E-Ten G500, or how not to get lost in the urban jungle

Marketing striding across the planet. Which only tricks are not resorted manufacturers of various technical devices to raise revenue - and sometimes can not be assumed. Naturally, this trend has not spared the market and pocket PCs. Still, it would seem, only recently attention has shifted from manufacturers of traditional PDAs to communicators, and now we face a new round of technological race - fashion on the GPS. Fairly well-known company E-Ten, apparently decided to be among the first to learn yet another trendy niche and released device, equipped with a GSM-module and a GPS-receiver - E-Ten G500. In fairness, I must say that fast all came up to install a navigation company communicators HP - champion of innovation, which spied on the idea of ​​the company Garmin, are produced in different years is not very popular Pocket PC with GPS - is running Palm OS, is based on the Pocket PC. But back to HP. The first pancake, as usual, came from this manufacturer lumpy, and the communicator HP iPAQ hw6515, which was charged with so much hope, has not won acceptance among users. The reason for that served mostly to relatively high starting price of the device and square screen (240x240 pixels resolution), a stripped-down, in pixels, because it placed under the QWERTY-keyboard. Nevertheless, GPS as a new feature for buyers has been estimated mobile device manufacturers, software companies software and miniature embedded satellite receivers. So after some time, many have begun to report the news of the withdrawal of communicators, navigators. Among the first publisher of such a device actually turned out to be E-Ten. You've got to say that the G500 is basically a remake of her latest popular model M600. Only in new items Wi-Fi module replaced today demanded GPS. Let's see what can offer this device.

Specifications:
• Operating system: Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition
• Processor: Samsung S3C 2440A 400 MHz
• Memory: 64M RAM (48 MB user available) and 128 MB Flash ROM (80 MB available)
• Screen: 2.8 "(72 mm) transflective TFT, 240x320, 65536 colors
• Expandable memory: miniSD Card
• Wireless Interfaces: Bluetooth 2.0 (class 2), GSM 850/900/1800/1900, GPRS Class 10
• GPS: SiRF Star III
• Battery: Li-Ion, 1440 mAh
• Audio: microphone, speaker, 2.5 mm stereo headphone jack
• Dimensions and weight: 119 x 62 x 23 mm and 186, the

Of the next class and capabilities of devices for E-Ten G500 can be distinguished already mentioned here iPAQ hw6515, big brother E-Ten M600, as well as communicator Mio A700 and the upcoming apparatus FS Pocket Loox T830, Qtek G200. Compare these machines can use the "Compare devices" in the "Catalogue of the CPC on HPCru.

E-Ten M600, E-Ten G500 and HP iPAQ hw6515

Supplied

As expected from the handheld GPS-enabled, E-Ten G500 is equipped with a set of accessories for mobile navigation, which consists of the usual rod-holder with suction cup to attach to the windshield and car charger. Complaints to equip new cars not only upset the lack of a spare stylus and cradle.

So, set:
• communicator
• charger
• USB-cable for synchronization and charging
• Conveying Charger
• Stereo Headset
• Car Holder
• cover
• User guide
• software.

Appearance

It seems that E-Ten, finally ceased to experiment over the appearance of devices and have developed their own style. The new communicator is quite recognizable - the same black plastic body with silver lining on the sides. A distinctive feature of the new machines - a bright luminescent band framing the screen and keys. Light color - fashionable today bright blue. Looks like designers have taken this decision at Motorola, with its now popular RAZR V3. At the very least, a sense of borrowing design is present. You can not call it a solution uniquely enjoyable - past the key now is impossible to miss, but the light is strongly straining his eyes in the dark. Machine itself looks pretty big and heavy. Although it is not very strong difference in size and weight with the Qtek s100 (traditionally taken as a reference point when comparing modern communicators with display 2,8 "), the new device seems to be more cumbersome. Nevertheless, due to non-standard ratio of height to width, in hand, he is quite comfortable. Arrangement of controls is not quite traditional, as the control keys are not only under, but over the screen. Below, under the display unit passed from the control keys and joystick. Designation of their habit: "Call," "Hang" and two shortcut soft keys used by Windows Mobile 5.0. Joystick large, square shape, with a dedicated center button. And the joystick and buttons are clearly separated by a plastic illuminated strip, use them conveniently. Above the screen, around the hole dynamics, there are two more buttons. By default, they are responsible for the launch of utilities and Frequency Dial M-Desk, but they can be reset. Above the buttons are two LEDs - battery and the wireless interfaces. Upper end of the PDA is pretty empty, all other controls are located on each side of the device. On the left side are buttons run the camera and voice recorder, a slider for volume control and reset button, which should push the stylus. On the right - the power button and a slot for memory cards miniSD.A little awkward that the charger can not be connected directly to a PDA, it must be done via USB-cable. So if you plan to take with you when you travel charger, and still have to take an extra cable. At the rear of the G500 business as usual: a camera with a mirror for self portraits and a connector for external GPS-antenna, covered by a rubber plug. Under the removable cap resting battery, under which slot for SIM-cards. In principle, the body produces new items rather favorable impression. Maybe somebody does not really like a solution with backlit keys, but overall the company E-Ten to be congratulated on successfully. Finally, the quality of the performance of its units reached a stable level.

Processor, memory and performance

Here, everything has remained unchanged since the previous model, E-Ten M600. All the same processor Samsung S3C2440 and the same amount of memory - 64 MB RAM, of which the user can use 48 MB and 128 MB Flash ROM, where for the personal use of allocated 80 MB. Since the E-Ten G500 is not only a communicator but also the navigator, it makes sense to just buy a memory expansion card, for navigation systems - rather extensive piece. Expansion slot in the new device is now more compact than its predecessor - the format miniSD. This - a smaller version of the same SD, so that complete them usually go adapters that allow use of the new stick in the more familiar SD slots. With regard to the maximum available amount of these cards, but now you can easily get 1 GB miniSD. In the near future, the producers promise to release a 2 GB card for this standard. For the price they are slightly more expensive than their relatives. In general, problems with memory, you should not have, so let's get on to the next chapter - testing. Measurement speed E-Ten G500 produced by means of the program SPB Benchmark. No surprises - the results coincide with the ETen M600 up to several percent, which is quite possible to justify the measurement error. Machine was one of the fastest in its class.

Below shows the test results:
• CPU speed

• file system performance

Complete test results can be found in the summary table, but we must remember that not all the tests package Spb Benchmark is correct (for example, test the graphics subsystem), so the final result (the index of the platform) can not be called objective. Similar results were obtained when testing the video program BetaPlayer. Communicator is easy to cope with "the mobile" video and hardly reproduces not converted into a mobile format movies. Subjectively, the E-Ten G500 works pretty quickly, except for intensive tasks such as navigation and viewing of heavy video. I must say that with a slight deceleration in the navigation programs are facing almost all owners of mobile devices, so it's an inevitable moment when dealing with such a machine. However, for too long the communicator will not make you wait, but this just below. In regard to the video, it is simply Burn source movie, and everything will be okay. Another thing, he wonders if viewing on a small screen. Large pdf-files and documents Word Mobile machine opens up pretty quickly. With a fairly high-quality toys and copes with a bang. In general, to perform basic tasks of its future owner's performance device is enough.

Screen

The new device is installed the same screen as that of the M600 - transflective, 320x240 at diagonal 2.8 inch (72 mm). It's smaller than most PDAs, but the standard for communicators. So that those who "transplanted" from handhelds to G500 or other smart phones have become accustomed to a more compact display. It seems that G500 increased brightness compared with its predecessor, the screen at maximum backlight makes it comfortable to work with data even in bright sunlight. The matrix has excellent viewing angles, no artifacts were not observed. At 10 levels of backlight brightness, which is enough to adjust under any lighting. If it is completely off, the screen remains lit by dim light, making it easy for continuous operation in total darkness. Still not possible to specify backlight level separately for battery and AC power. Also unchanged were automatic adjustment: "Autoadjust by battery's cap" - change the backlighting depending on battery level, and "Autoadjust backlight by idle time" - a smooth decrease in light as the omission of the CCP.

Battery

E-Ten G600 is equipped with a lithium-ion battery 1440 mAh, as his predecessor. Capacity is quite decent, but let's not forget that we face communicator, so even with the GPS-module, which in itself is pretty hungry. So potestiruem time.

Testing was performed with a full charge before the warning "Main battery low" in four different modes.
• Stress test. GSM-module, Bluetooth and GPS enabled, the brightness and volume maximum, the unit lost in a series of "hard" video. Hours - 1 hour 50 minutes.
• Normal operation. GSM and GPS-module is included, Bluetooth - off. Speaker volume was set at half the maximum brightness - in the first division of the minimum. Device is lost in a cycle of regular video. Hours - 4 hours 50 min.
• Reading e-books. Bluetooth - off, the lights - in the first division of the minimum, the reading program was carried Haali Reader mode avtoskrolla. Hours - 7 hours 20 min.
• Play audio. Bluetooth and the screen - are off. Play was performed on a set of headphones attached.Used the program GS Player, files with a bitrate of 192-256 KBps played with the memory card. Hours - 8 hours 40 min.
• Playing audio via Bluetooth-headset. Bluetooth-enabled module, the volume put up half. Use headphones Sonorix OBH-0110. Hours - 4 hours 17 min.
• Standby mode. Opening hours - just over four days.

But looks like the communicator on the background of "classmates": In general, E-Ten G500 can not be assigned to the record for most time of work, but poor results of his test, too, will not name. As with all the neighbors in the class, the machine is designed for the average work day. Active users are advised to always keep the charger nearby. Incidentally, the latter also not be confused especially small runtime system, because, being involved for car navigation, G500 can always a little "snack" on-board network. Fortunately, a special charger from the cigarette lighter is in his normal kit.

Wireless interfaces

Programm Wireless Manager - Centre for the management of all wireless capabilities of the device - from the phone module to the Bluetooth.

GSM

In the E-Ten G500 is installed quad-band (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) GSM-module. Data transfer may be a protocol GPRS Class 10 (3 slots to accept, 2 to transfer). Unfortunately, E-Ten has not embed into their communicators support vysoskorostnogo data transfer standard EDGE, it is not in the device. All phone functions normally performs built-in application Windows Mobile Phone, pretty easy to learn.

E-Ten G500 supports all the standard features of GSM-networks:
• call barring
• waiting
• call forwarding
• AON
• Voicemail
• index of the network and broadcast messages.

Acceptance and sending SMS messages in the standard application of the operating system - Messaging. To create an MMS is a special supplement - MMS Composer. For speed dialing uses a proprietary utility Frequency Dialing. It is also possible to organize a "black" and "white" lists of subscribers using the utility Call Filter. In general, the functionality of the phone module is absolutely the same as that of its predecessor M600, nothing has changed. With regard to such an important moment of the phone as the communication quality with the original G500 has a small problem, manifested for some users in the form of an echo effect or metallic voice. Resolve this issue will help audiopatch released E-Ten. Learn more about where to download and how to install the update can be found in our forum. By the way, there talked about the release of new firmware for the machines, which helps deal with a number of other equally annoying bugs.

Bluetooth

As stated above, our hero is equipped with Bluetooth 2.0, which is controlled by the drivers own production E-Ten, is built on standard Bluetooth drivers from Microsoft. For the first time such an option Bluetooth control was tested on a model M600 and it seems liked the producers and users. All necessary services are configured in a single interface, instability and disruption almost not noticed. The program is integrated Bluetooth Manager Utility Connection Wizard, which allows a novice to configure any service interface. Let's see what opportunities are "blue tooth" will be available to users of G500. Firstly, it is, of course, search and connect Bluetooth-enabled devices. For example, with a cell phone. Secondly, work with Bluetooth-headsets and devices allowing hands-free communication. Third, synchronization with your desktop PC with the ability to exchange data. And finally, work with the necessary data as a PC on your device, and with the device to your PC. And finally, we mention another profile, which became available to users even in version Bluetooth 1.2. It's about newfangled A2DP, which allows voproizvodit (for example, through a wireless headset) stereo sound quality. About him tell you a little later.

GPS-navigation

You have not forgotten that we face not only the device, but the navigation device? Excellent! It's time to test it. Thus, in the E-Ten G500 navigation module is installed on the chipset SiRFstar III. Quite a fresh solution shows good sensitivity and positioning accuracy. However, we are repeatedly told about it (eg here). The first inclusion is performed on a conventional narrow city street in cloudy weather. After only a three minute cold start CCP saw 12 satellites and recorded signal from the 8 of them. The result is certainly worthy. Further testing was carried out using the navigation Systems Pocket GPS Pro (version 2.4.199) with a map of Moscow. On this program we are repeatedly told in our surveys, therefore, not repeat it here. Details about PocketGPS you'll find at her site - www.pocketgps.ru. On the possibilities of the latest available version is available here. The screenshots below you can see how the full version.

PocketGPS Pro: download the program

Settings PocketGPS Pro

Routing

Marshurt laid

G500 was placed under the windshield in the standard holder, an external antenna is not used. The results pleased. CCP loses its signal only where and relies decent GPS-receiver - a wide bridges and in tunnels. In other situations, ETen G500 does its job as "excellent." Especially gratifying is that now this device is sold complete with a fully functional commercial version PocketGPS Pro at a price per unit. Thus, the user gets ready to use navigation solution plus communicator "in one bottle."

Multimedia

Sound

Audio path remains unchanged. The sound is quite loud and clear.The headset is still equipped with a passive volume control and answer button, which can be reprogrammed. Unfortunately, the bass level is still quite weak, which is not very pleasant to those who are going to use the G500 as an MP3-player. It's nice that now the recording level can be adjusted separately for voice recording, phone calls and conversations with Bluetooth-headset. Have E-Ten G500 is another interesting feature in terms of audio capabilities - to support the transfer stereo via Bluetooth, using the new protocol A2DP, which appeared in the version of Bluetooth 1.2. True, when testing this feature with headphones Sonorix OBH-0110, it was observed that the quality of the transmitted stream is poor. Practically non-existent upper and lower frequencies, the sound quality would suit only a very undemanding users. By the very same functionality no gripes, headphones on the first attempt were "paired" with the communicator, no involuntary breaks connection was not observed. With regard to the dynamics of E-Ten G500, then call in a noisy place and can not hear, will not save even activated vibration, working with the ordinary as a pair, so we recommend to use the headset if you do not want to miss anything. By the way, headset jack at the E-Ten G500 is not too comfortable - 2.5 mm, so that the selection of alternative "ears" and have to buy an adapter for them.

FM-radio

E-Ten G500, unlike its competitors has a very valuable fichey - built-in radio. However, until recently, take advantage of this with the owners of the device was not possible. Now, when the E-Ten has released a special program G500 FM Radio 1.0, allows you to work with the receiver, anyone can download it and install on your device. In an antenna device supports headset, without the radio will not work. To install the program copy the contents of the archive in the folder \ windows on the E-Ten, then make a shortcut on FMtuner.exe and run the receiver. In the application everything is also pretty simple.On the main screen are buttons for the tuner search for stations off the screen (in the form of stars), the scale of the volume control and mute. The top is displayed the frequency at which is currently in the receiver, the radio station without a name or other information transmitted by FM. Necessary wave is easy to find either through the usual rewind, or click on the indicator of the current frequency. In this case, you will see a box the exact input frequency, resembling in appearance a normal telephone panel with buttons Ok and Cancel buttons at the bottom. Also in the annex provides the opportunity to bookmark your favorite radio station, hold the stylus on the 1.5 second socket on the right. In general, everything is simple and without any frills. For the doubters in their own strength provides very short Help. As for the quality of work, the receiver listens G500 noise and small distortion. In general, it is quite usable. In addition, good catches and holds the frequency. We tested the E-Ten at the reception at 107 MHz.

Luggage

Built-in camera, again borrowed from the previous model, resolution - 1.3 megapixel. No improvement in the quality of images has not happened. On the possibilities of the camera can be found in the review of M600. For the curious represent examples of photos taken at the G500.

Software

In the E-Ten G500 has the latest version of the operating system Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition, a list of full-time programs, which can be found in almost any of our review. Tell better about the additional software, which, of course, decorate and make it more user-friendly devices E-Ten. First on stage - handy plugin for launching applications QuickLink. The second - a nice looking alternative shell for launching programs and quick access to system settings - M-Desk. The default is caused by a button with an icon Home. Has a lot of options and opportunities. Another good thing - a program for Pocket PC voice control Voice Commander, which is quite easy to tame by a very good-looking of the mechanism of recognition: works with voice tags, as well as with conventional teams. There have G500 and two graphics editor - to work with images (Image Maker) and for editing MMS (Image Wizard). Branded utility Scenarios can help to quickly set up the brightness, volume and vibration alert mode. G500 cmozhet render good service as a GPRS-modem for your laptop. With this program helps Modem Link. As the curtain - a small plugin that shows battery life on the screen of Today, so it will not have to look into the configuration section.

Conclusions

E-Ten G500 - smartphone, designed to fill in the model number of the company formed as a result of market trends GPS-niche. In fact, we have the same E-Ten M600, in which Wi-Fi module is replaced with a GPS-receiver. It is this point to consider when choosing between the G500 and other apparatus. Thus, the device as a full-fledged navigator will be particularly interesting to motorists and users who lead active lifestyles.If you just need a Wi-Fi, but completely satisfied with the functionality of this machine, you can either take advantage of the market periphery in the form of WLAN-module on the cards miniSD (for example, from Pretec), or wait for the next device E-Ten, which, according to employees, will be a hybrid of the M600 and G500. Expected release date - this autumn. Another undoubted trump G500, as well as all the devices from E-Ten - this is their low price, usually fully justified. In this light, is particularly interesting that the communicators of the brand, supplied by "MakTsentr, completed the full version of navigation software PocketGPS Pro 2. At the same retail price of devices will remain the same - $ 670. Is called a kit - E-Ten G500 Pro.

Pros:
• turnkey solution for car navigation + communicator
• FM-tuner
• good set of embedded software
• reasonable price

Cons:
• large size and weight
• low battery life.

The authors, translation:

Smartphone HTC MTeoR: lightweight steel Breeze from the shores of Taiwan

The company HTC, it seems, continues to increase the rate of production of new devices are constantly reducing the period between the presentation of models. Current 2006 promises to be a particularly "fruitful" in this regard: at the beginning of the year was presented to the communicator Qtek S200, not so long ago - an elegant folding Smartphone Qtek 8500 (HTC Star Trek), and now the world saw another new line of smartphones - HTC MTeoR (pronounced "meteor"). Until recently announced re-branding of this device was planned to enter the name Qtek 8600 on the basis of the well-known to you through our news platform HTC Breeze. Frankly, I personally do not think smartphones running Windows Mobile riding comfort, though, I know there are people ready to argue with that hoarse. However, it should still recognize that from a technical point of view of the latest smartphones from HTC is very, very bad, and even the design of devices is getting better from model to model. But back to the hero of our review. MTeoR I definitely attribute to the category of business models: a rigorous metal body, good communication capabilities (but no support for Wi-Fi), comfortable keyboard, the latest version of Windows Mobile 5.0 with support for service Push Mail. Looks like the phone is very representative, this is not ashamed to pull out an expensive jacket at any business meeting. Closest competitors MTeoR, perhaps, will be the business of Nokia smartphones based on Series 60 Platform, such as the recently announced E50.

Specifications HTC MTeoR:
• Operating system: Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone
• Processor: Samsung 2442 with a 300 MHz
• Memory: 128 MB ROM (ROM), 64MB RAM (RAM)
• Screen: 240x320 pixels, diagonal 2.2 inch, 262000 colors TFT LCD with LED-backlit
• Expandable memory: microSD slot
• Wireless interfaces: UMTS 2100MGts 3-band GSM / GPRS / EDGE 900/1800/1900 MHz; infrared; Bluetooth 2.0 (no support EDR)
• Battery: Lithium-Ion battery, 1200 mAh
• Audio: microphone, speaker jack for stereo (combined with built-in miniUSB)
• Camera: CMOS, 1,3 M
• Dimensions: 112h49h14.8 mm
• Weight: 115 g with battery

A small note on the M / V. Since the MTeoR is designed to work in UMTS, originally planned to equip it with a second camera with VGA on the front for video calls. Described in this review unit is a - with two cameras. However, as it became known, in the final version of the HTC declined from the second chamber. As we have seen, characteristics MTeoR (except support for UMTS) is fairly standard for smart phones today. Some very frustrating lack MTeoR support Wi-Fi, but it is, in my opinion, while too much for the phone. On the other hand, with the development of VoIP services and the expansion of Wi-Fi coverage such option may become more urgent.

Completion

Complete MTeoR absolutely standard for all recent HTC devices, includes:
• Actually phone
• Charger
• Cable to synchronize with your desktop PC
• Battery
• Wired stereo headset with call answer key and a volume control (with built-in miniUSB - there will be problems in the event of a breakdown, a similar finding would be clearly difficult!)
• Waist pouch with belt clip and magnetic clasp, very decent quality
• User Guide
• CD-ROM with ActiveSync 4.1

Appearance

I've been thinking, what epithet is more appropriate for MTeoR, but in my head but stupid "trendy" did not come. Perhaps the most appropriate word - "solid". Sleek machine will not name, but solid - yes. Again, a business phone, which, however, is more appropriate for men. Classic, and I would even say conservative design would limit the potential user audience almost immediately at the first look at the device.However, the charges brought against you in the photo sample does not quite match the final product, changes in appearance - a little lower. In the meantime, we note that a thin (14.8 mm) metal body is made in two colors - metallic and black. The upper section is made of rubberized plastic, very pleasant to the touch. Button in the test sample are also black, but in the final version they will be light, and covering the metal part of the body slightly change color. Fairly standard set of buttons for smartphones with Windows Mobile: in addition to alphanumeric keys there are two "soft keys", a joystick, the navigation buttons on the main screen (Home), call the browser "Back", "Defiance", "Reject". On the upper side of the device is placed shutdown button (also fairly standard for smartphones HTC). The right of the screen - the buttons run the camera and voice dialing, as well as infrared. To the left of the screen - another innovation HTC: scroll wheel jog-dial. Actually, this is not the wheel - it does not rotate 360 ​​degrees, such as smartphones Sony Ericsson, but simply rotated through an angle up and down, and may also pressed as a button, for which it made a small ledge. Usually jog dial is used for scrolling text and control device, and during the conversation also controls the volume of the speaker. I can not say that it is very convenient to make (the wheel would have been better), but overall, not bad. Also on the left side of the hull bottom is a connector for microSD cards with a rubber stopper (card can be removed and inserted without powering down the device - clear progress compared to previous models of smartphones, where to set or change the card had to remove the battery). Behind is a connector for external antenna (under rubber plug), camera lens cover, battery compartment and SIM-card. In MTeoR used rather strange connector for SIM-card: he hid deep in the hull and remove the SIM-card can only be pulling the plastic "tongue" (it is visible in the photo), just as some devices made for the battery. The reliability of this mechanism is questionable, especially when frequent changes of SIM-cards. At the bottom we see the miniUSB connector for connecting to a computer (he used to connect a headset). Above the display are two LED indicators - Network / charger and Bluetooth. The quality of manufacture and assembly - perfect: no backlash, cracks, etc. Still, this device business class, position, as they say, oblige. It is also very pleased with the joystick - much nicer than in the same 8300/8310. The only caveat is perhaps only to the scroll wheel - it tonkovato and not too convenient for depression (cut into finger). In the photos we have put a number of HTC MTeoR and Qtek 8300, which with some stretch of the imagination be called the predecessor (also a metal case). MTeoR thinner his colleagues, though somewhat greater than its width and length. Again, the final version of the device will look spectacular present.

HTC MTeoR and Qtek 8300

Processor and memory

In MTeoR HTC has finally renounced the use of a relatively slow processor TI OMAP (incidentally, the reason for this is likely that the use of radio production with support for Qualcomm UMTS). MTeoR works on the Samsung 2442 with a clock speed of 300MHz. In addition to higher clock speed (300MHz vs. 195 in 83xx), this processor has a 32-bit memory bus (as opposed to 16-bit processors from TI). Taken together, this leads to what MTeoR runs significantly faster than their "colleagues" - Qtek 8300/8310 and Qtek 8500. Despite the higher clock speed, CPU from Samsung is not so much "hungry". Memory capacity is also more than decent: a user get around 77Mb of flash memory (from 128MB) and about 28Mb of RAM to run programs. As mentioned earlier, MTeoR equipped with a slot for memory cards microSD (formerly TransFlash). Standard, this relatively new, so cards larger than 1GB I have not seen (but have heard that there have 2GB), but this, in my opinion, is more than enough. In addition, the card can be installed in the device, turning off the phone and not removing the battery, which is also a very big plus (it's one of the first smartphones from HTC, where to change the card does not need to remove the back cover and battery).

Screen

Screen is simply gorgeous MTeoR (the same used in the model 8500), it is much brighter and gives a richer picture than the device's screen series 83xx. In general, this is fairly standard TFT LCD screen with a diagonal of 2.2 inches and 240x320 pixels. Backlight level is not regulated (standard on all smartphones HTC).

Battery

MTeoR features powerful enough for a phone battery capacity 1200mAch. As shown, it is enough that the regime of intensive use (always active GPRS-connection for Push Mail, phone calls, etc.) lasted somewhere and a half to two days. Quite a decent result, especially considering the fact that not everyone will enjoy the features Push Mail, and therefore, and GPRS-session will not be permanently active. Without using GPRS device on a single charge lasted me about 3.5 days. Of course, constantly connected with Bluetooth-headset, listening to music, reading books, etc. time will be reduced very significantly - to about one-half days.

Wireless interfaces

In all new models HTC present application Comms Manager, which manages the communications capabilities the unit. Our hero - not the exception. In general, all standard: a telephone and Bluetooth. There is also a button on the function of Microsoft Direct Push, is responsible for the work of Push Mail. The service appeared in Windows Mobile 5, version AKU2 (something like Serivce Pack 2 for Windows Mobile). Now, if your company uses a mail server is Microsoft Exchange, you can enjoy the benefits of the new service Push Mail. All that is required - this is GPRS-connection, and no additional settings. When using the service client e-mail program does not need to constantly check e-mail - the mail server itself downloads the messages to your mobile phone as they arrive. The process itself is simple enough: through ActiveSync installed HTTPS-connection that the server and sends data directly to the machine. In practice, it works quickly and without problems. Support Wi-Fi, as mentioned earlier, no, and maybe it is quite a serious omission in view of the active development of services to VoIP. As far as I could understand a closer acquaintance with the device, Wi-Fi module is physically unable to place on the motherboard.

Phone

In MTeoR used a tri-band (900/1800/1900MHz) GSM / GPRS / EDGE module, and 2100 MHz UMTS module is manufactured by Qualcomm. The phone can automatically switch between GSM and UMTS, in addition, you can manually specify which of the standards is preferable. You can also manually specify which frequency band (Europe / America / Japan) should be used. The phone also supports all the standard features of cellular networks, such as: prohibition / forwarding / call waiting, a fixed set, STK, etc. Plus, as befits the phone, there is the possibility of profile control (which for some reason still do not have a communicator).

Bluetooth

HTC is committed to Microsoft - in the MTeoR is used all the same teeth on nauseam stack from Microsoft, with all its "charm" in a not too user-friendly interface. The only innovation - support for Bluetooth 2.0 (but without EDR) and the presence of the profile A2DP, which allows listening to music through wireless headphones, which should please the fans.

Otherwise, it supports all the necessary profiles:
• Generic Access Profile - basic profile of Bluetooth, is responsible for maintaining communication between devices, the identification of other available profiles, as well as for security.
• Serial Port Profile provides emulation of an RS-232 interface or USB.
• Object Push Profile controls the exchange of electronic business cards.
• DUN (Dial-Up Networking) Profile allows you to use your smartphone as a modem, for example, to access the Internet from a laptop.
• Handsfree Profile - headset.
• A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) - a wireless audio playback stereokachestva.
• AVRCP (Audio / Video Remote Control Profile) - wireless control playback of audio and video.
• HID (Human Interface Device) Profile - connecting wireless peripherals such as keyboards.

I did not raise any problems with either the headset or the exchange of data with a desktop computer and other devices. Everything worked more or less stable.

Infrared

Despite the fact that the IR port is already becoming an anachronism in the MTeoR it is still present in normal (SIR) version.

Luggage

In MTeoR, oddly enough, use a camera with a resolution of 1.3 megapixel, while the majority of new products have already passed the version with 2 MP. The camera is called a single button on the body and gives the picture itself that neither is mediocre quality (I have not found specific differences from the camera Qtek 8310). Macro mode, as in the latest Communicators (S200, etc.), no flash is also absent. For mid-2006 smartphone, of course, rather weakly, but it seems to me, a potential user MTeoR camera never will be especially needed. Moreover, in a corporate environment cameraphones lately are not welcome.

Opportunities for camera settings are standard:
• Permission (Small, Medium, Large, 1M)
• Quality (Basic, Normal, Fine, Super Fine)
• Shooting mode (Photo, Video, MMS Video, Contacts Picture, Picture Theme, Sports)
• Effect (Grayscale, Sepia, Cool)
• Zoom (1x, 2x)
• White Balance
• Self-timer

Here are examples of photos taken with the camera HTC MTeoR.

Sound

Audio path the device is fairly standard - the sound of the internal dynamics of a clear and loud, the maximum level is enough to hear the interlocutor, even in conditions of strong noise. Built-in voice recorder program, Voice Notes is very ascetic, and only allows to record, play, rename, and delete records. No adjustments in the program there. The quality of voice records, in most cases is quite normal if the distance to the interlocutor does not exceed 5 m.

Pre-installed software

In addition to the standard for WM5 Smartphone applications, MTeoR ROM includes a set of programs for viewing office documents (Word / Excel / PowerPoint / PDF) ClearVue Suite, which, in general, once again underlines the business-oriented device (same Qtek 8500 software is available CD-ROM, and it must be installed separately). ClearVue program will be useful to those who receive the e-mail attached documents, and wants to be able to view them. On the editing of speech, of course, is not. However, and view documents on a small smartphone screen - an occupation for a strong spirit (although others are unlikely to take in business:). In general, however, ClearVue not bad enough to cope with their responsibilities. Everything else is standard: the browser Internet Explorer, Task Manager Tasks, player Windows Media, daily Calendar, a program of messaging Messaging, Address Book, Contacts, ActiveSync, call log Call History, Settings Panel Settings, Voice Recorder Voice Notes, graphics viewer, and video Pictures & Video, a program using the camera, Camera, Comm Manager, File Manager, File Explorer, a program to work with Java-applets Midlet Manager, Pocket MSN, SIM Manager, Speed ​​Dial Speed ​​Dial, Task Manager, Task Manager, a program recording Video Recorder, Calculator , retrieves files Download Agent, wireless modem, and two games - Bubble Breaker with legendary Solitaire Solitaire. MTeoR will be shipped to Russia for a full Russian localization, from Microsoft. No innovation is not here - all the usual wryly translated, and the mass of healthy laughter lovers of the Russian language is provided. However, in addition to Russian, the firmware contains a user interface in several European languages, including English.

Conclusions

The new smartphone has turned in some sense a compromise: on the one hand, a conservative appearance, decent battery life, a good set of built-in software, support Push Mail, and on the other - slightly abridged communication capabilities (no Wi-Fi). The high cost of HTC MTeoR (original price for it in retail outlets is not less than $ 650) makes it purely a niche device that is aimed only at a narrow group of users. However, it seems to me, HTC is this and achieved. In the Russian retail smartphone will appear in late summer.

Cons:
• Lack of Wi-Fi
• High price

Pros:
• Metal case
• Beautiful screen
• Fast processor
• Good battery life
• Supports Bluetooth 2.0 and A2DP

The authors, translation:

Mobile panorama of the week, issue number 1

HPCru represents a new heading - "Mobile panorama of the week." This is a brief summary of the most striking events in the past week. Especially the material will be of interest to those who follow the news production of smart phones, PDAs, and peripherals for these devices and is afraid to miss the most important. In addition to accurate information in our panorama also includes the rumors, which have become an integral part of the mobile industry. Before you - the first issue of the digest. Discuss, comment, make suggestions and complaints.

Treo with WM 5.0 now in Europe: the triumph or defeat? ...

Undoubtedly, the main event of last week Steels awaited announcement from the companies, Palm and Vodafone, which have revealed the world a new smartphone Treo 750v. This is the second Treo that is running Windows Mobile. The first was intended for the U.S., while a novelty - for the European market. It is only natural that this event has caused a storm of feedback, and not only positive but also sharply negative. Immediately after the announcement, negative opinions were particularly numerous. Reached even before the harsh statements such as «Palm is dead." Such a reaction is understandable. Has had the disappointment of "not impressive" functionality of the communicator, first and foremost, lack of support for wireless networking Wi-Fi. Treo 750v is intended for the European market, where Wi-Fi network is very developed and rather strange that he did not have in its arsenal of capabilities, which already is almost the standard for modern devices of this class. It is important that the Treo 750v has a small size (which not only has advantages, but also causes some disadvantages), square screen 240x240 pixels does not support Wi-Fi and can work only with cards miniSD. Simply put, a communicator, more close to the "smart" phone than PDA. Due to lack of connectivity SDIO cards, he loses even released in the U.S. earlier this year, Treo 700w, which also runs on Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition, but designed for networks of CDMA (there is support for EV-DO). If you take the device based on Windows Mobile 5.0, it is closest to their tactical and technical characteristics of the Treo 750v approaches to such models as the Motorola Q, Samsung SGH-i320 and HTC S620. However, as would not like to compare this unit with the recent innovations in the same form factor, with a pure soul can not do that. Featured Moto Q (so far only for networks of CDMA), presented just last week HTC S620 (Excalibur), and especially - as shown at IFA 2006 Samsung SGH-i600, though each have their advantages over the Treo 750v, but are completely different class of devices - smartphones, not communicators. All of these machines running the operating system Windows Mobile 5.0 for Smartphone, while the Treo 750v - based on Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition. That is, at least, these competitors are new Treo can not be controlled using the touch screen, which they simply absent. On the other hand, if we take not smartphones and communicators in a similar form factor, you'll find that a lot more opportunities they have and the more impressive dimensions. For example, when a large scale, recently released HP iPAQ hw6915 or the upcoming Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox T800 noticeable benefit to performance. They have Wi-Fi support and GPS, and T800 - More maps and SDIO. Although, of course, can not but note the lack iPAQ hw6915 support for third-generation networks. Even last year's model HP iPAQ hw6515, running on Windows Mobile 2003 SE and losing Treo 750v in terms of support for 3G-networks, has an integrated GPS-module and an additional slot for SD / SDIO. Of all of the above we can conclude that perhaps users of cellular communication and needed some kind of interim solution between small and large smart phones communicators, but providing such a compromise in size, Treo 750v is clearly not met the expectations of future buyers in terms of functionality.Too "mediocre" to get a solution from him obviously expecting a lot more. We recall once again the main features of Treo 750v. In this machine there is no external antenna, which were fitted with the old Treo. This is a clear plus new items. The device not only supports network GSM (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), standard GPRS, EDGE, and UMTS. HSDPA support is not incorporated, despite the fact that Vodafone is one of the first European operators providing services on the basis of this standard. Also in the assets of the unit has built-in QWERTY-keyboard, touch screen TFT-LCD with a resolution of 240x240 pixels and 65K colors, 1.3-megapixel camera (front camera for video telephony is not provided), 60 MB user available memory, Samsung processor with a clock frequency 300 MHz slot for memory cards miniSD, Interface Bluetooth (support for stereo headsets). Dimensions are 112.9 h59, 3h21, 3 mm, and weight - 150 grams. Claimed battery life on a single charge of talktime - up to 5.5 hours and standby time - up to 200 hours.

Two new products from i-mate, or the first few steps without HTC

Another example of devices based on Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition with a similar form factor - announced this week, i-mate JAQ. This device has not caused such a sensation as the Treo 750v, but it definitely deserves attention. Yes, i-mate JAQ more than Treo (sizes - 122h71h22, and weight - 160 grams with battery), but it has one advantage, which could definitely get to put up with his size, - large 2.8 "touch screen with resolution of QVGA (320x240 pixels), which is oriented horizontally, and will not "confuse" users and the application of its "square" (many do not like). Summary of the characteristics of i-mate JAQ: TI OMAP850 processor with 200 MHz, 64 MB RAM and 128 MB of ROM, slot for miniSD, Bluetooth 1.2, Infrared. On the other hand, unlike the Treo 750v, Communicator does not support third-generation networks - only GSM (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), GPRS and EDGE. About built-in Wi-Fi vendors did not care, as well as the possibility to use the card format different from the miniSD. The eye catches the absence of built-in camera, but the "minus" a lot of business people just at hand, which is why HP is often releases their PDAs and communicators in two versions - with and without a camera. Actually, i-mate JAQ looks like a possible competitor models HP iPAQ hw6910/hw6915, immediately losing them due to lack of support for Wi-Fi, GPS-receiver, a little smaller display, a feeble processor, and so on. It is interesting that a real competitor for i-mate JAQ - HTC S620. According to its characteristics, this smartphone is closer to that communicator than the HP iPAQ hw6910/hw6915. HTC S620 has a smaller display (2.4 inches instead of 2.8) is absent, as it should be a smartphone, touchscreen, a microSD card slot instead of miniSD, but the same processor and same amount of memory. In addition, the asset of this machine 1.3-megapixel camera and support for wireless networking Wi-Fi. The size and weight HTC S620 also benefits from i-mate JAQ (111,5 h62.5h12, 8 mm at 130 grams against 122h71h22 mm at 160 g, respectively). Simultaneously with the release of Communicator, the company announced a smartphone called the i-mate SPL, reminiscent design stable association with the Motorola SLVR. Size it really is small (especially thickness) - h49h12 114.5 mm, weight is also ckromen - only 102 grams with battery. In this case, the device works under the operating system Windows Mobile 5.0 for Smartphone. In some ways analogous i-mate SPL can be called unless the Qtek 8500 (i-mate Smartflip, platform HTC STRTrk), if we ignore such a fundamental difference as the form factor - the clamshell instead of monoblocks. It is rather difficult to imagine a person who, gaining smartphone in the first place, will take care of such "trendy" options as thinness, lightness, luggage and other such luxuries. This approach is more peculiar to buyers conventional mobile handsets.Nevertheless, the emergence of such patterns suggests an emerging trend - image direction in the design of smart phones. For a modest-sized smartphone features a good SPL. Display diagonal 2.2 ", QVGA (240x320 pixels), 2-megapixel camera, 64 MB RAM and 128 MB ROM, TI OMAP processor clocked at 200 MHz, the slot for short memory miniSD, Interface Bluetooth. The device supports three frequency bands Networks GSM (850/1800/1900 MHz or either 900/1800/1900 MHz), GPRS. Support for EDGE not, however, as Wi-Fi. However, if we neglect 2-5 mm in thickness, it can be easily find a more functional and user-friendly machine. Separately should be noted that i-mate JAQ and i-mate SPL are the first models that were designed for i-mate is not Taiwan's HTC, and other manufacturers. Roads i-mate, HTC went after how HTC started making mobile devices under its own brand, and i-mate was forced to seek another partner for the design and manufacturing of its products. So this pair of new products can be regarded as a sort of trial balloon. According to rumors, i-mate throughout the year is going to bring to the market about ten new models.

Apple and Microsoft Announce players. Who's who?

Two more high-profile announcement this week are in the area of ​​portable players. Apple and Microsoft each were marked by new vehicles. Apple updated the lineup with its famous iPod. Was represented by a model with 80 GB hard drive. In addition, the players based on hard drives are now more vivid displays, and increased duration of work on a single charge. Players iPod nano got aluminum shells and merry colors, instead of black and white. Hours on a single battery charge has also increased - were 24 hours of music playback. In addition, the model was released with a hard disk to 8 GB, and, for a suggested price of $ 249. Earlier, about the same cost the 4 GB model. The biggest change has undergone a miniature player without a display - iPod Shuffle. In size it has decreased almost by half compared to its predecessors - to 41h27, 2x10, 4 mm, and weight - up to 15 grams. Now the player is equipped with a special clamp, with which it can be easily mounted to the clothing. In addition, the case of a new Shuffle has an aluminum, announced 12 hours of battery life, as in the old version. The new iPod Shuffle will be available only in version 1 GB. Recommended price for it is $ 79. Can not say that the company has offered something completely new, rather, is in step with the times and does not cause competitors to overtake a niche in a busy day. Rumors about the release of the mythical phone iPhone from Apple, expected more than a year, once again there were only rumors, the masses were disappointed once again. Did not disappoint waiting sensations and omnivorous Microsoft. Fully in accordance with the preliminary rumors she presented her player Zune. Information about it long before the official announcement was in prosperity, thanks largely to the so-called "controlled" leak, which is preceded by many corporate presentations, creating pre-hype. So, here's what Microsoft is going to slay Apple, the main competitor at the moment in music players. Like the iPod, a Zune is a music online store - Zune Marketplace, where you can buy music for this player. As expected, the new player was equipped with a wireless-enabled Wi-Fi, allowing it to connect to a PC, and transfer content from one another Zune. However, the ability to buy music via Wi-Fi directly from the Zune is not provided, ie it will have to connect to a computer. Yes, and copies of tracks sent from Zune to Zune, you can listen to only 3 times in three days, and then have to purchase your favorite tune in the Zune Marketplace, however, this rule does not apply to "home recording". In addition, Zune boasts a 3-inch screen (the iPod displays a diagonal 2.5 inches), QVGA (can work in landscape mode, it is convenient to view the video), and a 30 GB hard drive and FM-tuner. Declared support for images, video and audio formats, JPEG, WMV, MPEG-4, H.264, MP3 AAC and WMA (unprotected). Zune will be available in three color versions - with the body in black, white and brown. Player is available in stores for holiday shopping season. Official information on the price yet. As stated by Microsoft, Zune - it's an entire platform, which consists of the player, service Zune Marketplace, as well as an online community where presumably will meet fans of this device. Possible directions of development of the idea Zune already started to spread corporation. At a press conference on the issue of new items, general manager of the marketing department to promote the brand Zune, Chris Stephenson (Chris Stephenson), "blurted out" to journalists that "the way out the phone under the brand name Zune, of course, is part of the company's plans." As we can see, Microsoft is not going to give Apple even in a small, as rumors of a music phone under its own brand. One can only hope that this is the beginning of the path Zune and then he will have new interesting features, such as interface support Bluetooth.

Rumours of the week: heir HTC Universal and communicator of the two keyboards

We now turn to the region of rumors, assumptions and prior information. Despite the fact that HTC is literally on Sept. 7 announced four new products - two smartphone (HTC S620 and HTC S310) and two device (HTC P3300 and HTC P3600), and maybe just because of this, the network began to emerge rumors about new development company . In particular, spread information about the upcoming successor communicator HTC Universal, known at the moment under such names as Qtek 9000, i-mate JasJar, O2 Xda Exec, Grundig GR980, Vodafone VPA IV and T-Mobile MDA Pro. Heir to appear in the rumors, codenamed HTC Omni. It is assumed that they will inherit the basic features of Universal - a non-standard form factor and display with a resolution VGA (640x480 pixels). Will be able to work in high-speed data transfer standard HSDPA in addition to supporting simple networks of third generation UMTS. Will also change the processor - an Intel at Samsung. HTC Omni will be thinner than its predecessor, and will get additional control buttons. A second display, similar to the second screen of the clamshell, which he dreamed many owners of Universal, and will not appear. Device that is called a niche, an amateur - is too cumbersome to be happy to use it as a phone, but on the other hand - rapidly developing ultramobile PC, UMPC, which have far more processing power, questioned its future is as a portable computer . Next news is the semi-official character - at the last Los Angeles show CTIA company UTStarcom has made PR-share, in the popular lately among the producers of style - napustit fog, prompting interest from the public. She showcased at its booth images of future new products, not giving any information about them. In one of the novelties was identified by the communicator, developed by the same Taiwanese company HTC, codenamed HTC Libra.Its main feature is the presence of two keyboards - digital, located under the display and QWERTY, slide out the side. Very controversial decision, because the expense of the numeric keypad will either have to sacrifice screen size or increasing the size of the device. Judging by the pictures, HTC has chosen first, so Libra will play their fellows in the class, for example, HTC TyTN, in the size of the screen. As a company representative told reporters HTC, PDA Libra will be lower than currently produced by HTC devices with retractable keyboard. This confirms once more the story of the small display. HTC Libra in a version for CDMA networks will be released in the first quarter of next year, and is planned support for standard high-speed data EV-DO Revision A. Version of GSM networks is also planned for next year. Another rumor flashed relatively small device Treo Nitro. Supposedly this device will be a direct heir to the Treo 650 smartphone and will be called the Treo 680. Accordingly, the work will be under the control of traditional operating system for Treo - Palm OS. Yet known about him the following: display with a resolution of 320x320 pixels (as in many beloved Treo 650), Blazer web browser version 4.5, the same that the Treo 700p, and also, possibly, support for standard EDGE. Of the earlier rumors about Nitro known that it would be "budget" model with an internal antenna. If the assumption is justified, the novelty may be to the taste of lovers of "good old Treo». It is assumed that the wait for her there are not too long - no more than a month.

Briefly about other events of the week

As usual, it was announced a few GPS-navigators, with dozens of music and media players, as well as many other gadgets. Here are some events have shown the most stand out from the crowd. SanDisk introduced miniSDHC card 4 GB. This is the most capacious flash-card to the dimensions of miniSD. On the map of this size, you can store more than 2 thousands of digital photos, more than a thousand music tracks or up to 8 hours of video in MPEG4. Release in the retail sale is scheduled for next year. The Korean company has released Reigncom Player iRiver S10, of comparable size with the new Pod shuffle (42h30h10, 8 mm), but equipped with the 1.15-dyuyomvym color display. By cons include shorter operating time (8 hours), a higher price - $ 165 and $ 207 for 1 and 2 GB models, respectively, and sales region - so far only in South Korea. Has released new firmware for communicators E-Ten M600. Among the features of the new firmware: the utility SIM manager, designed to copy contacts to and from a SIM-card Support Profile Bluetooth DUN / DCN (Dial-Up Networking), allowing the use of M600 + as a modem for a laptop or desktop computer, the error correction SIM Toolkit, encountered when receiving SMS messages. Download the new firmware can be as usual in the download section ROM and updates to the site support E-Ten. Organization Trusted Computing Group has released a draft specification of Mobile Trusted Module (MTM). This will enable Room creation in the future mobile phones, smartphones and communicators, equipped with MTM module, similar modules TPM (Trusted Platform Module), which are built into laptops. It is assumed that they would provide better security information to mobile phone, as well as reduce the risk of data loss. The analyst firm IDC said the next record sales of smartphones and communicators. Delivery of these devices in the second quarter of 2006 reached almost 20 million units. This is 1,9% more than the first quarter and by 42,1% more than the same period last year. Sustained growth in sales analysts associated primarily with increasing functionality, combined with declining prices. Antivirus McAfee VirusScan Mobile now available for devices based on Windows Mobile 5.0 (Phone Edition and Smartphone). The program provides safety from attacks via SMS, MMS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and other entry points.Automatically checked and cleaned the files, e-mail, text messaging, downloading from the Internet, IM-messages and attached files. Updates are obtained automatically in the background. Download McAfee VirusScan Mobile can be as usual from the "Program for PDA" on HPCru. The authors, translation: