- work on the bugs;
- adding the functions necessary for corporate clients;
- poaching users Palm (or rather, to facilitate the transition to PPC for the staff of those companies, which are currently used by corporate decisions based on the Palm).
Have an opinion
This is a commentary on the news about releases Jornada 565/568, which was presented by one of our authors Oleg Kurapov. This is a personal opinion with which one can agree or disagree in our Conference. Today, Microsoft unveiled a new version of its OS, Pocket PC - Pocket PC 2002. It embodies a dream of monopolizing the corporate PDA market. Generally, it is felt that the specialists were set three main goals:
Reliability of handheld computers
In early 2001, we published the statistics on the reliability of hand-held computers sold in the Russian market. Now we have data for 10 months of 2001 and can show what changes have occurred, some models have become more and are less reliable. Data for 2000 were as follows: The coefficients of reliability of handheld computers for data service company MakTsentr for 2000:
Coefficient of insecurity was calculated as the ratio of the number of refusals (based calls for service) to the number of units sold during the period. Of course, such an approach is not entirely fair, as he puts in more favorable conditions over the rest of the models, which only began to be sold. However, bearing in mind that most of the problems detected in the first days of operation, this approach can be adopted. The most unreliable devices were found iPaq H3630/3650 with SR = 27% and Psion Revo with SR = 22%. Both devices have horrific problems caused by design flaws. iPaq often suffered the "mirror" screen and malfunctioning latch pen. Revo - improper charging of the batteries. The first 10 months of 2001 showed the following results:
Method of calculation was modified slightly. Taken into account in treatment service in the history of the sale of each unit, assigned to the number of units sold. This method smooths out the effect of several artificially high reliability devices, sales of which began recently, but this effect is not completely excluded. The calculation was taken as warranty cases caused by structural nedostatkmi devices, and negarantiynye related to improper handling. Leads the list of the most unreliable devices, our old friend Psion Revo. Problems, mostly old ones - indicating a violation of the charge leads to recharge batteries and unstable. But sales of Revo in 2001 were already very small, so that this issue maloaktualen. In contrast to the Revo, a model Revo Plus, has a quite decent performance, Kn = 5.7%. Problems with the charge still happen, but infrequently. If the user reads the instructions and charging device for the first time about 6 hours, the system charge in the latter works steadily. The second place got Psion 5mx with KH around 16%. This result is rather unexpected, sinceThis model has never been considered problematic. It turns out that by the end of the warranty period may occur wear plume is, in turn, causes malfunction of the display .. Frequently occurred and minor mechanical breakdowns such, sites like catch pen. All these faults are not fatal and easily removed the service center. Handhelds Psion come to Russia through various channels, the bulk comes through the company's Galaxy - the exclusive Russian distributor, but a considerable amount also comes from the Finnish distributors. Finnish Psion'y differ in some additional characters on the keyboard. We have not found any correlation between the channel of delivery and reliability. All these computers are assembled on a single production in China and the break with the same frequency. Again, the rate of SR = 15.7% not in any degree does not discredit the model 5mx. It's not a bad figure for a model with experience of nearly two years. Besides, it should be noted that the Psion 5mx is securely stores the data much better than doing it, for example, Windows CE devices. The following result, which immediately catches the eye - the company Compaq has significantly improved reliability of their devices. This was done without fanfare, the name of the models and their catalog numbers have not changed, but the design iPaq'ov improved. Now there are no problems with mounting the pen, the dust does not clog between the glass and screen. But there are new questions. Not always working steadily flash-memory. Not for nothing other manufacturers had to give up, this memory is rewritable and holds the OS code is not very stable. We also never been able to flash the problem by rewriting to achieve restoration of the OS, despite the availability of utilities. Questions also remain with the organization of the service process. Moscow Service Center Compaq, in principle, taken to repair or service any iPaq. True, they check the serial numbers on some blacklist, but we have never met with a refusal to repair the device, which channels they would not supplied, official and unofficial, from America, Europe, never mind ... The warranty period is 12 months from the date of sale to the user, but not exceeding 15 months from date of shipment of the device distributor. This latter date is never specified, it knows neither the dealer nor the buyer, so it's hard to tell what the actual warranty period for each individual customer. IPaq'i not accompanied by any warranty card, and it certainly looks a bit strange. Terms of repair obtained entirely unreasonable, up to 10 weeks! Service Center collects the defective unit and send them to Holland, some time is sending back. In contrast, for example, from Palm, Compaq does not replace the defective unit to the new, but actually their repairs. Four customs and two forward sometimes affected very badly for the health and appearance of the devices. Reliability of traditional and long-selling models Palm III and V series is determined by the KH 8-9%. Approximately half of the recorded fault does not guarantee, usually broken screens. Palma should be protected, not to drop them on the concrete floor, they do not suffer.
Replacing a damaged screen (more on the new replacement unit) costs 130-170 dollars. The devices V-series often fail buttons, they are rather weak. This problem has always recognized the guarantee, the device must be replaced by a new one. If the service employees dark and begin to ask different questions, like "Why did you do such a thing, but why so hard pressed?" Means to you is not an authorized center, and something else. After 8-12 months of operation often pass the internal battery. This is a common problem with all devices with non-replaceable batteries. It is difficult to understand the logic of manufacturers that make it impossible for easy replacement of batteries, specifically why create problems? Series Palm m100/105 has high survivability, KH-3%, there is no battery, uses two AAA batteries. The display is made of plastic and virtually unbreakable.Some time ago one of our customers brought us the m100, has survived a terrible fire in a department store. (Detailed story is in the library www.hpc.ru). Unhappy Palm melted, blackened, but completely preserved performance ...
Palm Company does not permit its distributors to repair the device yourself and just change the faulty patterns with new ones. All three Russian distributor have the necessary supply of equipment for the exchange, so the users of such a procedure takes place entirely painless. The most serious of "gray" suppliers to do likewise. In October 2001, service policies Palm has seen some changes. Russian distributors have received strict instructions not to take care unit with negarantiynymi problems. User is now in this case must apply independently to the service center at Palm eurosupport@palm.com, agree to repair the device, send the device to the specified address in England, to pay for repairs and shipping one way, and patiently wait for a similar reduced, not necessarily its , devices. This service is not cheap. Replacing the screen on the Palm IIIxe, for example, costs 85 pounds sterling. Sending a single device - 50-70 dollars. You can also expect problems with postal customs office in receiving and shipment. Obviously, this innovation did not please the Russian users, so we will try to convince Palm to change the decision. Reliability Jornada 720, normally sold only until the CCP from HP, however, increased. Duke fell from 9 to 7.8%. But most likely, it reflects the inaccuracy of the data, the device is completely changed. The main challenges are, as before, with the motherboard and keyboard. Damage to the trail that connects the motherboard to the display sometimes leads here to this "mirror" effect when the "click" on the right of the screen activates the left side.
Repair of devices involved in HP service center in Moscow and perhaps in other cities. If the repair is associated with the replacement of individual parts, and so is almost always, it may take 4-6 weeks. An interesting feature, we were never received Jornada 720 with a broken screen, apparently, it is strong and well-protected housing, other handhelds, these problems arise regularly. One of the users of "killed" the display by wiping it with liquid for notebook screens, the display is partially dissolved and went to spots like this ...
The last time we complained about the high reliability of all models of Casio. Although now KH has risen slightly to 4-5%, these devices are among the most reliable. Displays beating rarely, problems with the batteries, although they do occur, are solved very simply - the replacement battery, because it is removable! "Mirror" problems at all cleared, but there are others ... In accordance with its internal rules Casio admits the existence of a certain number of "broken" pixels on the display. Serviceable must be at least 99,99% of them. And at a resolution of 320 * 240, this means up to 7 allowable defective pixels, which are manifested in the form of points, such as green, like this:
Not all users, however, share this opinion Casio. Some even believe that for its 500-600 dollars they are entitled to all 76,800 employees of the display components.And remember, even the most advanced law on consumer protection. Service organization from Casio - the most correct. The firm provides the authorized distributors for the repair of spare parts and information, conducts training of service personnel. As a result, the user typically gets a quick and quality service. Although the life course, not everything is so rosy ... It happens that the ordered spare parts do not come for weeks, and then comes what is not ordered, but it is, hopefully, the problems of growth. Sony has entered the PDA market recently, but the quality and reliability of its devices can be envied by other manufacturers. Indicator SR = 2.4% typewriters Sony Clie displays them in a group undisputed leader. Indeed, It is a Sony! But the fly in the ointment, of course, there ... The fact that Sony is still not officially delivers these products to Russia. Everything that comes here, is intended mainly for the U.S. market. And although Sony Clie has long been certified by authorities Rostest, Sony service centers in Russia do not want to have anything to do with the Clie. If the problem still happens, one hope - to the seller. Very good reliability Kn = 1.9% received Palm m500/505. This is indeed a reliable series, controls better fortified than in the series V, broken screens has not yet been. However, very interestingly done mount palm in the cradle, remove it from the Palm can only be tilted forward. The fear is that the user can tear the root plug palm, if it is remove it from the cradle is not very accurate. Place the most reliable device took Diamond Mako, an American version of the Psion Revo Plus. In this model, while very few service calls. Most likely, the result is temporary, caused by a short period of sales Mako. Over time, this device will probably take place next to its European counterpart, ie somewhere in the middle of the list, closer to his best parts. The authors, translation:
| Compaq iPAQ 3630 | 27% |
| Psion REVO | 22% |
| Jornada 690/720 | 9% |
| Psion 5mx | 9% |
| Palm IIIe / IIIxe | 7% |
| Palm Vx | 5% |
| TRGPro | 5% |
| Visor Deluxe | 4% |
| Cassiopeia E-15 | 4% |
| Psion RevoPlus | 2% |
| Cassiopeia E-125/EM-500 | 1% |
| Palm m100 | 1% |
| Product name | KH |
| Psion REVO | 24,5% |
| Psion 5mx | 15,6% |
| Compaq iPAQ 3630/3660 | 10,4% |
| Palm III / IIIe / IIIx / IIIxe | 9,8% |
| Palm Vx | 8,6% |
| Jornada 690/720 | 7,8% |
| Psion RevoPlus | 5,7% |
| Visor Platinum / Prism / Deluxe / Edge | 5,4% |
| Cassiopeia EM-500 | 5,1% |
| Cassiopeia E-125 | 4,1% |
| Palm m100/m105 | 3,0% |
| Sony Clie | 2,4% |
| Palm m500 | 1,9% |
| Palm m505 | 1,9% |
| Diamond Mako | 1,5% |
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Entre Rios
Not so long ago the company Ectaco proudly announced the release of "the world's first pocket electronic translator that understands human speech." Of course, we could not pass the first available for test sample and not to talk to Partner V6 with no keyboard, just like human beings. The reality is, as usual, was much more modest expectations (and promises). Declared in advertising and user's manual recognition feature set of Russian phrases from a tourist phrasebook was only a demonstration of intent, but not their successful realization. According to our experiments involving dozens of people with very different voices, Partner properly understood "by ear" about one out of 10-15 sentences of two to three times more frequently in the diagnosis wrong, and the rest is just chronically does not know and asked to repeat it (the there is at least hold a conversation). The situation was clarified Dmitry Murzintsev, director of marketing Ectaco-Russia. It turned out that Russian speech recognition technology developed so far only in the rough, and this feature is included in the Partner V6, only to show the consumer the potential (and assurances of advertising and board - a simple mistake compilers). According to Dmitry, pocket translator, who can really understand the Russian phrases, to be released in about a year. In fairness it should be noted that in addition to this major disappointments in the rest of the new Partner worked well so far. Now in order. Let's start with the exterior. Gold-plated plastic housing Partner V6 caused persistent association with a case for glasses. For pyatisotdollarovogo device is a rather dubious merit (except that thieves do not Pozar). Small screen (touch screen, monochrome, 9x5 cm, 240x128) initially appeared in some very faint. However, in almost any lighting conditions are more or less readable, and eventually to a deficit of contrast once you get used to. Perot made in the same style as the body: it looks cheap, gets a significant effort, but functional raises no objections.
Use the touch screen is quite convenient to print on a virtual keyboard after some practice turns quickly and almost without error (the handwriting recognition or "graffiti" is not). With the touch screen is one more disadvantage: if the device is open at 120 degrees and put on the table, then touch the pen to the screen often upsets "Partner". Non-virtual keyboard causes some confusion because a separate button, for example, send a fax (see below) is provided, but to introduce a point - you have to use the "Shift".
The device is powered by two AA batteries AAA («Partner" worked about 10 hours and left them in working condition), the power adapter from the network is not included. "Ectaco" explains the complexities of certification of electrical equipment in Russia, although this artless a thing as devyativoltovy power supply, it can be ordered and on some domestic factories. Partner V6 functionally can be divided into a dictionary (or rather several of them: apart from the main there are also sensible American Heritage Dictionary, a set of thematic, travel phrasebook), means learning English, organizer, communicator and entertainment resource kit.
The main thing - it is, of course, the Anglo / Russian-English dictionary. Its merits, perhaps redeem flaws ergonomics. Million entries - is really very much if publishing on paper - will be at least a dozen plump volumes. Use an electronic dictionary handy for my feelings, compared with a paper analog spend two to three times faster.For each of several values found variants may require translation, to clarify shades of meaning; look transcription; asked to pronounce the word (according to the "Ectaco" realized speech synthesis technology allows voice not only that inherent in the dictionary, but generally any British a word or phrase). Speaker on the display lid is not very good (my cat, for example, hearing "terminatorsky" voice of the announcer for the first time, a long time refused to get out from under the sofa), but has a reserve volume (for a smooth adjustment provides a convenient scroll wheel on the side), but no headphone jack, so to save others from pleasure to get acquainted with your phonetic researches there is no possibility. Advertisement Partner V6 have provided much useful for those who are learning English. The most interesting thing here, perhaps, the focus correction system: you choose from the list of words, say it and get an assessment on a scale. I must say that I and a few volunteers with this feature as something went wrong: the program we knew from the fifth to tenth (maybe it should not be attributed to the shortcomings of "Partner" and the virtues of teaching English at the expanse of our country, although we tried as best they could, repeat aspiration, speaker utters a phrase). Organiser primitive (phone-notes-schedule calendar), but the communication part is entertaining. In "Partner" embedded modem, so that by connecting to a phone line, you can send faxes and send / receive e-mails. Mail, of course, stripped-down, attachment not get the message size is also limited (but reasonable framework for the incoming mail - up to 32 Kbytes), but supported and CP1251, and KOI-8, and general problems with the encoding is not found. There are, however, and his own "but". First, to connect to a phone line (and to synchronize with SC5) to buy «Communication Pack» cost $ 80, that two "lace" with a special connector is represented by some self-seeking. Second, the Dial is silent. It's uncomfortable - can not understand that at the moment is with the modem. Busy signal is often not detected, in addition, for some reason does not always resets the timeout, so a few times "Partner" he assured me in a few minutes, "dialing" is still going on, whereas in the parallel phone auditioned for the dial tone. Third, when attempting to connect to the POP3-and SMTP-server first every time I got an encouraging sign «internal error at-00000000 press any key to reboot». From communicating with Dmitry Murzintsevym revealed that the program settings to enter the real domain name of your mail server, not the Elias which is usually stated in provider 'configuration instructions (for example, the server smtp.aha.ru real name cgate.aha. ru - to find the ends supported by a team ping [host]), but somehow in the manual about it does not say a word.
In organayzernoy part it is also impossible not to note the recorder - a very decent quality recording and convenient control buttons, but alas ... there is no perfection in the world - only 12 minutes. Describe all the interesting features of "Partner" in this note does not work, so that a couple of strokes in the end. In the depths of the menu revealed a long list of English names, and you can hear how they are pronounced correctly. Another curious detail - the solver of crossword puzzles, the length of words and letters are already known, he offers a list of possible options. What to say in conclusion? Honestly, leave the toy does not like. Powerful and easy to use a dictionary that is always at hand - this is very nice. And the flaws - who has not? I would probably have kept a typewriter ... evaluate the "Ectaco" their offspring about twice as less. So, let's slash. 1. What is quite funny: for example, when asked to translate the phrase "Good evening", in response often heard «May I have your name?».Apparently, the translator believes that the time for no reason to spend extra ceremony. 2. Not even frustration, but rather deceived hopes for a miracle. Advanced speech recognition technology is not yet in the teeth of even relatively simple and well-developed languages, like English, not to mention the "great and mighty", but still impose this task on a handheld device with very limited resources. 3. For one girl attempt to remove the pen almost result in the loss of long manicured nails. 4. The absence of the adapter is critical when using the communication functions, a battery not last long there. 5. To achieve synchronization with a PC I have not succeeded, not helped even the latest version of the software, kindly send Murzintsevym. I do not know what it's written off, strangely I use my computer cord defect or software glitches. According to the documentation, records organizer "Partner" can be synchronized with Outlook (for e-mail folders it does not apply). 6. Several times this error message appeared when working with other functions, most often in the course of trying "to understand human speech." Original Articles can be found at Kompyuferra. Sources, Materials:
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Several amendments to the marketing research
Recently the company MakTsentr suddenly got a small report, conducted by a group of SmartMarketing, to study the PDA market in Russia. The document is called "Pocket PC: the forecast results of IV quarter of 2002." Since the topic of this for us is very interesting, and the conclusions of the report is seriously different from our data, we decided to comment on them. Apologize in advance for the meticulous and copious citation of the study. So, let's begin.
Ctrasti on PDA
Rhetorical question - when the PDA will become as popular as personal computers? When the number of owners of handheld machines at least close to the number of PC users? The answer - when the handheld computers will learn to perform tasks assigned today on the fragile shoulders of desktop machines. If you look at the most popular PC applications, and compare them with the applications of PDA, it appears that the differences are only in multimedia. That is a personal computer is often used for viewing video, audio and run the games. However, in principle, can be said about pocket typewriters, though none but - it's completely different level. Even the most powerful, most expensive PDA video view associated with converting files into a special format and the inevitable compromises. A "handheld" games with a textured graphics, there is no sound at all ...? Yes, with sound okay, but again, only in stereo ... Another question - whether a small computer surround sound and three-dimensional graphics accelerator. On business applications of PDAs such complication does not affect in any way, but very substantially raise the cost of computers. And yet, the user spent on a pocket-sized machine a few hundred dollars, waiting for the CCP more than he can give. For the mass market (to Whom is fully and I include myself), pocket computer - this is a computer, not a calculator with advanced functions. In the nearest future the situation could change very drastically. In the world of handheld computers come graphics accelerators. That is soon on his Pocket PC and even, to think only on Palm `s we can easily have fun with, say, Quake. Yes no resemblance to the primitive older "pisishnogo" brother, and textured with a full game. And the options for the gaming handheld for some quality games will surpass desktop machines - just think of the built-in Bluetooth wireless modules, and, accordingly, the ability to integrate handheld computers into the network. Multiplayer games at their fingertips. It would be nice ...
Briefly opportunities ARCHOS Jukebox MultiMedia can be described as follows. This is a portable external hard drive-based 10-gigabyte hard disk format 2.5-inch ("Notebook" standard), player audio files MP3 (and not just MP3) with the memory capacity of a giant, a digital recorder with stereo audio recording function in MP3, high quality digital Voice recorder with built-in or external plug-in microphone, digital camera and camcorder (in conjunction with the attachable module) and, most importantly, digital video recorder that allows you to play movies to MPEG4 (or DivX). Tiny ARCHOS Jukebox MultiMedia equipped with a color screen size of 1.5 inches, a video output for TV connection and built-in lithium battery for autonomous operation of the device for 8 hours of music playback and 3 hours of video playback. The picture quality on your TV is not inferior image quality video format, VHS, although the resolution is small - 352x288 pixels. Amazing stuff ... but MQ-1188 chip is able to transform a PDA into a digital video recorder, characteristics of which will be higher than the characteristics ARCHOS Jukebox MultiMedia, because the chip built-in and a hardware decoder and encoder MPEG4. That is, the computer can without strain (in the sense - not loading the CPU) not only play movies in the today popular computer format, but also to digitize video. We can only wait for the first models of handheld computers with built-in accelerators. Or - smartphones ... The full-length video of a cell phone? And why not?
The printer is equipped with every imaginable interfaces - IrDA, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB and LPT, and therefore can work with any handheld, portable or desktop computer. The device has a decent resolution (208 dpi). The width of a sheet of paper - 110 mm. That is, printing on sheets of small size, but, presumably, does not prohibit the use of roll paper. The printer has used the principle of thermal printing of updates ... I have learned from news feeds and recalled their own experience with portable printers. This is a printer Citizen PN48, which I just tested in action, and the rather exotic places for our device - thermal printer Kodak, who faithfully served me for five years before going to another owner. Both printers are designed for laptops, but the Citizen should work with the CPC (with appropriate driver support). As for Kodak, he was released before the advent of handheld computers - in 1995. Besides, I got changed for the port LPT, for which there was no interface IrDA. Citizen pleasantly amazed almost laser quality printing and uncomfortable - the high cost of consumables. One roll of black ribbon was only enough for two dozen pages, with a pair of commercials sold for ten dollars ... The print quality Kodak `but it was worse, but no operating costs (the printer itself cost around $ 500). I still do not know anything better than an old thermal printer. Corporate commercial paper that was attached to the printer, ended immediately. Dismissing warnings from the manufacturer, I took advantage of our Russian fax a piece of paper. And Kodak has worked with her, like a clock. Never choked, never mess up ... However, the prints did not live long - until the first prolonged contact with more or less warm objects. Kodak itself was surprisingly small and could easily fit in your pocket. In it, there were no trays.Only two slots - to receive the paper clip and release the finished print ... Where are these devices? For "marching" applications better than to ... Expediency print from the PDA can be questioned. Indeed, large-format paper (standard A4), pocket computer will not display on screen. We are only a small notes and calculations ... But try to work in a desktop calculator with the press. When the entire course of the calculations is fixed on a narrow paper tape similar to the cash (she probably is). Handy thing! But certainly not for $ 500. Printers PDA released before - mainly for the Palm `s. But in Russian stores, they did not come across ... Printer Nomad attracts primarily for its versatility. And if this is a thermal printer, then - cheap consumables. If Nomad operates on the principle of dye sublimation printing, I would still prefer a time-tested portable Citizen (any model). And then one of the little "struynikov" Canon (for example, the model BJC-55). Drivers for these printers are part of the software keyboard for Pocket PC Jornada 728. Pocket PC, printer, cell phone ... Life is indeed becoming mobile. The authors, translation:
The new chips - new perspectives
Reports of release of chip graphics accelerator companies ATI (Imageon 3200) and MediaQ (MQ-1188) have not lost the status of hot news. While we are talking about the first industrial designs (although MediaQ already produces a second model circuit). Real embodiment in the form of multimedia Palm `s and Pocket PC - Multimedia in a broader sense than today - we'll see will not soon ... but it is a real technological leap, like the appearance of the PDA slot for removable flash memory card or the same module Bluetooth. True, it is not yet on the three-dimensional accelerator, whose presence in the home PC, we have already seen how a well-established standard. The new chip from MediaQ - a 2D-accelerator designed to offload the CPU from routine operations of drawing the screen. As a result, the speed of the graphics system of the CCP is expected to grow at times, and enegropotreblenie small cars, has weakened. On the other hand - and needed if today's PDA, so they are, 3D-boosters? On the small screen hard to see the shadows, background transparency, small parts, and other delights textured graphics. But the "flat" two-dimensional image is clearly slow. Look at the game Doom for Pocket PC. First, it leads the user in delight, but then, almost poobvyknuv, you begin to notice the "lethargy" pictures and graphic design to simplify the game. Three-dimensional graphics accelerators - the future of handheld computers. Their arrival will allow you to connect a small computer to a TV or monitor via a large built-in or external adapters ... It smells of serious changes in the field of gaming consoles. Do not you find? .. The new chips are endowed with diverse abilities. They are, for example, are able to derive the new qualitative level modules of digital cameras PDAs and Smartphones ... but I wanted to talk about another, equally desirable and popular functions of handheld computers - the video playback. Example of successful decisions portable videokonsoli may be a miniature multimedia processor ARCHOS Jukebox MultiMedia. Despite the relatively high cost, about $ 480, this multifunction device is actively sold (including Russia) and enjoyed a good demand. |
Not only games
Another news item that caused particular concern relates to peripherals for handheld computers. Namely - the printers. Company Mobile Command Systems has released a portable printer for PDAs called Nomad. |
CeBIT 2003: Business news
Today completed its work the largest annual computer fair CeBIT 2003 (Germany), which usually serves as a meeting place for partners, and helps establish new business contacts. In Hanover and attended by representatives MakTsentr, namely, Dmitry Havzhu, CEO and Dmitry Serezhnikov, head of sales of pocket PCs. Helped them Anton Kuznetsov, head of the project HPCru, who spoke in their own roles korrepondenta our magazine at the exhibition. At our request, Dmitry Havzhu commented the course and outcome of negotiations with key partners.
MakTsentr representatives discussed with the Palm joint marketing activities in Rossii. The latter expressed his willingness to substantially increase the marketing budget, which should naturally affect the reputation of the brand in the domestic market.
Palm also included in the list of approved accessories, flexible silicone keyboard Flexis FX100, Russified version of which produces and sells currently MakTsentr. Included Parts, besides the keyboard, is an original development of the company - the driver Uniboard, which ensures correct operation of the binder pocket PC with a keyboard. The news about the appearance of this product in the Russian market has caused a very positive reaction from representatives of Palm. Now the Tungsten T can work with a flexible external keyboard, fully adapted for our users, and it's a good argument for switching to the device.
In my opinion, we managed to convince the Japanese kollleg in perspective Zaurus PDA shipments to Russia. A strong argument has served as shown by us Russification of the device. Sotrudiki Sharp did not expect that Russification is possible and real, and it has given them much hope. No concrete decisions at the meeting was not accepted, but we agreed to continue negotiations.
I very much hope that the Moscow office of Sharp agrees to supply, and we do not have to carry Zaurus directly from Japan, as is done now. I especially want to note the device Zaurus SL-C700, which has a completely unique design. In my opinion, to leave the Russian users without simply unreasonable.
As a result, we went to meet halfway: it was promised to ship 500 pieces of BE-300 in the coming weeks and 700-800 units in May - June, after which new supplies are not guaranteed, and therefore we will continue negotiations during the summer. As regards, Pocket PC Cassiopeia E-200, their delivery is completely stopped. Managers of the company explains this cooling to the PDA desire to focus resources on the promotion of digital cameras, considering this market is more promising. Sales figures are also hand-held computers of this brand in Russia say the opposite, so we can not agree with this position Casio.
MakTsentr signed a distribution deal with MiTAC, but for us inaccessible devices supplied for Rover on OEM contract. In particular, the most popular model Mio 338, better known to us as Pover P3. We are exploring the possibility of solving the problem of supply expense of Yakumo.
This time CeBIT'e c MiTAC failed to agree on the supply device Mio 728. We received samples of this curious device in all respects and will soon appear on the pages HPCru information about the test results. The sale of the "PDA phone" in Russia may start in 6-8 weeks.
Another company, is seriously engaged communicators - Taiwanese ETen. One of the models - P600, we have already tested. Her review can be read here. Others - a tri-band P603, is currently studying and report the results a little later.
In talks with Mr. Wayne Ma, president of the company and Mr. Andres Liang, Director of Sales (pictured), we took a fairly serious commitment to the promotion of communicators in Russia and agreed to sign an exclusive contract. The first P600 will be available in late March.
In a conversation with Mr. NHKim, president of the company, we discussed the need to improve customer support through the Internet and in particular the fate of the site www.dev.dotel.co.kr, who recently disappeared from a long time is given. Co his part, he promised to correct the situation.
President Pretec Mr. Gordon Yu talked about new products, among which the most interesting are the new memory card format SDCompatible, multifunctional CF-card type "2-in-1" (GPRS + 128MB memory card, a hybrid of Bluetooth and GPS, GPS-receiver and 128MB of flash), a digital camera on a SD-card ...
... As well as CF card, Leapt 6 GB-line ...
... Digital Camera Pretec DV-4200 with the possibility of creating movies in the format of MPEG4 ...
... And a portable GPS-receiver, which works with a PDA wirelessly via Bluetooth, and a few other devices on which we reported in our news. Pretec now occupies a leading position in Russia as a manufacturer of peripherals for the expansion card format Compact Flash (modems, digital cameras, GPS-receivers, LAN-card) and malozameten market expansion card memory. New developments will allow the company to improve the company's position in this niche. The authors, translation:
Palm
March 13, the second day of the exhibition, held talks with the oldest and most tradition and partner MakTsentr - by Palm Computing. We have verified that Palm feels confident enough in a situation of fierce competition. Although the exhibition has not been shown new models, as expected, but in the very near future, Palm, definitely give its response to competitors. The details are still default. |
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SHARP
At CeBIT 2003 MakTsentr delegation began talks with representatives of Sharp. They were attended by Mr. Takeshi Kishibe, head of the Moscow office of Sharp, Mr. Mamoru Takatsuka, business and Administrator of the European office, Vitaly Gritsenko, marketing director, who organized the meeting. |
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Casio
Casio at the booth we talked in detail about the prospects of business with Mr. Marco Pistollom (Marc Pistoll), the European branch manager of sales planning company Casio. As is known, Casio Pocket PC froze production, although it has recently been on the list of favorites of the market. We tried to convince the partners to continue to release at least two models of Cassiopeia - E-200 and BE-300. |
MiTAC
One of the most notable vendors in the PDA market today - the Taiwanese company MiTAC. Device of its production is already well known in Russia as a native brand Mio, and a Russian - Rover. In Germany, Mitac sold under the name of Yakumo. |
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ETen
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DOTel
MakTsentr promotes a device of this company under the Russian brand Wincent because of the significant differences between the Russian version of the Korean. Until now, selling Pocket PC Wincent 320 were low due to, basically, a small number of programs under WindowsCE.NET. It seems the situation is changing for the better. Already in summer 2003 DOT plans to equip its new Pocket PC operating system DOT400S CE.NET 4.2, which allows you to work with programs written for PocketPC. A little later, the company plans to launch another new product - DOT400W - GSM / GPRS device. |
Pretec
March 15 as part CeBIT'a seminar (workshop) European distributors Pretec, a reputable manufacturer of flash cards and accessories for the Pocket PC. MakTsentr received the award for the fastest-growing business. |
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Viewpoint: The problem of "incompatibility of ideas and opportunities PDA users"
![Viewpoint: The problem of "incompatibility of ideas and opportunities PDA users&quot](http://www.hpc.ru/lib/arts/2063/banner_v1.gif "Viewpoint: The problem of "incompatibility of ideas and opportunities PDA users&quot"){kind=small} |
![Viewpoint: The problem of "incompatibility of ideas and opportunities PDA users&quot](http://www.hpc.ru/lib/arts/2063/5.jpg "Viewpoint: The problem of "incompatibility of ideas and opportunities PDA users&quot") |
PDA for non-computer person
To begin with, that person away from the computer, after reading articles about PDAs and bought it, it will be extremely disappointed. Just myself, I watched one such in the computer market, which is very much like to buy and still buy the cheapest at the moment and the most publicized Palm Zire, the one without tsifirok. With what face this man, bringing home this model?- And he will face several challenges:
- Install the software supplied.Already this point implies the existence of some knowledge and that the user must still be aware of before buying a complete uselessness (except Calculator), this PDA without a fairly frequent communication with the computer.
- Synchronization with Outlook. Each platform is doing in its own way, but in order to synchronize the data need to be THAT sync. How often does a normal user, periodically playing or typing essay for the institute or cooking plate on the door for work, making the phone numbers to contact the program Outlook? I think never.
- Installing new programs. Vce opportunities CCP open software that is written under it. Consider whether the user is satisfied with the free software disks? All I saw is just sad feelings. Very rare things come across on the Internet and then only after more than one hour of laborious search, of course, is hardly available to the common user, which works with the computer is not connected.
PDA for simple and advanced user
Here we have all the easier. These people have made our choice for a specific purpose. However, as this is not funny, usually in order to join civilization. They have read many articles on specific platforms, screenshots examined a large number of programs, consulted with clever admins at work, looked in the wallet, and bought ....- And what do we have here:
- Installation of related programs. Well, in that they succeeded, the more that is always waiting in the wings "Next" button;) was successful. Those who bought a Palm, and even bothered to read the instructions, got rid of any abuse of the system. Others simply ignore it (well, still works ...). With Pocket PC - even simpler. Everything you need - in one bottle, so that even the instruction not to look.
- Outlook. And this is the first joy - of the newly synchronized with the mobile phone in the PDA Outlook'a fell contacts. Here it is - the first victory. And I'm not going to argue that the timing will soon become entirely coincide only with the charging, or delivery of new software. And all because only a few will enter telephone numbers and addresses handles PDA. Others, at best, with a piece of paper or notebook. In the meantime, happy to watch it "rains" on the PDA. I'm glad that even though we are taught to use the keyboard.
- PDA software. Here it is, the ability to sculpt anything from this device. But first, it must be found, and secondly, to properly install and configure. This is where it begins and the prose of life. Advanced and not very much. "Next" button there, you must be a strain. Yes, still have little knowledge. But even the Internet on a PDA set up easy - you have to gather all necessary data, according to them to set up the CCP. Yes, another condition - let the mobile operators do not take offense - that the network worked. I have more than four years of experience using the Internet over cellular networks. This is a sad experience. A short essay on Moscow and the surrounding area will give at the end. So everything is finally finished reading the book (iSilo & Haali Reader), so a game of puzzles and simple arcade games. Do not tell me about the videos and movies! Convert them, even on a powerful computer, fun - not for the faint of heart.
Geek
We approached one of the most interesting types of users. This chapter is about the computer geeks. Immediately say, that there would be anyone who "works with computers, then there will not be admins. About them below. All programmers, webmasters, designers, web designers and others who set up their own PC and work on them - that's who we'll talk. They do tend to be more informed choice for their tasks, because they represent, with what would be the case. And software are beginning to stock up before buying the device.- Installation of related programs. You can not even describe it. It is their work environment.
- Outlook. How wonderful, a choir, they would say, if the exports are not from this program, and from "TheBAT!", For example ... But all the necessary plugins are found and configured. So now that your software on the "Big Land" is quite friendly to the little friend.But! As always ... I called the chief, received a phone call, said something to a colleague and quickly writes up a PDA, not in Outlook or its equivalent, and as you might think, where? Right! - On a piece of paper.
- PDA software. These highly skilled people from the CPC becomes a powerful device in the classroom cvoem hilenky analog desktop. In the course there are emulators, cross-platform software, ports programs. Unfortunately, this approach almost any specialist. And a little later, seeing that just what he wanted (and actually want to), it is under one platform is not found, and emulators enough braking and buggy, and the DOS emulator has many limitations, and competing platforms in general no one has been able to workable emulate, he is disappointed. And what does he do? He reads books, plays in a simple game (and swearing, but when write good free "Sokoban"), and in the presence of even a small interest in music, in parallel to all this listening to MP3.
System administrator
A separate category is for special merit, but for the attitude and frame of the CPC, which implies this profession. Much easier to go with a PDA on your belt than with a laptop in a bag, even with a very light laptop. About the choice of paint for a long time has no meaning. If the admin takes a PDA for work, it's something with the Pocket PC. And not because he knows some secret information on this branch of development, but simply because the network card for Palm there is only one and quite poor software. Bluetooth card for the Palm appeared recently, and the normal drivers from the manufacturer are not done yet at all. Not funny. Rather sad. And this gap is particularly noticeable in the presence of the background of virtually any device for the Pocket PC as a CompactFlash-cards: whether the network card, Bluetooth, 802.11b, Modem, COM-port or a VGA-card. In general, if there is a certain amount of money possible on the basis of PDAs to collect exactly pocket complex in the diagnosis and management of their equipment from anywhere (with links). This category of people does not make the CCP in analog laptop, since nearly all tasks have the appropriate tools, native to the platform that do not require emulation.- Walk into our list:
- Install the accompanying software. Sense to disclose the names on this item no.
- Outlook. Hmm ... When properly configured, your phone, PDA and Outlook are synchronized with each other, which has a beneficial effect on the preservation of data "just in case", and this fad in this group of users. If the admin to spend some sufficiently small time, then get rid of the possibility of losing someone's phone (affects triple redundancy).
- Software. As a system administrator can tell you: "Everything works great and is relatively stable." A properly configured and balanced Pocket PC - pretty stable, if not considered desirable to reboot every day. But it happens pretty quickly. You have to understand that the CCP is not a laptop, and management through ssh my server can be quite painful if you're used to the window, and even interactive interface. And the presence in the pocket device, which allows you to quickly ping, protreysit address, check your email service, web site, ftp service is very difficult to overestimate. Sniffer in your pocket will appreciate not only administrators but also by those whom they oppose. In general, the loss of portable prichendalov weight 10 times made me complacent and responsive to the user:)
Players
This is a very special and usually quite skilled cast, which also look forward to developing the platform device. But we must remember that the purpose of the Pocket PC and Palm is very different from the destination GBA. The first game, as expected, were logical and not particularly dynamic. Because the dynamics requires a strong video subsystem, I would even say a powerful graphical mathematics, computing resource on which the CCP is not focused. Powerful Video would make the device very expensive and would require special software. Looking at a variety of gaming software on the PDA, we note that this is not a PC, and the same resources and upgradeability is not. So do not wait for comfort and control even in a good emulation of the console SNES. Native same game is not spoiled diversity.And three leisurely days on the internet + is less than 100 megabytes of downloaded will provide you with a complete view of the situation in this market. It's a pity only that so few remakes of hit games for the PC. I am aware of only a few - Warlords, Worms, so run through emulators. But this is not - neither the speed nor on playability or the convenience of management. So I think the Pocket PC and Palm OS has not yet dorosshimi even to the most junior game platforms like GameBoy. But mainly because the video subsystem and the inconvenience of administration, as well as the reluctance of programmers to write for them.Cellular operators
One of the saddest parts of this article. Due to the fact that the services of GPRS, are important for everyone who is far from the civilized (read - "dedicated") communications, while in its infancy. I'm just going to describe their experience of data transmission via cellular networks. It all started back in 2000, with traffic through the company, MTS, through normal channels. With this all was fine except the price. For the money paid for itself within a year to anyone, even a very expensive dedicated line. As soon as the matter of the first test the service connection GPRS, I almost immediately got a phone with such a facility - and in vain. The first was the MTS. Yes, she is now and the service coverage is ridiculous. Find it impossible to even consider. So it is with Megafon - a very small area. And yet, I bought it because of that, because of what to buy everything - an unlimited traffic. Zalimitirovali it to me very quickly - over 150 megabytes. Just GPRS session, I have not been able to establish, and, in the service tech support told me: "We will understand: only bring to the office." Unfortunately, time did not and went the easier way - went to the Beeline. The latter, due to an expensive tariff, has been extremely responsive and sociable. Speed in the 3.5 Kbytes per second suit me, however, the frequent incidence of service and complete helplessness tech support at this time, I was frustrated. But here is coverage - just wonderful. Frequent trips to Kaluga not leave me without ICQ on the road. In general, for that matter-one council can not give because I know people who are actively using, according to them, unlimited traffic through a "MegaFon", but because of bad coverage, I personally do not even want to try this statement.Internet and PDA
This material is for the whole article. Therefore briefly describe the usual scheme of using the Internet on your PDA. Typically, this ligament with a mobile phone, mainly via Bluetooth. An infrared connection is convenient only in stationary conditions and preferably with the availability of jobs. "Blue tooth" also allows you to work with the CPC as usual, he was not aiming anywhere and under any who are not adjusting. Of the services - is, of course, PocketIE, but always with a speculum - multiple windows and store pages, and you quickly feel their inferiority. Mail is very easy life for those who commute to work longer hours and not driving. ICQ is not very convenient, but very interesting in the way of the field from any point. Oh, and just got this PDA and connect to their very pleasant, if not uncomfortable for long sets of text on-screen keyboard. All other services also exist, but are specific and simple user PDA is not as interesting as the three above. If desired, there are FTP, and IRC, and NNTP, as well as the server of these protocols.Conclusion
All the technical details and reviews of good breadth of view, but bad because the buyer CCP does not understand that as our brains to use it handheld will not be at 100 or even 40 percent, but much smaller. Therefore, the potential buyer, do not get upset when, after 4-5 months after purchase you are tired of testing new software on your Pocket zavedetsya several other books, news from the web page, so any simple little puzzle or solitaire. PS This material is published under the rubric of "Viewpoint". If you have any interesting ideas, news, thoughts, of course, fit into the theme of our website, then you are welcome. HPCru ready to provide you with a virtual platform where on your point of view, learns more than one thousand of our visitors.For publication in the "Viewpoint" does not necessarily have to be a professional journalist, it is sufficient competent to formulate its position, it is interesting to present its arguments, and formalized in a small article (whose title story, a curious beginning and ending.) So, if you wish to speak, meet our rules below and send your "perspective" at editor@hpc.ru.- That condition of publication in the "Viewpoint" on HPCru:
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