In the model number of each manufacturer's mobile phones have multimedia solutions. And every year they are increasing, and their segmentation is becoming increasingly clear. Very few manufacturers try to combine everything at once. Some emphasize the musical component, while others are increasing photographic muscles. And on appearance models in ninety-five percent of cases can accurately determine its destiny. For example, musical models often have additional buttons that simplify the music management functions. In the case of handheld computers and communicators, unfortunately, the situation is less rosy. All WM-devices look very similar to each other, and to only one design can be very difficult to judge the orientation of the model. Positive trends are only just beginning to emerge. Take, for example, a recent HP iPAQ rx5730. When viewed on a PDA is immediately clear: we navigational model. New from Rover Computers, we are considering today, at first glance, too, looks like an ordinary WM-communicator, but the manufacturer has placed on the right sidewall of the three additional keys to control the player. It is a trifle, but a trifle pleasant and comfortable. Obviously, there is a tendency, and hence we should expect next, more ambitious steps. So, RoverPC S6 - firstly, the first communicator Rover Computers, running Windows Mobile 6 Professional. Secondly, this model has no direct competitors. And taking into account also an attractive design, we can assume good sale. Well, let's take a closer look closely.
Technical data
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 Professional
- Processor: Texas Instruments OMAP750, 200 MHz
- Memory: 64 MB RAM and 128 MB Flash ROM
- Screen: 2.8 "transflective TFT, 240x320 pixels, 262,000 colors
- Expandable memory: micro SD (card support up to 2 GB)
- Communication capabilities: GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz, GRPS (Class 10), Bluetooth (1.2), Wi-Fi (802.11b)
- Camera: 2.1 megapixels, autofocus
- Battery: Li-Pol, 1100 mAh, removable
- Audio: microphone, speaker, non-standard headset jack
- Dimensions and weight: 110 x 59 x 15.8 mm and 105 g
- Claimed battery life: 3-6 hours talk time and 100-150 hours standby time
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Somebody tried to treat RoverPC S6, as a direct descendant of the communicator RoverPC S5, which was in our hands last fall. However, in fact, common for these devices is not so much. So it is wise to talk about RoverPC S6 is not as follower of S5, as well as a new step of development line. RoverPC S6 is built on a more cost-effective platform and equipped with a camera with less resolution, as per other parameters novelty surpasses its predecessor. Appeared Wi-Fi module, but due to AF, and increased image quality with built-in camera. Instead of trying to please everybody at once (in the form of snap-on digital keyboard at S5), RoverPC S6 is focused on those important multimedia component. Taken as a basis platform from Lenovo (the original model is an index ET600). And the closest analogues can be identified i-mate JAMA, multimedia orientation which emphasizes the convenient plug-screen Today, as well as close in features HTC P3400 (Gene) and Voxtel W520.
Supplied
After opening the box, we were pleasantly surprised by the inner content is not too often manufacturers are pampered us like a complete set, judge for yourself, complete:
- Communicator RoverPC S6
- two lithium-ion battery 1100 mAh
- two stylus
- charger for your device
- Battery Charger
- wired stereo headset with a proprietary connector
- USB-cable
- cover
- micro SD card with 256 MB
- CD with accompanying software
- user guide
However, in the instructions to the unit said that the kit may vary.
Case of the kit - this is a classic leather case, as drop-down book, without any attachment. By itself, cover is fairly high quality, inner side of a soft suede exterior - leather, rose cover magnetic clasp, joints neatly and securely stitched.
But it is necessary to see the Rover S6 in a case, as the first positive impression disappears. Sam Communicator looks nice and compact and easily fits in your shirt pocket. Packaged as a complete cover, RoverPC S6 becomes unwieldy to talk without removing the device from the case, it is inconvenient, and can be worn except in the portfolio. In addition, the key acceptance and reject the call, hide dense rubber cover, click on them is almost impossible. There is also a problem of access to stylus, because of the snug cover, get to the stylus is difficult. However, here the developers have provided a special holder for the stylus, which eliminates this problem.
Interestingly, the original cover from Lenovo - very handy bag with waist attachment, it is strange that whenever a Russian analogue did not use such a decision. For comparison, we offer you a photo cover of Lenovo.
Other accessories, unlike the cover, made qualitatively. We should also mention battery charger. It is a small pouch in which to insert the battery, quite comfortable and a good solution, given that included two batteries.
The stylus is telescopic metal, with plastic ends. It is usual thickness, and pencil box located on the lower right corner of the case. In general, a pen handy, to find fault with its implementation at all desire can not.
Appearance
Externally RoverPC S6, as we have said, looks attractive. Criticism is only the location of controls, but more on that below. In the meantime, note the rectangular shape of the body, which has rounded corners, and a strict color scheme. Housing completely made of plastic, however, the plastic is very high quality, as well as assembly. All parts fit snugly together, there is no backlash. Design, as is known, the concept is very subjective. We also liked the look of S6. No frills, but without flaws. Simple, but tasteful.
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Overall weight and dimensions characteristics also within normal limits. Dimensions 110 x 59 x 15.8 mm and weight 105 g, taking into account the battery can easily wear the device even in a breast shirt pocket, even in the back pocket of your jeans. Does not cause discomfort and wearing a belt (in this case in her purse Lenovo). So, without further ado proceed to a detailed examination of each side of the case. The front side has traditionally been the place the screen (it will be a separate conversation), which is located under the usual - at first glance - the key block. Familiar, because there are four keys, and centrally located five-way joystick. Looking closely, you will notice that instead of calling and hanging up the keys here are the other buttons. One of them runs a search through Google, and the other suppresses noise during a call or audio recording. Very controversial decision. Even more controversial decision to transfer looks like a green / red tubes on the left side face. About strangeness keep silent, but that during the conversation and keep your device customary way you can accidentally click on the "retreat", can not be silent. Because it happens quite often, especially at first.
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As for keyboard unit on the front side, then to it have no complaints. The buttons have a clear response, and work with them comfortably, although in the absence of the elements mentioned here are available to press the button has not so often. Joystick is modeled on many modern mobile phones, so talk about him almost nothing. The only thing worth noting - it tight turn. However, he always work properly, and generally comfortable.
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Above the screen is located in the center of the voice speaker, on either side of which found a place a pair of LEDs with a standard appointment. One of them is flashing while in the area of GSM-coverage and triggered by reminders, the second speaks of the wireless interfaces. On the left side than those referred to call buttons and lights-out, settled down rocker for volume control. Which, as always, talking adjusts the volume of the system dynamics, and in standby mode - the volume of the system. If the button is located below, then during the conversation fell to just below the thumb. Therefore, the fact that we have, take a little getting used to. Just above the visible power button device. The right side contains three buttons control playback (play / pause buttons and two scroll through tracks), and click camera. Because the camera is autofocus, two-position button. And the media keys, as we have said, can significantly ease the lives of those who love to listen to music on your device. And if all manufacturers will begin to pay attention to such trifles, WM-device will go the same way that ordinary cell phones. Although, of course, while talking about it early. Just watch the situation.
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The upper end of S6 is completely empty and the bottom is a slot for memory card (micro SD), a hole for a "soft reset" interface connector, which includes the USB-cable, headset and charger. All connectors are hidden under the trim caps.So, despite the abundance of elements, the bottom end looks quite aesthetically pleasing. Here, on the right-hand corner is the stylus holder. Not entirely clear logic manufacturer platforms. If the model is positioned as a multimedia (or semi-multimedia), why it is not equipped with a standard 3.5-millimeter audio jack or adapter, that allow the user to connect any headphones at all, not just complete a headset?
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It remains to mention the back side. Here we see the battery cover and camera lens, located between the two speaker system. More information about these elements will be discussed in the relevant sections of the review. In the meantime, Intermediate results and noted the excellent quality of materials used and their assembly, the absence of backlash and quite attractive design. Not without its controversial moments, so that the external examination will score "good".
Screen
The screen has the standard options: 2.8-inch diagonal, 240 x 320 pixels, the only thing that differs from the closest analogues - color. The manufacturer stated the map 262 thousand colors. However, in reality, when comparing screens with 262K and 65K hue is difficult to notice any difference. In the case of display S6 pleasantly pleased with the viewing angles (which almost came close to the figure 180 degrees) and good brightness, allowing you to work comfortably in the sun. Contrast, of course, could be higher. But overall, again, the display is quite good. Backlight brightness adjustable in 11 steps. Minimum level does not seem overpriced, it does not strain your eyes while reading in the dark, and the maximum, as we have said enough read in bright sunlight.
Speed and memory
Performance, unfortunately, is not the strongest place RoverPC S6. The reason is simple - TI OMAP750 processor with 200 MHz. According to the results of tests it shows itself weaker than OMAP850 with similar frequency. On the other hand, this processor is very economical, which allowed the manufacturer to achieve good indicator of battery life.
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Before proceeding to testing, for example, that freezes in the sometimes visible to the naked eye. Especially when you want to download a hefty doc-file or pdf-document scale. In addition, it takes a long time and "soft reset" - about two minutes. As for common tasks, such as their email, surf the web or phone calls, everything is within normal limits. Run and play, although not all are working perfectly. And it is precisely the fact of a weak CPU can not with good conscience be called a multimedia device. Well, let's look at the results of testing of Spb Benchmark. For clarity, we have identified several key tests.In the first diagram the results of testing of the processor:
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As can be seen the results are predictable. The leaders JAMA c 300 MHz processor, Samsung, these are HTC P3400 c 200 MHz OMAP 850 RoverPC S6 c and 200 MHz OMAP 750, and the last was Voxtel W520 c 200 MHz OMAP 730. The following chart shows the results of graphic tests. Here RoverPC S6 is second only to the communicator HTC, overtaking the 200 MHz and 300 MHz Voxel JAMA, it is possible that due to the operating system Windows Mobile 6, which more efficiently utilizes the hardware capabilities.
For those who are accustomed to seeing all the numbers of tests, offer a complete table of test results.
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| Spb Benchmark: test results |
Now let's see, that showed the testing with the player TCPMP (The Core Pocket Media Player) version 0.71. The samples for comparison in this table indicates the same communicators as in the previous one.
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Here, S6 concedes, is not significant, but inferior to i-mate and HTC, and, again, ahead of Voxtel. All this implies a simple conclusion: RoverPC S6 makes it comfortable to watch videos at a resolution of 320 x 176 and below. It's definitely not something to be proud multimedia communicator. However, if we take into account the fact that movies in this resolution take up very little space, it looks like not such a terrible drawback. Speaking of memory, repeat the numbers listed at the beginning of the review. RAM is the standard 64 MB and ROM - no less than the standard 128 MB. However, it is just dry figures from the technical characteristics, in reality, RoverPC S6 retains the user's needs approximately 27 MB of RAM, of almost 48 MB of dedicated system, and about 37 MB left for storage.
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If memory for most tasks well enough, with the storage situation is not the best way. For the first time, however, may be sufficient 256 MB complete the card. Well, the maximum supported amount of memory card (micro SD) is 2 GB.
Sound
Instead of one system dynamics, on the back side RoverPC S6 is located ... two speakers. However, because the speakers are located very close to each other (at a distance of a camera lens), no stereo here is not audible. But this pair is loud enough so that the call to miss will be very difficult, even in a noisy place. Oh and, of course, it would be a plus for those who are very difficult to wake up in the morning from the alarm. Voice speaker also sounds pretty loud, need to use the maximum volume level almost does not arise. Opportunities standard microphone, and in especially difficult circumstances comes to the rescue button noise suppression.
On a non-standard connector garniturnoy we said above, so proceed to consider the communication capabilities of the communicator.
Interpersonal skills, telephone features
Telephone communicator module can only work in networks GSM (900/1800/1900 MHz). And the protocols transmit / receive data is present GPRS (Class 10). For calls traditionally used application Phone. As ring tones can be set ringtone formats MP3, AAC or AAC +. When comparing a set of wireless modules with the preceding RoverPC S5, you'll notice some major differences. For example, instead of Bluetooth version 1.1, here we have 1.2. Naturally, it is now 2007 and the vast majority of today's WM-devices equipped with Bluetooth 2.0 with EDR and a large list of supported profiles. However, the S6 is not so bad as it might seem: support profile A2DP, which may partially compensate for the absence of 3,5-millimeter audio jack.
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Appeared and Wi-Fi module that supports the specification 802.11b. Both modules operate smoothly and steadily. Find fault with an objective to nothing. Standard application allows you to change only the basic options. Therefore, those who need a more fine-tuning Wi-Fi, will have to resort to using tools of third-party developers, which can be found under "Programs for Pocket PC."
Capabilities built-in camera
Despite decreased in comparison with RoverPC S5 matrix resolution, the camera takes a new model is much better. However, before turning to the features and view images, note the location of the lens. It does not cover up and at the top of the rear side of the case. The most uncomfortable moment is that if you hold your device to the ear, index finger often rests directly into the lens. The remaining prints impact on the quality of images. However, with careful handling, RoverPC S6 may be a good replacement unpretentious digital cameras. Located next to the lens flare, which is enough power for shooting at very close range. When compared to the closest analogues, the picture quality at about the same level as that ASUS P525/P535 and Gigabyte g-Smart i300. Maximum resolution for still images is 1600 x 1200. In addition, the available size 1280 x 960, 640 x 480 320 x 240. The degree of JPEG-compression vcego regulated in two steps. With the automatic white balance in most cases, problems arise. There is a macro mode and night mode feature. The latter is capable of a little "pull" the quality of pictures in the dark, but there is a lot of noise.
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The results of the camera, you can see below.
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 522,6 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 331,1 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 357,7 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 302,2 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 390,3 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 436,0 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 680,8 Kb) |
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| RoverPC S6: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 422,1 Kb) |
As for video, there is nothing to surprise the machine can not. Maximum resolution for videos is a modest 176 x 144, and in case of recording clips for MMS entry is made in the resolution of 160 x 120. On the quality of videos is slightly inferior to the same ASUS P525. But here provides the ability to record in different formats: 3GP, 3G2 or MP4. Interested parties can evaluate the example of the camera to record video on their own.
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| RoverPC S6: Video sample (3gp, 176 x 144, 703 kb) |
Runtime
Before we proceed to measuring of battery life, we recall that the capacity of the complete battery of 1100 mAh. Moreover, complete with a spare battery communicator comes the same capacity. So, in principle, the results can be doubled. Since the last review in testing methodology has not changed. So ... 1. Maximum load. Vykruchena the brightness to maximum volume of the speaker, too, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, via Windows Media Player in the cycle is played a "heavy" video. Battery life in this mode was - 4 hours 12 minutes. 2. Reading of the text. All wireless modules are disabled. The brightness is set to the second division of the account. On the PDA started reading the text in Haali Reader with automatic scrolling. Time work was - 14 hours 45 minutes. 3. MP3 Playback. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and the screen turned off. Listening through headphones at maximum volume. We used a Pocket Media Player and composition with a constant bit rate (192 kbps). Hours - 21 hours 7 minutes.
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The results are very good. This is not a record, but the figures are much secondary. On the following diagram shows how the results look RoverPC S6 in comparison with models from other manufacturers. And if we talk about subjective experiences and work in mixed mode, the average communicator "live" for about two days. Plus do not forget about the presence of a second battery in the kit, which actually makes it possible to double the results.
Software stuffing
RoverPC S6 is the first device from the Rover, running on Windows Mobile 6.
Enumerate all the differences from Windows Mobile 5, we are not going to mention only the main: - Smart Dial - updated Dialer that operates on the principle of predictive input. That is when dialing automatically checked contacts that match the dialed letters on the keyboard. It is not clear why the keys themselves do not have Russian letters, although they are accounted for when recruiting. Perhaps this feature of the device of the first delivery, well let's hope that Rover will release a corresponding update.
- Remote Desktop, which replaced the program Terminal Service, allows you to connect to a remote computer. Of the advantages can be noted more flexible configuration.
- Total change in interface
- HTML formatting letters in the standard Outlook Mobile. - Windows Live services Live Search and Live Messenger.
- Windows Update - service that allows you to download updates directly on your device.
- Encryption of data on the card.
- Feedback - Services to collect information on errors in serving periodically send reports to Microsoft in order to improve the operating system.
With regard to third-party programs, they set very modest. Here, we only tool for noise reduction, which we have already mentioned, and mobile search from Google - an application that simply opens the mobile page of search engine.
The list ends with a built-in applications, but is once again to recall the complete set. One of the CDs included in the kit contains a collection of demo versions of popular software for Pocket PC from the company NashSoft. Among the programs on the disk is almost full range of applications from Spb Software House, dictionaries, organizers, and many other useful utilities. You can safely put the demo version, but like the program to purchase without leaving the computer, the benefit of all of them are sold through online stores.
Price issue
At the start of sales, which nearly coincides with the time of publication of this material, the retail price of the communicator RoverPC store chain "The computer in the palm" is 15,990 rubles.
Conclusions
And in the end? But in the end get a very good communicator. Let not without shortcomings and controversial issues, but it attracts a reasonable cost, a complete set of wireless interfaces, good camera and a rich bundle. In addition, it is one of the first models that work on Windows Mobile 6 Professional. The new software platform allows RoverPC a slight advantage over closest rivals. And the presence of Wi-Fi allocates S6 against the same i-mate JAMA and the HTC P3400.Fans of mobile music certainly will appreciate the availability of additional keys. And if you traditionally keep all the positive and negative features in the boxes, then we obtain the following picture:
Pros: - rich package bundle
- good built-in camera
- good performance runtime
- availability of additional buttons for controlling media player
Cons: - inconvenient location of the keys the call and hang up
- garniturnoy custom connector
- poor performance
- equipment: a controversial case
The authors, translation:
