozlowski, meticulously glance at the attached replicator with a bunch of different ports, is, apparently, is pleased: "All there is, and if something does not attach itself to blame." In support of Widmann gets a whole heap of communication PCMCIA-prilad.

Mobile Assistant IV in the collection

- In the office, you can use a regular Ethernet, a short distance - RadioLAN, and on the spot - GSM. I do send mail, while I was in Nizhny Novgorod. About having not fully portable form replicator Widmann explained that the connector can attach smaller replicators to meet specific needs: USB only or two serial ports, etc. In Xybernaut has offices in America, Europe and the East. I ask about the target end-uses of their products. - It's manufacturing and communications industry. There are companies that sell equipment worldwide. Imagine what service the car anywhere in Lebanon or Afghanistan. And so - you can take a picture and immediately sent her home, or to consult on the network, or learn how ...

Headband with an attached (right) video camera

On the table there is a USB-camera mount for headband: Widmann instantly attaches it to the "Assistant" and starts some software to demonstrate in their work. - ... And while this is our main consumers. Also showing interest in new media (New Media): Journalists, sending messages to the places they want to use our equipment for live reports on the web. The resolution of the camera is not enough for the TV screen, but for Web-photo or video - at the time. I got used to the strange "mouse" and keyboard, he manage to run a video that tells about the happy owner of "assistant" with some American "Hammer and Sickle." Unable to stand, interested in the price of equipment workplace. - Prices from 3800 dollars in its basic configuration up to 7000 in full.In Russia, a number of industries can spend so much on the equipment of a workplace - from railroads and finishing services, rescue and gas industry: all those who service points scattered throughout the country, and the number of qualified specialists is very limited. Trained engineers are much easier to sit at home in Moscow and have three to four staff with basic skills, but do not know to perfection of a device. I try not to show doubt about the solvency of rescue services (the nearest of which there is no money even to buy equipment to retrieve a kitten from the garbage disposal), but still questioned how successful was the trip to the Lower and Moscow.

- The purpose of the first visit was to establish relations and meeting with partners for pilot projects. And - to find business partners who would want to install your software on our system and sell ready-made solutions. Some meetings were very encouraging: I showed the equipment and hear ideas about how it will go in this market. Now waiting for business proposals. We never engaged in direct sales, we are working with partners, as end users interested in complete solutions. - And what can bring a partner? - Specialized software is of two kinds. First, specific to particular industries and particular customers. Secondly, associated with speech recognition and text in Russian. Here are two important things we are lacking. Continue the conversation turns into a more interesting direction. When Widmann enjoys, in his excellent English speech appears intelligent light German accent. - I also met with software companies that do interesting things with animated tours, and labor training in virtual reality. What they do, applicable throughout Europe, and I'm always interested in finding a new technology - the software or hardware - which could be promoted in the West.

- OK, but until I see the normal desktop under Windows or under Linux. A positioning device requires a certain shift of the interface paradigm. Have any ideas? Widmann laughs: - It is on this issue we are working with more than twenty universities and institutes around the world. Now we have invested in the development of basic software that allow you to run a car, register to restore the state after the error, reboot, etc., with the voice, without a keyboard. We want to speech engine thrust deeper, into the nucleus.

I hesitate to start the voice raspoznavalku. May crawl under a bridge in the headband and comfortable, but unaccustomed to half an hour in the room is already a burden, and I switch the output to a portable sensitive screen - it reminds me sprawling to the obscene Rex. Widmann explained that there is a "day" high-brightness display with which you can read in the sun, but it is heavier, so we did not bring it. - And we are actively cooperating with investigators in the field of applications that use location data (location-aware applications). So, combining global positioning, and image recognition from the camera, the device would know about where you are and what you are doing. And - what is the problem. Then it will be able to guide you, saying, for example: "You're at this point, but one has to go into that. To determine the route I'll show you a map on these points. And when you come into the room, I know the situation and can help you navigate within the that you took the correct position for inspection. "

And yet ... Well, a little keyboard you saw, but on track it's not too convenient. We have other better ways to enter ... for example, gestures: "yes" or "no", "select", "photograph". We are working on how to use motion sensors. And here are important not so much technology as the proximity to the user and understanding his work. The machine will be with the user anywhere, it will continually wait for commands, and it is very important to make the interface as can be less intrusive. Perhaps this is best understood in the aviation industry. - And what about imaging? - That's why I mentioned the Russian company that creates a virtual environment, removing real and adding to it visual services. For example, you walk through the plant and see on the screen of this same plant with schematics or explanatory inscriptions and of themselves, walking on it ... - But it will have to make the device much more powerful? - Yes. We are working on the application of PIII 400, and we have left a powerful graphics chip. But I always have to choose between power and energy consumption, lifetime batteries. Now when using the system at full capacity battery lasts four hours, and at times you can hook the two batteries. Batteries - is the weight, and it limits. Other restrictions - is the weight of the hard drive with shock-resistant mounting. And - "Mouse" on the body, from which we may get rid of, because it is an alternative type tviddlerov. Widmann gets tviddler - it seems this latest gadget out of his suitcase. Tviddler goes on her hands, look at, feels and, despite protests from the host ("Never do not show what I myself have not used!"), In the end, connects to the "Assistant" and demonstrates a willingness to work. I notice that, although unusual, this device is quite possible to learn a couple of days. - Yes, I saw people who masterfully managed to him. * Then the conversation turned to just have an informal channel: we talked about possible scenarios for the use of wearable computers, the adequacy of the interfaces on the pace of their implementation and a lot about. Widmann found it necessary to emphasize that "Assistant" is basically a "normal computer" with all its pleasant consequences for the cost of software development.

The main characteristics of a computer Xybernaut Mobile Assistant IV

Dimensions, mm	190x63x120
Weight "system unit", Mr.	900
Processor	Intel Pentium MMX 200 or 233 MHz
Memory, Mb	64-160
Hard drive	4.3 (upgrade up to 8)
Audio	duplex SB-compatible chip
Interfaces	2hCardBus Type I / II or 1xType III, the port replicator
Headband with display	monocular projection display VGA, headphone, microphone (optional) video camera, Weight 500 g
Hand display	6-inch touchscreen VGA; weight 520 g
Food	Lithium-ion battery weighing 460 g; combined charger / external power supply
Accessories	video camera, mini-port replicator mouse and keyboard, as well as serial and parallel ports; replicator COM, LPT, USB, VGA, and keyboard port, audio input and output; nazapyastnaya keyboard, belt mount, slip case
Software	OC Microsoft Windows 95/98/NT, or SCO UNIX, or Turbo Linux; IBM ViaVoice and Dragon; Xybernaut LinkAssist

Sources, Materials:

A sample monochrome handheld Compaq iPAQ

iPaq H3100 - democratic version of the popular Pocket PC company Compaq, which differs from other models of iPaq series primarily a monochrome screen. Democracy of this, however, a relative - retail price of the model in Russia exceeds $ 500.

Popularity iPaq line may be explained, perhaps, a combination of three factors: energy lithium-polymer battery - so no competitors (HP Jornada, Casio Cassiopeia); light weight - it's much easier for other Pocket PC (164 g), as well as the StrongArm processor 206 MHz - the fastest of all besklaviaturny used in handheld computers. This combination made the iPaq convenient, powerful and stylish handheld device. His style confirms iPaq and color (silver metallic), and the original control joystick button, which hides behind the speaker, and the method of removal of the pen from the body - at the touch of a small black buttons, he "shoots" up. Particularly pleased with the battery life - Compaq guarantees 14 hours of continuous operation of H3100, but my computer is left on for more than 15 hours in normal use corresponds to about a week of work without recharging. Say, users also enjoy the presence of colored model H3600 sensor that adjusts to the lighting display features. In black and white H3100, however, such a sensor is not present, and the display is not very good - the contrast is rather weak. In the model H3100 is half Memory - 16 MB. This is perhaps the most important drawback computer - applications under Windows CE is rather "heavy", and yet want more and write it (there is a built-in microphone) to listen to MP3-files that can be played using Windows Media Player via the built-in speaker or included headphones ... Not a bad sound quality, unfortunately spoiled by the fact that the Media Player crash when playing files with variable bitrate - jammed, jumping or even refuses to play. Another disappointment was the cradle device. To insert a PC, you need precise movements, just "throw" it into the cradle, as Palm, will not work - prevented guide pins. Synchronization with PC is the most common: It is possible via infrared, but only on the serial port speed (ie 115200 bps), as well as via USB. A few words to the side - on the synchronization of data in a Pocket PC at all. Standard tool for this program is Microsoft ActiveSync. It synchronizes with Outlook, as well, which is very valuable - any files, converting them, if necessary, in the format of handheld applications. This is certainly a big advantage compared to the Palm, where possible, for example, file synchronization Excel or Word to pickpocket, but some data formatting you still lost (by the way, the second definite plus - the Pocket PC is well open email attachments with files registered types). On the other hand, ActiveSync is a serious flaw: the program synchronizes only data of the main folders Outlook, the default settings for different types of data - Inbox for mail, for example. But when users work with Outlook, as a rule, create your own folders for the data. So, to still use the data from these folders on a Pocket PC, you will need third-party products, TrueSyns from Starfish, for example.

Convenient tool QUtility, built into the computer and developed the most Compaq. It really eases, such as closing applications, the Pocket PC for some reason, very cleverly realized: a tab running programs in memory settings. Using the same QUtility simply press the corresponding button on the case and choose from the menu that appears. Likewise, you can change the settings on your computer and run the necessary programs.In mid-March, the company Compaq has announced completion of a successful line of iPaq two models - H3635 and H3670. The first is already sold in the U.S., while the second will be in April. H3635 undergone homeopathic changes compared with the H3600: two new applications (full version of the game of golf and Peacemaker - an application to exchange data via infrared from your Palm or Psion), adapter-jacket to connect CompactFlash Type II cards in a set and a new flash ROM , changes which are not very clear. H3670 - a more interesting model in which the doubling of memory - up to 64 MB. It was rumored that Compaq uses this model and twice as fast processor at 412 MHz, but they have not been confirmed. The set comes a jacket under the PC Card and the actual Ethernet-card in this format. Doubling the memory is certainly a very useful innovation, which again raises above iPaq models from other manufacturers - none of the PDA is not 64 MB on board as standard. Incidentally, the recommended price of H3670 is also impressive - $ 650. Despite the technological leadership, a series iPaq is not without drawbacks, common to all models. For example, the penetration of dust under the protective glass screen. But now, like Compaq would have changed the vendor displays, and this shortcoming may be eliminated. The second drawback, irritating, probably only for gamers: the computer can not press multiple buttons (but in the pickpockets Casio simultaneous pressing of buttons is one of the ways you can get those or other applications). Not good for iPaq and the fact that it is expanding with the help of a rather clumsy jackets, which makes a computer twice as thick, besides it does not even have built-in modem (as opposed to HP Jornada). The new models architecture preserved. So that the competitors a chance to "move" iPaq, taking into account its strengths and weaknesses. Sources, Materials:

At first glance: REX 6000

In continuation of the story and mikroKPK (see article on Royal Vista), will discuss a relatively little-known in Russia device REX.

History REX

REX was first released in 1997 by Franklin under the wing of the Citizen. Franklin was by this time more than a decade of experience in the development of devices with its own rather complex software. According to some of its parameters REX few ahead of its time, but along with it in its very concept existed global failures. The developers decided that it is not necessary in such devices include any input method other than sync, thus saving on size. However, users did not agree to lose the input information using a pen or keyboard and chose a much more cumbersome handheld PalmPilot. Attempt to exclude such a disadvantage "for cheap" was made in 1998 when he was released on REX Pro (aka Xircom REX 5000). Besides the usual improvements to memory and speed protsesoora, in these devices has been provided for the input. But how ... The symbols were chosen from the plates by means of two buttons with arrows. On the speed and convenience of this approach, I think, to speak too. I can only note that, in early 1999, I came upon one of these PDAs and not made absolutely no impression.

By the way, nothing like interface REX 5000? Yes this is Royal Vista! Only on Vista application icons some very very primitive, and the very recently released Vista, and not three years ago. Shortly after the REX Pro by Franklin began to suffer losses and laid the blame on the division of REX, which was the autumn of 1999, successfully sold the company Xircom. I must say that the latter had a wealth of experience in the design of various equipment format PCMCIA (modems, network adapters, etc.), but absolutely no practice in the development of application software for devices such as REX. What happened as a result of long and laborious work Xircom?

REX 6000

REX 6000 can not be called simply a logical development of previous models. This is a completely new device, which fully can already be called handheld computers. He has a file system and the ability to add additional software. Standard PCMCIA imposes stringent restrictions on the dimensions of the device, as well as constructive, the shape of the connector temperature requirements, etc. Sure, the developers well coped with the task of combining all of the above with the conceptual ideas about the functional requirements of the CPC and the ultimate cost. The result is a fine example of modern engineering and technological ideas.

A surprisingly high-quality screen with a visible area size and resolution 53h32mm 240x120 pixels takes up almost the entire area of the CCP. Traditional touch button quick access to applications are clear and easy to use. Five multi-buttons to the right of the screen allows you to make the following steps (from top to bottom): on / off / go to the main screen, return to the previous screen, enter the confirmation / choosing (analog Enter); arrow up; arrow down. Convenient to use the buttons, but sometimes they do not work the first time. The process of navigation is logical and simple, works well. For example, to find a contact to select the address book icon (but still faster to click on the icon with your finger or fingernail to press the appropriate button below the touch screen), select the arrows at the top of the first letter of last name (they are triplets) and press Enter.In this case, a list of retired names will be updated and the socket with the letters will change - it will first letter of the next one, and then and a couple of letters. Thus, the search for the contact takes very little time, even if a lot of contacts. Speed rendering images on the screen is small - it is apparently due to low performance processor and is directly related to the problems of reducing energy consumption. The device is powered by two batteries in 2016. According to the manufacturer they should last for about 6 months. I had to replace the batteries after two months of pretty heavy use: using acoustic signals, multiple synchronization, etc.

By the way, the principles of construction of the device. User data is given 2 megabytes of flash-memory. This type of memory-volatile, that is, with no power information is not lost. You can safely remove the batteries for a month or two. Such an approach is very advantageous when the device is mainly used to view data. When using volatile memory (such as a Palm), battery life is used to store data even when power is turned off, but the rate of writing data to such memory is higher than in the flash-memory. In the case of REX battery power off is spent only on timer operation. For saving energy (and hence the size) have to pay a low rate of recording in the memory and increased during the recording power.

Embedded applications

Overall impression of embedded applications - well-designed, not raw, but it requires further improvement. In all applications through a special menu Edit function to the clipboard. There is a very handy feature: if the main screen click on the current date on top, there will be combined to do list and tasks for today.

Calendar

Well. Convenient system for the appointment of the new developments: All parameters are set easily from one screen form. Events can be recursive, that is repeated at regular intervals. As a reminder about an event you can set the tone, unfortunately, the only one. Generally, tones are not loud and pushy (subject to finalization in the next REX). Of course, provides for the withdrawal network of events for the week, month. Application performance is satisfactory, only the operations for adding, editing events take decent time (about 3 seconds).

Contacts

Good and convenient. As mentioned above, the search for the desired contact is plain and fast. Sorting can be done by name, by name or by company name. The second column in the list can be either phone or email. Go to a specific contact, too, does not take much time. The bottom four reed: phones, all of the work, all about home, Notes. Fields for entering a lot, plus notes for each contact, plus the ability to categorize contacts (more than 16 categories).An interesting feature: each contact can be assigned to multiple categories, not just one, and rightly so! Record ready to contact the memory takes about 2-3 seconds. There are also problems. If you enter the contacts, say, about a hundred pieces displayed in the Info amount of memory grows quite adequately the actual amounts of information. In this case, helps defragment memory, which can be run by REX Tools, but only when the PDA is connected to a desktop computer or laptop. Generally, this applies not only to contacts, but also to any other records that you type directly on the PDA.

Case

Good, modestly and tastefully. All you need to do list, there is. Each case, you can set priority: high, low or normal. There is a completion date of the case, you can assign a sound alarm. Each case, we can associate a note. Displaying information in the main view is well thought out and constructed.

Notebook

Here there is perhaps the first serious questions. The process of editing the notes (generally, anywhere, in any application) is not obvious. In the process of adding a new note, there is a virtual keyboard on which he typed text that appears right there in one row, and the transition to a new line denotes a special character. If the line is long, moving from, say, its the end of the beginning is only possible with the arrow keys. Overlapping arrows on the virtual keyboard is not provided. But this stuff. And here the most unpleasant thing is that when you start to edit old notes, the window for the text on the virtual keyboard will appear ... is empty! All points in this case is inserted into the body of the note where was the last time the cursor. If something needs to be removed, then we must select the desired fragment, and either cause a virtual keyboard and then get out of it by clicking OK, or choose the Edit menu click Cut. Very inconvenient, definitely needs some work. Otherwise, Notepad is similar to other applications, the categories sorted alphabetically and so on.

Web [user notes]

A special application that allows you to share Web-content through the site Rex.net. When you select "Synchronize with rex.net" (in Intellisync, Preferences) after downloading the data PIMa, carried out on site www.rex.net, from which automatically loaded diverse news content. If the computer is connected to Rex, does not have access to the Internet, then after a minute or two, the system reports that a synchronization of Web-content is impossible. To access this free service, users must register on the site rex.net. After that, you can choose from a small but very useful list of news. Briefly column are as follows: U.S. News, World News, Business News, Politics, News, Science and Technology, Health. Each section contains 4-8 news. Materials are loaded only in text mode (saving fierce!) And are available off-line through the menu Rex Web -> News. Useful for those who want to practice their English and for those who want to "be aware of." For example, I enjoy reading them while flying in an airplane. Incidentally, when downloading web content is automatically optimize memory (defragmentation).

Calculator

Nothing remarkable, the most common calculator to 9 characters. Slightly slows down the operations of extracting the square root.

Hours

All of the standard map of the world, a home and a guest of the city, dark and light part of the world. List of cities is very small, its not add, but in vain, would be a useful feature.

Installation

Set the time format of its presentation, sound, battery status, setting a password, user information, device, and more. All items are working without errors, the settings are not very many, but they are all on the merits.

Additional applications

Like any device with the proud title of the CPC, REX allows you to install additional software. Just click on the tab Extras on the main screen, and you will see an icon set of additional programs. A few were surprised that REX allows you to install only eight applications at once. If you want to add something else, kindly remove something old. Apparently, this problem can be solved, but ... there will need tools for them later.

Additional software is not enough. Several dozen. The majority - in the Japanese language for the model of REX, which is produced in the domestic Japanese market. English-language applications, too, have, but very little.

Synchronization

Synchronization software that came with the REX, called Intellisync. The kit includes Intellisync for Rex, Intellisync Mobile Desktop, Rex Tools. What's interesting is that each of these components created by different companies. If you look in the windows "About", then you can easily find that the authorship of the components, respectively, distributed among the Xircom, Puma Technologies, and Citizen Watch. Such a collection of guards: the components written at different times, whether the synchronization is correct and clear?

Synchronization is possible directly through the PCMCIA slot, as well as a special cradle for COM-port and USB-port. Cradle for COM-port requires additional power - the four elements of AAA. Used to synchronize mininoutbuk Palmax PD-1000 with a PCMCIA slot and Windows 98 Rus. Installing the software is only correct in the process offered a choice of either install their own application PIM Intellisync, or used as a PIM Microsoft Outlook, or do not synchronize with any application, but simply to make backups. Basically, I was interested in the ability of Intellisync Mobile Desktop, so I chose the former. Upon completion of installation requires a reboot. After rebooting the system tray icon appears with the inscription REX - a system for fast start synchronization, are similar to those for the Palm and other PDAs.

Intellisync for Rex

This component is directly responsible for the synchronization with REX PIM on your PC.

REX insert into the slot PCMCIA, appears on the taskbar icon, a standard PC Card card, you can start a synchronization. For the first time synchronization software offers a set of data flows in a rational way.Change anything in the settings is not required because everywhere default is two-way synchronization of records.

Included Intellisync 1.01, which was released during the time of writing, we fixed some annoying bugs, and synchronization is now a very pleasant procedure. In particular, when using a previous version of the overall synchronization time was surprisingly long (about 8 minutes!), But now the whole process takes about 40 seconds (total records in the applications was about 40). At the same time, a situation arose when two applications try to work together with the inserted into the slot REX. Ended it with a bit hanging Palmax, but the system has withstood: apparently, the application themselves apprised of the conflict.

By the way, Palmax already installed software for synchronization with Palm, Epoc and Windows CE, any trouble in connection with this circumstance arose.

Intellisync Mobile Desktop

Simple and of good application for those who do not use any other PIM. Nothing much can be said, but all PIM functions are performed with a decent quality and stability, duplicated the work of all PDA applications.

Problems at work were found. The interface is convenient and simple, without any frills. Unfortunately, synchronization Intellisync Mobile Desktop must be closed.

REX Tools

Special application performs a series of auxiliary functions: memory defragmentation, data change on vladaeltse, correction of the current time, the firmware of the new operating system image.

This component is generally created in the depths of Citizen

Synchronization [Notes Users]

REX correctly fulfills her and through COM, and through the slot PCMCIA. However, in the case of the latter, I highly recommend to be sure that the machine does not overheat in the slot. As we know, there are many laptops that are subjected to strong heating of the inserted card. The result - failure of the card. So I prefer COM cradle. The delivery of a set of drivers version 1.0. After reinstalling the driver version 1.01 the synchronization process has accelerated markedly. And another thing: I rarely seen such a detailed and descriptive instructions on how to uninstall the old drivers and installing new ones. That "get it", so is the need for manual adjustment of the synchronization options in case the user has more than one mailbox on the office computer. Admittedly this is done once, but the error cost me a loss of some contacts. The situation is almost standard: the mailbox is on the server, and a copy (or fragment) is on a local disk. In this sinhronihatsiya server and local boxes can be "manually". Contacts, business and other data can be entered in English and Russian.And here it begins ... When you install the synchronization options REX tries to automatically determine (in the version 1.1 drivers only!), Those folders will be taken from raw data to be synchronized. If the "yawn" this time, it may happen: after synchronization REX receives the data that are not up-to-date. Since he can easily "attach" to the directories with similar names (Tasks, Contacts ,...) in your Archived Folders, or in a local copy of the contents of the mailbox. And instead of the Cyrillic alphabet will be visible "krokozyabliki. User cursing and dig deeper into the settings, does redirect to the correct directory, which stores information required for synchronization (I'm talking about Microsoft Outlook). And starts syncing again. REX before synchronization reads from a specially created file the results of the last synchronization, then the contents of the directory of the local machine and happily reported: that somehow there must be something to add, and then something out something should be erased. To celebrate "clicking" Accept, you can easily go without the necessary information. I for some reason when you sync to REX has not transferred a part anloyazychnyh contacts, and when re - REX kindly "updated" my contacts database on the local machine, cutting off part of it, "nowhere." To avoid this, before the first sync need to make sure that all contacts entered in English. It was their most painful loss since REX frivolously replaces contacts database by some strange symbiosis. It is desirable to do the same for the "Task / Del" and "Calendar." Therefore, when the window appears with a proposal to "add X, Y to remove the" must see "Details" of a tempting offer. Forward-Backup saves your data before first sync, and it is useful to reiterate the need for it! And finally, if the first synchronization REX incorrectly displays the data, it is necessary to make the initialization of the device ("carry all") in REX Tools, and then start all over again: First, configure the options sinhroniatsii, and then run it again. It's faster and safer than trying to edit the data manually. I happily got on together on one laptop and Active Sync for the Jornada 720, and Rex-synching. Operate normally, even at the same time!

For whom?

The main arguments in favor of the REX can be considered the size and weight. REX free to be placed in a shirt pocket, almost distorting its shape. That is, the emergence of the problem of "what to do?" unlikely. Foreign users coming to the REX, such as Palm, claim that they are now, finally, can carry around your PDA most of the time, rather than in the case of Palm. If you use a laptop, the REX may indeed be for you a real interest because it can be synced with a laptop, being inserted into the PCMCIA slot. REX 6000 is a handheld computer, and thus allows the installation of additional software. While there is the issue with the spread of SDK, and hence the appearance of additional software that has not been resolved.

Prospects

Prospects are vague. And depends mainly on the actions of the manufacturer. Most recently, Xircom was acquired by Intel, which further confused the situation with the REX. Let's look at the likely prospects for the future. One of the options for development - this version of Palm. In this case, the company's approach to your device must be both product-specific, but as a platform. Such a strategy is quite efficacious, Palm, known to dominate the PDA market. This was achieved through open platforms, accessibility and a wide variety of development tools, which in turn led to the involvement of a truly vast number of developers. A large number of software, even for the most part is pretty useless, is a powerful argument in favor of acquiring it platform PDA Palm. Recently, the platform appeared licensees, which in large part for his innovative ideas indicate the direction of the company Palm Computing. So the first step "platformizatsii" - is the proliferation of open-development toolkit (SDK + compiler + medium + tools) and at least partial information about the "iron" part (HDK + information about the chips used, architecture, etc.).Of course, both may occur without the aid of Xircom simply efforts of enthusiasts, but it will take time and some margin the most enthusiastic. By the time the REX as a platform can be completely wither. At the moment, the most recent responses from different departments Xircom questions of foreign users were two diametrically opposite (not close to tesktu, but in essence): "Thank you for your interest in REX. Plans for the creation and dissemination SDK we have not." And the second: "Thank you for your interest in REX. Release SDK planned for the second half of 2001. Refine by rex.net." The second scenario - a variant of promoting REX, as a unit. The scheme is very simple: the device is finished to the point where on a plan the company is beginning to meet all the requirements of users of a particular group. The closest example - cell phones. Every model can perform several functions, but no more. Architecture, development tools, etc. - Everything is hidden and inaccessible. In order to develop successfully in this way requires highlight: the precise function of the device. In the case of REX, sadly, at this stage ... organizer. Yes, yes, the same electronic notebook. Only in the form factor PCMCIA, with an excellent screen, the ability to sync and costs about a hundred and fifty dollars. Where to move here, a few unclear. And another option - go to the corporate sector. Working with the vertical projects directly related to the ongoing refinement of products to the needs of the customer. In this case, in some areas REX may seem more attractive than, for example, the same Palm, not least because the platform will be the most closed.

The big race of small computers

Once it still would have happened. "Race megahertz - a contagious thing, and, alas, inevitable. Year by year, the processors of personal computers become more powerful, forcing software manufacturers at least some use of new opportunities. Now the turn and to handheld computers, and with them also to the numerous army "of computer-related" portable devices under the vague name of "gadgets" ...

The British company ARM, specializing in the design of microprocessors for portable digital devices, announced a new processor family, ARM11. The first industrial batch processor XScale, which uses architecture ARM11, will be released towards the end of the year (fourth quarter 2002) Corporation Intel, and with them are likely to appear and the first devices based on them. In the production processors will be used 0.13-micron technology, which will disperse the most successful instances of up to 750 MHz. In the foreseeable future, with the transition to 10-micron process, according to experts ARM, clock speed will be over 1 GHz. Completely unclear what to do with a similar margin performance. But it is not clear just from the height of the current level of industrial development of portable computing. Tomorrow gigahertz handheld seem commonplace, and the next day cause irritation of insufficient speed. All of these are typical signs of madness "megahertz race" ... From a user perspective rapid growth of computer performance has negative and positive sides. Everyone who owns a personal computer or use it at work for more than two years, knows how much it costs to constant updating of technology to try to keep a certain level of computing power. High-quality computer, assembled one of the reputable world producers, costs money, but depreciates so fast that after only six months, no punching in and half of its initial price. Slightly better is the case with self-collected cars, but this is not the most reasonable value for money - in terms of their savings. The positive side - thanks to fierce competition between manufacturers of components, upgrading of computers is relatively inexpensive. In practice, two years of operation, the computer in its modernization have to invest as much money as you need to buy a new car. True, these investments are stretched in time, and therefore do not become private (and corporate) user burden. You can also upgrade your computer is gradually replacing the graphics accelerator, sound system, processor or hard drive consistent financial opportunities ... What do the user handheld machine, device or "smart" phone? Portable Equipment lived much longer than the PC. Many owners of the first Palm Pilot `s and now work with their machines, without feeling a special need to replace the computer. Even in a family of Pocket PC PDAs difference between the first Palm-size and modern models are not so big to think seriously about the urgent replacement machines (any upgrade is simply not possible). What to say about simple machines Palm, whose programs undemanding to computing resources? .. Time takes its toll and we do not consider a PDA only as a dock or a PIM means quick access to the stored textual and graphical information. Today, the CCP is capable of playing digital music and video, run the game and display full-color graphics. All this represents a considerable burden on the CPU, although the applications themselves are still significantly inferior to similar programs for personal computers - primarily because of the strict hardware limitations. However, it does not lack handheld machines, as they feature. Low screen resolution (from 160x160 to 240x320 pixels - a computer with a touch input information) is due to its small size.To play a movie with a similar resolution sverhproizvoditelnogo processor is not required. Same with sound, and gaming applications. Textured games, if any, in versions for Pocket PC (such as would have appeared), large capacity requirements of the processor fails to present - even if that rendering will be done exclusively in software mode (not insert the same in the Pocket PC special graphic accelerator). But in a real operation is not so simple. Sufficiently powerful family of handheld computers Pocket PC 2002, equipped with processors with such frequency over 200 MHz, significantly retarding while rendering graphics, playing video files or running complex games. This can be blamed for the imperfection of the software, but programs for the PC, too flawed. However, we can not accept delays in their implementation and immediately think about upgrading your computer. In the case of the CCP, we have to be content with what we have. There is one circumstance that makes the manifold increase in processing power for handheld computers inevitable. The future of the CCP - integration with wireless devices. Today, every (or almost any) Pocket PC you can turn your device through plug-in GSM or cell phone with built-in modem and an infrared port. Tomorrow (or rather today) wireless module with support for GPRS protocols will become an integral part of any handheld computer. Moreover, it is inevitable and predictable process. Pocket PC and so is used for communication - as long as only a desktop computer to access the videos stored on your hard drive information. Agree that this supplement elementary function, coupled with a desktop or portable machine, mobile access to Internet resources - the dream of any user of a handheld computer. Actually, this was the basic idea designer of the first PDA - a versatile and extremely mobile tool to make your computer a truly personal and enables you to work anywhere, including on the road. Looking closely to the latest models of mobile phones, it is easy to see that they are moving closer to the handheld computers in terms of functionality, while gaining quality media - such as embedded MP3 players and color camera. Providing simultaneous (to the extent necessary, of course) of the mobile device - whether it's a smartphone, PDA or communicator - as a device for voice communication means for wireless data, color photos and, especially, video camera, voice recorder, audio player, digital VCR, game console and organizer - that's the problem for the XScale. Not for nothing that the company-developer declares support for new processors multitasking operating systems, multimedia applications, coding and decoding audio and video. With the release of ARM11 family processors booming market for mobile devices will receive an additional incentive. The same can be said about the industry of processors, because competitors would not doze off (unless, of course, Intel does not definitively establish itself as a monopolist). It seems that the stagnation that has gripped the past year or two high-tech industry, is nearing an end. Moreover, the main events will relate predominantly mobile devices. In fact, we observed a similar breakthroughs - more than doubled (from 400 megahertz processors family ARM9) increase the clock speed - a processor for personal computers? And the old CISC microprocessor architecture, which with each new implementation absorb only the elements of a more progressive (or fashionable?) Architecture RISC? Handheld computers have moved to RISC processors quietly and gradually. But moved it? Anyway - Pocket PC and communicators based on this platform. Following the ARM11 necessarily follow the next generation of processors. Their clock frequency will increase, although perhaps not so surprising pace. (And perhaps even more impressive than it is now - who knows?) By the way, the growth performance of processors for handheld still constrained and highly technological limitations. One of the main things - energy consumption, which have small computers should be minimal, and the closely related heat dissipation.True, ARM promises outstanding options for saving its processors and accordingly, no problems with heating. And what we get, the usual PDA users and potential buyers of new technology? Firstly, an additional reason to earn more, because ARM11 processor family will be produced primarily for mobile-class Hi-end. Secondly, a headache when choosing a device, because the diversity is expected unprecedented. Third, many rich portable devices with unprecedented capabilities - such as phones with built-in color camera, or handheld computers with TV tuners and video capture tools. More specifically still impossible, as it was impossible a few years ago seriously talk about a hybrid cell phone and digital camera. Well, who needs this expensive toy? Nevertheless the "toy" has appeared, had found their consumers, and even appeared in a number of commodities for which demand exceeds supply. By the way, digital photography from the introduction of mass-produced processors fundamentally different levels of productivity will benefit. In the amateur cameras of the middle class should expect to see more variety of processors, digital zoom, the new interpolation mechanisms to increase the resolution, regardless of physical ability photosensitive sensor camera. For professional equipment all of the above is unlikely to have any value, but performance processors will be useful here, since their ability to allow us to construct more sophisticated scheme of electronic image stabilization (shooting eliminate the effect of "shaking hands"), light metering and automatic exposure settings . And from an entirely unexpected one can mention the ability to input information into digital portable device (actually, not only for the PDA, but for the communicators and smart phones - anywhere you want from time to time to enter any text, such as the title tracks to iPods MP3) ... Perhaps it is due to new processors our pocket machines learn to recognize not only the individual letters (which they still do not really know how), but a cursory letter, getting used to the handwriting of the host computer and arranged under his arm, and not vice versa. And what's up with voice input, which exists only on desktop machines in the form of terrible quality trifle, but not as a tool for serious work? Imagine, you're mumbling into the microphone, and the on-screen handheld computer having a line of text ... That's where the freedom for creative people! Marina's crying and Dotsenko. So what-what, but naboltat couple of masterpieces of native literature can be in one evening. It would be a coma or, more precisely, what to write. The authors, translation:

Palm m505

Model m505, the newest in the line of Palm Inc., Unique in that it has a color screen and a slot for cards SecureDigital / MultimediaCard - all in a relatively small package (no more than the Palm V). Differences in size are minimal - in hand by turns one and the other one can only observe that the m505 a little thicker. The difference in weight is more noticeable - color screen with backlight make themselves felt.

Screen

The screen of this model has a standard for most Palm-device resolution 160x160. He began to cause controversy even before presentation to the public. People who saw him at the shows, could not converge in opinions. Someone insisted that the screen is muddy and difficult to read, others compared it with the iPaq and claimed that no one has such wonderful displays. It turns out that those were right, and others. Specificity of the used reflector screen is that it looks great, even with the bright sun! A flaming display Palm 3c for the fact that the colors fade in bright light.

True, one has only to enter the room, as m505 loses all its advantages: the image darkens, cease to be distinct. To return him to paint, you must turn on the backlight, which is not as powerful as the iPaq - size does not allow. So it is not only significantly reduces battery life, but do not always save the situation. In addition, the contrast is not configurable, and the famous black netting around the pixels, the scourge of low resolution color screens, though was gray, but not disappeared. Fortunately, the summer begins, sunny days will be enough - it's time to buy a m505 and enjoy its beautiful 16-bit screen capable of displaying over 65,000 colors. Photos, which can be viewed using the included software PhotoSuite, look great. And another nice detail - the graffiti area when you turn on lights, too, is highlighted.

SD / MMC slot

Handspring paved the way and now Palm is in her footsteps, adding to their new model slot prospective standard SD / MMC. Despite the fact that many firms engaged in the production of accessories and additional devices for Palm'ov, announced the development of relevant modules, they will appear more soon. This is largely due the fact that the standard SD / MMC not yet fully approved, and specifications may be changed or supplemented. So until that time slot can be used only c memory cards. As an option already available modules on which programs are written large. For example, maps of cities in the U.S. or the game.

Another interesting fact: 16 MB SecureDigital-cards, which offers a Palm, a user accessible only 14.6 MB. The remaining space is reserved for the protection of the content from unauthorized copying. When the card is inserted into the Palm, it automatically turns on. In the shell program introduces a new category of the same name, noted a small icon card. It put everything recorded on your program. They do not run directly from the map. Clicking on the icon of the application, it is automatically copied into RAM and run from there. It takes about a second, depending on the size of the program. After exiting the application, it also automatically erased from main memory. The good news is that the PalmOS 4.0 allows programs to work with databases located on maps of SD / MMC. Supplied with the m505 software, including Documents to Go and PhotoSuite, already use this feature. Old programs written for the PalmOS version 3.5. and below, such "skills" do not have their bases must necessarily be copied to main memory.However, the configuration parameters can be set so that the old program, or copied to main memory all of their libraries and databases at once, or load them one by one as needed. This lets you work with programs that are of a size exceeding the amount of free space in RAM. Of course, it's not as convenient as AutoCF, used by Handera. But given the fact that new programs are already able to store their data on maps, the problem is not here. By the way, Palm Desktop fourth version can save files not only on the Palm, but also directly on the SD / MMC-card. And now you can record not only files with PDB and PRC, but also any others. This feature PalmOS 4.0 is used, for example, a camera Kodak PalmPix devices m50x, which allows you to save photos to a memory card in the format of JPG.

Processor

The combination of 33MHz Dragonball VZ processor and the new m505 PalmOS 4.0 creates a large supply of power. The image on the screen is updated quickly switching between applications takes place without annoying delays. Apparently, the new version of the PalmOS has been some action to increase the speed of graphics operations. In general, we can say that performance is enough even for programs that operate on large databases or contain many graphics.

Battery

Requirements for battery m505 grow already from the use of more energy-resolution color display. Features screen forces the user to frequently sit and use the backlight. Despite this, the owners reported that, on one charge can work out a new Palm 5, 6 or even 8 or 9 hours - a very decent figure for a color screen. So if your cradle or a special charger for the day are not very far from you, then you're unlikely to encounter the problem of a completely discharged battery. The more so that charges up to 50% in 15 minutes, and fully charges the battery in an hour.

Calls, and alarm clocks

As well as a "little brother" m500, a new color model may announce the beginning of the meeting or important matter in three ways: using the normal "Tweeters", vibrating alert and flashing signal lights. Vibrating alert is very useful for those who do not want all turned around when the Palm is trying to recall something. A flashing light may be useful to someone, but rather it is just a little, but still a nice bonus. Call type is given for all programs at once. It's not very convenient as I would like to during an important meeting of the Palm quietly humming vibrating alert, recalling something, and next morning you woke with a loud beeping alarm. However, certainly in the near future will be written in the appropriate hack, so that experience in this regard is not necessary. Now, a reminder has built-in Datebook button Snooze (Take a nap), after clicking on which the alarm will not bother you for 5 minutes, and then again begins to ring. Again, unfortunately, a five-minute interval can not be changed.

Case and Stylus

Corpus, in contrast to the m500, is almost entirely metal. Feels that he is strong, solid. Plastic grooves to hold the stylus. Strange, but these grooves are different from the Palm V thickness and depth. Apparently, in accordance with its plan to squeeze out of the users as much money, they want to get to say goodbye with all accessories, bought for the Palm V. Includes stylus, carrying case and a voice recorder, which is inserted there. More unusual is that the left slot is shallower than the rule. In Palm m505 FAQ is explained by the peculiarities of the internal structure: some detail prevented the left slot to make the same long, as a rule. As a result, the pen can be inserted just right, the lid - just to the left. Again discriminated against lefties. In addition, m505 with great reluctance to part with what has been inserted into the groove. Many are literally broken nails trying to pull the stylus out of its socket. Stylus itself is a metal rod with two plastic taped screw [tricks]. Unscrewing the top, you'll see her pin, which is so convenient to press the button to your favorite Reset.

Credle

Credle new, connected to a port USB. Like I said, Palm m505 for everything keeps very tight - and for the stylus, and a cradle (c SD / MMC-card also need to be careful). Some buyers of freshly bought m505 tightly stuck in the cradle, as if glued.In order to get the Palm out, you need to strongly pull him over, while trying not to break anything.

Not for the faint of heart - some unfortunate when you try to remove the heard a noise like breaking off contact. Fortunately done without damage, but still just better to check this point in the store because some of the cradle do not have these drawbacks, and the Palm there is a part, and the great beyond. "

Cover

The set comes leather flip cover, which is inserted into the left slot for the stylus - to insert it into the right, you need to use force, but the word is not very well with prices in the $ 400-600. In principle, we can cut the tip of the probe cover, then he will go without problems and in the right slot. Unfortunately, the provided cover is hard, and there are no pockets in which it was convenient to put the memory card. The reason is simple, the site Palm cover with pockets is $ 29 - some customer care.

Universal Connector

Palm Inc, has always adhered to the rules: a new model range - the new connector. The company has not changed him, and this time, representing Palm m500, carrying on board is absolutely not compatible with older models, Universal Connector, and provoked a new wave of indignation.

True, it was the promise that this new standard will last at least two years. The same connector is a m505. The truth here is the devices compatible with it, no.

Conclusion

No matter what, m505 as a whole leaves a very pleasant impression. The screen is not perfect, like everything else in this world. Batteries do not work as long as a m500, but fast charging. Device for SD / MMC and Universal Connector is not, but always coming soon. This is the best Palm of all that exist at the time when I put this point. Point. Characteristics of devices Palm m500, Palm m505 Sources, Materials: