Operating System Penbex OS - in search of cheap solutions

The advent of new operating systems - a rare event, even more so. when it comes to operating system for handheld computers. Therefore the news of the release of handheld machines running the original Penbex OS has caused us increased interec. We have long been accustomed to the balance of forces on the PDA market, where the ball is ruled by Microsoft with its Windows CE and Pocket PC and the company Palm. The situation has not changed and with the cessation of production of keyboard Pocket PC Psion, as these machines occupy a niche and compete with besklaviaturny PDA (Psion rooted causes of the failure, most likely in a general decline in demand for small computers with built-in keyboard, and not in some kind of total dominance of the Pocket PC and Palm). As a result, Psion come to grips with software development for mobile communication devices, and the alignment of forces on the PDA market has remained the same as it was - with a small margin of Palm computers, and heightened pressure from the rival platform with the operating system from Microsoft. The main reason for constraining growth in demand for handheld and as a result of technology development - the high cost of small computers for the end user. Handheld computer - a device combining and optional. It can not function without regular synchronization of data between a PDA and a desktop machine (or laptop). This tool, a means of rapid access to stored pre-information off-line image viewer, text and multimedia files and more. Pocket PC, as well as any personal computer can be called "Player Programs". But this PDA software are inferior in terms of functionality, versatility and ease of data processing programs for the "big" cars. In addition, the PDA is not (and still can not be) sufficiently deep and fast means for storing large amounts of information. It is indeed "a computer in the palm" - a miniature digital device for reading and sometimes put in the memory typewriter small amount of data. In principle, without a handheld computer can easily do without. In the end, the possibility of traditional books, paper notepad, electronic calculators and watches are far from exhausted. And here in the foreground price Pocket PC. If entry-level cars were selling for 50-100 dollars (talking about current models, on sales of obsolete machines cost $ 100 and below are not uncommon), would be a long time we reflect on the appropriateness of their purchase? Large print runs of the issue (and, of course, sales), electronic notebooks only support this idea. But the ultimate cost of a pocket computer composed not only of the price of hardware and applications. The lion's share of the cost of the operating system. On the example of the very low-cost PDAs based on Windows CE 3.0 - Casio Pocket Manager BE-300 - we can see that only the manufacturer's refusal of the application of the software package from Microsoft (in the BE-300 used only the core operating system and core applications are developed independently) allowed to market a Pocket PC PDA-class retail value of less than $ 200 ($ 199 in the U.S., Russia, these computers are up to 75 dollars more expensive). That is, savings of at least $ 150. Nearly 80 percent of the final price Casio BE-300! Is this not a reason to actively seek alternative solutions - at least to get the major players in the PDA market to temper their appetites?

What return?

Attempts to develop a new alternative operating system have been made since the advent of handheld computers. The most glaring example - the various versions of Linux, tailored for use on PDAs. Alas, a lot of success so far failed to get anyone, although Japan and the U.S. computers preloaded with Linux operating system sold and used by certain demand (otherwise would not have produced). The reason for the prolonged delivery "of mobile version of Linux is in the system itself. For Pocket PC is too "heavy" and functionality is redundant. In this sense, redundant and Windows CE, but we already know what resources were attracted by Microsoft to promote its product - even after the apparent failure of the first version of Windows CE, and based on its devices.Operating system Windows CE and Linux should be considered as a basis for the Pocket PC-class Hi-end, approaching the cost and performance to a portable personal computers. This is a true multimedia station, pocket-sized, largely designed for entertainment, for playback of digital audio, and viewing of multimedia content - a full-color graphics and video. Most users, polls show, it was necessary electronic notebook with a well-developed service and the ability to transfer to your PDA the data needed in their daily activities. Stop whether simple models of Palm users with monochrome screens, lack of computer resources for high-quality audio reproduction, a modest computational power of the processor or the impossibility of displaying information in color? None. Most owners of these machines is quite happy with their digital assistants, and is not particularly want to change it to a newer model. The principle of reasonable sufficiency, which guides many PDA users the choice of a small computer that is not beneficial to the manufacturer, but by and large - and the consumer. Try to find in the computer world, such longevity as a Palm. But relatively "fresh" model differs from the first m125 Palm Pilot cars are much smaller than, say, computers with Pentium III processors from the Pentium IV. In the first case, productivity growth is negligible, and the capacity of programs, virtually unchanged. In the second case, we can talk about productivity growth at times and qualitatively new opportunities in processing, for example, graphics and video. Whatever it was, but "race frequencies" in the world of handheld computers has begun. So far, only the family Pocket PC, and Palm does not blowjob cup, if the company intends to remain among the world's leading manufacturers. And yet the army of simple computer users with modest computing power is huge (and increasing with the change of generations of handheld computers, as the life cycle of the CPC long-lasting than that of personal computers - at least 3 years, and for the Palm, and even more) to ignore it. Both Asian (mainly Taiwanese) companies are active in this area.
Operating System Penbex OS - in search of cheap solutions
The first noticeable and, judging by the shelves, an unsuccessful project was an operating system for computers called palmopodobnyh MineOS, developed by Axisoft Technologies for the company MSI, which released the Chinese clone of Palm - computer EZnow. This operating system was written in the flash memory machines, and could be optionally replaced by a "native" OS. The program's interface and core application in practical use can be considered more comfortable than the palm `-native. In particular, the window of handwriting information EZnow appeared on a call, as workspace systems Graffiti this computer has been replaced by the SIP application buttons. Some revolutionary differences MineOS of Palm OS could not be found, except that one - an alternative operating system was according to the manufacturer open and completely free. But why - was? Maybe somewhere (in China or other countries), it lives. But we have not developed. And now, at the last exhibition in Hanover, the public was presented the second version of the new operating system from the company Penbex Data System. The first version Penbex OS appeared a year ago. But today the company announced its product as the basis of no less than for even a single hardware platform handhelds. At this time - the most affordable in the history of technology development digital assistants.

Sheep in Sheep's Clothing

Break new platform at a relatively established market (relative to - because handhelds are progressing at breakneck speed), it is almost hopeless.Need some fundamentally new quality, which could distract potential (and actual) users of handheld computers from the now familiar families of Pocket PC and Palm.
Operating System Penbex OS - in search of cheap solutions
Incidentally, the devices based on Penbex OS live not only on paper. They are already available and like to sell. While this is nine models with monochrome screens. But none of these computers apparently not yet reached the foreign markets, and therefore only known Taiwanese user (although it is possible that computers are already available in neighboring countries in the region). The main advantages of the system, designed to "win" the acknowledged leaders, it's complete openness and low cost (explicit indication that the system is completely free, I have not found).
Operating System Penbex OS - in search of cheap solutions
The new operating system puts certain demands on the hardware. Curious to see what it is, the family computer Penbex. Here is a brief list of the technical characteristics of a typical PDA running the new operating system - a device the same as other models, even in minor details. The only difference is in the design of the hull and in the arrangement of control buttons.
Operating System Penbex OS - in search of cheap solutions
    Features:
  • Central Processing Unit - Motorola DragonBall VZ328 such a frequency of 16 MHz
  • Touchscreen monochrome 4-level grayscale display and dims. Passive matrix. Screen resolution - 160x160 pixels. Operating System Penbex OS supports the conclusion of the 16-bit color, but devices with a color screen on the market yet.
  • The system itself and the main applications are written to flash memory 512 KB (on some models - up to 4 megabytes).
  • Memory - 8 MB. Type of Memory - EDO or SDRAM (ie - no flash).
  • As a source of supply for all machines (I mean already produced computers) uses built-in lithium ion battery. Voltage - 3 B.
  • All computers are equipped with an infrared port (the operating system supports far only the wireless exchange of data between two PDAs, but not connected to a laptop or a desktop machine), a piezoelectric buzzer as the system dynamics, exit to stereotelefony (MP3 player is implemented in hardware, software and audio included in the composition of the main applications in the operating system)
  • To synchronize with your desktop computer using a serial port RS-232C, USB support is missing.
  • As an expansion slot is used CompactFlash. However, the operating system, except cards CF, supports a standard MMC card and SD.
  • Dimensions and weight characteristics of new computers in general coincide with similar computers family Palm.
Programmers are likely to be interested in the fact that Penbex offers everyone a free SDK with emulator software for Windows. In this operating system provided file system support FAT16, support at the system level of work in dBase3, API-function calls, MP3-player and library work with SD-card support for color displays (Penbex version 2.x). What good, then - well. Development tools integrated with Visual Studio 6.0, which certainly is convenient for programmers who are accustomed to this IDE.

What's on the horizon?

How much do you think the chances of this Penbex grab their piece of the total market pie? It seems to me - quite a bit. Operating system interface quite crude.More on-screen buttons next to the area handwriting (six instead of four in Palm). Slightly differently drawn icons of programs ... The screen is not impressive at all, not to say that is depressing ... From time to time the market appears cheap computers with unique operating systems. They are slightly below the level for Palm, but not too much of them behind. Example - Pocket PC Pocket Viewer from Casio, which are heavily advertised in Russia. Like it is a good machine (on the quality of the screen, if only to read books, work with spreadsheets and playing simple games, they are perhaps better than monochrome Palm `s, although it does not support greyscale), but something about her all the same lacking. Namely - the popularity. As a result, software written by amateurs or those computers, or by the manufacturer. The total number of programs for the Casio PV will be hardly one hundredth of the total number of applications for Palm. And maybe less. No, I saw a hand-held computers Penbex any advantage over the machine from Palm. Moreover, the position Penbex worse than that computers with the operating system EZnow Mine OS. There's a unique change the operating system on the Palm OS - a pushover (as when buying a computer only pay for the hardware if the OS is indeed free of charge). Get it with a computer-based Penbex OS? There is quite a different logic implementation of the management of hardware buttons (in this part of the CCP Penbex resemble an amazing hybrid computers, Palm and Pocket PC). In my opinion, Penbex and companies who make a bet on this operating system, there is only one way to succeed - to release a massive model of Pocket PC to an extremely low price. Nothing other than cost, the new platform is not able to attract. This, alas, yesterday ... However, speculate about hypothetical delights and drawbacks - it stupid and useless. Wait and see. Perhaps the developers udast'sya bring it to an acceptable level and make the CCP property of the broad masses. In any case, the company Penbex Data System should say thank you for some variety, it has introduced a Pocket PC user. Or hope for this variety. The authors, translation:

Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300

When was already prepared an article on the shell EpodXP 1.5 and its competitors SQPL Pocket PC Casio BE-300, a new version of Epod. As promised, we present a brief overview of her.

New User Interface

EpodXP 1.9, as all the latest version sports a new desktop background. Here it is:
Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300
These are the wallpaper in a new EpodXP
On the desktop, has become noticeably more icons (preparing the previous screenshot I rubbed them to make it easier to see the picture). Now with one click you can get access to all PIM-applications: Calendar, Contacts, Notes and Tasks. In addition, the desktop is Recycle Bin, the icon EpodXP, performing the functions of My Computer, shortcuts for notepad, calculator, Windows Media Player and page Today.
Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300
On the desktop, the new version was noticeably tighter Epod
In the System Tray are now immediately at startup appears switch tasks (called for some reason he Palm Page) and utility call virtual keyboard. Palm Page displays a list of open programs, and draws the right of each small cross. At first, it is difficult to get, but generally the system fairly easy (especially since there is a function "close all"). Utility for the call-screen keyboard can only include the standard "kasievsky" keyboard and can not even switch on as standard program handwriting, not to mention the additional keyboards. To print on a Russian keyboard RussBE, to use the utility SipSelector, preserved from earlier versions. By the way, a convenient task manager Task of EpodXP 1.5 (and earlier) also moved to version 1.9. They can be used instead of the Palm Page.
Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300
Get on this cross in Palm Page uneasy
Pocket Facelift no longer loaded by default. Quickly turn it on by adding a shortcut on the desktop (the program itself is in a folder \ Storage Card \ Novo).

Programs

Virtually the entire set of programs from previous versions remain unchanged. But something still updated. Firstly, I have earned the Recycle Bin, which was not observed in 1.5 (maybe it was just a glitch my typewriter? "). Now the file, as expected, you can drag the stylus in the basket, and then recover from there. Second, change the look of Windows Media Player. Now it is an exact replica of what is installed in the PDA with Pocket PC 2000. However, despite the availability of utilities to configure the hardware buttons to control playback using the joystick and other keys are not. Changes in sound quality I had not noticed.
Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300
Here is the updated Media Player
The most interesting novelty - Page Today (program, it launches, called KCSkinner). If the distance to show friends the BE-300-enabled KCSkinner, you can even fool them by saying that you have a real Pocket PC. Today - almost an exact copy of the startup screen machines with PPC 2000 and 2002. Even the top there is a button labeled Start. True, it does not work. The next line displays the date, below - the field of contacts. Clicking the icon launches the relevant program contacts. Then comes a string program shortcuts that are in Control Panel (all the labels work.)Further, there are rows calendar and tasks. Here, unfortunately, work Today less like a work of analogues for PPC. Shows only a calendar entry, but in both lines (and Calendar, and Task). You can not poke the stylus in the job and move to the editing window. Problem does not appear at all (that is visible, but only if the "export" the problem in a calendar entry).
Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300
Almost a copy of the Pocket PC - Today screen
As a "pleasant trifles," added utility off the screen. She was very convenient to use when listening to music - the battery spends less energy Finally, a nuisance. Internet Explorer no longer run at all. If before the problem was solved by turning off the Pocket Facelift, now the same picture (reproduction of an infinite number of windows) is observed without Facelift.

Total

Almost Pocket PC on the Casio BE-300
Here's what happens when you start Internet Explorer
In general, the new version EpodXP quite attractive. The shell, originally aimed at improving the appearance, it performs its task at best. Looks Casio BE-300 EpodXP 1.9 just fine. Sophisticated user intefeys makes it not only enjoyable, but also convenient. The only serious drawback - idle IE. In addition, as in previous versions I was not able to connect to a desktop PC via PC Connect. Nevertheless, EpodXP 1.9 left very good impression. PS EpodXP 1.9 Download from here authors, translation:

"The fifth front" work, Toshiba

Yesterday in the Moscow hotel "Holiday Inn Vinogradovo" held a press conference organized by the representative of Toshiba in Russia. For two hours in a dozen reports which have articulated four managers, in turn, successive, was told about the outcome of the fiscal year and new products the company.
"The fifth front" work, Toshiba
According to director of sales in Russia, Toshiba agreed to replace the familiar image of the laptop manufacturer, and sent part of the effort to develop line of handheld computers and wireless solutions. We recall that the European PDA-market the company entered last year with its debut model for OS Pocket PC 2002 - the French version of the PDA Genio e 570. As explained at the press conference, this machine even had time to become a hit model, and all thanks to its broad multimedia capabilities: playing video and audio files (supports the popular MP3 and MPEG4). In addition, last year she became the first Pocket PC to new OSes Pocket PC 2002, equipped with two expansion slots for memory - Secure Digital and Compact Flash. However, it is impossible to say that the PDA-Toshiba penance after her first success in this market has become one of the full activities of the company. Rather, it can be called "fifth front work" after the brand-name laptops, electronic equipment, servers and projectors.
"The fifth front" work, Toshiba
By "the fifth front" attitude as the fifth front. Briefly and vaguely presented specifications of two new models, extends the range of Genio - e310 and e710. At a makeshift booth attended the very debut e570 and which has no outward signs of identification pocket machine in silver casing. It later emerged that this - the new E310, which will soon be sold in Russia.
"The fifth front" work, Toshiba
Maybe she will go on sale next month. Meanwhile, at a press conference was presented, judging by their appearance, developer version of this device: a thin awkward for handheld Pocket PC 2002, weighing 180 g with a beautiful screen, not inferior in quality display, hi-end Pocket PC Compaq iPAQ, the original matrix from Toshiba. Features screen - 3.5 "TFT, 240x320 pixel resolution, 64 thousand colors. However, nothing special, this PDA is no different - StrongArm processor with a clock frequency of 206 MHz, 32 MB (RAM), 32 MB (ROM). From the older model did not inherit For some reason the two expansion slots. There is only one - size Secure Digital. Although it can boast of new lithium-ion batteries, which allow to work continuously for 10 hours.
"The fifth front" work, Toshiba
Synchronization connector Toshiba e310
"The fifth front" work, Toshiba
The upper part, SD slot, Toshiba e310
Incidentally, another interesting trend - new laptops from Toshiba are now equipped with an expansion slot such as Secure Digital - it seems that this standard is slowly gaining popularity among manufacturers. Yes, and also fits into the overall concept of the CCP-direction from Toshiba - as "a reflection of company's capabilities in the integration of wireless systems." All present at the press conference device can actually be made ​​to work together, as most of them support wireless Bluetooth or 802.11 standards, or at least has an expansion slot, which can connect the appropriate peripherals. As for the second new items - e740, focused on corporate clients in Russia, it has not been brought. This is a very recent model and it is unknown whether it will even be sold here. Yesterday, even photographs of the cars in Moscow of representatives was not. And here is a snapshot of what we found on a French site.
"The fifth front" work, Toshiba
e740 (left) and e310 (cprava)
Tell you more about it. It is noteworthy that the e740 will be equipped with the new processor XScale c 400 MHz and carry on board two times more RAM - 64 MB, as well as to support the wireless standard Bluetooth, 802.11. She, like the corporate model will have more opportunities to expand: in addition to SD, and even CF-clot. In conclusion, our theme at the press conference it was said a few words about that as mobile wireless systems are used worldwide. However, we are writing about this almost every day in our news ... The authors, translation:

Future without wires - GPRS today and tomorrow

Future without wires - GPRS today and tomorrow
First, give up due jaded cliches ... World of the future will be mobile. It will be mobile in all respects, especially in the information. Had trouble with what we know about it instantly - much faster than we learn today, on broadcast channels or through the press. Information has long been a hot commodity, but these days it becomes a necessary condition for normal functioning. A huge number of people around the world to earn money outside the office. Work at home, work in a way, the work on the way from home to work ... Over time, this nightmare will become commonplace, and many of the usual Today things have changed beyond recognition. For example, money. They probably will not do - in the sense of cash. Will electronic money (which is complete and now - in the form of payment credit cards) will be even more e-money (for payments via the Internet map itself is not needed, need a bank account and its details), will be the virtual equivalent of money, having no physical counterpart (all wealth in the mobile phone - for crying out loud). So, the world of the future will be mobile, and it's nice ... Just as we have today? Else wants to live, and without delay, without looking enviously over the horizon. In principle, we already are mobile to impossibility. Wireless Voice is available to anyone with at least some money ... Not exactly - the farther from the Garden Ring, the smaller the wireless because of reducing the number of those who have money. In some villages in our northern and eastern regions of ordinary people and something you have not seen, not that mobile. But that's another topic ... Until recently, when a cell phone in Russia is still "ustakanivalsya, throwing fake white clothes expensive toys and clad in shabby overalls worker, our mobility is limited opportunity to talk on the phone directly on the run. On a serious work, but angry valuable suggestions or hurried negotiations over trifles, and speech was not. No, the "mobile Internet" was, is and will be. Can be directly from the phone (look into a gray screen in an attempt to disassemble - which is where translit indicated), we can by phone with a handheld computer, you can with the laptop. But - speed. 9.6 Kbps - is not available. It is only in the WAP-e jokes to read. Mobile Internet, as well as "mobile office" (an office in your pocket, palm, armpit, and so on) - an empty sound to ever since, until he is provided with high-speed, reliable and cheap wireless ... More recently, the largest cellular operators in Russia have introduced a service that we were looking forward to - supports GPRS. And since then our lives and in fact became mobile. That is - can become if we evaluate the possibility of GPRS, and operators will not be too lazy to develop this remarkable technology.

What's in a name?

After a magnificent entry into some technical information. GPRS - General Packet Radio Service - a system for packet data in a cellular network GSM. It increases the rate of exchange of information over wireless networks, does not overload the communication channels at the same time is very cheap channel for data transmission. Immediately the question - how much cheaper? Imagine, less any other available today, wireless communication channels. If the idea of ​​signalers transfer of fixed telephone lines on time payment to become a reality for many of us, GPRS will be a real alternative to wired access to the global network - the difference in cost would be negligible ... How can this be? Is GPRS the user does not pay for connection time? Are cellular operators will be used for the introduction of special rates for internet users? For operators - pure devastation. But the fact of the matter is that for the transmission or reception of data via GPRS we do not have to pay the total connection time, but time spent on information-sharing and the development of the service - only traffic. Secret - the technology GPRS. This protocol uses a data-free channels, giving priority to voice communications.Moreover, data transmission is carried out in several packages (the number to seven, although it is used less) free channels. This process is as follows. To call the operator and running on the PDA, Smartphone, PDA or laptop browser or mail program, we send a request to send or receive information. The base station receives the request, generates an array of data pieces of information - packages, looking for free channels and transmits in parallel. If the data rate on one channel does not exceed 14 kbit / s (normal to date figure), then using the GPRS technology, the exchange rate is doubled, tripled and so on (up to seven times) - depending on the number of channels used. Simultaneously, the base station converts the data from the GSM format in formats that are used by TCP / IP to communicate on the Internet. Transfer rate (ie number of channels on which there is an exchange), the value is not constant. The larger the network load, the exchange rate is less, since both free transmission of voice data channels are also smaller. But in a more or less free time (at night or early morning), the exchange rate increases - due to the simultaneous use of more free channels ... One of the benefits to GPRS, which is difficult to overestimate, is not to overload the normal channels used for transmission of voice data (in other words - for phone calls), even with heavy traffic of wireless Internet connections. Phones, communicators and smartphones with full support for GPRS at the hardware level, to allow a telephone conversation and connect to the Internet simultaneously. In this case, no one feels uncomfortable - the data is transferred exclusively to the free channels. And if someone does not have enough air in place, "channel that is the transfer of data must be released immediately for voice communications. And the base station is immediately looking for another free channel. However, is able to do only the most perfect (and probably most expensive) class of communications equipment - the so-called class A terminals GPRS. Only he can simultaneously support voice communications and to exchange data. A more democratic type of terminal GPRS - Class B - "can" work in voice and terminal mode alternately. That is, when you connect to the Global Network of voice, especially telephone device functions are not available. To this class are the most massive models of phones with support for GPRS.
Future without wires - GPRS today and tomorrow
The third type - class C - it joins the device to laptops or handheld computers. They are made in the form of cellular communication modules supporting GPRS. Format of the modules - cards PC card or CompactFlash (in principle, possible device in a format any memory cards or simply connected to the ports on your computer). Such a module makes a PDA or laptop into a powerful tool for wireless communications. Most often uses a combination cell phone, into Class B, and a laptop. The link between your phone and PC is made via an infrared port or a data cable RS-232, last used more often, because in practice turns out to be more reliable - Infrared communication is subject to interference. Less frequently used tandem of cell phones and PDAs. The point, again in practice. CCP only in words is useful for viewing web-pages. The small screen forces the user to endlessly move the screen scroll bar, or up to a limit to scale down the page in the browser. A lack of high-capacity drives can not keep the PDA any significant amount of information ... But sounds appealing - the whole world in your pocket. " Is not it? Yet the most seductive look smart phones - a computerized cell phones with built-in email clients and viewers WAP-resources.In addition, they are wireless modems for connecting desktop, laptop or PDA to the Internet, they are able to use network resources on their own - at least to accept and send email that is very, very much.

Today and tomorrow

It is quite clear that we are at the beginning of a long road. That while the GPRS technology has more in words than in deeds. This is evidenced by a small number of customers who use charms GPRS least to some extent ... But the number is growing frightening pace! At times, dozens of times and every day ... This is not a statement, a hypothesis is only partially supported by the facts. What prevents the widespread dissemination of GPRS? First, it is not entirely clear prospects wonderful technology. Cellular operators are not rushing to invest heavily in the improvement of base stations, without having a clear idea about the possible demand for wireless data services. Part of the problem goes away with the scandal-time wage talks on wire lines. In the regions under a deal providers rushed to the limit to reduce the price of your Internet connection. Today, the cheapest Internet must be sought not in Moscow, but somewhere in Voronezh or in Vologda. Cellular operators, having rough calculations and concluded - wireless Internet access using GPRS can cost no more than wired - if I time payment for the use of fixed communication channels, of course. Moreover, if sufficiently widespread GPRS it is possible to reduce the price (it is better to get a ruble to a million users, a million to a handful of what some nouveau riche) ... Imagine, in some developed countries (eg Japan), wireless access is already cheaper than wired! Add to this the convenience of mobile access - possibility to check the mail in the car or while walking ... The second reason (go back to the aforesaid transfer) curbing the proliferation of GPRS someone may seem controversial. This is my personal speculation, but it seems to me that it is not particularly distorts the truth ... It's about the complexity of configuring GPRS. The technology is very comfortable - in their work. But in order to properly set up your phone and your computer will need to look at the website operator and become familiar with the "wow" statement ...
Future without wires - GPRS today and tomorrow
Not quite a direct parallel - with the introduction of new services "Bee Line" beeinfo ". This electronic directory of cell phone menu. That is in the handset's menu for its inclusion of the SIM-card memory overwrite the pre-filled back rooms of service centers. Information services - Weather forecast, exchange rate, other background information (availability of tickets at theaters, horoscope, addresses, organizations, and much, much more) - are provided in the form of messages SMS, who come to the phone user. But it does not have to remember or make a phone book list of numbers on which you can get an information service. These numbers are entered in the phone as a text, clearly marked and easy to read paragraphs - "Jokes", "Aphorisms," "Holidays" ... The same without cost is available to all subscribers of Bee Line. Only to select the service (by the way, most are not free) is necessary to open special reference booklet attached to each phone and dial the appropriate number. That's it. You know, it's a great marketing ploy - to bring their goods (in this case - the service) to the consumer, make it simple, understandable and easy to use. Is there time for housewives or the eyeballs busy working business person to play with these horoscopes (in the sense - with the settings dial, its storage in the phone address book)? And if this horoscope is just a button on-screen with a Russian inscription - and why not? Around the same thing should happen with the service GPRS. Automatic, or at least, extremely simplified set up your phone, followed by a paper comic book (like the Japanese, supplying sophisticated electronics guide "for babies"), and even better - a pop-up help screen.And on the box with the phone write: "This thing is able to connect to the Internet and receive - send e-mail without taking off your pants last." Success is practically guaranteed. Without a little fanfare, but true ... The third leading cause of - the technical plan. To effectively use today's GPRS rates of exchange via GSM is not enough. Hence the first task - increase in rates of exchange. The second objective - improving the technology of parallel transmission of data packets over the free channels, ie, increasing the number of channels simultaneously involved. And what other problems are real and doable. It's safe to say - will demand service, will do the rest. Technical re-equipment (as well as research in this area) requires considerable investment. In the meantime, as we have said, the prospects are covered by a haze of uncertainty ... Which in the eyes of the dissipated into mist.
Future without wires - GPRS today and tomorrow

Phones, phones, and I'm a little

Future without wires - GPRS today and tomorrow
We're talking about GPRS, how about something not readily available. Meanwhile, take advantage of this beauty can be today - just look at the sites of the Moscow operators or visit the nearest phone shop (how much their in the capital). True, we need an appropriate apparatus ... Also, in general, not a problem. Choosing a new phone, we draw attention to its list of service functions. Well, there's WAP, email, organizer ... A must watch for the presence of support for GPRS! Then everything else is simply attached. (What is GPRS without mail and browser?) Descriptions of current models, because of their multiplicity, is omitted. Better think about it - what would have wished. What will be in stores soon and what should be chosen. There are many vkusovschiny. Someone like machines unusual - with built-in QWERTY-keyboard or players MP3. Some prefer ultra-secure phones that although the ground, though on the wall - still work. And who will choose the device with a large screen - not to squint, as if Blinded chicken. I like the sound devices (and who does not like them?) And multifunctional. I do not see much point in using a handheld computer, if I had a multifunction device. But at the same time it must be small in size, like a cell phone, and with the ability to synchronize with a laptop - and, not only for updating the phone book ... Appears, say, a phone with a screen Panasonic GD95, with POP3 and SMTP mail client (in the Panasonic already has), infrared, and even better with a Bluetooth port, but still ... with chitalochkoy for e-books, I would not hesitate to get rid of his pocket machines and would have worn in the pocket only this machine. But it's me (who else but not a role model). Other users need from your phone other possibilities. For example, the built-in camera, color screen, large memory, the same player MP3 ... The abundance of new models of the listed functions - a merit of developing cellular standards, including GPRS. In fact, that the proc from the built-in digital camera when shot from it can not be sent via radio communication to their respondent or myself - to my computer? But the shipment through the usual connection is capable of ruining anyone (and frazzle your nerves the expectation of the end of the protracted transfer of the session). That is why we and looked for new vehicles more from a theoretical point of view than from the practical. Now we can not only watch, but ask the price - thanks to the introduction of GPRS. As for handheld computers in their classic form, then the future for hybrid devices - for communicators. Though small PDA screen, but it is at times more than the phone display.Though easy to use advanced cell phones, but you can download and run on a PDA computer programs a great deal. How to configure your phone to fit your needs? How to take advantage of its considerable computing power (and in every cell phone is living a very good computer), if needed programs in its permanent memory no? Not such a trifle. Remember how we (those of us who are old and very very unpretentious phones) enviously eyeing the owners of vehicles with built-in calendar and organizer, multifunctional ... Pocket PC - an optional thing, we begin to actively use them only accustomed to, "sitting down" on this entertaining Things (by the way, happens very quickly). A cell phone is always there. Without it, as without hands ... Hence - one more assumption. Should take the machine with great potential. Organizer - is a trifle. But the infrared port and built-in modem support GPRS, browser WAP (that's really not necessary) and mail client (which is - on the contrary) is very desirable. Today, wireless access to Internet seems to us self-indulgence, but tomorrow it could be that we will run into the store hoping to exchange the phone for something "GPRS-Noah '... Now you can look at the showcases of cellular stores. There are plenty to choose from, right?

Beyond the Horizon

In Russia, for all the latest stories Perepetui unique situation. We have nothing to upgrade, everything has to be rebuilt. We are not burdened with a cargo of outdated technology (not applicable for their complete). This gives hope that the latest advances in communications technology will have hardly any faster than the ocean. In principle, and is happening. We catch up with the West in terms of implementing high-speed communication protocols. So it's not far away and a new generation of devices - with the possibilities of multimedia data, view the displays of their phones movies and plays through high-quality headsets of good music. Say - a fantasy? So far - yes. But give the time ... Yesterday the cell phone was just a head and a very wealthy businessman. Today the cell phone is in the string bag ordinary man in the street - next to the radishes and the morning paper. Who will surprise this once prestigious thing? The widespread introduction of cellular networks it took us about five years. How long will it take for the widespread introduction of GPRS? And more ... Imagine what tears lament originator of fixed telephone lines per povremenku. Probably the same as they were crying postal service, shoot in the early nineties, its cash cow - the system of delivery to subscribers of periodicals. Interesting - happen again if this story? The authors, translation:

"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot

"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Pavilion "Forum": view from above ...
One of the formerly large Russian computer exhibitions "Comtek" this year, organizers decided to rename the "Week of high technologies". In contrast to the calendar, this week will last four days, but one hour in general, sufficient to meet a poor exhibition of the year 2002 computer. Comtek crushed, "yellowed" - virtually the entire core of the Pavilion "Forum" is ubiquitous 1C. The impression that the whole country broke accounting ...
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Toshiba Genio e570
Comes along and across the three pavilions, we found only two (!) Of the stand, when there were relatively new PDA. On display in the first were spotted Series Compaq iPAQ 3800 and Toshiba Genio e570 - French version of the elegant Pocket PC e310 on Pocket PC, which in May will be sold in Russia.
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
In the meantime, SPT1700 rest ... )
The second, which was stand Corporation "Pilot" - industrial PDAs, long known to us, terminals for data collection from the Symbol SPT1500 and SPT1700. These PDAs are designed to automate accounting, warehouse processes, retail and wholesale sales, data collection in different areas (production, transportation, medicine) in extreme conditions, in short, to the dusty work. "Pilot" offers besides themselves PDAs - the original software for them, which, of course, simplifies inventory and reduces costs associated with them.
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Expansion card memory from Lexar
Of the items of interest to us at the exhibition have been seen as memory expansion cards from different manufacturers - cheap Chinese and Japanese presentable from Lexar. On the stand of the distributor are three types - the Running Compact Flash (64 and 128 MB), is not particularly popular, and Smart Media cards in a certain form factor Memory Stick (64 and 128MB), which promotes Sony.
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Own memory cards have been exposed to all the stands, where exposed Sanon digital cameras, Olympus, Sony.
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Sewing Machines "move" on Comtek ...
And next to our attention a lovely sewing machine, which is embroidered !..)))
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Mezhpavilonnoe space was decorated pretty pathetic, except for the handsome motorcycle BMW, designed to symbolize "the world of speed" Intel Pentium 4 processor in combination with Windows XP and two balls - yellow labeled 1C and blue of the journal Upgrade.
"Comtek-2002: report" insofar as &quot
Honestly, this picture was drawn to sign something like - "Day Upgrade" or "nursing mother - a symbol of Comtek 2002" and spend some vague analogy, but let's not ... Just a picture from the exhibition, which somehow and there is nothing more to tell. The authors, translation:

Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300

Casio BE-300 Pocket Manager is positioned as an electronic assistant, not a PDA. The computer assumes office applications, but it turns out that they also have an assistant. Let us find out what kind of programs and how they cope with their responsibilities.

JW Word Processor

Probably one of the most anticipated applications for the BE-300 - Karaman Word. Probably one of the biggest disappointments. In the preview, the version with the usual installation files, which is in the network, you can not even download. To install it requires more than 5 MB of free RAM, while generally in the BE-300 for the user's needs is allocated only 4 "with a penny." The only option - take this one file, unzip it and hands to move it to the BE-300 in the folder \ Program Files on Nand Disk or on a memory card. Secondly, the program can not open Word files from your desktop computer, such as, by the way, and documents "pocket" versions of Word. Here's what happens instead of cookies:
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
Open the file *. doc
JW Word at all originally created as the Anglo-Japanese program, so many of its useful features are focused on Japanese language or to convert between Latin characters and Japanese characters. The latter, incidentally, also two types - "printed" and "cursive." Accordingly, for Russian users, in most cases, these functions are of no interest.
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
How much can be done with the Japanese language!
Russian language is also supported (with localization RussKey BE, but there are some problems. Firstly, normally only open files *. txt. Secondly, the opening must specify the correct file type: either the ASCII, or UTF-7. If offer the program itself to determine the type, is the following:
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
And finally, an incorrigible glitch when typing Russian text: the spaces between the letters and the width approximately equal to the very letter. It turns out very ugly, uncomfortable and, most importantly, because the gap is nearly equal to this gap, which is why it is difficult to understand where one word begins and ends another. The text Latin typed correctly.
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
Latin and Cyrillic at JW Word
Output actually is. In the standard (non-Russified) keyboard to switch to the tab AXNT, where the characters "umlauts" (dots and dashes above the letters) and type them up, know what Russian letter corresponds to each. However, after each application, the keyboard comes back to native mode, so that option is clearly "on the fan." But the text looks like a man. With the disadvantages seem to be finished, proceed to the merits: a program surprisingly functional for Pocket text editor. JW Word otkrytmi can hold multiple documents, and we can close the current one or all at once, switch between them. There's even a list of recently opened files, as in the present Word'e. In the menu Edit - Multiple Undo (and repetition), search (up and down from the current position) with the ability to view all open files at once and AutoCorrect. Formatting can be set for a separate paragraph, as well as for the whole file as a whole.As in "large" Word'e, regulated field, page orientation, headers and footers, you can even write a Summary - a summary of the document. Moreover, there is even a full dictionary with the ability to connect additional units and write the words the user. Would not even the dictionary of Anglo-Japanese! .. There are many settings and intefeysa. For example, you can specify that close when you click the X in the upper right corner - the program or the current file. There is a set of screen fonts, position of the scroll bars work with the clipboard, font cache. Summary: if the program was able to open files even Word for Windows CE and to work properly with the Russian language, the prices would not it have been. At the same time working with it brings more trouble than positive emotions.

SpreadCE

Sad impression of "kasiynogo" analog Word fully compensated by the magnificent "kasiynym" analog Excel - program SpreadCE, incidentally, the owner of a prize ZDNet PDA Software Award for the best software for Windows CE. First of all, no problems with the formats. No problem opening the files desktop Excel, and tables to be converted into "pocket" format with the conservation of all defined on the worksheet functions. Second, works fine Russian. With support for Unicode, Excel table book with Russian letters was opened on the BE-300 when it was not a crack installed. Another thing is that you create and edit pages in Russian needed RussKey BE (Incidentally, in the coming days, will be released a new version).
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
With the Russian language in SpreadCE okay
The program functionality is not inferior to Excel on the desktop. SpreadCE "stand up" 256 columns by 65,536 rows by 32,768 sheets for only a limited amount of free memory at the same time the number of open files. The program "understands" the 317 features (full list available here) and retains 49 macros for creating custom functions. SpreadCE working with array formulas, supports all the editing operations (can be separate copy, cut and paste formulas, numbers, and formats), is the AutoComplete feature. The program also performs all standard operations with cells, rows and kolnkami (add, cut, hide, etc.), sorts the data according to different criteria. Formatting a cell includes, in addition to size, number format, alignment, format, font, borders, shading, setting "Zoom" and protection. Another program is able to draw graphs and charts.
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
Charts in SpreadCE
The only thing I would like to add - the function of screen rotation. The only thing I would like to remove the - sign that the program is shareware. The full version costs $ 20 SpreadCE. However, no restrictions other than those mentioned labels, pop-up when you open each new file, I have not discovered. In addition, use the program so convenient that $ 20 is not too bad.

Pocket Paint

On the BE-300 and can draw. Pocket Paint on the possibilities are virtually identical to the similar applications on the desktop. True, Paint on the BE-300 is not able to open and save images in JPEG and GIF.
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
Our logo on the BE-300
Scaling is done not so easy: either the original size (its way, you can change by setting the length and width in pixels), or a great approximation to the eye, approximately 400%. Cancel previous action works, you can flip the image and reflect a mirror.Program explicitly ported to another PDA, so, for example, the dialog for setting the image size and its color comes out off the screen, as well as the upper panel with buttons. Standard set of tools: selection, eraser, fill, color determinant, a pencil, insert the printed text, line, square, oval. As in "adult" version, you can customize the color.

Primer

This program is designed for viewing files *. pdf (those on the desktop opens Acrobat Reader). Primer is not intended for the BE-300, so it has to be set through Active Sync. In the dialog setup ActiveSync on offer to write files to the default directory, ignore the warning BE-300 that the Primer is not designed for it and work on it will not, and then use the file manager transfer program folder in Program Files directory on the card or in internal memory. Everything works.
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
Works
That is, works in the sense that the *. pdf files are opened. Written in Latin - with no problems, the Cyrillic alphabet - like this:
Excel and Word on the Casio BE-300
Not working
In the settings you can disable the greeting, specify the search parameters, the scale and number of pages to be loaded by default. Mozho also adjust the overall image quality and the amount of system RAM (the more the faster "turned over" the page). The bottom button on the right menu is designed to manage bookmarks.

Total

In contrast, multimedia, office capabilities BE-300 is not too impressive. In this aspect the machine does not run from your PDA Pocket PC. Basically, of course, the impression is made up of the lack of a functioning replacement for Word (a substitute for Excel is beyond praise). Additional problems arise in connection with the use of Russian language. However, programs for Casio BE-300 Pocket Manager continue to emerge and it is hoped that soon the office suite for "Kaskiv" expand. The authors, translation:

EpodXP in Russian!

One of the most popular skins for Casio BE-300 Pocket Manager - EpodXP - now will please user interface in Russian. To do this you need to download this one file and copy its contents into the folder \ Nand Disk \ Program Files \ Patch. After the reboot, the menu will be displayed in Russian, like so:
EpodXP in Russian!
However, after rebooting lost all the programs in the menu "Start". To solve this problem by creating a folder \ Nand Disk \ Program Files \ Patch \ Start Menu and rewriting it in the folder contents \ Nand Disk \ Program Files \ Patch \ Programs folder. Once again, reboot and main menu in order. The names of the programs still remain British, but because it labels, they can be independently "translate into Russian. Desktop shortcuts remain the same. However, the language of their titles can be (and it was possible) to change to Russian. Labels are in the folder \ Nand Disk \ Program Files \ Patch \ Desktop. As a result EpodXP will look very "Russified.
EpodXP in Russian!
Shortcuts on the desktop, too, can "become Russianized"
In addition, Russified menu in File Explorer (Epod), Internet Explorer (which, however, still does not work) and the Recycle Bin.
EpodXP in Russian!
Russian menu in File Manager - is now difficult to accidentally remove valuable file
PS Recently completed beta testing a new version of localization for a standard interface RussKey BE 2.0b, so that we can say that the BE-300 is becoming increasingly available for Russian users. The authors, translation: