Russian hill Casio BE-300

Among the portable computer has its own favorites and there are outsiders, have brilliant brain and is impassable, stupid, have a luxurious and handsome men are modest hardworking. Pocket PC Casio BE-300, I would attribute to the category of pets. Like anything special, the modest performance, the modest capabilities. But - in looks, intelligent design, quality of performance. And finally, the price! "Beshka" - the most affordable family computer Windows CE, if you do not take into account outdated, stale machine, koi are lying on the shelves of some stores for years. For only two hundred and fifty (value in Russia ranges from 235 to 275 dollars in America - $ 199) receive all the charm of a pocket machines with the operating system from Microsoft - color, sound, access to software that is difficult to compare with the utility for PCs Palm, as it is difficult to compare the bike with the car. (Although the rides and then, etc.). Low price BE-300 stimulates demand. Today, this computer is knocked out champions in sales, despite some design constraints that affect the quality of consumer machines. Among these restrictions (we will not call them flaws, because on closer examination they turn out to be virtues) color screen on the passive matrix, the MIPS processor family with a clock frequency of 166 MHz, the lack of system dynamics (music you can listen through the plug stereotelefony, but in other cases will have to accept Avian voice buzzer), a small operating system Windows CE 3.0 RAM - only 16 megabytes. But on the other hand passive matrix is durable, economical (not so much battery power as active matrix) and does not spoil the image, if not to mess with video playback, where the screen BE-300 markedly retarding. CPU speed enough for the eyes. Sonic possibilities when you connect headphones (How else to listen to music on the small machine) does not yield capabilities of the most expensive Pocket PC. But the most striking advantage of the BE-300, which is difficult to overestimate, is a built-in slot, CompactFlash Type II. Add memory to this machine easier than ever (and cheaper than cheap), because the CF card format, one of the most affordable, ubiquitous (there are no difficulties with the acquisition), and universal in their application (via kopeck adapter slot PCMCIA card into a removable hard drive for notebook and without any kind adapter - in storage for a digital camera, if he is fit to work precisely with the cards CF). As someone, but I solid and quite compact CompactFlash cards like more than a tiny MultiMediaCard, or SmartMedia. Next, perhaps, only Memory Stick from Sony ... But a separate conversation about cards ... Initially there were difficulties with the software. BE-300 is endowed with only a truncated version of Windows CE, so the program has to fit specifically. However, today the question of "exhausted" - on the Internet you can find everything from the serious business applications, to bright toys. It would be the desire and patience. And would the money because the most interesting programs have the status of the business - for a family of computers Windows CE (Handheld PC, Pocket PC, Pocket PC 2002) is an established practice. All of the above - and low cost, and balanced performance, and good design - led to the popularity of the Casio BE-300 is growing by leaps and bounds. Indeed, a great machine ... Problems only with Russification. Does not understand "Beshka" in Russian. As they say, or "Be" or "metal". Asian arrogant little thing.

The first crack

No, the main difficulties are over. First Russifiers out long ago, are widely used and effective work, more or less suitable. More precisely, since - some more useful than others, because Russifiers not so much, and quality - one, two and obchelsya. For seventy days to communicate with BE-300 I've tried everything that helps your computer to cope with our great and mighty.As a result, stopped at a native Russifier from MakTsentr RussKey BE version 1.0b, which the machine was equipped with originally. Opportunities in the program, distributed through, by the way, for money, not so much: Russian on-screen keyboard and work with Russian encoding programs. But it's something. You can keep records in a regular Notepad `e, we can make a name in Russian letters in the address book. Plus, the absolute majority of English-speaking programs, which can be anything to write or make - crack almost completely eliminates the problem of "washing your do not understand" in any applications ... Except for one of the most important - the browser Internet. Even with language ability fasten goggles (small screen, then "Beshka" a little) and see copied in memory of the CPC web-pages has remained a pipe dream ... From the visible (at least - I) deficiencies may be noted foci localization during the installation of patches (patch `s) to the system (they conflict with RussKey BE, which is prescribed in the same directory Patch) and a considerable quantity on-screen keyboard. That is, Russian keyboard is exactly the same space as the Latin and staff - about 40-45% of the screen. Despite the pleasant kind of keys and bukovok on them, it is "not good". I mean - was not good, since the first version of the localization is history ...

Double second

Whatever RussKey, but it allowed some "Russify" interface, BE-300. I say this with a grain of self-irony, since it does not Russification, but sheath SQ and Russian captions Tabs programs on the desktop ... But the eye something nice! Russian we humans or not? Speaking of shells. Native interface Casio BE-300 design refinements do not differ. The manufacturer positions its product as a modest on a handheld computer for the corporate market. Or let's say: afraid of his own courage, a manufacturer of machine positioned as a portable recorder and means of access to stored information from a large computer, because not much faith in the prospects' Beshka. Okay - miscalculated ... But the interface was made Spartan stressed that the personal (the most personal of personal) machine totally unacceptable thing ... One of the first distinguished Japanese programmer (entuzist loner?) Tatsuya Sakamoto. His program of SQ in the current English version 4.10 (although the Japanese already have a version 4.20) still remains the most popular shell for the BE-300. Another popular shell - KCmenu II (set in the shell for the desktop BE-300 and software for the desktop, allowing you to create and install the PDA additional themes desktop) - it's nice to look at, but resource-intensive (it takes a lot of memory) and does not allow you to rename labels. Many commercial tools or slightly embellishes regular interface BE-300, or reshapes his appearance. But the SQ is as attractive of all - including those due to its status as freeware. On the famous EpodXP already written a lot. This is an alternative operating system for the BE-300, for which there are (I do not know - in the plural or singular) your Russifiers. I like this EpodXP seemed cumbersome and awkward. Tried it and was relieved demolished ... But this in no way is not a sentence! This - personal opinion. Very good that someone is working on their versions of operating systems, games and programs for the Casio BE-300. Overtake MakTsentr programmers, I, as a user, just say thank you. The money will pay if it is for that ... The next version of localization of MakTsentr RussKey version 1.11b from the first version differs only in the size of the onscreen keyboard (and perhaps some small things that I have not noticed, because, I confess, they are not particularly sought out).When you call a Russian keyboard remains free two-thirds of the screen - and it is convenient to write, and re-written. At the same time the value of soft keys is enough to not miss when choosing their pen. A picture bukovok on the keys is even prettier than the first version. In short, I liked the version 1.11. I so would have enjoyed it, and accustomed to multilingualism BE-300, and did not really rasprobovali charms browser Internet ... If not the most up to date version of localization, which has turned my "Beshka in fully Russified PDA.

Yes or no Yes - that is the question

The process of exciting and impressions are fresh ... So I decided to describe this adventure in detail. I will be happy, and you hope it is interesting. You know, I was so accustomed to its BE-300, both become deeply familiar with her, that inserting the CD into your laptop CD-ROM with language RussKey 2.0b even crossed. I wish I'd have gone atheist, did not do it ... Would be better off demolished oldest first crack. The instructions of the installation program of the new localization of this is written clearly and distinctly ... But the Chukchi is not a reader, Chukchi - a writer ... In short, did not happen. It did not leave a damn thing. The picture at startup CD drew a beautiful and crack, as they say, "did not get up." From this simple rule, such bustler like me - do not hurry. Okay, to restore the system using the previously saved backup copy (you can with the "native" CD from Casio, which comes bundled with your computer). Uninstall the old crack. Again inserted into the CD-ROM from MakTsentr ... Krrrrasota! In appeared on the laptop screen menu, a whole bunch of sweet, tasty, very nice program. Namely - crack Lite (with a low content of nicotine? "Oh, no, that's another story), complete with a translation interface crack, uninstaller, allowing the interface to return the original form. Then - with sync-to-date PC Connect (English) version 1.00.04. Calculator - in English, of course (there is nothing to Russify). And - went we go! Calendar Russian and English (version 1.00.29), Contacts Russian and English (version 1.00.28), File Manager Russian and English (version 1.00.31), Internet browser English and Russian (version 1.00.42), email client, Mail Russian and English (version 1.00.28), video player Movie Player Russian and English (version 1.00.22), the player audio files Music Player (version 1.00.39). Enough? No, not enough. Ibid - Notes text editor is also Russian and English (version 1.00.24), graphics "smotrelka" Photo Viewer in Russian and English (version 1.00.30), a universal viewer of files of different formats, Quick View Plus English and Russian (version 6.1), Scheduler Tasks and Russian, as you might guess, English (version 1.00.24). The version number of Russian and English versions of each program are the same ... Completely forgot ... The first step before installing the installation program prompts you to select the type of handheld computer (of course - Casio BE-300) and operating system version (two versions). Check the version of the operating system is very simple - click the pen on the menu Edit, located in the upper left corner of the screen PDA, and the menu select Version. Rewrite a paper on the first two lines - the version number of the system and its build. You may continue ... After activation, crack and restart the CPC paste machine in the "crib" and continue the installation by selecting Softonic RussKey BE 2.0b (interface translation). " While this case turns, for a moment digress to talk about programs synchronize the PDA and a large computer (in my case - laptop) ... To establish full crack, need to first install it "lite" version. No problems - if the crack was bought legally, and you have a registration card with a code of Russification, which is a combination of letters and numbers. Enter the code should be through standard software keyboard BE-300 (it appears if you click the pen on the keyboard icon in the taskbar). Register does not matter - the letters will still be capitalized. But we should not forget the dash between the groups. After activation, crack and restart the CPC paste machine in the "crib" and continue the installation by selecting Softonic RussKey BE 2.0b (interface translation). " While this case turns, for a moment digress to talk about programs synchronize the PDA and a large computer (in my case - laptop) ... All users of handheld machines have a choice of synchronization software. For example, the "Palmer" - regular Palm Desktop together with HotSync Manager or TrueSync Desktop (version for Palm). With the Casio BE-300 uses regular PC Connect for Cassiopeia or ActiveSync version 3.5 with a special utility that is installed on the BE-300. Perhaps I am a reactionary. Perhaps I am boring and even incurious man. Maybe I can not understand beauty of spectacular "blyamkalok and luminous dots ... But I do not like ActiveSync. I do not like the vagaries of the program. There are practical foundation ... I once had to "Beshka" crashed the system. Crumble like autumn leaves. White screen, my own mother ... And I took for the restoration of (thanks, was a backup system on your hard drive the computer). Active but also, you see, Sync! Reloads pocket typewriter and way and that way - there is no synchronization. (And no, as is installed on the BE-300 modules synchronize with ActiveSync "crashed" with the system). A machine, meanwhile, offers a recovery - from the card (since I always keep a backup system for CompactFlash) or directly from a large computer. And there is no synchronization. And the card is empty ... I was upset. Then I thought (this is sometimes peculiar, even to me). Took out the factory drive. Demolished ActiveSync. Installed the PC Connect. And forget about the problem as a bad dream. I know someone will say, they say, you have the wrong hands ... And I think they have me ordinary. I mean - the typical chaynikovskie hands who can not and perhaps should not be able delve into the settings to elementary install on a pocket typewriter desired program, written in memory of PDA address book or any other information. Anyway, PC Connect me sad. Watches for the "Beshka" forget to transfer to summer time - mark the correct option in the settings. With each complete reinstallation (eksperimentator!) system option is not included (if not restored from a backup, but with the factory CD-ROM) ... I live an hour later. And now - no. Now the clock on the BE-300 from and to Russian. And the option "Summer. Time" is ticked. And the menus for all major programs - are Russian. And the installation. And system messages. No, system messages, not all Russian. While in Russifier reigns a sort of freemen - each application speaks the language that he most likable. Here are the buttons on the system tray asking fluent Russian - "Yes" or "No"? Oh, dear ...

How it will be in Russian?

Immediately say - elegant. Excellent. Just super.Translation of the main applications on the Russian language does not add functionality to them, but the perception changes significantly. Non-English language users do not have to strain, digging in the pitiful remnants of the school (college) knowledge. All these Cut, Paste ... Paste - in the sense of pasta? Darkness ... Important psychological moment - Russified computer becomes closer and clearer. It becomes quite tame his, home. With him want to mess around, delving into the details. He no longer dismisses vulgar "File error", and affectionately says - "Well, what have you done, you fool" ... Well, almost. Yet the most remarkable in the new Russifier - the possibility of quick-change character through an icon on the taskbar. To enable this option, you must enter the "Options" and click the pen on the tab "RussKey BE" (tab is here now, but not in the main menu). To check the "Switch encodings" We will launch a desired soft additive, which is caused by an icon on the taskbar. By the way, the icons themselves - that russified keyboard, switch encodings - repeat, logo, the golden key on the background of the Russian flag. Switch encodings completely solve the problem with reading Russian texts in any format and in any program. For example, in the mailer. Or in the Web browser. And what is your browser? A browser works like a clock. Russian letters, pictures - everything is displayed exactly as it should be displayed. Read the text on the tiny screen of BE-300 is not easy, but there is a handy tool - switch frames. Select a frame with the text, include the mode of display frames in full screen. If you want to look at the whole page, just select the menu item "Zoom" - page will be displayed with a 50% reduction ... Understand very simply, in Internet are not so many settings, but still - the Russian-speaking and clear ... Paint the benefits of Russification address book Contacts or Tasks Scheduler is hardly worth it. Programs from elementary simple, easy to learn ... Did you know that the built-in system "raspoznavalka" handwriting Decuma (version 1.43) also understands Russian? Similarly, say - knows. However, she had understood him - in volume 15 custom faces Russian letters. Crack is nothing but the translation interface, not added to it (if I am mistaken, then I apologize), but the work (or play) with the handwriting recognition was much more interesting. The main drawback of Decuma - here is a restriction set in 15 letters. Something has to sacrifice. For example, typing soft and hard sign with the onscreen keyboard. But how cool to see how "Beshka" gets used to the handwriting of the master ... Accustomed, get used - I can see ...)

And that happy

Small flaws are (still - "yes" or "yes"?), But on the whole crack RussKey 2.0b turned out. Nothing like that is not found. And therefore pay for the crack - do not mind. Especially because it will be included with all new Casio BE-300, marketed by MakTsentr (as is now, crack version 1.11) ... Will my wishes? Will be, but a little later. In the meantime, some curious details of the "Beshkinoy" life. Manufacturer keyboards Go Type! Pro computers to Pocket PC and Palm Landware company has released a driver for Casio BE-300. Physical compatibility of system connectors BE-300 and other modern "Cassiopeia" allows you to use the "Beshka" periphery of the "older" machines. The whole problem - the drivers. Keyboard Go Type! Pro turns the BE-300 in a miniature likeness of the notebook, being at the same time, "crib" to synchronize with your desktop computer and recharging batteries. A wonderful tool. Hence the desire - to build a crack unit keyboard support and bring the party themselves keyboards, at least for the sample. Casio launches herself for the BE-300 modem (with two spare pens and a packet-screen labels included). I would like to touch your hands this fun, and then buy. Finally, the battery ... On the package "Beshka" picture an additional battery - very pleasant picture.Moreover, not only for me but for all, without exception, of owners Casio BE-300. I'll bet on anything (up to two rubles), but this accessory will be analyzed owners BE-300 in five minutes. For there is in this machine is no dirty tricks, but "skinny" battery ... With battery it would be happiness to us. Full Feng Shui in pocket-CBT. As for localization, that there is one wish - not to doze off. Not today or tomorrow in the head hard zadyshat competitors. We must try not to trample. In a broad sell crack RussKey BE 2.0 coming soon - as soon as a test program. The authors, translation:

Windows CE. NET on the Casio BE-300!

Casio, finally started to sell long-awaited CD-ROM with the update of the operating system for handheld Cassiopea BE-300 Pocket Manager. Now, "Kaskiv, thanks rewritable Flash-memory, able to work on the newest operating system for handheld computers. However, users will be available, not all functions of Windows CE.NET, which, of course, upset many fans of this machine, which after the bright promise Casio at the last COMDEX trade show expecting a full-fledged operating system with a completely overhauled user interface (bleak Top Menu irritates almost all users ). Among the major innovations that are available after the OS update, Casio calls:

• Built-in drivers Compact Flash cards for wireless standards 802.11 and Bluetooth.
• Pocket Internet Explorer - full (on the scale of a handheld device) web-browser. If you rely on a general description of Windows CE.NET and experience with the CPC on the OS DOT 320, one can assume that the new browser to get "Beshka will support cookies, and security protocols TLS 1.0, SSL 2.0, SSL 3.0.
• Updated user interface. Frankly, judging by the screenshots shown Casio, does not seem that the interface has changed radically. A pity.
• Arbitrary placement of font files. Casio site this paragraph is not very clear, but apparently it is "chip" Windows CE.NET, when large files of fonts can be placed not in a valuable built-in memory, and the expansion card.
• Windows Media Player (only in its audio part).
• System turn the screen 90 degrees.

It is worth the disc with the updating of $ 29 and available so far only U.S. residents. We, nevertheless, hope to get the disc in the coming days, and as soon as it appears in the wording HPC.RU, you can read a detailed report on what happens with "Kaskiv" after installing the upgrade. In the meantime, some information from the official site Casio: some questions and answers and some screenshots.

• What applications will appear on the Windows CE.NET Casio BE-300?
• Pocket Internet Explorer and Windows Media Player

• And why would not other programs?
• To save memory, we chose only two of the most popular applications

• On what models will be installed Windows CE.NET?
• Only on Cassiopea BE-300 Pocket Manager

• How to get the update?
• Need to call the order department Casio or order a CD on its website. The CD will be mailed (only if you're in the U.S.)

• Will applications and accessories designed for the Casio BE-300 with Windows CE 3.0, working after the upgrade?
• We recommend you contact the developer to find out whether its products with Windows CE.NET

• What file formats will support Windows Media Player?
• WMA and MP3

• To be installed Pocket IE and Media Player?
• In Flash ROM

• How much memory will the update do?
• Now we find out this question (zamechatelny answer, is not it? - Approx. Aut.)

Finally, some screenshots:

Unfortunately, the new Top Menu differs little from the old

New: Windows Media Player

NET on the Casio BE-300! "Width =" 240 "height =" 320 "/>

The new web-browser seems to be more powerful predecessor

Judging by the screenshot, the update includes Flash-player

Well, let's wait for the promised arrival of a disc to see how it all works. The authors, translation:

CAM a password

Almost all of my friends use handheld computers, but none of them uses the built-in Pocket PC password protection of data, although it could do it: their handhelds just overcrowded private information. For example, credit card numbers, PIN-codes, passwords to web sites. But at the same protection they do not enjoy ... Work with a password to Palm'e name can not be easy, it violates the principle of a PDA - to provide fast access to any information. Therefore, my friends and I carry around a pocket recording, knowing that they had no losses. In most cases we are fooling ourselves. According to a study Gartner Group, nearly 250.000 mobile phones and PDA are lost annually in the airports, and only 25-30% of them returned to their rightful owners. In recent years the development of technologies has led to the fact that computer systems can recognize and remember the difference between the retinas of different people, a form of hands, the contours of the ears, and many other physical characteristics. All this means that the biometrics (namely the so-called the technology) can bestow your mobile phones, PDAs, laptops and other devices can automatically identify its owner and not to permit access to the information to others. In other words, the case could go so far that your boss will not know you in person, and cell phone - will be.

What is biometrics?

There are two ways to give of yourself to know the system or to a stranger. The first - to give information which you possess, such as a password or pin-code. Second - using the fact that you have, for example, key or ID card. The problem of passwords is that people constantly forget them or write on a piece of paper that is then lost. ID-card and the keys have a tendency to often be lost forever. Biometric systems solve all these issues, making a password yourself. It is unlikely that you can lose yourself (unless, of course, do not overdo it with drugs, but this case is beyond the scope of this article). Even your clone can not fool a biometric scanner, because anyway there are many differences in the retina of the eyes, fingers and other important detail. Cries and lamentations of those who have stolen a PDA or cell phone - nice music to the ears of the developers of biometric technology. In 1999, sales of their equipment was $ 100 million. In 2002. According to experts from the international trade association of biometrics (International Biometric Association trade group), this figure will increase to $ 600 million. Various biometric systems can scan different parts of the body, but as soon as data collection took place, the principle of their action is absolutely identical. The computer converts the information into binary data and compares it with pre-recorded into a database model. If they match, the computer confirms that just crawled personality - the same person as the one who wrote the original code. Please note that the database keeps the underlying code, but not the image of a finger, hands, eyes or face. It's a little easier the event, but did not soothe all worries about the full disclosure of the identity that is stored in a database that plagued some users, because any hacker can break the system and get the codes of biometric scanners.

Biometrics and mobile technology

Biometrics are already widely used in the world. For example, the U.S. Immigration and adaptation of passengers (Immigration and Naturalization Service Passenger Accelerated Service System (INSPASS)) applies a system that allows use of hand geometry to verify identity and authorization of intersection of the immigration line. At airports across the country are tested scanners to detect people terrorists. Stock Exchange Stockbroker Charles Schwab uses voice recognition technology to verify their customers. While biometrics has taken strong positions in banks, airports and the secret services, and desired a tasty morsel for it still remains the possibility of using a handheld device.A dozen companies are working on integrating the retinal scanners, fingerprint and voice recognition to mobile phones, PDAs and laptops. Scanners are smaller, cheaper and become more accurate, which can be used in mobile devices, without increasing the size, weight, cost and power consumption of the latter. Voice recognition and fingerprint - the two major biometric technologies, expected to be used in mobile and wireless devices. Both of these technologies are safer than the number of PIN-codes, and can provide users with easy access to banking information, voice and e-mail and other private records without prompting for a password. Voice - the best choice for mobile phones, as in this case they do not require additional hardware. In addition, this technology is integrated into the phone. All you need to do to the system - it is written "voice print" which is as unique as fingerprints. Biometric systems that analyze the user's voice, pay attention to the type of pronunciation, tone and intonation of voice. To protect against hackers who simply could record voice owner of the device, many systems ask users to repeat a few words, chosen randomly. This is sufficient for the device to ensure the presence of a living person, rather than recording the film. Company Nuance, Trintech and Dialogic already make similar applications of voice recognition for mobile devices. In most cases, voice recognition is ideal for identifying "mobile" user, but there are cases where this technology is totally inappropriate. For example, if you wish to make a purchase from an online store using a smart phone with a color screen, you will not be very convenient to hold the device near your ear and say something to him. In this situation much easier it would be to use fingerprint scanning. Imagine a small area on the mobile phone the size of a postage stamp. It can be placed at the location where normally at your thumb when you hold the device in hand. When you take it, the scanner sends a signal to the microprocessor phone, which compares the finger man who took it with his finger the true owner. If they match, you can work with your phone on. If you do not match, the phone is locked, and sends an appropriate signal to the operator. The company AuthenTec, based in Melbourne, Fla., recently presented the technology EntrePad-sensor array size of 6.5 square mm, recognized the world's smallest fingerprint reader. It is designed specifically for mobile devices. EntrePad fingerprint scans, located directly beneath the first layer of skin, which can be stained or injured and thus distort the results. Several employees AuthenTec for testing purposes recorded their impressions, since sufficient time has passed, but it can still be see. The company is currently working with Texas Instruments to embed their technology into chips that will be used in future wireless devices. Company Precise Biometrics, Applied Biometrics Products, Fujitsu and Mytec also offer low-cost scanners, fingerprint smallest size specifically designed for use on handheld computers.

I see you, I know you

Today, when the market appears more and more mobile phones with built-in digital cameras, biometrics opens new opportunities for themselves - the human face recognition system. Company AcSys Biometrics Inc. recently announced a technology for handheld computers, and its main competitor - the company Visionics - to create a mobile version of FaceIt for wearable computers. The system was tested Visionics U.S. military police, and she used it in conjunction with GPS to scan individuals fundamental visitors in order to avoid crossing the criminals. But let us ask ourselves the question - not whether biometrics will usher in the transition of mankind in the era of total control, supervision over all and all? Who wants to live in a society where electronic devices will remember those who use them. Remember, at what time and even in some place ... Those who expect to receive some income from the biometric systems, of course, tell us what to worry about.As a conclusive argument, it cites the fact that every time you enter a PIN-code into a mobile phone, we tell the computer who we are and what are going to do. Biometrics is doing the same and has the added benefit of preventing fraud. I unfortunately can not answer this argument, but I want to know exactly - not whether biometrics can take us there, as proponents of freedom of thought, describing the unintended consequences of systems, originally created for good purpose. As an example, then you can bring social security number that is assigned to U.S. citizens. It guarantees pensions. And when his time was introduced the numbers, the state gave the promise that they will never be used for identification. Today in the U.S. without social number, you are neither able to open a bank account or visit a doctor. Now imagine that the state wants to have access to accurate information about each of us. This information is in the hands of corrupt officials can be used for blackmail. And people who realize that watching their every move, can begin paranoia. Thus, biometrics, of course, has great advantages, but does not carry a risk of introducing it in the privacy of everyone? I can not definitely answer this question. I wonder what you think about it. Sources, Materials:

Connect devices over the air

Wireless communication is gradually becoming in our lives and in our computers and mobile devices. More recently, infrared arouse admiration - should be the same! through the air, without wires - mysticism, but now it is commonplace, but still outdated - many nose gate! We now have a new fad - the wireless network when the wall is not a hindrance, and the wires under your feet (or hands) do not interfere. In the mass is still, however, is still making slow progress - the wires are still cheaper to go out, but on the horizon rapidly materialized ghost bright future when all devices within a single office or apartment, including telephones, computers, televisions and microwave ovens will be linked in a network of invisible threads. That's what most of these filaments, we are now and we'll talk.

IRDA

In fact, IrDA - is an international organization that develops and implements wireless standards. IrDA provides wireless connectivity to devices that otherwise would have used for similar purposes of the cable. To connect via IrDA device must be in direct line of sight of each other (an infrared beam emitted by a 30 ° cone) and away from full contact to one meter. Transmission speed ranges from 9600 bps to 16 Mbps. The popularity of the communication standard is explainable - the cheapness and ease of use. No need for any wires - brought the device to each other and in the bag, and implementation of such a port in the unit cost producer in the $ 1 ... Advantages and disadvantages of this method of communication are clear. Of the shortcomings of most, perhaps all, you can call one for communication devices must be in direct line of sight. Plus, some types of lighting (eg solar) may interfere with communication, as used, though invisible to the eye but luminous flux ... The next limitation - it's communication range, and a meter is not always enough. The main advantage of the same - the price, until now, as you know, continues to play a major role in the calculations of producers and serve the promotion of the format. LOS, may also be a plus - in the first place, this condition provides a simple physical security of information transmitted - to catch her because of all the limitations of infrared connection is problematic. (Except that try to "fit in" with the receiver anywhere within the 30 ° cone :-) And with the third party, often require communication between two specific devices, which provides a brilliant infrared connection. And the price, and a small power consumption, and compactness, and versatility make the IR port is ideal for our brothers pocket. On large computers, he already looks unforgivable remnant of the old - and slow and, in general, not very convenient, considering the condition of line of sight ... Bluetooth - another communication standard, which predict a bright future. If we believe the promises, predictions, and already a fact, shortly Bluetooth wireless modules will appear on all devices, including refrigerators and microwaves. Unfortunately, this standard is somehow hard to go out of its infancy. More than a year talking about him, but many more of his eyes and something not seen before. Thus, a high-speed microwave standard that allows data transfer at up to 10 meters. Bluetooth operates at a frequency of 2,56 Ghz and is able to simultaneously connect up to 8 devices. This standard does not require any skills from the user - as the only Bluetooth-enabled devices converge at a certain distance, they immediately share information and establish a small network. Bluetooth module is small and consumes about 1 mW of energy, which is not very much, even for mobile devices. Time to talk about the advantages and disadvantages of Bluetooth. The biggest advantage of this standard is that for communication devices is not required line of sight - the device begin to "see" each other as similar to each other at a certain distance.This standard transcend even the walls and it can be used to create small networks in the apartment, and for example, the compound of a handheld computer with a mobile phone can be done at all without removing the last say, out of pocket. Unfortunately, in practice it is much more complicated and lack of properly written programs and drivers for Bluetooth-enabled devices is creating a situation where the advertised ease of using it grows into a big problem ... Well, for example, if one device "sees" another, and then it - no . Here and go, smash his head, where the dog is buried - setting a minimum. On the other hand it is omnivorous Bluetooth could become one of its drawbacks. Suppose, in a room sitting at the negotiations for a number of people with Bluetooth-enabled devices. Provided that all the devices "see" each other, but you need to pass information to, say, a business card to a specific person, you may have problems in finding this man. In this case, infrared communication may be more convenient. At the same time, Bluetooth is still much more expensive than the IR port, although the promise that the situation should be in the near future to correct a little bit. Theoretically, nothing prevents the manufacturer to include both device communication standard, because, in fact, they are designed for different things. So yes, it is, in practice, and is, in any case, the first devices equipped with Bluetooth, such as PDAs or mobile phones. But unfortunately while Bluetooth is not so developed to gain popularity. For our country, its development, in particular, hampered by the fact that it has not yet received the state license though, I note, nowhere in the world licensed to such frequencies are not required. But, I think, to have little time ...

IEEE 802.11b

Another wireless protocol on the market, call names very much tongue-and at the same nezvuchnoy acronym for IEEE 802.11b. His friend, the advertising name sounds like an abbreviation Wi-Fi Wireless Fidelity or wireless impeccable and the people it is called Radio Ethernet. Commercially available, and along with popular, this format was in 1999 with the release of AirPort - the device lets you connect your computer to the Internet or local area network without wires. Standard that allows data transfer speeds of up to 11 megabits per second at distances up to 300 meters. Operates on IEEE 802.11b frequency of 2.4 gigahertz, which is close enough to the Bluetooth. Simply put, Wi-Fi transforms Ethernet into a wireless network status and is ideal for creating small local networks in those places where it is impossible to lay cables, for example, if a company has two offices located across the street ... Each of the radio outlets may, depending on the software installed serve as the end point of reception of information and hub. For handheld devices and laptops are available adapters, that's just not all necessary. For example, computers, Palm, for which there are also adapters for IEEE 802.11b is not "incarcerated" for work in the networks of Ethernet, but for the Pocket PC such an accessory in the form of Compact Flash can be a very useful thing, and greatly facilitate the work. IEEE 802.11b is not a competitor to Bluetooth, after all, in fact, they are designed for completely different tasks and, more importantly, for entirely different devices. Direct competitor of IEEE 802.11b is another interesting standard called Home RF. In fact, Home RF is the same as IEEE 802.11b, only in a more advanced version. If Radio Ethernet is designed specifically for data transmission in computer networks, the HomeRF can connect together, and computers and phones, streaming video and audio.In essence, Home RF is a symbiosis of the previously described technologies Wireless LAN and rapidly growing wireless technology, DECT. Home RF group developed Home Radio Frequency Working Group (WG), which includes more than 50 companies.

HomeRF USB Adapter and PC Card Adapter

Apparently, this standard can be called a home and suitable for a particular small digital microcosm within their own apartment. By the way, it works everything is at a frequency of 2,4 Hz - nothing like? The only restriction until the Home RF is that the information is transmitted at a speed of 1.6 megabits per second, so obviously no match does not go from 11 megabits to the case of IEEE 802.11b. On the other hand for the house-it can be more and do not need - where and how you drive the data with a similar rate, the more so as long as Home RF is more favorable price. Developers, of course, also do not sit on the ground and is on the way Home RF 2.0, which will provide speeds up to 10 megabits per second, but then when there will be! Remember the story with USB 2.0 - which still spoke of him, and now look at your computer - what standard it used for? Surely even 1.0. Therefore, a good spoon for dinner and talk about the updates can last for years!

Problem

Despite the reasonableness of each of the formats, divorcee use technology and differentiation in the use of the frequency of a used one and the same, and therefore may be even very serious problems associated with the intersection of information flows. All three methods operate on the principle of separation of the frequency channels. In this case, Bluetooth and Home RF «jump" from one channel to a certain pattern in the spectrum of 83.5 MHz .. IEEE802.11b divides the spectrum into crossing the 22 megahertz channels and already-nm transmit information. Understand what is happening in the room during simultaneous operation of all three standards, we can imagine 84-hour lane freeway at rush hour. On it goes a lot of small cars, which occupy less than one band, but nonetheless famously rebuilt from one to another (Bluetooth), there is heavy tracks with enormous vans that take up several pages, but rarely moving from their seats - are currently in their Right at cruising speed and everything (IEEE802.11b), but there are also all kinds of vans, small trucks, "Gazelle" and "Bulls", which, despite the fact that cars are much more, behave less rude, trying to cut and also jump from band to band (Home RF). Presented? Now tell me, whether in this case, to avoid accidents? This is now a major, but if she decides to Bluetooth, the creators of the Home RF and Wi-Fi in no hurry to agree - it was too dense, they are competitors, and the attention of computer companies, more and more pulled in toward the latter.

Outcome ...

When it's bright future and we will completely abandon the wiring is not clear, but now there is a choice and, if correctly formulated problem and a certain level of funding, the solution could be found, although the universalization not yet in sight. Nevertheless, from the infrared port does not want anyone to refuse - it was too much desire to save money, and the use of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi is limited nedorabotannostyu technology and high price. What would be good - brought the printer to the computer, and it is already connected ... Hey, would be enough patience .... The authors, translation:

His words climb

Probably not less than one third of questions in different conferences on the Casio BE-300, concerning search dictionaries for this machine. Unfortunately, to date no positive responses questioning had been received. The only dictionary on the BE-300, and he is working, judging by reviews, "through time" - a built-in E-Book reader Haali Reader, designed primarily for the translation of words in the text of the book itself. Now the situation has changed. The company "Information" developed a version of its vocabulary Context, adapted for "Beshka" and offered it to us for pre-testing. The first thing that attracts attention - an unusual installation process. Need to migrate to BE-300 folder and the executable file from the archive, then run already on the PDA, this executable file. Let me remind you that the built-in file manager is not able to run applications, so we had to use third-party applications, such as GSFinder. However, the developers promise to make the final version of the usual installer. However, after installation there is a feeling that the first pancake turned out not lumpy. The program interface is in Russian, so it is easy to use, even if you do not know English.

Here is the Pocket Context for BE-300

The program window is divided into two main parts: the string to write, and the field to display the search results. The dictionary operates in four modes: translation, phrases, vocabulary, hint. If you activate the tab "Translation", simply enter the desired word and click "Search" (this little button with a magnifying glass to the right of the input string word). In the field, we obtain the result. Incidentally, in the Anglo-Russian-English dictionary, which got us to test more than 60 thousand words, but the search takes about two seconds. Search results are highlighted, so read them pretty comfortably. When searching dictionary takes into account not only the words you entered but also its possible morphological changes. So that for example, the search results for the word "day" as follows: You can then click on the tab "Phrases and vocabulary will give a list of stable expression, in which the word" day "with the translation. The compilation of this list, it takes about eight seconds.

Search by keyword phrase

Mode "vocabulary" is automatically activated when you use the "Quick Search". It allows you to enter only the first three or four letters of the word, and then choose the end of the list. They can also be used as a normal dictionary, where all the words arrayed in alphabetical order. "Hint" is needed in the event that dictionary could not find the word you wrote. In this tab you can view a list of related spelling words, in case you make a mistake in spelling.

Context helps you find the right word

At the very top of the screen is a menu bar. Here you can change the settings of the program: to specify the font glossary and a search string, choose the direction in which tab to move if the word is not found, and turn on the speed dial.Here you can register your dictionaries (the program you can connect an unlimited number of dictionaries that can be found on the website of "Information"). Edit menu allows you to add in any dictionary your own articles or edit existing ones. Nearby are the "hot keys" for writing articles for users. Under the window of search results - a line for dictionary management. You can connect the new dictionary, select a language pair and one of the thematic dictionaries for it. The direction of translation (from Russian into English or vice versa), the program determines automatically by the first letter entered by the user.

There may be any number of dictionaries

In general, the vocabulary seems to be very successful and easy to use, with one exception. I would very much like to see when you turn it looked clipboard, if it contains text (words), copy it into the search box, and immediately gave the result. However, the current version is unlikely to last and, hopefully, in the following, this function will be realized. In the rest - use a dictionary a pleasure. Now the main thing - how to get a dictionary. In the coming days crack for Casio BE-300 RussKey BE 2.0 will be completed by the license for the dictionary. A couple of weeks dictionary Context will appear on the CD with language. Context for the BE-300 can be purchased separately in stores, "The computer in the palm." Roughly the price is $ 10. The authors, translation:

Quarta Russian MUI for Pocket PC 2002 - локализация для Pocket PC 2002

Российская компания Quarta Technologies любезно предоставила редакции HPCru эксклюзивный на нынешний момент материал. Это система поддержки русского языка для карманных компьютеров Pocket PC 2002 Quarta Russian MUI. Уникальность продукта в том, что по информации, полученной от представителей компании Quarta, продукт позиционируется не для розничной продажи. Разработчики собираются поставлять ее только OEM-производителям и корпоративным заказчикам. А жаль, потому что система нам показалась очень удачной, из-за чего мы и решили о ней написать. Quarta Russian MUI, на наш взгляд - это "то-как-оно-должно-быть" в русификации Pocket PC 2002.

Разработчики вписали себя в сведения о системе

Итак, дистрибутив весом чуть более мегабайта подготовлен к установке. Это так называемая RAM-версия, устанавливаемая в ОЗУ КПК. Ставим. Разработчики сразу предупредили, что во время установки в региональных настройках должен быть выбран русский язык, иначе система локализации не "встанет". Так и было сделано. После перезагрузки - на экране "обрусевший" вариант Today с меню "Пуск" вместо "Start".

Пуск вместо Start

Первое, что бросается в глаза: в меню стало меньше программ. Там только "Сегодня", "Internet Explorer", "Входящие" и "Проигрыватель". В меню "Программы" - только стандартные системные приложения (Word, Excel, калькулятор и т.д.). Происходит это от того, что после установки локализации в папке Windows появляется папка "Меню Пуск", из которой и берется содержимое главного меню. Восстановить его содержание можно, просто перетащив сюда ярлыки из Start Menu.

Меню русское, но сокращенное

Интересно, что на Casio E-200 в отличие от iPaq меню Пуск уже совсем не сокращенное, а полное. Впрочем, эксперимент не совсем чистый, поскольку русификатор был установлен на абсолютно чистую Каську, а iPaq был уже хорошо нагружен различными приложениями.

Старт-меню на Cassiopeia E-200

Русификация действительно полная. Переведены названия программ, все пункты меню и все системные диалоги. Для начинающих пользователей, безусловно, ценно то, что полностью переведена вся справочная система. Вот так это выглядит:

Встроенные приложения

Все остальные приложения из стандартного набора Pocket PC 2002 тоже щеголяют русским интерфейсом. Конечно, специфические приложения компаний-производителей остаются без перевода.

Перевод интерфейса Word

А вот так выглядит меню Excel

Календарь

Локализация почтового клиента

Список доступных кодировок

Калькулятор и конвертор национальных валют

Ввод символов кириллицы осуществляется только с помощью экранной клавиатуры, кстати, цветной и довольно симпатичной с виду. В ее настройках можно выбрать два размера клавиш(если клавиши больше, не помещается ряд цифр) и включить "жесты" - прочерки вверх-вниз, влево-вправо, заменяющие клавиши "Space", "Shift", "Backspace" и "Enter".

Вот такие красочные клавиатуры в Quarta MUI

Внутреннее устройство

Локализация работает на редкость надежно и "безглючно". Практически единственная неприятность (если не считать опустевшего меню Пуск) - в настройках аппаратных кнопок из списка приложений исчезли все установленные ранее программы. Причем сами настройки сохранились, и список программ для удаления с машинки ничуть не поредел. Еще не понравилось, что нельзя отключить перевод интерфейса (оставив клавиатуру). Впрочем, эту возможность и возможность динамического переключения между пользовательскими интерфейсами на различных языках разработчики собираются реализовать в следующих версиях. Кроме того, русификатор работает на удивление быстро: нет никаких задержек по сравнению с "чистой" машинкой, в то время как при использовании других систем локализации КПК заметно "притормаживает". Дело в том, что Quarta MUI предназначена именно для Pocket PC 2002 и работает не по старой схеме. Обычно движок системы локализации занимается подменой ресурсов (в которых содержатся данные для формирования пользовательского интерфейса, в частности, надписи на кнопках и в диалогах) некоторых системных библиотек. Сам движок находится в оперативной памяти и подменяет ресурсы "на лету", что заметно замедляет работу системы в целом. Главная проблема в том, что надо знать, в какой момент подменить какой ресурс. А для этого приходится лезть в текущие процессы (работающие программы, библиотеки) полухакерскими методами. То есть "обманывать" ОС, чтобы получить в нужный момент права доступа к определенным процессам. Понятно, что сам подход несколько порочен, однако для ранних версий Windows CE ничего лучше придумать не удалось. Собственно и современные русификаторы продолжают использовать этот подход. Кроме того, дополнительная нагрузка на оперативную память и процессор возникает при запуске отдельных локализованных программ (например Word). Решение же Quarta Technologies оказалось простым и эффективным. В Windows CE для Pocket PC 2002 есть функции, специально предусмотренные для решения вопросов локализации. Они позволяют просто указать системе, что ей нужно использовать не стандартные файлы ресурсов, а находящиеся в таком-то месте в памяти (не оперативной, а выделенной для хранения файлов). Функции, надо сказать, недокументированные, но отнюдь не закрытые и вполне работоспособные. Надо было лишь копнуть поглубже. Достаточно совсем небольшого программного кода, чтобы указать системе, какими файлами ресурсов ей пользоваться. Ну и, конечно, самих файлов ресурсов с русским языком. В результате русификация проходит на уровне самой системы, без использования каких-либо дополнительных приложений. Отсюда быстрота и надежность работы. В "рабочем" состоянии русификатор требует около 2.5 Мб оперативной памяти. В общем, система локализации оставляет отличное впечатление, в основном благодаря своей основательности и продуманности. Работает она безупречно и остается только пожалеть, что большинство пользователей ее так и не увидят. Что ж, другим разработчикам есть к чему стремиться! Авторы, перевод:

In an environment of moderation and accuracy

Casio BE-300 Pocket Manager in their own unique CPC, because it can be almost completely rewritten GUI - graphical user interface (that is what we're seeing on screen machines, then using what we have to BE-300 exchange information ). This opportunity and took advantage of some developers to create their own casings for "Beshka. The result was four separate and completely finished product, between them and divided to vote (and preference) of users. Thus, standard envelope - Top Menu, designed in the style of Windows CE.NET EpodXP, one of the first emerging alternative shells L'agenda SQPL and misunderstood KC Menu. Here is how to allocate votes: Tell me what you have installed a shell and I'll tell you who you are. If you follow this rule, it turns out that users BE-300 - people are mostly calm, thorough and conservative. They do not yearn for change, alien to them thirst risk (the risk to get more glitches than pleasure). They are satisfied that in the Top Menu can not easily add shortcuts to applications, hosts and the absence of the normal task switcher (can, however, to use separately installed applets). In addition, many users choose Top Menu because of the possibility of Russification (including, and Russification interface).

Top Menu

In second place EpodXP 2.0. I think that those 3.2%, which is now used by older versions of this shell, soon will pass no less "buggy" 2.0, if only among these users BE-300 is no fan of endless open windows when you try to start Internet Explorer. Those who choose EpodXP, sensitively catch the wind of change and extend to the new. In fact, the owners of earlier versions were able to see firsthand how some would look externally Windows CE.NET, when the machines with the OS in nature was not yet. The familiar Start button in the lower left corner of the screen, Taskbar, System Tray, Windows Media Player, desktop with shortcuts to programs and screen Today, as in the machine with the Pocket PC, - that's what gets to those who dare to set EpodXP. True, gets together with some firmware glitches and occasional lockups. In this latest version is still much more reliable than previous ones.

EpodXP

In third place - SQ - the golden mean for calm and practical. This shell - a custom desktop, where you can add labels, not only programs but also frequently used documents, quick menu to display applications, a convenient switch tasks, the ability to "hang" beautiful "wallpaper", an excellent built-in file manager with a function to launch programs.

SQPL

At the last place was KC Menu - choice of eccentrics. It is difficult to say why this shell is not very popular. Perhaps the reason is that the KC Menu pay ($ 5), although, to be frank, that in Russia very few people stop - there is a warez. Maybe KC Menu gained so few votes because there are no any additional software, as in the installation package, the other shells.There's just a pretty picture on your desktop (you can change) and a folder to store shortcuts.

KC Menu

Well, despite the many cries of rage against the Top Menu in various conferences, programmers (and designers) Casio - ahead. Incidentally, the number of polkonnikov likely to increase when the famous Russian users (but totally unknown to us :-) sites will Top Menu, not working on Windows CE 3.0 (truncated), and the Windows CE.NET (also, however, truncated). More details about the various shells for the Casio BE-300 can be read here, here and here. PS Please do not take seriously my characteristics of users:) The authors, translation: