Vendors do not think about Russia

On the PDA market in Russia, about how personal digital assistants (PDAs) will evolve in the future and the problems that arise with them in Russia, we talk to the director of "MakTsentr Dmitry Havzhu. Yuri Sakun: What is the structure of sales of pocket PCs in Russia? Dmitry Havzhu: Our findings are as follows: PalmOS - 65%, PocketPC - 22%, WindowsCE - 3%, Psion - 10%. Structure of sales of handhelds in Russia is very similar to the average picture, which shows the IDC, however, there are some differences. Firstly, the share of Palm OS in Russia a little less European and American. Although I do not believe those figures in sales Palm, which lead to the U.S. - 75-80%. This estimate seems very high. The second difference is the Russian market - the structure of niches PocketPC, besklaviaturny PC. In fact, in America, pretty much sold iPaq Pocket PC company Compaq - their sales significantly overlap the sale of Cassiopeia. Noticeable Hewlett Packard with its Jornada 545/548. In Russia the opposite situation - iPaq computers sold very little, HP is not at all. The fact that Compaq officially imported to Russia, only one batch of these devices, about twenty pieces. Everything else - is "gray" delivery. But dealers are not interested, because the supply of "gray" channels too small, the conditions - not interesting, there are problems with maintaining the equipment. Unlike Casio Compaq position is quite active. The company has representation, which also deals with handheld computers, and therefore Casio PDA for sale in Russia quite a lot. JS: By the way, on the iPaq: I saw an example in which almost the entire Russian representative office of one of the firms was equipped iPaq ... DH: I do not know any other company in Russia, except for Microsoft, which would have worked on the iPaq. JS: A demand for iPaq is? DH: Yes, quite high. Despite the fact that the iPaq (Model 3630 and 3650) - pretty whimsical and often break the machine. The failure rate - 27%, ie more than every fourth owner of the PDA iPaq appealed to the service. JS: And what's the problem? JH: Problems of three. First, sometimes the iPaq comes off the inner loop, because of what the image on the screen becomes a mirror. The second problem relates to the design of the screen: the iPaq matrix is ​​separated from the shield thin air layer, which sometimes hits the dust. Mote looks like a broken pixel. Pull the speck out impossible, Compaq also has not yet figured out how to solve this problem. And when the user accesses this problem in the service, he usually says that did not need to use a computer in a dusty room. Other problems - with buttons and snaps the stylus (if you accidentally insert the stylus is not so, as expected, then the stylus latch is broken). In general, the demand for iPaq is, even despite the fact that today it is - the most problematic car. YS: How Well then demand? DH: First of all, the iPaq screen is totally unique: it has only a PDA, which can operate in direct sunlight. On the screens of other computers with nothing to be seen. Secondly, Compaq - a brand that is appreciated by many. JS: In your opinion, what is now the most successful model of the PDA market? DH: It depends on what class of devices considered. If we talk about the Pocket PC, the most successful, in my view, the model - Cassiopeia E-125 and more stylish, EM-500. They are in sufficient quantity supplied to Russia, and they are quite popular. Unfortunately, according to unofficial information, Casio is going to curtail the production of E-125. This affects the supply in Russia: an application in March-May for the supply of PDA from Russian suppliers have been satisfied with just 10 percent. JS: If we talk not about the absolute figures of sales of pocket PCs, and on the dynamics, then how big the increase in the PDA market? DH: The market is very dynamic. Sales volumes are growing at 80-90% per year. Although it is clear that this dynamics is only possible when initially small volumes of sales and eventually sales growth rates drop.JS: Who is the buyer of handheld computers? DH: We ourselves are very interesting. From time to time we conduct a study to clarify this issue. Typically, handheld computers are not buying as much for themselves, "how much for a business to use them in their work. But users are buying them for ourselves, not by companies. Corporate buyers slightly, the share of corporate sales do not exceed 10%. If you look at this issue from the perspective of sex buyers, the buyers are more men than women. JS: Can we now create a PDA-based mobile office? DH: It depends on what to keep in mind a mobile office. If you invest in this concept is the possibility of normal operation with the text and table documents, databases and presentations, the ability to connect to the LAN, then, in my opinion, better focus not on the handheld computer and a laptop. PDAs more convenient to use as an adjunct to a desktop or laptop computer for quick access and editing of information transferred there, as well as for solving a class of other special tasks in this example is clearly visible difference in the approaches vendor to the creation of handheld computers. One professed manufacturers of devices such as Palm, another - manufacturers of PDAs based on Windows CE. The former believe that the CPC needs only the simplest and most necessary human services: address-phone book, notepad, email etc., but they should work flawlessly. What makes Microsoft a part of Pocket PC, differs fundamentally from this approach: the Pocket PC is literally all that there is a "big" computers, all that is needed for "cruising" the business. These computers, in theory, should be totally replaced by a man and a laptop in part - a desktop computer. In fact, the PDA is not always a good thing. But many buyers believe that this approach is better - if the device offers more services and greater opportunities, so it is better. Often, however, many experienced users, having worked for some time with the Pocket PC, go back to Palm: they understand that more important - comfortable work and quality execution of multiple services. JS: And what is the idea, in your opinion, is more promising? Which of them as a result will win? DH: I think they will live together. But I am closer to the idea of ​​Palm, PDA focused when only the most necessary functions, everything else handed to other devices. The most beautiful, this idea will be implemented shortly, will come when Palm'y with an expansion slot where you can insert anything you want: the MP-player, and a modem and other devices. YS: What is missing from modern PDA? DH: Of course, modern PDAs are not enough modules exchange information with each other by radio. Bluetooth or something like that. If this option appears, it will transfer all of the platforms to a new level. And of course, virtually all manufacturers of PDAs are working on implementing a wireless network access. The one who can do it better and faster, can count on the leadership. JS: In the future there will be several platforms for PDA or will a single standard? DH: I think there will be several platforms. Only the distribution between them in the market change. Proportion of Pocket PC will increase, and Palm - reduced, albeit marginally, PalmOS in the foreseeable future will dominate. As regards the distribution between vendors Palm OS devices, now working here are basically three companies: Palm, Handspring and Sony. In Palm now - about 75% of the market, but the intention is to oust klonmeykerov Palm. The situation in Russia with Handspring is not entirely clear, but Sony has even officially in Russia does not supply its handheld computers (and other computer products). And in Europe, Sony officially announced its PDAs. YS: The Russification no problem? DH: The main problem is that no one vendor does not take into account in their designs that they will use in Russia. In connection with these developers Russifiers have to spend quite a lot of effort to ensure that Russify PDA coming to Russia. This area of ​​development has become quite competitive and is now on every platform there is some good quality software localization.YS: Softonic sold separately? If I had brought some PDAs, say, from the U.S., what should I do? DH: For the Palm and other PalmOS devices can purchase from us for $ 30 package "Russian Palm", which includes the crack and a set of akssessuarov to facilitate the life of Russian users: a table with "graffiti" sticker on a keyboard with Russian letters and Silky Board - an original development of the Russian firm SoftAVA, virtual keyboard, which is glued not to the working of the screen, Palm, and the one where the icons are placed, causing a variety of programs. In addition, the disk placed over a dozen other useful programs. This package - our breakthrough, it significantly helps us in promoting the platform. As for other platforms of Russification, the situation was. For EPOC32, there are two good commercial localization: "Elbrus" - our development, and "Everest" from Paragon. Our name has appeared before, but in the "Paragon" decided that their crack should be addressed to a high mountain and named it "Mount Everest". These products, according to independent experts, are very similar in function, serious arguments in favor of this or not, moreover, that our support normal printing on all popular printers. Approximately the same situation with the Russification of Pocket PC, there are competing programs from the company - "Paragon" and "FizTehSoft. We distribute both. The authors, translation:

Valery Babanov now knows the measure

Rather, they have recently met. Icy, unapproachable, he surrendered the fortress, opened on 10 minutes, stone embrace. True, not even allowed to bring a camera to film it in a moment of weakness ... "6310 m" - growled the altimeter on the clock. Valery stood on the highest point of the peak. To the right preparing to attack the black clouds of snow, the sun shone on the left - and no nails! ... "Mountain - a kind of active meditation, or purification through physical hardship, - but hardly our hero, purified and enlightened, in those moments was aware of it. The goal was achieved. All thoughts, limiting concentration on the route retreated, giving the place of weariness. He stood there, got in touch with a partner, Igor, who was on duty in high-altitude base camp somewhere very bottom at around 4000 m and blurted out the good news: - I'll try to get closer to the precipice, so that you could see me! - Do not do it! - I still really want to look down the cliff! - DO NOT! .. Valery Babanov: The camera was just below 150 meters from the top of the peak. As I stood at the top, I really wanted to shoot a few frames. Finally! I'm here! But then some inner voice, intuition (the voice of God! ") Prompted me:" Do not get down now! ". If you go, then the back has not come back. Gore seemed opened to me a few minutes of the corridor and allowed to stay on it for a while ... very short time. According to legend shark fins, leading to the peak of Meru - a road to the Center of the Universe. Over the past few years there have been about 15 attempts to reach the coveted top, but they all failed. Only a famous American climber Peter Takeda tried "ride" Shark's fin is threefold: the last one was this spring (at the same time and Valeri was doing his first attempt), but the mountain once again did not let him. More than three attempts will not put. Takeda and tried to forget about it. VB: We sent him a letter as soon as I descended. It has been almost two weeks. So far, no response from Peter, even though we where with him and his partner this spring with storm peak, very good friends. Perhaps only one could "miss" measure. But all these expeditions - there were so many. Some tried to take it one fell swoop, while others starve. But all as a result of retreating. Every time climbed to 4 - 6 people ... And it could take, as I now think of only one. Valery, of course, did not say "elected". But it turns out he is elected. Work on the route of such complexity requires unfathomable to the average person a concentration, perseverance and, necessarily, a great experience. We must live in the mountains, to own such a technique of movement, so to feel them to be able to talk to them. He spent 25 years of his 36, "working routes. His "experience, the son of hard errors" had been raised and brought up 200 expeditions. VB: Of course, I became a solo climber at once, somehow gradually came to this. The fact that the team I do not feel too comfortable, I do not have freedom of decisions and actions, I can not improvise on the fly. And then somehow I got used to count only on themselves. In my opinion, it is quite logical. Itself, one can predict itself can be trusted or not trusted in certain situations. In the team scheme is much more complicated. Olga Gorbonosova (HPCru): So you actually simpler and easier to work on one route? VB: Of course, otherwise I would have been the man command. OG: This time it's easier dalas this mountain? VB: That's not to say. Generally, the bigger the mountain, so it is more expensive. In all senses: the harder given, and the more expensive it cost to rent a corridor on her. OG: So you paid for each meter? VB: No, of course. If the mountain in India is higher than 6500 m, it is more expensive.My top came up under this tariff. She was a little lower. At least according to my measurements. By my watch. OG: Is it possible to believe in your watch? VB: And why not? We have already checked them in France, and they have not sinned. Valerín hand decorated with smart watches Protrek, gigantic size, given to him by the French association of mountain sports, where he works as a coach. It seems that they can settle the cuckoo !:-)) What they just do not know how and what properties does not only possess, except that the coffee is brewed !:-)) Most of Valerín route ran along the ridge. VB: I went to the back side of the mountain wall, two meters away from the comb, and if you draw a route on this picture, it will be dashed. :-) The place to which I got, not entirely a high point. The highest - it snow cornice, it was up to five meters. If it stand, it could collapse. Where I stood, was not visible base of the mountain, the wall slowly go down somewhere in the distance gleamed Glacier, 2 miles below me. And I wanted to Igor saw me on top and was headed to show off the ledge. But he was dissuaded, saying that the ledge could collapse, and the Spaniards I've seen. At this time the measure intended to storm still two whole expedition Spanish and Japanese. Valery had arrived, and perhaps this fact as the highest impact on the decision to allow the Office of the heavenly possessed by the idea of holy svyatyhJ. During the ascent the weather was unusually nice and warning. VB: On the ascent took me 6 days. During this period, I almost did not rest, except sleep, and slept little, began to operate the route at night, hours are 3-4, so we have a long throws. Afternoon light your support. If you start in the morning, then finish the evening for sure. Can not see anything, tired. At night, the weather is more stable. But the cold and scary, shoes like tin cans on your feet hang peremorozhennye ... Valera bit stingy on the words and a very benevolent at the same time, so we must try to grasp his thinking on the fly. Sometimes you catch ... This man is damn infectious and somehow child-like laugh. Adult child who is not afraid to dream. Himself a magician. For the type of fragile, low, but the extraordinary strength lives in his trained body. And still he needed the insurance, the feeling, if not firmly under their feet, then to the outside world. At least on the radio. Need to have someone waiting at the bottom. This time - partner Igor, in the past - his wife, Olga. And, of course, letters from home. VB: Igor gave them to me directly by radio. For all 6 days I have been in touch with Igor. The day came during the ascent of 2-3 letters. As a rule, from the closest people. During my recovery Kaskiv not only supported me in a moral sense, getting my mail, but my companion. He has a strong toothache, he was tired of the order of seats in the camp in a tent and had already begun to ask home, suddenly found himself a pleasure. Toys on the Pocket PC. At this time, before climbing high-altitude base camp visited HPCru correspondent Andrey Kuznetsov, who debug the PDA, so much so that he began to regularly take even a remote mail. In addition, Andrew has brought a solar panel, which quickly managed to feed the voracious color handheld. Good, and the weather was sunny, very convenient for feeding :-). O.G.: The last time the Americans you were named Russian James Bond for such technical equipment of the expedition, as well as this time responded to the handheld computer and satellite phone Spanish and Japanese climbers? VB: Well, most of all, of course, surprised the Japanese. Especially because they have something other than the receiver was nothing. Two days later they came to me to send mail and receive letters from home and very happy this opportunity, and then we went on the routes. OG: And you had the feeling that all will turn out? VB: Yes, of course. I've programmed yourself for success. Firstly, to calculate precisely the time that I needed, changed the route. Yes, indeed for the very top, not the route I'm doing it. Painfully attractive and difficult it is! She draws you like, makes up for it. And then on top of one was not. But the way to the top seem easier than it really is. Knowingly array measure called the center of the universe. While Shamballa I did not find :-)). OG: And to us at the last your letter seemed to have found ... :-)) VB: Just me overwhelmed emotions, feelings. I re-lived all the climbing. When the top 200 meters left, I remembered that I forgot the camera in a backpack, but decided not to return. I had a feeling that I came to clean the mountain, and must be absolutely clean. Two kilometers from Meru were black clouds. It seemed to me that they seem frozen, missing me, so time to return was not. I overcame a 15-minute firn slope and ended up on top ... ... Valery stayed on top in just 10 minutes. Not more - not less. He again some inner flair caught the moment when we should leave. The audience was over. No sooner had he a little satellite, as the sun disappeared, and one after another ran the clouds, forming a black canopy over the crown of the measure. Gore was tired of his visitor, she was going to sleep ... Yes, and the day was coming to an end and our hero had time to reach his home - a small mobile platform, left at the bottom. The next day, Valery was already in high-altitude base camp with his friend and wrote us the latest on this expedition letter ... VB: first sat down to write out of duty, but then got so carried away as if anew all survived. It was very important to my friends learned everything as quickly as possible on myself, I was eager to record all his experiences right there on the spot, at the foot of Meru. I already knew it, I saw a neighborhood with its top part of my soul will always remain with her. When Valery wrote a final letter, he discovered that the screen is Kaskiv few suffered from emotional injuries from the stylus. At the bottom clearly look through the point-target, the appropriate shaped as letters virutalnoy keyboard, so much so that you can blindly, with the screen off, learn to type on it :-). The authors, translation:

Closing Remarks: New products from Casio

Yesterday the company and the company MakTsentr Sasio Computer held a joint press conference on the Russian market the output of a number of new products from Sasio. According to Dmitry Havzhu, director MakTsentr, the share of sales PDAs Sasio on world markets Windows CE-devices is now about 44%, while in Russia this figure reaches 85%. According to popular devices Sasio stand in third place after the Palm and Psion (20% of Russian market of PDA). Thus, we can safely say that Sasio - leading manufacturer of handheld Windows CE. It is interesting that in a conference attended by Mr. Okun Takayuki, head of the Sasio in Moscow. The journalists had an excellent opportunity to ask him any questions personally. True, we can not say that the questions were many, but some explanations Okun-san still did. But more about that shortly. Product range can be divided into five categories: handheld computers Cassiopeia, subnotebooks Cassiopeia Fiva, electronic organizers Pocket Viewer, a family of "smart" watch Sasio and digital cameras. I must say, the device proved to be quite interesting. Sasio remained true to himself throughout: covered all areas of modern life "mobile" people, from professional activities, ending with only an amateur pastime. Each new product is aimed at specific target groups, and if used in the manufacture of high-tech products to the main account was placed on "advanced" users, but now there is a significant shift towards the masses. A good example of this are at least three of the demonstrated devices. However, start all the same with a very intelligent pocket-Computer literacy Cassiopeia E-125, calculated on a fairly narrow category of users. E-125 is positioned as "an indispensable tool in any business" and "mobile office in your pocket." Do not know about the first but the second statement is completely untrue. New Cassiopeia essentially no different from the previous model E-115. It is important that the device operates at an advanced processor (32-bit RISC (NEC VR4122) with a frequency of 150 MHz) and supports USB. According to Andrey Kuznetsov, head of mobile development company MakTsentr, Cassiopeia E-125 is a logical development of the line handheld business class from Cassio. The second model presented PDAs, EM 500, at first sight surprising atypical devices Cassiopeia design. Control buttons, of course, remain the same, but reducing the size and angularity of the body disappeared firm. Fashion today colored shell (5 colors) make a device design particularly relevant. It should be noted that the Cassiopeia EM 500, mainly aimed at young people. Talking about the device, Andrey Kuznetsov stressed new opportunities to work with a cell phone standard, GSM. In this regard, Sasio made a significant step forward. Model EM 500, as well as E-125 supports USB. Another pocket-sized novelty from Casio - Pocket Viewer PV-250X. The device operates on the basis of its own operating system Casio.According to Dmitry angrily, manager of potrebitelstkih goods Casio, this rather simple and inexpensive electronic organizer sold more than a PDA Cassiopeia. This is not surprising, because the Pocket Viewer is designed for the mass market, the device can even be classified as electronic notebooks. Asked about the plans Casio work with any other operating system except Windows CE OS and Casio, Mr. Okun said Takayuki very vaguely like the fact that "the market situation changes, the OS improved and we are keeping pace with the times, so anything is possible ... "But apparently (or more precisely - on the market success of Casio Windows CE PDAs), will soon support other operating systems is planned. Presented limelight subnotebook Cassiopeia Fiva MPC-102Series made a good impression at all. At least a few people have called him the best of today such devices. This pocket sized notebook with a videotape running with a full version of Windows 98 is fully compatible with the PC. What at first glance attracts Fiva - a stylish and surprisingly compact. It's time to tell you about the most amazing updates from Casio. Oddly enough, this watch. New Casio digital watch is difficult to call for hours, as they have built such complex devices like MP3-player or a GPS-receiver. Perhaps, from the James Bond spy devices, embedded in all imaginable and unimaginable items of equipment, the watch is distinguished by only a few limited technical capabilities. Today, "007" can be almost everyone. Only the picture on the clock (model Wrist Camera with built-in camera) will turn out not very clear and only black and white. And the batteries in the MP3-player (model Wrist Audio Player) is enough only for 4 hours. Well, the GPS-receiver (model Pathfinder) is not very accurate. Nevertheless, a multifunctional clock more pluses than minuses. If anyone needs a convenient player for the morning runs - the clock on the arm, the wire through the hose and go! The most primitive and most compact version of the electronic organizer - a watch PC-Unite. Overview of the device from Andrei Knyazev already exists in our Library. At a press conference Casio has introduced two digital cameras: QV-2300 QV-3000. Igor Glushchenko, coordinator sales representative in Moscow, Casio, very detailed account of their abilities and characteristics. Casio QV-3000, as the name implies, is a 3-megapixel digital camera with the possibility of tripling. The camera is unique. One of the best semi-professional digital cameras. Not so long ago I had a chance to work with this device, and a digital camera the results were not bad. But, frankly, in terms of quality and convenience of digital cameras is still inferior to film. Digital Camera, QV-3000, as a simple model QV-2300 is equipped with a USB port and, of course, a slot for memory cards. The standard delivery includes CF card on an 8-MB, but it always seems too little. Said QV-2300 - a brand-new 2-megapixel digital camera. Its distinguishing feature - the ability to rotate the lens at 270 Co. This allows you to shoot the sky, not raising his head (agree, it is convenient), or even yourself. In the latter case there is no need to give your precious camera in the hands of random passers-by or run out quickly when shooting with a delay. When you create a Casio QV-2300 tried to make how much friendlier user interface, but the principles of navigation, in general, are the same as in the QV-3000. Light weight (245 grams without batteries) and compactness make this device very suitable for non-professional photography.Summarized description of the QV-2300 can be the words of Igor Glushchenko: QV-2300 - a high-quality amateur chamber. Digital Camera, QV-3000, as a simple model QV-2300 is equipped with a USB port and, of course, a slot for memory cards. The standard delivery includes CF card on an 8-MB, but it always seems too little. Said QV-2300 - a brand-new 2-megapixel digital camera. Its distinguishing feature - the ability to rotate the lens at 270 Co. This allows you to shoot the sky, not raising his head (agree, it is convenient), or even yourself. In the latter case there is no need to give your precious camera in the hands of random passers-by or run out quickly when shooting with a delay. When you create a Casio QV-2300 tried to make how much friendlier user interface, but the principles of navigation, in general, are the same as in the QV-3000. Light weight (245 grams without batteries) and compactness make this device very suitable for non-professional photography. Summarized description of the QV-2300 can be the words of Igor Glushchenko: QV-2300 - a high-quality amateur chamber. , Casio has provided one of the camera QV-3000 for the drawing among the invited journalists. Happy owner of a digital camera is Vladimir Bogdanov of the magazine Computer Press. I congratulate all my heart! Would like to hope that Casio will continue to delight us with "intelligent" and stylish gadgets. The authors, translation:

First pilotovka in Moscow

November 9, 2000 held an event that had been brewing for a very long time. Long and well (though in absentia) familiar to conference people in one way or another connected with the PDA Palm, gathered together to meet and resolve the issues that are difficult to discuss with the help of electronic means. The action has already started about seven in the evening, when near the entrance to MakTsentr where and held the first meeting pilotomanov gathered the first fifteen people. Actually, the appointed time (19.30) in the dining room MakTsentr present for about forty people, which was a complete surprise to all. According to the experience of similar collections from St. Petersburg, expected about 10-15 people, but Moscow - a city more, and interest in the CCP appears to be higher here. So that the chamber of the situation did not work - dining room was apparently small:). This does not prevent communication and exchange, electronic business cards and programs on the IR port. The meeting started with a few uneasy, but as soon as all the little obzhilis, began a fruitful discussion and heated debate, were born Palma of all sizes and colors, flashing infrared ports (that nobody saw, of course). As promised, Alexander Moiseev gave a hand, "elephants" in the form of tips for the stylus, which were analyzed with the greatest eagerness, as already very well known and does not scratch the screen. Conversion in action. On the tables there were cakes, sweets and tea. From hPCru on the tables appeared Sony Clie c Memory Stick, Visor Deluxe with the module SpringBoard Xircom Modem, TRG Pro, as well as a folding keyboard for Palm V (Vx), finally Russified and running without glitches. Large and well-deserved interest was the Sony Clie: easy, fast, stylish, with the right, in the opinion of many, backlight and clear screen. In general, the materiel was the most diverse. At present several pilotovke Palm IIIc with my very happy owners, many PalmV, several Palm Vx, Palm III, IIIe, IIIx, and at least two TRG Pro. None Visor, except maktsentrovskogo noted. Talked a lot about systems, GPS. It was as a GPS receiver, and how their relationship with the CPC, as well as the currently available maps and a map to a grid. Odzhin of working with the Palm variants was demonstrated by Comrade. Stirlitz (aka Boris Yeltsin in the recent past), for which a dense group of the most desperate had to go to an already frosted patio. Especially waiting for Mr. Aleshin, which represents the standard Windows CE, which is indeed often the case using GPS. Upon arrival, Aleshin dense group made a secondary round of the courtyard, where they were on the right to assess some of the advantages of Cassiopeia in relation to GPS.True, the intricacies of wires connecting GPS receivers and PDAs, have caused some skepticism. At the meeting, the participants appeared, and all without the CCP. Very sober reasoning that such a meeting can learn much more than the sellers stores, they zadvali lot of questions that received no less than pleased to answer. Present were even two people from Dnepropetrovsk with questions about the use of Palm and QuickSheet for automated collection of information on production. On the sidelines were talking and Palm M100, its success / failure as a mass device. Widely and sadly condemning the subject incomprehensible demise of the St. Petersburg team sites palm.spb.ru. Details, so no one knows. Another big topic of conversation was the discussion of organizational issues: what to do next, how to organize pilotovki etc. It was clear that for such gatherings wall maktsentrovskoy dining room too small - we were preparing for an influx of less. That resolution, adopted unanimously: 1. Pilotovki will be held once a month every second Thursday of the month.

Conference Report Palm: development trends and prospects

December 7, the company's office MakTsentr held a press conference devoted to new products and news from the major manufacturers of handheld platforms Palm. At the conference were invited journalists from the main Russian komyuternyh publications. "We asked you to come at this particular time because, as we thought we had accumulated a lot of interesting new information that I would like to bring to you. There are new models of Palm` a, new software, new models of Handspring, a new and yet The only model Palm platform has appeared at Sony "- said Dmitry Havzhu, deputy director of the company MakTsentr. Palm - is the most popular Pocket PC platform today. PDA market is constantly evolving, and Palm is not standing still. Jeffrey Barry, a spokesman for MSG in Russia, in the latest issue of Fortune Magazine's technology, developed by Palm Computing, was named the fastest growing technology in the history of the world: over three years was made ​​about 6 million units. Not so long ago, Palm Computing has introduced a new software suite Mobile Internet Kit (MIK), which includes all the necessary applications to access Internet sites and e-mail via mobile phone. In MIK includes WAP-browser software to send and receive SMS-messages and e-mail, and 30 programs to get information from the leading internet sites. On the enclosed CD, only 30 programs, but the site Palm.net them around 450 - that is the number of Web resources available through the Palm device using the technology of Web Clipping. Directly on meeting have been demonstrated MIK: for Palm V was install the program Yahoo! People Search (1.0), and then through a cell phone connection to the site occurred Yahoo! and the query was executed to search a specified person. While that MIK is available separately and costs about $ 40. The next year will be version 4.0 operating system Palm OS. Most likely, version 4.0 will include a software package MIK. In addition, Palm OS 4.0 will be more suited to the national languages ​​than modern versions. The difficulties faced by Russian developers Russifiers primarily due to the fact that the establishment of localization for Palm OS was a little thoughtful or not provided Palm Computing. During the conference, representatives MakTsentr phoned Nilenu Ulrich, manager of distribution of the German Mission of Palm Computing. By the way, answering questions from journalists, Ulrich Nilen reported that Palm is going to develop a Russian localization for Palm OS, which has caused a lot of surprise for all attendees. For the first time such an intention was made official. But when it happens - a big issue. Apparently, very soon. The representative of the Palm reported a lot of other interesting details about the company's plans. According to him, prices ustroaystva remain unchanged until 1 March 2001, and then the situation will change with the launch of new products.All new devices will run on bazee faster processors. Palm Computing plans to unveil a new Palm V with an SD expansion slot at CeBit 2001 in Hannover. The prototype card SD, the size of a coin pyatirublevuyu, was demonstrated to journalists. As for Palm V with a color screen, no information on the timing of appearance of this device yet. Dmitry Havzhu reported that the main problem that developers are trying to solve the Palm vc - is the lack of time the batteries. Andrey Kuznetsov, Head of Mobile MakTsentr development company, made a presentation of new devices from Handspring: Visor Prism and Platinum. Both models operate on the basis of processors with higher clock speed - 33 MHz. Color screen Prism differs significantly from the screen, Palm IIIc: the standard for Palm OS screen resolution of 160x160, the number of colors displayed increased to 65,536. On the new device was less visible pixelation. Prism features allow you to view a photo album and even play videos. And Prism, Platinum, and first presented in Moscow. All information about the devices available on the official website of the manufacturer. By the way, Andrew said that the new colors of the two models gave the CCP a more noble form: "Such a device is not ashamed to get out of his pocket." Much has been said, and new modules Springboard. Of those that have appeared in Moscow, the most interesting SpringPort modem from Xircom. This is not just a standard modem to 56 kbps, but in GSM-modem, 700 KB additional flash memory and a set of software for email and internet. It is worth the modem exactly how many, how many and CF-modem: $ 130 in Russia. Innovation, which raised questions from the journalists - it VisorPhone. Indeed, an interesting device. "All in one: a PDA flick of the wrist into a cell phone. Maybe it's not very convenient, because the size of the device will be compared with the latest models of mobile phones. But with the VisorPhone users have the mass of new features, including working with SMS, email and the Internet. The authors, translation:

Pilotovka, take the second or the view from the outside

Pilotovku, take the second, we "removed" other décor in the new conference hall MakTsentr. Collecting has been appointed for the evening on December 14. Arrived about 50 people armed with Palmami different models and colors. Among pilotomanov was seen with a special judge rarity Newton'om, inspiring respect for its size and age, as well as radio engineer with the Palm 5 and GSM-module, as well as two guests from St. Petersburg. By 20.00 was packed. In a somewhat constrained environment began the official part of the event. According to the program planned a short, forty minutes, to hear reports about the new models Visor'ov - Platinum and Prism, firstborn Sony - Sony Clie PDA and corporate use. In contrast to the official conference for Palm performing Andrei Kuznetsov and Pavel Dolginov said all that really think about the news. Paul, for example, openly complained about the inconvenient cheholchik for the new Sony Slie with which five were present owners of this PDA quite agree. Generally, in a noisy room unanimity prevailed, and soon voices of speakers were difficult to distinguish. In general, new Visory pleased with their powerful processors, and open in the light of this powerful, but gradually from the gallery, and then from the front row fell puzzled questions. Like, why the new Prism 65 thousand colors, what to do, and who needs all this. It is understandable. Talk about color Palm being a long time and they end in sight. Therefore, at the end of his speech, Andrey Kuznetsov invited all actively attacking him with questions and comments to prepare a report to the next pilotovku on topics that interest them. Desire was met with approval. The third speaker Dennis Pichugin began the story of the Industrial PDA (Workabout MX and Symbol PT 1700), as emboldened students asked him to test these models for durability. And Dennis, negligible sumnyaschesya Enough Symbol'om on the table. (Do not worry, the table was not injured). Meanwhile, the excited crowd shouted: "And we and the concrete wall was beaten!" In response, our tester was skeptical stared up svezheokleennuyu white wallpaper a room. Thus began the section pilotovki codenamed "Demonstration and test of the CCP." Meanwhile at the other end of the hall, "acted" activist Spider, attracted to him during the official part of many listeners. In a circle of regular visitors Conferences extensively discussed the problem of polygonal software for Palm'ov. Of course, all worried about the ethical side of this issue .:))) That here and there in a bunch of flashed natural discussions, which, incidentally, ended with nothing special. Arrived, the time for competitions. First - the prize Palmopervenstvo hPCru - especially successful. During his experimentally proved that the fastest way you can print using silkyboard. The winner was fixed rate of 117 characters per minute! Lovely folding keyboard got Vladimir Kozhanova, DC conference attendees, better known as Palmer. The other participants were awarded for zeal brand shirts hPCru. After the competition the very happy owner Claudia confessed that his first Palm also won in the contest.We wish Palmer'u new records! But with the opening of the original functionality of the PDA was too complicated because everything basically told the developers in many manuals. Write a new chapter in this book (for a particular model Palm'a) - this problem was posed to the participants of the second contest. Since it's the mastered all known Stirlitz. In vain, that scout! First, he opened his astonished audience that now from Palm, you can work under water, showing a rare beauty gidrokostyumchik for your pet. That would be glad Cousteau! Second, using Palm'a now measured everything your heart desires. For this Stirlitz sought out and established a special program. Sorry, does not measure the width of the soul! While ... For his ingenuity winner was awarded a firm handle Palm and seems satisfied with the gift. Alex - Eustace: a new task. Identify opportunities Palm'a functioning in a fiery environment and copper pipes. Locate and install a new program to control weighing fruits and vegetables in the market. Joke! Thank you Stirlitz! At pilotovke also summed up the contest for the best program for Palm'a, announced a month ago at palmsoft.narod.ru. Prizes were presented by the creator of the site young pilotoman Ilya Varlamov. First place went to Palm and most prolific party Vyacheslav Mikheev. This worthy man had found 78 programs for PDAs. The second was awarded Palm'om Nariman Namazov, brought to the collection site a little less software. And the third prize - a Palm papier - mache:)) - got Yuri Sokolov, better known as Yes. More precisely, in a cardboard box was packed Stand for PC, which he immediately identified by its own Palm. Thus ended the entertainment part and assembled with a deep sense of satisfaction began to drink tea with cakes. Becoming enthusiastic exclamations were heard: "Only a second pilotovka, but as we turned around!" Immediately began to think how and where to hold the third. But the question remained open. Approximately 22.00 palm'anyaki particularly persistent, do not hesitate, waving his clever device. Someone photographed. Someone dreamed of a bright future pilotovok. Someone looking for a cradle for ... electric kettle to warm some water. But here amid the general confusion was a call to build and raise Palma up! The collective impulse immediately rallied the fans Palm'ov. Together, they are no longer afraid of anything! The authors, translation:

Third Moscow pilotovka at the new location

Changed the venue and time. But pilotomany not change. Those familiar cute face in the new environment ... January 18 at 19.30 in quantities of 36 people are gathered in the premises of the Moscow Children's Club "Computer", which was to take the third pilotovka. How many have admitted in the questionnaire, mainly to listen to the reports, look at others, to show themselves well, and like to share software. Well, third time is always symbolic! Past pilotovka showed that fighters for the cause of Palm ready to "fight" in any conditions. After the workday, for example, can go listen to 4 of the report, every half hour, completely ignoring the cakes and tea, which themselves had brought. And not just listen, and discuss in detail. And this is without rest breaks and samodemonstratsiyu! Unfortunately, all were left without the promised competition, which just does not fit in the evening program and must be held in next time. But the reports at this time were very relevant and illustrative. Thanks to the projector and video camera, the power of artistic expression of speakers has increased several times. And in the hall stood a respectful silence. The first was dokladchkom Andrei Kuznetsov. He announced the withdrawal of Russian Palma "and urged everyone to participate in the project. Programmers are vividly reacted to the invitation, and later expressed a desire to place their projects on disk "Russian Palma. We hope that the wishes be followed by concrete action and await the results. The second speaker Pavel Bulgakov (Stirlitz). His account of the GPS satellite navigation receivers in conjunction with the platform Palm, provoked strong interest and discussion was delayed for half an hour. It turned out that this system of Russia is "somewhat differently than in other countries. So far ... not quite legally, on the enthusiasm. In this connection for the Palm has not yet developed high-quality vector map of Moscow or St. Petersburg, and of other cities and say nothing. Scientists-enthusiasts as always being persecuted by the authorities as to get permission to GPS-receiver with us is impossible, but to get an administrative penalty for his wearing of a $ 800 minimum salaries - please. And you have to hide your Stirlitz priemnichek from watchful guards, the size of the benefit thereof allows. The only thing that can give a brave tester - is cumbersome wires, without which the system GPS + Palm5 not functioning. They say that the question of allowing the use of GPS-receivers is discussed in the summit, but what are threads there just are not discussed? Next were a duo Peter Wolf (Spider) and Yuri Sokolov (YES). They talked about the two programs-shells: the Israeli "HandScape Pro" and "MegaLauncher" from the Russian company Megasoft. YES praised "Handscape Pro" for the opportunity to customize the interface, which immediately and demonstrated. Spider a few times called "MegaLauncher" shell "for the stupid Americans" for the simplicity and intuitive handling. Probably the ideal program shell to actually Spidera - is the one whose function it is impossible to know until the end. Judging by the profiles, the program people in general liked. Someone might even buy both for $ 10 to $ 20 and this despite the fact that the question of whether he cracked software responded positively. It was about ten o'clock, and all were eager to speak pilotomany and discuss, speak and discuss ... True, two recent reports have been five-minute. Sergei Fedotov told about the shell SystemCommander 1.46. Andr told about new software, "third-party" for Sony Clie: JogDial use in all applications, reading of texts written on the Memory Stick (without transferring them to the main memory), a utility for use with Memory Stick (the details of this report will appear later). As soon as the hunger for information was satisfied with the present experienced physical hunger, and finally saw the cakes. During the communication group of activists decided to reorganize the offices of the club on the web. Stay tuned! Give them an extra hour a day, and they filled it with useful information! The organizers thank the Moscow Children's Club "Computer" for the provision of facilities. Organizational HomePage Moscow Palm-club: Palmclub.ru authors, translation: