The third coming of Windows CE, or look at Cassiopeia E-115 Pocket PC

In mid-April, Microsoft held a noisy presentation of the latest operating system Windows CE 3.0 (brand Windows Powered). This OS was designed specifically for the new series of handheld computers (PDA) class Pocket PC. Microsoft and its partners have made considerable efforts to the fate of Pocket PC was more fortunate than their predecessors - PalmSize PC, the losers in competition with the popular computer-organizer, Palm.

The benefits of good heredity

One of the first Pocket PC was Cassiopeia E-115 - the continuation of an important family of handheld Japanese firm Casio. Structurally, Cassiopeia E-115 is an exact copy of the good old E-105. For those who are not familiar, a small excursion into history. About a year ago, the market PalmSize PC - Pocket PC with Windows CE, no keyboard - is closely several major manufacturers: Hewlett-Packard (model Jornada), Compaq (Aero), Philips (Nino), Everex (Freestyle) and Casio ( Cassiopeia). Was creeping struggle in which no one could achieve decisive success. It was not until the appearance of a truly revolutionary model Cassiopeia E-100. For the first time handheld computer was equipped with a decent color screen (active matrix, 65 thousand colors), large memory and powerful processor, capable of twisting MP3 and even digital video. It is utterly superior to all competitors. Initially, due to problems with the supply of high quality screens produce new Cassiopeia was small. But then it was adjusted, and the competitors fell on hard times. Last Six Months Casio completely dominates the market PalmSize PC, leaving rivals far behind. Cassiopeia E-100, and a sister E-105 constructed in a significant foundation for the future. This gave the Casio to rapidly produce a new class of device - Pocket PC - running Windows CE 3.0, without investing heavily in the development and modernization. What makes Cassiopeia E-115 was much cheaper than my classmates: Pocket PC from the Compaq iPAQ with a fashionable name and new Hewlett-Packard Jornada 500-series. In mid-May 2000, ie one month after the official presentation, Cassiopeia E-115 appeared in Russia. That's nice, because usually new items get to our country not so fast. I managed to get acquainted with this curious representative of the family Pocket PC. I'll try to talk about first impressions. The last few months in the world of pocket computers reigned revival. Cause it was a long-awaited announcement of a new, third "big" release of Microsoft Windows CE. According to disseminate information, increase the version number of the operating system almost yedinichku (from 2.12 to 3.0), the brand on the Windows Powered, and the names of computers on the Pocket PC - is not just a publicity stunt, but evidence of revolutionary change in the concept of Windows CE.

Pocket PC as it is

After hearing stories about the wonderful Pocket PC, I am in awe picked up a box with a Cassiopeia E-115. At first I was slightly disappointed and discouraged - apparently nothing has changed. Set in a box is exactly the same set of good old E-100. Exactly the same Cassiopeia, the same stand-cradle, the same CDs and documentation set. Take out the Pocket PC out of the box and turns it on. The screen is as good as the E-105. After admiring the screen saver on the excellent color screen, go to the procedure of the first set. We offer to do the calibration screen, enter the date, time, host country, etc.The new Cassiopeia, this procedure has a fun feature: a dialog button is missing Next (later). Only carefully to get a grasp of the English text, one can understand that we are asked to press the pen into the tablet on the screen and hold it a little by choosing from the menu, click Cut. In the next window, you must do the same action as choosing Paste. To overcome this step, the person who does not know English perfectly, it may take more than one hour. I note that the procedure for Russian users of the first set generally useless. The fact that Cassiopeia E-115 does not know about the existence of a country like Russia. To the regional units appeared cherished item Russian, you need to install special software-crack (see below). Be content until the default settings. Cancel and exit procedures for the first adjustment is impossible, but you can hit all the windows click Next.

Now you can work. Let's see what has changed in Windows CE, but numbers

The first thing that catches your eye - no famous vindusovoy "Start" button at the usual place in the lower left corner of the screen. Everything seemed turned on its head: the Windows box labeled "Start" moved to the top of the screen and lost the key - now it's just a picture and an inscription on a blue field. Command menu, by contrast, went down and located on the site of the old button Start. If a whole - Windows CE interface stopped copying large Windows. He lost three-dimensionality, becoming completely flat. This applies both to the appearance of buttons, windows icons, and the organization of control device. The developers explain the transition to a two-dimensional interface, the following circumstances. First, the optimization of the OS to improve speed and reduce the demands for hardware resources. Secondly, the fact that the interface should be simple and clear, even away from the computer man. We can assume that the recognition that the Windows-like PDA is not ideal, despite the complete resemblance to the big PC.

What exactly has changed in the interface?

