Communicator T-Mobile MDA: like a PDA, like a mobile phone

Who among us is not fond of science fiction? Yes, navernoe all. In this case, you must remember that almost every singer of a brighter future "described in his novels or stories of unusual device, which easily operated on his heroes - individual communications. Moreover, variations on this theme have been a myriad of writers: the built-in rings and bracelets are universal to all possible com videophones and mikrotelefonov. But despite the diversity, almost all authors have sought to create in our minds the image of a universal "something" for instant communication anywhere in the world. According to the canons of the genre, the device was equipped, in addition, and a personal computer, and GPS-navigator, and systems for monitoring health and a lot more than that ... It seems that the very bright future has arrived, but as always casually, quietly:) Models with support for GPRS and Bluetooth are quietly beginning to afflict the primitive cell phones, cell phones, Microsoft devotes two operating systems, and gradually our eyes are born tiny device that is functionally approaching thus, fantastic. Yes, yes, we are talking about communicators - "hybrids" PDA and mobile phone. Well, it would seem, purchase something, and another - and live quietly, but no such luck.

Why do you need your device?

Imagine this situation: you are removing it from one pocket cell phone, dial the number and start talking. During the conversation, you have a need to get some additional information (e-mail, which you yesterday sent a colleague, or the text of the treaty, for example) and you currently are not in the office, and even worse - you do not have access to a PC or laptop and information as is always needed right now. What should I do? It's pretty simple - you pull out of another pocket handheld, which pre-recorded all the important data. And here you are standing somewhere on the street and are operating two devices simultaneously, as zavpravsky juggler. And if you want to burn something? Imagine, in one hand and a PDA in the other - a stylus, and the third - the portfolio, and cell phone wedged somewhere between ear and shoulder .... Oh, that's me! - Hand-then you have only two:)) What do you do? Headset, of course, saves a little bit, but it would be nice to all-in-one ": and the benefits of mobile communications and the ability to store, view and edit documents, and Internet access, and user-friendly screen, and a short note to leave, well, and Multimedia at your leisure. It is worth saying that such devices have often appeared in our reviews, and now the readers' attention is the communicator of the company T-Mobile - sleek and compact, but at the same time, functional and capable of solving a wide range of tasks.

Completion

Along with this telephone service PDA comes bundled with a protective leather case, belt clip for attaching to your belt, spare stylus, cradle, power adapter, AC adapter, headset, CD with drivers and software. At first glance, bloknotovidny cover makes pleasant impression: his flip-top lid is equipped with a magnetic clasp and adequately protects the display and casing of the communicator. Interestingly, in the "armor" T-Mobile does not lose its elegance. True, such a design cover some impact on the convenience of using the device during a call: the protective cover in this case it is better to bend the back, otherwise it slightly, but perceptibly begins to "iron" user on the head:)

Design and Ergonomics

Externally, the device resembles an ordinary Pocket PC family of Pocket PC: not the smallest sample, but not the biggest. The presence of an external antenna conjures up thoughts about the similarities with computers series iPAQ h5400 and h5500. Antenna sticking out - not typical for most handheld solution. In general (based on the design features of modern mobile phones), there is nothing to prevent producers to hide the antenna inside the device's true, then it would be very difficult to distinguish a device from the Pocket PC. A second difference is the layout of control buttons. At the bottom of the case instead of the usual set of five buttons, there were only three: the next five-way joystick with two buttons - "answer the call" and "cancel the call." The remaining two buttons (by default they are responsible for calling the application "Calendar" and "Contacts") moved into the upper part of the body and are located directly above the display.

Communicator T-Mobile MDA: a speaker and two buttons application

The location of a speaker and microphone must be admitted to be very successful because it is similar to the constructs of mobile phones. Therefore, even though the communicator and comes with a handsfree headset, you can completely do without her.

Communicator T-Mobile MDA: a microphone and lower controls

The microphone is not located in the center, and a little left of that, to a greater extent, it is convenient for righties. If you are in conversation like to keep your device in the left hand, then this bit will close the gap a microphone than to significantly reduce its sensitivity. At the bottom of the device is memory card slot MMC / SD. The only disadvantage of this arrangement - it's impossible to extract or insert the card when the device is in the cradle. The device just two button reset: soft reset button you can press the stylus, but to make hard rezet, the pen will roll out (inside there is a special needle). And finally, I note that to use the communicator would be an order of magnitude more comfortable if it were equipped with built-in Bluetooth. In such a case would be to completely abandon the wires and move on to the appropriate headset.

How would a PDA

T-Mobile is a full-fledged handheld computer, equipped with the mobile phone GSM-standard operating system Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 Phone Edition.

Processor

As the processor used is not the fastest to date, Intel StrongARM SA1110 processor with a clock frequency 206MGts.

Memory / extensibility

In Russia delivered two models communicator - Basis with 32MB onboard (31 MB are available) and Advanced with 64MB.RAM is my test sample is 64MB (of which 63.20 MB available), and ROM - 32MB. No special flash-disk to store user data there. As an external storage card, you can use standard MMC and SD. Slot, unfortunately, does not support SDIO, and therefore of any additional devices, performed in a standard SDIO, have to forget. The exception, perhaps, will make digital cameras from the company HTC Wallaby, designed just for this device. Of the other additional peripherals can use an external battery, tacked on to the rear panel.

Display

Backlit display of reflective type that modern PDAs is already an anachronism. All current models of handheld devices equipped with high-contrast display with backlight transflective type. Number of flowers is also not particularly happy: 4096 instead have become accustomed 65536. Resolution - the standard for Pocket PC - 320x240 pixels. Separately, it should be noted illumination. Unlike conventional handheld Pocket PC, PDA T-Mobile has steps adjusting the brightness, but if more accurate to say, there are only two positions: either the lights turned on or off. However, despite all this, the brightness and contrast is enough to take in information from the screen at any ambient light.

Audible indication

When an incoming call device can alert you via an ordinary tone (volume and type can be selected), the light display, vibrating alert, or all at once. You must click on the thumbnail image dynamics and choose one of three options: the sound is turned on, off or vibrate mode.

Food

As you know, it hurt any mobile phone and PDA - it's batteries. Requirements for miniature devices limit the size and weight of batteries, and developers have to find "middle ground" between size and battery capacity. Hybrid systems that combine two functions simultaneously, typically have very high demands on the battery, so it is not surprising that T-Mobile is set produced by the most advanced technology lithium-polymer battery for 1500mAch. However, the runtime can find below.

Performance

Performance was measured using the very popular now, SBP Benchmark test from the company SPB Software House. Frankly, the advantage of T-Mobile on the Pocket LOOX on all (except graphics) indices a little surprised. Old StrongARM not much inferior to the newer Intel PXA250 clocked at 400MHz.

Dimensions and weight

Dimensions - 129.5 h73, 7h17, 8 mm, and weight - 201g.Dimensions quite typical for most PDAs family PocketPC, but by weight of our device, but rather, closer to the handheld business class, like the iPAQ h5500 and Toshiba e750.

Software

Operating System Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 Phone Edition.

The set comes following software:
• Contacts
• Calendar
• Tasks
• Notes
• Inbox
• Pocket Word
• Pocket Excel
• Pocket Internet Explorer
• Microsoft Reader
• Microsoft Outlook (desktop)
• Terminal Services Client
• MSN Messenger
• Voice Recorder
• Windows Media Player
• Solitaire

How would the phone ...

Communicator has all the features of a standard cell phone, so customize it to the user already had to deal with cellular communications and is simple enough. Before working with a communicator should install SIM-card. To do this, on the left side of the case there is a special, closed the protective rubber cap hole.

Installing the SIM-card on the smartphone T-Mobile

Opening the rubber plug, insert the SIM card until it stops, as shown in the available in the same icon. It should be noted that the computer turns off as soon as you open the rubber plug - fuse (see photo). Be sure to close the lid after inserting the SIM card. From the perspective of the software Microsoft Pocket PC Phone Edition is different from just a pocket version of the OS built-in Phone application to manage and configure your connection. This program can be accessed from the menu, and when an incoming call, it runs automatically. When installing the SIM card Phone will ask the utility to enter the PIN code. Once entered the four-digit PIN code, the system will automatically find the mobile operator. Searching is also possible in manual mode. The top status bar appears a stylized icon antenna, which (if it was clicked stylus) provides information on network operators and the level of the received signal (the more "vertical bars" nabyudaetsya right of the antenna, the higher the signal level and the more stable bond). This icon also allows you to enable or disable the phone function. When switched GSM communicator module turns into an ordinary PDA - in this case the right of the antenna will cross. And, if you receive a call and simultaneous GSM-module and Windows Media Player the Player (play mp3), the level of music volume automatically drops, so you can answer it. Even if you turn the power off your device, GSM module continues to operate, as evidenced by the periodic "pomigivayuschy" green LED.When you receive a call, the communicator display turns on automatically and displays information about incoming calls. You have two options: to accept or reject the call. If you decline the call for one reason or another, you can later view the list of missed calls with time, when they were adopted. To make a call, you must use the stylus or your finger right on the screen to dial a number and press the green button. Phone application closely related to the Contacts. Dial a number you can directly from this list. Just "click" the stylus to "phone" specific subscriber - and it works like a hyperlink with an automatic call. In addition, it is possible to write ten most used phones on the keypad device (the function Speed ​​Dial), and then to dial these numbers will be sufficient to just click on the desired number and Knop Call button. With T-Mobile can not just call and send SMS-message - is curious that such a possibility is built into the mail application Inbox.

Phone Settings

For phone settings in the Settings menu item has a Phone, which consists of four tabs: Phone, Service, Network and More.

Phone

In this tab you can find your own phone number (if your mobile operator supports this service), select a sound scheme and a melody for the calls, enable PIN code to initialize the SIM card.

Service

Here you can select additional services: Caller ID, call forwarding, call hold, voice mail and sending short messages.

Network

In this menu you can set up automatic or manual search for a cellular network. In manual mode, the communicator will propose a list of all the GSM operators in the range of actions which he is, then you can choose desired. In automatic mode, the communicator will find himself a suitable mobile phone operator.

More

And the last item More, which allows you to set the keypad, the option is automatically lifting the handset after a preset time, without pressing a key or headset communicator. Additionally, you can build custom channels to transfer different data (weather, traffic jams, etc.), of course only on condition that your mobile operator provides such services. In addition, the menu Settings / System contains a large library of ringtones for calls (Menu Add Ring Tone), which can pre-listen. Another advantage of the device over a mobile phone - ringtones are a widespread standard wav and play them through the stereo headset can be. The quality of sound with polyphonic still not comparable:) There is a T-Mobile and the ability to monitor time spent on talk time. For these purposes, the menu Settings / Device Information tab there is a special Call Duration, which gives information on the total duration of all incoming and total duration of all outgoing calls. To prevent the loss of your contacts and other valuable information from PIM-applications have the option to save data on flash-drive with a further opportunity to restore them.

Keep your valuable data on flash-drive!

GPRS

The main advantage over a handheld device - is a built-in GPRS-modem, which allows you to receive email and connect to the Internet virtually anywhere, regardless of the local cellular networks. Unlike mobile phones T-Mobile has a fairly large display, so you can comfortably work in Internet Explorer. Testing the quality of communication was conducted in "MegaFon" and no specific complaints are not caused. At least, I could not feel much difference in reception quality between the T-Mobile and Siemens S55.

Motorola MPx 200 smartphone based on Windows: Russian debut

Yesterday (Tuesday, November 25) working day HPCru correspondent saw the press conference, organized by one of the largest manufacturers of cell phones by Motorola in conjunction with software giant Microsoft. At the event, where, as usual, journalists were collected from the majority of IT-editions, represented a new smartphone based operating system, Windows Mobile 2003 for Smartphone. This "smart tube" will be one of the first devices powered by Windows, to arrive in Russia. In Europe and the U.S. has already sold its analogs, which we have repeatedly told in our news. However, our debutante is not much delayed visit to Moscow. Its supply to overseas markets began two weeks earlier. New made in not unusual for vehicles of this class form-factor clamshell. However, folder-type-Motorola phones have always been able to quite interesting and most successful models implemented in this type of housing. In fact, this is not the first device with Windows for SmartPhone as an operating system, to get to our market. Back in mid-September we did a full review of the i-Mate SmartPhone, which is not too active, but still sold in Moscow. In order not to repeat this text, we will not really describe in detail the features of the operating system, so we encourage pre-reading test i-Mate. Do i-Mate at the start of sales was only one serious problem - it's not too "good attitude" to the Russian language. In the case of the MPx200 things are much better. Russification of the device completed by Quarta Technologies, which once made the localization of the CPC from HP and Rover Computers. We must pay tribute, at the press conference was a model with a fully translated interface correctly processed Russian letters, web-pages and file names. Tell a little about how to position themselves novelty software companies. According to representatives of Motorola, in order to meet the needs of customers, Microsoft has developed the concept of smart phone (smartphone), through which employees of enterprises, traditionally used personal computers in their work, could for the most common tasks used regular phones. Since the machine is running Windows Mobile operating system with an intuitive interface, so users will be relatively easy to get comfortable with it. Unlike PDAs, smart phones have the following features:

• device is primarily intended for telephone conversations and work with data is important, but secondary in addition to the basic functionality;
• device offers improved ergonomics for use with one hand and not equipped with a touch screen, all management is carried out using the keyboard;
• "Smart phone" is equipped with PIM-manager, or otherwise, a standard set of PDA applications for use with personal data: calendar, list of meetings, tasks, etc.etc.;
• Microsoft is a provider of operating systems, the devices themselves are developing handset manufacturers, and Motorola is the first of such companies in the Russian market;
• software platform has an open architecture, the documentation to develop applications for the device is open, but the platform is familiar

Now let's talk about the technical characteristics of the Motorola MPx200. This tri-band GSM-phone (900/1800/1900 MHz). Its dimensions are 48h89h27 mm. Weight, unfortunately, could not figure out, but according to our feelings, it's something of the order of 120-150 grams. Of course, this is not a standard miniature, but in the breast pocket of his jacket fits the phone without problems, and any discomfort while using the device is not felt. Of course, there is support for GPRS (class B). Color screen, quite bright (very similar to that transflective), supports the transfer of 65,000 colors. Battery capacity too has remained a mystery, but, according to the developers, the device can operate autonomously up to 270 minutes of talk time or a little more than 110 hours of standby time. From add that during the event (2-3 hours in a row) unit is almost never for a moment let go by journalists. At the end of a press conference battery life indicator shows two of the three divisions.

Demonstration video

The core of the system is a standard for low cost PDA Intel XScale processor with 200 MHz. However, his power is enough to turn the video, which was immediately confirmed by playing on the Motorola MPx200 hilarious excerpt from the movie "Monsters Inc.". Indeed, it would be very strange if one of the most versatile smartphones end of 2003 would not be able to work with multimedia.

Motorola MPx200 Camera

From the technical features can not dwell on the amount of internal memory. The user is available 32 MB (the other 32 "meters" set aside by the operating system). If it is not enough, you can always buy a separate memory card. The device has a SD / MMC-slot. The developers claim that the new well-drawn with cards up to 1 GB (apparently, we are talking about SD'shkah), although it was lying in the pocket of MMC on the Nokia 6600, formatted for FAT, MPx200 is not apprehended. Also on the sidelines of the journalists were shown a special camera that connect to SD / MMC-slot device. Built-in "digit", no matter how awesome it now did not seem to have a smartphone is not :-)) but also external camera, like the memory card to work with the presentation model is not wanted. Venture to suggest that he is out of order slot, which had suffered enough for the evening. Now we can only hope that the sale will go to the serial model with a more robust slot.

Left - right: SonyEricsson T68i, Motorola MPx200, Samsung S200, SonyEricsson T610

At the bottom of the device was spotted jack miniUSB.Clearly, this connector is used for synchronization (for this purpose on a desktop PC, as in the case of any other Pocket PC must be installed ActiveSync), but the inputs for connecting the charger for your smartphone no. A little later, it became clear that for this purpose it uses the same miniUSB. In our natural question: "That is to connect the phone to the PC and at the same time it can not be recharged??" Was received very interesting response. It turns out, MPx200 without any problems can be charged via USB, using the power of the desktop (such as, for example, employs a large number of lapochek notebook, plug in the USB). Specifically for laptop owners who are known to stress, often issued to a USB noticeably below the standard, we developed a special power supply circuit, works correctly with such devices. In this case, however, simultaneously charge the phone and sync it will not work. Here for laptop users who may want to become owners of the smartphone, it may be advisable to think about purchasing an active hub of issuing a standard output voltage. Of the shortcomings of the new MPx200 note also the lack of backlight. Although this shortcoming to some extent offset by a very bright screen, light from which one way or another, but gets on the keyboard. But what really seemed terribly uncomfortable, so that's what all the buttons are flush with the body. That is the button you'll first need to see, and then manage to push :-) Also at the press conference, much attention has been given specific examples of using the device. On the one hand, all the expected areas of application have been typical for most devices of this class, but on the other hand, the market had long since reached the stage of development, when buyers "do not know what they hochut. Do not say that all the examples, in our opinion, were successful, but here's a couple of the most clearly demonstrates the possibility of Motorola MPx200 (yes, and for that matter, so many other smartphones and communicators, now existing in the market): 1. Manager, located on the path to the client receives a message that the time and place of the meeting have changed. Notice sent by email, as the organizers of the meeting must notify several of its participants, that is most convenient to set as it is by email. Letter comes to the mail server Microsoft Exchange Server, which initiates a synchronization mechanism ActiveSync with a smartphone. Managers need to either confirm their participation, or reject on the basis of information from your calendar, as well as the new time and venue. Synchronization leads to what appears on the screen of the phone notification of the request for a meeting, which the manager confirms or rejects, and then again to resume the process of synchronizing with Microsoft Exchange.

Motorola MPx200 and Samsung S200

Interface and the rules of the Exchange Server using the same phone with the principles of work on a PC with Microsoft Outlook: There are lists of folders including inbox messages, calendar, task list, contacts, etc. Finding a calendar invitation to another meeting, the employee is able to accept it, reject or accept conditionally, depending on how much time to reach a new destination - that is, do the same thing, what he would do at your desk. In addition, it is possible to view a list of contacts and global address book Microsoft Exchange, so that we can immediately call back to the organizer of the meeting and discuss the details. 2. Quite similar to Exchange Server will notify the manager of new messages, new or changed contacts, or tasks, ieall that is a very important part of productive work "mobile worker". Synchronization can occur either on schedule or on demand, or triggered by the mail server when receiving critical messages. The volume of information transmitted can be limited, but messages can be transmitted partially. Only in the event that the employee understands that the message for him is crucial, he can "order" it dosylku. In addition, the presentation of new items have been demonstrated ease of use mobile internet on MPx200 (present as a WEB-, and WAP-Bowser) and e-mail. Microsoft also drew attention to the built-in instant messaging system MSN Messenger. In the meantime, we can only add that this miracle of a foreign thought to be available to domestic customers in about a month - at the end of this year. Approximate price of new items - $ 550 - $ 600. The authors, translation:

Communicator E-Ten P300: a relief for mobile professionals and amateurs

Our attentive reader may have already noticed long ago that the last year or two mobile phones mostly ceased to shrink in size (although some examples, of course, have a place to be) and have chosen to increase the number of different functions. Progress in this area is at such a rate that now is not so easy to make a clear distinction between the cell and, for example, smart phone, and even full-subnotebook. True, the "arms race" is not a gift for the appearance of these combo devices. The most fully featured of them, as a rule, heavyweights, no different noble lines. So that their owners have to sacrifice the compactness in favor of universality. But, apparently, more compromise is not necessary, because the producers did come down arms and to the miniaturization of communicators. On one of these fine universal solutions - extension range communicator E-Ten, already famous in Russia, and will be discussed in our review, but first ...

A little history

We have repeatedly talked about mobile phones based on the latest operating system Windows Mobile for Smartphone, which by its versatility is practically not inferior enjoying popularity among Russians tandem - in conjunction with a handheld mobile phone. Obvious examples here may serve as a Motorola MPx200 and i-Mate SmartPhone. Based on the lesser-known Symbian OS also created a lot of cell, which supplies Russia with Nokia and SonyEricsson. Such tubes as Nokia 9210/9210i, 7650/3650 for a long time, by the standards of the mobile market appeared in the domestic market and formed a class of so-called smart phones or "smart phones". However, handheld computers, or rather their producers, were also on alert and quickly counterattacked, that is, began to equip their machines phone module. Thus was born the class of communicators. The first pancakes, as usual, turned out lumpy. Suffice it to recall Siemens SX45 - a device with GSM / GPRS-receiver (and in some versions do not even have GPRS), made based on the Casio E-125. Then the device weighed almost half a kilo, and a small battery of working is reduced to "no" to all the advantages of such a decision. If one considers that even after removing the model from the production of its price did not dropped below $ 1000, then immediately ask yourself, why is created this technique.

Siemens SX45: this is the picture he is a little ...:)

A little later, began to appear more interesting news. If you continue to talk about «Powered by Windows»-solutions, then immediately come to mind not so distant past, when under different brands out pretty interesting communicators. Probably, the reader is familiar with Siemens SX56, QTek 1010 and O2 XDA - however strange it may seem, but all four do not differ much from each other (for example, QTek 1010 and O2 XDA vary only the logo). Particularly popular, none of these models are not used, although the chances they had, but apparently too high a price (originally about $ 1200) scared off potential buyers. However, recently the situation has considerably changed. PDA models were produced significantly greater, respectively, and the choice is made richer. Moreover, as noted by many reputable analysts are communicators and smart phones - is one of the most promising and fastest-growing areas of the industry of portable devices. On our site was even created a special section called "Communicators", which recently added to a curious novelty - a model of P300 from the Taiwanese company known under the brand name E-Ten. Recall that in the past year, the manufacturer has already debuted on the domestic market with their communicators P600 and P603. "Home" turned out good, so the E-Ten rushed to release a new model lineup. We note immediately unusually low for a device of this class price - only $ 549, for which a year ago, the average selling PDA functionality, and today - one of the best communicators. Although not get ahead of ourselves. Everything in order.

Appearance

P300 housing is made of soft-touch, high-quality plastic. Dimensions - 117x67x23 mm, weight - 165 g. In comparison with his older brothers dropped a good communicator in weight, almost 70 grams, which is also better reflected in its size. E-Ten looks much sleeker and nicer. So in that sense would be a relief for fans of the combo-making and a pleasant discovery for those looking for the universal "two-in-one. At the top of the front panel is cut the speaker LED which means charging P300 and the "eye" camera. Just above the antenna. Initially, its presence (or rather that it is not hidden inside the body) may scare off some users. In the life of the antenna does not prevent. Rather, even the opposite - it is very convenient to hide the stylus to get to is very simple. Under the screen is the navigation button, similar to the one that has a SonyEricsson T68i or Nokia 7650. Immediately present and keyboard shortcuts launch frequently used applications. The two sides in combination are responsible for receiving and removal of an incoming call in phone mode. At the bottom of the device is placed not only to the interface connector, but also a memory card slot MMC / SD / SDIO. To remove the card from the device, just click on it.Button "on / off" and a scroll wheel built into the left end. By the way, is the location button activation device seemed to us to be very successful: a finger on it falls just automatically (even though the direction in which his brother's hand drive). On the back of the mount is the battery. Then installed a removable lithium-polymer battery with 1050 mAh and is located beneath the slot for a SIM-card. The words, all as a mobile phone. It is convenient that the cradle has a special slot for charging additional battery that would be useful to those who are often on business trips, but not ready for a long time to live in the "off-line. The largest portion of the front panel, of course, takes the screen. Here, the producers have set Transflective matrix, the standard for most Windows CE-making resolution of 320x240 pixels, capable of displaying 4096 colors (12 bits). Despite the relatively small color, all images (including photographs) appear on the screen very well. In many ways, these new required physical size of the matrix - its diagonal is only 2.9 inches (compared to a cult iPaq'ov - as much as 3.9 inches). Quite naturally, and reduce the size of individual point. Due to this, the screen looks very clear, although sometimes some of the details seem to be too small. On the other hand, that most office functions (reading, editing of any documents and travel across the network) to P300 did not cause any difficulties. However, if you're a big fan of games in which you want to quickly and accurately get the pen in the small icon (say, a strategy where each unit is represented by just 5.10 pixels), then a novelty, we advise you will not. In all other cases, the problems should arise. Admire the E-Ten P300 in three-dimensional form, please visit the manufacturer. The presentation provided with captions.

Soft

Operating System, under which the E-Ten, called Windows Mobile 2003 Phone Edition. In general, it is customary for many Pocket PC-computer with some minor differences. In this platform built a special "phone" utility, responsible for communication with the outside world via the existing GSM / GPRS-module. A striking example - the application Phone. With it you can call anywhere, here you can also select a ringtone, alarm options (with or without the vibrator). Phone also opens automatically when an incoming call. Admittedly, not always quickly: If you are running any resource-intensive application, the machine may ring only for 2-3 whistles. On the other hand, this problem occurred infrequently. For example, we are faced with it when "chased" to type test SPB Benchmark. In everyday life, nothing like has not been noticed.Recall that the Eten P300 is a smartphone, we have also during the configuration of Internet connection. Taking as a modem Cellular Line (GPRS), you can connect to the network through an integrated module. In this case, by the way, there is no need even to prescribe the modem initialization string. No problems with setup and operation of GPRS-connection have been reported (Moscow network "MTS"). If the GPRS was not available (as is, unfortunately, still happens) and it became necessary to install the CSD-compound (even at 9600 bps), we have to choose a normal Cellular Line.

Features

A pleasant surprise was the presence of the device USB-Host. USB connector itself is located, as, for example, Rover'a P5, in the cradle (at the back part of it, the same place where the power plug is connected). But if the domestic PDA quietly worked with any USB-devices without external power, then to the E-Ten P300 a must connect the AC adapter. From my own experience can say that, for example, USB-drives (including the latest, with the support of USB 2.0) and so many cameras, and any other appliances like MP3-players that appear in desktop systems in the form of removable storage devices, without any problems and can work with the P300. A similar function will be very useful visiting journalists, reporters, and just fans of trips that each step tend to shoot at the camera. For example, buying an external hard drive (whether or Ziv Maxtor - does not matter), you will regularly be able to fold it made the day Photos by E-Ten'a. Say a few words about the built-in camera. The maximum frame size is 640x480 pixels. Of course, admire the staff for the sake of aesthetic pleasure will not work. But here it is sometimes necessary to take a picture of a man and immediately send it to photograph a colleague with the comment: "This man will come to you in two hours."

Eye of the camera is placed directly above the signature of the Pocket PC

Then, considering that the camera is on the front panel, not the back, like most similar devices, the device is very useful for spontaneous video conferencing. Benefit, NetMeeting or something like that right now there are virtually on any desktop PC, a GPRS support makes it possible to conduct such virtual meetings, while spending a minimal amount of money for the services of a cellular operator.

Runtime

Pleasantly pleased with the battery life. In real life, the device worked for more than two days at 15-20 minutes of phone calls and about 1,5-2 hours is not very hard work in PDA mode. In many respects, such a good indicator of merit is not only a relatively small (in area) of the screen, but also quite economical processor (here set ARM9, running at 200 MHz).

Performance

If we talk about the speed of the device, then give your attention the results of tests SPB BenchMark. From himself only to add that to work with office applications processor power enough "for the eye, but many of the new 3D-games do not work as fast as we would like. On the other hand, P300 and does not pretend to the title game console.

Russification

Communicator will be bundled with the system of national localization MacCentre Pocket RussKey 2003, which will provide a complete Russification of text input and translation of all the built-in device applications.

Price

Eten P300 purchase will be for $ 549 in the near future stores' computer in the palm, while wholesalers can now see the "live" examples and begin to make reservations.

Output

Cons:
• Small physical dimensions of the screen
• External Antenna
• You can charge your device only through the cradle

Pros:
• Small size and weight
• High functionality
• USB-Host
• The presence of a camera
• Careful placement of buttons
• Memory card slot MMC / SD / SDC
• Long battery life
• Replacement battery

Thus, E-Ten P300 is perfect for those who need to work with e-mail, mobile Internet and various Web applications. Moreover, quality and comfortable work. A small example - a utility that allows you to display on your desktop communicator, self-updating page Today rates. Those to whom such information is extremely important, certainly appreciate the option of wireless data on mobile devices. In addition, E-Ten P300 against the brothers in the class really stands Stylish design, small size and long battery life. In this sense, the device can easily replace a cell phone and PDA, and the cost will be cheaper than a kit. In a word, and a shirt pocket is not much draw it out, and the purse is not very easier ...;) authors, translation:

I-mate Pocket PC: a true friend to technocrat

The first clumsy attempts to adapt the GSM-transmitter and antenna to the Pocket PC family of computers is nothing but tears did not cause. No, devices like the Siemens SX45, if desired could be used, but neither the size nor the low battery life was not allowed to call it a pleasure. The huge box weighing about 200 grams did not fit in any pocket, and a belt, a holster, there is a burden. Moreover, a hasty pristraivanie telephone functions to an existing operating system led to the mass of small and big trouble - from the inability to change the ringtone to something beyond the standard five tunes to a complete loss of touch with the world at a low battery in the middle of the day. However, the rules of the "worst-first" has not been canceled - appeared and the next generation of devices, such as mmO2 XDA. They were better, but also has a "complex character". The first smartphone based on the Pocket PC (there are already Windows Mobile), to which it is impossible to find fault, has become the latest i-Mate Posket PC, which not only copes well with issues of communication, but is one of the best to date PDA with an extremely high performance. Even without opening the box, you start to enjoy it. Even the picture is clear that the design of the apparatus compact, all angles lovingly smoothed, and most importantly - no antenna! That is, the external differences from the CCP are minimal and, therefore, in appropriate amounts, the communicator without any problems can be carried in a pocket. Looking ahead we say that the way it is, in his pocket, he feels quite comfortable, and the owner comfortable. Inside the box are pleased with your great. Except for the device with its battery and branded CD, in the enclosed kit contains several books with instructions chubby, cute silver cradle with slot for charging a second battery, AC adapter, an adapter for recharging the PDA on the road (without the cradle), a stylish silver stereo headset has an arsenal of controls (volume control wheel, the buttons start and end the conversation), spare stylus and a case. Stylish black case requires a separate story - usually these sell for a lot of money. It is made of very high quality synthetic leather, has a hinged top with a rigid lid pocket for memory cards, as well as a complete disconnect with locking plastic clip, which remains on the belt, when the owner picks up the PDA in its case. In addition, all controls and camera lens are available, cover only covers the SD slot and universal connector device. If you tilt the lid cover, and they are available. In general, the equipment meets many opportunities and the price i-Mate. The computer itself after the first introduction also creates a sense that money well spent. Metal body, combining the smooth and corrugated surface has a small width and great grip. Wear it in a case on his belt - a pleasure, but also in a shirt pocket too bad, there really helps the absence of the antenna. The front panel is solved a bit unconventionally, but soon, it seems, such a solution would be a classic for communicators. Under the screen is Five-way navigation key and the left and right of it - the Talk button and the End. Here - the microphone. Above the screen, left and right of the speaker, there are two buttons applications by default are configured to your address book and diary. Over the buttons - two lights, one of which advertises on Bluetooth, and the second shows the status of your network and charging the battery. The location of the slot SD Card (supports SDIO), IrDA port and off button - standard on the top. Here, from pencil-box is removed the stylus, rather long and thin. Its central part is made of a pleasant, slightly rough metal and plastic ends. The back side of the case surprises: here is the camera lens, licensed VGA (640x480). Directly below an objective - a small convex mirror, looking into which you can photograph yourself. All this is not just type in handsets, but among the Pocket PC is a solution yet exotic. Accordingly, on the left side, except for voice recorder button and the slider (it replaces the scroll wheel and is pressed), there is a button activate the camera. Under the thin metal cover is hidden battery, having a good but not record-setting capacity - 1200 mAh. To prevent accidental disconnection, it is fixed below a small catch. Under the battery - a convenient slot for the SIM-card, reminding shalt have old phones Motorola. Well, finally, on the bottom there is a thin connector universal port, deeply recessed reset button and headset jack hands-free, covered by a neat rubber cap. The location of the nest, in general, failed because the device makes it difficult to wear in your pocket. However, the haters of all kinds of wires can rejoice: this phone supports voice profile of Bluetooth, and, hence, local radio can be used not only for wireless synchronization, but also for talking! If we forget for a moment about the communication functions, the i-Mate is a very perfect PDA, equipped with the latest PXA263 processor from Intel, 128 (!) MB of memory, internal flash disk for important data at 15 MB and the already mentioned "goodies" in the form camera, Bluetooth and SD Card. Transflective TFT-LCD pleased tsvetonasyschennostyu good and uniform illumination, but its brightness is not a record. The lowest level before shutting down the backlight brightness, contrast, would cover less space. Despite this, the screen comfortable to use under all lighting conditions. Very interesting opportunities "backpack", which is available for this model and, unfortunately, are not available in Russia. This jacket is available slot, CompactFlash, extra battery, as well as output to connect the PDA to monitor or TV. Screen resolution in this case reaches 800x600, although it is not clear why it might be useful if all applications are designed for 240x320. However, presentations and videos has not been canceled. And, both played on the i-Mate is excellent, because it is one of the most powerful PDA based on Windows Mobile 2003. Among today's competitors, the communicator is inferior in performance only "purebred" PDA ASUS MyPal A620 and HP iPAQ H4150.All other PDAs, and certainly all the other Windows-communicators left far behind. Meticulous study of the reserve on the test results SPB Benchmark, and themselves back to the communications functions. Communication Module i-Mate is a tri-band, so it can go, even in America. GPRS is configured - on the user's request, he can operate in a Class 8 (4 +1) or Class 10 (3 +2). Telephony functions are already known to us the enclosed "Phone", which displays the classical composing keyboard provides access to convenient protocol calls and a long list of repertory, and also allows you to send SMS and configure network functions of the device. SMS editor is indistinguishable from the client e-mail, so we are particularly it shall not stop, saying only that EMS does not endorse, and concatenated messages, by contrast, understands perfectly. Settings such as choice of tone, change the network and include network features (call forwarding, voicemail, call barring, etc.) were in previous versions of Communicator. New opportunity - is receiving broadcast SMS ("infokanalov). Other network services that previously were not supported, implemented as separate applications, as well as in the control panel, but they are just below. Unfortunately, the traditional problem besklaviaturny communicators, dialing with one hand, and has not been solved. Need to either poke a finger in the on-screen buttons, or excel in the scrolling address book. Voice dialing is not implemented. But speakerphone available. To switch to the need for long press Talk. In talk mode the touch-screen button you can turn off the microphone to discuss anything secret from my subscriber, and can conversely, run the application "Notes" and make audio recordings of conversation. However, I have the impression that the voice recording is the interlocutor in so far as external microphone "hears" the sounds emanating from the speaker. At least, the noise in the room could hear the recording is better than it buddy. Additional applications of "telephone" wing of i-Mate - a few. They are designed to compensate for the lack of some functions that are in mobile phones, but not in the PDA. For example, Photo Contacts application allows you to group users, and assign each contact with the SIM-card and address book personal photo. It appears on the screen during an incoming call. Another application is eloquently called the MMS Composer. In essence, it allows you to send no more information than a standard e-mail client, but there is an important nuance - that information can be sent to your phone, regular phone. Naturally, on a large screen device to prepare MMS - a pleasure. Simultaneously visible text and image, and the band sound clip, access to all settings. This same application, despite its name, is engaged and receiving MMS. Taking into account the two above functions expanded application Album. It lets you view images in the memory of them and arrange a slide show, but send your favorite applications via MMS or assign them as a photo-contacts. SIM Toolkit application shows the cameraman menu SIM-card, through which simplifies obtaining useful information (weather, currency rates, the trailer, near bars, etc.) and manage his personal account, well, SIM Manager allows you to view the card and import your address book stored on the "SIM cards" contacts. Crowned this orgy of sociability application Wireless Modem, which allows the use of i-Mate in the unromantic as GPRS-modem.Actually, the program is unpretentious - you need to select the port which will connect your PC or laptop (serial, USB, IrDA, Bluetooth) and click on Start. Next just have to enjoy the Internet on a large computer screen, occasionally glancing at the three indicators, blinking in the display i-Mate. I must say that on the test sample was apparently intended to supply the Arab countries. After the first start he illegally installed the few Arab applications, most of which need to disable and uninstall, but among them there is one very useful. It is called the Finger Clix and is designed to navigate the address book without using the stylus and buttons, just a finger. The screen has large buttons, like a telephone keypad, with which it is easy to type the first two or three letters of the name, but having found necessary - one click to start dialing. Until now, we almost did not discuss the built-in camera. Well, well, it's time to rectify that omission. When you start the application "camera" is almost occupied the whole screen image, broadcasted on the lens, and only a small icon at the bottom allow you to configure operating modes and to obtain information about them. Limiting resolution photography is 480x640, but there may be more low, up to 120x160. In general, the settings quite a lot more than normal phones with a camera. In addition to the standard for this class of devices, white balance settings (daylight, fluorescent light, artificial light, etc.), special effects (sepia, black and white picture, and so on.) And put a framework (albeit, the kit includes all two), there are more interesting settings: contrast, sharpness, tsvetonasyschennost, gamma. However, more importantly, that the camera can shoot movies with sound. Permission to them, as expected, low (240x320), but a variety of compression techniques available, including popular MJPEG and MPEG-4. The frame rate is low, 10 fps, you can only play videos on your computer or application "Album". Windows Media Player on the i-Mate does not see them. The quality of images on the display i-Mate is quite good, they do not look too grainy or blurry, they are often true to the color, ie white balance is determined correctly. In the night mode when it's dark, the image is very noisy, but this noise, strangely enough, a little distracting images on it is easily seen by the plot. The quality of filming, by contrast, is low, and the image is visible jerks are often blurred. Affects the overall lack of built-in cameras, the problem with auto focus and rapid adaptation to the lighting conditions. As for the audio subsystem i-Mate, then it is difficult to assess unambiguously. The quality and volume of sound during conversations is not satisfactory. The headset supplied allows not only to negotiate, but also happy to listen to music that is played through headphones and loud and full. But the volume of the tones is small. Even a sharp and upbeat melodies do not save, therefore, still need a headset.

Runtime

As already mentioned, the battery has an average, not a record capacity. Given the voracious screen, GPRS-and Bluetooth module, this means that active users will recharge your device every day. Waiver of BT and GPRS, and a moderate amount of conversations, minimizing the load of multimedia and the rapid off lights can extend the battery life of up to 2 days, but this is the limit. In principle, stock up on a second battery would be a good idea, especially because it is convenient to charge. In the synthetic tests, i-Mate with enabled GSM / GPRS-module (data transmission is not made) and at full brightness the screen stayed on the SPB Benchmark for 4 hours and 10 minutes. MP3 playback in Windows Media Player with the backlight off the display lasted for 8 hours continuously. However, to complain about high energy consumption as "heaped" model, the communicator would be strange - should pay for everything.

Localization

Test sample was national localization system Russified MacCentre Pocket RussKey 2003.

Price

The network of shops "computer in the palm" device i-Mate Pocket PC can be purchased for $ 1149.

Output

Despite some flaws, i-Mate, unlike its predecessors, is well thought out and does not cause serious problems in operation. It's good enough as a phone, no one loses an ordinary mobile phone, part of specific communications functions, is deprived of nasty bugs in the GSM-module. Well, if we consider that it is also functional PDA running Windows Mobile 2003, one of the best in performance and equipment, it becomes clear that these technocrats are obliged to fall in love with something new. Finally, note that i-Mate is developing quite well-known company HTC, which communicators are willing to buy many of the major manufacturers of mobile equipment and operators, so do not be surprised if you see on the counter aids Qtek 2020 or XDA2, like two peas similar to i-mate ...:) The authors, translation: