At first glance: Card-size PDA Royal Vista

Hot donuts Vista

One of the nearly vacant industries PDA - this area of ​​so-called Card-size PDA, that is, the CPC about the size of a credit card. The most prominent representatives of this class - a line of PDA REX. And then, finally, the web has been discovered about the new PDA Royal Vista with similar capabilities, but less expensive (around $ 60) and, accordingly, claim to be the "people's" PDA, a kind of "hot donuts" being sold on every corner . So what is really behind flashy words and bright pictures? As far as this PDA may be of interest in Russia? Company MakTsentr courtesy hPCru one copy for study and testing.

In Store

Beautiful packaging in the style adopted in modern Taiwanese peripherals for desktops (eg, Genius): slightly pretentious and impractical. Inside you can find: PDAs Vista.

Mobile watch

The idea to combine several devices into one recently acquired povalny character. This process can be safely called a trend in the industry. The form factor of a wristwatch is becoming more popular among manufacturers of mobile equipment. Take, for example, mobile phones ... With what they just did not interbreed? As such cell is no longer enough, and manufacturers are trying hard, adding to the regular "cell phone" all sorts of "gadgets". A simple example - the so-called smart phones - a "smart phones" (from the English smart - "smart", phone - "phone"). Hybrid mobile phone and handheld computer - is the most common example. But in this paper we do not consider this type of device. We'll talk about the watch, not just hours, and in symbiosis with various devices. Ever wanted to warn readers that this story does not claim to leadership, but has only informative character. Thus, we start our excursion into the bizarre world of devices, but first consider some quite ordinary at first glance wristwatches. We adhere to the principle - from simple to complex, from small to great. This copy is represented by Allied Data Technology. This wristwatch Tornado USB Memory Watch with built-in flash memory.

Tornado USB Memory Watch

Tornado USB Memory Watch (UMW) - a portable storage device built into an elegant wristwatch-based quartz movement Citizen 2035. Watch case is protected from shock and is waterproof to a depth of 30 m. The Tornado UMW performed in 3 different versions: with 64, 128 and 256 MB of memory. Read speed is 1000 KB / s write speeds - 920 kbytes / sec. Battery life - 3 years. If necessary, Tornado UMW allows sensitive data to password protect. The supported standard - USB 1.1. When used in operating systems 98SE, 2000, ME, XP, Linux 2.4 and higher, Mac OS 8.6 and above or PDA with Windows CE 3.0 driver installation is required. Estimated price for UMW ranges from 70 to 200 Euro, depending on the size of a drive. Does not that interesting instance? More - more ... The next device from the company LAKS has an even more interesting options - presented in an improved version of the clock LAKS USB Memory. Upgrading is an integrated 256 MB "flash", the rest - all the same as before. Price of approximately - 149 euros. In addition to this model in the line of present models: 32 MB, 64 MB and 128 MB. Watches are sold only in Europe. Communication with the computer through an interface USB 1.1. Reading speed up to 1 Mb / s, write - 0,92 MB / sec. There is also a version with USB 2.0.

LAKS USB Memory

When you connect to your PC clock to place a 9-hour mark of status indicator lights. Hours are supported by the following operating systems: Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Linux 2.4, Mac OS 8.6. Unit dimension 11 x 40 mm., Weight - 43 grams. Waterproof (to a depth of 1 m - 30 minutes, at a depth of 20 m - 1.5 min), has protection from static and shock. The clock mechanism was designed by Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. The package includes a CD with drivers for Windows for password protection of data and meter extension cable. We reviewed several examples of successful synthesis of traditional watches and computer technology to improve the functionality of the first. But this is only the beginning. Next, get acquainted with even more intelligent and high-tech devices. The very first attempt to unite his watch and a computer were OnHand PC - clock microcomputer - an attempt, I think, not entirely successful. Watches were cumbersome, not very easy to handle, and lost as a notebook as PDAs and phones. Therefore we shall not greatly sharpen our focus on this device, we turn to more interesting, "devaysa" ...In this situation, it is not surprising that such a computer giant, as a corporation Microsoft, has also decided to contribute and learn at the same time another new, maybe a promising market for handheld devices. The head of Microsoft Bill Gates held in Las Vegas in January 2003, the Consumer Electronics Show introduced the wristwatch, based on the so-called technology SPOT (Smart Personal Object Technology). Watches have been issued specifically on the eve of launching Microsoft's new online service called MSN Direct. Its subscribers can receive a variety of information from news and stock quotes to the data on the repertoire of movie theaters, restaurant menus for such a watch. The head of Microsoft described the SPOT-device like this: "If before the clock was part of a pager, the pager will now reverse part of the clock." So we have to deal with clock-pager!

Watch-pager from Microsoft, technology-based SPOT

The release of these hours, created based on SPOT-technology, will be engaged in quite well-known companies Fossil and Suunto. The cost of such "smart" her watch will be from 100 to 300 U.S. dollars. Information on them will come on the radio FM-band. Network Services MSN Direct will be available in 100 U.S. cities located in 50 states, as well as in all major centers in Canada. It should be noted that Microsoft is far unlonely in their endeavors, and commitment to the creation of hours based on the new technology also demonstrate Fossil, Suunto and Citizen Watch Co: Will the technology available outside North America, in our region is still unknown. One can only hope ... Another interesting device, a watch with a built-in digital camera were presented by Casio. First there were the model WQV-1 / 2 and WQV-3, equipped with 25,344-pixel color CMOS sensor and allows you to store and up to 80 images (to JPEG, Built-in Memory 1 MB), which then can be transferred to the computer using the infrared port. Watches are equipped with 120 x 120 built-in LCD display with 16 shades of gray, playing the role as a viewfinder and the screen to view the footage.

Hours WQV3D-8 with integrated digital camera

Subsequently, these models have been upgraded. They were replaced by new - WQV-10, in general, repeating their predecessors. Watch differed only by color STN LCD display. Dimensions of the screen is 20x20 pixels, the resolution supported by 78h80 points.

Improved clock WQV-10

WQV-10 (in part of a digital camera) is also equipped with a 1 / 14 "color CMOS sensor to 25,344 pixels, the system of double optical zoom, use the JPEG compression format and give a picture size of 176x144 pixels. In addition, the built-in clock flash-memory capacity of 1 MB can store up to 100 images, unlike previous models where the number of photos were limited eighties. The infrared port allows wireless connection, as with the PC, and with the predecessor models. It should be noted that the data rate in this case reaches 115.200 BPS.Dimensions are 39.3 x 51 hours, 1h18, 2 mm, and weight varies depending on the material from which made strap (WQV-10J with a rubber strap - 47 grams, WQV-10DJ with a metal strap - 106 g), respectively. As I said earlier, we will move from simple to complex, from small to great. And the time has come. We turn to the most interesting, most complex and truly "mobile an hour! The exhibition WORLD PC EXPO 2001 from the Citizen and IBM Japan Ltd. presented their development - watch the operating system Linux. WatchPad 1.5 computer (as they are called) are, in fact, a microcomputer. On the show exhibited two main versions: a model with a black and white LCD display with a resolution 96h120 and watches with an electroluminescent display, which supports resolution of 640x480 (in Fig. Left).

WatchPad 1.5 computer

Linux-clock technology support wireless voice and data Bluetooth, and IrDA 1.1 - infrared data transfer and printing. Given their small size, the number of embedded I / O devices is simply amazing. Judge: fingerprint scanner, speaker, microphone, keys and sensitive touch screen. Feeds on the tiny built-in PDA Li-Ion battery. The heart of the watch is 32-bit processor, and the board contains 8 MB of RAM and 8 MB flash. It eats all this economy from the internal battery, charged through the docking station. In WatchPad 1.5 is lightweight version of Linux, a simple software with an address book, scheduler, games and notebooks. However, watch quite voracious, and, according to IBM, able to operate on a single charge of not more than a day. Their size - 65 x 46 x 16 mm, weight - 1943 Senior Consultant IBM Vaytvik Glen (Glenn Wightwick) reported that the company has no intentions to promote this model to the market, though, if such a device has all the advantages of mobile phones, PDAs and was equipped with high-resolution displays, it certainly would have waited for success. The creation of these hours is just one of many projects under the company's commitment to spend 1 billion dollars. the development of Linux. The main task WatchPad - to prove that the OS is able to administer any type of devices - from largest to smallest. Follow on. So, we have the first version of the hours of Fossil. This unit is compatible with PDAs running Windows operating system Palm OS. According to the manufacturer, the clock is particularly suited to owners of series handhelds Palm III, V, VII, m100 and m500, as well as the Handspring Visor PDA and Edge, and Sony Clie. As vice president of technology at Fossil Donald Brewer said in an interview with Wireless NewsFactor, "using the infrared port available on most modern PDAs, data from the handhelds can be loaded into the clock, which is calculated only on their reading. This information is stored in the built memory capacity of 190 KB. This volume will be enough to keep track of your 1100 contacts, 800 different activities planned, or 350 memos. The owner of these watches can receive up to 20 electronic business cards sent from a PDA or other smart hours. Access to information by means of four-button, causing the drop-down menu.Among other things, a clock, of course, show time:)

Watches Fossil FX2001

Specs are: CPU Motorola DragonballVZ 33 MHz, 2 MB RAM and 2 MB of flash memory, Palm OS 4.1, touch screen display with a resolution of 160x160 pixels, showing up to 16 shades of gray. There is a built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery, which lasts for 4 days (30 minutes per day) work. Dimensions her watch are 35x51x12, 5 mm. A little later, the second version was released hours - Fossil Wrist PDA-PC, compatible with devices based on the PocketPC. If we compare the Fossil Wrist PDA with the average sports watch, you will notice that the first still more, however, is not much. Dimensions Pocket PC-version - 44 mm in length, 50 mm in width, 15 mm in thickness. In addition, reviews, PDAs hours - pretty light - 75 grams. May not be too elegant for the ladies, but just right for someone who wants to show off a miracle technology.

Watches Fossil Wrist PDA-PC

For many, this device may be a good substitute for a PDA in campaigns, on weekends and in the field for continued access to the diary, address book and other functions of the usual PDAs. In a round plastic containers Fossil, according to the manufacturer, put everything necessary for modern man. Includes self Wrist PDA-PC, a cradle for synchronization, CD with programs, instructions for use, and eight 3V-lithium batteries. Stand allows you to place for information exchange and Pocket PC clock in close proximity to each other. Fossil feeds two batteries, which should suffice for 1,5 - 3 months depending on use. When the batteries sit down, all information is stored in flash memory. Wrist PDA-PC runs on an 8-bit processor, and Epson has a 48 KB ROM and 190 KB RAM. Contacts section allows you to store multiple phone numbers, email addresses and notes for each contact. "Diary" allows you to schedule a week or a month, and about coming events may alert signal. However, his memory is limited to 40 KB (if all of the memory, the download will take considerable time). True, the manufacturer recommends the use of these, only 5 KB. In principle, this should suffice perfectly, and, in the opinion, enough. With all of the above manufacturers somehow forgot about the clock function per se: Missing and alarm clock, a stopwatch, and other key for the clock function. Despite this, we can safely say that the Fossil Wrist PDA-PC - stylish device for gadget lovers and outdoor activities that can successfully replace the Pocket PC in the field. There is a third version of the hours ... Full-length wrist Palm. This model is considered to be the heir Fossil Wrist PDA, which is only a companion device.

Fossil Wrist PDA

Operating hours of PDAs running Palm OS 4.1 and is compatible with virtually any application written for that operating system. Inside a small corps settled processor Motorola DragonBall VZ 33 MHz, 2 MB RAM and 2 MB of ROM. The list of installed software includes standard applications Palm OS: Address Book, Date Book, Memo Pad, Calculator and To Do List. The device has a monochrome display.His resolution - 160x160 pixels, supports the display 16 shades of gray. In general, very similar to a simple Palm Zire - just a miniature. To synchronize with your desktop PC using a USB interface. Unit dimensions: 35 x 51 x 12.5 mm and weight - 160 g. And finally, we got to the most interesting part of our journey into the world of mysterious metamorphosis that led us to the most, in my opinion, the demand for today device that combines conventional wristwatch and cell phone. At last in Hanover in March 2003, CeBIT 2003, Samsung introduced a wristwatch with built-in GSM-phone. The device works in GSM 900/1800 networks and supports data transmission GRPS class 10 (up to 57.6 kbit / s). Its display is built on the newest technology OLED, has a resolution of 94 x 64 pixels, and displays 256 colors. Sound System - polyphonic, 40-voice. Supports voice dialing, Internet access protocol WAP 1.2 and wireless Bluetooth. Thin lithium-ion battery with capacity of 400 mAh lasts for half an hour of talk time or 80 hours of the device in standby mode. The dimensions of the phone (without strap) are 37.8 x 64 x 17.7 mm Weight with battery - 1980

Mobile phone watches from Samsung

Is believed to Samsung, their new product will be sold on the market. "Market research showed that consumers need to be ultra-light mobile devices, they could use in any place and at any time" - said vice-president of the San-Jin Park. Followed by Samsung, at the same exhibition CeBIT 2003, a similar device called Wristomo introduced leading Japanese mobile operator NTT DoCoMo. Folded Wrisotomo represents the usual hours, revealing that, you can get a miniature telephone: at one end of the bracelet is a microphone, and on the other - the speaker. Due to the fact that most of the buttons, including keys, a navigator, brought to the bracelet, the device has received a large screen (for its class) and comfortable control.

Mobile phone watches Wristomo from NTT DoCoMo

Unlike Samsung, operating in GSM 900/1800, Wristomo belongs to the standard PHS (Personal Handyphone System, based on TDMA-TDD), which is popular in Japan and Southeast Asia, but is not used in other regions. Internet access service via NTT mopera. Wristomo allows you to work with the sites of i-mode, to send and receive email (the message length to 6000 characters) and supports synchronization with Microsoft Outlook. Data transfer rate - up to 64 kbps. In factored form dimensions of the device are 171.5 x 40.4 x 18.5 mm. Weight with battery - 113 Corpus Wristomo waterproof. And as the latest development of the Chinese company China Electronics Corporation (CEC), which has launched a highly unusual mobile phone F88 works in the standard CDMA 1x.

Mobile phone watches on the CEC F88

Production of the device performs under contract South Korean Telson Electronics, and just planned to produce about 30.000 such unusual clock. A small number of the scheduled phone due to the very high price - 8,888 yuan, or $ 1070. This is likely to be the most expensive cell phone in China.

Keyboard F88

Phone is equipped with CSTN LCD display with 256 colors. Dimensions miracle hours are 38.3 x 76.7 x 17 cm, not including the antenna size, and in their functional list are: voice dialing, 4 minutes of audio recording, 16 polyphonic ring tones and, in fact, own hours. On the strap F88 is a miniature keyboard. Interestingly, the weight of the new items in all this is only 100 g. With built-in battery 600 mAh, watch phone is capable of operating up to 120 minutes of talk time and 100 hours in anticipation. To reduce the amount of damage the LCD screen is covered with special polymer composition, traditional watches.

F88 installed camera

However, the developers seemed a little unusual to release a hybrid mobile phone and watch: the latest fashion, they have equipped with a removable novelty camera with a matrix of 300,000 pixels and a 180-degree vertical design. It is curious that the speaker phone device is designed as a ring and connects with a wire. Thus, when talking to your ear to hold the hand that is not very convenient.

Earphone-ring on the wire

To reduce some discomfort by using an infrared headset, but with him will keep his hand in a certain position near the ear.

Infrared headphone

Finally announced the news flashed recently in online media: "In response to the product of Chinese designers and enthusiasts (nationality unknown, and it is not important) gave his version of hours with the phone (or vice versa)."

Response to Chinese developers;)

Conclusion

So, to sum up a little. This article, we traced the evolution of conventional watches in high tech devices that combine conventional at first glance, watch, pager, digital camera, mobile phone and PDA. It's safe to say that fantasy is no limit to the developers, and it pleases. At least for me personally. I am sure that soon there will be many such devices and, possibly, put still razrabotichiki their concepts to the stream. I, in turn, will follow the development of the industry and timely inform you about all the updates. If you notice any inaccuracies or typographical errors, inform the author about it. Also, if you have the desire to supplement this material, please send your addition or a link to the source, I am pleased to completion of this article. Thank Vibra.by site for the material! Sources, Materials:

The observer for pockets or Saga Casio Pocket Viewer PV-S450

To begin with, that we both love the product company Casio - even starting with an old, older than us, calculator Pocket LC-II (still alive!), Which we used to sneak a couple in the fifth grade in mathematics lessons. Well ... the fact he and technological progress! Waited. We got to explore industrial design PV-S450, but since one of us - the now famous "smoked" Palm m100, and the other - HP Jornada 720, and each of his "beast" values, then we would compare. The first thing that catches your eye - a solid screen size, which has, however, "palm" the resolution of 160x160 and the elegance of fine silver shell. And yet - the lack of Graffiti. Comfortable stylus, not a hint of IR. And the wheel (Sony, ay!) On the left side on top ... But let us not hurry. Casio, it seems, has positioned the average model in the line Pocket Viewer as the nearest competitor Palm m100, although the size it looks more like a Palm V. Like any respectable PDA, PV cradle is equipped to communicate with the "big" computer (via a COM port) and drive with appropriate software, called PC Sync (similar, in many Sync'ah we will soon get confused:). Since the Palm in this world - the trendsetter, the Casio necessarily have to go on the patterns: "Contacts" are very similar to the Address Book, "Notes" remind Memo Pad, "Recording pen" - Note Pad, and the "costs" - Expense, which however, thrown out of the m100. From "his" - spreadsheet, synchronizing with Excel for PDA is very powerful. It seems, then take into account the feelings of people who have to download it separately QuickSheet for "pilots" and lose it every sloppy replacing batteries, and then agonizing sync. There is a converter for currency effects, which are provided and Ruble (PV issued separately for Russia, but Russification ... sore - and then), and the latest fashions, the euro. Toys by default turned in our machine 3, and all deserve a separate description. In the Russian version is also installed arsenalovsky dictionary for a few tens of thousands of words in each direction (for business communication will suffice). Clock, calculator and calendar from a common menu available, but for them a special place called "Inst", in common parlance - "Pop-up funds." This section is accessible from anywhere, but not from the main menu. It is strange that used such a solution - possibly to avoid patent hassles with Palm Inc., Perhaps in an attempt to improve. In any case, despite the beautiful digital-analog clock, calendar, and quite a good standard calculator, a place chosen unsuccessfully. Highlighting seems to be one of the favorite destinations Casio. Illuminator system can sing praises, but here it has caused us to stream bewilderment. No, she lights above all praise, but that it turns off by itself after 15 seconds, just annoying, especially in the experimental dark when we are painfully searched stylus Light button and found it, after a couple of times off and on PDA (Button "OFF" is located directly above the "Light"). In addition, lights off at the time of synchronization, and included not want to end the conversation.A handheld - not hours ... The total absence of "graffiti" life very difficult, because we know from personal experience that on the subway or in the car, it exceeds the on-screen keyboard to get to the button that even at very weak shaking of the train highly unlikely. So if you want to record something quickly and clearly, there is only two options - wait until the system is designed Russified handwriting PocketViewerOS, or use the "write a feather." After Palm Note Pad, it caused us just the joy of children - notes made in this application, great read, even if written by a doctor's handwriting, it is possible to draw straight lines and squares, which is not enough (from our point of view) Palm OS. The only negative - in contrast to the Note Pad, screen does not scroll, which is not always convenient. Incidentally, among the advantages of PV must be attributed, and a surprisingly soft, accurate and convenient stylus - in any case, you can draw even a quality cartoon. Investigating the machine, we have three remembered the commandment, "read the manual first." But even the repeated reading of the descriptions do not help us understand the application, "expenses". Honestly, palm Expense much more pleasant in communication! Another financial tool - Currencies - offered hope. But here's the translation of different currencies we are slightly surprised by the results ... It turned out that the default rate of the ruble against the dollar, "hammered" at a ratio of 28.1 rubles per 1 USD, and cross-exchange rates refer to the beginning of 2000 ... To status change, you need to make artful manipulation click Menu Bar. We say that a change in the exchange option, apparently, is not considered very popular, so hidden away thoroughly. Came to rubles and it's time to talk about Russification. That's really what surprised so surprised! Casio all of its products for the Russian market from the perspective of linguistics tries to "lick" "to perfection. But Pocket Viewer ... Whether because of the fact that this free sample, or (God forbid!) And decided, but where the Russian language would be very useful (the same "cost"), his strange way a substitute for English. Reduction is sometimes laughable. Very inconvenient to change the layout - the main menu to call Menu Bar, choose there's Layouts and layout - between QWERTY, AZERTY (French) and the Russian Windows-like. True, in case you need to write a few letters in a different layout, there is a shortcut button "SMBL" (symbol), under which, in alphabetical order are the letters of all known Viewer'u layouts, but in comparison with the Palm is a solution of half-hearted. Experiment's sake, we have established English language - no problem, everything is much clearer than in the other cases in Russian. And finally, one of the biggest drawbacks Casio Pocket Viewer, in any case, today - not even a hint of connection to the Internet. However, this is partly compensated by the potential of cable to connect to another PV, and even with notebooks Casio "Advanced Series" SF, CSF, and NX. Very good for a manager whose employees use these devices to conduct business, or an employee service center (in the presence of special programs). Perhaps this deficiency will be corrected later. Two AAA batteries for long enough, and to replace them has a special switch on the rear of the PV, which is also the lock on the lid and switch batteries when replacing the memory on an internal power supply, preventing information loss. So - conclusion. To date, the Pocket Viewer - Organizer for those who are dealing with spreadsheets, including financial, statistical, many rides, but do not need to connect the handheld to the web. The relative scarcity of opportunities (in fact, they are limited to only pre-installed software again, so far) does not allow him now to fully compete with Palm. Let's hope that all the PV front.If the software bugs are relatively easy to fix, then the hardware - not a very good layout of buttons, especially OFF and Light, the absence of infrared port - much harder and it seems they will remain disabled in this series of handheld computers. Discussion of the article in the conference authors, translation:

Basil tries palm skin a cat

"Never neglect the garbage cans" - that's the wisdom that cat Basil understood from time immemorial. These containers brought him more information than a dozen informants from among the top managers of local companies. So it was at this time ... Basil morning climbed to the Internet in search of fresh news and programs for your brand new Palm Vx (looking into his cat for a long time, bought a month ago and now an enthusiastic neophyte amused favorite toy, until it topped the charts handy utility for the calculation of biorhythms cat ). The first thing he saw on the Web, has news about the development of a set of "software, literature and accessories to facilitate the Russian buyer acquaintance and work with the Pocket PC platform Palm OS". "Finally - he thought - someone guessed." Suspicion crept into his soul when he saw that in addition to other software bundled for $ 30 offers a package CyrHack - popular, and is absolutely free, crack Palm. Fluffy seeker gossip thought, but then read the title of "the new product, Mobility Research" company-developer: drive called "Russian Palm" ... Basil tensed, sensing an exhilarating scent of game - gave tidbits that some time ago (just exploring the containers with papers thrown in the back of a city near Moscow), he stumbled on scraps of correspondence with the mention of the same name but with different actors. "It is true that decent cats in dumpsters not climb, they prefer burning fireplace, rest and a glass of brandy - philosophizing at the time, Vaska, digging in the contents of the next tank - but, alas, interesting gossip while lying by the fire will not catch." And he bravely immersed himself in another capacity. As I understood a tireless seeker gossip, examining the surviving pieces (firm, use a shredder!), It was about trying to create the program "Russian Palm OS", in that the developer and request the highest resolution at Palm, Inc. "Can we know the opinion of Palm, Inc. The legality of using the name" Russian Palm OS "for our package? Can we count on the official permission to use this name?" "Hmm - thought then Cat, aware of the reverent attitude Palm, Inc. To own the brand - to the guys in Santa Clara that's just to share the word Palm, it should happen that something quite extraordinary ... For example, earthquake in the heart of Silicon Valley, or where shares drop Palm "rapid jack and hysteria Pocket PC ... Since neither one nor the other has not yet been observed in cat, as there is a very astute, in general, assumed that read at the next scrap of, but by professional habit to get out in no hurry. Otpihnuv empty bottle of whiskey and running both legs in a pile of cans and plastic cups, as a reward for patience, he fished out a new piece, which means (hereinafter translate Kota): "You have no right call their product "Russian Palm OS". Note that Palm, Inc. does not allow independent software developers the right to use the trademark PALM and its inclusion in the name of their software products. "Next illegible, only visible position:" Counsel Palm, Inc. on the use of trademarks (Palm's trademark attorney) ". Shred number three told the opinion of a Product Manager (Cote guessed that struck such insolence Management Palm long and vigorously argued about this mysterious Russian soul, which is not batting an eye raised her hand to the holy of holies - - trademark ")." We are in no way can allow you to use the words "Russian Palm" as the title of your product. This is misdirecting potential buyers who think that becoming a product created and manufactured by Palm. We are talking about your product, and you have to think for him the original name. "" I wonder - he asked himself Kitten, again looking at pieces of correspondence and making sure that nothing interesting in that he once missed - a software package which is say, as far as I know, has not appeared. Interestingly, knows whether Palm, Inc. a new "Russian Palm"? ". the question, he continued to delve into the news." ... Microsoft changed the conditions of technical support. ""Well, well - thought Basil - straight-away, at the request of the working people ..." The real reason for change, he realized even at a reception on the occasion of this event, sponsored by the Russian representative office of the corporation. Looking for solid and confident managers, Cote thinking about problems that are inevitable for any representation. Actually, they are usually two - sales and accounting. At first he thought that the point here is simple savings, no support, no engineers, but when I heard that employees remain in their jobs and begin filling the Russian version of the database Microsoft Knowledge Base, Cote realized that the original idea of ​​"insurance for five fracture "was born quite different: apparently, someone in the company Microsoft bothered to waste money on responses to customers, much less that the report to the Redmond thousands of visitors to Web-site where both simpler than the" customers who are satisfied with the technical support "... But this stuff - a lot more interesting will be when Microsoft will have to sell new versions of Windows and Office, equipped with a system of copy protection. It is assumed that each customer after installation "activate" your copy. Cat listening to the plans and wondering - who makes fun of someone? In his mind there were snow-covered expanse of threes and half-drunk driver, racing in the Microsoft registration forms with applications to activate ... "Um - Basil blinked nervously licked his lips - and that this will be in this new Office, which for him have so suffer? " Article caused quite a lot of noise, the Company MakTsentr promised shortly to give their comments. Sources, Materials:

Cybiko - a toy or a step in the future?

Remember how they sing Alica and Bananan at the eighteenth minute, "Assa" song BG "I'm going to do you? "What's your number?" - With the inimitable kiberintonatsiey asks Bugaev, nicknamed "Africa", and the most - for my taste - a touching Russian actress of the last century Tatiana Drubich answers too cybernetically-neutral and cybernetic-instantly: "Six." "What is your sex?" - "Woman" ... I believe that no BG or Solovyov, who shot "Assou, personal or bad, no assessment at all this kibernetichnostyu not want to say - just showed a rave style. In those days, of course, charming. Equally, as the most - also for my liking - a charming (and quite successful), the representative of the Russian hi-tech-business, David Yang, thinking Cybiko, too, probably, is not primarily about computers (cyber) component was thinking - but a coterie and style. Therefore, without taking in mind all those tedious arguments about the brain drain, simply set up in Moscow, Spartakovskaya area firm for two hundred people, who must develop software and devices (after the first serving today, the version already comes second, but the features and cut out of foam and a third, and it seems that the fourth), he with two colleagues went to the States, there founded the firm, scored two dozen American managers, and an order for the glands consistent manner posted on Taiwan. And Cybiko go! Maybe still not as fast as wanted David, but, first, Down and Out problem - a beginning, and second, not so rich in the firm of David to buy virtually all the central American newspapers - and their pages with articles about the Cybiko is covered entirely not a small area of ​​the wall in the office on Spartakovskaya, and AOL, no matter how rich the monster was, in the empty case will invest the money is unlikely. Tak.Omolazhivaem hero "Africa for five years, the heroine Drubich - ten, hand over to them by Cybiko and run the disco. (Optional: at the disco, at the entrance, instead of number plates - each awarded by Cybiko [Maxim Otstavnova idea, expressed in private correspondence].) Scored in every machine data about themselves (their view of themselves, although the hair color or growth is better to give an objective : here you are not Internet-chat, all - on the patch) and (I quote Otstavnova) "10 qualities of the girl of his dreams." The girl (or a few girls) appears, Cybiko squeaks and (or) to vibrate, like your soul - and you have your sending her billet doux. It is your responsibility. Or not responding. If started, but - at the end of disco - I had to get out of range of the interaction of two Cybiko (hundred or so meters) - go to it at its Cybiko (with a unique number that turn with the help of dogs and cybiko.com supplements to the standard e-mail-address) mail from his, perhaps she'll answer ... - What's your number?

By the scruff let in the sun

PC Week in the company MakTsentr "read completely, from cover to cover. Therefore, when he came sixth number, the last page immediately discovered was an article "Basil tries skin" palm "cat." Author's name is not listed, call it for clarity Cat. If we reject kotyachi philosophizing, the article will be three simple and clear thought. First - the project "Russian Palm", recently launched by "MakTsentr" suspicious, because the package is sold for money, although includes some free programs. The second - the very name of the package is doubtful, because someone came up with it before, but failed to get permission Palm, Inc. to use it. The third idea is not so transparent, in my opinion, this is some sort of attack on the Moscow office of Microsoft. The last point we will not comment with your hands, and the first two I would like to discuss. So, what is "Russian Palm"? A set of software, literature and accessories to facilitate Russian buyer acquaintance and work with the Pocket PC platform Palm OS. In "The Russian Palm" includes the following program (version 1.02)

Autopilot	A. Belankov
Billiards (demo)	Megasoft 2000
BDikti (demo)	Bakes
Kodar	A. Kuznetsov
CyrHack	Tashpulatov
Days	A. Belankov
FastCPU (demo)	Megasoft 2000
Beehive	A. Kuznetsov
LauncherLight (demo)	Megasoft 2000
Megalauncher (demo)	Megasoft 2000
PaPiRus	Fiztekh-Soft
RusGraf	SDG
RuSMS	C. Oskin
Silkyboard	SoftAVA
Tolmach	Fiztekh-Soft

Also,

• On-Screen Keyboard Silkyboard, designed specifically for the project "Russian Palm". With Silkyboard rapidly grown to Palm'e texts can both beginners and experienced users;
• book "Palm OS for the user" in Russian;
• film to protect the screen from scratches;
• Sticker-Help for Russian graffiti stroke.

What this list has caused the cat allergy? A program CyrHack? Then hasten to assure all the cats that we have official permission from all rights holders to place their products on the disk. Some of these products - PaPiRus, Silkyboard - pay the rest - free of charge. Nothing wrong with that. The package comes in a very impressive volume, since all the dealers' MakTsentr "complement them with your device. A small portion goes to the free market. The existence of this package, no doubt, are interested not only users, but our Russian developers. We invite all developers who write under the Palm, to cooperate. Placement program at our drive - the shortest path to the user. The second claim concerns the Cat project name. In our view, it is very good. And as sighs, "we came up with this before," we can sympathize with - the slogan "Russian Palm" was first used in Russia to publicly name of our company. Please accept condolences. Concern for the rights of the Cat Palm, Inc. the name of the Palm course, and we share. This company is itself a while ago, faced with a lawsuit from French firm Pilot on the use of the same name. Since then, all pilots were called Palm. So anxious attitude Palm, Inc. to its trademark as well known, especially in cases where the illegal use may result in damage to the company or misinformation to customers. A draft of the "Russian Palm" The situation is quite different. In the photo you can see the delegation Palm Germany, together with staff MakTsentr after fruitful negotiations. On the table lies raspotroshenny package "Russian Palm". Everybody is happy and smiling. Without false modesty, but only to reassure the patient kotyachyu conscience can say that the European guidance Palm, Inc.highly appreciated our efforts to localize the product, whose concentration and was a project "Russian Palm". So most likely none of Palm, Inc. will not hesitate to contact us with a lawsuit. To do this, there are other reasons that will interest fans of legal technicalities. Palm trademark was registered in Russia. However, it is not made by Palm, Inc., A certain individual, which is called Dr. Karin Schutz (Dr. Karin Schuttze), back in 1992, when even the "Newton" (device) was not. Register held by the section relating to medical devices, biochemical, laboratory, etc., supplies, and maintenance of such equipment. That is in Russia now claims for unauthorized use of the word Palm can produce only the registered owner of the brand - Dr. Schutz. We have filed a request for registration of the mark "Russian Palm" under the heading "Software for computers." However, the application is likely to be rejected for the following reason. Article 6 of the Law "On Trademarks, Service Marks and Appellations of Origin, states:" shall not be registered trade marks consisting only of symbols that are generally adopted symbols and terms. " A word of Palm in the computer world is that of "common term" and is, not to mention the word "Russian." This is easily seen, for example, by opening the relevant articles of the popular vocabulary Lingua 6.5 ". Thus, we are ready to accept claims from the owner of brands Palm, where they suddenly appear, but this is unlikely, because his interests are not infringed. Hello cats! Discussion of the article in the conference authors, translation:

Psion: through the thorns to the stars

Why Psion (EPOC)? After all, this platform in Russia is traditionally not as common as, for example, Palm, although in Europe, for example, the situation is reversed. But things tend to change, but for the sphere of high technologies, this assertion is especially important. EPOC is rapidly gaining popularity in the telecommunications sector due to its compact size, low system resources, easy adaptation to any type of device and reliability - not for nothing that this operating system drew attention to the major manufacturers of mobile communication equipment. PDA Psion has long been known as a reliable, extremely easy to use and economical device, they are always different from the refined design. Throughout the world, users are paying more attention to these devices - not without reason Psion opens new regional offices in different countries. Even in the U.S., where traditionally the stronghold of Palm, there is a significant increase in demand for Psion. A backlog of Palm in Russia can be explained rather frankly weak promotion of the brand PDAs on the market. I am sure this article will help readers learn more about the interesting world of Psion, and possibly even cause a desire to join him. If this happens, then I'm sure you're unlikely to regret about it, believe my experience. One day, opting for the platform, would not want to use something else. The purpose of this article - do not just give an overview of the model number of Psion, but rather an attempt to make some "inside look" at the possibilities offered by handheld computers (hereafter - CCP) from the pioneer of this trend - the British company Psion PLC. We begin with a brief excursion into history. Psion PLC originally conceived creator - David Potter (David Potter) - as a company, a software developer. And indeed, his first steps (starting with the base year - 1980) Psion made in this direction - was developing computer games for the once popular in our country, Sinclair ZX81 (more known as Spectrum), and quite successfully. Having made a name for himself in the computer world and the initial capital of Skopje, the company began to enter other markets, then virtually unknown. It is necessary to pay tribute to the sagacity Potter - he could see then what was obviously not for everybody but still features the then the electronics industry and technology were not allowed to talk about too much of miniaturization. However, many electronics manufacturers, for example, Sharp, have already started production of programmable calculators and even a sort of microcomputers with built-in BASIC interpreters. Yet the first "real" PDA is launched in 1982, Psion Organizer. From the standpoint of modern man, accustomed to the wonders of technology, this device was extremely primitive: a one-line LCD screen, 2KB of RAM, a processor with a clock frequency of approximately 1 MHz. However, the Organizer has been an important feature: it was not just a calculator, and in some measure a personal information device - it was built simple notebook and a clock. The device also had the opportunity to expand: two slots for special cartridges with additional memory, or even RS-232 port! The device was equipped with 37-key alphanumeric keyboard, there was strong body and a sliding cover that protects the keyboard. Dimensions and weight of the device at that time were also at the level ": 142h78h29, 3 mm, 225 g. At the cartridges supplied with different utilities, including programs for financial and scientific calculations. The device was popular, for it was a large number of application software. This is also one of the important features of the Organizer: for him it was possible to create your own software, which attracted a large number of developers. In 1984, a model Organizer II, incidentally, is still producing (albeit under the order). Produced modifications to the increased RAM, specialized versions to work as shop terminals, etc. The device is widely used as a data collection terminals in trade and industry (the good, extremely durable and reliable design that helped). Organizer II is still used by many users precisely because of its legendary strength. It is the use of these devices in the industry gave impetus to the emergence of industrial PDAs. In 1984 he was released on a specialized industrial computer HC. He had a 80C86 processor with a clock speed of 3.84 MHz, 256KB ROM, the screen is 160x80 pixels with backlight. Modifications differ mainly in RAM (128Kb in the base model). Used for expansion slots for drives SSD (Solid State Disk, of solid discs) - "branded wheels" Psion. Also in the HC the prototype operating system, in what has become a sort of bestseller - SIBO (Sixteen-Bit Organizer). However, instead of a graphical interface used DOS-like command line. The file system is compatible with DOS, the ROM has been included language interpreter OPL (Organizer Programming Language), which subsequently created a great piece of software for this platform. Also produces a large number of accessories - docks, special portable printers, scanners, etc. Subsequently, the concept of HC has found a new incarnation of modern industrial terminals WorkAbout. But Psion did not think limited handheld devices - and as it turned out, in vain. Somewhere in the early 90's the company attempted to enter the market such as notebook computers (or, as they said, laptops). Published a series of MC: MC200/400/600/WORD. Despite the fact that for the time these devices were mounted technology and design idea (touch pad, graphical user interface, great battery life), a series of MC was the biggest failure Psion - affected unnecessarily overpriced. But life goes on. Not everyone needs industrial terminals. And Psion draws attention to the needs of ordinary people. In 1991 he produced the first model of the "third" series, subsequently became a bestseller: Series 3 'Classic'. This model was released in 1991 and for several years has defined the look and functionality of computers Psion. The original folding case design, 128 or 256 KB of memory, big enough and comfortable keyboard, a fully graphical user interface (though only controlled from the keyboard), multi-tasking. Was used 80C86-compatible processor NEC V30H with frequency 3.84 MHz. In the ROM was "stitched" nice set of applications - diary, word processor, spreadsheet, simple single-table database, a programming language OPL, reference base in the cities of the world and the world clock, calculator, etc. Software quality of the whole "third series was just incredible - the system was literally licked to a shine. For all the time its existence was not detected in any substantive errors. The operating system used in these PDA, called SIBO (SIxteen Bit Organizer - 16-bit organizer).Good development tools and familiar to most programmers architecture 80h86 did their job - the number of programs for these devices has been growing like a snowball). In 1993 he released Model Series 3a. From its predecessor, features a large screen size (480h160 points), increased memory (from 256 to 2 Mb in the latest versions), double (7,68 MHz) processor, built-in spell checker and even a card game of "patience." Also been set up only to date hardware Russified model - Series 3aR. It was possible to expand the memory by removable disk SSD. There was a serial port, however, unusual. To connect to a desktop PC requires a special cable. The branch also developed industrial terminals. Its final incarnation was WorkAbout - a real workhorse, extremely reliable and robust computer. Due to the special extensions (bar-code scanners, radio modems, etc.) adapts to any production needs, such as inventory control, etc. In Russia, the terminal WorkAbout even "armed with" a unit of the traffic police. Specifically for these devices has been created among the accelerated development of applications - OVAL (Object-based Visual Application Language), is compatible with Visual Basic. In 1996 he released Model Series 3c. Speed ​​serial port (now a "normal" RS-232) was increased from 19200 to 57600, was attended by an infrared port (but again non-standard) lighting. Memory size 1 or 2 MB. In the same 1996 Psion went to another segment of the market handheld devices and presented Siena - a sort of "lite" version of the Series 3 for those who need no PDA, but rather a powerful organizer. The screen has been reduced by half, the size and weight of the device have also been considerably reduced - it can be easily put in your shirt pocket. Suite of applications has not changed. Unfortunately, the inherent Psion innovative approach to design housing for all their devices (and each model features some kind of "pearl" in the design) played a better role: Siena was not too strong - especially frequent were broken hinge housing. And the price was not, alas, a little (unfortunately, this kind of "fad" Psion - the price of their devices are kept high, but most likely due to the fact that primary production is placed in England, where the cost of its very large). A year later (in 1997), the final accord, "the third series was released model Series 3mx - with a clock speed of 27,684 MHz and a serial port speed 115200. It turned out that the release of this model coincided with the transition Psion to an entirely new architecture and with the release of the first model in the series - Series 5, Series 3mx why sales were low. At this "Third Series" has ceased development and is currently almost no support Psion. However, these PDAs created a huge number of applications of different properties (alas, most of them do not Russified).But stop our historical digression for a moment and try to understand what determined the success of SIBO (during the existence of a "third series has sold several million units). First, as noted earlier, this is extremely attractive design - any device from Psion nice pick up. Secondly, it is perfectly designed and implemented an operating system, in which all left to chance. Third, a great set of applications on almost all occasions:

• Word text editor with features of text formatting (fonts, spacing, spelling, etc.);
• Spreadsheet Sheet - a fully featured table, not much inferior to their desktop counterparts (though not multipage);
• simple single-table database Data;
• amazing diary Agenda - still considered the best among all similar programs;
• alarm clock;
• base, "World Time" World - information about the large number of countries and cities in the world with telephone codes, offset to UTC, etc.;
• programming language OPL - a powerful BASIC-like language, which produced most of the applications for SIBO;
• powerful calculator Calc;
• Jotter pad for taking notes;
• digital audio recording software Record.

Add to this the ability to install any application (on the internal drive or memory card), a good selection of accessories - modems, memory cards, etc. - And we get a very convenient and powerful tool for working away from your PC. Great battery life (here Psion is still an absolute record-holder) can not worry about finding outlets for a very long time. Embedded software enables you to work with documents, and the results of these works can then pass on the PC, transforming the passing of a familiar "desktop" format, for example, Microsoft Office. And the exceptional vitality of the CPC made it possible to use them in any situation without fear for the safety of data and the device itself. But as time passed, there were new technologies, and it became clear that the platform of SIBO has reached the highest point in its development - the possibilities of the hardware platform 80h86 been exhausted, and 16-bit architecture imposed their own restrictions, such as the maximum volume of the document. The question arose about the transition to 32-bit applications, and it was clear that the new system will have to create from scratch. As the hardware platform has been selected ARM, today the best ratio of performance / power consumption. Developing a new operating system (known as EPOC, which in English sounds like "epoch") was engaged in division Psion Software. In 1997 he created the first product based on EPOC - Psion Series 5. It was a real revolution in the world of PDAs. Convenient and relatively large keyboard, good screen 640x240 pixels, 32-bit ARM processor 7100, 4/8Mb memory slot for Compact-flash, which became by the time the industry standard, IRDA-compliant infrared port, serial port RS-232 touchscreen screen and the new OS with an excellent set of firmware, the original design with the "moving out" keyboard - all contributed to the fact that demand for the Series 5 was very high during 1997-1998. True, very quickly became clear that the design (or rather type) devices are very fragile (most often broke the loop connecting the halves of the device), is pleasant to the touch rubber coating has a strong tendency peel, giving the device obsharpanny view, the screen is quite easy to break, and stylus ( Pen-Pointer) has a habit of getting stuck because of the distortions case. Subsequently, the situation has improved - the body became stronger, the coating does not peel so much. Still, "the first attempt" was a bit lumpy. Nevertheless, the new system had good success. And thanks to the new OS from the start conceived as easily portable and versatile system for personal information devices of various types, it has become seriously interested luminaries telecommunications market - Nokia, Ericsson.All this has led to what is in the same 1997-based Psion Software has created a new public company Symbian - the brainchild of Psion, Nokia, Ericsson and Motorola, whose main objective was the development and licensing EPOC manufacturers of telecommunications equipment. Later Symbian joined Matsushita (better known under the brand name Panasonic), IBM, Sybase. Plans for Symbian far-reaching, but rest on your laurels is early - the competitors (in particular the notorious Microsoft) are not asleep. The market of mobile technology is so appealing and promises such profits, that fight for this tidbit turned serious. In addition to Psion, EPOC-based devices also announced Ericsson and Motorola. In particular, this year, Ericsson has launched R380s - a hybrid cell phone and organizer, a so-called smartphone. The device can operate as an ordinary cell phone and a PDA - with its help, for example, can read email, browse WAP-page, etc. But back to the Psion. After the release of Series 5 has come a standstill. While major competitors Psion released more and more new models, Psion itself in no hurry to please us with new products. And only after two (!), In 1999, finally began to appear the rumors about the new model. And here in the summer of 1999, the public was presented model Series 5mx. Despite the fact that superficially it differed only in color shell filling has undergone very significant changes. Series 5mx equipped ARM710T processor with a clock frequency of 36.864 MHz (twice more than the Series 5), significantly improved screen, 16MB of memory and a new version of the EPOC (Release 5). The last item is perhaps the most important novelty: for elapsed since the previous version (EPOC Release 3), the system has undergone substantial revision. Highly optimized code that is added (and integrated into the operating system) tools to work with e-mail, faxes, cell phones, support for WAP, appeared a full Web-browser and a virtual Java-machine - in other words, the system has reached a qualitatively new level. Embedded applications have also undergone some changes, for ease of synchronization with desktop PC, a special base Contacts. Performance of the new system also significantly improved (compared with the previous version is 2-4 times only by optimizing the code). In combination with a faster processor overall performance CCP increased by 3-5 times. For the German market was released model Psion 5mxPRO, in which there is no ROM, and the operating system is loaded into memory cards Compact-flash, which allows to upgrade the system. In the same year Ericsson has released a MC-218, is essentially a clone of the Series 5mx with a different color casing and slightly augmented set of applications - there was a special application for adjustment of cell phones, software for creating and sending e-cards and WAP-browser. The kit also supplied infrared modem for cell phones Ericsson. Unfortunately, Ericsson is not very actively promoting this product, so its sales were not as great as in Series 5mx. The new model was a huge success. In the same 1999 Psion introduced two new items: REVO - tiny and very nice computer for speed equivalent to the Series 5mx, but with less memory (8MB) and no expansion slots. Connecting to a PC - via a docking station rather than through a special cable, like the Series 5.Set of applications the same, plus there were special application to work with cell phones. In 2000, released an updated version of REVO Plus with 16MB memory. Series 7 - the computer can not be called a pocket, but rather a sub-notebook. Color screen 640x480 pixels, 133-MHz processor StrongARM, 16MB memory (expandable to 32MB), slots Compact-flash and PC-Card (PCMCIA). Was also released production version - netBook, feature twice the amount of memory, a faster 190-MHz processor and a lack of memory (as in Series 5mxPRO), and 4Mbit / s infrared port. What we offer Psion computers today? As usual, this full set of modern office applications:

• powerful text editor Word with great possibilities of text formatting, styles, templates, spell checker, the ability to insert pictures, tables and other objects;
• Spreadsheet Sheet, however, unfortunately, still not Multipage;
• program digital recording Record (Series 5/5mx can also be used as a voice recorder, without revealing - for the housing there is a special button);
• graphics editor Sketch, roughly similar in features Microsoft Paint - there is always the possibility of something quickly to sketch or write (you can, for example, to insert your signature in a document Word);
• diary Agenda - the best for today; Agenda will not give sleep in the morning, remind you of birthdays girlfriend or wedding day, let you know what kind of things planned for today, will help to distribute the time - in general, indispensable thing for those who do not much trust their own memory ;
• World Clock Time - information on major cities and countries around the world, time zones, the distance between cities, sunsets and sunrises, the location of settlements and much more;
• Notepad Jotter - take notes as in a regular paper notebook, with the ability to quickly search and editing;
• Database Data - to store a wealth of information. Up to 256 fields of any type (text / number / date, etc.), the ability to insert graphics into text fields, any field names. As an option - Address Book;
• Terminal Comms - a simple terminal program that supports the Terminal ANSI, VT-42 and VT-100 (for example, for remote administration), exchange files with other computers on the old X-modem protocols and Y-modem;
• powerful calculator Calc;
• Email Client Email - access to email, SMS and fax;
• Base Contacts - to store information about all the friends and acquaintances with the ability to exchange data with popular desktop applications like Microsoft Outlook;
• programming language OPL, although not as powerful as in SIBO, but enough to write simple programs. Translator and editor built into the PDA, so application development can be carried out on the device itself;

PDA Psion, being fully self-contained devices that perfectly communicate with the outside world by connecting to a desktop PC via a serial or infrared port for information backup, synchronize with desktop applications, organizational, exchanging documents with automatic data conversion on the fly. " For me personally, Psion has long been an indispensable and reliable helper, always helping out in difficult times, when an urgent need to find a phone a friend, read your e-mail away from your desktop computer, do not miss an important event or meeting, and even sort out the city - a beautiful card company PalmGIS Kiberso not only help to find the street or even a house, but also tells you how to get to the right place, show what metro station is nearby, etc. Can hardly imagine how I could do without all this - the amount of paper that would carry with them, it is difficult to imagine. Discussion of the article in the conference Sources, Materials: