Mio 728: nimble bear, united with the bees

Meetings with the communicator had to wait more than two weeks. Every day, I heard the same thing: "device has not yet returned from the Beeline. Something fell in love with Mio 728 "bee" cellular service ... However, the delay was even the way - exactly to triumphant return with "bee" tests firm Mitac announces the model formally. Box of my test copy evokes spyware games. Abstract inscription «Pocket PC» in ordinary cardboard and no markings on the body of the device. I had to believe in the word that this is Mio 728. In the box found the charger cradle sync socket for simultaneous charging the second battery, hands-free headset and, of course, the communicator. Neither the manual nor even a CD with the drivers were found - the cost of the test sample. This, of course, a little more difficult my task when I started to install on Mio software from the desktop computer. However, necessity is the mother of invention - the site Mitac was loaded driver for the popular Pocket PC Mio 338, which went perfectly well, and ActiveSync «living" I, like all my colleagues, constantly. Because of this, I finally believed that I was dealing with the production of Mitac, well, at the same time established a crack, a few tools and a favorite toy Snails. Naturally, while in the cradle unit being charged. The standard package does not include any solutions for travelers and travel, the battery will charge only cradle. It's very uncomfortable, as Mio 728, as well as all colleagues, be discharged very quickly - with the active use it will have to be put on charge every night. Battery for such devices is not so emok - 1400 mA * h Appearance Mio pretty militaristichen. Discreet and housing, rubber inserts on the ends, the large thickness - something he looks like a hiking GPS-receivers. Due to the thickness of the device seems to be very cumbersome, although his other dimensions are quite comparable to competitive developments. Moreover, its width is less than that of counterparts, so in hand, he is more comfortable. Many innovative design solutions. Firstly, on the front panel except the navigation keys are as many as six buttons. For the sake of the two "tubes" (send and end calls) did not waive the standard for PocketPC keys, so the control has more than enough. The icons on the "pipe" button not eloquent, and the small size of the buttons are in doubt. Four-way navigation key is too low, so press on it is not very convenient. However, this minor carping. But the navigation wheel, recessed into a deep hole on the left side, turned out to be very much convenient. Other elements of the layout is also not typical for this class of devices. Right on top of the building - a massive antenna. Two LEDs (one for computer parts, another phone) compact grouped directly beneath it, are not separated and have not been signed. The stylus holder on the right is no longer fit, and had to move it to the left of the body. To all this we must get used to. No flaws, but the deviation from the standard, confusing the spent motor function. At the upper end is located infrared port and a slot Compact Flash Type II. More popular in recent SD Card no. Well, another unusual decision in the bank Mitac - cumbersome by modern standards, a CF slot more often endure in additional "backpack." But behind the machine is a welcome sight for fans of traditional solutions. Removable lithium-ion battery combined with a rear wall, a simple and popular mount for SIM-card for him - everything, as in most phones. The ability to easily replace the battery will certainly appreciate the active users, more importantly, to change the batteries on sale. After switching on the screen appears briefly some diagnostic message that appears at Hogwarts (like Harry Potter caught and Asia too), then we are left alone with a classic screen PocketPC Phone Edition. We begin with a review of telephone functions. There's nothing new. Appendix «Phone» equally to all communicators from the classical to the o2 XDA freshly Eten. That is displayed on screen keyboard composing. With the help of the navigation wheel, you can call the speed dial list and recent calls, easily filtered by type of call. The toolbar presents a concise set of options (call forwarding, change of PIN, the connection of network services, change network, sound system) and the editor of SMS, it hurt like a mail client. All the strength - in detail. Speaker volume not satisfactory during the conversation, but here it is the voice ringing loud enough. Therefore, in a noisy call will certainly be missed. Does not correct the situation and vibrate - because of the large size, it is unlikely someone would agree to wear the device on the body, even on your belt. Audio section PDAs and phones are fully integrated, so when you connect the headset you will hear in the earpiece and ring tones and caller's voice. But non-standard (mini) connector makes it difficult to connect regular headphones. Button on the headset is not, so to use it effectively you must include the option to automatically answer incoming calls. As always, the forgotten voice features: voice dialing, speakerphone, record the conversation on tape. As mentioned above, the device has a rubber-coated ends, so keep it relatively comfortable to the ear, but problems with the protection of the screen it does not cancel - necessarily need to change the film. Unlike other smartphones, the Mio 728 in the ROM stitched utility that allows you to add your own ring tones in the corresponding list. Why such a trivial operation requires extra effort on machines predecessor - is unclear. Communication module that supports GSM 900/1800 and GPRS, reprimands did not cause. He holds a network of slightly worse ordinary phones from manufacturers, but with the features of the communicator is unlikely to be actively used for voice traffic. As to the data, here everything is traditional to quickly and conveniently. In the Internet Connection settings chosen method of access - GPRS-modem, specify the access point, and ... everything. Next, the net! By the way, to control the GPRS-connection with Mio 728 has another proprietary tool. Nothing, except for quick access to the same settings it does not, but the lightning-fast switching from one profile to another will certainly appreciate those who move from town to town and for sure knows how bad the situation is with the GPRS-roaming. It is time to briefly run through the traditional PDA-filling machine. And for the umpteenth time to note that from here all the innovation denies.Classic StrongArm processor 206 MHz, 64 MB RAM and 32 MB standard flash memory, which is about 7.2 Mb for the user's needs appear in the tactical and technical characteristics of the handheld very long time. Reflective screen is very bright, and white balance are well respected, but the best examples (we will not poke a finger in the iPaq), he does not hold out a bit. Sound in headset is average, but probably the main blame for this lies with the headphones. The most interesting in the Mio 728 is still a slot Compact Flash. On the one hand, much need for expansion modules such as GSM or Wi-Fi from the owner of this device will not be. On the other hand, if you want here you can set a capacious memory card, for example, using high-capacity battery to watch video, first disconnect the phone module. Or just keep the card a lot of data from the Internet. In general, the prospects are interesting. In fact, the appearance of CF-slot quite logical - if so, these compact communicators still do not work, you can try to compensate for the large amount of advanced functionality, such as the ability to use multi-gigabyte memory card. By the way, the ROM stitched and backup utility data on the card. Well, let's sum up. All the "ancestral curses" communicators based on PocketPC Phone Edition for Mio 728 in the presence of: high energy, awkwardness and discomfort of wearing on the body, small number of phone settings, lack of convenient voice functions. However, the specific implementation has some interesting advantages: a little more narrow and therefore lie comfortably in the hand of housing, both economically and technically advantageous slot, Compact Flash, replaced by two movements of the battery. If so you need a mobile computer for non-voice traffic and active use, it makes sense to look closely at the Mio 728. Available in MakTsentr communicator Mio 728 appears in the middle of June. Purchase telephone service can be handheld for $ 699. The authors, translation:

Mobile Internet: PDA + GPRS via Infrared and Bluetooth - Manual

Tip: In addition to this article read other thematic materials HPC.ru

What is it - GPRS?

For all its contemporary theoretical and practical bases of GSM have been developed for a long time and largely behind the users' requirements. The current data rate in these networks - 9.6 kilobits per second (1,2 KB / s). Even under the most modest needs such speed can not provide a complete work. In addition, with this method of connection fee is to wait. In the present situation, when many people need to be always on-line is absolutely unprofitable. To remedy the situation, at one time, a new data transfer protocol in mobile networks, which received a resounding title GPRS (General Packet Radio Service - the packet data service over the air). As seen from the explanation of the abbreviations, the transfer is "packets", ie not used all the radio, on which there is also a voice, but pauses that occur during the transmission of voice information. The phone can handle multiple channels simultaneously - both the reception and data transfer. The new protocol will dramatically increase the speed - ideally - to 171.2 Kbps. In reality, the speed is limited capabilities of terminals, ie handsets. Modern tube can use up to 2 channels for the transfer - about 13 kbit / s and up to 4 to receive data - about 40 kbps (5 KB / s). In many ways, the connection speed is determined and the overall workload of the network. It is important that the GPRS-connection fee is charged based on the number of incoming and outgoing information, rather than time. That is, users of GPRS if you want can always be connected to the internet, because he pays only for traffic. This kind of access is much easier, and cheaper than traditional GSM-speed data transfer.

Mobile Internet: PDA or handset?

Manufacturers of mobile phones today are building into their products a lot of additional tools: an organizer, phone book, to-do list, games. And often, of course, GPRS. With the tube becomes possible to learn the schedule of the aircraft, weather forecast, currency rates and much more. Your mobile phone can be connected to global networks, and this opens up broad prospects. But this raises the issue of quality user experience with the Internet. Screens of mobile phones today are extremely low, so a full-fledged surfing the net is almost impossible. Of course, there are sites that are adapted for viewing on small screens, but it's mostly dry information sources that provide background information or at best a summary of the latest news. And what about chat rooms, forums, ISQ? A good idea to get access to data and remote home or office computer, and use the full email client, which can, for example, display, save, and send email attachments. But would still need to work with Web pages without going through all the links one by one the phone button, but simply pointing to the right as on the desktop ... Ah! .. All this mobile phones, unfortunately, are not able. There are not going to use something else other than a mobile phone. Options are not too many: laptop, desktop, or PDA (personal computer). The most powerful tool will, of course, laptop. He is mobile and the most versatile. But the laptop - it's more than 800 dollars a kilogram minimum weight, it is a decent size, it's about 2-3 hours (the more expensive models have worked for longer). Besides all the above, the laptop does not use on the go. It necessarily have to open and wait until the system boots or come out of hibernation. The second option - it's handhelds. All the advantages and disadvantages here to mirror the situation with laptops. Pocket PC today is inexpensive - from $ 200, but the average price of a typewriter for a good price / quality ratio - $ 300 PDA weighs only 150-200 grams, it is flat and quietly fit in your pocket, it is very convenient to carry in a belt or cheholchike purse. Battery life varies widely, averaging 5 to 12 hours (net time!). PDA enabled instantly: got, clicked the button work. Practice shows that the PDA is quite resistant to accidental drops, vibration, rain.The touch screen and control buttons make the work enjoyable, with many actions you can do with just one hand. When you visit Internet resources ligament PDA + phone provides a lot more than just a mobile phone that supports GPRS. A relatively large screen, ample opportunities for input, the ability to install additional software, support for today's Internet technology - all this speaks in favor of the CCP. In many cases, the network can use services with the same ease as on the desktop. For PDAs, there are versions of popular programs such as ICQ, Windows Messenger, etc. But, nevertheless, the possibility of handhelds are not limitless. When working with network resources frequently encountered problem with displaying national symbols, and many handheld browsers will not be able to automatically detect the page encoding to spend a lot of time on the repartitioning of pages for viewing on a small screen, can not work with animated images. Nevertheless, for mobile surfing on the go, anywhere - the best solution to date is not there. Although, in fairness, it is worth mentioning another class of devices - smartphones - a sort of hybrid mobile phone and a full-fledged handheld computer. But we tell about them below.

Several ways to combine a PDA with a mobile phone

Link PDA with a mobile phone in several ways. Typical estimates of each method can be easy connectivity, reliability, convenience and, of course, price. Let us consider all possible types of connection. Firstly, it is a direct cable connection. Special devices are connected to cable via serial ports. This connection could be considered the most reliable and cheap, but given the variety of PDAs and cell phones on the market, such a method will be most difficult. The developers did not seek to unify the devices, and virtually every new model has its own interface and connector. Of course, you can try to find a suitable model of PDA and phone, search for shops or solder a very appropriate cable, but it's too expensive. Cable connection is not convenient (imagine that your PDA and phone all the time, connect the wires) and virtually a thing of the day before yesterday afternoon. Therefore, in this review, the cable connection is not considered. A more common way to make friends PDA and cell phone - it's an infrared port (IrDA). Device "wink" to each other rays bottom of the spectrum, not visible to the human eye. Such a combination is used for a long time and was very widespread. Almost all PDA models have this port, and you just have to pick up the appropriate receiver. The process itself will be discussed in detail hereinafter. Looking ahead we can say that this method is the most inexpensive of the above. However, there will have to live with some restrictions mobility ligament - a device constantly need to be in direct line of sight to each other at a distance of no more than 2 meters. To use such a bunch on the run, will require considerable skill. In addition, in very bright light and sunshine connection on the IR port will be difficult. And the third possible way to combine - it's communication at radio frequencies, when using Bluetooth. Bluetooth - a high-speed microwave standard that allows data transfer at up to 10 meters (in practice more). Clocked at 2,56 Ghz and is able to simultaneously connect up to 8 devices in one group. The main charm of Bluetooth - a sufficiently high exchange rate and the time that the devices need not be in the line of sight. No need to worry that someone can connect to your phone via Bluetooth and will "sit" on the internet your money. User-level protection against unauthorized access to your device is organized with multiple levels of trust that can be set independently.The highest level - Trusted. In this mode, the owners of Bluetooth devices once spend on their typewriters special authorization procedure, after which the devices can exchange data without asking for additional evidence. Lower level - Discoverable. In this mode, your Bluetooth device is visible to all others who are in range. However, all manipulations with data transfer require you to confirm. And finally, there is almost completely hidden mode when your PDA can not be found. In this mode, it will only communicate with the Trusted devices, if any. At the moment the technology is becoming more widespread, and these modules are integrated into an increasing number of devices - from watches to refrigerators. Minus - pretty high price for the device with built-in Bluetooth-modules, because basically these modules are equipped with top models of equipment. However, the situation is gradually getting better, and the standard, finally, may well become nationwide. For example, the latter belonging to the class cost model iPAQ h1945 Pocket PC equipped with such a module. If the PDA does not have full-time wireless data transmission capabilities, it is quite simply "cured" through an optional module in the slot the PDA. The procedure to install the Bluetooth connection in some cases even easier than IrDA, and will also be discussed in detail hereinafter. In terms of ease of use, "Blue tooth" of course, be the first place. To access the Internet, you will not even get the phone from his pocket. In transport, on the street, at work, at home and study you will always be on-line. With the help of special software can work with text messages and make calls directly from the PDA. Chances are, of course, very broad, but, as mentioned above, it is worth the money.

Test Equipment

Smartphone i-Mate: Windows in the device!

Cmeem hope that our readers are experiencing a genuine interest in handheld technology, heard about the newest platform from Microsoft - Smartphone 2002 and realize that this operating system is designed to "computerized" mobile or smartphones (literally - "smart phones") that combine the functions of cell and PDAs. These combo devices are also often identified with known you communicators (Nokia 9210, for example, or the O2 XDA), but if you really delve into the details, smart phones - a first means of communication, and then later handhelds (PDA with a sort of "phone person" ). Today our guest is the representative of the class "savvy tubes - i-Mate Smartphone manufactured by HTC, which is likely to become a pioneer of the Russian market. But first a little digression. Despite the fact that clovosochetanie Microsoft Smartphone from hearing devices based on this platform released so far very little, and in Russia they are little known. In the west smartfonostroenie (we do not take into account the communicators) is gaining momentum and represented nearly two major competing with each other directions - Concern Nokia, producing Nokia 3650/7650 on the basis of Series 60 Platform, a kind of Symbian OS, and, in fact, Microsoft, diligently lobbying into their ranks licensees. Nevertheless, numerous analytical predictions now portend swift and secure the victory of these "hybrids" over other mobile communication devices, including mobile phones. And here is one of the first "savages" - in our editorial. He hides in a modest white cardboard box with no markings. Is proving to be small, but smart, judging by the name, tube Smartphone i-Mate.

What's in the box?

The bundled i-Mate has almost everything to "complete happiness". In addition to the device itself, in a box were found: a miniature cradle for syncing and charging, AC adapter, the adapter AC-serial, stereo handsfree headset with a button to answer an incoming call, which can also be used to listen to music CDs with drivers and a case for wearing on the belt. The latter is made of smooth black leatherette, and looks very stylish, but the tube is there pretty tightly, and do not exclude unwanted keystrokes. So before you pack the device in the "armor" is to lock the keypad.

Form Factor i-Mate

At first glance, i-Mate is difficult to distinguish from an ordinary cell phone hi-end class: large screen, a joystick, a few extra buttons. The hull shape is associated with expensive models in Samsung. Consider the smartphone more closely. Above the screen are the speaker and the light. The device is made in a small package of plastic two-tone: his facial parts - silver, rear - dark blue. As expected, the antenna is hidden inside. Above normal for the cell phones digital keyboard are Home button to go to the main menu screen and the Back to go back one step back. Slightly above the standard keys are answering the call, call and cancel the five-way joystick. Directly beneath the screen hiding two additional unnamed buttons for working with menus. Incidentally, the display is a smartphone, as opposed to screen handheld computers are not susceptible to depression, so that all navigation is via the keyboard and above the keys. Generally, the display i-Mate merits of individual words. Completed it on transflective technology ensures bright and sharp image. Diagonal screen size is 2.2 inches (55 mm), resolution 176 x 220 pixels with support for 65,536 colors. Adjust the backlight level is impossible, but to save batteries, you can specify the time after which it must be shut down.In addition, quite quickly, the system automatically lowers the brightness level. On the left edge of the body placed the call button the recorder, adjust the volume, power-off button and slot SD / MMC. All keys - big enough and respond well to push, so that dialing and menu navigation is carried out fairly easily and quickly. But with a joystick things a little differently. This miniature manipulator has a high sensitivity, and often attempt to move with it "up" turns around, if you are not graceful ladies fingers:), say, launching programs or opening the file. In short, the user requires a well-known sleight of hand ... Case dimensions are 120.4 x 50.1 x 23.5, Weight - 105 grams.

Contents

The phone's

i-Mate is designed for use in cellular networks GSM 900/1800/1900. In this regard, it is almost not different from ordinary mobile phones, as it gives the user the full range of necessary services: caller ID, ​​call forwarding, call hold, send SMS / MMS and so on. Create and read the message in the program are the same Inbox and your email. In the multimedia message, you can insert text, write with a voice recorder, pictures, and photos from the attached digital camera (more on this below), as well as a variety of tunes that you can write directly on the phone, using a simple synthesizer. Built-in GPRS class C can access the Internet directly from the tube. Unfortunately, the class does not support working with GSM. This means that while you are connected to the web, the usual calls to penetrate will not. Configuring the Internet c follows the same pattern as on Pocket PC, that is, you must specify the access point IP address and DNS and a password. The network can go through the cradle and using the Pass Through settings in ActiveSync on the desktop.

CPC-component

By modern standards, PDA, i-Mate features not high, but let's not forget that this is primarily a telephone. The handset is based on the ARM720 processor with a clock frequency of 120 MHz. Memory is 16 MB, of which the user is allotted only 12.53 MB. It is enough to store several dozen e-mails, MMS / SMS, information in the diary and notebook, but for the music will make an additional memory card.

Operating system for mobile

Smartphone 2002 inherited a little of almost all platforms, Microsoft, and users that experience with desktop or handheld versions of Windows, will quite simply get used to their small "telephone" edition. "Desktop» Smartphone 2002 is very similar to the Today screen of the Pocket PC. On it appear the planned meetings and events diary, information about received messages and emails, missed calls and recently used programs. Additional hardware buttons, as mentioned above, is responsible for calling the main program menu (the analog Start'a) and quick access to your notebook. A set of installed applications, though not great, but It contains almost everything you need. PIM-utilities are the phone version of Outlook, the data from which you can synchronize with your desktop computer. Standard, it includes:

Module CompactGPRS from Pretec: convert CPC Communicator

Now available to the average Russian user who decided to connect your home PC for the World Wide Web, there are local networks, good old dial-up and cell phone. In short, there is at least choose from. Arsenal of the same for access to the internet users of mobile devices, the choice is not leaving. Here to help can come except that the mobile phone with support GPRS, the connection through a desktop computer or wireless networks. But ... Cell, usually in high demand for its intended purpose, access to the Web from a PDA via desktop devoid of meaning, and the wireless network while extremely poorly represented in our country. All of these "but" of course, may not seem so important an ordinary user, but those who need the Internet day and night, most likely agree with me. It turns out that the most acceptable version of the above - GPRS. Fortunately, this service offers almost all mobile operators. The question is only appropriate equipment to connect. Looking ahead to say that he seems resolved ... Not so long ago the company Pretec introduced in the Russian market a new communication module CompactGPRS, supplementing the usual PDA with a Compact Flash slot features a cell phone. This unusual device, and will be the subject of our review. Honestly, get a box with the module in the warehouse, I was determined quite skeptical. The chain of my reasoning, as an ordinary owner of the CPC was pretty straightforward. There are in fact the mobile phone market with support for GPRS or communicators - entirely self-device to access the network ... What else should a mobile user? I thought that hang on the Pocket PC more "gadgets", increasing it in size, mass and reducing battery life, absolutely not necessary. But in the few days that Pretec CompactGPRS had with my PDA, I completely changed my point of view. While exploring the contents of the box I waited a few pleasant surprises. In-proof packaging of cardboard were neatly packed in the module itself, a small CD with drivers, battery charger, mono hands-free. At the very bottom in a transparent plastic cover was detected, and PCMCIA adapter, which I did not expect to find here, I confess, very happy. The fact is that, apart from a handheld computer, I have a laptop. It turned out that "a new piece of metal" I can experience and on it. In general, the words - to the point ... What is a Pretec CompactGPRS? Housing unit is made of black plastic with a small "smiling" laths. In its upper part is a network light, switched on subtly gleaming green. Depending on the task that the device performs the moment, its color changes. During operation, charging, for instance, turns red. On the right edge of the body is an antenna. It is made of mobile and can be rotated 360 degrees relative to the attachment. In the stowed "position, it is convenient to deploy along the hull in order to save space. On the left edge are connections for the headset and power supply. For the first time, taking a module in your hands, I was somewhat embarrassed by the fact that it lacked any hint of connection to a SIM card. Sly developers put him deep inside the device. In order to make CompactGPRS really a full-fledged means of communication had to remove the top cover, after raising a special catch, and connect Simka directly on the board. In a detachable part of hiding a small battery that occupies most of the body. Thus, the preparation is complete and you can now go directly to the setup and operation of the device. For a start it took to install the necessary software. On the disk supplied drivers for the Pocket PC and PCs, as well as the software company BVRP. Desktop software supports virtually all operating systems from Microsoft, from "rudimentary» Windows 95 to WinXP. The application interface is implemented rather unusual - in the form of a nice mobile phone. This program "Cell" may be minimized to tray, almost reminding me of themselves at work. On the Pocket PC installation occurs without any problems (as on Pocket PC 2002, and on Windows Mobile 2003). For his work with the module responsible program PhoneTools. Appendix adds to the normal PDA functions inherent communicators on Pocket PC Phone Edition, such, for example, direct dialing the subscriber with the numeric keypad, a call from his notebook, receiving and sending SMS, GPRS-setting connections, work with Internet services and regular surfing on the network. However, virtually all the "features" are implemented through its own soft shell, but not integrated into the system. This, in my opinion, the main disadvantage of using the tandem-CompactGPRS PDA as a mobile. To receive calls, for example, want to keep the program running, and with it turned on the device itself. As a phone, the module can be used only when necessary. When you run the system will automatically search the network. Here programmers from BVRP users had great service, "scoring" in the database setup for a huge number of mobile operators around the world. Fortunately, the Russian side was not spared. When you first start with my SIM card PhoneTools easily identified "MTC" and suggested the use of the available presets. Generally, the program "learns" about 40 Russian companies, including regional ones. Of capital providers is also famous "Beeline", but users of "Megaphone" will make all the settings manually. Speaking of plants. These include a sufficiently large number of parameters - from the telephone support service to the attention of the GPRS-connection from the input of which (thanks to the developers!), The user is completely relieved:) In a word, turned on - and it works! As I have said, the program PhoneTools, in fact, allows you to turn your PDA running Pocket PC to your device, giving it the same opportunities, which gives Phone Edition, and even beyond that ... Firstly, this application allows you to work with full faxing. You can create them directly on the PDA, accompanying graphics and logos in the format. Bmp. In addition, there is an opportunity to add to the finished fax notes by hand, attach text files and documents Word. The program has several design templates from which you can choose the most suitable.Prepare a report, if necessary, you can send to multiple subscribers. In short, a full-fledged fax machine in your pocket! Again, you can only receive faxes when running the program. Secondly, the extended functionality in your notebook. PhoneTools lets you copy an entry from a standard address book on the SIM card and vice versa, one click to select contacts for sending SMS and faxes. For those who are constantly working with a large number of subscribers, may be useful ability to create multiple notebooks. Function is similar to the category of the standard "Contacts", but realized much easier. For example, in a phone book may be placed only a fax number or mobile phone and use it to create lists, and in the other - to record the working phones and so on. A few words on how to show a module in the case. " Pretec CompactGPRS tested for Pocket PC Mitac Mio 528 through the Compact Flash-jacket, as well as the HP iPAQ h2210 and a laptop running Win98. Also in the experiment "involved the mobile operator MTS with its tariff plan Optima Day." In all of the claimed device module has proven extremely positively. Complaints of exploitation have virtually none. It would be desirable, of course, be able to supply and battery charging via CF-slot: the moment when the laptop or PDA connected to the mains, it was not bad "feed" and the module. But, unfortunately, have to carry another charger and take sometimes a necessary outlet:) The speed of Internet connections is largely dependent on the workload of the network itself. The maximum rate when downloading, the manufacturer, is 85.6Kb / s. On personal feelings, during normal operation of the figure hovers around 36-40 kb / s, which is enough to get your e-mail, surf the internet and communicate on ICQ. Module keeps the connection is very confident, no crashes and hangs. For all the tests took place off just because the battery is depleted. His way, enough for about 5-6 hours of continuous operation GPRS. Frankly, getting Pretec CompactGPRS, did not really want to part with it. Home, not having fixed network connections (dialup in the calculation does not take), I could whole evenings chatting on ICQ on your laptop without having to download a cell phone. At the weekend, walking around town with a PDA in your pocket, instantly receive all necessary information about the nearest movie theaters and clubs. Fortunately, the web is enough places to do it:) While waiting to turn into a public institution I am very productive while away a couple of hours, participating in the mobile forums and answering emails. Unfortunately, the time allotted for the test module, and writing the review had expired, and return it to the warehouse. With CompactGPRS Internet was available than ever, and nowhere else. By good quickly get used to it ... And finally, a reasonable question: for whom does this device? At a time when almost every cell phone within $ 150-200 is able to connect to the web, such modules may seem superfluous. But it's not quite true. Pretec CompactGPRS - can be an excellent solution for users working with both Pocket PC and a laptop. We are talking about those who already have these devices and is not going to change them, but feels the need for constant access to the Internet. Feature-rich mobile phone is very good, but we must not forget that the phone is made primarily for voice communication. You probably noticed that sometimes requires the Internet and regular relationship at the same time, especially outside the office, business trips, meetings, retreats and many more where.In such situations, compact GPRS can become an indispensable thing, capable of quickly and efficiently meet the demands of the user, as in access to services global network and in organizing the "mobile office with fax and voice communication. Pretec CompactGPRS can buy in the shops of "computer in the palm for $ 270. The authors, translation:

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.