Travel Notes, or as a week to learn how to skillfully ride around Moscow

Once the great Greek sage Archimedes said: "Give me a fulcrum and I will move the world." Fulcrum I have not had, and the world, I honestly was not going to flip. And I had a new Pocket PC Mitac Mio 168 with built-in GPS receiver and navigation program PocketGPS Pro Moscow from "MakTsentr.

Prelaunch handling

Reception Reception!

The appearance of devices with integrated GPS receiver, PDA enthusiasts to what I can include here, waiting for a long time. But personally, I have a valid concern that the reception quality of the built-in a handheld receiver will leave much to be desired. Therefore, attaching a test Mio 168 to the windshield of his car, I was mentally prepared to fight for the signal. To my great relief, the reception was at a very high level. At least Feedback satellites was almost always, even when I passed by a majority of flyovers. And, as expected, was lost only in the tunnels. So a decent level of acceptance is mainly ensured by built-in antenna Mio 168, which is located on the back and opens up like a reflector. But first things first. Firstly, talk about how to properly fix your computer in the car. The problems that it was not, as I once found a box with suction cup holder. Holder is mounted directly on the windshield. And then pull out his sucker is very, very problematic. I was not able to do so even with two hands. From the use of radical fizmer stopped only concern for the integrity of the windshield and common sense. After thinking a bit and looking holder found at the suction cup small tab. If you pull for him, it suckers readily departs. True, the special need in the daily performance of this procedure is not because the computer can be easily removed from the holder and the holder to leave the glass. It is unlikely that robbers will be tempted simply a plastic holder. However, very doubtful users are advised to shoot accessory - away from sin. Next step - control of the computer. Expand the computer at the desired angle, keeping in mind that usability should be combined with traffic safety. Therefore, adjustable everything carefully, so that the route could see, not really distracted from the road, and so that the computer does not block a road.

Little about the PDA Mitac Mio 168 in the light of navigation

Unfortunately, any electronic device in need of food. In Mitac 168 no backup battery, so if you suddenly charge the main battery runs out, then all data, including setting the navigation software will be lost. Do not forget to periodically recharge the battery! To do this, there is a normal network adapter and an optional adapter for charging from the cigarette lighter. One battery charge Mio 168 is enough for 5.5 hours with a minimum illumination and about 3 hours at maximum level. Therefore, during long journeys vozite a spare adapter is good, it is not burdensome. The main problem when driving in the afternoon - the sun. Since the display in most modern Pocket PC (namely those CPC was established navigation system PocketGPS Pro Moscow) transflective, then the sun it is very glare. Therefore, something to consider to constantly expand the computer or close it by hand. On this basis there was even a rationalization proposal - to build a small handheld visor:) But this is still true ... To a question about how to manage test Mio 168. In terms of design and management of this most our guinea is a standard Pocket PC, which is no different, for example, from almost the same, only without GPS - Mitac Mio 336, a review that we publish in the near future. Just mention that the power of the processor (400MHz Intel PXA255) and 64MB of RAM for our hero's eye enough to program the navigation worked without a "brake".

1. antenna
2. on / off switch power supply
3. voice recorder button
4. reset button
5. headphone jack
6. microphone
7. plug the power adapter
8. lattice dynamics
9. controls (application buttons and navigation buttons)
10. LED indicators
11. Holder with suction cup

Cards in your hand!

Navigation program was given to me by "MakTsentr. In my possession was PocketGPS Pro Moscow 2.0.59R version with maps of Moscow and Moscow region, made by "Geocenter-Consulting.

Management of the program navigation

Before the start of a small educational program for managing navigation system. Menus in the conventional sense is no, and all management is carried out by two rows of programmable pictograms (six in the top row and six in the bottom) and six hardware buttons. Total - 18 control buttons. Believe me, this is quite enough on almost all occasions. Although the actual functions of the program so much more. Just the user can program the 18 buttons on the functions that he uses most often to provide them quick access. The second option, where you can disable the display of the top and bottom panel with control buttons. In this case, all the display space will be given a map display (which is very useful when driving in the city center). The menu in this case is implemented as a transparent buttons, some of which are also reprogrammed. It is invoked by clicking on the diamond in the center of the map. Such opportunities program settings allow you to "sharpen" it to the needs of almost any user.

Peculiarities of the National GPS-navigation

In order to correctly and quickly travel the roads of Moscow, you need four things:
• equipment with GPS navigation
• detailed map of the city, preferably with the house numbers, street names, subway stations and a bunch of other reference information
• possible information about traffic jams
• and, in fact, a car.

You can certainly do without all this. But the alternative to on-board PDA Navigation with GPS-receiver can actually serve only ten years of professional driving in Moscow, for example, as a taxi driver. The presence of such priceless knowledge of baggage can boast not one, so we, humble and ordinary motorists have to find other more accessible means. In particular, to use a bunch of PDA and GPS-receiver, or a solution of "two-in-one", as in our case, the Mio 168 with integrated receiver, about the features of which - just below. The navigation system is, of course, will be useful not only motorists but also pedestrians, but, first, foot movement is not like "equestrian" in terms of speed, and also in the metro GPS hardware is not working. Battery such "satellite pedestrian" as the day is not enough, will have to find places to recharge. I probably will not open for most American readers, if you decipher the acronym GPS, a Global Positioning System - a translation of "global positioning system", but still let me spend a little digression. Using this system, we can determine their position on the ground. It is based on a network of U.S. space satellites (mostly military orientation). To determine your location, you will need a radio that works in the standard GPS. Need I say that because the system is bourgeois, then complete control over it, too, in the hands of our American friends. And they came up with it not for peaceful purposes, but rather for the needs of the Pentagon. And like everything that made the American Military, GPS has a very decent options in this case, the positioning accuracy. For us mere civilians smertnyx, this accuracy is purposely zagrublena to 30 m, so that we, or God forbid, do not try to join the ranks of international terrorism and messing with the radio-controlled nuclear bombs. So do not be surprised if your car is not exactly on the line route, as indicated on the map or on his right or left, and not necessarily on the roadway itself. Do not forget - the accuracy of 30 m. The map is traced with much greater precision. Maximum scale - 10 m, the minimum size of an object can have multiple meters. In short, see how it looks on the screen of my test PDA. So there is some inconsistency - one of the Parties, map with excess precision, while the other, the navigation receiver, rounded testimony. Oh, if I have a military GPS-navigator, and yes even a tank in the boot, there would be no problems with the Moscow traffic jams:) However, to live such a discrepancy does not interfere, because the routing is not particularly affected.

Routing

We now proceed, in fact, to a route. First, select two points - the beginning and end of the route. For example, take a trip from work to home. For the choice of the route to use the button "Search", on this tab, specify the name of the street, choose your house number and then simply click on the "top" or "the end of the route." If you frequently or at regular intervals you use some points on the route, then we can put them in a bookmark. Then when you run your program addresses will be stored in bookmarks, and every time I need to search for these addresses will disappear. When you exit the program laid before the route is lost if it does not save, saying it is configured, so do not forget to save your route, otherwise you'll have to lay it again.

Known objects

You can search not only by a specific address, but also by object name or specify a particular type of search facility, located within a specified distance from your location. For example, I had to find a hotel to accommodate guests to my colleagues from other cities. Typing a search facility "hotel" in PocketGPS Pro Moscow, I found a couple of nearby schools, one of which safely and placed my guests. In addition, the program can find the nearest gas station, hospital and many other facilities. A total of about 20,000, I did not check the exact number, but they are really very much, so the probability of finding any desired object nearby is very high. Next, the program would automatically pave the route and tell you about it. Do not forget to include the option «GPS-support", namely it includes the constant scanning of the current position and to bind the vehicle to the route (icon will appear in the car with headlights on). If you ever get off the route, the program displays a warning. If you come back, we will report about that too. Cheerful woman's voice will be notified about changes in the direction of movement (only at the nodal points), bookmarks, which you pass. The screen can display the vehicle speed, distance to the end of the route, the total length of the route, street name and house number, by which you pass. In order to know in advance when you need to make the next turn, you must include "the panel orientation, which will give the necessary information about the direction and distance to it. Imagine my surprise when, when you turn on the Ring Road from the Ryazan prospectus, I discovered that the next turn, which I will do, is situated 37 km to the intersection with Michurinskiy prospect. In general, this is correct, because the Moscow Ring Road can be considered an expensive line. I have already mentioned the key points - on the idea of ​​a point at which you can change the direction of motion. However, the location of some key points I must confess, surprised me. The number of key points can be increased or decreased, but regardless of their number, to get rid of the fact that sometimes the complete absence of forks (just bend) program recommends taking the left or right, you can not.

PocketGPS Pro Moscow: few key points

Thus, when Congress to MKAD program says "turn right" (in Congress), and at the exit on the Ring Road will not say it.This is exactly correct, but that's why at the congress, where nowhere to go except straight ahead, she recommends to "take right"?

PocketGPS Pro Moscow: a lot of key points

The only apparent benefit of warnings on the bends of the road - is vigilance. Sometimes it's better to warn the driver not to relax. The same pleasant voice tells it to turn, and does so in advance, at a specified distance of you (from 1m and ending 1km). During execution of the maneuver, you repeat two times where you actually turn.

Traffic jams

The program allows you to route between two different points on the map of Moscow. Moreover, the route is not what Aby, and optimized, by default, the shortest time. But the shortest route is not the fastest, if also take into account the peculiarities of the national movement in Moscow. I mean traffic jams. There are two ways to combat this scourge forever. The first - is to build a new route, taking into account information about traffic jams. However, in this case the information must come quickly and be accessible at any time. In PocketGPS Pro Moscow provides the ability to download data from the company Vessolink "(project" SMIlink). For this purpose the channel GPRS (I personally prefer a mobile phone with GPRS function and an infrared port) or a special messenger that connects to a PDA via COM-cable. Frankly, neither cable or infrared port is not the best solution. In the case of cable will be occupied only existing computer communication slot, as well as a separate connectors for automobile power adapter not, when dealing with a pager on the simultaneous charging of the battery have to forget. (In preparing an article for publication, it became known that in the near future within the range of accessories Pocket Nature will be released on cable, which will connect the messenger while connecting to the cigarette lighter. - Approx. Editor.) Infrared is also not the sugar. Try to arrange fixed on the windshield of your computer and phone with an infrared port to each other. If you can, then go ahead and sign up in the circus school on the acrobatic department. (Also on the way a new cable series Pocket Nature, which will be connected to any PDA mobile phone, having a COM-port. - Ed.) Some say that there is no need to download the plug permanently. However, the situation with the traffic congestion is changing quickly enough, the program also allows you to receive the scheme caps with a frequency of 1 minute to 1 hour. Thus, the route on the map denotes oily red line, and traffic jams are displayed by colored yellow arrows. Their density corresponds to the real density of traffic jams.

PocketGPS Pro Moscow: the route without traffic jams

PocketGPS Pro Moscow: the route to traffic jams

Of course, the online delivery of information about traffic jams - a very handy thing, but, unfortunately, is not free. As the saying goes, there is always a choice - either pay a monthly fee, or the most to collect information about Moscow traffic jams and take it into account when drawing up the route. Thus, we proceed to the second option - manual mode input congestion and traffic jams. If you know that the chosen route - a waste of time (due to traffic jams, of course), then by selecting one or several points along the way, put there forced the deadlock.

PocketGPS Pro Moscow: initial route

Pocket GPS Pro Moscow: close the route

You can close the passage (using the points "artificial congestion" or "closures"), open the passage or repeal movement in the opposite direction.

Pocket GPS Pro Moscow: do not travel back

The latter function emulates the option of one-way traffic. You can then chart a new route, or take advantage of automatic routing (it is below).

Pocket GPS Pro Moscow: a new route, taking into account traffic jams

The program will pave a new route option by deleting your chosen point. And not just ask you to drive around this point, but actually chooses the best route.

Let's go!

Your Route

Several times it happened that I have strayed from the route - turning the wrong place or forget to be rearranged into the desired range (about choosing the bands below). In this case (if you specify the corresponding option in the settings) automatically paved a new route. For example, I had to go with Berezhkovskaya the building next to the Metro South West. " The route passes through Michurinsky Ave. But I thought, and moving of university prospectus, is not turned on him. The program automatically made a new route by giving me a warning about the turns (they are there for two).For the moment, I continued to move up to Komsomolsk prospect, even if the program continued to offer me some new options. In the end, I chose a route through Vernadskogo. As I mentioned above, during the test several times I strayed from the route. It was connected mainly with the fact that the program does not distinguish, for whatever band you are, indeed, move. Which is quite natural, given the accuracy of the machine. It is difficult to claim on your browser to distinguish between two bands, the overall width - less than 30 m. As the distance at which the program warns me about the need to make a turn, I put a small, optimistic, relying on its experience driver, it is not surprising that in Moscow I often crush it was not possible in time to readjust. So - tip for the future, if an unfamiliar area, ask the distance at which will appear voicemail notification, a little more. Then time to adjust to the proper lane, will be enough. Another amusing thing - a journey through the tunnels. When traveling through a tunnel GPS satellite signal is lost and can not locate the machine. Therefore, the program simply paves the direct route and awaits the signal after the end of the tunnel in order to adjust their new location. But since most of the tunnels have a radius of curvature, it is not surprising that, immediately after the "entry link" you find yourself in a few dozen meters away from the expected yield. This is particularly evident when driving on the Lefortovo tunnel (from outside the 3rd Ring Road). However, after a few seconds, the program identified my new position and "returned" to the original route.

Some errors

Traffic lights

PocketGPS Pro Moscow is able to run the route, taking into account traffic jams and artificial barriers, but there is one important nuance that the developers have not yet taken into account. I mean the traffic lights. It would seem that so special. However, most existing crossings are traffic lights that have no equivalent priority traffic. When crossing the main road with a minor while working traffic light in the "green" mode for the main road above. It turns out that you cross the intersection faster if you go on the main road, rather than minor. This is especially true of intersections with special tracks - Leninsky Prospect, Komsomolsk, etc. The program also does not distinguish between two different lights, so a shorter route may be not the fastest. Tell me, you need to go from Michurinsky prospect on Gagarin Square. The system offers a route shorter in distance, but not the fastest, because a large amount of time spent at a traffic light when turning from the Lomonosov Prospect on Leninsky Prospekt. Experience has shown that the difference in the three-kilometer offset by savings in time.

Routes of invisibility

In this head office will discuss the routes that can not be laid. Throughout the week I had quite often go into the city center. During these visits, I managed to find routes that do not exist and the objects to which you can get directions. This refers to the following. There is a map of Moscow buildings to which the program can not make a route, as if they can not pass. Explain this phenomenon, I unfortunately can not, moreover, that the passage is in reality and marked on the map. True, the problem is easily solved, you only need to specify as the destination number of the neighboring houses on the same street. Destination was Staromonetny, house number 5. Directions to this house was not possible, the route generated only when I have as an objective of house number 14. Now back to the route-phantoms. We are talking about the routes along which you can not drive, but their program is still paving. For example, turning points, which is forbidden. Well, that Navigator is able to run routes automatically, as soon as you deviate from its old route. Therefore, finding the absence of rotation, I'll just continue to move along the main road and switch to the new route, which leads me safely to the endpoint. There are several causes of such errors. Firstly, the construction work, which do not appear on the map. Frankly, really hard to quickly return the card, all road work, and most importantly during their clean up afterwards.

Directions to the street of Academician Petrovsky closed due to construction works

The second reason - changes that do not have time to make this version of the map. The only way to deal with it - on their own to close the passage until the next update.

Directions to the Mamonovsky lane closed

Directions to the Little Kislovskiy lane closed

Moscow Region

Frankly, if the card I was pleasantly surprised by Moscow of its detail (despite the presence of inaccuracies), then with the Moscow area, the situation is somewhat worse. After spending the entire working week in Moscow on the weekend I was going to the cottage. My trip was very simple, because the problem is located near the village Oboldina. Initially (within Moscow area) everything was just fine. Difficulties began after I turned off the Ring Road at Schelkovskoe highway. Suddenly, about 2 km from Moscow revealed a left turn, which leads me to the perfect route. Usually I need to drive about 40 km to reach the problem, and according to this route is only 28 km. Saves time, no traffic jams - that's all well and good, but there is one "but." Unfortunately, Shchelkovo highway do not have this left turn.Therefore, closed the passage on the open road again, I "got back" their just 40 km away. The reason for that - the level of detail and accuracy of maps of the Moscow region. In some places, yet there are inaccuracies. It's a pity it was too new route has been tempting to some point in time even wanted to lay it yourself:)

If ...

As already experienced user afford to make some suggestions, which would have improved the usability of the program, at least for me.

So, I think that in future versions of Pocket GPS Pro Moscow it would be nice:
• implement the priorities of the traffic lights
• Still putting the data on long construction work, which, given the specificity of the national dorproma can go from months to years (Folk wisdom: "There is nothing more permanent than temporary")

And separately, it is already considered in the article about ligament - Mio 168 and PocketGPS Pro Moscow - would be nice if the producers of the CCP still fired machine with support for wireless standard Bluetooth and a built cputnikovym receiver. They could then connect the mobile phone with Bluetooth and GPRS, not taking it out of pocket, or use a wireless headset to listen to the prompts to change the direction of motion.

Constant updating

The basic solution to all problems - it's constant updating of maps over which the developers (as far as I know) are constantly working and will work. More information about the navigation system PocketGPS Pro Moscow can be found on its website - http://www.pocketgps.ru.

Instead of a conclusion

Sony Vaio VGN-U50: Japanese PC-miniature

Originality begins with a well-known pereotkryvaniya.

Alexander Kruglov No matter what the skeptics in the mobile device is important is portability. Whatever possessed the characteristics of any laptop, PDA, phone or any other little gadget, it is clearly not gained popularity due to being deprived of this quality. Moreover, it is difficult to imagine the scope of, say, a computer, where the mobility was unnecessary. Always pleasant to manipulate a small stylish gizmos, rather than a clumsy pile of scrap metal. It is not surprising that every year, month, week, day of computers in general and its components in particular are becoming smaller. Only increases their usefulness. If previously heaped toys could only run on desktops impressive size, it celebrates the fun a similar level even available on handhelds. PDAs are able to entertain the owner of thousands of entertaining games, one more beautiful than another, emulate dozens of consoles, as well as with a vengeance to fill the serious needs of the user, such as complex calculations and plotting. However, conventional computers are also on site is not standing, moving further and further towards their handheld counterparts. Now there are some laptops are not much bigger than PDAs two-, three-year statute of limitations. Special contribution to the miniaturization of the PC business has made the company Sony. This producer in his characteristic manner decided not to stop there and strode ahead, then releasing a laptop, or PDA - Vaio VGN-U50. Still in the arsenal of a model with an index of U70, but it differs little from the younger sister. Instead of operating system Windows XP Home, which stands at the U50, is equipped with an older modification Pro, double the memory. In addition, the U70 "working" Pentium M with 1 GHz instead of 900 MHz of Celeron'a in U50. This, of course, increased the price the computer and quite noticeable. We were also "under the scalpel" hit model U50, which, besides the above details, from the older brother is no different, but it is cheaper, and the Russian shelves already.

From left to right - ASUS S200N and Sony Vaio U50 with a complete keyboard

I remember, long ago released a mini-laptop ASUS S200 at the time created a furor - a small, functional, fully accessible, in general, what the doctor ordered. Machine immediately became a bestseller among the traveling folk, and just the users who have mobility in my life which plays a role. Then there was a slightly updated model S200N. Refreshing hardware, ASUS hardly increased size and weight parameters, which further extends the life of the ruler. It would seem that nothing is more mobile and do not need, nor would form factor - would have to sacrifice something. But Sony has proven that there is creativity in the flasks Japanese forges.

Person eastern ethnicity

Right out of the box Sony Vaio U50 has not caused some sort of extraordinary emotions - the usual big-screen handheld, something he has to take. The same paucity of controls and ports, as well as the familiar cradle and stylus, in general, nothing special. True, alarmed by apparent angularity of the device. So someone who, as Sony found wanting in love for asceticism is hardly possible. The company has always tried to supply his unit interesting delights and fanciful forms. U50 also will appeal to conservative buyer, which attracts the severity of the lines and shapes, as well as the overall solidity of the exterior. Incidentally, besides the laptop in the box found a lot of bonuses - the cradle (also known as a docking station), headphones with remote control, two cover, an adapter for connecting an external monitor and LAN, as well as foldable keyboard. In general, Sony is not stingy on the equipment. Vaio U50 remarkably modest, part dimensions, taking into account the full stuffing the notebook, but rather weighty for Pocket PC - 550 was a long time to keep this unit with one hand is inconvenient - wrist gets tired easily. Therefore, the role of the handheld device all the same suit as a last resort, and then perform it is not the best way. But taking "actor" in both hands, you can fully enjoy the ease of use. In this case, your fingers fall exactly on the controls and ergonomics are not satisfactory. Afflicts only appreciable thickness of the shell, but not very much.

Sony Vaio VGN-U50 and the Dell Axim X5

By the way, a full laptop is not filling, and a removable battery. Its capacity (1800 mAh) is great for handheld and obviously does not live up to an acceptable level for the notebook. Unfortunately, it only confirmed the tests of battery life, during which the machine lasted less than three hours (2:43) of continuous play Quake 3 Arena.

Five inches of our lives

Fed malyutke quite a grown-distribution noble fun, we decided to test the performance, battery life, ease of use ... uh ... okay, then darken, I just wanted to play your favorite "Kwaku" after a long day, and nothing more or less powerful of the computers except U50, was not found. Fortunately, the weekend did not disappoint, and interested parties had accumulated a decent amount, and hence the action promised to be exceptionally fascinating. Understandably, without the keyboard to try gaming destination machine was unreal. Fortunately, this unit comes folding its USB-version. Well, everything is connected, the battery is charged, the settings are ... In the more-oo-oh! But what is it? We U50 has consistently kept clear outsider, moreover - in last place. It turns out that the existing joystick is absolutely not suitable for dynamic action.If rassekanie online spaces a couple of minutes before that did not cause any complaints - where accuracy and speed of reaction does not play such a significant role, in games navigator U50 looks to put it mildly, not the best way. Well, it was intended - is done, a minute later roemsya in the box for the mouse. It is obvious that once there is a keyboard, then USB-rodent somewhere to be. To my great disappointment, it was not. Not found at first and stylus. However, the latter is still there. He made a very unusual way for PDAs - a kind of amulet necklace, which is worn outside the body and looks very stylish, though not very easy to use because of its miniature.

Ctilus Sony Vaio VGN-U50

But let's not about the little things, go back to our amusements, or rather, to the attendant problems. Mouse had to borrow working nepodeleku colleagues - let it suffers from its own affairs on the keyboard. Well, a rodent found, but the second USB port on the body was not there. Okay, the problems we do not get used. In fact, there are additional ports, but not on the case and not on the adapter, and on the cradle. By the way, there is not only them, but first things first. Hooking his arm, and again ... is not working. What's the matter now? Of course, in the diet. Without him nothing, but because more than one stand-alone USB ports available - a big minus if there is no nearby electrical outlet. Well, we have to tolerate. Hooking up a bunch of the network and now everything runs like clockwork - define and adjust smoothly and evenly, but again the problem. "Sonya" is not contained in the cradle, trying to fall at the most inopportune moment. Ventured another misfortune Included Accessories - Stand semi-holder. Well, like all the barriers broken, you can start e-slaughter. Yet again, something was missing. Well, yes, the screen size is great for U50 only handheld standards (5), work in the "hospital" on this displeychike not too convenient. Fortunately, the aforementioned cradle among other things, and there is a VGA-out, but because my business colleague who was just finishing work, after the mouse has lost and the monitor. What does not make for the sake of fun! By the way, if the USB enclosure machines alone, and without stand here not to do, then you can connect your monitor and using a small connector. He also concurrently serves to work with the LAN. In general, if not ubiquitous USB, you could do without the cradle, the more that machine can be charged both directly and through the base. However, something we delayed the preparation of the fun, too, and night in the yard.Let us not hesitate, run the whole cause of the turmoil, we expose to the maximum settings for standard-definition display (800 x 600 pixels): 32-bit texture and color depth trilleynuyu filtering, as well as "High" wherever possible. As a result, we get 46.4 fps on the first "demo" and 48.7 fps after playing the second record. As can be seen, the rate of more than playable. High performance cars and is confirmed in the ordinary course of working with office suite, Internet browser, e-mail and other applications that may be needed every day in the hectic routine work, people. This is especially pleased because I like and I am sure many readers have with enviable frequency to receive a hefty email attachment. Little one is from Sony with an enviable urgency was operating stomegabaytnymi archives and dozens of images. What do you think, so our new product has such an enviable speed?

Taste of small

The basis of the hardware U50 is Intel Celeron processor with a clock frequency of 900 MHz - not the most speedy solution, but in most cases is quite acceptable. Especially that surround it is very tasty hardware. Why are only 256 MB DDR-RAM. Happy and embedded video chipset Intel 855GM. Has 64 MB of memory, it allows you to display an image on an external monitor with a resolution up to 1600 x 1200 pixels. This is sufficient for nonprofessional use. Winchester served as a novelty Toshiba hard drive capacity of 20 GB. Of course, this amount is enough only for basic needs, especially as the characteristics do not shine - the data rate corresponds to the standard Ultra DMA 100, and the search time is 15 ms. Fortunately, there are two expansion slots - CompactFlash, and MemoryStick. They were tested with 512 MB of SanDisk and 16 MB of Sony, respectively - no problems, everything worked smooth and regular. From the integrated module for wireless communication, there is only Wi-Fi. Bluetooth not. However, to add the last with expansion slots - second job. Incidentally, the standard for most laptops PCMCIA in the U50 is not - a very big disadvantage of the model. Justification can not serve even craving for exceptional mobility, is not forgiven. But the battery is pleased replacement design, which, incidentally, is typical of most laptops. This will allow, if necessary to take the road a couple of "guarateeing. Warms the soul and the fact that the market is twice as capacious version of the power source for the U50. Unfortunately, we were not able to test it in action, but believe that from thence, 3600 mAh will increase the battery life of at least half time. In general, the hardware under review, the notebook looks strong serednyachki and quite acceptable for a wide range of tasks, especially given the portability of the device.

Mirror of the Soul

Screen Sony Vaio U50 is quite a lot for the mobile device diagonal - 5. This is sufficient for most applications, including working with spreadsheets and viewing of complex sites. But the resolution is not too large - only 800 x 600 pixels. Even the little girl S200 had a lot more points on the display. However, many people, and that's enough, and if necessary, no one forbids the software to increase the resolution. In the latter case, the screen shows only part of the picture, and the remainder showing scrolling under appropriate manipulation of the mouse - simply and conveniently.

Pop-up menu select the resolution

1600 x 1200 pixels on the screen Vaio U50

Display at the U50, in the best traditions of handheld computers, touchscreen. Such a change in practice more than convenient. Sensitivity to touch - that's what's missing laptop screen, as in this case saves a lot of time and, hence, optimizing the work process. The second pleasant trifle screen U50 is a possibility to change the orientation of the press of a single hardware button. It is also the least useful option. Through these moments, the screen is noticeably DUT wins against their notebook counterparts.

Horizontal screen orientation

The vertical screen orientation

Minor faults U50 is that all the signatures in pop-up menus are distorted and appear gobbledygook - something intermediate between English, Russian and Japanese. Apparently, being felt Asian roots machine. However, as mentioned, minus the really small, because after a certain time in the tooltips do not need, having learned all purpose hardware keys.

Pop-up display settings

The quality of the screen raises no objections. By definition picture subjectively much like VGA-image at the appropriate Pocket PC. The brightness and color display U50, as is customary at Sony, at a high level. Thus, except for permission to pick on the screen of the new Vaio is difficult. However, given Sony's expected and not worth it.

The note in the margin

Another is to write a few words about that, for whatever reason, do not fall into other sections - a small but not unimportant nuances, touches that complement the portrait, and without which the whole picture is only a pale sketch. The first of forgotten things - it's sound system. Unlikely from a mobile device, the work as a music center. It would be foolish to require a "little big" (pardon the pun) - laptop - high quality loud sound. However, a new product from Japan has not held even to the most understated straps. Quality built-in monaural speaker is inferior to many PDAs, not to mention the sound of conventional laptops. It is unusual to expect from the very small and not very expensive computer so mediocre sound quality. However, as already mentioned, the use of mobile devices as a music center - a dubious pleasure. Much more important to work as a player. Then U50 is much better.Not happy weighty apparatus, and the size is not the small, but everything else on top. The sound quality through headphones is not satisfactory. Headphones themselves are more comfortable likeness popular KOSS The Plug. Quite expensive, it's corporate decision to Sony, slightly worse than protects against outside noise and gives a smaller bass, but much more comfortable in-ear and just as reliable in their holds. Pleased with their presence and control panel. It eliminates the possible significance of the dimensions and weight characteristics of the model, so that you can almost forget about them, putting a laptop in the bag. Speaking of clothes ... Included with the Sony Vaio U50 comes just two cases - tough for the laptop ... ... And the soft keyboard. And he and the other wonderful to meet its targets for saving content to the same stylish looks, and soundly executed. In general, noble clothes.

Wi-Fi!

Without doubt, it makes sense to at least briefly and wireless capabilities U50. As already mentioned above, in favor of Wi-Fi was put on circumcision Bluetooth, although the integration of both modules are unlikely to drastically reduce the mobility of the attractiveness of new items, or would considerably increase its value. However, the Japanese have gone even further. Also felt Infrared worthless anachronism in an era of rapid speed and maximum freedom, Sony deprived of fresh food and this stuff. Well, this step is even more controversial than the rejection of Bluetooth. Now, however, nothing can be done, we'll have to turn to the only means of communication U50 - Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, this feature is not framed by soft with firm hand, and therefore had to use a standard means of Microsoft. Fortunately, they are fully functional and comfortable, so complain to the Japanese people are not stingy for what. By the way, in defiance of our unenlightened public opinion on the Wi-Fi, as a secondary pastime for the elite, this technology into practice creates real miracles. However, the latest in today's mercenary world transformed into an ordinary optimization time, but we somehow believe in a fairy tale ... and believe there is in that. With Wi-Fi can not just go on the Internet through public access points, sitting in, say, a cafe at the Kuznetsk, or waiting for the plane in Sheremetyevo, but also, say, watch a movie anywhere in the apartment. Recently we were particularly interested, and we decided to try a novelty in the narrow-minded environment - in conjunction with Wi-Fi camera D-Link DCS-900w. As a result, a minimum of manipulation deuce without a "burr" began to play the shooting, and, at a considerable distance - within the entire editorial HPC.ru, ie about 10 meters hurdles. However, we will not stop, yielding to the temptation to test the same manner and the ability of U50 to the Internet through new-fashioned standard. But even here the notebook is not a surprise, smartly cutting through the vast expanses of the World Wide Web. Particularly pleased with the hardware slider to enable / disable the module. It will allow a marked degree to save battery power when wireless capabilities are not necessary.Thus, it remains to fill stinginess engineers Sony, adding U50 "Blue tooth" with "red eye" and you can not worry about communication with other devices.

Controls

Remember the jokes about a separate press "Ctrl + Alt + Del" on your keyboard, running Windows? Well, of course, remember! But the Japanese craftsmen, apparently apprehended them without proper humor and supplied U50 appropriate buttons with the eloquent inscription. Well, the same thing has long been available to the handheld, though more modestly named - the soft-rezet and contains no such explicit signatures. However, the essence remains the same. Also from the controls is to provide a hardware slider button lock, which, coupled with complete remote control and headphones, as well as acceptable quality of sound makes a very good U50 player for playing music files. At the top end there is a separate and a button for "sleep" mode - STANDBY. Beside her are the expansion slots. If the CompactFlash corked stopper, the MemoryStick is open to dirt and dust - a step in the heady world of mobility U50. The latter refers to the USB-port, situated on the right end. Another noteworthy point about the controls under review, the laptop is a disadvantage sliders. They are too small and indistinct act at the level of the body, sacrificing ergonomics for the sake of design delights. But like the front panel buttons - no doubt a very stylish and elegant, they are nevertheless good for the part of ergonomics, in a word, in all respects successful elements. In general, the managerial "authorities" have made a positive impression. Available in sufficient quantity, almost in excess, they will be able to meet most needs of the owner, not creating barriers for this for comfortable use device.

Soft spot

By tradition, stop in a few words on the software, although there is currently very neprintsipialen - software for desktop myriad, and each must have already selected the most convenient for you. It remains only to transfer all on new clothes and enjoy the proven software. Can not always take to the road is necessary. Sometimes it is not enough room, sometimes brings the memory, sometimes banal lazy to get out of the bag add-on module, if you can do programmatically. This is especially clearly can be seen in the keyboard. Of course, no doubt, the external version of the hardware is much more convenient on-screen counterpart, but the situation is unacceptable when it happen quite often. That is why the unused virtual keyboard on mobile devices is hardly ever left. There is a U50 - Standard softinkoy Windows XP - the most simple and not very ergonomic, but initially Russified, match for the OS itself. Advise immediately change it more functional and convenient option as to connect each time an external keyboard is very tiring. Multimedia Player SonicStage is also not ideal among programs of its niche - it's too cumbersome, and not too easy to use. However, the program is crammed with different functional decently tasty, and therefore be able to meet the demanding user. (Though Winamp is better on all counts:) There is a programmatic set of U50 and a proprietary version of the player WinDVD. True, demand for WinDVD in the light of the lack of staffing the drive is highly questionable, but as you know, the horse does not always have to look at their teeth. Also in the software bundle included Sony Notebook Setup - unpretentious information management tool, nothing special is not presented. With it you can learn, for example, almost everything about the system ... Or impose a password ... Or to any other simple manipulations ... The same applies to the management settings ... ... Options and sound. Simply and tastefully with a pale, almost without ... But the firm "power manager" like. It can flexibly adjust the energy consumption, thereby extending the already not too great battery life. In this case, setting a surprisingly vivid, and so easy to learn. Relished and built-in "risovalka" - Windows Journal. Rather cumbersome, it is still easy to use and has an enviable functional. Everything else is standard, and nothing remarkable there, unless, of course, not counting various minor tweaks and very very small utilities, like softinkoy to work with the corporate standard Memory Stick. In general, the set of software and disappointed its scarcity - additional drives to your laptop is not available, but the preset does not correspond to the class computer and the manufacturer's standards. However, as emphasized by a few paragraphs above, minus the laptop this is not principled. But the fact remains.

Well forgotten in a fresh wrapper

It's time to sum up real hard test is very tasty new items from Sony. After tasting a new dish, we are without a doubt were more than satisfied. The Japanese have prepared quite bizarre, yet truly a full device that, in fact, will not be anything new except the combination of all necessary to do the mobile case. It was very good, though not without drawbacks, the main of which is, of course, price. $ 2999 - this is what to hide, much to most users, the amount in this case will have to pay only for the compactness of the laptop and the good name of Sony. Not happy and equipment. Of course, the keyboard and small bonuses like headphones thanks, but for a price tag could still give the device a CD or DVD, not to mention their R / RW-variants. The mouse also would not stir, even though it costs pennies compared to the price of a laptop, but because we will not waste time on trifles. Yes, and a standard for nearly all modern laptops PCMCIA-slot would be very helpful. It can be sacrificed for the sake of Memory Stick and CompactFlash combined. However, Sony has decided otherwise. Finally, given the connection, at least, the mouse and keyboard, it would be reasonable to put on the body of at least two ports, USB, rather than one.As can be seen, minus missing, but still more advantages. The main of them, of course - exceptional mobility of U50. With a lot closer to the handheld exterior, this notebook is equipped with a filling it is portable and not a Pocket PC with all the attendant benefits. Agree, it is tempting to carry around with a pocket full on desktop PCs. Pleasant and all sorts of outlandish things like regular stylus, quality headphones, etc. Finally, another important advantage of U50 is a stylish appearance. Seasoned users neponaslyshke know that Sony can not do clumsy things. That new laptop has turned so that with him not be ashamed to appear in polite society. Furthermore, U50 will immediately draw the attention of others, making it the center of his master. The authors, translation: