Monochrome handheld with mp3-player. Made in China

Have you heard anything about "palmovye" PDAs from Acer? If only our news. It turns out, Acer s10, the representative of this illustrious family, have long been sold in China. For other countries, the CCP that can be found there only strongly tightening. And yet s10 - quite an interesting product, unlike the counterparts. This is an example of successful breeding. Components of the "palmovyh" handhelds from different manufacturers with the addition of multimedia features. How did the cross now, and we estimate ...

First impression

Item the first - design. From this perspective, Acer is a cross between a computer from Sony and car manufacturing Palm, manifestly tending to the latter. Sony's body was taken by an aluminum color, and terribly inconvenient joystick instead of the usual set the scroll buttons. However, the device from Acer is somewhat longer than usual, which clearly does not play into the hands of ergonomics. Size of the device are 120 x 77 x 13 mm, weight - 140g, which is slightly larger than normal. Judge for yourself:

Model	Acer s10	Palm m500
Weight (g)	140	113
Dimensions (mm)	120 x 77 x 13	114 x 79 x 11

Unlike Palm'ovyh handhelds, the stylus Acer s10 Schiltz has to press a favorite reset. But the screen is positive borrowing not carry - the usual black and white display with a resolution of 160x160. At first glance, it is disappointing, but then it becomes clear that a color screen this unit is not needed. Reading to the end of the article, you think, will agree with me.

Hardware capabilities

In general, it is nothing remarkable: 16 MB of RAM, a processor Motorola Dragonball VZ 33 MHz. Volume ROM is 8MB. Here are just in the era of color even in low typewriters monochrome display looks like something archaic. However, the side from which to look at this flaw. Chinese PDA equipped with a mp3-player, but for music availability of color screen (especially not interrupted) severely restricts the time of her audition. By the same assurances of developers, Acer s10 Ways delight hearing user almost nine hours. So, in this model is used to empower a memory card slot standard Memory Stick. Something I do not recall a single handheld, produced not in the bins by Sony, which would support this type of cards. This glaring omission developers, as well as Memory Stick sufficiently far behind in popularity is now widely used SD / MMC and Compact Flash. But do not let the bad news, because the Sony still has a few features that have benefited the new PDA. The first of them - it certainly support mp3, which do not possess any PDA Palm, or PDAs from Handspring. By the way, the sound of this unit, very decent quality. Of course, it's far from a normal desktop stereo capabilities, but with the dynamics of the average laptop is quite comparable. In addition, complete with palm headphones are also excellent quality and with a good margin volume. The only pity is that the fans really quality music will not be able to connect to other device other than the supplied "gags", as the connector for connecting a few less than usual. Though hardly audiophiles will generally listen to mp3.

Made in China "width =" 203 "height =" 421 "/>

Another interesting option available in the arsenal of Acer s10, is the ability to work as a handheld digital recorder. In my memory devices on the Palm OS, equipped with this really useful feature, it was not. With regard to the functioning of this option Acer s10, then by pressing the record at any time, opened the application to record sound, but as a result of a long (few seconds), pressing the recording starts automatically. The only pity is that sometimes the writing can begin by chance because of the crude location of the keys to turn it on, but because of its accidental pressing. The recording process is accompanied by a red LED display. The recording quality at the right level and it is amiss to notes from a lecture or important meetings, even in a noisy environment. The recorder has a fairly rich settings, and the records themselves can be stored in memory as a standard PDA. Pdb, and on the memory card in no less than usual. Mp3. And, in the case of storage. Pdb at the earliest timing converter on the desktop will automatically convert the accumulated data in a clear desktop. Mp3. In general, all practical and without any frills.

Software stuffing

Nothing special in this program part of the handheld can not boast. Except for the specific software for specific options the same - sound recording and playback - nothing remarkable, and different from other similar models do not. Thus, the operating system for Acer s10 is a Palm OS 4.1 Chinese version (the world's first PDA with fully translated into Chinese interface (!), While that to us before), and includes the supply of watches, a program for backing up data to a memory card Anglo-Chinese dictionary, and finally, E-book Reader - a program to convert any text file into. pdb. With regard to AudioBox - Program for playing mp3, - then in her case also has some interesting moments. For example, it provides rich opportunities for the formation of the order of playback of files: "random", "repeat", "play around", etc. In addition AudioBox can not only turn off the screen, leaving the sound on, but on and off the display automatically after a specified period of time. As can be seen, this program can turn Palm into a qualitatively working mp3-player. Also on CD that came with the handheld, you can find the Palm Desktop, Pumatech Intellisync Lite, eBook Converter, Voice Converter and instructions in PDF. It is not hard to guess all of these programs are designed for use on the desktop.

Little nothings of life

It should be noted wonderfully elaborate system of charging the internal battery. Acer s10 can be fed while in the cradle connected to the network. Another way of charging - the same cradle, but connected to the USB. And finally, a way that is lacking for most manufactured today, the CCP: The adapter can be connected directly to the device, which is absolutely indispensable on a trip or at the office not to carry a cradle. And if we add to this a very solid stock of battery life, it becomes clear that engineers Acer really worked for her. It is also worth noting the details of a successful lighting, which makes the work with the CPC in low-light conditions more than comfortable.

Total

The result is a wonderful machine to work, where the color screen is not absolutely needed, but the voice recorder handy. Besides mp3-player will be a nice addition. The only pity is that some time ago has withdrawn a device has not yet appeared in Europe, so do we. As for the cost, it is about $ 300, which is justified available functions. When its value in our Acer s10 of the competitors will have a not entirely successful because of its truncatedness Casio Cassiopea BE-300 and the Palm m130 with a color, but passive and small screen. Well, let's hope that this handheld still appear on our market and will find its buyers. PSIncidentally, in the picture, if you've noticed, is depicted version of the hieroglyphs, both on the screen and in graffiti. Also on some photos, you can contemplate a different version, devoid of the Chinese alphabet. It turns out that the European version is already there ... This is just to find him in Moscow, I could not. The authors, translation:

Mobile panorama of the week. Issue 14 - July 18

Wi-Fi with the GPS in the palm

At the beginning of last week has finally come true event, which the company Palm for over a year, a formal presentation of the communicator Palm Treo 800w. The first rumors about him have appeared in the early summer of last year, of course, then it was known almost nothing about him, only a general description. Novelty is a momentous for the company Palm, a PDA has finally had to appear integrated support for wireless networking Wi-Fi, is still lacking in the product Palm, able to work in cellular networks. In addition, it was expected, and some other innovations. For example, the built-in GPS module and the screen resolution of 320x320 piskley. We can not say that Palm has disappointed its fans, by contrast, expectations completely fulfilled, but ... it happened much later than many expected. Treo 800w refers to the line of smartphones Palm, running the operating system Windows Mobile. The first representative of this family - Treo 700w. Announcement of this device was held in September 2005 and the release for sale - in early 2006. Firstborn cooperation Palm and Microsoft was designed to work in networks of CDMA, supports high-speed data transfer standard EV-DO, and had well-recognizable design, a familiar model to hit the Treo 650. By autumn there was a little bit improved version, Palm Treo 700wx, and the end of 2006 was released on a new model based on the Treo Windows Mobile, this time focused on the common European standard for third generation networks - UMTS / HSDPA. Treo 750 has become not only the first of a Treo with networking support UMTS, but also got a new design - he finally got rid of acting outside the housing antenna, which gave the Treo 700w a few old-fashioned look. Needless to say, that "the first 3G Treo with Windows Mobile for Europe is expected with great impatience. Nevertheless, such innovations as the expected Wi-Fi support or, for example, the standard for Treo with Palm OS screen resolution it has not appeared, than the novelty of many disappointed. Recall that the PDA Treo, running Palm OS, screen resolution is 320x320 pixels, but features Windows Mobile system was forced to confine Palm Treo 700 and Treo 750 resolution of 240x240 pixels. Between the Treo 750 and Treo 800w was released by another device operating on the basis of Windows Mobile, but the Treo 500 does not have a touch screen and is based on a variety of Windows Mobile 6 Standard, more simply refers to a class of smart phones, not smartphones. The present heir to the Treo 700w was the new Treo 800w. Also like its predecessor, it works in network standard CDMA, it is logical to expect a similar issue for the Treo networks UMTS / HSDPA. Treo 800w made in the same form factor without an external antenna that and Treo 750.Compared with its predecessor, we can distinguish these differences Treo 800w:

• Support for standard EV-DO Rev.A, more rapid compared with EV-DO Rev.0, which is supported in the Treo 700w
• Support for wireless networking Wi-Fi 802.11b / g (y Treo 700w was absent)
• Built-in GPS (for Treo 700w was absent)
• MicroUSB connector instead of the proprietary Palm Multi-connector
• Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional instead of Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC Phone Edition
• Display with a resolution of 320x320 instead of 240x240 pixels
• Processor TI OMAP2430 333 MHz instead of the Intel XScale 312 MHz
• 128 MB RAM and 256 MB of ROM instead of 64 MB RAM and 128 MB ROM
• Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR Bluetooth 1.2 instead of
• 2.0 megapixel camera instead of the 1.3 megapixel camera
• Time running conversation - up to 4.5 hours versus 4.7 hours
• Opening hours in standby mode - up to 200 hours instead of 300 hours
• Memory card, microSD / microSDHC (up to 8 GB) instead of SD / SDIO / MMC
• Dimensions - 112h57, 9x18, 5 mm instead 113h58h23 mm
• Weight - 141.75 grams instead of 180 grams

As you can easily see the characteristics, Palm has done a great job on the new Treo. In a first for a Treo 800w smartphone Palm used several solutions, including built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, 320x320 resolution in Windows Mobile models, the standard microUSB connector instead of proprietary connectors, support for standard high-speed EvDO Rev A, Bluetooth in version 2.0 + EDR and some other solutions. If the previous model, Windows Mobile smartphones Palm looked a little outdated due to lack of the same Wi-Fi or GPS, then let the Treo 800w is not a revolutionary device, but is consistent with modern concepts of the functional device. Interestingly, when a version of Windows Mobile 6 from the manufacturers the opportunity to easily implement the resolution 320x320 it was clear that Microsoft is a nod in the direction of Palm. However, the first producer, publisher of the Windows Mobile device with such a resolution was not the Palm, and Samsung. By the way this model - Samsung SGH-i780 - could lay claim to being the closest competitor for the Treo 800w, if they worked in a standard cellular networks. This device has already sold quite successfully in the global market and, apparently, when Palm is ripe for the production of GSM / UMTS-version of the Treo 800w, he would have been the heir Samsung SGH-i780. The main thing that Palm has delayed again waiting for a year, or Treo 850w will look average against the competition, as well as Treo 750. Meanwhile, the new Treo 800w has already caused quite a lot of positive feedback. Many journalists converge on the idea that this is the best Treo, ever released Palm. Among the advantages noted the performance, functionality and interface improvements Windows Mobile, simplifying work. Interestingly, the latest addition to the base of Palm OS - Palm Centro was a real hit. Perhaps, Treo 800w will be equally successful and will help Palm out of the protracted crisis.

Samsung plans to murder Nokia N96

Sign of the super-camera phone last year was the camera with a resolution of 5 MP. Once all the companies included in the "Big Five" have already submitted at least one mobile phone with a 5-megapixel camera, you must move on. Led the race megapixels company Sony Ericsson, which recently announced its new flagship photo-Sony Ericsson C905, equipped with a 8.1 megapixel camera resolution. Now other mobile industry leaders will be forced to be equal to this standard. Company Samsung, known for his passion for world records, this time to lead the race is not torn, but is not going to concede or fall behind. Recall that in his time Samsung intensively experimented with telephone-oriented photo-shoot, but was faced with several challenges, not allowed her to bring camera phones into the international market. Back in March 2006 at CeBIT 2006 the company introduced a model called SCH-B600, which was positioned as the world's first 10-megapixel camera phone, but outside the Korean market novelty and not selected, the mobile users were not willing to pay about a thousand dollars for the great phone, albeit with a 10-megapixel camera on board. Since then, the mobile industry is strongly stepped forward with one hand, manufacturers are now often limited in their photo-backgrounds alone photo-functionality, offering, and other advanced features, but on the other - to make the camera phone with a decent level is easier and cheaper. The very notion of "advanced camera phone 'has changed a lot, now the phone with a 5-megapixel camera will surprise nobody. At this point in the line of Samsung can select Samsung G810, is a multifunctional smartphone, released apparently in defiance of the smartphone Nokia N95. As well as the Finnish hit last year, Samsung G810 is equipped with 5-megapixel camera, GPS-receiver, supports the work in networks GSM / EDGE and UMTS / HSDPA, as well as wireless Wi-Fi. Unlike the Nokia N95, including photo-features of Samsung G810 is present xenon flash and lens with 3 x optical zoom. However, releasing the Samsung G810, the Korean company has already faced with the following Smartphone Nokia - N96, which in addition to all the advantages of the Nokia N95 has 16 GB of internal memory on board, in conjunction with a slot for flash cards and support for mobile TV DVB-H. Now the network has information that Samsung is preparing for the next breakthrough, and develops 8-megapixel smartphone, which immediately "put into place" Nokia N96. According to the author's blog SamsungMobileBlog.Net, the novelty will come under the designation Samsung i8510 and a nice marketing name Primera. He will be promoted as the world's first 8-megapixel smartphone. Just like the Nokia N96, it will be running the operating system Symbian OS 9.3 platform S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 2 (G810 is based on S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 1). Unlike Samsung G810, in the future novelty display size becomes comparable with the Finnish competitor, it will be 2.8 inches diagonally, but the resolution remains the same - QVGA. Strangely enough, the source reported a dual LED flash instead of xenon, which was in G810. In addition, the description does not mention i8510 optical zoom. It is noted the ability to shoot video in QVGA resolution at 120 frames per second.Among other differences i8510 compared to its predecessor, is now known about the resulting large amount of internal memory - 16 GB, like the Nokia N96 with the possibility of further expansion of flash cards microSD. Amount of RAM in this case is 128 MB. Image processing provides 3D-accelerator. Also mentioned about the GPS-module, FM-radio, TV-out, a standard 3.5-millimeter headphone jack and a full set of communication possibilities of the Wi-Fi to HDSPA (7,2 Mbit / s). Lithium-Ion Battery 1200 mAh provides up to 280 hours of standby time or 6 hours of talk time. All this in a fairly compact body dimensions of 106.5 x53, 9h16, 9 mm. We recall that the Samsung G810 dimensions are 103x52, 9x17, 9 mm. Form factor at i8510 uses the same - the slider, while among the controls appeared "optical joystick", which is already familiar to users of Samsung products to the communicator i780. It is located under the display in place a standard navigation keys and can additionally serve as the trackpad to move the cursor around the screen. This smartphone has to appear before the end of 2008. It remains to wait for the official announcement for further details and how human was SamsungMobileBlog.Net.

Business Communicators in Finnish Giant

The network has information about the new flagship business smartphone range Nokia. Now it can claim the title of Nokia E90 Communicator, performed in the typical form factor of the horizontal clamshell, which previously released line of Nokia Communicator 9HHH based on Series 80. Nokia E90 is already based on S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 1 and entered into a series of business smartphones E-Series. Among the features of Nokia E90 can be noted internal display with a resolution of 800x352 pixels and a QWERTY-keyboard, external display with QVGA resolution and the numeric keypad, 3-megapixel camera, GPS-receiver and a full range of communication possibilities. At the time it was the most versatile and advanced features of a smartphone in the E-Series. With the recent announcement of smartphones Nokia E66 and Nokia E71 gap between the leader and other representatives of the E-Series is definitely reduced, and now Nokia E90 stand out from the masses chiefly form factor with a large display with high resolution, while support for GPS and a 3-megapixel camera can be search and other business smartphones Nokia. In order to increase the gap between the leader and the rest of the business line, Nokia is preparing to release his successor. If we believe the preliminary information that the Czech was able to find a resource iDNES Chinese It168.com, the future heir to the Nokia E90 will be called Nokia E90i. He will inherit the form factor and the main list of specifications, Nokia E90. Among the changes will have common dimensions smartphone - the novelty will become smaller and thinner than the Nokia E90. Change the quality of built-in main camera - the resolution matrix will be a 5 megapixel. In addition, there will be 8 GB of internal flash memory, is harmoniously complemented by a slot for flash cards. As we see in the business series of Nokia is increasingly penetrating capabilities and features previously available only in a range of multimedia N-Series. Announcement of this multimedia business Smartphone to be held in autumn this year, and start of sales is scheduled for the Advent season.

Apple mobile sale worldwide

Last week has become possible to summarize the first few days of sales of the new phone Apple - iPhone 3G.The first steps of the new iPhone turned out to be stormy, and is not devoid of problems. Stir caused among fans of Apple, though not accompanied by fighting, and proceeded on the civilized level, could not pass without a trace. On the one hand Apple is already on the third day since the start of sales on July 11 announced the first sold millions of iPhone 3G, and on the other - an abundance of wanting to immediately activate a new toy in combination with a great number of people wishing to update the firmware on the "old" iPhone to new iPhone 2.0 and wishing to download applications from the new App Store, simply perenagruzili company's servers, and many can only wait and complain about the problem. However, we must give credit to Apple - the problem with the activation of the iPhone 3G have been resolved fairly quickly. The world is now much more concerned about another problem - the first shipments of iPhone 3G is simply coming to an end, and when will these distributors have not yet reported. So, on Tuesday morning iPhone 3G was sold out in 21 U.S. state, 117 out of 188 Apple Store in U.S. stocks have been sold out completely and only in 27 retail stores experienced a full range - iPhone 3G white and black 16 GB model and the 8 GB model. In Europe the situation was no less intense, has served as a good example of Switzerland - in the main sales center operator Swisscom to 8 am Friday 11 July has already been sold iPhone 3G 16 GB, and all the supplies ran out to two hours of the day. Other shops in Bern canton, Swisscom is also depleted stock iPhone 3G the first day of sales. Similar difficulties were observed in other European countries and Japan. After the ceremony the report of the first Apple iPhone 3G million and 10 million downloads from App Store over the first three days, analysts have decided to find out "who all these people." In order to sell 1 million first version of the iPhone, Apple took 74 days, the difference in the rates differ substantially. Of course, we must not forget that the iPhone number one has started in one country in the world and one operator - in the U.S. from AT & T, while the July 11 iPhone 3G began to be sold in 21 countries and had already formed behind the image of iPhone. According to estimates from analyst Gene Munster of investment bank Piper Jaffray, for the first 3 days of sales in the U.S. were sold about 400,000 iPhone 3G, 250,000 accounted for the UK and an average of 18,000 - the remaining 19 countries. July 17 is among the countries where you can totally legally buy iPhone 3G, joined by France. Here, too, was not without bursts, although not many days as in many other countries around the world. For half an hour before the opening of a boutique operator Orange on the Champs Elysees at his door waiting for about 300 people. As for App Store, then to Sunday the number of applications for the iPhone and iPod touch already has 800 pieces. There are programs very different focus, more than 90% cost less than U.S. $ 10. According to statistics, the biggest demand is for free applications, which is not surprising, as the most popular topics are games that does not cause surprise. It is interesting that one of the main topics under discussion analysts will the iPhone much oust BlackBerry smartphones or not. Indeed with the release of new firmware version installed on the iPhone 3G and you can install on first-generation iPhone, as well as the ability to install third party applications from the App Store, the ability of the iPhone in the business segment increased substantially. Analysts still diverge, one vote "for", while others vehemently defend the opposite point of view. Interestingly, at a recent meeting of the shareholders RIM, the company announced a gliding scale offensive on the various regional markets.In particular the planned expansion of intensive BlackBerry to Russia, so we'll see new items RIM in the Russian retail in the near future. While analysts scratching their spears in the world of abstract market prospects, journalists compare the device alive. In this case - the latest BlackBerry Bold and iPhone 3G. While experience shows that to compare these devices do not discriminate against almost impossible. BlackBerry Bold is recognized as the best among the BlackBerry, and BlackBerry in the corporate environment for more than a well-known and recognized. iPhone - it's completely consumer device, which only makes the first steps in the development of business objectives. The authors, translation:

GPS for Palm. Programs, utilities, impressions

Long ago, even while serving in the army, I saw a prototype GPS receiver, and immediately thought - I wish I was. It's so convenient - always know where you are ... That's just make this vision a reality prevented several things: it was not a real receiver - for positioning satellites are not used, and bind to areas implemented surveyors. Indicator was not at all. The path charted plotter directly on topographic maps. And the most sad - this «GPS» moved on wheels in the back of the GAZ-66, and held most of it. Later, there were these navigators, they cost like a car. And again, the dream remained a dream ... The prices are gradually falling, I often thought about buying a GPS-as well. But once I got into the hands of the magazine "Submarine", and I learned that there are Pocket PCs Palm. Thorny path of buying Palm-a, I reduced to phrases - "... I bought it."

So here you are, the reindeer!

Desire to acquire GPS does not pass - I love fishing, hunting, or simply wander through the woods, and know where I currently am - a big plus. The more it became clear that the navigator can interbreed with the Palm-ohm, and as a result, track their movements on a map. On the Internet, I have chosen a Garmin eTrex, but in searching for them wandered into the device up for auction on the web, and spontaneously bought a crotch GPS for Palm IIIx. The name of this receiver - Rand McNally Street Finder, or for simplicity - StreetFinder. Brought me a box of volume, revealing that, I'm pleasantly surprised configuration.

Still Life: mukulatura, CDs, and alcohol swabs in the background ...

Peculiarities of the National GPS-navigation. Moscow

Positioning systems and terrain orientation based on GPS (Global Positioning System) are becoming more affordable and widespread. Scheme of their work is simple: GPS navigation devices receive signals from special satellites, process them and, based on these data, can calculate the current location, speed, its direction. In mid-March had the idea to supply the tourist group, is preparing to make a sports trip in the Polar Urals, several sets of GPS-equipment for testing of the equipment in the Far North. PDAs were kindly provided by MakTsentr, and GPS-receivers by CB-Grad.

Preparation of equipment and software

As a result of the development project was agreed that the keyboard device is unlikely to be used effectively in the field, so we were prepared two sets of GPS-based devices running Palm OS and Windows CE.

Palm OS

Apparatus

In preparation for the campaign had to choose between two options with one common shortcoming manifested itself in different ways. The first GPS-kit consisted of a Palm IIIxe and GPS Rand McNally. In this case, Palm is powered by batteries, and GPS-receiver for some reason the battery, which can not be recharged in the tundra. The second set consisted of a Palm Vx and GPS Rand McNally. Here the situation is quite the opposite - PDA powered by a rechargeable battery, and GPS-receiver battery life. This option seemed more successful, because the battery life battery models Palm, as experience shows, quite long. If the battery charge is not enough, then there are compact devices for battery recharging Palm, for example, batteries Krone. Statistics as a resource storage of GPS-receivers has not been practically none at all, so a variant with Palm III has been dropped. Considered another solution for Palm OS - a bunch Visor + HandyGPS by Nexian a connector Springboard. At first glance, this option seemed to be most successful. Both devices are powered by batteries, a set of fairly lightweight and compact, but ... Unfortunately, HandyGPS does not work with standard protokolomi exchange (NMEA-0182, -0183, etc.) between the GPS-receiver and mapping applications. This device operates within its own protocol, which is only supported special supplement HandyGPS. Thus, the variant with Visor'om dropped. Among the virtues of the past "qualifiers" Palm OS GPS-kit, we can note a small weight (about 500, with three sets of batteries), small aggregate size. Disadvantages - no quick way to backup the data obtained on the route, the lack of a backup card and the necessary software, as well as quite a long time-selected for the complex GPS-receiver on the operating mode.

Software

For Palm devices there is only one application that allows you to work with raster (scanned) maps using GPS. The software firm Atlas GPS Pilot. The process of preparing maps is fairly simple.With the help of free utilities any scanned image can be transformed into a database for applications Atlas. You can then enter the area and link the card. Moreover, the binding is carried out by two points, and the card must be soorientirovana north. Procedure is quite responsible, because the quality of binding, as you know, depends on the correctness of the entire future of the complex. Testing of this complex and the software before sending it we have decided to hold district Taganka. For large-scale maps of the distance between the anchor points were only about 80 m, and that was enough for reliable operation GPS. However, in the process of testing revealed a few unpleasant moments. The main difficulty is to find the point at which the GPS-receiver receives signals from satellites steadily and reaches a reasonable level of accuracy of positioning. Atlas means to determine the moment of the GPS-receiver on the operating mode to bind the card fails. We have to use a small, freeware utility NMEA Monitor, which displays all coming from the GPS-receiver data in raw form. The picture shows the beginning of the GPS-receiver. The list shows only two numbers after the equal sign. When their number is four, there is still some tongues, one of which you can see the latitude and longitude values, issued a GPS-receiver. It is necessary to wait until these values ​​are no longer monotonically increasing or decreasing. Once they begin to oscillate around a certain point, we can assume that the GPS-receiver is ready to work. Of course, if the path to the second anchor point GPS-kit does not switch off, then the second time this procedure is not necessary. Another disadvantage is possible to name a few ill-conceived system of working with anchor points, and waypoints. Working with their parameters through an awkward system of windows and menus. For example, the great danger of accidentally deleting a waypoint instead of the entire map. No built-in zoom map: find the right spot on a small PDA screen, especially if the card is great, very difficult. Nevertheless, the Atlas is a definite plus. You can absolutely have no idea of ​​geodesy. Enough to remember some of the action sequences in a program to train in a familiar area, and can safely go into an unfamiliar forest for mushrooms. In addition to display the location on the map Atlas can display speed and direction, altitude, magnetic declination. So, found in the Internet map of the Polar Urals was safely passed through the converter and placed in the Palm. For the guys had written a quick tutorial on using Atlas'om.

Windows CE

Apparatus

In the case of Windows CE, it was decided not to philosophize sly and use the already quite well-proven combination of Cassiopeia E-125 and GPS-receiver Garmin eTrex. Both devices allow you to replace the power source (batteries in Cassiopeia and AA batteries for eTrex). Cassiopeia has always been famous for its beautiful color screen and its application in GPS-kit involves the use of colored cards. However, the advantages of color maps is particularly evident in the summer in rich vegetation, and water obstacles areas. In winter, so even in the desert tundra of the Polar Urals, it is possible to do a map in black and white. Stability and correctness of the eTrex many tested and is beyond doubt. Unlike Palm OS kit, GPS-receiver sets Windows CE can be used independently. The problem of determining the release of the GPS-receiver on the operating mode is solved in hardware. On-screen indicators eTrex is the number of satellites and their level signals. It also shows the current positioning accuracy. Cassiopeia can work with non-volatile memory cards, Compact Flash, so the problem of storing large amounts of cards can be considered solved. Unfortunately, in the case of a hard reset (Hard Reset) with the loss of the contents of memory are unlikely to be able to reset the application, since the built-in tools to work with CF-cards in Cassiopeia is very limited. Large total weight of the package (about a kilogram of batteries, wires and batteries), as well as the need for bulky connection cable, composed of two parts, seemed to arguments against. The second circumstance, however, was then an argument in favor. But more on that below. What is known about the appetites of Cassiopeia in terms of power consumption makes you think about the short period of Windows CE kit even in the presence of two additional battery for Casio. But tests in the Far North have placed everything in its place.

Software

For software to work with raster maps and GPS-Pocket PC hardware shows full solidarity with the Palm. No suggestions. The only existing application - OziExplorer CE. By itself, OziExplorer CE impression of a very high quality product, with a lot of opportunities. In general, the way it is. However, among the many advanced features not, perhaps, the most basic: the possibility of binding maps of the terrain. Scanned map is passed through a special converter, which prepares both herself and scaled up. For the user, this procedure is completely transparent, and when using Ozi transition to a different scale is very fast and convenient. Thus, the card is placed on the CF-card, configure the necessary ways (this should definitely read the documentation, all non-trivial) and ... nothing happens. Ozi offers to open only one. Map-file, not. Ozf2-file, which turned the original map converter. What's the matter? It turns out that OziExporer CE do not know how to attach and adjust the binding maps. Prepare them only in version OziExporer desktop, which costs money. A OziExporer CE only works perfectly with the already-bound cards. Work on the binding map requires some knowledge of geodesy. However, the problem is applied and fully mastered by many.In the networks have found a lot of theoretical and practical material, but the story about this is beyond the scope of the article. Subject of an interesting and worthy of study. In the end, the map of the Polar Urals was tied to the available points on it with the values ​​of latitude and longitude. Generally, there are many options for bindings. Most likely was not chosen the most correct of them, in connection we doubted performance Windows CE - a kit.

Paper GPS-Kit

Consisted of a GPS-receiver eTrex and notepad with pen. All indications of waypoints were entered in the notebook as you travel.

Packing

No special carrying cases at our disposal was not. Besides, it was interesting to find out the stability of devices to allow an external physical influences. The only precautions are standard protective film on the screen plus Silkyboard for Palm. All devices were neatly packed into a thin cardboard box, which for greater moisture protection pasted tape.

User

Honestly, was drawn up hastily, as the dates for the preparation of the expedition were pretty tough. Whether this statement in more detail may subsequently have been able to avoid several mistakes.

Conclusions (preparation):

Palm OS set seemed more suited to the tasks of GPS-navigation users with good skills to guide the application (that is just for tourists, sportsmen). Binding capability maps directly on the ground to avoid the study of the theory of making topographic maps. However, we must know exactly where you are at anchor, and also have some experience in dealing with both Palm, and GPS-enabled. Using a trained and properly attached maps for Pocket PC is very easy and intuitive. User Windows CE does not need to have extensive experience in guiding, but the procedure is binding maps on a desktop computer requires theoretical knowledge, as well as some experience on the use of OziExplorer. Windows CE-package is heavier and cumbersome. Thus, GPS-sets collected and prepared for two-week trip. Train Moscow-Labytnangy "kills four members of the campaign with riot gear in backpacks.

Appendix

Excerpt from the documentation of the project with a description of the main objectives and results of the training

The project has the following objectives:

1. Explore the possibility of real application of GPS-systems in real conditions of the polar regions.
2. Determine the degree of need and usefulness of GPS-complexes in the polar tundra.
3. Develop a technology preparation of maps, to determine the degree of complexity of the process.
4. Compare the GPS-complexes of different platforms: the ease of use, accurate readings, and reliability.

A list of requirements:

1. Devices should as long as possible to work offline.
2. The devices must be resistant.
3. The software must support the loading of raster maps with location.
4. The software must provide a link with a GPS-receivers and displays the data: the location on the map attached to the terrain, speed, current position, altitude, direction of movement.

List of equipment:

1. Windows CE GPS-complex (total weight about 900 g)
   • Cassiopeia E-125
   • 48 MB Compact Flash storage cards
   • GPS-Receiver Garmin eTrex
   • Patch Cord
   • 2 extra charged battery for Cassiopeia
   • 2 extra sets of batteries for eTrex
   • Software
     • Ozi Explorer CE for PPC
     • Ozi Explorer for PC
2. Palm OS GPS-complex (total weight about 450 g.)
   • Palm Vx
   • GPS-receiver Rand McNally for Palm V series
   • 2 extra sets of batteries for
   • Software
     • GPS Pilot Atlas
     • GPS Pilot Cartographer
     • NMEA Monitor

Windows CE benefits (in preparation of equipment):

1. Color screen, color map.
2. Placement of cartographic material on the CF-volatile memory card.
3. Ability to replace power supplies as a PDA and a GPS-receiver.
4. The ability to use GPS-receiver without connecting to a PDA.

Windows CE defects (in preparation of equipment):

1. The need for a cable to connect the GPS-receiver and Cassiopeia.
2. Overall a great mass of GPS-kit.
3. High power consumption device.

Palm OS advantage (in preparation of equipment):

1. The overall light weight GPS-kit.
2. A long time PDA offline.
3. Palm and GPS-receiver are connected together.

Palm OS flaws (in preparation of equipment):

1. Inability to replace the batteries in the PDA.
2. Screen with 16 shades of gray, no color map.
3. GPS-receiver can be used without the CCP.
4. All data is stored in memory and are not protected from loss.

Preparation of maps and software

Windows CE advantages:

1. Color map
2. Fast zooming
3. Convenience interface OziExplorer

Windows CE disadvantages:

1. Need for a thorough study of the principles of the topography, types of bindings cards, etc.
2. Lack of tools to bind / bind correction maps in place directly on the Windows CE device.
3. Snap cards implemented in software for desktop computers, which is worth the extra money.
4. No built-in status display of GPS-receiver.

Palm OS benefits:

1. Special knowledge of the topography is not required.
2. Binding is carried out directly on the ground at two points.
3. Converter card is free.

Palm OS disadvantages:

1. Black and white map with shades of gray.
2. Poorly designed interface Atlas, some operations is not trivial and can lead to unpleasant consequences.
3. No built-in status display of GPS-receiver.
4. Lack of scalability.

The authors, translation:

The new budget handheld Sony PEG-SL10: stylish and affordable

Market introduction of cheap and very cheap computers Palm (or rather - "palmoobraznyh") may be considered not just good, but very good news. Small computer for the small amount of money will lure not only the nuts on a miniature computing users, like me, but people hitherto on the handheld machines do not look. If no awareness of the urgent need for both fashion, not fashion, so the low price - something still incline of the potential buyer to try Palm, in fact. And by "try" to "get hooked" on Pocket PC (health is perfect, mind you, inoffensive, and even in very useful) one step. And I'm living proof that ... The release of the new Pocket PC budget class Sony PEG-SL10 coincided with a significant event for me - except for time-tested (and what is really there, my own stupidity) Casio BE-300, I won a Palm m125. And, I must admit, it causes a storm not put me on the age of delight. Indeed, the machine excellent, extremely functional. Nothing more, but all you need creative person to work (and for fun too) is present. This fact is of little significance from a private life, I mention only to inform - to compare different model palmoobraznyh "I'm now much easier. Practice is practice - against the backdrop of daily hours of testing m125 (I hope he survives this abuse), theoretical arguments about the unknown models become necessary share specifics. It is hard to describe new machines, not knowing clearly what they have on the screen, right? According to the old "chaynikovskoy" habit will start with what pleases the eye - from the exterior of SL10.

Exterior

Externally, the new Sony PEG-SL10 - it is a miracle. And not "feathered" as many Chinese clones, of which we see only in the foreign press releases (I do not know whether this is good or so-so), and a miracle in the literal sense. Grace on the verge of perfection. Beauty that flatters tired boring technocratic style of soul. Those who saw in his hands, or personally owned one of Sony's series of T, are aware that these machines are not only amazingly comfortable, but very beautiful. As thin as foil-chocolate bar, aluminum body, tiny buttons, a deep black (monochrome or color - no difference) Such a computer screen ... pleased to pick up. This prestigious thing. Other "palmovladeltsy" (and those who understand) obzaviduyutsya into the board. Even my Palm m125, to the exterior of which I am still not used to, but because I think very spectacular, "face" is clearly a rustic. Next to my Sony m125 looks like a rustic shepherd near the Princess ... The design resembles the design of computers SL10 T series, but not copy it. True, the body is noticeably thicker - for use as a power source replacement elements AAA rather than a lithium battery (the first computer from Sony, which has no battery), and he himself is not aluminum, and plastics. But the ergonomics have changed for the better. In addition to its navigation wheel on-screen menu (jog dial), the back button (back), located on the left side of the body, except for four call buttons main application, one of the major governing bodies Pocket PC are the scroll button (which is exactly duplicated jog dial 'th). Members typewriters Sony knows how inconvenient thing - these buttons. Tiddly, neuhvatistye (or, more precisely, "nenazhimistye"), although, no doubt, beautiful to an inability to ... But we also do not look at them, pressing need! Here's Sony in their first computers SL series and made the navigation buttons to be normal. Beauty is not affected. Plastic casing - does not lack, as it may seem in comparison with, say, Sony T425 (excellent monochrome computer). Indirect evidence of this is the story of a laptop Titanium from Apple, located in the merciless daily operation of my friend. Rugged metal housing of this machine is prone to scratches. Product appearance is lost fairly quickly. And it's Titan - one, and a notebook - two. What to say about the painted aluminum, and PDA, a place near where keys and other small things barbed? A good plastic (and PDAs are not made from some kind of nonsense) is durable and, in principle, a more ergonomic than the metal. Although the species is certainly not a representative ... Pick up a typewriter in the cold (near zero cold "thieves" can not tolerate). The plastic will warm the palm, aluminum - cool. However, this is not an argument, of course. I just want to say that plastic - it's a bad thing, especially for such a cheap machine, as the SL10 ... What else - of the features? Slot Memory Stick (other than the Sony impossible) in the upper part of the body. Near - infrared transceiver box and the power button (backlight). "Flaming engine" is the usual 33-MHz processor Dragonball. Memory on board - 8 megabytes. Operating system - Palm OS 4.1. That is all like a normal Palm `s.

Food

Application in the SL10 replacement elements instead of the internal battery has as its cause - the maximum possible reduction in the cost of the computer and its consequences. For a start try to evaluate - do not move it back and whether their computer is on battery, though not too big, money. In everyday practice, when the PDA is used on the way to and from work, built-in battery thing is very convenient and profitable. Battery life for 9-10 (the monochrome models, T Series) or 7-8 hours (colored computers Sony) will suffice for the whole day. Are not going well on the handheld machine prodelyvat serious work? But for "killing" time, or use a small computer as an electronic book (handbook, cribs, handheld game console - whatever) battery charge is enough. Another thing - a long trip or a clear lack of access to the electrical outlet. Here's the situation - you go on holiday abroad. Palm (or Sony) course with itself. And to him - a set of "Travel Kit", consisting of a heap (okay, let a handful) of electrical adapters. There's also another outlet, not our standard. Moreover, in each region - their own. And the computer from this "Travel" ceases to be a pocket, turning into a "suitcase" ... And of plug everything easier. Batteries are sold even in the dense pampas. This is the same seller as well as chewing gum ... So nobody knows what is ultimately better - built-in battery (limiting the life of your computer a couple of years), or removable elements (which can be regarded as the power source of unlimited capacity). Another plus is revealed upon closer study of the target niche, for which the new model. Its the cheapest PDA Sony addresses the youth. And in a nice young age, people generally are not burdened with offices or even desks. Know yourself - a young, green, in the head walking such winds, even jealous ... where to attach the cradle to recharge the battery (while the SL10 and it does not)? But in the pocket "bezofisnogo" owner of the new cars full of every electronic stuff - the same music players that use removable elements of AAA. In a sense, get some kind of universal.Do not have very wise of recharging the empty "cartridge-, right? However, in the two older models of the series - in monochrome and color SJ20 SJ30, which now will soon be submitted after we viewed by the machine - used in lithium batteries. But the price of cars, respectively, above.

Screen

High resolution "palmoobraznyh" computers from Sony has long been talk of the town. " That, they say, how to do handheld computers - to patch on the screen was 320 by 320, but not pathetic 160 to 160 points ... But nevertheless the question arises - but should it really? Use the maximum screen resolution, Sony's latest models (those that support hi-resolution) is usually sporadic. View photos - is yes. Toys? Maybe. Normal working program (reader, pisalki, risovalka, rhymes) - no. When you enable high-resolution, where applicable, the system fonts are thin (even transparent), it is difficult to read. Different file navigator, and the shell can accommodate a much larger number of icons, but what they see on such a small screen? As for viewing photos, then this is an amateur. A scrolling video (without sound!) And does seem to me ... with the current - "Ponte". True, he is not neglected. And I'm worse than others, or what? Whatever it was, but certainly a plus hi-resolution can be considered as additional options that appear in computer owners Sony. You can enjoy high-definition options, but you can not use it. Especially because the cost of machines, according to new models of the series SL, it has no effect. Now about the actual Sony PEG-SL10. With the screen at this girl, alas, not the glory of God. The deep black color - like the T415/425. Image contrast and bright. Illumination level. But drawing the screen very slow. Change the picture is about half a second. For dynamic games (and, note autoscrolling in reader) will not do. What is it - the price of high resolution in the budget PC? Or use is clearly unfinished matrix? Most likely, something, and more. Although the inhibition seen and when you run in the normal resolution 160 by 160 pixels. For some people this lack of a new computer (unlikely or unique, but - what!) Will be decisive. We still display "brake" is not enough - all well-known simplification of the operating system Palm OS. Something's wrong here ...

Some speculate

Figure was, unfortunately, not all. Soothes only that a matter of time. Not today - tomorrow will be a new computer in our stores, then all of understatement clearer themselves. Here, for example, the communication connector. In models of senior-level line - SJ20 and SJ30 - used the system connector HotSync from the series T. Respectively, and all the accessories that were released for the PC series of T, will come to SJ20 and SJ30. And what about the youngest SL10? It is said the first review, integrated port USB. And the cradle in the standard package is not for synchronization use the "string" USB mini-connector. And then there are a number of issues.For example - whether produced any original accessories for the SL10, or the computer will "Kazan orphan? Suit if the computer does not "pocket" and normal extensions with interface USB - Modem reader for memory cards, external disk drives, keyboards? If possible at least theoretically (for instance, Sony itself is not going to write drivers, but we also fully zlatorukih folk art), why charms USB deprived older series models? And why not talk about this innovation? Personally, I would have raised such an enthusiastic high, ran away to all computer-related brethren. The presence of regular USB port on the Pocket PC entry-level price - it's a real revolution. No problems with the periphery, can you imagine? Or in the SL10 uses some kind of originality raspolovinennaya modification of USB. Again - why? Or in the SL10 uses some kind of originality raspolovinennaya modification of USB. Again - why? Either I do not understand everything, or one of two things.

When the wait?

Terms rollout of new computers (and the SL and SJ will come most likely together) still seem to be announced. But in any case it is the beginning of the school year - that is, not later than the beginning of September. New low-end models have forced rivals Sony (the company itself Palm) to drastically reduce prices on their computers. In the near future, perhaps we should expect further progress and to Sony, because the line SL in one way or another will have to compete with more expensive models from the same manufacturer. I think in the older typewriters series will add some to justify two or even three times the difference in the cost of computers. With regard to exports to Russia, then a long wait we do not have to. Sony is too significant player in the PDA market to remain unnoticed by the Russian sellers of computer technology. And her computers too good to lie around in warehouses. True, I would not count on those $ 150, for which Sony PEG-SL10 will be sold in Western markets. We will ask for this machine is more expensive - as always, of dollars to 50. The authors, translation:

Peculiarities of the National GPS-navigation. Polar Urals

26.03.01

So our trip begins! Exit from the car of a train with the romantic name "Moscow Labytnangy" and immediately understand that "here you are not here! Although, like, and the weather is nice, but pulling a breeze blows through. But the cold can not stop our leader - this fighter for the promotion of technical progress in the Far North. He immediately tries to bind the card into the Palm Vx to the coordinates of our real position. Standing in the cold, patiently waiting for the completion of the historic moment. We, too, for the progress! In general, ... Associated all-terrain vehicle, an unknown, but rather "prohodimistoy" design, gives us, as follows, to warm up walking and dovozit almost to the entrance to our valley - a point of departure. Vzmetnuv to the sky clouds of snow treads, he is hiding, but we are going to ski a bit further and get up on the first night. About -20 and the wind. All are engaged in furnishing life, but our leader is only interested in the process of "binding of the second coordinate" in the Palm Vx, Cassiopeia E125 inspection work and GPS eTrex. It turns out it works! "Unexpected" is called. And even what we see on the paper map, and around, completely coincides with the instrument readings! Fall asleep, it is nice affected power of knowledge.

Conclusions of Day:

GPS for Palm Vx shows that he had found as many as 12 satellites for a long time to move to the small screen some numbers. Waiting for results is delayed, and in fact does not end. So it is not clear - the receiver has identified its location or not. To make sure that the satellite signals received clear and you can work on, you need to go to another application (NMEA Monitor), but it's not very convenient. Another subject - eTrex in conjunction with the Cassiopeia "savvy" is much faster: catch the satellite signals and then displays the accuracy of the coordinates. True, Cassiopeia E-125 so far focused on the ground worse than us: the difference in determining the point on the map is about 800 meters. While the maximum precision of our measurements - 6m. This is probably due to the fact that the map for Cassiopeia had to cook on a desktop computer. The coordinates of the night:

Playing catch-up, or Casio BE-300 against Palm'a

When we were about a year ago, first learned about the Casio BE-300, followed by computer analysts began to call him not only as "killer." Well, yes - "Killer Palm'a. Wild, wild boar. Bloodthirsty vampire ...

Casio BE-300

And what is he a vampire? In the sense - it is, little darling "Beshka? Look at it closely. It's just a pocket-sized machine. Cute and comfortable. Miracle, not a computer! And to suspect it of predatory intent - a grave sin. She did not kill anyone and does not intend to kill. As they say, Palm'u palmovo and "Behe - behino. Is not it? By the way, nice to talk more substantively. Identify strengths and weaknesses, to compare features of the application. Perhaps these arguments will help someone make a choice in favor of the BE-300 or Palm'a. You can not spend money on, and on both. While I - has spent ... very much wanted to try for yourself. It happens.

Beauty - terrible force

We compare the computers of about the same class. On the one hand Casio BE-300, on the other - Palm m125, and (when it touches of color and power from the internal battery) m130. Still, these cars are close in value and are not too money-user.

Palm m125

Externally, BE-300 looks decent, but intelligently. In her case there is no right of brilliant linings, nickel grids and other tinsel. The buttons are the arc and have an elongated teardrop-shaped. To its credit, Casio should be noted that the buttons well protected overhangs the hull, and press them by accident is almost impossible. At the same time trigger buttons clear, with a tangible tactile feedback. As navigation devices in the BE-300 uses flat mini-joystick - a large diamond-shaped button, which has four degrees of freedom. However, perhaps all eight, but the intermediate positions, I never felt (perhaps feeling the ill). This navigation button is properly performing its functions, but sometimes it still fails. Flipping through a book-reader program, I occasionally inadvertently press a button instead of upwards and upwards and sideways (yeah, that's you and the intermediate position!). And the book machine can be browsed through at the beginning ... We have to come back, find the desired page. Favorites, I do not put ... In short, happens. Plastic, from which the casing is made of BE-300, scratch-resistant and has a matte, textured surface. Smooth only silver inserts on the sides. So keep the machine in the hand easily and comfortably. Even in the heat of the computer does not slip from his hands and did not seem wet. But the silver insert themselves I do not like. And who like painted plastic? Bullshit some, honestly ... But the overall impression does not take away ... Now, take in hand, Palm series mXXX (in our case the m125). In my opinion the body of the inexpensive Palm `a little simple-in registration, but quite ergonomic. Lower body tide, concave button - fingers as expressed in young people, relax. Did not like the button on the computer (and the backlight). Tight, works with a loud click. But sensitive - in defiance of BE-300, in which food, sometimes, on / off is not the first time. But really liked the protective cover that shields the screen and the Palm `. In m125, it rubber, soft, with shaped bulge on the lower side - on-screen aperture, with a Plexiglas window through which you can see current time, not including the Palm - by pressing the scroll up through another cut in the same cover. Protective cover fastened hinges to the body of Palm `Yes. Rim loop drowned under a removable faceplate, so just get rid of the cap difficult. But to lose - too hard. To cover does not interfere with work, it can be pulled back.And poluotkinutom situation it becomes a stand for your computer - just like a desktop folding mirrors. And here at BE-300 cover is worthless. It is made by the same principle as in the old Palm `s third series - as a rigid hinged cover for other paper notebooks. Cover can tilt forward, increasing the size of the computer twice. Ago, it does not stack and stand (or, rather, focus) can not serve ... No, awkward thing. At his typewriter, I took it off right away ... We return to the Palm `y ... plastic base housing at the proper level, the same textured, rough to the touch surface. But removable lid with a silver (in blue m130) insert - into the black of its parts - the slippery hands and even unpleasant. Soap some (if not - tallow). And this despite the fact that the surface of plastic mat, but not smooth ... However, it is unimportant trifle, you can factor out (again - maybe my hands are incorrect).

Palm m130

By weight of both computers (BE-300 and Palm) are roughly equal - plus or minus a few grams are not considered. A Palm in size considerably smaller. And in his pocket is comfortable to wear all the same Palm. Therefore Palm `a set of five round appearance, and Casio BE-300 - Four, but that's Taken a plus.

Window in the microcosm

Now compare the screens ... a difficult task. Firstly, the cars belong to different platforms, which directly compare very difficult. And, secondly, the Casio BE-300 is one of the best screens among handheld computers in general. (Note that this is not just my opinion and the opinion of many users who have tried different machines). Screen BE-300 is built on the technology of passive matrix color LCD. Nevertheless, it looks no worse aktivnomatrichnyh reflective screens Pocket PC 2002. The reason for this high-quality matrix - once, and small (by the standards of Pocket PC) screen sizes. Resolution remains the same as that of the older models of the family - 240 by 320 pixels. I had a chance to "play" with the color vyave Sony, the screen resolution is 320 by 320, and, of course, compare it with BE. I gave preference to Casio. Even the pictures on it look better than Sony ... Although one can argue with me (I will not resist). Passive matrix (dual scan - so the on-screen BE-300 is sometimes visible band split screen) is slow down your property when displaying rapidly changing images. And it is retarding. In games it is almost invisible - because of low resolution. And when playing video ... also almost imperceptibly. Anyway, to convert movies to "pocket" format with a resolution of 160 by 160 pixels, I will gladly watched wow boevichok (fights, terrible shooting, but at the end of "our" all win). And what headphones - your ears, glasses - in my eyes and see myself formic movie, though obsmotris! .. By the way - to fit the hour and a half movie on a 64-megabyte flash drive, I divided the film into four parts. Troublesome, irrationally (laptop right there next to it), but in principle it is possible ... Palm `from these refinements are not able to do. That "movie" that can run on the Palm `s, it is not. No sound, the screen slows down. No fun. Color screen for Palm m130, too, is built on the technology of passive matrix, but looks different than the BE-300. No worse and no better, but it otherwise. Even the pictures on the screen m130 I somehow did not liked. That is, they somehow just not liked as compare video playback on these computers really really stupid ... Three features of the screen Casio BE-300 - a nasty, second and third so-so funny. Unpleasant feature - at a minimum (25%) level of the backlight is noticeable uneven illumination of the matrix. Right edge of the screen becomes yellow, which sometimes prevents view pictures and even read a book ("catches the eye, though burst). But it is necessary to add brightness and this effect disappears. Have to balance between power saving and more comfortable screen reading. So-so feature - when you turn on the BE-300 passive matrix takes time to warm up. Depending on outside temperature (and probably the nature of a particular instance of machines), the matrix is ​​heated from one to three minutes, first giving enough contrast. But then the screen comes into operation and becomes bright and contrasting. An amusing feature - the screen BE-300 is not the center of the front panel, as it seems at first glance. He shifted to the left, which is not so easy to overlook. I saw on the seventh month of ruthless exploitation of the computer ... They say, easy asymmetry person a necessary condition of beauty. Judging by appearances Casio BE-300, then the way it is. Now about the screen Palm `s budget. On the matrix m130, we have already spoken. Only add that, unlike older brothers (sisters?) M130 screen more like a darkened room, and even less fond of sunshine. In general we can say that for the Pocket PC on the street will not do any Palm m130, or Casio BE-300. In bright sunlight the screen can not see anything. In the shadow of something that can be discerned. In the room, but still enough twilight - the image is excellent. A completely different situation with a monochrome screen Palm m125 ... You know, I would not call that a small monochrome screen is m125 (and, generally, all the monochrome Palm `s) perfect. I would not call him even more or less acceptable to display grayscale graphics. But this is the only type of liquid crystal display, capable of running completely in all conditions except extreme cold and extreme heat. It is curious that on a monochrome screen m125 looks good even toys - unless, of course, be included on all cylinders imagination "palmovaldeltsa. And working with the texts are no less comfortable than on computers with color screens ... Here, I confess, I'm exaggerating a bit (once in a hundred, not more). Read with a color screen is much nicer than monochrome. Therefore, filling up on the couch with a book, I take all the same "Behu. But starting in the short-lived (or vice versa - in the long) journey into his pocket put - Palm. Ratings for the quality of the screen. Casio BE-300 - Five-one. Four-plus because of the small size put Palm m130. And three - Palm m125. But a strong triple! Muscular like a wrestler Karelin.

When the machine asks a

If we choose a PDA only on battery life, I would go with a light heart, exclaimed: "Brothers and sisters, do not you take this nonsense BE-300! Obrydaetes a board mykayas with a dead battery it!" But the fact of the matter is that lean battery - perhaps the only drawback Casio BE-300 ... But by no means unique. But the rest can be put up (still get $ 250 a full PC based on Windows CE - it is, I tell you, this good luck). On a weak battery, BE-300 is not just lazy writing. And the output seems to be unavailable - external battery pack from the most Casio's Russia is not driven (because blamed for small capacity and high price), the power supply of replacement elements looks horrible samopalom (this is) ... But then I read - "Leather Cover for the BE-300 with built-in power supply.And somewhere I read - on our site! Mama dear, yes the same is the very unique solution that pulls us, the owners of BE-300 from the pool inescapable sadness! Oh, you're my home MakTsentr! What do you really molodchinka ... Give, give the author's imagination roam! Give to dream about this wondrous gadgets. The fact that the BE-300 is difficult to find suitable to sit, as poured, cover (box, bag and so on), commonly known fact. We have to shift, selecting products companies Hama and her youngest daughter Samsonite (or - Xigma). Companies producing these wonderful handbags, some of which are suitable for Casio BE-300, like the people ... The fact that replacement items are packed in a plastic container and connected to the computer wiring, not the most elegant for the BE-300 solution is also well known. But what really can you do .. Now imagine the cover, which has a pocket for a plane ... rechargeable batteries? Yes, at least for the native from Casio (only 10 dollars - nonsense). And - a connector for the charger ... Okay, let the usual elements of AA, the main thing - this thing will not hang out somewhere near or attached to a typewriter eraser pharmacy. What can I add? Only one - waiting for ... The relatively new m130 problems such as a BE-300, operating on internal battery from 2 to 4 hours, no. In contrast, m130 "live" longer than the older models of Palm computers, since the area of ​​the screen it has a smaller, but the battery is exactly the same. That is, the load on the lithium battery, which mainly falls on the provision of energy the backlight screen, and then to meet the computing needs of the CCP, below. This and ample battery life - 8-10 hours (or longer). After suffering from the immediate discharge the battery BE-300, picking up a Palm m125, I feel, like in a pocket-computer paradise ... and evaluation of food I put these: Palm m130 - Five, Casio BE-300 - a pitiful, shameful troechku ( Yet a few hours of work). How much was food for Palm m125? If you can not put the top six, I give him a million dollars. Or even two.

Rise and shine

On the audio features Casio BE-300 can be said briefly - they're gorgeous. Impression of a little spoiled but no built-in speaker. But, you see, listen to MP3 songs better with good stereotelefonov than tiddly speaker giving sound shrill notes of cockroach ... On the sonic possibilities Palm m125 and m130 can say is even shorter - they are not at all. You can not call the sound of beeping buzzer system (which, incidentally, is in the BE-300)? As the clock all the computers described deserve only three points. Wake up faint sounds alarms BE-300 and the m125 I have get through the times.

Droplets fly in the ointment

Ideal computers did not happen ... But you know that without me. The only question is whether these or other shortcomings capable of spoiling the pleasure of working with a handheld machine. Disadvantages Casio BE-300 are in the nature of unrealized opportunities. It would be desirable, for example, without the hassle to use "Behu" paired with a cell phone. But this is impossible, since BE-300 is no infrared port, and communication cables to the popular phone models have simply not produced. But the BE-300 works seamlessly with memory cards and peripherals in the format of CompactFlash. Recognized even Micridrive! Yes, and devices for the CF slot is produced by the thousand ... Expansion cost Palm `s special raises no objections. Sorry, of course, that the periphery of the format SD cards prohibitively expensive. But other devices - the same covers, keyboards, various kinds of cables and adapters - albeit with a spoon, eat. More or less significant disadvantage Palm `and I would call a weak infrared. Stable communication is possible at a distance of 20 centimeters. But more is just not needed. Important - this same port is ... Summing the final outcome, I dare say - no matter what machine you take, whether it's Casio BE-300, Palm m130 or m125, you are in any case not lose. All of the computers - the masterpieces of engineering, graceful, intelligent digital devices, these assistants at work and home. And the cost - look at the price! By the standards of the portable digital devices 200-250 dollars is really cheap. We only need to understand that none of the handheld computers is not universal.Casio BE-300 - a remarkable "sofa" machine. She can be nice to play, can be more convenient to read a book. Or stick your computer under your pillow - so as not to wake for work. It can take with him to the metro, where for four hours in a row no one travels. But if your path stretches over the clock and it happens more frequently than once a year, it is best to choose a color Palm. He easily make it to the nearest outlet, and will not shut down because of battery depletion in the most interesting place. " Finally, for the inveterate wanderers matchplan the cities and villages and not to shun modern digital technology (such as satellite GPS navigator or stuffed unimaginable service functions of a cell phone), a good choice would be a monochrome Palm m125. He is able to perform the same tasks that computers and color. Without any special frills, but honestly and to the last drop ... alkaline electrolyte. The authors, translation: