PalmOne Tungsten T5: now officially

Today the company is palmOne, finally officially unveiled its new handheld Tungsten T5 - one of the most anticipated models of the season. This PDA could easily pretend to be a pleasant discovery for users and fans of the platform Palm OS, thanks to a record amount of internal memory - 256 MB on board. Moreover, all 256 MB - non-volatile, so that actually solved the problem of data loss when battery is completely empty PDAs. Newcomer also boasts a host of other no less interesting characteristics, which together constitute a very attractive portrait of the Tungsten T5. Presenting your attention the entire presentation of the new top model from palmOne. The authors, translation:

New cmartfon Kyocera 7135 - for those who understand

An interesting news - the Japanese company Kyocera launches new smartphone model 7135. For us, this device is rather theoretical than practical interest (in any case - so far) because it works only in the mobile networks of third-generation standard, CDMA2000 1X, allowing to implement voice and wireless data transmission at speeds up to 144 Kbps. Nevertheless, the emergence of the Kyocera Smartphone is welcome. This is convincing proof of "omnivorous" Platform Palm, and an exhaustive answer to the question - what can we expect from the world's largest manufacturers of wireless communications in the coming years.

Kyocera 7135

Externally, the new smartphone looks like a foldable cell phone, but several enlarged dimensions (100,8 x61, 6x29, 7 mm and weighs 186 grams). This design - the case of two halves, connected by a joint - has spread with a light hand Motorola, first released folding phones. The design turned out very successful, smart phone does not occupy much space and easily fits in your pocket. Followed by the largest American manufacturer of folding phones began to let the Koreans and Japanese. Moreover, the foldable seem attractive to developers and handheld computers - the latest models from Sony made in the folding (or more precisely - a convertible) packages. By the way, too, "palm-like" as Kyocera 7135. Yet the new machine - this is a smartphone. The lower part of the folding body is equipped with a standard telephone keypad - a set of numbered buttons. "Phone" button block is separated from the "computer" jog and color. Above are familiar to users of Palm `s four-button shortcut to key applications and Double-arm navigation button (vertical scrolling). Moreover, the navigation button is made larger and uneven. This little detail has attracted particular attention, as with each new model computers Palm (and clones) button design changes. That is, designers try to optimize the shape of the most frequently used buttons users. In this respect, life is easier for PC owners Sony CLIE - these typewriters button scrolling wheel duplicated Jog Dial, located on the lateral surface of the housing device. And what a Kyocera? Upon closer examination (photos, not the machine - alas) on the left side of the lower housing halves smartphone can distinguish three buttons. Mindful of the "telephone" the origin of the device, it can be assumed that this volume control the dynamics of the smartphone, and possibly push button voice recorder. Or the power switch .... Yes, the information is clearly not enough ... In the bottom left side of the body (on which the keyboard) is visible to the microphone slot. Accordingly, the speaker is located on the smartphone flip cover of the device - at the top and exactly in the middle. It remains to add that to the left end of the lower halves of the housing built massive short antenna, and the pen is left, that for "palm-like" devices used to it. Hold the phone in his right hand, the pen will have to push out of the slot index, rather than your thumb. Not very, I suppose, it is convenient ... The most interesting - in the upper body, the hinged lid. Namely - the screen. By the way, the screen in the new Kyocera divided into two halves. Graffiti area with the virtual desktop call buttons, menus and applications made ​​separately at the bottom of the hull and is located just above the "computer" buttons to the smartphone. This is a rectangular screen does not need color, so he probably made on the simplified (with respect to the main screen) technology - this time.The second - a separate screen of sensory input should have a positive impact on the longevity of the main screen. In principle, the decision if not revolutionary, it's very thoughtful and interesting. Indeed, dividing the screen into two parts, Palm has made a Graffiti on the surface of hinged cover (in computers - the bottom), and the device receives a completely new qualities. And if you increase the size of the sub screen, you will need a built-in keyboard? Great idea ... Daru. The main screen for the visual assessment is smaller than the Pocket PC Palm - we should not forget that we are dealing with a compact smartphone, not a PDA. But the color screen (capable of displaying 65,000 colors) and has a standard by the standards of handhelds resolution - 160x160 pixels. Coming vrehney part of the communicator guess the infrared transceiver ... and an additional phone display similar to the communicators based Pocket PC. In this case, the convenience of practical use of 7135 is difficult to overestimate. When folded, the secondary display can display information about the main modes of operation of the device - the battery, the level of received signal strength, operator name, and so on. Plus info on incoming calls and the mode of public address system (set alarm). Evaluate a new device to the eye - a thankless task. But here is a set of technical specifications. The amount of installed RAM - 16 megabytes. The scale of "palm-like" more than enough. But here an important addition - on the right side of casing installed slot Secure Digital (compatible with cards MMC, of ​​course) for memory cards and miniature peripherals, is exactly the same as all new PCs Palm. This similarities smartphone with the "parent" platform. But the distinctive features - the sound filling the new device. Manufactured specifically stipulates the ability of 7135 to play music to MP3 files via external stereotelefony that come as standard, have a built-in microphone and perform the functions of the headset hands-free. Sound capabilities Kyocera 7135 - an important appendage to the screen. Like colored computers Sony CLIE, a new smartphone makes attachable Palm organizer into a miniature multimedia console. Unlikely for someone to become a revelation the idea that a PDA is not acquired for use as an electronic organizer. If we had needed only a notebook and system events notification, we would have restricted a notebook with a connection to the PC. But this does not happen, and the majority of the owners of the CPC at its small cars playing, listening to music, view graphics. Incidentally, the Kyocera 7135 smartphone has a real chance to beat on all counts communicators based on the same Palm OS - the new Handspring Treo. Pay attention to the fundamental differences between these devices. Treo 180 keyboard wonderful machine, but as a phone to work with it will be harder than 7135. Fault in this, especially the keyboard. It is convenient to fill a small note, correct address book, but it is inconvenient to dial a telephone number. To dial, have to call the on-screen virtual keyboard and take aim at on-screen buttons stylus (or finger). Installed on the smartphone normal telephone keypad, which greatly increases the convenience to use it as a phone. At the same time, Kyocera is the usual on-screen keyboard and handwriting recognition Graffiti. Hand on heart, choosing the two machine devices for personal use, I would have preferred the 7135. For the Treo - is a computer with a reduced number of telephone complement, and 7135 - the phone with a full built-in computer. Continuing review of the hardware filling Kyocera, we note that the device is synchronized with a PC through a standard set of ports - serial bus and USB.That as the ROM is used in flash memory (can be relatively easily upgrade the operating system - used in the smartphone Palm OS 4.1). And it has a built-in digital recorder. On the recorder to be a bit "slow down" as to "palm-like" device is a novelty. No, Kyocera pioneer in this field. Palm `s with built-in recorders we've already met (same Sony). But as they have been used in traditional "field" conditions? How to work with tape recorders for today's most advanced computers of the family Pocket PC? Yes, and Psion 5mx, also equipped with a beautiful voice recorder, far away from them is gone. Pocket PC voice recorder - a plastic "brick" with a surprisingly awkward arrangement of the built-in microphone. Machine has to bring to your mouth (for confidential voice notes, and not for the solemn public recitation) and keep it in an unpleasant proximity to the sound source (to put it simply - after those records, you want to or not, but the screen has to wipe). In communicators and smartphones, the situation is better. Positioning of the microphone such that the device holding the same way as a normal phone. It is convenient to record your voice, it is convenient to listen to voice memos. Not for nothing, and having a cell phone and PDA, often use a three-minute "pominalnik" the first and almost did not include a two-hour recorder second - in any case, according to most computerized friends ... True, it is growing legs of the general problem smatfonov and communicator with touch-screen input. If you use them as phones can not avoid contact with the touchscreen ... And what happens when holding the smartphone between shoulder and ear - how we do it to a regular phone, when hands are full? What program interrupt an important conversation? Or whenever the computer will disable the force to normally talk on the phone? This is not a design flaw specific apparatus, it is common misfortune of the whole group of similar devices. Acquiring additional capabilities, we have something to compromise ... But on the Kyocera 7135, these sacrifices are minimal! A few words about the possibilities of this new smartphone, which we were not destined to soon ispoprobovat. Although, who knows? May live to CDMA2000 - cetey third generation, both lived up to the universal, the total distribution of GSM and up to the practical implementation of GPRS (not that cheap stuff, it seemed to me - any technology shows the true dignity only in practice). Speed ​​data transmission aside (it's obvious). We note only that by 7135 can be carried out a telephone conversation and download anything from the Internet simultaneously. How it might look like in real life - I have not the foggiest idea. Attach a couple of extra hands or ears. Or use the headset ... The latter looks prettier. Other business - a satellite positioning system a-GPS (Assisted GPS), built in 7135. But it does not work only with the server part is installed on the base station. In this case, Kyocera - just a terminal for obtaining information about their own position with the central database. It differs from conventional GPS so that the receiver of the device slug defective and can not operate without the aid of the basic GPS-receiver network. However, within the coverage area for the user it has no special meaning. And the pampering it, really. Want GPS - Enhance your computer (smartphone, PDA), corresponding to the card, now is not the problem. Or buy a separate device like a portable eTrex. As shown by the same practice, autonomous satellite GPS receivers work better than integrated systems. Actually, this applies not only GPS, and photographic equipment and tape recorders, and all other portable makeweights. Summing up review of the Kyocera 7135 smartphone, let me speak in the manner of Mr. Manilow. That would be a similar device, but a variant of GSM, so with support for GPRS, so in the short Cellular store. I do not know, I would resist, or even small sustained.By the way, the declared value smartphone should not exceed $ 500 (for such a "heaped" little things quite a bit). Yes, not here in Russia - they have ... It's always just see something beautiful, nice, so all they have. If only the conscience raped. The authors, translation:

Dell Axim X50v: correspondence dating

Today, the PDA market boasts several computer models from top manufacturers, with camym advanced to date, type of screen - display with a VGA-resolution. With a little belatedly, and Dell has released its first VGA-PDA - Axim X50v. Compact housing news is fraught with great possibilities. In addition to the gorgeous screen, the new Axim boasts a faster processor, a large amount of internal memory, two slots for expansion cards, and two wireless adapters. And, despite all these goodies, X50v proudly bears the banner of the most affordable of all VGA Pocket PC. We present you the review of Ed Hardy, editor of the site Brighthand.com, who happened to one of the first "talk" with this new product.

Screen

Dell Axim X50v has a nice VGA screen with a resolution of 640x480 pixels. Text and images look great on it even better than on my desktop. Screen is pretty bright, clearly visible from different angles. For comparison, bring a photo of both screens, made in complete darkness. It is noticeable that at the X50v screen a little brighter. And white is cleaner while at the HP iPAQ hx4700 white gives a yellowish tinge. But while the color of iPAQ look juicy.

HP iPAQ hx4700 (bottom) against the Dell Axim X50v

Display X50v boasts a high frame refresh rate. This is not surprising, because in the X50v uses integrated graphics processor Intel 2700G, designed to improve graphics and video. Complete with palm are two games for Pocket PC, made specifically for VGA. They look great. But, unfortunately, adding support for VGA screen in Windows Mobile 2003 SE, Microsoft did not provide its "fair" use. The fact that this screen displays up to four times more pixels than QVGA. In theory, this means that applications such as Pocket Internet Explorer should be placed on the screen are four times more information than previously. But realistically, this is not happening. Fonts and pictures, of course, now look much prettier, but the owner of the PDA can not fully rely on the benefits of VGA screen to display more information. Fortunately, at our disposal, there are special tools, "forcing" VGA screen work in "fair" mode. One of them, SE_VGA, after a soft reset install on your handheld now VGA resolution. True, the need to use a soft reset a few annoying, because you will not always want to work in this mode. However, for most purposes it fits perfectly. Here are just a text becomes too small and have to strain your eyes to read it. Program SE_VGA - a great thing, but it would be better if Microsoft has built support for an "honest» VGA to their OSes.

Appearance

I confess that when I first saw pictures Axim X50v, it was not at all impressed. But when the handheld fell into my hands, I have dramatically changed the opinion about its design. He really is beautiful. A long time since I have not seen such nice handheld device. Of course, this is not a series iPAQ h1900, but it still looks cool. Dimensions X50v is 118 mm in height, 72 mm in width and 15 mm in thickness. It is considerably smaller than the iPAQ hx4700, but then the screen it has less - 3.7 inches vs. the full 4-for hx4700.

Left to right: HP iPAQ hx4700, Dell Axim X50v and Dell Axim X30 High

Thanks ckruglennomu the bottom, X50v sits perfectly in your hand. Due to the small size of this PDA is quite comfortable fit in a pants pocket.

Performance

Like the iPAQ hx4700, X50v model is equipped with a 624 MHz processor and runs Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition. Greatly disappointed amount of RAM memory available to the user. Here he is only 62 MB (from 64 MB). I'm hoping for 128 MB as a Toshiba e800. Well at least that is our hero another 92 MB of ROM (from 128 MB) for storing data. This memory is nonvolatile, ie, the data in a sudden discharge of the battery will not be lost. To compare the Axim X50v with other handhelds, I used a test of Spb Benchmark. Tell me at once that I was very surprised with the results. In the test on graphics performance X50v received 489 points, which is two times less than that of hx4700. The idea is that having a graphics accelerator, X50v should be at the level of hx4700. For comparison, HP iPAQ h4150 graphical test got 3858 points. This, of course, due to the fact that this PDA is four times less pixels on the screen than the X50v. But I still hoped that the graphics accelerator new items somehow helps to compensate for this gap. While I have no explanation for such low results. While working X50v does not show the slightest "brake". I will try to find out from the developers of Spb Software House rightly assessed whether this PDA in their benchmark. Graphical test significantly reduced the total assessment Axim X50v, it was 1240 points against 1659 in PAQ hx4700. Not surprisingly, the test processor X50v has received very favorably - 2286. Roughly the same amount assessed "pebble" hx4700. In general, the handheld to be very stable. If there were any problems, it is only from applications developed by third-party firms. C benchmark results site Aximsite.com, however, is not much different from Ed Hardy, can be found here.

Wireless communication

As I noted earlier, X50v has built-in modules, Bluetooth 1.2 and Wi-Fi. This allows the wearer to be connected at any time by choosing a more convenient form of connection to wireless networks. At home, I opened a network of Wi-Fi, which is very happy. Now I can go online anywhere in the home, outdoors or at work. One of the options the previous Axim X30, which I coveted most was his great external Wi-Fi antenna. It provides greater range due to the access point. Deprived of a large antenna, X50v and lost about 10% range for the connection of Wi-Fi. But now it does not lag behind their "bezantennyh" brethren. With all the benefits of Wi-Fi, this standard does not provide me a constant connection when I'm on the road. If you keep it all the time included in the search for the nearest hotspot, you can quickly put the battery. But my cell phone can connect to Axim X50v, using Bluetooth. I specifically joined the contract with unlimited traffic and now use mobile phone as a wireless modem. However, Bluetooth will be useful for many other tasks - from writing text to orienteering. I've accumulated a bunch of different peripheral devices, including keyboard, mouse, headset and GPS receiver, which work fine with the new X50v. By the way, Dell X50v uses two communication modules simultaneously. I wrote most of this review, being connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth printing on the keyboard.

Card slots

Very pleased that the developers X50v could provide him with two kinds of slots for expansion cards - SD and Compact Flash. This gives the user maximum flexibility and opportunities for connecting peripheral devices and memory cards. For example, you can use a GPS receiver in the format of CompactFlash, and maps to keep it on an SD card. Another case worthy of mention was the place to be when I inserted a CompactFlash slot your old Ethernet adapter. With no driver card to identify and immediately earned a few seconds to connect to my network.

Software

It seems that for many of you Axim X50v definitely not be the first PDA in my life, so you are likely familiar with the standard software that comes bundled with every Pocket PC. Still, I did a little review. MS Office. Plain Pocket Office can open and edit Microsoft Word documents, PDAs, and Excel. But beware: Pocket version does not support many formatting elements that are used in desktop Offic'e, therefore, any opening will be removed from the file. PIM. One of the most important functions of the PDA is to store the daily schedule and personal contacts of the owner. Applications of this type are supplied with any Pocket PC, usually do well with those responsibilities. Synchronization with Microsoft Outlook on your PC. If you do not have Outlook, do not worry, X50v comes with a desktop version of Outlook 2002. Multimedia. I have already mentioned high-quality screen new X50v, which is great for watching videos. To this end, our hero has a preinstalled Windows Media Player 10 for Mobile. Recent version of this program supports the mechanism of copyright protection Digital Rights Management 10. This means that allows users to play music and videos purchased from the store CinemaNow, MusicMatch, and MLB.com. Continuing the multimedia theme, I note that the X50v has a speaker that sounds pretty good. Fortunately, unlike the X30, this constructive element is located in front and at the upper end, which is also very comfortable, put a standard headphone jack.

Buttons

Dell Axim X50v is equipped with a standard set of keys: four keys to quickly launch applications, five-way navigation button, also called the D-pad, a very convenient way to control games or PDAs. There is not enough that the handheld only the scroll wheel jog dial, which is usually placed on the left side on top. This place is occupied by two buttons, by default configured to enable and disable wireless module. They can easily be reprogrammed, for example, by moving - up and down. In addition, on the left side of the X50v has a switch, deactivating the buttons and touch screen, protecting them from being accidentally pressed.

Battery and battery life

Included with the X50v is a removable Li-Ion battery with very little for its power capacity of 1100 mAh, which did not fail to affect the battery life of PDAs. As expected, it is very small. In short, Dell has brought him to sacrifice a miniature size of your device. However, users still have the opportunity to extend the term of the X50v in the field, independently adjusting the processor speed and brightness. Thus, the full power of stone and with 50% backlight (all clearly visible), PDAs from Dell will run a little less than three hours compared with the same hx4700 with similar settings, who "live" about 6 hours. If, however, reduce the frequency of the processor to 208 MHz and install LED illumination to the minimum level, X50v will last for four hours. True, in such settings to play or watch the movie you are unlikely to succeed, but to work in Word, Excel, read or check e-mail - completely. As a way out Dell offers an optional battery with twice the staff - 2200 mAh, which can be purchased separately. Wi-Fi connection is turned off when the battery is about 25% charge, and the Bluetooth works up to full discharge.

Supplied

New Axim comes with a proprietary cradle, which allows simultaneously charging itself PDA and spare battery. Stylus with this machine pretty slim. Personally, I do not really like these. Furthermore, complete with X50v will ship carrying case, which I have not had since I've been testing a pre-sale model. However, we can expect that it will not differ greatly from the cases for Axim X3/X30.

Cost

Dell is famous for the fact that he can quickly bring down the price of any product. So now, fancy Axim X50v can be purchased for $ 499 (estimated price in the U.S.. - Ed.), Which is $ 150 less than the iPAQ hx4700. But between these models, there are serious differences. Due to the smaller screen X50v obtain a compact (3.7 "to 4" at the iPAQ). HP hx4700 features a unique touchpad and a more serious battery with 1800 mAh. So you should seriously weigh the pros and cons of each model if you are going to get a VGA-machine. In any case, Axim X50v - PDA alone, definitely not the losing contestants on functionality.

Pros:
• excellent 3.7 "VGA screen
• Dual slot CF / SD
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• 624 MHz processor
• Intel 2700G graphics accelerator
• 2 VGA toys included

Cons:
• among additional software alone trialniki, there is no full version
• a small battery.

Sources, Materials:

PalmOne Tungsten T5: performance on the move

palmOne Tungsten T5 - another brainchild of the producer deserved PDA - the model is just as controversial, however much awaited. I must say that on the palmOne Tungsten T5, released almost simultaneously with the release of a series of next-generation handheld Pocket PC, the platform advocates pinned great hopes, which, unfortunately, is not quite true. Of course, we can not say that the beloved producer greatly disappoint them, but the revolution in the PDA structure, which for so long talked-dreamed of users who do not cluchilos. In front of us until all the same OSes Garnet (in some form refreshed), familiar design, improved technical specifications, well-chosen set of software and a few unusual organization of memory, which became the main fichey Tungsten T5. We present you the review of the PDA.

Design palmOne Tungsten T5

Externally, the new Pocket PC is strongly reminiscent of palmOne Tungsten E, which confirms originally appeared in the online rumors about the upcoming Tungsten E2. On the relationship of a series of palmOne Tungsten T, in turn, recalled only the big screen. At this superficial similarity ends there. Slider that causes the most contradictory feelings among the users anymore. Due to the removal of this structural element, PDA a little "grown up" in length (7 mm compared to the Tungsten E). Width and thickness are practically unchanged. In addition, due to increased size machine potyazhelela on frivolous 14 grams. In general, compared to the Tungsten E, minor design changes. The body is made of the same plastic. Remain unchanged and controls. It's D-Pad and four reprogrammable hardware buttons. And, on the first button (with the image of the house) standard can "hang" only two applications - Applications and Favorites Selecting applications for the remaining three buttons - much richer. On the top panel is a slot for SD / MMC card with support for SDIO, so you can use peripherals that format. There are infrared port, headphone jack and power button. But not a single indicator light is not.As in all recent models of palmOne, the lateral ends totally exempt from controls. On the right is available only to the stylus holder. On the left - attachment to the protective cover. If you remove the stylus and try to take your computer in your hand, the thumb or other fingers (depending on where in your hand you hold the device) will rest against the sharp edge of the pencil box, sensation - not a pleasant one. Perot Tungsten T5 is absolutely similar to that used in the Tungsten E. It is all-metal with Teflon tip and twist-off plastic cap, which is a thin plastic needle to press the reset button. Reset button - on the back panel, next to the speaker. In addition, the updated interface connector. This is not mini USB, as the Tungsten E. And not a standard symmetrical Palm Connector, as a Tungsten T3. Connector was strongly reminiscent of the interface port on your mobile phone SonyEricsson. It is divided into two parts - a comb of contacts designed to transmit data, the second - to power the device. By jack can be connected to a special adapter with a USB cable. In the adapter provides connector for AC adapter and the hardware button synchronization. As you may recall, on the cradle palmOne has most of the first series has always attended such a button. So to reprogram one of the PDA hardware buttons for launching HotSync is not necessary. The power adapter can be connected directly to the interface connector, however, did not succeed podcoedinit USB cable. On the other hand, if you only need to charge the battery, you will not have to carry a sync cable. Upset about the lack of built-in voice recorder. It is a pity, because for business people or, for example, journalists recorder - irreplaceable thing. PalmOne decision not to embed the recorder in Palm Tungsten T5 has caused some serious debate in the forums and actually rejection users.

Complete Tungsten T5

Many believe that the package, which sold a PDA, has absolutely no value. Whether it's a cheap plastic blister or Mighty durable cardboard.Nevertheless, the box - this is the first impression of the product. In his "briefcase" Tungsten T5 looks solid and enjoyable, as befits a product of this level. Fortunately, the box failed due the quality of cardboard. Inside the box you can find the AC adapter, interface cable with an adapter, protective cover, two CDs with software (one for Mac, the second for Windows), lots of declarations, stickers and graffiti warranty. Protective cover similar to those that were on the Palm-oh 500 series. Mounted it on the right sidebar and special inconveniences in work does not deliver. At least, with its direct functions (display protection from mechanical damage and contamination), it copes well - PDA may be safely worn in the pocket of a suit. However, I can not say that the T5 cap has fallen to my liking. It looks a bit serious, is pressed against the display is not full, then it strives to unfold. Besides, with a small external pressure, the stress immediately transferred to the body so that you can accidentally press the hardware button. Much more convenient and more sensible it would probably realize a small latching mechanism, such as the HP iPAQ hx4700. Those for whom the structural reliability protective cover crucial, can be purchased separately aluminum case, which will serve a good service. Moderately strong, fairly compact and easy to measure - just what is needed for users with active lifestyles. However, with the task of protecting the CCP, I think, normally cope and the usual leather case, sewn from third parties, for example, Xigma or Krusell.

Iron fillings palmOne Tungsten T5

Processor

Remember the song "... and instead of a heart flaming engine ..."? So this is not about domestic aviation, but about a new processor palmOne Tungsten T5. The developers decided to provide the CPC one of the most modern at the moment of processors for mobile devices - Intel PXA270 clocked at 416 MHz. About how much is good, a little later.

Memory

Internal memory - is a separate matter of pride developers. Firstly, its a lot - 256 MB, of which 215 MB user available. Secondly, it is completely non-volatile, that is not in the drive SDRAM chips. But it's not ROM in its pure sense, since the memory performs the functions of RAM and features a flash drive. Engineers from palmOne gave her the name of Flash RAM (made on the basis of technology NAND Flash), that is a nonvolatile rewritable RAM. Simply speaking, you need not worry that the battery on your PDA have been charged at all times - the data is not lost even in a fully discharged typewriter. In addition, several lower power, because they do not need to update the state of RAM, as in most other PDAs.Conventionally, the memory is divided into two unequal parts - 161.2 MB and 63.8 MB. A smaller part is used in the same capacity, which had been involved in the memory of earlier models, but only for the storage of installed programs and data. Moreover, 10 MB of it removes the needs of the operating system. Much is known as "internal" and serves as a flash drive. These 161 MB can be used as an ordinary USB flash drive. Enough to switch the handheld into a special mode and drive mode cinhronizirovat with your desktop PC, and with the internal memory can be operated with the usual additional removable drive. Flick of the wrist Palm turns into an elegant (but rather cumbersome) USB flash drive. And if at this point in your Pocket PC is an SD card, then it will appear as additional drive. Speed, however, leaves much to be desired: USB 1.1 - it's still not USB 2.0. I'm sure many of you have already calculated that 161.2 MB 63.8 MB = 225 MB, but not 256 MB. The question arises: where are the remaining 31 MB? It's very simple. These same 31 MB are reserved for the work area (the so-called Heap), which serves to temporarily store applications and data during their execution. Decent size Heap area allows, for example, painlessly opening volume office documents and load large pages in the browser.

Communication

A computer equipped with wireless Bluetooth Class 1.1, which allows you to connect to other devices that connect to the Internet (using, for example, a mobile phone with features GPRS), check e-mail messages, conduct wireless synchronization with your desktop computer, etc. Computer pretty quickly "discovered" mobile phone SonyEricsson T630. True, the list of identifiable devices T630 model is not there, but when choosing T610 no connection problems have arisen. The only perhaps disadvantage is the inability (with built-in Bluetooth Manager) cross Tungsten T5 with a Pocket PC computer. For example, iPAQ H1940 his finds, but connect the data exchange can not, because it can not find appropriate services. Sorry. To exchange data had to be used as an intermediate carrier laptop. Another omission palmOne engineers regarding kommmunikatsionnyh features new items - no built-in Wi-Fi. However, the developers justify by the fact that to achieve the desired functionality by simply acquiring the WLAN transmitter separately on SD-card, but, first, a slot usually occupied by a corresponding expansion card memory, and, secondly, the integrated solution is always more convenient and efficient than separately purchased peripherals.

Display

High-resolution screen for the "top" models of family palmOne has long since become standard. Is no exception and the new palmOne Tungsten T5. T5 has a diagonal matrix 3.9 "- at the latest VGA Pocket PC, but inferior to the number of points in 2 times (320 to 480 against with 480 by 640 pixels).According to the magazine "Consumer: computers and software, which has developed a special technique for measuring the quality of the original displays, handheld computers, the maximum brightness of the display palmOne Tungsten T5 is 182 cd/m2 - is one of the most brilliant displays of PDAs on the market. The brightness of one of the latest Pocket PC PDAs - HP iPAQ h4700 costavlyala total of 150 cd/m2 and a maximum brightness of the display T3 was generally more than 2 times lower than - 77 cd/m2. Minimum level of brightness T5 - 62 cd/m2. As with all the latest models from palmOne highlighting ways staff can not turn off. The minimum level of brightness, in turn, greatly overstated. Normal matrices for handheld computers is considered a value of about 10-20 cd/m2, the magnitude of 35-40 cd/m2 - this is a sufficiently high level, and 62 cd/m2 - heavily overvalued rate. That there is something to compare, is such an example. The fact that the T5 is called the minimum brightness, a younger model Zire 31 is the maximum. So overvalued minimum backlight level - a significant disadvantage for two reasons. First, it reduces battery life. For the normal perception of the text would have sufficed 1910 cd/m2 brightness at a T5 would be spent on 20-40% longer than sixfold unrealistically high numbers. Secondly, too bright matrix interferes with comfortable perception of information (reading, watching videos) in complete darkness. Quickly tired eyes, and indeed there is a risk to plant a vision. Therefore, lovers of night reading we recommend include additional light sources, at least a table lamp or floor lamp. However, in the presence of background lighting shortcomings of high brightness backlight leveled. Accordingly, when reading in office lighting or in the subway for the eyes can not particularly worried. Already at the lowest level illumination the contrast reaches 1:60, which is more than enough for comfortable perception of information from the display in almost any lighting conditions, apart from direct sunlight. Outdoors (bright sunny day) can only read the text on the maximum level of illumination (1:5). Comfortable working in this mode, however, can not be called as required for the normal perception of the contrast does not lower than 1:8. Adjust the brightness via status bar (for details - just below). Brightness switch has 28 positions, almost as much at T3. The only drawback - the inability to switch the backlight levels using hardware buttons. Also a little upset at the lack of brightness adjustment of a scale, which is why it seems that the adjustment is continuous. However, it is not so, setting up a discrete, but to understand at what level it is, we can only roughly.

Lock hardware buttons

In the Tungsten T5, as well as in T3 provides the function of locking hardware buttons. The menu Prefs / keylock implemented a choice type of lock - never, "automatically" (as soon turn off the computer) and in manual mode. " In manual mode, blocking is enabled by holding the power button for 2 seconds. After that, the CPC will not respond to keystrokes. To unlock it, you will have to press the power button and confirm the release of the lock by pressing keys on the display.

Runtime

Charging time the computer is approximately 2.5 - 3 hours. Unfortunately, as with T3 at our hero is no light indication of the charging process and the degree battery charge. The only way to find out how fed battery, and, in general, whether charging - is to include PDA and select the icon with the clock in the Status Bar. It shows battery level and status (charged or not).Battery life was measured by a standard technique in several modes:

• in read mode program MobiPocket Reader with automatic scrolling speeds 26-28 characters per second
• during playback of mp3 files from internal memory program RealOne Player (display off)
• a video playback program Kinoma Player (320x320) test movie with a flow 640Kbit / s of memory

While working in all modes was measured before the first warning. According to the charging indicator, the first warning of low battery comes with 10% residual capacity. The results were as follows. Work in read mode depletes the battery for 4 hours and 25 minutes at maximum illumination, or for 6 hours with a minimum illumination. Playing video lasts 5 hours at maximum illumination of up to 7 hours on low. MP3 playback can last about 8 hours. If we compare our hero with their predecessors (T2, T3, Tungsten E and Zire 72), the runtime PDA demonstrates quite decent, but against the new Pocket PC handheld from the top looks like palmOne palely. For example, the flagship of HP - iPAQ hx4700 - capable of playing MP3 music and 16 hours, that is two times longer than the T5.

Performance

In recent years a tendency to equalize the technical characteristics of the family computers, Palm and Pocket PC. Of course, full equality yet. Processors with a frequency of 512 MHz and 624 MHz Palm OS handhelds is not used, but the PXA270 with 416 MHz already taken on board. A memory? 256 MB - a very decent size. Communication opportunities are also almost the same level, if we forget about the lack of T5 Wi-Fi-module. The reality is that the mere listing of technical parameters of a modern PDA is not enough to determine its capabilities, capacity and ease of use. Fundamental differences, of course, hidden in the operating system. Unfortunately, the universal means to adequately compare computers with different operating systems yet. The results of benchmarks can be guided only in one of the families of the CCP. Interspecies comparison is possible only in highly subjective form. Tungsten T5 slightly faster than the T3 (6%), 1,6 times more powerful than the Sony TJ27 and 2.6 times more productive compared to the Tungsten E. Subjectively, we can say that no significant "brakes" when the computer is not observed - not working with PIM applications, or when working with documents or video playback. Productivity at work was measured with a video already have become the standard method of using the built-in Kinoma Player test. The results are very, very decent - at the level Tungsten C. At least 30% faster than the T3, and almost two times faster than that of T2.

Software palmOne Tungsten T5

Embedded applications

Operating System for Tungsten T5 and the old and new simultaneously. More precisely, it is the same Palm OS 5, as with all PDAs, released by palmOne in the last 1,5 years. Differs only version - Palm OS 5.4.5. However, from the previous edition 5.4.5 is not only a serial number. Changed set of software, stitched in memory, and were ground has previously used techniques and components. Thus, among the major programs Tungsten T5:

• Quick Tour
• Calc 1.0
• Calendar 1.2
• Contacts 1.2
• Dialer 2.0.1
• Documents-to-go 7.000 (806)
• Drive Mode
• Expense 4.5.1P

• Favorites 1.0 - a program to create your own Application launcher. You have four tabs, each of which has 8 fields.

Each cell can assign your own name and assign the application.

• Files 1.0 - a complete file manager with "older" features.

With it you can not only view the data files, but launch the program. For known file types (if you select a file) will automatically launch the appropriate application. If you select a file with a digital photo, then activates the program Media, if the MP3, then RealPlayer, etc. And, finally realized Tap-n-Hold principle of file operations. If you hold the stylus on the file, then the result will be a familiar menu, file management, which includes items "rename", "Open with ..." etc.

• Memos 1.2
• Note Pad 2.3
• SMS 4.5.1P
• Tasks 1.2
• Word Clock 2.0.

Ranked Among the communication programs are present:

• Bluetooth - a wireless software settings, the Bluetooth adapter
• Versa Mail 2.7.1

• palmOne Blazer 4.0 - Internet browser with a familiar user interface of Windows Internet Explorer. There are buttons Back, Forward, Refresh, Home, History and Bookmarks.

This browser supports the technology and formats: HTML 4.01, xHTML 1.0, cHTML, WML 1.3, SSL 3.0, HTTP 1.1, JavaScript 1.5, CSS 1.0 and 2.0 (partial), GIF (including animated), JPEG, PNG, BMP, Cookies. Of the multimedia software from T5 Immersed:

• RealOne Player 1.6.0 - program for listening to audio

• Media 2.00.50 - for watching video and digital images. In addition, the application allows you to sort the images, organize them into albums, copy, straighten on Bluetooth, SMS or email and make the images of graphic notes.

System and utilities:

• Card Info 4.5.1P
• HotSync 5.0P
• Preferences 1.4
• AddIt (bluefish 3.59) - find and download applications from the network.

As with the Tungsten T3, PIM applications "fifth" can directly sync with the program Outlook (can not praise palmOne for attention to multi-million users of the program), and about Palm Desktop willing (or rather unwilling) can now be forgotten. Need only install the program Microsoft Outlook Conduits with supplied with a PDA disk. As far as a powerful office suite, Documents-to-go 7, then he is now "sewn" by default.

Additional programs

Peruse installed on a desktop computer software:

• palmOne Desktop 4.1
• File Transfer
• Microsoft Outlook Conduit
• Quick Install
• DataViz Document To Go Desktop
• RealPlayer Desktop
• Web link to Audible

Additional software installed on the PDA:

• Phone Link Updater
• DataViz Document To Go Conduit
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• eReader
• Solitaire
• Web link to VPN
• Web link to Websphere Everyplace Micro Environment
• AOL Mail access software.

Status Bar

Innovation of this control can not be named. Status Bar for the first time appeared at the Tungsten T3. It is a line that is located at the bottom of the screen (like a desktop system tray), consisting of icons most frequently used applications on your computer.

• Home - this button to call the application list, press again which starts the Favorite. Long-term retention of the icons is a list of six recently run applications.

• Find - a standard search function.

• Menu - Call menu in the application.
• Clock - system information.

This window shows a lot of useful information: battery level (in percentage), status (plugged in or not), free volume only internal memory (also in percentage), backlight brightness control, sound mode selection.

• Attention Manager - Manager reminder, here is information on all the reminders that can be done in the standard PIM applications (Calendar, Note Pad, Tasks), the program Word Clock.
• Bluetooth - Call Manager Bluetooth.
• Full Screen Wright - mode handwriting in any area of ​​the display. True, when you enter must comply with entry rules, as usual Graffiti 2. Need to mentally divide the screen into two parts by a vertical bar. In the right pane, you can enter numbers on the left - the capital letters, on the border of two areas - capital letters. Moreover, the same principles I work and landscape display.

• Rotate Screen - switch to landscape and portrait mode display orientation.

• Input - display the input area.

If you hold the stylus on this icon for a second, then a list of virtual input panel (classic graffiti, graffiti with three zones, and keyboard). Because of the presence of a permanent status bar the actual display area is the size of 320h448, not 320x480.

Price and buy palmOne Tungsten T5

The network of shops "computer in the palm" palmOne Tungsten T5 can be purchased for $ 399. Despite improvements in the technical parameters of handhelds from this manufacturer, their initial cost depends on positioning. Recall that the ex-flagship palmOne Tungsten T2 and T3 also began their way to the market price at $ 399.

Results

Cons

• a strongly overvalued minimum backlight
• lack of Wi-Fi
• no voice recorder
• inconvenient design lid
• not very good stylus holder.

Pluses

• High-quality display with a resolution of 320x480
• Built-in Bluetooth Adapter
• high performance
• large amount of internal memory
• the whole internal memory - volatile
• the possibility of using the computer as a USB drive
• availability of hardware button HotSync
• low cost
• synchronization with MS Outlook or Palm Desktop for choice.

The main competitors palmOne handhelds on the market have always been handhelds from Sony and representatives of the camp competitors, Pocket PC. This year, Sony withdrew from the PDA market, and only by inertia holds 9% of the total pie. PalmOne company has currently a third of all users of handheld computers for several losing conglomerate Pocket PC. For all the seeming backwardness of the technical parameters of products from palmOne direct competitors, of course, that part of its audience the company to maintain and increase. It is safe to say that the share of tangible user techniques for working with Palm OS PDA closer and clearer than with the Pocket PC. Unlike last palmovye less universal, but seriously sharpened by the particular solution of problems. The authors, translation: