All models of handheld computers and smartphones from ASUS combines one thing in common - outstanding battery life. A real revelation in this regard was the last year MyPal A636. He also became the first navigation model ASUStek Computer Inc, one of the first devices based on the navigation chip SiRFStar III and, in combination, one of the most balanced CPC at that time. Modification of A632 and A639, which appeared a little later, to consolidate the gains. And now, a year later, ASUS has released a new series of similar models: A696, A686 and A626. And if each of the CPC last year, had a built-in navigation module, the new line can be called a navigation only with a small caveat: the junior model will not be on board the GPS-chip, and therefore positioned as a classic PDA. Well, for someone, maybe it's a good thing, because the classic hand-held computers recently came out very little. Today in our hands, all three new items: A696, A686, A626. And, before you begin a detailed examination, take a look at their performance and go through the differences.
Technical data
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| Specifications ASUS A696, A686, A626 |
Let's start with the fact that both GPS-model - A696 and A686, now has a built-in antenna, rather than fold-up unit, like A632, A636 and A639. This allowed engineers to slightly reduce the size of the body and therefore make PDAs a little easier. Jumping forward a little, we say that these changes had no effect on the quality of signal reception.
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Another important point - the processors. Models equipped with the last series chip PXA272 with 416 MHz, but here such a processor is installed only in the older model - A696, Jr. went to the chip, clocked at 312 MHz. Of the other discrepancies noted the volume Flash ROM. Model for the index of 696 has 256 MB of storage, the rest - for 128 MB. Moreover, A686 lost Wi-Fi module, and A626 do without GPS-receiver. And, of course, the cost of model changes on decreasing: more expensive than all sold as A696, then A686, and A626 very close to cost price of the CCP. Wi-Fi modules in the A696/A626 supports IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g, Bluetooth 2.0 supports EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), and IR, in spite of the latest trends, fashion has remained in place. Thus, A626 - a classic model with a full range of wireless interfaces, A696 - WM-functional navigator, and the A686 should be regarded as its simplified version.
Supplied
All models looks quite familiar. However, because of the difference in positioning the contents of the box A626 is different from the complete set of brothers in the lineup. So, along with the A696 and the A686 is delivered:
- stylus
- Lithium-Ion Battery 1200 mAh,
- USB-cable for synchronization
- charger from the 220V,
- car charger (from the cigarette lighter)
- automotive fastener,
- cover,
- CD with accompanying software,
- User guide and documentation
- promotional brochures.
As for A626, then it set no car mount and a suitable charger. Since the model is not equipped with GPS-receiver, there is no need and navigation accessories. It is quite logical.
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Avtokreplenie standard - a plastic frame that is attached to a holder with suction cup. Holder itself is a flexible rod.
The review ASUS P525 communicator, we said that Synchronization cable has an unusually small length. The same thing would have to say, and now, USB-cable that comes with A696/686/626 exactly the same. Two feet all still not enough for a comfortable PDA to connect to desktop computers. But since the other end there is a standard miniUSB connector, then the problems with the replacement sync cable there should be no. The stylus is the most common. He habitually thick, has a standard length and in quite handy.
Appearance
All models look exactly the same, so in this section to talk about the differences we do not have to. Designed in classic style, without any frills. Nevertheless, cars look quite attractive. The front side of the metal, and the remaining members of the body are made of plastic. If you remember, before the official announcement on the Network of rumors that the building will be completely metallic. In this case, the CCP turned to heavy, and the internal antenna GPS-module, most likely, would have behaved very badly. Fortunately, the rumors were not confirmed if you look closely, it is easy to see that all three models are designed to work in a horizontal orientation. This is indicated by a horizontal inscription "GPS" and the asymmetrical arrangement of the screen (it is a little closer to the right side of casing). In addition, at the time of first inclusion PDA screen works in landscape mode. There is yet another feature - the silo. However, we will tell about him a little lower, but until we reassure you: the usual vertical orientation ASUS A696/A686/A626 as comfortable as any other PDA. Switching between landscape / portrait screen orientation traditionally been one of hardware buttons. Thus, the front side - is the screen (it was, as always, say separately), the hardware buttons below it, two gratings, with the one of which is hidden speaker system, and the second - the LED indicators. Above the display you can see the slot, similar to the hidden voice sound - as in the device. However, it is the third LED. He switched on while charging and glows orange or green. Lower lights located under the right bars show running GPS-module (green), activated Wi-Fi (orange) and Bluetooth (blue).
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On the hardware buttons in the case of all three models can only say good. The buttons are quite large in size, they are easily pressed and have a sufficient reserve. If you feel a clear response. The same words deserves navigation key with the confirmation button in the center. It is located just below the number of basic controls, and also has a large size. It is convenient to use for scrolling of GPS-maps during the trip, when one hand is busy driving, or during active play.
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As for keybindings, it is quite usual. We list their functions from left to right: call recording applications, the menu of contacts, calendar, change the screen orientation, which allows more and switch between running applications, operating similarly to a combination of "Alt + Tab". But for the soft keys that correspond to onscreen buttons Widows Mobile, space, alas, was not found. Turning to consideration of the ends, it is worth noting that the case PDA almost no right angles. All edges are neatly ironed out - it provides convenient retention in the hands and prevents accidental loss of cars out of hand. On the bottom sides with the infrared port is located, as well as an opening for a soft reset. At the corner of the lower end and the left sidewall is the stylus holder. Thus, if you hold the PDA in a horizontal position when the left sidewall is located at the bottom, it turns out that the pen is located usual way. But when working in a vertical orientation to extract the stylus is not too convenient. Rather it will take some time to adjust. Sam stylus is held securely in a pencil case, and the shape of the upper end makes it easy to pick up his finger.
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The upper face contains an expansion slot, a role which here is a full-size connector SD / MMC, supporting SDIO. It is traditionally closed with a plastic flap in the form of a memory card. And next to it there is an on / off button, which on prolonged hold off the screen backlight.
On the left side can be detected only connector miniUSB, which connects both Synchronization cable and charger. A right is a standard 3.5-millimeter headset jack is located next to the switch "Hold", which locks the screen and all buttons. Very handy for those who like to use the PDA as a MP3-Player.
The back side contains a small hole with the lattice. This is the second output of the system dynamics, which is designed to suppress echo while using the VoIP-telephony without headsets. The voice on the "other end" coming from the speaker does not fall into the microphone and saves your buddy from listening to their own phrases. Agree, very pleasant trifle.
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Furthermore, the rear side of the case contains a connector for external GPS-antenna, which is concealed by a rubber plug. The battery cover is approximately 30% of the space back and shifted to the right. On the backlash is not even a hint, and the battery sits in a compartment light habitual movement.
Summarizing the external examination, noting the high build quality, inherent in all latest models of ASUS and good performance overall weight and dimensions. Dimensions: 117 x 71 x 16 mm and weighs 165 grams can easily be handheld in the pocket of jeans or even a jacket. Dimensions for all three models are identical, and the weight A626 in the absence of navigation module has turned out to 7 grams lighter. Thus, the design of all three models can be evaluated on a solid "four", ergonomics and build quality at an honest "five" stars without any reservations. Let us move on.
Screen
Looking at the specifications, you might think that the display ASUS A696/A686/A626 does not differ from the screen in any similar device. Indeed, the diagonal in 3.5-inch long been a standard PDA, similar to a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and the ability to display 65,536 colors. However, the local screen is not as bright as, for example, Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox N500/N520. This is explained by the presence of anti-reflective coating. Someone surely hasten to write it in the list of deficiencies, however, in our opinion, this is a very good solution. When using the PDA in the car as a browser screen will not reflect the sun and, therefore, will not distract the driver. When ostustvii anti-reflective coating problem was solved by changing the position of CPC attachment. The device could simply unscrew the other side, but it was not too convenient to monitor the maps and routes. In the case of ASUS A696/A686 can perfectly get along without such artifice. Strangely, this practice long used by manufacturers of autonomous navigation, but for some reason, so far none of the manufacturers of navigational PDA / smartphones not thought about it. The viewing angles are good, the color is almost not distorted when you try to look at the screen at an acute angle. In contrast, too, a full order.
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There are no clear divisions to move the slider that controls the backlight - it moves very smoothly, as smoothly changing brightness. Maximum level of illumination is sufficient for most situations. Because of the anti-reflective coating brightness does not seem as high as those of other PDAs, but thanks to this cover can be quite comfortable to work in sunlight. Minimum level a little lower than most similar devices, but it is very easy to read text in complete darkness.
Speed and memory
As noted at the beginning of the review, the top model series - A696 is equipped with more processors' performance than A686 and A626. Rather processors are from the same family - Intel XScale PXA272, vary their frequency: 416 MHz vs. 312 MHz. ASUS, as always, left the ability to manually change the operating frequency. For this purpose, the CCP has a special utility that allows you to switch between maximum (corresponds to the maximum frequent), normal (corresponds to a slightly reduced), power save (appropriate for low battery) and auto.All tests are, as always, conducted in an automatic mode that works like clockwork and allow to achieve very high rates of battery life. However, this will be discussed below.
And yet - loans testing new products using Spb Benchmark test package from the company Spb Software House. Should I once again remind you that attention should be paid only on the results of graphics and CPU tests? So, take a look at the results.
As can be seen from the diagram, ASUS A696, due to 400 MHz from Intel, to cope with the graphics completely confident in all modes ahead of competitors. But lower-end models A686 and A626, c 300-megahertz stone, in some cases slightly inferior to 400 processors megegertsovym Samsung, which is equipped with HP and Mio. In tests, the processor picture more clearly. One can immediately see two groups: the first 300 MHz of Asus A686, A626 and Loox N500, the second at 400 MHz ASUS A696, Mio P550 and iPAQ rx5730.
Well, as usual, we give a complete table of test results.
The older model series - A696, as can be seen competing with HP iPAQ rx5730. In tests where the main role played by the processor speed, leading ASUS, and HP iPAQ rx5730 has an advantage in speed of memory operations. Models A686 and A626 keep up, and lower results due to the low frequency of the CPU. As often happens, the benchmark was with errors, but the overall picture and so beautiful emerges. We proceed to test the speed of video playback, which are traditionally held on the player TCPMP (The Core Pocket Media Player) Version 0.071.
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Perhaps the comments here would be superfluous. As you can see, the older model without a problem reproduces even the worst movie RL_XQ (640 x 480), and the A686 and A626 perfectly show itself in all spots, except for the highest quality. And because the screen resolution, all three members of the new series is 240 x 320, the video view, higher resolution screen, can hardly be called reasonable occupation. On the other hand, the future owners of the A696 will be able to avoid the time spent on re-encoding movies. On the memory, as always, is standard. All three models have 64 MB of RAM, and differing amounts of Flash ROM. A696 has 256 MB, the other models - the 128 MB. After rebooting remain free to about 38 MB of RAM of 54 MB of dedicated system.
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| Memory allocation in a model of ASUS A696 |
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| Memory allocation in models of ASUS A686/A626 |
Expansion slot in all cases supports cards up to 4 GB inclusive. And besides there is the ability to connect SDIO-devices. However, it is unlikely to be in demand, as new items so have all the necessary modules.
Sound
About the destruction of echo in VoIP-telephony, we have said above. It remains to mention other audio features. Just say that the speaker is one and it is located under the left grille on the front side. Right grill - a decorative element. So what about any stereo out of the question. But is it critical for you? The volume is quite impressive, which is important when using the PDA in kachastvo car navigator, for voice prompts should sound clearly and loudly. Headset jack has a standard - 3.5 mm, so that you can connect virtually any headphones, without having to buy adapters. The sound quality raises no objections. Music A696/A686/A626 sounds just as high quality as it is an iPod nano first generation. So, these PDAs are ideal for use as an MP3 player. There is also a built-in equalizer, the quality is not inferior to most modern players.
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The microphone is quite good. But no more. It allows you to write the sound from a distance of five to six meters. Provided that the recording in a quiet environment. When recording in noisy environments have to hold the PDA very close to my lips, to hear the voice on the recording. Slightly improve the recording quality by using the settings, but overall series A696/A686/A626 no better and no worse than any similar model.
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Communication and GPS-receiver
Once again, we recall that the A696 is equipped with all necessary wireless interfaces and a GPS-receiver. ASUS A686 deprived of Wi-Fi module, and the model with an index of A626 does without navigation chip. Infrared, which recently are becoming increasingly rare, is present in all three sets. Manage all your Bluetooth-functions is through a set of drivers from the company Broadcomm. But for simplicity and ease of this set is familiar to you Bluetooth Manager. Actually, this story could and finish. Drivers Broadcomm long been the benchmark of convenience. We add that the local Bluetooth 2.0 models support data transmission at high speed (EDR) - up to 3 megabits per second. Of course, 3 Mbps - is the maximum number of specifications and, as you know, in real conditions, the rate rarely reaches a maximum, typically 2.4 - 2.7 megabits per second. The set of supported profiles is impressive. Here and A2DP, an increasingly popular, and standard DUN (Dial-Up Networking), FTP, AVRCP, and so on. In short, supported by almost all the existing profiles. The test modules are in the process of everyday use. Tested PDA works in conjunction with several mobile phones (the exchange of contacts, files), connects to Bluetooth-keyboard, sync with your PC via MS ActiveSync and even tested in conjunction with the BT-GTS receivers, despite the fact that the need for such work in the future owners A696/A686 will not.
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Wi-Fi modules in the A696 and A626 to become a "blue teeth" - they regularly keeping in touch and as always easy to configure. True, standard software can operate with only a basic set of options. However, for the main tasks is enough. And those who need a more fine-tuning or the installation of data encryption can be tricky to find a third-party development in the "Application for PDA.
Aerial navigation module is now located inside the body: in its upper part. Recall that all the ASUS PDA of 2006 were equipped with the antenna in the form of a folding unit at the rear of the chassis. We have repeatedly told you about the quality of the chip SiRF Star III, will not be repeated. Suffice it to say that the A696 and A686, it behaves no worse than any other modern navigational device. That is regularly keep in touch, losing only in the rear satellites, in tunnels and under the big bridges.
Runtime
And now proceed to the most important tests - on battery life. Models from ASUS has always shown excellent results. Was no exception and a new series. However, before moving to the results, we recall that the capacity of a standard battery that comes with 1200 mAh, which is not far from the average capacity. Testing scheme has not undergone any changes. Thus, the results. 1. Maximum load. Vykruchena the brightness to maximum volume of the speaker, too, Wi-Fi (for A696 and A626) operates in the search network is activated Bluetooth, and Windows Media Player in a cycle of plays "heavy" video. Battery life in this mode was as follows:
- A696 - 3:00 27 minutes
- A686 - 4:00 32 minutes
- A626 - 4:00 27 minutes.
2. Normal operation. In this mode, all wireless modules have been disabled. The brightness set to minimum level (in the absence of clear divisions, he was determined by eye). And while the PDA was started reading the text in Haali Reader with automatic scrolling. While working in this mode was as follows:
- A696 - 22 hours 54 minutes,
- A686 - 21 hours 16 minutes
- A626 - 23 hours 18 minutes.
3. MP3 Playback. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth disabled, as well as the screen backlight. Windows Media Player play MP3-files with a bitrate of 192 kbps through wired headphones. While working in this mode was as follows:
- A696 - 23 hours 58 minutes,
- A686 - 22 hours 32 minutes
- A626 - 23 hours 28 minutes.
In general, as you can see, the results are very good. Under the maximum load A696 worked less than their counterparts due to a "greedy" processor. And the A686 has worked for the longest time due to lack of Wi-Fi module. Although the difference is not as great as one might expect.
And the chart A696/A686/A626 compared with Mitac Mio P550 and Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox N500 and HP iPAQ rx5730. Feel the difference, given that PDA from Hewlett Packard Battery 1700 mAh!
Soft
A set of predefined software looks quite modest. We can identify the program except that Mode Switcher, which is controlled by the extreme right hardware button and serves to quickly switch between running applications, as well as to change the screen orientation. This utility is present on all models of the last series PDA ASUS.
ASUS Status - also our old friend, who was present on all the latest devices, including communicators P525 and P535. It shows a diagram of the free / used memory, the operating mode of the processor (and also allows you to get quick access to the menu to switch modes) and facilitates access to a number of system settings.
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And now this collection of programs for A696/A686/A626 and limited.
Price issue
In chain stores MakTsentr - Computer in the palm of value ASUS A686 PDA at the time of publication of the material is 10,880 rubles, the average cost model A696 for about 2000 rubles above, and cheaper than all sold A626 sotimost about 9500 rubles.
Conclusions
So, what do we have? If you try to draw a conclusion on each representative of a new series, then get three extremely successful models for different categories of users. A626 - an inexpensive PDA for those who still prefer to use the telephone in conjunction with a handheld device instead. At low cost it can offer a complete portfolio of wireless modules, excellent battery life and adequate performance for most tasks. A696 - the flagship, offering a higher (compared to the A626) and an excellent performance GSP-receiver, and the A686 is designed for those who need high-quality navigation PDA, buying that would not have to overpay for unused features. Among the shortcomings we can write own who were a few little things like a short USB-cable from the kit or inconvenient location of the stylus holder. But the overall picture it does not spoil. The authors, translation:
Victor Zaikovsky
