Palm Tungsten T3: when the tungsten more precious than gold

If you recall, the company introduced the first Palm Inc Tungsten T (we call them simply TT) in December last year. The following model series had to wait more than six months - an upgrade was the proud name of TT2. Now came the turn of the next update, which do not think twice named the TT3. It seems, Palm voznamerilas release their PDA Tungsten series has consistently decent and as fast - so you see, and close to the T34. The joke, of course, but as they say, every joke is a joke share. Meanwhile, at our editorial desk he found himself a long-awaited third, which we have repeatedly told you to someone else's words. Now prictupim to his own inspection.

Pro Display

The first rumors about the new Tungsten T3 began to walk long before it arrives. For example, it was known that the display has a resolution of new items in 480h320 points - similar to the CCP came from Sony a year ago. However, unlike the first Clie models with hi-res + screen, T3 supports not only the vertical display mode (so-called book), but also copes well with a horizontal (landscape). Switch between portrait or landscape modes by using a special icon in the status bar - ctrochke "located at the bottom of the screen (this innovation will talk a little below). Hull design, "third" inherited from its predecessors. That is the screen size can be reduced and, thanks to sliders - moving sled, hiding under a piece the size of 160x320 pixels. Thanks to this solution, the CCP in the folded state preserves family compact. Yes, and work with the T3 screen is now possible as the soul wills. However, the new display mode is not so simple. For example, a landscape full-screen mode is not compatible with all applications. Take the classic Note Pad. This programm can not "stretch" in his field by 480 pixels wide, but as her replacement may make utility Memo, which works with the "full" LANDSCAPE input. Another example - alternative reader MobiPocket, which also does not support landscape full-screen mode. But the native Palm Reader lets you view the book in a horizontal orientation.

Palm Tungsten T3: horizontal or landscape orientation

Of the complete software, best suited to work in landscape mode, 480h320 support Kinoma Player video player and Web browser Web Pro. If the program does not work on the abilities of full-screen, then "opened" state of extra space automatically has a virtual Graffiti area, which can not be removed, so with this software works better on a square screen, when the PDA is folded. I think that third-party developers will soon issue a software for TT3 is resolved and there will be an application adapted to work on hi-res + in a horizontal orientation. Now let's talk about the characteristics of the display. Its size is 2.2h2.2''in "folded" state and 2.2h3.25''- a "disclosure". It is easy to calculate the diagonal - 3,9'', which is even larger than that of Sony's NX series and NZ. Pixel size - 0,17 mm. If we compare models of line screens Tungsten'ov area, then the T3 it's nearly 1.4 times greater than that of T2.According to the magazine "Consumer: computers and software, which has developed a special technique for measuring the quality of the original displays, handheld computers, the maximum brightness of the display T3 was 77.4 cd/m2. For comparison, the closest in brightness to T3 are the HP iPAQ h3970, ASUS A620 and Rover PC P3 +. Illumination is not so bright as that of T2, but a bit brighter than the Zire 71. As with all the latest models of Palm Inc., Display backlight does not turn off. Minimum level of brightness in this case is 15Kd/m2 (like Sony PEG-TG50). Even this level of brightness can quite comfortably take in information from the display: to read e-books and watch videos. This is explained by the type of transflective backlight, which provides high contrast images (close to one) while working in an office or public transport. With work on the street, like all of transflective displays, the situation is worse, but you can still read without too much stress.

Pro Design

Housing

Corpus, in contrast to previous models series Tungsten, is made in the light-steel range. Moreover, made, apparently, out of some aluminum alloy. The dimensions of the new T3 not coincide with the size of its predecessor, T2. Beginner bit longer - 109mm (132mm - unencrypted) vs. 102 (123mm) at T2, wider - 76mm vs. 75mm and thickness - 16.7 mm versus 14.8 mm, but a little lighter - 153g against 158g. Taking a T3 or T2 in hand, you will not feel much difference. Despite the slight variations in size, the controls have a new computer are the same place where his predecessor. On the left sidebar you can find headphone jack, microphone and button on the recorder, which was slightly larger and more convenient. Of course, immutable Universal Palm Connector on the bottom ... Power button, a slot for memory card format MMC and SD with SDIO support and excellent telescopic stylus with spring-loaded mechanism for the spreads. This is perhaps the most successful to date, construction of a stylus.

Navigation button

Another striking difference between T3 from T2 - a navigation button and call button applications. If before they were placed in a line, the T3 is the main place the modified navigation button, and already around in circles are the remaining buttons. The navigation button has become more and has an oval shape, and application buttons are slightly bent. The whole design was similar to the control panel for a gaming console. In principle, sufficiently well thought-out ergonomics, navigation button listens well, and on the application buttons to press has become much easier. All control is implemented on the Pocket PC so that you can operate with one hand.The navigation button is used not only for movement on the menu, but also to run the various functions of an application. For example, if you hold it for 2-3 seconds, then will return to the list of applications. If a Contacts click on the right side of the navigation buttons, then calls the function search, which also can be controlled with a joystick. In that case, if the computer is off, short press the center navigation button will cause information about the date and time. And there are nuances of management in TT3 enough.

In the box

Inside the box, which comes PDA, you can find the standard "palmovsky" cradle connector for the power adapter, in fact, he network adapter cap to protect the screen, two CDs with software (one for Mac, the second - for Windows), two descriptions , stickers, graffiti and warranty. It is unfortunate that on the computer chassis slot No power adapter - will have to carry a cradle or buy a special cable to Palm connector. Instead of the usual clear plastic lid with holes for the buttons, which were completed T and T2, with a new device comes suede "cap" (well, we have no analogue in the language of normal leather screen cover:), which is fastened to the rear of the enclosure. The solution, in my view, questionable, removable plastic cap was still more convenient.

Of text input

Do TT3 no compulsory physical graffiti. Now, as handhelds and Sony, have cars, there is only a virtual handwriting area, which can be both right-and left-hand side of the display for landscape orientation, or at the bottom of the display when you book. Typing in three ways: using the virtual keyboard, using the classical virtual graffiti area (with flash icons on the sides) and with a new three-zone area of ​​graffiti in which to enter numbers, uppercase and uppercase letters, there are separate areas. That is, the choice has just two virtual graffiti area. True, the keyboard is also not one, but in fact five: to enter numbers and special characters for uppercase letters to uppercase and another two for the upper and lower case with the national alphabet. In addition, if needed, you can write and the entire surface of the display, but more on that below.

About the status bar

This is another innovation. For the convenience of all the most commonly used features a computer made by a special panel, called the status bar or status bar. This socket looks like a thin strip at the edge of the screen (the bottom or side, depending on the orientation of the display), and in most applications will not retract. We consider it more closely.

• The first icon in the form of a house - a button to call the application list, pressing it again cyclically switches between categories of applications. Press once - got in common, the second - in the game, and so on, until we returned to the first category. If you click on the icon and hold for a second, then a list of the last six applications. Sound familiar? Very similar to Windows XP:)

• The second icon - this is the standard search function
• The third - to call the application menu
• Fourth - system information. At this function in more detail. If you click on this icon, the screen appears with the following system information: battery level (in percent), free internal memory and external memory card (also in percentage), switch the backlight display and sound mode selection. Brightness switch has 25 positions, which is significantly greater than that of T2 or models from Sony, which is usually 16 levels. Switch is an audio mode will allow the CPC to operate: the user, and vibrorezhime mode without sound.

• The fifth icon - a challenge to the manager of reminders, which contains information about all the reminders, user-defined in the standard PIM-applications (Calendar, Note Pad, Tasks), Word Clock program and recorded with the recorder, Voice Memo.

• Sixth icon - this menu is the wireless Bluetooth. In this menu you can enable or disable the wireless adapter and set the search "sinezubyh" brethren. For example, to connect the "friendly" phone Siemens S55 managed without difficulty.

• The seventh icon - this option is set the ink in any area of ​​the display - a new proprietary feature, which can not boast of computers by Sony and Palm which can rightly be proud of. In this mode, the letters and characters can be entered in any area of ​​the screen - they will be recognized as well as graffiti. In fact, the display turns into a region of graffiti. True, when you enter must comply with certain rules. If you mentally divide the screen into two vertical parts, then the right, you can write numbers, and the left - the capital letters. At the border as these two areas - capital.

• The eighth icon - switch portrait or landscape mode

• Ninth - to display the input area. And when the computer is in the folded state (320x320), the input area is displayed. If you hold the stylus on this icon for a second, then a list of virtual input panel (classic graffiti, graffiti, and three-band keyboard).

List of virtual input panel appears in the lower right corner ...

Because of the presence of a permanent status bar the actual display area is the size of 320h448, not 320x480. However, some programs (Player Kinoma) can not display it, so the movies you watch with a resolution 480h320. In addition, there is no doubt that in the near future there will be programs from third-party manufacturers who will "hide" the status bar by the user.

About keyboard lock

The computer has the keypad is locked. Those who thought that Palm risen to the button "hold (like Sony) I hasten to disappoint - there is no dedicated button to disable the keyboard do not." Software only solution, and should prevent you from accidentally turning on the computer during transport. The menu Prefs / Keylock, you can choose the type of work Block: "never", "switch" (as soon turn off the computer) and in manual mode (lock activated by holding the power button for 2 seconds). After blocking the computer will not respond to keystrokes. To spice up the CCP need to turn on the power and confirm the unlock button on the display.

Tungsten T3: program lock keys - Keylock

This solution loses the above button "hold", because it turns off the computer and listen to music at aktivironnom lock mode with the screen becomes impossible. However, there is an important fact. The emergence of Keylock - already a huge step to the user.

Of iron

Processor

Processor our hero is the same as with most Pocket Pc - Intel XScale PXA processor with a clock frequency of 400MHz.

Memory

Your computer uses 64MB of SDRAM memory, from which the user is available only 52Mb. This is the second handheld computer company Palm, which cnabzhen as bulk memory.

Communication capabilities

TT3 is equipped with wireless Bluetooth Class 1, which allows you to connect to other devices that connect to the Internet using a mobile phone with GPRS, send SMS messages and dial phone numbers from the phone book (if your phone is connected). Connection Manager determines the type of device connected to the Bluetooth-adapter. You can also make wireless synchronization (HotSync) with a desktop computer (if your PC is, of course, there's Bluetooth:).

About battery life

TT3 charging about 2 hours - at least so says instruction to the machine. In reality, to understand charge your T3 or not is impossible. Firstly, there is no light indicating a full charge. If you connect the power adapter, the indicator on the computer will glow green in any case and in 2 hours, and 10. Secondly, the battery indicator in the menu system information reaches 100% within a few minutes, but somehow hard to believe that Li-Ion Polymer battery is recharged in 5 minutes. Through experimental testing we found out that to fully charge your computer is really just two hours. Longer "feeding" has not led to an increase in battery life.The latter was measured by a standard technique in several modes:

• in read mode program MobiPocket Reader with automatic scrolling speeds 26-28 characters per second
• during playback of mp3 files from the memory card program RealOne Player (display off)
• a video playback program Kinoma Player (320x320) test movie with a flow 640Kbit / s of memory.

While working in all modes was measured before the first warning. According to the charging indicator, the first signal of the battery pack comes with a 20% capacity. When compared to T2, while audio playback is exactly the same, but on the part of the video playing and reading rates below T3. The reason is, apparently, quite a powerful processor. That is, if it were possible to force the lower the frequency of the processor! After all, if you think, then, by and large, 400MHz processor such CCP does not particularly needed.

About performance

Productivity at work was measured with a video already have become the standard for HPCru by using the built-in ROM program Kinoma Player. Here and found the first difference of the new player, Kinoma 2.0 from the old 1.5.1. The results did not exceed 100 frames per second, which is two times lower than that of T2. Immediately the question arose: what about the vaunted Intel Xscale with a maximum megahertz? Everything was simple enough. Test Kinoma 2.0 differs from the similar test in version 1.5.1. Put a new player to the old T2 and Tungsten C, to compare the data was not possible. It turns out that version 2.0 is only supported by new palm (Tungsten E and T3). Had to put Kinoma 1.5.1 on a new computer. Only then is given a quite reasonable results. Performance T3 is almost twice higher than that of T2, but 30% lower than that of Tungsten C. Difference between T3 and TC hard to explain - seems to be the same processor and memory is almost the same. It seems that the implementation still varies, and in creating T3 developers somewhere saved. Synthetic test results Benchmark 2.0 show 539%, which is twice his own data for TE.

Pro software

The operating system version of the "third" is the same as that of the "second" - Palm OS 5.2.1, although with slight modifications. First, the changed set of software, stitched into the ROM, and secondly, have changed themselves PIM-program. To be precise, we changed the concept and the name of PIM-apps (contacts, calendar, tasks, memos) - they have become more similar to the corresponding utility Pocket PC. So the program Tasks (formerly To Do List) has acquired a new, similar to the Pocket PC appearance, but the job got time frame. In the Contacts (Address) the opportunity to record several addresses including web, and birthdays are automatically displayed in the Calendar (Date Book). The very same calendar can now display the entire weight of the year, and is very similar to Pocket Pc counterparts. Size of records in the Memo (Memo Pad) is no longer limited to four kilobytes (new limit - 32Kb). In addition, PIM applications can sync with the program Outlook (can not praise the Palm for their attention to multi-million users of the program), and about the Palm Desktop can be forgotten. However, in this case will need to install Microsoft Outlook Conduits with supplied with a computer disk. Do not know the approach the developers Pocket PC? In general, it is not surprising. Software product user chooses, and you become accustomed to Microsoft. Changes affected the programs and Documents-to-Go, which (according to representatives of the developers) can work with Microsoft Office documents without any additional conversion (full native file support). The files can be obtained by mail wirelessly or read from the memory card. Unfortunately nothing is absolutely perfect does not happen - in the testing process sometimes had issues with the display of some office files when reading from a memory card. It seems that these errors Palm eventually fix, just do not need to hurry. So, in Rom sewn following the program. Main: Quick Tour 2.0, Calculator 4.5.2, Calendar 1.0, Contacts 1.0.1, Dialer 2.0.1, Documents-to-go 6.002, Expense 4.5.1, Kinoma Player 2.0, Memos 1.0, Note Pad 2.2.1, Phone Link 1.3, Photos 1.1.0.20, SMS 4.5.1, Tasks 1.0, Versa Mail 2.6.1, Voice Memo 1.2, Word Clock 1.0.2. Multimedia: RealOne Player 1.1.0 System: Card Info 4.5.1, HotSync 5.0, Preferences 1.3 Additional software: BlueBoard, BlueChat, Palm Reader 1.2.8, Palm Web Pro - web browser, Adobe Reader, Java Micro Edition - for run java applications, PowerOne Calculator, Kinoma Producer 2.0 - a program to convert movies into MPEG-1, QuickTime, AVI into a format understandable to Kinoma Player and toy Handmark Solitaire.

Of Russification

Localization program was MacCentre PaPiRus 2003, which enables you to work with the Russian language, adapting the system installation PDAs for Russia and Russian software recognizes handwriting. In addition, first implemented Russification of the virtual keyboard. During testing on our guinea was installed lightweight version without interface translation, and embedded applications. Complete edition localization has been released, Mobility MakTsentr Elaborations on Friday, October 24. The new version of the program:

Treo trio

The most important of the "arts" is now a conversation. Intercultural communication are the most needed for success in life and business. Before high-tech equipment manufacturers faced with the task to simplify communication and make it universally accessible and fast. So come into our lives smartphones and communicators, which combine the functions of a PDA and cell phone. Known to many Nokia 9210 and the Kyocera QCP 6035 can already be attributed to first-generation model, which is extremely interesting, but expensive to become a hit. Currently, the main producers of handheld computers are working, so that as efficiently as possible and organically "write" information and voice wireless technology into their products. For example, a new device from Palm, Inc. developed with an emphasis on a permanent job with email, but, unfortunately, to call with this device you can not. By the way, it has received FCC approval in August, but for some reason its formal presentation has been postponed until next year. i705, namely it refers, delivery has to replace Palm'am series VIIx. However, under the prevailing conditions in the company of Palm, the device may remain on the shelf indefinitely. RIM has just thinks of how to add voice capabilities to their wireless devices BlackBerry, mail-in GPRS-2.5-generation networks in Europe. While they were contemplating Handspring, Inc. introduces a new line of mobile devices called Treo. By the way, this is the second attempt of the company to issue such a versatile device. The first swallow was VisorPhone - Snap Springboard-module, which allows you to turn handheld Visor into a cell phone. Soon the company's representatives had to admit that the first attempt proved to be lumpy. Sales volume of the device were much below the expected level. On sale at a price of $ 300, VisorPhone been marked down several times, and participated in advertising campaigns as a free application. Nevertheless, the development of software for VisorPhone put the main building block in the foundation of the project Treo. By the way, Handspring is already planning to change the discount VisorPhone on Treo. We shall see.

A little history

Information about the company Handspring is working on a device that can compete with the leading smartphones and communicators, thanks to its design and good value for money ", was leaked to the news sources in August. Then it was reported that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the production of two black and white wireless devices. However, Handspring was outraged by leaks, and the next day it was reported that this approval is temporarily withdrawn. Thus, access to all information and photographs was blocked before the official presentation of new products. Then, it was reported that the company asked the FFC to withhold approval until October 15. However, since the advent of this information, the mobile community has expressed serious interest in the devices and was looking forward to their formal presentation, which, as promised, took place in mid-October. Despite the fact that now the information about the Treo 180 available on the official website of the company Handspring, to see firsthand the device to very few people had a chance.It is expected that the Treo k180 and Treo g180 will be available immediately after the new year, and a third color model, Treo 270, will be released only in the middle of next year.

Now for the facts

So, your Treo Handspring company managed to combine everything necessary for modern mobile user - mobile phone, electronic pocket organizer and function navigation on Web. The new hybrid less Visor'a and rival devices such as Kyocera Smartphone. Note that its tentative price is acceptable. Treo k/g180 will cost about $ 400 with a connection to the network. A color model Treo 270, you'll have to wait a little longer, will cost approximately $ 600. Why did the new smartphone is much cheaper than similar competitive products? Perhaps the answer to this question may give engineers the French company Wavecom, which developed new products for the wireless module the size of a matchbox. It is with the help of a pocket computer has become more and perform functions of a mobile phone. In addition, the role played by the fact that much at the heart of this device was taken by his predecessor-VisorPhon 'a. About him we talked a little higher. After the appearance of a new device on the Stanford Palm User Group interest in him only grew. And those who had a chance to see him were surprised priyatno. First of all, a few words about the design. As it turned out, the GSM-phone + PDA is really a miniature. Compared with the Palm Vx, Treo shorter and narrower, but the truth, thicker. Handspring designers can only applaud - to fit so much in such a small form-factor! Note that, despite the size, quality and functionality are expected to be high, that's twice as nice. Treo will appear in two variations - k180 and g180. Unlike models - in the process of entering information. k180 has a small keyboard, a la Blackberry, which used to be a few minutes. g180, in turn, has a familiar Palm-device area of ​​graffiti. Treo as a phone is a dual-Mobile with support for voice dialing and a full complement of standard features: a list of calls, built-in phonebook, directly from which we can produce a set of numbers, etc. Initially, smart phones will only work on GSM networks. During subsequent upgrades they will be able to support GPRS-protocol. Now the company's engineers working on a CDMA-version of the Treo, which will focus mainly on the United States. As organizer Treo - a typical Palm. It will work on Dragonball VZ 33MHz processor and memory have 16MV. Among the built-in software applications: a diary (Date Book Plus), phone book - an improved version of the application address (PhoneBook), business (To Do List), notebook (Memo Pad), and others. The smartphone runs on the Palm OS, which means that it will be possible to upload all applications developed under it. In addition, a brand new Treo is possible to lose all the information with other Palm-device. If we talk about communication capabilities cmartfona, it is worth noting the speed and ease of wireless sending short text messages and e-mail. And thanks to the browser Blazer, which is an integral part of this machine, the user will be able to wander through the global network. Moreover, these walks are not restricted to sites optimized for mobile devices. This browser has received a prize as the best of its kind, will allow the user to view PC-familiar sites. The only difference is that the owner of the Treo will receive a black and white image. Should not be considered Treo as a variation on the theme Visor'a. This is totally new and first of its kind device offered by Handspring. Despite the fact that an experienced user will find similarities with the VisorPhone, innovation, perhaps, be more.For example, this device does not have the usual expansion slot Springboard. Here are some distinguishing features of Treo:

• scroll wheel, called Jog Rogger
• Time running conversation - about 2 hours of standby time - about 72 hours
• Charging a completely discharged battery takes 1:00
• built-in vibrator
• no cradle, which is replaced by a charging cable and synchronization
• IR port located on the top of the device
• telephone and computer parts organizer can turn on and off independently of each other
• opening / closing Treo leads to automatic on / off PDA
.

Objectively judge the work of the new smartphone will only be possible after it becomes available to the masses. So it remains content with only that information which does not regret sharing Handspring, Inc.

In anticipation of Treomfa ...

Trio heads of the company Handspring - Hawkins (Hawkins), Dubinsky (Dubinsky) and Colligan (Colligan) look to the future with optimism. Donna Dubinsky, according to news agency Reuters, confidently announced that the company expects to increase revenues in the second half of next year. And Handspring is 100 percent know what actions in this regard are most effective. Big hopes are pinned on a new line of Treo, after formal submission which, Handspring stock rose markedly. Edd Colligan said that revenues from sales of smartphones will be in the millions, because it is "extremely exciting" device. Sources, Materials:

Palm Tungsten E: for those who like to count money

If you've ever traveled by plane, you probably know that the most expensive seats in first class, and the cheapest - in the economy (charter flights I did not take into account:). You need an exquisite dinner or drinks during the flight, and you're willing to pay for it - perhaps in the first class, and if you have more modest needs - your place in the economy class. There service is worse, and the menu is not as varied as in the first, but is not the case. The main thing is that you, as well as first class passengers, flying on the same plane and, finally, safely reach their destination. Likewise is the case with handhelds. The company makes different Palm PDAs. For those who want a faster processor, more memory and wireless communication interface is the Tungsten T3 (TT3), for the more modest needs - cost-effective solution - Tungsten E (hereinafter - TE). But the "budget" does not mean bad. Remember about the plane? The main thing that you fly:)

Design

Cost-effective solution series Tungsten, PDA with index E, unlike its more expensive counterparts does not have overtaken the gate and looks a lot like PDAs Palm 500 series. Remember the 505 and 515 models? Only the style of a modern - smooth lines and no sharp corners. Housing new items made of silver material and feels very much like aluminum. However, I have a great suspicion that, as a composite material of plastic stands, however, a very high quality and durable. But that inserts on the upper and lower ends of the casing are made of plastic, no doubt. The dimensions of this handheld little more than everyone else in the series Tungsten - 115mm long and 79mm in width, but the thickness of the smallest in the family - just 12.7mm. Weight in this case is 131g. Just as computers are 500-series machine sits in your hand as poured, although slightly worse than the T2 or T3. On the front panel, directly below the display is a physical area of ​​graffiti. And just below it four application buttons and a navigation key, is almost the same as the T3, just a little smaller and pokvadratney. On the top panel is a slot for SD / MMC card with support for SDIO, so you can use peripherals that format. There is also the IR port, headphone jack and power button. At the ends of the PDA is not placed in any government. On the right side by "integrated stylus holder, and the left - to mount a protective cover. Perot Tungsten E, unlike other PDA stylus in this series is not telescopic (sliding) design and a little shorter. Its upper part unscrew it, and underneath is a thin plastic needle to press the reset button, which can be found on the rear panel. There's also placed the speaker. Hole for the reset button could be done and more. It is clear that during normal use need to overload does not occur too often, however, during testing, is fraught with all sorts of surprises, the procedure of untwisting / twisting of the stylus is tiring. Protective removable cover that covers the screen news, obviously borrowed from the good-old models of the 500-series. Just made it in black and gray in tone with the body. Actually, you should recognize that the Tungsten E has inherited much from the legendary "ancestors". However, there was his "relationship" with the later TT and TT2. But such a permanent attribute of Palm-like computers Universal Palm Connector can not look - it really is not. Stead TE cnabzhen connector standard mini-USB, as well as a port for connecting a network adapter. Cheated model and cradle. True, to worry about it not particularly worthwhile. Although those for whom the TE will not be the first machine may periodically have a desire to "hot-Sinco to determine the CPC to" crib "... This is the second computer is a family of Palm, which is equipped with standard USB-connector. The first was the Sony UX50. Likely to be caused by such a move savings. But it seems to me that here we can speak about the trend: vendors move to ordinary USB-connector, having forgotten about the special Palm or Sony connectors. Decision is likely correct, a PDA - it is the same external device, camera and peripherals can be connected via USB and wirelessly. Only here the wireless interface (besides the usual infrared, of course) from Tungsten E, because of its budget, no. Most convincingly about the "social class," says packing CCP, which is a plastic blister, like the first Zire - camyh inexpensive handhelds in PDA history. The package includes TE AC adapter, USB cable, 2 CD ROM with software for both Mac and Windows, the protective cap and paper description.

Iron

Processor

Budget model - the budget processor. True, not Motorola, but one of a family of Texas Instruments - OMAP 311 clocked at 126MGts.

Memory

Computer is equipped with 32MB SDRAM-memory, from which the user is available only 28.8 MB. Increase may be due to SD-card format, which supports the Tungsten E.

Display

Y TE beautiful high-contrast display with transflective backlit. Others seem to already do.According to the magazine "Consumer: computers and software, which has developed a special, original method of measuring the quality of displays, handheld computers, the maximum brightness of the matrix Tungsten E was 86.5 cd/m2. This is 10% brighter than the recently tested T3. For comparison, the closest in brightness to the Tungsten E are the HP iPAQ h1945 and Sony PEG-NZ90. This is certainly commendable that the display of the budget Palm'a such as bright as that of supernavorochennoy Conki, but it is not clear why. In fact, the brighter the display, the less battery life, and this PDA is created in order to work, work and work ... As with all the latest models from Palm, backlit display our hero does not turn off. Her minimum level of brightness quite high - 21.5 cd/m2 (= Rover PC P3). This level is quite enough for comfortable operation in any ambient light. The display provides high contrast image, as in the office or on public transport or on the street. Typically, a transflective display with the work on the street, the situation is not very good, but Tungsten E in this regard was a pleasant exception - a contrast with the strong sunlight of about 3.5, which is even better than the TT3. Yes, yes, the display Tungsten E is more suitable for outdoor use than the matrix naneshney flagship model. And it is frankly happy:) The brightness changes in 16 "steps."

Multimedia

Microphone in our guinea unavailable. Of all the multimedia widgets, there is only a headphone jack, but mono speaker on the rear panel. The speaker is, frankly, so-so, aesthetes immediately recommended to buy headphones. Included software has a player Kinoma Player 2.0, and RealOne MP3 Player, so listen to music and watch video on a typewriter can be.

Keypad Lock

This PDA has a function key lock. About it, we talked in some detail in the review of T3. One has only to note that when the keypad is locked the display is switched off and the computer stops working. So no book to read or listen to music.

Communication capabilities

According to the communications part of the new computer does not cilen. Because the model budget, then about any Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapters are not talking. And because the computer is denied and the Universal Palm Connector'a (palmovy modem is now not connected), the only way a wireless connection - it was a good slow-IR. Not a lot, but "what do you want for 30 cents":) However, the slot PDA that supports SDIO, you can connect a Bluetooth-module on the card, but it's going to cost some money.

Runtime

As is the case with TT3, it is impossible to understand the TE been charged or not. True, the situation is even worse than the T3. If he still has a no indicator, our hero is nothing like a trace. Understand the charges whether your computer can only turn the display back and look at the battery icon. A small recommendation - put the CPC on the night of charging. Then in the morning you just put it in his pocket ready to everything fresh TE. Real-time charging - about 2,5 hours. Battery life was measured by a standard technique in several modes:

Prepare sleighs in summer

This summer dawned devastatingly hot. Business activity decreased, and the first surrendered to the parliamentarians, retiring in a lengthy and well-paid holiday. Many businessmen have begun seeing immense beaches, emerald lagoons, palm trees and cypresses. However, one industry, which the summer - not summer, and the heat does not cause interference, in Russia there. As you might guess, it's telecommunications. Last summer on the field financial groups combined, concentrated and hard-fought for the redistribution of metropolitan and regional markets, and the activity around the cellular red-hot environment, like a cyclone from the Sahara. Manufacturers of subscriber terminals were also unable to relax and fall into seasonal slumber. Competition can not relax for a minute, forcing vendors to continuously update the model line. In July-August, Motorola and Samsung provided new devices that will enable them to strengthen their presence in this sector of the cellular market. The most ambitious plans for a Korean company. At the presentation of the general director of the Moscow representation of Samsung Dong Joo Lee stated the problem of their subordinates: push terminals in the sector of the three leaders of Ericsson. Do marketers have Samsung and strategic objectives - Don Joo Lee hopes that a year or two in the minds of Russians, Samsung and Sony catch up, as two brand-leading digital technology. I note that about a year ago, the principles of segmentation of range of most manufacturing companies were unified, and the unwritten legislator was Motorola. In line with the principle of segmentation, it identified four sub-segments: consumer-grade devices (mass, economy class), business-class machines, devices under the theme "Fashion" and the apparatus for the Pioneers, fans of technical innovation. However, such a strict division does not mean that in a single sub-sector manufacturer can produce 2-3 models, differentiating features. For example, Motorola offers two new Economy Class Talkabout 191/192. What the producers have proposed a subscriber? First, all devices, regardless of class, have the support of the WAP. But today only a few models offer work on a protocol WAP (v.1.2). This means that trading and banking transactions with the proper protections are not satisfied. On the other hand, manufacturers of AT has finally paid attention to the technology SATK, embedding its support (class3 / class2) in most models. It is on this basis we can already implement procedures to secure financial transactions. Secondly, it should be noted increased functionality models. Voice dialing and voice control, voice recorder, organizer - these features and capabilities can boast not only a model of business-class and lower level. New models support many functions and services of GSM phase 2 + - for example, such services as conference calling with which you can arrange a conference call with five subscribers. From the perspective of a corporate customer service is extremely helpful and provides some alternative trunking. Yes, and for the mass subscriber conference calls today, one year ago was much more attractive and easier to understand than the controversial WAP, which marketers cracked incessantly, is clearly heating up interest in the service maloaktualnoy. However, services that have real practical value, has reached the consumer with a clear delay. But as they say, better late than never. Here, domestic customers carried. Only competition makes the Russian operators to implement this or that service. If in August, Bee Line GSM network was launched to provide conferencing services ($ 2.5 per month), then a month later began offering a similar service and MTS.Interestingly, when the Russian subscribers to obtain access to conference calls, if VimpelCom postponed its delivery? And finally, work with digital information. Here, to paraphrase one of the classics, we can say that the technology of GPRS, which is so long spoke producers, is still far from full realization. In fact, the company plans to start mass production of most antibodies with GPRS support is scheduled for March quarter. However, today the release of mainly produced by a single model. And the producers do not speak about the full GPRS, but only on the AT type B, and then only with the possibility of mode 3 / 1 or 4 / 1. Here we note another aspect. It is no secret that the producers are cunning, when lead time in different modes. These figures, of course, valid for the mode of voice communication. But the data transfer process to be three time slots, which reduces the given time has tripled. If we consider that information processing processor consumes extra energy, the numbers that determine the mode of data exchange, will receive very comforting. A full-fledged GPRS - seven time slots for the exchange of information - yet just out of reach. It is no secret that the processors having the desired performance (for the mode of information processing in the 7 time-slots) on the market there. However, the consumption of power does not suit designers AT. As a result, none of the manufacturers did not dare to enter the market model weighing about 170 - 200 grams, which is due to the appropriate processor and the battery would fully realize the possibilities inherent in the GPRS. Therefore take the liberty to assume that manufacturers a full AT mode GPRS, despite a broadcast statement, the flow of handouts and timid attempts to bring new models of class B (3 / 1), while it is rather desirable tomorrow, rather than actual today! In this review we have included consumer-grade models and models of luxury.

Motorola Talkabout 191

In this segment of the Russian cellular market position of Motorola's most powerful and have very strong reputation. Models M3hhh in the past two years have been bestsellers not only in Russia but, perhaps, in Europe. Model Talkabout 191 miniature and surprisingly light, only 80, she as much as 27 grams lighter than its nearest rival on the Nokia 3310. These parameters yesterday could boast only a model of luxury. Despite the miniature size, it has a large five-line display, a good time, talk time / standby, and a wide range of functions. Here we note voice control, the ability to send group SMS, Animated SMS. To conserve battery life can be programmed on / off the phone for hours. Talkabout 191 - High-quality low-cost handset likely to appeal to customers who value a stable job and do not require functional redundancy.

Motorola Talkabout 192

This unit is likely to highlight the upcoming season - a model of economy-class technology to support GPRS. For its owners work on the Internet will become much more efficient. In Talkabout 192 has support for most services and functions, but thanks to the GPRS phone, a number of new features. Firstly, it is SMS-chat - exchange of SMS messages in real time. In fact, a relationship that many have already mastered through the Internet, but now the dialogue is available mobile subscriber. In addition, opening the notebook Talkabout 192, the owner will see at once labeled those numbers whose owners at the moment connected to the network and can lead SMS-chat. Another possibility, which appeared due to GPRS, - network games. In real time you can fight against a particular partner or a computer. But this service must support the operator. The device also allows you to create and maintain a standard SMS-message, for example, a letter template.For music fans have the opportunity to download two favorite tunes. If we talk about design features, the Talkabout 192 - this is one of the first Motorola models with built-in antenna. Bad contrasting four-line display. Here we note the ability to view text SMS-messages on the screen in an enlarged scale of 1:2, which is convenient for users with impaired vision. The above-mentioned advantages, combined with a reasonable price probably will attract fans of mobile innovation.

Samsung SGH-R200

Its parameters and functionality, this model can be positioned as a tool of economy class. Except, perhaps, the two parameters. Firstly, the display (128x64 pixels.), The size and quality of which is clearly higher than that of some vehicles business class. Second, - the price. It is slightly higher than that of competing models in this class. A magnificent display provides comfort when working with the organizer, which includes a calendar, to-do list, scheduler. When you work with WAP, and R200 support this technology, size and quality of the display even weightier. Specify that the device is not installed the latest version of the WAP-browser and an earlier (v.1.1), which is somewhat limits the ability of the device in the future. In addition to WAP device supports SATK (class3), which started to learn Russian operators and probably will be used in financial transactions carried out via mobile phone. According to RS-232 device can be connected to the PC. Bundled software lets you synchronize the contents of your phone and PIM organizer PC. Price not supplied connection cable - $ 100. The device also supports many of the services and functions of the GSM phase 2 + (conference calling, SMS, Caller ID, call forwarding, etc.). So if you need to have not just on the phone, and multifunction assistant, pay attention to the SGH-R200.

Models of luxury

Motorola V.66. Miniature unit continues the line of Motorola V.36xx, in which the display is mounted in a hinged lid. V.66 supports GPRS, and the reception he can support up to 4 time slots, which is now the maximum possible among the produced models. But opening a real wireless data access, Motorola designers have been faced with the alternative - either to keep the display size of which does not correspond to the problem of displaying web information, or to sacrifice weight and size characteristics and to establish a larger display. Selected the first option - apparently, miniaturization for this model has a priority. V.66 full of features and is clearly aimed at customers who want to emphasize their originality and style. Here and in the choice of backlight (three choices: red, orange and green), and three variants of decorative hinged lid, and 32 versions of personal ringtones and voice recorder that allows you to record 5 blocks comments total duration of up to 180. The model can be used as a basis for a mobile office. To her, you can connect your laptop or PDA to RS-232 or USB. The latter can be met only in innovative phones. In addition, Motorola has prepared for this model cable that lets you attach the phone with a PDA type PALM III / V. In this device, even the most demanding subscriber find everything you need. It's nice that its functional saturation apparatus is simple in mastering, as well as in management.

Samsung SGH-A300

In this model, Samsung continues his favorite line - the phone-book, ie uses a design with a hinged lid. This tiny, feature-rich device immediately attracts the attention of the original solution: on the outside of the flip cover is placed an additional 3-line display. Without opening the phone, the subscriber can control the degree battery charge, signal strength from the base station, and also check the current time and date. When a call appears on the screen number of the caller, and in the presence of this number in the phonebook and caller's name. The main display is large (128x128 pix., 7 lines + 2 lines of icons) and designed to work with textual information. Viewed on this screen, the contents of the WAP-site or sent SMS-message can not straining the eyes. Of the functions to be performed by the apparatus of this class, not only voice control dial and menu functions. For communication with a PDA or laptop provides infrared IrDA. Sync provides job with a calendar, scheduler Affairs in the computer and transport changes in the organizer phone. The machine must appeal to people with a taste that requires the elegant phone of high functionality.

Samsung SGH-A400

The result of competitive companies, manufacturers of cell phones may not be a decrease / increase in share prices, leaving companies with a market or the appearance of another model is easier to 1,5 g, than the competition. Specialists Samsung made a move that suggested itself was a long time and that is called at arm's length. However, the new design solution as simple and obvious, and so stunning. Complex microelectronic stuffing "packed" into the body, styled powder box, red or pearly, and ... turned miracle telefonchik. Obviously, the model focuses on the better half of humanity. This underlines the software, which was introduced in memory of the machine - biorhythm chart, the calculation of excess weight, the table of calories, a calendar of women's cycle. Technical capabilities of the model will satisfy even the most demanding of the fairer sex. SGH-A400 can work with WAP, has an infrared port, a large display (128x96 pixels.) Organizer, the memory 100 rooms, support services and functions of the GSM phase 2 +. Note that reducing to a minimum weight and size characteristics (weight model 80 g), the designers reduced the operating time in standby mode up to 70 hours, forcing possessor "powder-" almost every two days using a battery charger. Without a doubt, the model could become the most popular in the coming season, but its price ($ 390) narrowed the range of possible clients to a business lady and the wives of wealthy businessmen. And sorry, students and housewives would probably not resist the temptation to buy a trendy thing.

Let's compare ...

So you are planning to buy an inexpensive modern cell phone. If we start from prices, T191 variant is optimal. For those who must work with data, we should dwell on the model T192 supports GPRS. However, this model has no interface for PC connection, which limits the functionality. If you select are important display settings, the R200 is clearly preferable. For subscribers who frequently use the organizer on your phone, for sure need to sync with your PC - it is only at R200. However, this model does not allow to connect the car kit, Hands-Free and has a voice dialing control, and menus, and its price is highest. Models of luxury more individual, so we restrict transfer pro and contra. V.66 - the easiest device has three options for the display backlight, support GPRS and enables the USB interface to connect your PC or PDA, the memory unit to 500 rooms, built-in voice recorder with a 180, there is a voice control and a set menu. However, the display V.66 today is too small, no memory organization by groups. A400 - this unit is versatile and will be a magnificent gift to representatives of the better half of humanity. A300 - less like him, there are two displays, the main (large informative) is clearly more attractive than its competitors. This phone's memory can be organized into groups. However, the A300 is limited time in standby mode, no tape recorder, he has no voice dialing control, and menus. To the machine can not connect the car kit Hands-Free. In general, the choice - an individual case, and all the models will find their supporters. Sources, Materials: