Let's come clean, new products from Mio Technology mainly comes quietly, without fanfare, hot discussions and high-profile hearings. In this regard, the palm has long captured the Taiwanese High Tech Computer (HTC). Mitac simply produces devices that are often not very innovative, but, nevertheless, always occupy a niche and find cvoego buyer. However, the recent range of Mio is replenished attractive even for the connoisseurs of new technology cars. Thus, the communicator of the company Mio A700, with whom we met in June (see review "GPS-triple: a test race first navigation PDA"), compete with the same device from HTC. As far as our guest today Mio P550, it is also a very decent novice, such as the stealth in the market. For the first time the issue has become known for last year's exhibition Computex. This year, the unit also demonstrated at the stand of Mio Technology in Taipei, but until Russia got recently. Mio P550 - PDA in the classical meaning of this definition, with built-in GPS-receiver based on the popular chip SiRFstar III, all possible wireless interfaces (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) and camym large in the history of WM-units of memory on board - at a rate of 512 MB. Therefore, first of all, P550 interesting unusual for its class feature set. However, do not deserve much attention and high quality, reliable GPS-receiver and quite affordable price of the device. As competitors novelty arises latest navigation series PDA from Fujitsu-Siemens Computers (Pocket Loox N500, N520 and N560), and ASUS Mypal A632 and A636. Detail the specifications of these devices, we will not, you can compare them yourself, looking to the "Catalogue of the CPC on HPCru. Review of the Mio P550 will begin, as usual, by listing the basic technical characteristics:
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- Operating System: Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC Edition
- Processor: Samsung S3C2440 400 MHz
- Memory: 64 MB RAM and 512 MB Flash ROM
- Screen: 3.5 "transflective TFT, 240x320, 65536 colors
- Memory Expansion: SD / Multimedia Card, SDIO support
- Communications capabilities: Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi (802.11b / g)
- GPS: integrated receiver based on chip SiRFstar III
- Battery: Li-Pol, 1300 mAh, removable
- Audio: microphone, speaker, 3.5-mm stereo headphone jack
- Size and Weight: 115.6 x 72 x 17.8 mm and 170 g.
It is worth noting that by us to the test got Mio P550 with 512 MB of ROM. However, Mio releases and versions of the Pocket PC with 1 GB or 128 MB of standard on-board (soon to be the last gets to Russia). In addition, our hero - a senior at the new P-series. Junior modification received P350 index and different about the 550th less-volatile memory module is missing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and of course the lower price. But since the 350-I changed in Russia is not available, stay on it, we also will not. Glancing eyes specification Mio P550, it may be noted a large amount of ROM 512 MB, Bluetooth 2.0, the latest version and support for Wi-Fi 802.11 b / g. The rest of the picture is standard and familiar. See a familiar processor Samsung S3C2440 400 MHz, showing good performance and at the same time very economical. In general, technically P550 looks like a typical representative of the CPC of the middle class, unless, of course, pay no attention to the amount of memory. Just recently in the Russian market started selling navigation system Pocket Navigator PN-P550, which became the basis for the hero of our review. Recall that under the brand name Pocket Navigator-known ready-to-use GPS-solutions for automotive navigation. Usually, the composition of such a kit includes a PDA with built-in satellite receiver (in our case, the Mio P550), which plays the role of on-board computer, plus a navigation program with maps PocketGPS Pro. But of this we still talk, and while we estimate the contents of the box PDA.
Supplied
In principle, knowing the Mio Technology, there are no surprises can not be expected. Initially, the device comes only with the necessary set, except, as always, a program for navigating with a map (and it should agree that an important component for the GPS-PDA): - stylus
- Lithium-Ion Battery 1300 mAh
- USB-cable for synchronization
- charger from the 220V
- car charger (from the cigarette lighter)
- automotive fastener
- CD with accompanying software and crack
- User guide and documentation.
In this configuration everything is standard. Pero y P550 - telescopic, quite comfortable in the work, if not accounted for every time you push the withdrawal of body by hand. Of course, this can not be attributed to the shortcomings of the device. Thus, a small remark. As for the car mount for Mio P500, it is absolutely the same as that of the majority counterparts. The docking station, which is set PDA is attached to the windshield of your car using the suction cup. Adjust the position of the device allows flexible connection dock. Pretty convenient, time-tested solution.
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Complete synchronization cable, as well as both charger plugs into one connector - miniUSB. It seems that you and so it is understandable why this decision is better than a non-standard interface connector. And perhaps this is all that can be told about the contents of the usual box Mio P550. As for solutions Pocket Navigator PN-P550, which offers company MakTsentr "Russian users, then it contains also the best local navigation PocketGPS Pro Moscow with a map of Moscow and Moscow region. This program comes on a separate card SD.
Appearance
Mio P550 looks simple and stylish at the same time. Body is not overloaded with unnecessary elements. This is not a communicator, so the designers had the task is not to create a device that would easily manage with one hand. So we face the classic version with a familiar set of tools and recognizable design. Housing entirely painted black, like most emerging in recent models. On the one hand, we can assume that this trend of fashion. However, on the other hand, black is more practical: it is almost not noticeable dust and dirt. The only thing that differs from the main body colors - silver keyguard.
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The front panel is made of glossy plastic, however, not a brand, such as the communicator Mio A700. Fingerprints on it almost invisible. The back side and sides are made of opaque plastic, slightly rough to the touch, thereby improving grip case with leather hands. In size the unit still krupnovat, because it will be especially useful for men with large wrists. However, the fit and the holders of the average five fingers, thanks to a fairly good body shape. Now, visually inspect the unit on all sides. On the front side is traditionally there are standard-sized TFT-LCD. Above him a pair of LEDs, one of which points to the included wireless interfaces and a GPS-module, and the second triggered by reminders and lights up when you connect the charger. Under the screen fit compact unit keys and navigation joystick, located in the center of the keyboard compositions. The four main buttons have no complaints. They have a fairly large size and a small reserve. Clicking is easy and is accompanied by a barely audible click. Not quite familiar keybindings. One of them is responsible for calling the navigation application is installed by default.In the European version - is TomTom Navigator, but for Russian users - of course, PocketGPS Pro. On the other keys - turn the screen in landscape orientation and back, on / off the PDA and call information applications with data about the satellites. Now for the joystick. Triggered it is always correct, but its location and design seemed to us not very successful. The fact is that "sitting", he in a small depression, not speaking above the surrounding keys. A person with large fingers will be difficult to adapt to manipulate such things. In our view, a more sensible solution here would be a Five-way navigation button. However, this is not a serious drawback. In most cases, work with the PDA comes with a stylus or, if it happens in the car, run a finger. Well, now, "rundown" on the side and end faces. Let's start from the top. Here we have virtually nothing, except a small ledge with the inscription GPS, indicating that the receiver unit, the stylus holder and a small metal eyelet for a carrying strap.
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At the bottom there is a mini-USB connector, which, as we have said, includes charger and Synchronization cable. Ibid located recessed button to soft-reset and shifting of On / Off, completely breaking the power. Move it can only be the end of the stylus, so that a random unit is turned off you should not worry. The right lateral face appeared completely empty, except for the microphone and cuts a small plastic insert, about the purpose of which we can only guess.
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As for the left side, then here has moved the expansion slot (remember, this connector SD / MMC, supports the connection of peripheral devices, SDIO-) and 2.5-millimeter headphone. Oh, and it remains to note the rear of the building where the standard deployed a battery compartment, speaker slot and a connector for remote GPS-antenna, covered by a tight rubber cap. It is worth noting that in the case of chip SiRFstar III, which in our surveys said many flattering words, to connect an external antenna you'll need very often. And, perhaps, at this collated appearance Mio P550 can be completed.
Once again we say that the machine krupnovat and heavy. Its dimensions are 115.6 x 72 x 17.8 mm, and vec - 170 g. However, if you adjust this PDA for car navigation systems, the large value size and weight are not, as his primary residence will not your pocket, and dock in the car.
Screen
Display Mio P550, in truth, nothing amaze not capable. This is a standard size (3.5 inches) TFT-matrix with a QVGA-resolution (240 x 320 pixels) with a relatively low brightness and contrast.
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The brightness of the matrix is regulated in 10 steps, and completely disable it impossible. Minimum backlight level, which is located on the zero division, darkish for comfortable reading in the dark. And the difference in brightness between zero and the first division, in our opinion, is too high. Optimal brightness for the screen reader in the dark would average between zero and the first division. The maximum level is pretty good. In bright sunlight the screen too much "burn out", but at the highest level, highlighting the work could be called comfortable. Well, now let's Intermediate results regarding its design, ergonomics and screen Mio P550. Appearance - is simple, but quite pleasant, so we estimate it to "good." Build quality and convenience - at a similar level. Well, that touches the screen, the picture is rather satisfactory.
Speed and memory
On the CPU Samsung S3C2440, clocked at 400 MHz and established a Mio P550, we have repeatedly told. You do remember that it was used in the latest VGA-models from Acer (n311), as well as the communicator E-Ten G500, multimedia PDA HP iPAQ rx3715, and many other interesting models. Recall that this "rock" more economical and cheaper than similar processors made by Intel. Frequency of 400 MHz should theoretically suffice for all needs: from reading the text in various formats and plays music to movies and working with "difficult" GPS-maps. According to subjective observations of any slowdown in the Mio P550 is not observed. He was very smartly opens big pdf-ki, fast downloads of large documents in Word Mobile with pictures and is good enough for watching videos. Most games work on it quickly and without slowing down, we can successfully simulate the 8 - and 16-bit video game consoles, as well as MS-DOS to run classic games for the PC. However, let us prove the device using Spb Benchmark test package from the company Spb Software House. But before we look at the results table, remind you about the features of OS Windows Mobile 5.0. The fact is that because of the new organization of memory in the OS benchmark incorrectly calculates the speed of the platform and the index of the file system, and therefore we will only pay attention to paragraphs Graphic Index and CPU Index. For comparison were selected: "classmates" Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox N500 and ASUS MyPal A636, as well as GPS-communicator E-Ten G500 Pocket PC and HP iPAQ rx3715, a model similar to the Mio P550 to specifications.
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Test for some reason was not entirely correct. Repeated attempts led to the same results. However, some items can be tested to judge the closeness of the results Mio to the achievements of E-Ten G500. It is quite natural, since they have identical processors. Well, now look at the results of testing using a player BetaPlayer 0.096. Unexpected, in principle, they, too, is difficult to call. Thus, the figures are as follows:
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According to this index Mitac Mio P550, again equal to the older friend - E-Ten G500. However, all the same device from Mio Technology bit behind. This is especially noticeable in the ads with lower resolution. But in general we can not say that the picture is bad. P550 is quite possible to recommend to fans of "Pocket" video.Clips with a resolution of 320 x 240 (and watch movies with higher resolution at QVGA screen is simply not appropriate) to our guest today is completely in the mouth that really there to talk about the lower quality. With regard to storage capacity, here, as we mentioned above, the situation is. Our guinea Mio P550 is equipped with a solid volume - 512 MB flash ROM, which is very handy for navigation handheld, because it allows to do (at least initially) without storage cards. This amount would be enough to install navigation software with a package of cards. However, getting ready navigation system PN-P550, all the necessary software and map material in any case you get separated on the card format SD, which supports our hero. By the way, an expansion slot for Mio P550 - one and, in addition to SD, MMC will suit him cards and peripheral devices with support for SDIO. However, plug any peripherals you hardly need it. On board the Pocket PC has everything you need - from a normal GPS-receiver to the Bluetooth with Wi-Fi.
Sound
Audio features Mio P550 - quite STANDARD. Its external speaker sounds loud enough that you can listen not only voice prompts PocketGPS Pro along the route, but also music in the car without headphones. Sound in the headphones is also very good, although, of course, much depends on the quality of the headset itself. The only thing that gives a bit of trouble - is 2,5 mm jack. For any good headphones have to buy an adapter for 3.5 mm plug. But, in principle, it is a trifle. The adapter is mere penny, and sold almost in every stall. Another small mistake due to the microphone. The microphone is, the recording is supported, but the corresponding application in a set of predefined tools have been found. So that all potential buyers of this model will have to take care of installing third-party software, among which there are many programs that significantly exceed the convenience and functionality of standard applications. The location of the external speaker not satisfactory, since it is located at the top of the device, behind, on a small ledge, so that in any event does not overlap with your hand or car docking station when you install it in PDA.
Communication and GPS-receiver
As you know, Mio P550 is equipped with all the joys of wireless. Here and in the infrared, and Bluetooth 2.0 and Wi-Fi 802.11b / g. On the first telling, in principle, there is nothing: it is exactly the same as all other handheld looking out over the last three or four years. It is worth noting a set of drivers for the Bluetooth-module. Here, have a standard version from Microsoft, which, as we have noted many times, does not differ a nice interface and easy to use. Well, yes, no choice.
Among the usual set of profiles, which supports the Bluetooth-module Mio, also has a fashionable nowadays A2DP, which should please the owners of expensive models of wireless headphones.With regard to Wi-Fi, then this part of the device has a rather simple tool. On the one hand, it is nice - beginners can easily master the process of making connections, and on the other - fans tinker with fine-tuning will have to resort to third-party program, the benefit, those are a great many.
Very convenient to see the indicators included wireless module on the screen Today. Usually we see something like the small icons in the lower right corner of the screen, but here - a separate block at the top.
Now for the GPS-costavlyayuschey Mio P550. Talk about the work of time-tested chip SiRFstar III once again is not very desirable, but necessary. According to our recent material you might conclude that it works, even without an outside antenna is always good and keeps in touch with satellites, even where it loses receiver based on less advanced chipsets. Not for nothing is a solution now used by virtually all manufacturers of PDAs and smartphones with built-in GPS. Recall its declared characteristics: 20 channels, hot start - 1 sec, warm start - 35 seconds cold start - 42 seconds. Go to the reality of these figures are very similar, except for the hot start, which on average takes 3-5 seconds. But it's not critical.
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Testing of GPS-receiver was in an urban setting: on foot and in cars. If there is any difference in performance between P550 and the same E-Ten G500 and Mio A700, then the naked eye, it is not visible. The receiver loses connection only where it and put: under bridges, in tunnels and on the lower floors of high-rise expertise. To find fault with the work under normal conditions is impossible. So a couple with the same good software for automotive GPS-Navigation Mio P550 will be a reliable onboard computer. If you buy ready-made solution Pocket Navigator PN-P550, a complete navigation system will be supplied PocketGPS Pro with a detailed map of the Moscow region. Spetsversiya program for this PDA - 2.4.206. Actually, about the possibilities of application, we have repeatedly told in our reviews, but I think it is worth repeating. PocketGPS Pro for PN-P550 will display your position, course and speed on the map is displayed, Pocket PC, and finds the right address, or other object that will pave the road trip to Moscow and the region to bypass traffic jams, hold-route voice and visual prompts . Map PocketGPS Pro includes tens of thousands of streets with buildings, subway stations, rivers, towns and other objects that you can add your own bookmarks (waypoints).Base map data contains information on more than 5000 streets of Moscow and cities in the Moscow (Khimki, Lyubertsy in Podolsk, etc.), numbers of houses on these streets, intersections and interchanges, subway stations, gas stations, shops and a host of other useful information. Map is regularly updated. Information about these updates available to registered users.
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Try PocketGPS Pro in before you buy can download a demo version of the program, which, incidentally, works with some limitations.
Runtime
Capacity of a standard battery that comes with Mio P550 is 1300 mAh. It is not far from the average value for this device class. So, we proceed to testing for the now standard procedure.
- Maximum load. Vykruchena the brightness to maximum volume of the speaker, too, including Wi-Fi network in the search mode, and Bluetooth, the Windows Media Player in a cycle of playing "heavy" video. Battery life in this mode was - 1 hour 56 minutes.
- Normal operation. All wireless modules are disabled. The brightness is set at the fifth division of the account (ie, average). On PDA was started reading the text in Haali Reader with automatic scrolling. Time work was - 9 hours 28 minutes.
- MP3 Playback. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and the screen turned off. Listening through headphones at maximum volume. We used a Pocket Media Player and files with bitrates 192 KB / c. Hours - 18 hours 56 minutes.
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On the following diagram you can see that a Mio P550 compared to other PDAs. Results are expected, and they can be called average. With regard to subjective observations, during normal use of the device have to charge about once a half to two days. This is provided the use of GPS and a half hours a day, short sessions playing music via Bluetooth-headphones and 1-2 hours of reading. It is quite normal rate. However, battery life should not take you very worried, because the car will always be POSSIBLE to recharge the unit from the onboard network. Recall bundled Mio has a special charger from the cigarette lighter.
Soft
A set of additional software preinstalled seemed to us very humble. If you do not take into account the utilities to work with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as navigation software, you can select only one application - Mio Calc.
This multifunctional calculator and currency converter. You can convert both currency and various measures of length, weight, volume, speed, etc. The program is fairly simple to use and convenient. However, honor the manufacturer it does not. Set of software tools could be more impressive.
Price issue
The network of shops "MakTsentr - Computer in the palm of ready-to-navigation system Pocket Navigator PN-P550 (PDA + navigation system installed on a memory card SD / MMC) can be purchased for $ 549.
Conclusions
In principle, Mio P550, and especially the complex prepared Pocket Navigator PN-P550 on the basis of a handheld computer - the perfect solution for the latest navigation, which, however, fit for the ordinary CCP goals. Firstly, it is based on the modern model of a handheld computer equipped with a good level - "pick-up and efficient processor, very large volume of non-volatile memory to 512 MB and even with two wireless modules - Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Secondly, a "new interpretation and quality GPS-receiver, which works fine without any additional external antenna, and one of the best local navigation systems PocketGPS Pro Moscow, going complete. In addition, you provided a pretty big battery life navigator. And finally, PN-P550 is sold at quite reasonable price. If you traditionally decorate the pros and cons in two columns, we obtain the following picture.
Pros: - reasonable price
- large amount of internal memory - 512 MB ROM
- the presence of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- excellent built-in GPS-receiver
- Good battery life
Cons: - krupnovatye sizes
- a very modest set of preinstalled software
- fiddly joystick.
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