Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines

A new line of its PDA series Tungsten Palm Inc company began with the release of the handheld Tungsten T, then appeared Tungsten W, and now came the third variation on Tungsten - a model with an index of C. This is the first computer from Palm Computing Processor Intel PXA 255 and more memory. In the future, most likely, in all of its flagship models the company will use that Intel-Sylow "stones" and left Motorola and Texas Instruments for budgetary decisions. Tungsten C is the first Palm, which according to its specifications practically does not yield a family of models of Pocket PC.

Design and Ergonomics

Few of the box. A typical user usually sees a box once in a lifetime, when buys a computer. Then, in most cases, he throws it, and never remembers nothing about it. Apparently, it is guided by this principle, the company Palm Computing made packages for all their latest models: Zire, Tungsten T and Zire 71. It was a horrible or plastic blister or a combination of plastic with a thin cardboard. With the release of the model Tungsten C Company moved to a small and functionally convenient package.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Inside the box are: computer, AC adapter with three adapters for different countries, cradle, protective cover, paper manual, two CD disk with drivers and additional software and set specific to Palm-s leaflets.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Our hero is virtually the same size from its predecessor, Tungsten T: the same length, only a couple of millimeters wider and thicker than a millimeter. However, they look at it differently.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Tungsten C is distinguished by a smooth line of the body, made from a dense soft-touch plastic. Sufficiently controversial issue, which body is more reliable and easy to use - plastic or metal. It is clear that the metal more durable, but plastic is lighter and cheaper. So the choice of housing is a matter of taste and service conditions. Personally, I like metal - more solid feel and less fear (psychological) damage the body. The new computer system has changed and I consequently disappeared graffiti, which was hidden under a sliding panel. By the way, the classic handwriting and no more, because the computer is now equipped with a system of "Graffiti 2". As the same basic method of data entry offered a miniature keyboard. Printed on it quite comfortably. You can keep the computer with both hands, pressing the keys with your thumbs. All the buttons are dual purpose. For the convenience of the user has a separate button to switch between, which is located in the lower left corner of the keyboard. She highlighted in blue.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Print speed with this method of entering a decent enough, at least, higher than in handwriting. The only question is how will look at a miniature keyboard stickers or laser engraved with the Russian layout. On the keys themselves place no longer exists, unless you arrange them on a small free space between letters, or to learn how to print "blindly". This is not the first time that American developers are not thinking about foreign (not using the Latin alphabet) of the user.True, Department of Mobile development company MakTsentr promises to solve this problem by issuing special stickers with Russian letters, which will be located in mezhduknopochnom space.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
But over the ergonomics of the new device, developers have worked thoroughly: all controls are very convenient. If you hold a computer with two hands, you can easily reach any of the control buttons. The power button is located at all well: if you hold the PDA in her left hand, then it will be just below the little finger. The navigation button has become a little less than the Tungsten T, but that has not ceased to be convenient. The rear panel does not differ notable: the speaker, reset button and fasteners accessories ...
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
At the bottom of the universal connector Palm Connector, compatible with all the accessories for older models.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Top headphone jack and a voice recorder, infrared port, clot SD (IO) and the charging indicator. Headphone jack nonstandard 2,5 mm, as iPaq h1910. In principle, one could complement the PDA free headset, as does Hewlett-Packard, or an adapter 2,5 mm-3, 5 mm. Charging indicator light serves as warning and shows connected your device to the network or not. However, when the computer is connected to the network, understand the battery is charged or not the indicator is impossible, because when connected to a power grid, he's always green. Could make it, for example, a flashing green during charging and always included at 100% battery capacity. At the computer connector to the AC adapter is not, so if you take a long time with a PDA, you'll need to grab and cradle.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Side of the stylus holder and mount a protective case ...
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
It is noteworthy that the cradle has a slot for the network adapter.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Only the latter is usually inserted into the USB cable.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
The kit also includes a solid rubber cap, designed to protect the computer display from external influences.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
The only thing that is made of metal, so it's a stylus. Its upper plastic part can fasten, and under it there is a thin pin, which you can press the reset button.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
The stylus is fairly easy, though, in my opinion, still inferior to design a pen Tungsten T.

Iron

As mentioned above, this is the first PDA with Palm OS operating system, whose technical characteristics are similar to computers Pocket PC: a new processor from Intel, 64MB of RAM (of which the user has access to 51Mb - for the Palm family of computers is just a giant figure), color display with transflective backlit, built-in wireless connectivity.
Processor Intel Xscale PXA255, 400MHz
RAM (MB) 64 (available 51)
Display 3,0 "TFT, 320x320, 64K, transflective
I / O ports IrDA, Palm universal connector (USB 1.1), SD (IO)
communication capabilities built-in 802.11b (Wi-Fi)
multimedia 2,5 mm earphone output (mono) / speaker (mono)
removable media SD / MMC
battery built-in Li-Pol battery, 1500mAch
Dimensions / weight 122h78h16, 5mm/178g

Display

Most of the time when working with the PDA we are perceiving or holding up in the computer information. It is therefore not surprising that the quality of the display increased demands. Fortunately, the screen of our hero does not find fault. As the new model Zire 71, the display features transflective backlit. Palm Computing has so far only two models with excellent displays, but it seems that all future computers will be equipped with the same or even better matrices.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Transflective display with backlight have one drawback: the turn-off, they can be read only in very bright sunlight. Tungsten C developers have solved this problem quite original, the computer can not turn off the backlight, so the information is perceived just fine at any level of ambient light, even at the lowest level of brightness. Maximum brightness is slightly higher than the iPaq h1910, and in my opinion, even redundant, since it is difficult to imagine the working conditions on the PDA, which would be required for such a strong brilliance. True, I still use the "tseshkoy" a couple of times as a flashlight, when opened the front door.

Sound

Tungsten C is positioned as a solution for corporate customers. According to the company, high-quality stereo sound for corporate PDA is not important, therefore, not surprising that the speaker and headphones with Tungsten C mono. So fans of high-quality stereo sound will slug upset. The network has free software for playing MP3 (RealOne Player). Unlike Pocket PC your computer has no built-in microphone and recording voice messages can be implemented only with an optional headset with a microphone, which are good to go in the sales package. You can of course provide the corporate user who does not need stereo sound, but the lack of built-in voice recorder, frankly, surprising. But there is vibration, which in contrast to sound warnings operates quietly and not disturb others.

Wi-Fi

Tangible benefit for enterprise customers is a built-in wireless communication standard Wi-Fi (802.11b). In the U.S., Japan and Western Europe, wireless networks have become a daily occurrence. Now in the U.S., Microsoft has an advertising campaign to provide free Internet access for users of Pocket PC with Wi-Fi adapters. In Russia, with wireless networks is much more difficult, but in Moscow, I managed to find an access point standard Wi-Fi. This hotel chain Marriott (the company provides wireless MosCom Group), where I tested the Wi-Fi adapter Tungsten C.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
With the automatic search function, the operator is determined almost instantaneously, after which the browser loads page hotel and asked to enter an access code, which can be obtained on the spot. It is necessary to connect to a wireless network $ 10 per hour or $ 30 per night. Special test integrated Wi-Fi adapter or the quality of the wireless network company MosCom Group I did not hold, but the speed of the Internet is completely arranged for me - pages and files load faster than on my home modem. While the computer with an active Wi-Fi connection is much lower, despite the stipulated in the standard 802.11b feature reduce power consumption for PDAs and laptops.

Performance

Using a 400 MHz processor allowed to raise the performance of your computer at all-time for Palm-device height. When you work with documents "inhibition" was not at all, "tseshka" behaved very energetic. Unfortunately, it is not possible to objectively compare its performance with counterparts from the clan Pocket PC, but I could not find a program that could significantly slow down your system. To understand how fast the computer works with video, I "drove" it in test mode by entering the package delivery software Kinoma Player 1.5.1. For this purpose, with the participation of the program Kinoma Producer created several videos with different values ​​of the data stream.
Values ​​video playing time, with number of frames frames per second
320x320, 25 frames / s, 480Kb / s 3,7 2198 579
320x320, 25 frames / s, 560Kb / s 3,8 2200 571,5
320x320, 25 frames / s, 640KB / s 3,9 2204 560,9
320x320, 25 frames / s, 720KB / s 4 2210 540
320x320, 25 frames / s, 1000Kb / s 4,6 2241 485,1
Compare these data with Pocket PC is difficult enough, but according to my subjective impressions, video playback at the Tungsten C all right: the image of a smooth even flow of 1000 kB / sec.

Runtime

To test battery life when reading books used the program MobiPocket Reader (v4.6 build 407) in the automatic shift with an average speed of 22-24 characters per second. It's quite decent for an adult reading speed.
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
To be honest, the result I am a little surprised, because the battery life Tungsten C is two times higher than the Tungsten T. View the video (stream 1000Kb / c) from the computer memory in full-screen mode using Kinoma Player 1.5.1 took:
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Again, a double advantage. When playing audio files (mp3, 128Kb / s) from the memory card using the RealOne Player PDA stayed:
Palm Tungsten C: Rise of the Machines
Typically, the use of more powerful processor increases energy consumption and, consequently, to reduce battery life. In the case of the Tungsten C Replacement TI OMAP on Intel PXA led not only to increase productivity, but also doubles the battery life on your computer.

Software

The computer's new operating system Palm OS 5.2.1 (like Zire 71), equipped with a new feature handwriting text "Graffiti 2" allows you to enter text in any part of the screen. In the software bundle includes: Address Book, Calculator, Card Info, Date Book, HotSync, Memo Pad, Note Pad, Preferences, To Do List, World Clock, VersaMail 2.5, PalmSource Web Browser 2.0, Palm Photos 1.0 (for photos) DataViz Documents To Go, Pro Edition 5.003, PPTP VPN client by Mergic, Enhanced Security with built-in Encryption and Password Masking Options, Quick Tour for device overview, keyboard, and 5-way navigator.
    In addition to standard applications, the bonus CD ROM also contains the following programs:
  • Acrobat Reader software
  • advanced calculator PowerOne Personal
  • PrintBoy program to print to a printer via the IR port, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
  • for recording voice notes, Voice Memo (only if there is an appropriate expansion module)
  • World Clock WorldMate
  • Collong Meeting program to synchronize calendars and schedules between the two PDA's Wi-Fi
  • program for reading electronic books Palm Reader
  • Solitaire Game
  • software player audio and video files Kinoma Player
  • program for making video files Kinoma Producer
  • AvantGo and AOL.
    Most recently, Palm Inc. released a new update for the Tungsten C, in which:
  • Fixed errors when dealing with MAC addresses
  • improved caching, and how to update the web-pages Browser
  • improved compatibility with devices HotSpot
  • updated email program VersaMail, which added a VPN client
  • updated sound effects that accompany various events
  • Fixed errors when installing Wi-Fi connection.
The update is only suitable for devices Tingsten C with software version 1950 04/01/2003 23:5 and requires 20 MB of free memory.

Russification

In addition, the package includes a disc of MakTsentr "Russian Palm", which is crack PaPiRus 2003 in the "light" versions. In the "easy" localization PaPiRus 2003 Russified entry system "Graffiti 2 and virtual keyboard. Mode allows the full localization to translate into Russian language interface for all embedded applications, adapts the system settings PDAs for Russia. Supports encoding of the Russian language Windows-1251, KOI8-R. Russification "Graffiti 2" I liked writing the letters as close to traditional. Additionally, there are ergonomic strokes, giving the opportunity to write with shorthand speed.There is a Russian-screen keyboard, background information, accessible from any application, arranged according to the Russian alphabetical sorting and searching for Russian words, it is possible to switch languages ​​with one click on the indicator of language and save all settings after a reboot.

Price

In chain stores computer in the palm »Tungsten C costs $ 499. In the online store PalmStore.ru price - $ 490.

Conclusions

Pluses Cons
Large amount of RAM The monaural speaker and earphone output
High performance MP3 playback with only the memory card
Bright high-contrast display 2,5 mm earphone output
Built-in Wi-Fi No built-in voice recorder
Supports SD (IO)
Convenient and strategically placed controls
Built-in keyboard
Great battery life
Built-in vibrating alert
Compatibility with peripheral devices of previous models (via the universal connector Palm)
Oh great set of supplied software
Frankly, after the first Tungsten T seemed that Palm Inc will soon withdraw from PDA market, replaced by younger and aggressive Pocket PC. But apparently, "there is life in the old dog yet", and after a farewell «I'll be back» from the Tungsten T, we saw a completely new concept of Palm computer. The main conclusion that can be done - the difference Mezhuyev Pocket PC and Palm is becoming less and less. Processor, amount of RAM, the quality of displays and communications capabilities are already identical, and the battery life Tungsten C is kept on a par with the leaders of the family of Pocket PC. Lack of stereo sound due to the orientation of the computer to corporate clients. Work still has something, but the third Tungsten, as the third terminator, already very different from the first two. The authors, translation:

System GLOBALSTAR - to be launched in Russia!

Global system of mobile satellite communications (SPSS) enter into a new century with a cargo of defeats and victories. If in the beginning, having no real competition, even in the presence of certain shortcomings, they were uncontested by the end of the 90s success of cellular, trunking and other wireless communication systems have formed a competitive market. On the dramatic fate of one of SPSS - IRIDIUM readers can read the pages of our publication. Now is the time to elaborate on the other SPSS - Globalstar. Globalstar system is based on 48 low-orbiting spacecraft to orbit altitude 1414 km and an inclination of 52 degrees. Ideology of the Globalstar system is based on the principles of cellular organization. Communication with mobile subscribers are using CDMA-technology. Major equipment and system architecture developed by Loral Space & Communications and Qualcomm. Globalstar system uses spaced lines when the subscriber is simultaneously "sees" from 1 to 3 satellites. According to this index Globalstar differs significantly from the system Iridium - where the structure of the space segment has been optimized for single coverage areas. With regard to high-latitude regions (above 72 °) and waters the world's oceans, they are not served by the Globalstar system. Communication there is in principle possible, but the system does not ensure its continuity. Satellite System for Mobile Communications Globalstar low-Earth orbit belongs to a class of systems (satellite, located at an altitude of about 1000 km above Earth's surface). Such systems have certain advantages over satellite systems in geostationary orbit, for example, Inmarsat (at a distance of 35000 km). User terminals is substantially less in weight and size and have comparable cellular telephone networks. Radio spectrum is used efficiently due to repeated use of radio frequency bands. Signal delay in the channel is much less, because orbital height is ten times lower. About the beginning of operation the Globalstar system was officially announced on October 11, 1999 at the Geneva show-Telecom-99. Today around the world in service are 16 ground stations pairing. There is complete debugging of the software, algorithms, control and communications satellites, as well as equipment, providing a link as a space segment, and with terrestrial public networks. In Russia, this system provides services company Globalstar, which started its commercial operation on Aug. 2, 2000 unfolded part of the system covers more than 60% of the bond surface of the Earth (which will serve the system Globalstar). The latter were put into operation the station in China, Australia and Venezuela. Interestingly, in Russia, the system was first officially used at the end of March 2000 to transfer the results of presidential elections in Russia from remote areas of Chechnya! Phones QUALCOMM, and there were more than 20 pieces., Did not disappoint, and the president was elected in the most democratic way. In February 2000, completed the formation of the satellite constellation. In addition to 48 satellites in orbit four backup device. Globalstar plans to guide the company in a quarter in 2001 to put into operation all the 38 stations of conjugation of the first stage, which will provide coverage of the surface of the Earth in accordance with the project, and satellite services will be available in 120 countries. Little about the history of the project. After the failure of the carrier rocket Zenit (loss of 12 satellites in an accident rocket Zenit, manufacturer - Dnepropetrovsk NGO "South"), the company Globalstar has refused to cooperate with the Ukrainian supplier of missiles. For launching satellites, it was decided to restrict the use of American missile DELTA II, Boeing and the Russian Soyuz. Launch vehicle Soyuz while in orbit 4 communications satellite, Globalstar. Reliable alliance is beyond doubt, but wanted to create an additional module, which was supposed to solve two problems. Firstly, it was on it before the withdrawal of the main orbit of 1420 km should be placed 4 communications satellite, Globalstar. Secondly, after the completion of the third stage of this Union shall transfer module installed on it satellites orbit 240 km to an intermediate orbit of 920 km. Development of such a module, called IKAR, performed consortium Starsem. It was formed in 1996.with the participation of Russian and European manufacturers: Arianespace (15%), Aerospatial of France (35%), Russian Space Agency (25%) and the Central Bureau of Samara Space (TsSKB) "Progress" (25%). IKAR was implemented on the platform of the Russian satellite, comet, space designed for aerial photography. Instead of full-time on-board equipment on it posted design with four Globalstar satellites and control system. After separation from IKARa each of Globalstar satellites on their own moves to the main orbit of 1420 km. American experts believe IKAR and its management system more flexible and versatile than a system based on the missile launch DELTA. First start of the project UNION Globalstar preceded not only the throes of creation when creating a module IKAR. On the way scientists and engineers were again politics. The first launch since November 1998. postponed several times due to the U.S. State Department ban on the transfer of high technology. But on Jan. 26, 1999 Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov and the Ambassador of Kazakhstan signed an agreement under which Russia and Kazakhstan pledged to protect the U.S. technological secrets to transfer to other countries. How is communication. Globalstar system is designed so that the subscriber is within range of 1 to 3 satellites. Organization to operate simultaneously in several satellites gives a gain in quality of reception and transmission and the smooth transition of the signal from satellite to satellite. Next, arrange the connections with the nearest ground station interface that provides access to terrestrial channels. If you need to talk to someone of Globalstar, a terrestrial communication channels will make a connection with a gateway station that region, which is currently called you a subscriber. And then the connection is established through one of the satellites fly over to your colleague. Time a connection is on average 5 seconds. with the probability of loss of calls in busy hours of 2%. If we compare this solution with inter-satellite communications, used in the Iridium, it is not so gracefully, but much cheaper. Onboard equipment easier, because performs only the function of relaying the signal to the nearest ground station. A comparison of Iridium and Globalstar, recalled that the first covers 100% of the earth's surface. But for communication should have been complied with several conditions. Globalstar as we have already noted, does not provide full coverage. But the advantages of this are generally more simple system, relatively low tariffs and prices for the equipment. It should be noted, and high-quality voice services provided by technology, CDMA. What services system is Globalstar? In addition to wireless telephone services - mobile and stationary, the user is available to send and receive short messages, global roaming, call the emergency services, voice mail. Additional types of services provided by Globalstar, include: call forwarding, call waiting, call hold, call barring, caller ID, CLIR, call trehnapravlenny. Data transmission (fax, E-mail and Internet) in April this year has been demonstrated in Rio de Janeiro and will be put into commercial operation by early 2001 is another trump card Globalstar, a global positioning service (GPS). Given that the U.S. government from May 1 this year lifted restrictions on the positioning accuracy, its attractiveness for a wide range of subscribers increases. But at that time in Russia, everything depends on local circumstances. Legal aspects of positioning finally worked out. Roaming. Globalstar system will provide a link with the subscribers of existing telecommunications systems in general use, and cellular systems. Signed a treaty on international roaming between all service providers Globalstar. Most operators have in their countries, the agreement with the companies - owners of public networks. To provide roaming in the networks of GSM have contracts with operators. So in the UK Globalstar signed a contract with Vodafon UK - the network operator GSM. In this case, the subscriber Vodafon UK remained the number. Global roaming in June 2000, available in North and South America, as well as in Europe. What kind of portable subscriber terminals are sold? Note that all the devices, calledmulti-mode - ie allow you to work as a system Globalstar, and in the mode of one of the cellular standards. In Europe, will be offered to commercial use predominantly terminals Ericsson (R290) and Telit (SAT 550), which allow automatic roaming with cellular networks GSM-900. In addition to the two-mode, manufactured by QUALCOMM three-mode user terminals (GSP 1600). This terminal provides the ability to work across a satellite mode, technically supports roaming in the networks of standards for AMPS and CDMA. The main parameters of the terminal European manufacturers are listed in Table 1.

Table 1

Options / Terminals Ericsson R290 Telit SAT 550
Dimensions (mm) 162h62h39 220h65h45
Weight (g) 350 450
Opening hours of standby time with standard battery (h), (Globalstar / GSM) 6 / 75 8 / 83
Opening hours of talk time with standard battery (h), (Globalstar / GSM) 1.5 / 5 1.6 / 3.9
Data / Fax Yes No
Another important feature of portable terminals. The radiation power of the tubes corresponds to the most stringent international health standards and do not exceed the power levels adopted in the standards of the cellular networks. Who today can be considered a potential buyer of services Globalstar? This is especially the subscribers of other satellite communication systems. For them, the new system is cheaper and much easier to use. For example, the cost per minute talks with the use of a satellite in stationary orbit (the system Inmarsat) is $ 3 per weight of such equipment of about 1.5 kg, and the need to pre-deploy equipment and the antenna, respectively. Certain segment of the business are also carrying out flights in a long time. For them, a satellite phone, working on board the aircraft, will provide constant communication with business partners. No doubt about the need for satellite communications in maritime transport, the current in the coastal akvatoriyah1. An important segment of the industry will be the exploration and mining operations, both on land and at sea. In addition, based on the Globalstar system can be set up various systems of control over freight over long distances, a similar system OmniTracs. In assessing the vertical markets also define the category of mobile users who want to be sure that the connection will be given the time and everywhere, ie complete with a cheap cellular phone. Of course, fixed telephones (corporate and public phones) will be needed in areas where cellular or that another link is not available. On satellite payphones in the Globalstar also assign some hope. We can assume that they will be installed in small villages located in remote areas or even along the highways. The composition of the payphone includes an antenna (mounted on the open space), the interface block and directly pay phone, a prototype of which served as the standard pay phones on the basis of plastic cards. There are different options for feeding a payphone: network, battery or solar battery. For manufacturing payphone sets Globalstar signed an agreement with Schlumberger, which accounts for about 30% of public telephones installed throughout the world. Information for future subscribers. The collapse of Iridium will be a good lesson for marketers Globalstar. Prices for vehicles are in the range 1000 - 1500 dollars, the U.S. minute call costs 1.70 dollars in Asia and South America, less than 1.0 dollars expected leasing of equipment, various plans for prepaid. On the proposal of Motorola, Globalstar has prepared a program to support users of Iridium, which is to provide price discounts at the conclusion of the contract.Thus, all former subscribers to Iridium, which appeared without context from the termination of the system will be proposed on concessional terms to become a subscriber of the Globalstar system and continue to use the services of satellite communications. At what cost to subscribers in Russia to connect to the system and its ekspluatatsiya2? Thus, the initial connection. You will pay: telephone (eg, type TELIT SAT 550 - 1200 dollars), connected to the system ($ 180) a prepayment for traffic (for example, with international access - 216 dollars). Total: 1600 USD Monthly expenses consist of monthly subscription fees (eg, tariff "priority" - $ 48) and payment of traffic. We give some prices for 1 min.: Outgoing to the subscriber in any area of ​​the system - 1.8 dollars, an incoming call from the system of Globalstar - 1.2 dollars for those who remember the prices of the first stage deployment of cellular services in Moscow, listed prices do not seem excessive. To assess the possible traffic, assume that the total time of the negotiations during the month was 200 minutes (for example, 120 minutes of outgoing and incoming 80 minutes). In this case, the fee negotiations will be about $ 220 So, with the subscription fee monthly expenses amount to about $ 270 Naturally, international calls, roaming and additional services will require a certain costs, but pay you for the link at any time and anywhere. Today, subscribers of the system are more than 40000 people worldwide. Of those registered in Russia, about 500 subscribers. Now, marketers are hoping to attract customers not only voice communication but also a wider range of services, focusing on different applications. Control systems and telemetry-based data transmission channel Globalstar can find the consumer. In addition, a key area of ​​interest Globalstar announced market fixed wireless services in sparsely populated regions. " Apparently, for the successful future of this system is an extremely important factor will be the data service. It is appropriate to recall that Iridium could not really offer this service to subscribers. By itself, the rate of 9.6 kbps, planted in the development of Globalstar, by today's standards and not high. However, this rate is constant and independent of external conditions. To use e-mail and fax it enough. Some pro and contra appear when subscribers will learn how to be charged this service. In the next five years, experts estimate the global market for satellite communications in the 1 million subscribers (for Russia is 10.8 thousand). Technical requirements for SPSS can be defined quite succinctly - a single telephone number, voice quality and the ability to transfer data to a limited extent. Competition in the telecommunications industry becomes tougher. Will the Globalstar system to find loyal customers, depends on the flexibility of tariffs and services offered. Will the regional operating companies to decide not so much technical as economic challenges - and succeed where the Iridium fiasco? From coverage of large areas of fall sea areas, due to the location of the gateway station. The authors, translation:

New Pocket PC n10: Dell'u responsible, Acer

Debuting on the PDA market, Dell has immediately won a huge following. How? Simply "pot-bellied newbie" Axim X5 Basic, finally became one of the earliest available for most popular Pocket PC-based Pocket PC. This handheld, combined the most necessary for the active user - namely, a powerful new processor (while at the level of moral ustareshego PDA-hi-end'a) and two expansion slots - all of the available money. The success of the new items could not remain without attention of competitors, and almost all manufacturers have included in their roadmap, cheap and functional models. Today in our test lab came a sort of "response Dell" from Acer with a modest mark n10. So, we proceed to study it. The model presented here is about to appear on the shelves of local shops and the situation is such that the two budget PDA - Dell Axim X5 and Acer n10 enter into fierce competition for consumer's pocket. Which of them will win? After all, both devices will act in the same price category, since they have very similar characteristics. In this capitalist competition will already take into account not only the processor speed and RAM size, but also more subtle features such as screen brightness, weight, functionality, and just the look of models.

Phones, which we choose

Phones, which we choose
Cell phone appeared in our lives, just like any other high-tech product, rather quickly. Just as before the VCR, camcorder or computer, he gradually mastered the progressive minds of the public and became an attractive and prestigious technical means available to most Russians only in dreams. If you recall the price of the first contracts (telephone, down payment and tariffs, etc.), many of them seem implausible - now that money can buy, if not new, it is quite a decent used car. However, over time, and this helped a lot of crisis in August 1998., A cellular telephone (PT) has become available not only for organizations, but also for individuals. Today, the accessibility and availability of our families can be compared with the VCR or computer. Do not have to be an analyst to confidently predict future CT - this kind of devices in the near future will be for many a natural and indispensable companion. The need for mobile communications in most regions of Russia can be implemented within days - it is enough to conclude a contract with the mobile operator to provide a specific group of services and there to buy a cell phone. However, selecting a cell phone even for people with higher technical education is not a simple matter. And it's not his particular technical complexity or diversity of models (for standard GSM-900/1800 them over 50). It is difficult to imagine that when selecting a color TV you first asked to choose to use standard (SECAM, PAL or NTSC), and then to television itself. This absurd situation has arisen in the apparent connivance of the technical and irresponsible policy of the state, led to the consumer on his own responsibility must determine what standard is used in cellular communications, and with it the company - operator. In fairness, we note that most modern TVs allow you to view the program in several standards. Over time, cell phones should be available, also operating in several standards (the company Ericsson announced the work being done in this direction). K 2002. supposed to create devices based on the standards of third generation mobile communications to unify all of the region. In this article we assume that an operator (standard for cellular communication), the reader proceeded directly to the choice of cell phone (CT). However, today it's not as easy as it might seem at first glance. For example, when choosing a computer, monitor or printer can help you publish in various journals. They fundamentally and technically literate considered novelties, their parameters and characteristics. With regard to cell phones, despite the growing interest of readers, unfortunately, are not so many books and articles that allow clear and evaluate a particular model and its consumer quality. Must be noted that publication, living on income from advertising, not taking responsibility, and the reader or do not know about the shortcomings of a particular model, or critical information will be embedded in a diplomatically "wrapper" that not once have agreed with the manufacturer or distributor specific device. And even more unlikely that the description of the device had a list of features and services, which it does not. Many publications are written by poets rather than professionals - judge for yourself: "This is the first phone .....which not only Russified menu, and make the Russian language a priority. "- would be better off this wonderful phone Russified author of the text," In today's cell phones, a GSM user identity, together with his phone number hidden inside the SIM-card ... "- but the personality author of the text can not hide; measurements showed a rigid dependence of the capacitance standard battery of current consumption. " - A discovery that could shake the foundations of electrical engineering, developers not only agreed to his response to a standard phone, but have taken measures to compensate for the failure ... "- by what means they align their response would have been interesting to learn not only how many readers otolaryngologist;. . of controlling a basement, where mobile communications was absent, NOKIA confidently contacted ... "- a fundamental term" controlling basement, first introduced in the technical literature by the authors. It seems that the presence of instrumentation authors generally know nothing; "Original acoustic design, the phone ... "- yet another new term," thanks to the work of designers apparatus pleased to take over ... "- no comment," a slightly rounded shape body easily falls not only in women but also children's pen - you might think that the main problem is the choice of cell phone for their child. After reading the "analytic" material containing such revelations, and all of the above fragments were taken not from the humor magazine, and publications that claim to the role of a competent adviser, the reader is unlikely to be able to choose the unit responsible his or her abilities and desires. So the problem of selecting the type of ST exists. What does the manufacturer, and that a particular subscriber, what to choose and why? "Let's try together with the reader to understand what PTs are now sold and to whom?" And here is the first stop on such things as range . The range of the manufacturer PT conditionally may consist of the following classes (groups): a simple, affordable for beginners subscriber cost model for advanced users; multi-model business class, a model based on the most modern technology - luxury, model, designed to operate in difficult field conditions. Each class is designed for a specific group of buyers and has its own characteristics. When you create a lineup of developers as guided by the corporate client, and at the individual buyer, offering several options for performance optimization product, taking into account the specific parameters, such as duration of continuous operation, or weight, or the possibility of voice quality. To really sort out the product line, we consider the model number CT standard GSM-900/1800 the example of Siemens (shows the average price, including VAT). Model A35 - a simple device with the basic minimum set of features and services for the novice caller, the reasonable price ($ 100). S35i model - cost model for advanced users with the possibility of a mobile office at its base, a reasonable price ($ 150). Model S35i - multifunction machine for business ($ 250). Model SL45 - tiny phone "de luxe" with a maximum set of features ($ 500). Model M35 - a shock-resistant waterproof housing designed for those who lead an active lifestyle ($ 240). Features range of each company determine the presence in its composition of a particular class of devices, but the general approach and the desire to orient the product on a certain group of customers is obvious. renewed Models 1 - 2 times a year and the price is in a class of the new model is undoubtedly higher . The first natural step in the selection of CT is to determine the class of your cell mate. A reasonable balance of price and functionality for some, the greatest opportunities for others or something else will formulate specific requirements for cellular phone. To select a specific device will require knowledge of its technical characteristics. Since we are talking about mobile phones, in some cases, the foreground weight, size, duration of continuous battery life. Ease of use (display size, image quality, ergonomic keyboard) will also be of considerable importance.Choosing the CT, it should be noted that the cell phone offers you a choice of additional services (call forwarding, conferencing, etc.) in contrast to conventional wireline telephony, which is just beginning work in this direction. Thanks to the microprocessor, CT can also act as a calculator, notepad, calendar and even playing the CPU. In addition, many CT provide the ability to hot link to a laptop or handheld computer, allowing you to send / receive data and faxes. Note that the design of the device is essential for many, if not essential. But the question (the analysis of design of modern CT), we reserve the framework of this material. In order to determine your individual requirements acquiree CT in the presence of such a broad range of characteristics, parameters, functions and services we offer to allocate among these groups:
  • basic characteristics and parameters;
  • parameters of the display and keyboard;
  • security features;
  • functions and services supported by the operator;
  • memory function;
  • additional features;
  • configuration items.

Basic characteristics and parameters

Weight (city, usually with standard battery). Here is a little trick. Several companies give a lot of the little battery (Slim), whose capacity is lower than the standard, but the time of talk / standby provides for a standard. Dimensions (mm) (with standard battery) / Volume (cc).. Duration of talk time without recharging (min.). The duration of standby battery life (hours). Here we want to draw attention to a battery (standard or large) are given these values. In a number of brochures can be found very attractive values, but the fine print will be noted that this data for a large battery. Type of battery as standard / Capacity (mAh). Most modern batteries are equipped with ST-type Li-Ion (Li-Ion). They are lighter and at the same volume and mass have a greater capacity than previously used lower-cost Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH). Besides batteries, such as Li-Ion does not have "memory" effect, ie does not require full discharge before recharging, which reduces the time required for charging, and simplifies the charger. The latest achievement in this area are battery type Lithium-Polymer (Li-Pol), having at the same dimensions as the Li-Ion high capacity and lower weight. Charge Time (min.). Typically in the range 2 - 3 hours. Operating temperature range. If you intend to work with ST at low temperatures, one should bear in mind that the battery capacity while decreasing, ie, reduced operating time.

Display Options

Type. Current displays include the graphic type, ie can play both alphanumeric and graphical information, such as images that accompany a particular SMS-text messages. Some models, mostly to the 1999 release have alphanumeric displays, the possibilities are limited. If the display of the image type, its main consumer option should be considered - the resolution of which determines the number of points - pixels, forming a matrix. Naturally, the larger the display size and resolution of AxB (pixel), the clearer the information is reproduced. Today is dominated by monochrome displays. Color displays - until a rarity in CT. Following the model of Siemens S10, such exotics on the market did not appear. Some models provide dynamic change font sizes, depending on the amount of reproducible data. For many customers is essential illumination color. But today you can find PTs whose highlighting color changes according to the choice of its owner, or can be programmed for a certain color depending on the situation, for example, call a subscriber whose number is entered in the notebook into a specific group.

Keyboard Options

Redial the last number dialed by pressing a single button. This function creates a certain comfort when typing. The number of speed dials (the latter: incoming / outgoing / from the notebook). If before this feature was only CT Business Class now speed dial in models of consumer class - element binding. Locking the keypad from the menu.Very useful function in different situations. Mute button. Allows for the rapid increase in confidential dialogue. Availability of technology speed dial (like T9). Typing, for example, SMS messages, this technology allows faster set. Introducing the first characters, the user sees on the screen the word that the program extracts from the dictionary stored in memory ST. This will be the most probable word corresponding to a given set of first symbols. While the system speed dial worked for the Latin languages. Cyrillic support in the recruitment of SMS. To enter the Cyrillic alphabet in a notebook, and in the SMS-text messages, the company is the manufacturer must modify the software ST. At present, this possibility is not all vehicles.

Security features

PIN code - 4-8 digits - the identification number of the person intended to enter the network and activate your subscription. PIN2 code - provided by the operator and is used for special functions. PUK (PUK2) code - a personal unlock code, if the owner has forgotten the PIN (PIN2) code, or it incorrectly entered three times, with the help of the PUK code phone will be unlocked. Lock SIM card (access via PIN code) - if enabled, the PIN code must be entered each time the apparatus. Key lock - the ability to lock the keyboard hardware. Encoding of information - security techniques technologies GSM, designed to provide authentication, encryption, voice and data traffic. Basis kriptoarhitektury are four basic algorithms: A3, A8, A5.1/A5.2. The last two algorithms provide, respectively, "strong" and "weak" encryption. Blocking calls outgoing or incoming - eliminates work with your device a third person. Fixed set of numbers - the list of numbers given by the subscriber. Lock all the negotiations, except on the list (FDN). Useful feature, especially for dispersed subscribers. Availability of confidential numbers in memory (Closed user group - CUG) - access to these numbers is possible when you enter an additional password.

Functions and services supported by the operator

Short Message Service (SMS). The service is supported by the majority of operators are usually free service. Maximum number of alphanumeric characters in one message - 160. The latest models allow you to exchange messages and longer - up to 640 characters, but this feature does not support all operators. You can find out the time and date of receipt of the communication, it is also possible to determine the number and the name of the person who sent the message. Voice messaging system (voice mail - Voice mail). The service allows you to not lose a challenge if you can not receive and automatically sends it into a personal bank voice mail. Depending on class of service, number of posts 10 - 20, the maximum length of posts 20 - 30 sec. Can automatically reply to a voice message, and forward the message. This service is available for active service, "Forward." Support for WAP. In ST there are a number of technical limitations that prevent the use of standard, well-developed Internet technology. To overcome them was a family of new standards, united by a common name - the technology WAP. WAP - Wireless Application Protocol access to information on the Internet, for devices with limited screen size, small memory and low speed network access. The key elements of technology are the WAP-browser (Internet browsing program), WAP-gateway server and WAP-content (www.wapforum.com). WAP protocol provides access from mobile phones to the WEB-pages, filed with the language of WML. The latest version of WAP - v.2.1. What opportunities will the subscriber, including cellular phones, supports WAP? First, the news service (international, national, regional). Further, the wireless office - look up subscriber business information on the server of the company, zaviziruet necessary documents, etc. Banking applications - the state accounts, pay bills, transfer money, all these operations a subscriber performs in the WAP-server of the bank. Supports SIM Application Tool Kit (STK) - Technology-based resource short message service (SMS), a component of standard GSM.Allows holders of mobile phones to make transactions in electronic commerce systems. Personal information stored on SIM-card user, is used in security systems and identification. Compared with the WAP STK is more reliable for banking services. Provides the greatest opportunity STK Class 3. Data transfer. In addition to accessing the Internet and e-mail directly from the CT, you can connect the laptop to the phone or PDA. Data exchange rate (Kbps). At present, the GSM provides exchange rate 9.6 or 14.4 Kbps. The latter value is not supported by all operators. For the majority of CT is regulated by the rate of 9.6 kbps. Sending and receiving faxes. In addition to direct data CT allows to work with fax messages. Usually used for this notebook or Pocket PC. Support for conference calls (1 +5), (MTPY). This service allows you to organize a teleconference mode - you can simultaneously connect with a group of up to 5 people, and to arrange a meeting. Two numbers on one phone (ALS). This service allows subscribers to enter into a contract with the operator, for the acquisition of two telephone numbers. One of them you can tell co-workers, other - relatives. Calls made to both numbers, and come to a PT. Determination of caller ID, called AON, (CLIP). This service is only available for digital networks. CLIR caller (CLIR). The service allows subscribers to block certain of its facilities waiting / call hold (pending and waiting for the call). This mode allows you during a conversation with the caller to call another subscriber or to answer an incoming call again, talking alternately to two subscribers. Call Forwarding. Possible types of call forwarding: all calls, all calls when the line is busy, all calls when no answer, all calls when the phone is switched off or out of radio coverage. Call Barring (Call Barring) is a package of services: a ban on all incoming and outgoing calls, a ban on outgoing international calls; ban on entering, a ban except for calls within the network. Coding of speech. Modern devices support a mode - a full-size speech coding (EFR - Enhanced Full Rate). Naturally, the quality of the reproduced speech is increased, but the trouble is that in Russia, not all operators support this mode.

Memory Functions

Reference numbers and names (Phone book). Usually numbers are stored in the SIM-card. In modern CT provides additional memory directly into the unit. For example, in a model of Nokia 8850 in memory store 250 numbers and the same number on SIM-card. Memory organization in groups. In some models may be grouped numbers, for example, business partners and relatives. Find phone numbers in the phonebook the phone. Conveniently, if the search is possible both by name and by number. Remembering the past to a number (dialed / incoming / missed). The maximum length of a notebook name / number. This is important if the subscriber uses an additional code for network access another operator. Check free memory cells. Feature allows you to assess the availability of affordable recording numbers in a notebook. Ability to complete cleaning of the phone book. A useful feature for emergency situations, and for updating the phone book.

Additional features

The presence of the recorder to record the current information / recording time (sec). Many models of business-class voice recorder has a function and make it possible to record a fragment of the talks or write your comment. Typically, the recording time of 50 - 100 sec. Several models allow you to set the recording quality. Naturally, the higher the quality, the smaller the interval of recording time. Opportunity to record a telephone conversation (work in voice recorder mode) / Record Time (sec). It is worth to note that not every model has a voice recorder function, allows you to save a fragment of telephone conversations. The ability to play recordings from the recorder during a conversation. Useful feature allows your companion to listen to the recording, made in advance. The possibility of transferring the recorded comments on the PC. This feature allows you to convert the recorded conversation in a form understandable to the PC, for example, sound file format (. Wav).When connecting to PT and PC, special software will provide the transmission of a file (call) in the PC memory. The built-in browser. Viewer web pages - the browser is part of the software (SW) ST. Usually this is the WAP-browser. However, there are browsers that lets you view both WAP-pages and standard HTML pages. For example, the model Benefon Q, browser MS Mobile Explorer, supports both protocols. The built-in mail client. For receiving / sending e-mail software is included in the appropriate program. Here, the manufacturer may specify the type of supported protocol - POP3 (most common), or IMAP4 - a perspective. Note that the e-mail reception is possible and based on short message service (SMS). The presence of shakes in a standard configuration. Vibrate or silent call allows in some situations, to disable call your ST. If you receive a ringing tone instead of the usual call to subscribers feel subtle vibrations ST. The presence of the organizer - usually daily, which is using the alarm function notifies you of the upcoming meeting. Ability to synchronize Address Book / Organizer with PC software (like MS Outlook) - This function is useful for those who actively use computer equipment to conduct business. A number of modern CT with organizer, for example, Benefon Q, do not allow to sync with standard software, so you have this procedure done manually. The presence of a calculator, alarm clock, games - these functions do not require comment. Indication of date and the current time - a calendar and clock undoubtedly useful. Indication of time received calls: received / missed. Ability to dial - this function is known to all holders of the modern digital phones. Can be programmed to redial the interval from one minute to tens of minutes. The same service can offer operators, but it involves additional cost. Set (activation) of the votes (the number of rooms). Speech recognition technology to automate the recruitment process. Pre-enough "to train" your phone by saying the name of the subscriber, such as Hamlet, which is written into memory. This is the name you assign a specific number. In what follows by saying a command like "set" and the name of Hamlet - the phone will automatically dial the given number. Possible number of rooms, depending on the type of CT - 5 to 20. Voice control menu (the number of teams). Similarly, a set of numbers, can be suppressed voice command, enter a specific Menu ST. If we remember that the menu system is a conventional device 4 - 5 tier, and each level of 4 - 6 points, saving time in the presence of voice control is quite significant. Creating a custom menu (User Profile). This possibility will simplify access to the functions menu, which you use most often. Function Help (HELP). Useful especially when dealing with CT for the first time, as can quickly tell the sequence of actions to perform the requested command. Audible alarm call duration. This feature allows a subscriber to program the timer, which during the conversation will be with a certain interval, for example, 30 seconds. beep. For the budget conscious users, this function is clearly worthless. Audible alarms for low battery. Standard function, usually accompanied by the appearance of the corresponding icon on the screen. Notifies the discharge at the most inopportune moment. Depending on the model and manufacturer, time to turn off is 5 - 20 minutes. Expenditure control. There may be a number of options: Counter duration of the last call and total call counter, check the value of a call and check the remaining credit (Translation of conversation for money). To recalculate the money necessary first program cost per minute of conversation in accordance with the chosen tariff plan. Adjusting the speaker volume / tone. Could be done directly with the key (button), and from the menu. Number of ringtones / number of additional signals. ... Ability to create your own ringtones. Can be programmed as a favorite tune, or enter a melody previously recorded on a computer or found on the Internet. Handsfree (Speakerphone).This feature allows you without leaving your desk to chat with a friend, or listen to a conversation in a quiet room, put the phone on the table. Ability to automatically answer the call (avtopodnyatie). This feature allows you to start a conversation without clicking on the "Reply" button. Automatic activation is useful when a call is received by the subscriber, sitting behind the wheel of a car. The built-in MP3 player. Convenient for fans of sound. Allows you to pre-load a few tunes and if you want to listen to them.

Configuration items

Type of SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module). SIM card - the constructive, which is integrated circuit. In memory chips included data that define an individual code ownership ST. In the absence of SIM cards, the phone does not work. In addition, the SIM-card can be used to organize the notebook user. In today's SIM cards (such as Plug-in, miniature, embedded in the body) can store up to 250 entries (phone numbers). In vehicles, produced before, use the SIM card type Standart, performs a similar function, but has great size and inserted into the body. The built-in fax modem. The built-in so-called GSM-modem allows the use of CT for the transmit / receive data and faxes. This device differs from conventional fax modems, as it works wirelessly in the network GSM. GSM-modem allows you to work both directly with the data and combine CT with a laptop or handheld computer, to organize a mobile office for receiving / sending E-mail, faxes, and receive data from the Internet. Ability to connect to a PC through the card PC card / RS-232C. For this purpose, ST connector shall be provided, attached to a special cable with an appropriate output, such as a laptop. Typically, such a cable is not supplied with CT, but is included in the accessory kit, produced by the manufacturer. Until now, the unification of connectors and cables, by analogy with laptops in the industry CT did not happen and the search for the desired cable or order take some inconveniences. Therefore, if you intend to organize a mobile office, should I buy the cable at once. Infrared interface IrDA. Used for wireless communications ST and PC, usually a laptop or Pocket PC. Transceiver infrared provide high speed data exchange (up to 4 Mbps). However, the range of this interface is limited (up to 1 m). In addition, the IR receivers are sensitive to the direction of signal arrival - departure no more than 30?. Recall infrared radiation conditions require "line of sight." Software. It can either be included or optional. For example, the bundle model Ericsson R320s is a CD. It finds the subscriber: infrared drivers for Win95/98, a software package Ericsson Data Communication Suite for Win95/98, SMS and phone book phone software tasks the phone directly from the PC. In addition, this CD is an electronic version of the manual format. Pdf. Ibid - Demonstration and training program, illustrating the operation of the proposed software. Ability to connect the headphones / external microphone. Possibility to connect the car kit HandsFree. This feature is required if you have a habit of not disable CT while driving. Antenna type: fixed / telescopic / exchangeable. The most widespread fixed antenna. It comes in two types: interior and exterior. Reception quality in both cases does not depend on the type of antenna. For example, recent models from Nokia has an internal antenna. Telescoping antenna, used in some models, allows in some cases to optimize the output stage, improving the transmission in the area uncertain of the apparatus. Removable antenna involves the ability to connect additional antenna, whose parameters improve the functioning of ST in the area of ​​uncertain reception. In some devices, for example, Benefon "DRAGON" Included are two antennas, the subscriber may set depending on the quality of coverage, in which it is located. Ability to connect an external antenna.If you want to use CT in uncertain reception area, to increase the stability of it is expedient to choose the model that has extra high slot. You can connect an external antenna. The authors, translation:

HP iPAQ H2210 and Windows Mobile 2003: A very sweet couple

Due to numerous requests to present to your attention a more detailed overview of the new machines from HP - the long-awaited iPAQ h2210. Preview of the article published on our website earlier this week, was devoted mainly to the appearance and ergonomics of the model. Now let's talk about its inner content. The intrigue is that this PDA has become one of the first equipped with the new operating system Windows Mobile 2003.
HP iPAQ H2210 and Windows Mobile 2003: A very sweet couple
In order not to send readers fully to the previous review, some repeated. Thus, H2210 is executed in silver casing, the front part of which - a plastic, and the back - a metal. Equipped with excellent color transflective display with support for 65000 colors diagonal of 3.5 inches. Special interest is the uniformity of illumination and sensitivity. Touch stylus recognize immediately and accurately. On the case there is no such common control as JogDial button and start the recorder. Shortcuts Application - less than the previous model H1900 and quite strongly recessed into the body: "responsive", but a little zhestkovatye. H2210 carries a 32 MB ROM, of which 3.84 MB set aside for non-volatile storage of user data. Here you can create archives of databases from PIM-applications and store important files. Here is a program of Nevo, with which the CCP can make a universal remote control home appliances. Memory device is 64 MB, of which 57.11 MB available to the user. The heart of the handheld processor is Intel XScale Cotulla PXA255 clocked at 400 MHz. Say that the machine has turned brisk - to say nothing! Speed ​​is visible, as they say, to the naked eye. Using the menu, scrolling, launching of programs - everything just flies:) It is noteworthy that also dramatically increased the speed sync and share files with your desktop computer. Documented all testified program to test the Pocket PC SPB Benchmark from the Russian company SPB Software House. Those who are interested in numbers, we offer a look here. At the request of Microsoft, in Windows Mobile 2003 supports all the features of the new processor PXA255, it is possible to expect that work with applications that are optimized for this platform will be more comfortable than before. It remains to wait for the release. And now, more to the point. Talk about "fichah" PDA.

Features

Siemens SL45 - 3 in 1

Siemens SL45 - 3 in 1
So what-what, and the choice of the mobile market boasts more than any other. Today it presents a variety of different models of different manufacturers is that "omobilit" can a man with almost any taste, hearing and thick koshelka - be he the most inveterate student. Naturally, with such a diversity of supply in the market highlighted the model for the representatives of quite different backgrounds with very different levels of income - from the "youth" Nokia 3310 with changeable skins veselenky rastsvetochek to respectable smartphone that just 3D-accelerator cards are not integrated. However, the main function of the handset is still an opportunity to make and receive calls - it is still born a telephone, and not a hybrid computer, voice recorder and intellectual coffeemakers. I do not accidentally distracted by verbiage and came to the conclusion that a mobile phone - is primarily a phone. Although considered in this material model, it has all the prerequisites to get into the category of "smartphones", she, like no other combines all the features of the phone with a wide range of additional services, while remaining exactly convenient phone. Thus, Siemens SL45. Specification of the device described many times in the web - for example here. The new machine represents one of the latest models of this company in the mobile market of reputation has the 25th series, and well-established today with the popular series 35. It would seem, to do something more enjoyable than the M35 (for youth) or C35 (for all others) are difficult, but the company's engineers stiffened, and gave SL45, unwittingly making parallels with the German car the same, the letters SL to the body which are close to numbers 600. From the narration, talking about what can be seen at once - the phone is surprisingly beautiful. Despite the very compact size (105h46h17 mm), the new machine has a sufficiently large screen and very comfortable in the hand. At the same time - almost weightless - 1988 design is executed with an emphasis on the classics, no association with the soap box, or vice versa, with the brick does not cause - but the "classic": not devoid of shades of "modernity": that in support of the original silver color, raised buttons and amber-orange backlit display. Such a course designer is justified - in the hand of a businessman phone looks expensive and harmoniously, especially being "dressed" in the skin, but the youth does not look like a policeman in the disco. Navigating the menu is traditional for Siemens is clear and simple - the more so because under review copy was Russified. More user-friendly menus boast except that devices from Nokia, though, in my opinion, all a matter of habit. The menu is so convenient that the use of virtually all functions of the apparatus can be immediately took him in hand - everything is very structured, it is intuitively clear and simple. Again: advanced menu system promotes "adult" screen size - most of the functions (incoming call, SMS, etc.) nicely animated, that in general it may be noted phrase "user friendly" - a phenomenon important and necessary. Mobile phone - a very personal thing and it is better to rid yourself of unnecessary negative emotions (what occurs after use, say, Motorola), for which, incidentally, as my grandmother used to say, "money Ploce. Navigation through the menu via the four-button-joystick and two auxiliary buttons. Stiffness clicking on the keyboard is optimal - just enough to not call someone by accident, when the phone is in the jeans pocket. However, if you have a very tight jeans, is provided to lock the keypad from accidental clicks. All manipulations with the keyboard sounded muted clicks of confirming that you really clicked, and you do not seem. Naturally, there is a system of predictive text input SMS-messages T9, which traditionally does not support the Russian language. Sound and reception quality on a scale we can safely estimate of 5. External antenna, allowing an average (on the passport and in comparison with competitors) power apparatus confidently held network, showing the field strength of about 75%, where some competing model saw the signal as 30 percent.Sound and dynamics, and when using a headset, hands-free clear and loud - really, when you use dynamic "effect of the bucket," ie, an echo is present. Naturally, the apparatus of a rich selection of tunes - their 42, not counting the fact that you can record your own on the flash card. Tunes very loud, vibration can be duplicated - in a word, you can only miss a call on purpose.
Siemens SL45 - 3 in 1
All of the above concerns precisely those functions that allow you to talk about the unit as a good, well-made and thoughtful phone - however, these functions are not limited to SL45. The main difference between this unit from the mass of cell phones - a built-in MP3-player. To store the music to the phone includes support for flash memory cards standard MMC (MultiMediaCard). By default, comes 32 Mbaytny option, but theoretically nothing prevents the use of higher-capacity cards. The player itself is implemented is quite simple - there are all the standard features needed to play files standards WMA and MP3. Tags are read correctly, but the maximum bit rate, which may play a file is 128 kbit / s - which, incidentally, is a normal quality for portable devices. Play is possible via the supplied with a telephone headset that also allows voice control of phone. Playback controls for the standard: among the available options, shuffle, repeat, next / last track, play, stop, pause. For the convenience of the buttons to switch between tracks made on the side of the phone - running them easy to find by touch switch track or start / stop the music. Time with the track displays a ruler bar, which is painted as playing a file. Generally speaking, the device is advertised as a "phone-player", but to me it seemed all the same phone - the same player is just what the Americans call features, that is more nimble nice lotion. It would be logical to assume the existence of a digital voice recorder - he was on the phone is taking place. Quality voice recording sufficient, however, compared with professional specialized devices a few plays through the microphone. Output can be recorded messages on a schedule - a sort of convenient "reminder." The thought occurred - recorded - put the time to recall - was a reminder. You can record messages of up to 20 minutes, and their number is limited only by the capacity flash cards. The scheme, to be honest, comfortable - but as a rule, similar features enjoyed by people with a unique temperament, characterized by thoroughness and scrupulousness. Standard for the latest Siemens, the machine is built modem with data transmission at speeds up to 14400 baud. With the PC phone can be paired, not when the children say, as non-contact - via the infrared port and through the lace. And then it was discovered an unfortunate misunderstanding, which is not to mention impossible. The fact that the device has extensive functions as an organizer, for example, comes with the phone software is provided with a diary sync Outlook, etc. In the end, the phone regularly want to download music - but this is only possible by an archaic cable . "By air, that is, through the infrared port, can not do this - the software that came with the device, do not care that the infrared port available and the system is, in principle, sees the phone as a device. Just when you install among the ports, which connected the device, you can choose either COM1, or ... correctly, COM2. In connection with this - you're doomed, the poor user to carry around everywhere lace, or use the phone as the organizer can be only at home or only at work, as well as change the music on a flash card. Infra same port can only be used when connecting the device as an external modem. But here, too wrong - Windows 2000 nefunktsionalen this modem, as a phenomenon. Well, no drivers, just to Siemens for W2K, and the standard "modem 14400" working with an error that is not working at all. Agree, it would be foolish to move from Win 2000 to 98 just to be able to use the built-in SL45 modem via infrared.Thus, I can state that the infrared port in this device - no more than an extra payment of money the user, a defect of the company and the only thing in this phone is not thought to shine. To summarize, we note that Siemens SL45 - excellent modern phone that will please user almost everywhere. The only nuance, because of which I have not rushed to buy it right away - its price. At present it is about 500-odd dollars, frankly, a little expensive. But, with volume shipments (ie, through a couple of months) the price, according to representatives of the Russian office of the company, will fall significantly. If by "substantially" means at least $ 300 at retail, the phone will become a very coveted purchase. And if the situation with the infrared port to fix, then we can safely say that the hit took place. Sources, Materials:

Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620

Review of the PDA can be compared with a visit to the polyclinic. Thorough "washing stones" of the test is strongly reminiscent of the severe medical board. Therefore, an analysis of the new Pocket PC ASUS MyPal A620 has been decided to hold similar medical examinations. Well, that will go to the doctors?

Therapist

The package that came with the computer includes: cradle, made of transparent and black plastic, synthetic cover, AC adapter and a CD with drivers.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Cradle tiny and light - nothing more, but it fairly stable, the computer is inserted into it without any additional effort, and just as easily removed from it.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Case, though not leather, but made very carefully. In the front and back walls are sewn hard plastic insert that protects the well-screen computer from accidental damage. In addition, inside cover provides a pocket for memory cards or expansion compartment lid. Zip samozastegivayuschayasya that prevents accidental loss of the machine cover.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Externally, the patient looks pretty good: the young and athletic tightened - which has recently become very fashionable silver plastic case has a thickness of 12,5 mm. Dimensions and weight of a computer too small: the closest in size and weight of the analogues are Mitac Mio 338, Rover PC P3 +, and ViewSonic v35. However, the appearance and the interior of computers at such similar sizes differ quite strongly. The first thing that catches your eye, it's no scroll wheel: on the sides, there is only an IR port and special grooves for mounting of expansion and a stronger adhesion to the cradle. On the issue of lack of scroll wheel, the developers stated that since the computer is positioned as a budget model, then to reduce the cost of all cars from this structural element was dropped. Functions of the scroll wheel itself has very successfully made the navigation button joystick. And fans of electronic books to flip through pages can use a voice recorder button which is located in a rather unexpected place - right above the display. This solution has several advantages. Firstly, to voice recorder button is equally easy to reach, no matter what hand (left or right) you do not keep a computer would. Second, flip through pages by using this button is also very convenient to both the left and right hand.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Below the display are located: navigation joystick and combined in a pair of application buttons. Since all the buttons on a computer can be programmed to your liking, then shown on the icon button rather relative - it is rather a tribute to tradition.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Directly under the buttons there are two lattice: left-hand grid false, but under the right speaker is placed on your computer. The presence of two lattices is due, most likely, an eye for the future: stereo speakers can only be welcome.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Headphone jack is located on the top panel (so that music can be, without taking the computer out of pocket), symmetrically with built-in headphones is the stylus holder, but directly between connector CFII, covered by a small plastic cap. Removable cover that allows you to connect to a computer different expansion modules format CF, such as jackets handheld iPAQ. It should be noted that at the moment is the smallest and lightest PDA with an expansion slot format CFII. Given the high popularity and a large number of peripheral devices to handheld computers carried out in this format, we can safely say that fans of this computer will be enough, because in this case, you can not throw the already existing expansion device.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
The only design drawback is the performance of CFII slot cover, she secured loosely enough. And if the slot is not occupied unit standard CFII, it just rattles.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
The bottom panel has a connector for a network adapter, so that, going somewhere, you can not take a cradle (if you just do not need to transfer data to a personal computer).
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
The stylus is made of molded plastic with a solid tip, without any frills, but quite easy to use.

Oculist

Display, in contrast to the previous model A600 with transflective backlit. Backlight is very bright, almost the same as the iPaq h3970. All products with a brand label, ASUS, whether it's motherboards, laptops or handheld computers necessarily differ if there were any proprietary technologies.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Are not left out and the A620, it is also full of their "widgets". One of them is the ability to adjust the brightness of the display of CPC 256 steps, none of the other PDAs such a smooth adjustment of brightness is not there.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Zero level corresponds to turn-off, and 255 - the maximum brightness of the display. When completely off illumination to perceive the image on the display is difficult. With the backlight off, you can work only outdoors in bright sunlight. However, even a minimum level of brightness is quite sufficient to operate at any ambient light. Optimal conditions for the perception of images - from the 50-th level of brightness.

Surgeon

Processor Intel Xscale PXA255, 400MHz
Memory RAM / ROM (MB) 64/32
Display 3,5 "TFT, 320x240, 64K, trancflektivny
I / O ports IrDA, USB 1.1
multimedia output headphone / speaker / microphone
removable media CFII
battery built-in Li-Ion battery, 1300mAch
Dimensions / weight 125x76.8x13.3 mm/141g
How easily can be seen next-generation processor PXA255 clocked at 400MHz. Of the stated 64MB SDRAM user accessible only 38.8 MB. ROM, as with most PDAs 32MB. Unlike the earlier model A600, a new computer user is deprived section of flash memory (My Flash Disk). To save the settings on your computer is a special program Smart Keeper, which saves the settings to a CF card or in automatic mode (when the battery is almost completely flat) or manually.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Lack of wireless communication modules is not a disadvantage, because the model is positioned as a budget (cheap) handheld computer, available for the masses. In total seven modes: Power Saving, Power Saving + Advanced Performance Enhancement (APE), Standard, Standard + APE, Turbo, Turbo + APE, and the automatic mode, in which the computer chooses one of the modes depending on the type of running applications. For reading text, listening to music or working with CPC as the organizer is quite suitable mode Power Saving. If you are working with large office documents or presentations, then select Mode Standard. If you love to watch movies or play on your computer, your choice or enhanced Turbo Turbo + APE. In addition to the computer's performance, the regimes are different, and battery life. If the Power Saving PC can work about 11 hours, the Turbo + APE only 5 hours, doing the same application.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
So, if your application does not require much CPU load, it is recommended to choose the mode with lower productivity, which corresponds to lower energy consumption. Those who choose may seem too difficult, may not particularly bother and restrict the automatic settings, which work quite well.

ECG and X-rays

To test the efficiency and physical condition of the patient's use popular benchmarks PDAs Virtual Office Benchmark 3.0, BMQ 0.31 and SPB Benchmark from the St. Petersburg company SPB Software House. For a more visual assessment can be reduced compared with a fairly powerful pocket PC Fujitsu-Siemens Pocket LOOX 600.
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
As seen from the A620 tests showed surprisingly good results, especially when working with video. Of the tests became clear function Advanced Performance Enhancement. It's kind of a button afterburner, which speeds up the memory and graphics. On integer calculations, the inclusion afterburner is not reflected. To test the suitability of your Pocket PC as a personal video player made videos to DivX format with different values ​​of the flow (from 300 to 1200Kb / s). Make a video with more than 1200Kb / s stream for viewing on screen with a diagonal of 3,5''no longer feasible. Two-minute preview of the movie "Invisible Man" is reproduced from memory with the maximum cache size (12MB) using Pocket MVP. At the end of roller measures the average number of frames per second and the percentage of skipped frames during playback. Red marked area where the video is played almost no loss (more than 2% of missed shots), yellow - the boundary region (3-4% missed shots).
Clinical examination: ASUS MyPal a620
It turned out that a computer capable of playing videos with very high flows in the 1200Kb / s - result for Pocket PC is fantastic. A very long time it was thought that the best possible video playback without loss of the PDA can not have a thread over 600Kb / s.. A620 successfully break those stereotypes. It is best suited for video mode turbo or turbo + APE. On the standard is better to watch video stream 400 Kb / s; standard + APE pulls 600Kb / s, and Power Saving + APE sufficient only to 300kb / s videos.

Physical Cabinet