Start Menu has lost cascaded to become one-level, as it did in Windows CE 1.0. In my opinion, this is not very good. Cascading menus - something comfortable, you can go to a program or setting up a minimal number of taps on the screen (usually only three). In the transition to a Pocket PC program is carried out as follows: from the Start menu item is selected Programs, opens a window with icons that look just like a window to launch applications Palm OS. Pressing the stylus on the correct icon, the program starts. The most needed applications can be placed directly in the main menu list on the Start. But if more than 10, the menu will scroll up and down, which is inconvenient. Another convenient feature, which was not in PalmSize PC - at the top of the Start menu will appear tiny six applications that call last. Cause the application by pressing the pen on the icon, which is extremely convenient. Go to Control Panel (Control Panel) is carried out similarly to calling applications. Quite clearly Programs window and Control Panel in its current form ripoffs with similar windows Palm. Subjective - peeled off rather badly and look foreign. Team menu is located at the bottom left. Instruction set - a standard for Windows, only they are much smaller. Some actions are not made directly to the menu, and are a kind of "second tier". Suppose, for switching encoding to Pocket Internet Explorer to select the menu Options, then in the dialog box, navigate to the Advanced tab and in the Language bar to select the encoding you want.I am such a system seemed uncomfortable - it is more convenient would be designed cascading menus, commands are terminated by necessity simple dialog boxes. Memory Cassiopeia E-115 is quite sufficient not only for stable and fast work computer, but also to accommodate the data, additional software and files MP3. And if the place is still not enough, you can boost memory by using the card Compact Flash. Very pleasant novelty Cassiopeia - built-in Windows Explorer (File Explorer), which shows the files and folders in a tree structure. Now, to work with files and folders (such as copying or renaming) is not necessary to resort to tricks, you just call the File Explorer. By the way, it is possible and open the files while running necessary programs. Strange, but still could not close the application when finished with it. That is fundamentally possible, but only as follows: choose the Start menu, click Settings, in the upload icon in the Control Panel, find the Memory and call up the system settings, go to the tab of the Running Programs (analog Task Manager), select closes the application, and then command the Stop. What prevented the usual make a cross in the upper right corner? Although it is not convenient, but applications from time to time need to be closed. Otherwise, nothing is consumed memory, and after a while Cassiopeia E-115 starts to work noticeably slower. What is permissible in single-tasking Palm OS, is not justified in claiming to be multi-tasking Windows CE. So it is impossible to comprehend the absence of the normal taskbar (Taskbar). Why to switch between running applications I have in fact each time to run them (ie, choose the menu Start)? After a full keyboard Windows CE Taskbar long been available, and then from it altogether abandoned. Save space on the screen that does not work exactly. Since Microsoft has not bothered to work comfortably with the applications have to look for the development of third-party products, offering a solution. And those already there, such as Gigabar and bTask. On-site cross that covers the application of Windows, Pocket PC is a round button OK. Appointment of it - closes the current document or window, saving changes. In this case, no question - save the changes or not - is not specified. This eliminates the unnecessary control movements and some speed up, but at first can be misleading. The button OK is the same in different applications and dialogs. Another completely new feature for Windows CE - all actions committed by one click on the screen (same one click). That is one pressing of the icon does not release it, and immediately calls the action (download the application, open the document, plowing the dialog box). Some time will have to get used to, but then you find that it's pretty convenient. If you do not take your pen immediately, but hold it a second or two, then the drop-down menu whose commands apply to the selected object. And lastly, that I wanted to say about the innovations in Windows CE. The operating system has become much less to ask questions. That is, for an action not required to repeatedly confirm that it actually needs to accomplish. It is very nice - finally users do not see the complete idiot.

A few words about ergonomics Cassiopeia E-115

Casio is proud of the fact that their PDA can be controlled in three ways: by rotating and pressing the wheel of Action on the left side devices Disk-joystick on the front panel, as well as with the stylus and onscreen controls. I tried all three ways, and, in my opinion, really works, only the last, or a combination with one of the first two. Without a pen you can get to write in the address book, open and read documents, etc. More convenient to browse page e-book. But as soon as you begin typing, editing, and generally any serious action - reach for a pen. Even before the command menu without a pen to get failed.In addition to the Action and drive round the joystick, Cassiopeia has few external controls: a button that causes the Start menu button and start the voice on the left side, and three programmable keys download applications under the screen on the right. More power button, naturally. Placing the keys is perfect in terms of design, but subjectively, not so easy in real work situations. About the round joystick on the front side of the device, which all initially mistaken for a large power button, I want to say separately. A feeling that it have designed, based on screen rotation by 90 degrees. In this case, the screen is oriented horizontally, the machine conveniently fits in your left hand and the joystick is under the thumb, similar to disk Action in the ordinary (vertical) position of Cassiopeia. No other uses a joystick to come up failed. By the way, turn the screen horizontally - this is not a whim, and a convenient feature that was available back in the Newton MessagePad. It is a pity that the Pocket PC is not available.

What can I do with it?

Talk a little about the application of the new Cassiopeia. If the previous model E-105 was positioned as a PDA for entertainment, the E-115 - is a powerful tool for working with e-mail and the Internet, complete with opportunities for recreation. It is no exaggeration. The fact that Cassiopeia E-115, as in all Pocket PC, integrated set of applications, a full keyboard PDA: office software Pocket Word and Pocket Excel, Pocket version of Internet Explorer, e-mail client Pocket Outlook (Inbox). In addition, the integrated program of personal finance MS Money. In their places remained address book Contacts, Calendar and organizer list Tasks. Entertaining part of the programs presented MS Reader (for reading electronic books) and Windows Media (MP3-player). We can not say that the functionality of Pocket Word editor is staggering. But right in the document, you can insert a record in handwriting, drawing and even a sound file. Very useful zoom feature without leaving the document, you can send e-mail and via infrared. But most importantly - Pocket Word can work with documents created in MS Word desktop without any conversion. This means that adopted by e-mail MS Word 97 file can be opened on Cassiopeia, edit, save and send later in the format MS Word. Why are some Pocket Word program duplicated Notes - own a truncated analog. No extra features and benefits of Notes could not be found. Approximately the same as with Pocket Word, the situation with Pocket Excel. The list of features more modest desktop counterpart, but with files MS Excel friendly. To work with large tables seem too small screen. Here's where to turn the screen horizontally! Several rescues option changes the scale, the benefit is cascading menu and image size is selected in three movements pen. Address book and diary in the Cassiopeia E-115 exist in two copies. First - it is the standard Contacts and Calendar from Pocket Outlook. In addition to these there are, respectively, Mobile AddressBook and Mobile Calendar (resembling Lotus Organizer). Made recordings are shown in both programs, so that you can use the one that more like it. In this case, the duplication of application is justified and understandable. Inbox mailer has not undergone significant changes, but now you can open and edit attached Word documents or Excel. Attached a special utility to configure the e-mail Mail Setup Tool.Finally, a full Web-browser - Pocket Internet Explorer! Much of a difference with analog keyboard for Pocket PC has not been noticed, except that the command menu is less convenient. You can select the code page of the document. Cassiopeia E-115 can be used in the mode of audio player. The new program uses Windows Media for playback of MP3 files you can disable the screen, transferring control to an external player keys. It is extremely comfortable and great saves battery life. Do not forget to close the Windows Media when using other applications, and then change the key actions will surprise you. Some records can be typed in "disk" (Playlists), and listen to continuously. The second program is entertaining Plan - Microsoft Reader. That reader e-books created in a special format LIT. In this format is available for a number of English-language literature, Russian unavailable. However, not very difficult to translate the most favorite eBook format LIT. The quality of the text is displayed on the screen - above all praise. Eyes are not tired when reading. But I must admit, I like regular paper books.

Finally a few words about the Russian language

Unfortunately, this issue, developers Cassiopeia E-115 troubled with not much, so for sure need a special program to support the national language, in other words, crack. I used the freeware Pocket Ex Input Method, available for download at www.crechet.ru. It is designed to PalmSize PC, but works on a Pocket PC, if you put up with some trivia.

More

Information about the Cassiopeia E-115 can be found on the Internet at the following addresses:

• www.casio-usa.com/hpc/ - the official website of Casio, on handheld computers and organizers.
• www.cewindows.net - reviews and comparisons, and articles. A lot of useful information.
• www.hPC.ru - handheld computers in Russia. Device descriptions, questions and answers, library, conference, etc. All in Russian.

When writing this article was used Cassiopeia E-115, provided by MakTsentr. The authors, translation:

Portable Scanning Translator Quicktionary

One of the conditions of successful work with computer technology in our time no doubt was the knowledge of English. Business correspondence, reading technical documentation, negotiations with foreign partners, and just walking on the web - all it requires at least a primary language proficiency. But how many can boast such a perfect knowledge that they no longer have to use a dictionary? Unfortunately, most of us are unlikely to respond positively to this question. Of course, existing knowledge is enough to understand the meaning of English materials, and even conducting simple conversations, but no more. Therefore, in the world are produced and are in great demand for a variety of devices to help you orient yourself in a multilingual world. Some of these devices and today we are going. As far as I know, for the first time in Russia, the device was demonstrated at the exhibition "Trade and Warehouse '98 MacCentre Company. However, even before this successful development of the Israeli company WizCom Technologies managed to get at the exhibition CeBIT'97 prestigious "Best of CeBIT'97" magazine Byte. Scanner today are nothing new, OCR firmly entrenched on our hard drives, and electronic dictionaries and translators since Prompt-ovsky times (note - Prompt, the first Russian translation software, created in the early 90's of Petersburg by PROMPT) continue his successful march on desktop computers and more new users. And even not uncommon, when these three components are installed on one machine simultaneously. However Quicktionary - a scanner with a resolution of 300 dots per inch (dpi), Optical character recognition and dictionary 29 000 entries (or more than 260,000 words and more than 15,000 combinations), umeschennye in a compact body size with just a big souvenir pen . Naturally, first appeared on the market model allows to work with only the major European languages, but over time my turn came up to the Russian language. So how do you work this kid? Once you have conducted a "nose" of the device according to the word in the text on the integrated LCD display shows the scan result, which in a few seconds to be recognized and replaced by a dictionary entry with translations. In order for recognition was ambiguous, to smoothly carry the device on the page, aided by guide rollers, and make sure that the middle line of the letter coincides with the label. In addition, the OCR imposed some additional conditions: the font size should be 8 to 14 points, and scanned the word should be not more than 32 characters. However, I think these conditions are satisfied most of the print texts with which we have met in my life. And, and I could easily see this, Quicktionary understands not only the usual direct font in the text, but also italic, bold and underlined fonts. Likewise, when choosing the menu (it will be dealt with later) mode "negative" can detect light (white, yellow or red) letters on a dark (black or blue) background. For example, the inscription on the cover of the book with which I tested Quicktionary (James Patterson, "Kiss the girls") made with yellow lettering on a red background, I was able to recognize only in this mode.If you really were talking about the books for me to read foreign literature, even under the condition that I do not understand just one of 20-30 words (which necessarily leads to the need to use a dictionary) is already quite a heavy task. However, try to use for this purpose, Quicktionary, I found it quite convenient for this purpose. Especially since that time scanning and recognition is only a few (2 to 5, the scanning speed in this case is quite high and amounts to 40 mm / sec.) Seconds, which is much faster than looking for the same word in a puffy English-Russian dictionary. To translate the rather long sequences of words in the Quicktionary is a function of the translation of the picture when directly on the LCD by using the cursor select individual words and receive immediate translation. After this the same way can be translated and the remaining words. In addition, the device has the convenient and useful features such as a word is written in parts, which is helping out in cases when the word moved to another line. Once the test is detected and displayed in text form (up to 3 lines of 20 characters) on the screen, you can choose words from standing next to entries or edit the scanned word - the cursor keys you can change the letters, consistently going over the alphabet. In memory Quicktionary can store up to 75 words translated, that allows you to translate phrases and sentences, without using input operations. In addition to working directly with the printed text Quicktionary can be used in input mode, letter by letter. For this is included with this special card Opticard, which printed "key" to enter the letters and commands through the appropriate bar codes. With Opticard can easily enter words that can not be scanned (eg, headlines, street signs, spoken words of someone, etc.). Device management is done by the seven function keys. One of them turns on and off the device, while others, including the keys Esc, Enter and arrow keys, scroll through the integrated device menu. The menu is quite extensive and includes the following items:

• History. This option displays a list of previous scanned words (up to 75, as already mentioned);
• View neighboring words in the dictionary. This option displays a list of articles that are in the dictionary next to the selected word and you can view them;
• Enter a new word. This option allows you to enter a new word to the dictionary with keys;
• Contrast. With this option you can adjust the display contrast;
• Cutoff time. Allows you to set the time interval after which the unused device will automatically shut down.
• Righty / lefty. Allows you to enable these modes for the right and left hands. Accordingly, changes and direction of the scan (right - left to right and left - right for lefties). In addition, the card Opticard, which was mentioned above, one side is the same for left and one right-handed.
• Check the batteries. Really handy option appear migrated here from handheld computers, allowing a visual estimate of battery charge and also see the voltage to be issued to the batteries. Incidentally, the unit carried out by three AAA batteries and format, which, according to the assurances of the developers, should be enough for about 3,000 scans;
• Language menu. Allows you to select the menu language (English / Russian);
• Information. Here you can view information about the Quicktionary, including the version number of the program and its authors. Together for information that the device uses a very effective recognition system called OCR-on-a-Chip, which for WizCom Technologies has developed a firm Ligature, which in a few years ago merged with the former. According to the developers themselves, the program requires a total of constant 500-1100 kilobytes and 64 kilobytes of RAM.

The device is fully complete, standalone solution that does not have any interfaces to communicate with the outside world. Thus, excluded the possibility of its connection to external devices to download additional dictionaries. But this is probably the only or most important minus of the device. Who will be the most likely consumer of it? I think, Quicktionary can be useful assistant tool for working with both technical documentation (subject to the availability of specialized dictionaries), and when learning a foreign language or simply by reading periodicals and non-periodical publications in their original language. Sources, Materials:

Watches CASIO PC-Unite

Finally my dream has come true. I became the owner of an electronic clock CASIO PC-Unite BZX-201SCR. What is this animal? This watch features a PIM (Personal Information Management) and the ability to communicate with a PC (not only). Now, first things first.

Equipment and Features

CPU: Special 4-bit processor Memory: approximately 24 MB Display: alphanumeric display with a professional. symbols permit: the top item - 48x10 pixels, the bottom element - 12 digits

Functions of PIM:

Scheduler: Up to 340 entries (up to 16 characters in the description, year, month, day, time and urgency). Contact: 100 entries (name, two phone numbers, two fax numbers, two numbers of your cell phone or pager, e-mail, memo). To Do List: 340 entries (up to 16 characters in the description, year, month, day, time and urgency). Text Browser: up to 8100 characters. Information about the owner (owner data): name, two phone numbers, two fax numbers, two cell phone numbers or pager, e-mail, memo. Other functions: world time, alarm clock, stopwatch, backlight I / O: IrDA 115200 bps, the distance of 20 cm Water resistance: for everyday use Dimensions: 50.1x36.8x13.8mm. Battery: CR2032, the service life of 18 months Completion: Software on CD-ROM, infrared adapter for serial port, documentation of claimed capabilities and equipment are impressive, now look like with all this work

Software and usability

Watches are made in a rubber casing, very easy. The display is divided into two parts. Above shows the character information (2 lines of 8 characters) is displayed at the bottom of digital information (time, phone) - 6 digits. If the information does not fit the screen entirely, by its automatic scrolling. The scrolling speed can be changed (two positions: fast / slow). Can smoothly change the display contrast. Backlight is very bright. Navigation through the menu using the cursor keys and Enter, as in a normal PC:). Several keys too small, but it's a matter of habit. The menu system is quite convenient. All data can, of course, to introduce and use a few keys, but I will say at once that it was not for the faint of heart. It is much easier to use for this purpose the computer. Exchange occurs via an infrared port, with the help of special software (SW). So, here are the contents of CD-ROM: As can be seen, to exchange data with PC-Unite, you can use a desktop computer with Windows 9x/NT 4.0/2000, CASIO Cassiopeia E-115, E-105, E-100, E-10, E-11 (you can use any MIPS PsPC / Pocket PC), Palm. Data exchange is possible in both directions (import, export). Additionally, on CD-ROM are comprehensive manual on the clock and all software. The program PC-UNITE for Windows 9x/NT 4.0/2000 allows you to import data from Microsoft Outlook 9x/2000, Microsoft Schedule + 7.0 and Lotus Organizer R2.1J. Program Harmony 1999 works with Microsoft Outlook directly. PC-UNITE program for Windows CE and Palm is working with databases of these devices directly. I did not have on hand CASIO Cassiopeia and I tested the software for Windows CE on the Everex FreeStyle PK10. Everything works fine. Software for Palm tested on Palm Vx. Data exchange takes place without problems. Software, of course, is not without flaws, but produces a nice impression.The biggest drawback of these watches is that you can use only English letters! Imported data are in Russian, displayed diverse pseudographics; (. Interesting to see if our market model Russification of these hours, and if so, when?

Conclusions

Watches CASIO PC-Unite BZX-201SCR can become an adequate replacement PDA for those who use it solely for the storage of personal information. Outside of competition, these clocks can be used by pupils and students to write cribs (joke):). In general, this product makes a very good impression and I got exactly what I expected.

Useful links

1. History of hours with the ability to synchronize data with a PC (part 1, part 2, part 3), in Russian. 2. Watch Technology WebRing authors, translation:

What is the Visor? What is the Visor in Russia?

What is the Visor? Very simple! Visor - a stylish and comfortable Pocket PC (PDA), which will facilitate, diversity, and organize your life! Visor runs on the operating system Palm OS, that is, as it may seem, is a device similar to the Palm. However, it is not so. Everything in order. Today the company Hanspring, based creator of the popular Palm organizer in 1998, produces two models of PDAs: Visor (2MB) and Visor Deluxe (8MB). Both devices are sensitive screen, recognize handwriting and supports all applications that are compatible with Palm OS 3.1. In Brief specification Visor PDA you can find on the pages of the section "Device" site hPC.ru. What is still Visor differs from Palm? Better or worse? Externally Visor is very similar to Palm III, except that five colors: Translucent, Graphite, Green, Blue and Orange. In fact, Visor is a device with a completely unique capabilities. Do Visor Organizer has many advantages (to them include support for USB, built-in microphone, easy synchronization with Macintosh and more), but the main difference from all other Visor handheld platform Palm - is the availability of expansion slots Springboard. Expandable Visor turns into a universal device. Depending on which module is connected to the Visor, Pocket PC into a digital camera, MP3-player, an electronic library or even a GPS-receiver. Moreover, different modules can be changed without stopping the work of CPC. It is now presented, and announced some 65 Springboard-modules, and, most likely, their number will still grow. While only 16 units available extensions, the most interesting of which - Eyemodule, InnoPak/2V, Thincom, Handspring Modem, and plug-ins memory. Others are electronic books and games, or for an opportunity to significantly inferior to one of these analogues. Eyemodule - a digital camera, you can work in three modes of photography: color 320x240 (the frame is 187K), black and white 320x240 (37K) and black and white 160x120 (9K). We must not forget that Visor - a device with a monochrome screen, though the module does not flash. The resulting image can be transmitted via infrared to another device or transfer to PC. If the Visor Deluxe is 5MB of free memory, a digital camera will make about 500 black and white and 125 color photographs. Eyemodule hardly be called a serious digital camera, but for amateur shooting device is well suited. InnoPak/2V from InnoGear is the real embodiment of the idea of ​​"two in one." 2 MB of additional memory and a silent vibrating signal to fit into a standard expansion card Springboard. Simple, convenient and, most importantly, inexpensive. Handspring Modem - a standard wired modem to a 33.6 KB. Useful functions - when connected to digital telephone network gives 4 alarms (so that the user did not spoil the modem). Two AAA batteries provide 3 hour continuous operation. Disadvantages: too heavy, bulky and slow speed. The main advantage of the modem - that he is available now. Thincom from Card Access is very compact, compared to the Handspring Modem, the size of a standard memory card for the Visor. Speed ​​was not particularly high - only 33.6 Kb, and the food he takes on the Visor. To the device comes with software Browse-it, MultiMail and Online. Upgrade to 56 KB. Which modem is better - to judge only by the user. However nice that already have a choice. From memory expansion modules are available now Handspring Backup Module and Handspring 8MB Flash Module. It is believed that the first step is to buy the Backup Module, and then buy the other modules. I think it makes no sense to explain what might be useful for extra memory. Sometimes, even without additional 8MB unavoidable. Thus, the main advantage Visor - expandable. It is this feature has made a real rival Handspring Palm. Slot Visor Springboard allowed to position differently than the device Palm. For Palm owners need a PC or even laptop to store data from your Pocket PC. Visor users can make backups to a special unit - which means that they are not tied to your PC. Visor is positioned as a standalone unit. The possibility of expanding the CCP allowed to allocate a separate niche for the Visor. Provision, which takes Handspring, due not only features produced by the CPC, but also because what the situation is today in the PDA market. Not so long ago, the company refused to Palm production of several models of handheld devices Series III. Now manufactured only Palm IIIc, Palm Vx, and a brand new m100. Thus, a device similar to the Palm Visor PDA remained. And although it is believed that a cheap substitute for m100 Palm IIIe, it seems to me that not every self-respecting man would buy "a bar of soap" as a monochrome organizer. It turns out that Palm gave little space for the Visor. There is no reason to doubt that Handspring does not miss his chance. Already, sales of devices over the Internet Visor outperforming PDA Palm. The only thing that really hinders Handspring - it is a problem of licensing the OS from a competing company. But if things with the Palm OS will go normally, Handspring will conquer all potential users of the Palm series III (it should be noted, they are many). The world market for the Visor handheld promises much. What are the prospects for the device in Russia? Judging by the success of the Palm handhelds in Russia (in reality - about 60% of sales), the device Visor will enjoy great popularity. Especially when you consider that the Palm III series will be more available. Replace their Palm can only monochrome m100, but the PDA will appear in Russia only in the fall. As it became known, m100 shipment to Russia will begin October 10, 2000. For the market of handheld devices is a very long time. October 10 Visor, with proper support from Handspring, can win up to 30% of sales on the Russian market. A good prospect. The first modules of Springboard, which will appear in Russia, will become Handspring Backup Module and Handspring 8MB Flash Module. In September and October this year will begin selling this summer announced MP3-players, GPS-receivers, radio modules, and other equally interesting devices. What remains is confirmed by their appearance in Russia. From now on weekly news about new Springboard-modules will have a direct bearing on us. Let me remind you that starting from August 14, Visor will be available in electronic PALMagazine company MakTsentr. Visor for the first time officially appear in Russia. The very colorful Visor, which is not fit in the concept of "electronic organizer", which poses a serious threat to the popularity of Palm, which "expands" to almost any portable device that ... that ... that ... authors, translation:

Palm m100 - a new Palm for new markets

Until now, all Palm devices have been mainly aimed at businessmen. Palm V was the next step in expanding the market, thanks to its design. The only model that can be considered more or less "fun", this Palm IIIe SE, packed in a transparent body with colored caps, which can be changed according to your mood. Today, the company Palm launches the light model, which, as its creators hope, will open new markets for its simple but powerful Organizer. In fact, Palm m100 has the same Palm IIIe with a few additions in, with an entirely new body and the ability to change its look with different color frames. No kreydla, but there is only a cable with a button for HotSync. The cost of the device in the U.S. $ 149. The body of Palm sleek, stylish looks like a makeup case. Cover repeats these contours and is easy to open. When the lid is closed at the top of the window can be seen in the shape of D, a small hole at the bottom. If you press the button, visible through the hole, the upper window appear time and date. This function makes a good substitute for new Palm handheld clock. Palm m100 dimensions are almost the same as that of the Palm V, though the new device is thicker than double. The device is powered by two AAA batteries that are hidden behind the door at the rear. The door to get more than the rest Palm devices and it is more difficult to open. As conceived by producers, such doors shall not give a battery "jump" from the compartment at the fall of the organizer. One of the main innovations of this device - the ability to change its "face". In the U.S. there are many companies that produce all kinds of frames for Palm m100, such as those put on cell phones Nokia 6100 Series. This is a pleasant change the appearance of your computer without replacing your whole body. Additional frames are sold for $ 19.95. There are a number of new features besides the possibility to change the color of the frame. The power button is now located in the middle on top of the screen. This is not the most convenient place, but in this case is less likelihood that the computer turns on by itself. Scroll buttons at the bottom, separated, as in the model IIIc. It is pressing the top scroll button activates the clock for two seconds off. During operation, pressing this button activates the backlight. Right farthest button quick launch does not start Memo Pad, as in previous versions, and new program Note Pad. In contrast to the Memo Pad, also mounted on the organizer, Note Pad allows you to write directly on the screen. As a result, you can quickly record something, not using Graffiti. In the area of ​​the screen for Graffiti also saw two small changes. In the upper left corner now have an image of hours. Clicking on it, you can call the same hours for two seconds, without leaving for this from the program itself.In the right corner of the icon is changing the contrast. The new Palm m100 is no longer the wheel or a button to change the contrast. All you need to do this several times to click on this icon to select the optimal image contrast. Display of the new device is much smaller than the rest Palm'ov. The screen size of Palm Pilot and Palm III - 2 3 / 8 inches, the Palm V - 2 1 / 4 inches, while the m100 - only about 2 inches (just over 5 cm). This makes the m100 more like a digital watch than to the device family Palm. The disadvantage of the small screen can be assumed that the pixels appear closer to each other, which makes the image darker. Palm m100 controlled Palm OS 3.5.1. The main difference from earlier versions - the presence of Note Pad and new hours, and the new help, help you quickly learn to work with the m100. Speaker in the new Palm m100 is very loud. Even the sound by simply pressing buttons seems too loud. It is believed that Roman numerals are not well suited for numbering products. Arabic numerals is simpler to use and distinguish. Although the company had used the Palm and the Roman numerals in the names of their products, now she has decided to call all their new products using the name of the Arab numerals, starting with the m100. This name is reminiscent of Newton MP100. We know that the letters represent MP Message Pad, but nobody knows what is still the letter "m" stands for the device Palm (may be, mobile?). In general, m100 is a solid PDA. Its "hard" design, he recalls Palm IIIc. It remains to wait for any frame will be for him to produce a variety of companies, especially nice would look under the scope of metal and wood. You can even to do something psychedelic with spray paint - you will have a unique frame for your m100. In my opinion, not a bad idea ... Sources, Materials:

Hitachi HPW-600ET: Corporate Terminal

As you know, trying to find additional sources of financial income of the company constantly offer users to try something new. We also know that new - it's forgotten past. Both maxims are equally applicable to market Tablet PCs. Once they played the role of regular sverhperspektivnoy new items, which will change the PC industry like this, as it is today "smart TVs, washing machines with Internet access, etc. After a brief recovery period, manufacturers of tablet systems shifted to other markets, but the overall idea - without a PC keyboard - not dead. We investigated a car Hitachi HPW-600ET (ePlate) - PC with pen input, which is running Microsoft Windows CE Handheld PC Pro Edition. Hitachi HPW-600 is equipped with large compared with competing devices based on Windows CE screen (7.5 inch), and therefore it is more convenient to many of keyboard systems. The developers used a very convenient size of a PC - it looks like a 200-page book format of "two-thirds of A4" (220x160 mm, weight 840). It is the lack of keyboard enabled Hitachi engineers apply a sufficiently large screen, but its resolution is only 640x480. Lack of Display Hitachi HPW-600ET is that the image is in direct sunlight is almost indistinguishable. In addition, at these sizes would be to use the screen with a resolution of 800x600, that individual users will certainly be welcomed, but this would lead to an increase in unit price (which might not appeal to corporate users, who often buy multiple devices for a special corporate terminal, in our opinion, would fit perfectly in black and white screen). The device is equipped with a CPU Hitachi Super SH-4/128 MHz - is a powerful but rarely seen in the ultra-PC processor. As shown by our investigations, there are many programs for the previous model, SH3, and for competing CPUs (MIPS, and even StrongARM), but few of them have versions for systems such as HPC Professional CPU-SH4. Despite the powerful CPU, Hitachi HPW-600ET, like many other systems with Windows CE, is somewhat slow. In this case, run the program is fast enough - manifest dignity CPU - but working with her, especially when simultaneously running several other programs, sometimes practically impossible due to the inefficient mechanism of control priorities in this OS. Capacity of the RAM (16 MB) may seem small, but it helps reduce the price of the device, and application programs and data necessary corporate users, this amount of memory should suffice. Nominally, the computer is on battery about 12 hours, full time, but in our tests, he "lived" on a single charge of about 8 hours (we used relatively intensively PC). In addition, we noted a few misguided implementation of power management: To disable the device by pressing the touch icon in the upper right corner of the screen, and activate - just "click" on any area of ​​the screen. At first glance, it is convenient, but in practice it means that when you carry the device in hand, it is almost always included (and no time to "sleep"). Perhaps the main advantage of PC HPW-600ET is that he has almost a full set of communication tools: built-in modem, serial and USB-ports, PCMCIA slot, and CompactFlash. However, device makers have made a miscalculation - the serial port has a special miniature, rather than the usual 9-pin connector. This seemingly small change means that the HPW-600ET not destined to become a network administrator's dream. Systems with Windows CE is often used in large companies as terminals from which employees of the department of technical support configure routers, servers and other equipment, usually located in the server room, where there is usually no free space.The device is very convenient for this purpose screen, but the lack of a standard port, means you must always carry a special adapter or cable. Problems when trying to install the crack (Paragon RusCE) on this system have arisen. After a five-minute procedure at our disposal was completely Russified system. In ROM devices provide standard software Pocket Office (Pocket Access, Pocket Outlook, Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, Pocket PowerPoint, Pocket Internet Explorer), the system Jot handwriting and some utilities (including a program for creating copies of files on the card CompactFlash). Office applications are the standard versions of office software, Microsoft, included with every PC of this type. However, the system Jot, from the standpoint of our customers, has a huge drawback - it is totally incompatible with the Russian language. User can not type characters of the native language (although, Windows CE provides for proper display of Cyrillic). For the English language provides a very good recognition accuracy and speed. In addition, the package provides a "virtual keyboard", but with the Cyrillic alphabet, it is also not compatible. She has many other disadvantages, for example, it is amazingly long run (by clicking in the system tray keyboard appears only after 5 - 7). "Deal with the virtual keyboard can be quite simple: there is a utility ArtSKeyboard (for dozens of languages), which is compatible with the Cyrillic alphabet and can change their size. As for recognition, the best option - devices equipped with a system of Paragon PenReader, which, according to our impressions (we studied the beta version, designed for processors SH4), can compete on equal terms with Jot, but is compatible with the Cyrillic alphabet. In our view, individual users will celebrate Hitachi HPW-600ET number of shortcomings, but it may take an interest in the company-builders because it can be used as a component of an information system (such as in warehouses or supermarkets). Specifications are authors, translation:

Psion Revo Plus by

Remark: Screenshots listed in review were increased amounting and therefore may be fuzzy. The actual picture quality Revo is not satisfactory. It crisp, pure and very bright and perhaps enlarged or reduced using icons scalability that situated in bottom left.

At first glance,

Description	New PDA from Psion with enlarged memory and supplemented ON
Dignity	16-Mbyte RAM, Opera for EPOC and WAP-browser enclosed in addition to embedded applications
Shortcomings	No backlight no slot expansion
Manufacturer	Psion (http://www.psion.com/)
Price	$ 399 at retail

Assumptions about how will be the next device from Psion, has been set. Most of you know that the Psion is one of the members of the consortium Symbian, working to create a new generation of devices, including over a hybrid PDA and mobile phone. It turned out that the released product - it's just ulushenny option already exists. We have already talked about some of the details associated with the Revo Plus. According to these details, the new Revo would have increased to 16 MB of memory, built-in WAP-Browser, Opera Web browser, and building green. Now when Psion officially presented Revo Plus, we can tell that new Psion represents from itself actually. The first thing you notice looking at the Revo Plus, - this is the case. Instead of the usual dark blue (which always seemed to me the black), new housing is gray in color. In addition, in the place where the old model proudly logo Revo, now written REVO PLUS. The following external difference - it is an inscription about 16MB screen left of the icon "System". And the rest looks Revo Plus and Revo looks exactly the same. With regard to internal changes, Revo Plus has a built-in 16 MB of memory, instead of 8-Mbyte first Revo. Furthermore, motherboard Revo Plus was adapted for installing additional memory modules. On the other hand, still remained an ARM processor 710, clocked at 36 MHz, and built-in rechargeable batteries. In Revo, users are most discontent caused failure of memory expansion. Despite the fact that this problem persists, a 16-MB to 8 MB of - a big plus in favor of the Revo Plus. More memory - means more programs with whom can work and consequently, Psion Invites additional software on attached CD. First of all, it's Opera for EPOC. If you watch the news, you should know that not so long ago signed an agreement under which Psion will license Opera for EPOC, to use on their devices. Prior to that, Opera has been available for download on the Series 7 and netBook, but there was no word on other devices, Psion. Now Opera is distributed with the Revo Plus. The latest version of Opera - Opera for Epoc v3.62 Release 1.01 provides reliable operation with a browser on the Revo, and now on the Revo Plus. In other words, you can conduct banking transactions and to make commercial orders are literally in the palm of his own hand.For those wishing to CD remains the Web, a standard browser on the Psion, though Opera is much faster and better. Another program that comes on CD, called WAP. You may remember that the beta version of the WAP site located at wap.psion.com and, despite the fact that there was a full-featured, be required to indicate their own gateway. Apparently, people from Psion to think carefully - and new software to Revo Plus includes a WAP gateway with the spelled out, given Psion. Psion also launched a new WAP-site "PsionWAP" on wap.psion.com. At PsionWAP provides links to a number of services that can be accessed with a WAP-browser including, for example, electronic mail, weather reports, news and more. A little later Psion is planning to publish a list of other WAP-sites, which can be viewed through a browser. It may seem that the Revo Plus - it is not particularly bright new, but do not forget that the release of a new product means lower prices for the old. This means that if the Revo Plus is priced at $ 399, then the price of the Revo will fall to $ 329 in Psionusa.com or even up to $ 299 CompUSA (prices in the U.S. - Ed.). We must also take into account that in addition to the powerful new program, Revo Plus still has the standard built-in applications. These include the Agenda, Contacts, E-mail, Word, Sheet (compatible with Excel spreadsheets), Jotter, Calculator, World Time and more. Now, when I briefly described to you the dignity of a new device, it's time to talk about the shortcomings. First and foremost, the main disadvantage of Revo - is the lack of illumination. Unfortunately, Revo Plus suffers the same. If you are looking for explanations of this fact, I heard that the screens Revo technically not allowed to use lights. You can accept or not accept this explanation, noting that even a small LED can work wonders. I also want to note that Psion did not care about updating PsiWin 2.3. Anyway, Psion, apparently believes that the program is in order. And then, I would like to see built in support for ACT! or other useful applications. In my opinion, every time a new product comes out, productivity should spend some time learning the software from a third party and the selection of the best for the dissemination of this unit. All new PDAs from other manufacturers are equipped with the AvantGo. I heard something that AvantGo for EPOC is in development, but at the same time, there are already some interesting proposals that could fill the vacant niche. I was in doubt as to whether good or bad thing is that Opera will not be included in the embedded applications. Frankly, at first I was disappointed to learn that the program requires a separate installation, but after realized that this is very good. The main reason - I want to know that I have the opportunity to upgrade this program, instead put "patches". Also, I read on the site Opera, Opera for EPOC which will be supplemented and updated the next version, Opera 4.0, will be free for owners of 3.62. Before moving to the pluses Revo Plus, I would like to note the strange similarity between the Revo Plus and the new Palm VIIx. First, they both have a small addition to the name of its predecessor. Secondly, to improve and in fact, and in another device - it's more memory and updating a list of standard applications. Revo Plus could be Revox ... But it would be too! I wonder who who stole this idea? :) So back to the pluses. The first advantage - it is memory. Despite what you might want to take more than 16-MB, double the memory - it is a huge step forward. For example, in his Revo I work with Opera and a set of other applications. When I run Opera, I have to make sure that all other programs are closed, or not enough memory. With the Revo Plus and its 16 MB of memory, this problem disappears.I was not able to install on your PDA JVM (Java Virtual Machine) for Opera. Now I can count on support Java. Also, I like to play in Goby (Game Boy emulator for EPOC - Ed.), And as a result, I have carefully selected games that can be stored on the PDA. With the Revo Plus, this problem goes back in time. With regard to any additional software, it's great to have a quality browser on the Revo! Nice to see third-party product, Opera, among the standard set of applications. As for WAP, I waited a long time that the program will be free or will be presented with a new product Psion. My assumptions were confirmed: Psion introduced a new product and will soon open a site for downloading WAP. It seems that the Psion is going to seriously push WAP. Indeed, much nicer to have WAP on Revo Plus, what dab in awkward keys cell phone. Again, if you've gone through all the difficulties of connecting to the service provider, you can not work with WAP, and with a full Web-browser. Let me return to my question - why not AvantGo for EPOC? Already there are a lot similar to the AvantGo software. Why can not their turn came with the device CD-ROM? Except for an additional 8 MB of memory, Revo Plus, you can create yourself: Opera for EPOC is already available, and the WAP-browser will appear soon. But, of course, as mentioned earlier, more memory - more options when dealing with browsers. One more thing: if wondering about what, when Psion will acquire podderzhakoy USB, then I heard that a set of USB for Revo Plus for Mac and PC are currently under development and will be available soon.

Conclusion

For quality I give Revo Plus 4.5 out of 5 stars (Geekheads, notional unit in the evaluation of devices - Ed.). Not so long ago, I surveyed the previous model Revo and gave it 3.5 stars for quality because of lighting and some other stuff, but now, when the Revo Plus increased memory and a standard suite of applications includes Opera and WAP browsers, I realized that I could only take full points for the lack of illumination. I use Revo to October 1999, and I already had to face great inconvenience due to lack of lighting, I really do not have enough light. As for colors, I'd like something more vivid, but I've heard that a consultant by the color of Psion believes that America does not like the bright colors. Seems to me it's time to change the Psion consultant, especially when you consider the appearance of Palm m100 with a stylish design and colorful interchangeable panels. For convenience Revo Plus deserves all 5 stars. I have used various PDAs, but the Revo is still first in terms of convenience. Ability to conduct daily, store contacts, edit and view documents directly on the journey, connect wirelessly to the Internet, manage e-mail, and now WAP ... A little more memory and the ability to expand - and Revo Plus will do the most convenient PDA, it is true then the device is much more expensive and its form factor will increase. Now the retail price for the Revo Plus is $ 399, while the old Revo in many places has cost $ 299. It would be nice Revo Plus sold for $ 299, but if you count the cost licensing Opera and WAP browsers, it becomes clear that the price of $ 399 is justified. With its expanded memory, and standard Opera and WAP browsers, Revo Plus Zana its deserved place in the list of the best devices Geek.com Pick. Sources, Materials: