CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600

Garmin iQue 3600 - long awaited in the market of PDA based on Palm OS 5 with an integrated GPS-receiver and preloaded navigation software. As a manufacturer of GPS-receivers, Garmin is well proven in the market by releasing a full line of GPS-products of different price levels. With such a vast baggage of technology behind, Garmin has decided to go a little further and create a complete solution for those who are trying to turn a bunch of cheap GPS-receiver + PDA into a fully functional navigation system.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
The first experience of Garmin in the union of the original proven technologies with new features Palm OS 5, it seems, was a success. Designers and programmers Garmin obviously spent a lot of effort to work through constructive and applications of the new iQue 3600. Judging by the concept model shown at CeBIT 2003, we can say that the device is almost ready for production. From working with the iQue 3600 is a very good impression. Fine screen (320 by 480 pixels) with program area graffiti, side scroll wheel, light weight (160 grams) and quality performance. From the GPS: 12-channel receiver, positioning accuracy to 15 meters, folding built-in antenna. PDAs running on ARM-processor.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
Despite the proximity to the antenna GPS, designers managed to place the SD slot on the top panel. It also houses the infrared port and a connector for external GPS-antenna. And rightly so - for an external antenna can actually be needed, for example, in the car. And connect it conveniently just above, not on the side or bottom.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
Of greatest interest is the so-called technology Que - Development Garmin. Que allows you to combine the benefits of Palm OS and GPS-receiver. And it's not only about the trivial inclusion of a number of GPS-applications into the operating system. For example, using standard search Palm OS in the iQue 3600 can search and GPS-points, waypoints (waypoints) and so on.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
QueTrip - application for calculation and display of data on travel: distance, time, stopped time, average and maximum speeds, etc.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
QueGPS - utility for working with GPS-premnikom. Can display the found satellites and display service information GPS.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
Well, finally, a host Map for use with maps MapSource, set to be delivered together with the CCP (North America, the city). Of course, you can not buy the necessary parts of the world in the format of MapSource. Map voice can direct the user along the route, has several modes, including full screen.
CeBIT 2003: Garmin iQue 3600
It is not necessary to use only Que GPS-programs. Integrated GPS-receiver is able to operate in NMEA, which means that most third-party navigation software must operate on the iQue. Site Garmin Developer's toolkit is available to adapt applications for the iQue 3600. Recommended final price in the U.S. is $ 589. According to recent data obtained on the bench Garmin, beginning of sales is scheduled for September 2003. Hopefully, the price of the new Garmin iQue 3600 in Russia will not greatly exceed the price of bundles of Palm + GPS. Also, it is hoped that the device will receive a certificate and clarify the regulations on the use of GPS-receivers in Russia. The authors, translation:

HTC TouchFLO

TouchFLO interface

As we have said, the communicator HTC Touch, a special shell TouchFLO, which should provide a convenient control device without a stylus. In fact, the shell consists of three pages: 1. Multimedia. You can run standard applications, Audio Manager, and the program Photo-Video, which, depending on the selected item, opens the folder with pictures or videos.
HTC TouchFLO
TouchFLO: Multimedia
2. Photo contacts. On this page you can configure 9 contacts to speed dial. If the contact is assigned to an image or picture, it is displayed on the screen.
HTC TouchFLO
TouchFLO: Speed ​​Dial
Also on this page, you can run standard applications: Phone, Call List and Contacts.
HTC TouchFLO
3. Application. On this page are commonly used (according to developers) program. The list of programs is not configurable.
HTC TouchFLO
TouchFLO: Applications
Another possibility is the possibility of the TouchFLO scrolling through pages in Internet Explorer and Word Mobile, as well as scroll through lists, such as contacts, SMS-messages and so on. All this is pretty seasoned Today-plugin, which consists, again, of three pages.
  • Clocks, indicators of missed calls and unread e-mail and SMS / MMS. When you click on the appropriate icon, open standard applications Windows Mobile.
  • HTC TouchFLO
  • Weather forecast for the selected city, with the ability to view forecasts for four days. Unfortunately, no detail of the forecast not only displayed the temperature and precipitation.
  • HTC TouchFLO
    HTC TouchFLO
  • Launcher. You can configure the nine frequently used applications or functions, such as screen rotation, adjustable lighting and so on.
  • HTC TouchFLO

    User experience

    In general, TouchFLO - interesting and nice toy, nothing more. Yes, first impressions of a shell very nice: are leading a finger, everything revolves, is launched. Moreover, no significant "brake" almost no, TouchFLO is very thoughtful only when you run a large number of background applications, it is obvious that the processor has nothing to do with it, affects memory shortage. Convenience TouchFLO - a moot point, enough played enough, a couple of days of work with the Communicator of the shell to forget.By and large it is convenient to use it only for the speed dial, the other features are used quite rarely. The main reason - the inability to customize the program listings. You can certainly use the launcher from the Today-plugin, even though the plugin is also not without drawbacks. It occupies about half of the working area of ​​the screen, while other elements available Today the remaining lower part of the display. If Today-ins do not fit on the remaining half of the page, next to a scroll bar appears. Probably not the best solution. The screenshots below you can see what we mean.
    HTC TouchFLO
    HTC TouchFLO
    Another strange feature TouchFLO - only support the standard, portrait display, it is necessary to rotate the image, like all the charm of the shell becomes inaccessible. Again, small glitch, but the general impression spoils.
    HTC TouchFLO
    Demonstration of TouchFLO (avi, 320 x 240, 7.65 MB)
    Below you can download a video demonstrating the work of the shell TouchFLO.

    Total

    Summarizing, we can assume that the control technology TouchFLO attract primarily users who use the work of mostly standard software Windows Mobile. The new shell quickly, and most importantly did not like the others, "WM to run embedded software. More advanced users TouchFLO, probably quite quickly get tired of all the same realization of the idea, at this stage is not the best. However, let's not forget that this is the first version of this interface, and if you remember, for example, the history of the application Task Manager (X-Button), then we can assume that after a certain time span TouchFLO become really comfortable and sophisticated. Part I: Overview of the communicator HTC Touch. The authors, translation:

    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds

    Camye cheap in PDA history of the Pocket PC from Dell, we have been waiting a long time, since the advent of reliable information about them from unofficial sources. The first rumors started cruising the Internet in the late summer of 2002. They said that Dell Cobiralas release "iPAQ" for $ 250. Indeed. A few months later, in November, the corporation's own after many Anosov showed to the same greedy for sensations IT-press my Axim 5. The presentation was held at the largest exhibition Comdex Fall 2002, where everything is brought to a stand of handhelds (about 400-500 pieces) were immediately snapped up like hot cakes, and turn on the orders lasted for two months. It is known that, and now to buy the U.S. one of the most optimal combination of price-quality "Pocket PC must apply and wait for 1.5 months. Very soon, after two weeks, selling Axim 5 will begin in Russia. Company DellSystems signed a distribution agreement with the concern "White Wind" on the sales of popular handheld machines, on the occasion of which the partners have arranged a press conference yesterday. At this point, we have prepared your own review of "live" Dell Axim 5.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    People who have brought us Dell Axim 5 ...:)
    To buy any of the two available models in the lineup - that same "mythical" younger (Axim 5 Basic) or more advanced older (Axim 5 Advanced) will be no problems in any Moscow store, "White Winds" and his partner, or your local dealer. Not have to wait. Only here the price for Russia, you know, is not the same, that in America, the market is Axim 5 really a revolution. Suggested retail - $ 299 and $ 385 for junior and senior CCP respectively. Although DellSystems believe that at this price, given the functional typewriters, they will have no equal. And I must say, it is believed not covsem reasonably. Apparently, the machine from Dell will have to compete with brand Otechestvennaya Rover, namely Pocket P3 and P5. True, the assurances of the "White Wind", lower-end models of hardware specifications are not competitors to each other and respect their elders, then after the Dell Axim on the market RoverPC P5 in the company's network will fall in price by $ 40-50. In general, we were on the operating table were two cars, which we shall now dissect, sometimes resorting to comparisons to the Rover P3. Let us proceed ...

    We meet on clothes ...

    Picking up a Dell Axim X5, once you feel that the handheld is much superior in size and weight of its closest price competitor. Elder Advanced-model a little easier in this regard, since the more advanced machines traditionally fairly heavy and have a total "figure."
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    On subjective feelings, both models are very similar to Pocket PC hi-end class HP iPAQ 39xx. True, dellovskie cars a little thicker. However, their excessive fullness can be justified for one distinguishing feature - they are both equipped with two expansion slots - the most popular Compact Flash Type II and SD / MMC (though without the support of SDIO). The quest for minimalism makes many PDA makers to abandon the format CF, despite the fact that memory and peripheral devices on its base is now much cheaper, and therefore demanded by users. While the majority shifted to a more compact Secure Digital, Dell contrary fashion trend is ready to sacrifice the most beautiful cars, rather than its functionality. To date, no budget PDA with a CF-slot.So in this respect, the youngest out of competition, and the eldest is a bit like themselves.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    However, with CF-slot with Axim 5 is not all right. The fact is that to get a card from him pretty hard. However, most users do not often pull out the memory of her lair, and therefore a significant drawback is difficult to call. We checked for compatibility with Pocket Card IBM Microdrive 340 MB and MMC (NCP) 64MB. Both Dell quickly and with gusto "swallowed" proposal. So with the expansion of handhelds problems should arise.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Hold the PDA in the hand are not too comfortable. Perhaps it's not so much in weight units (nearly 200), but in their size - 128 x 81,5 x 18 mm. This shortcoming is somewhat offset by rubber inserts on the sides of computers that do not allow them to slip out of hands.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Rubber flank ...
    The screen on both models transflective resolution of 320x240 pixels, like expensive Pocket PC (iPAQ 5450 like in the picture), that is perfectly readable in the room and not the best works on the street. Diagonal - 3.5''.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    iPAQ and Dell Axim 5
    If you compare the display Dell Axim X5 c roverovskim (RoverPC P3), then the odds would be clearly in favor of the latter. True, there have to say that RoverPC P3 greater than the maximum brightness, although the practical need for this. Inside is enough low, and with natural light and Dell in general, "friendly".
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Rover PC P3 and the Dell Axim 5
    Looking at the device, I wanted to listen to them. It is clear that the occupation is a thankless task and it is unlikely practically useful, because most PDA built in speaker will compete unless China's cheap tape recorder, but still ... Fears were justified: Axim 5, "croaks" at maximum volume as a real sympathy Boxing. With regard to the sound outputted by the output for headphones, it is quite acceptable quality. In the course of the experiment revealed that the designers find a good spot for a nest under the "ears": it is located, in contrast to other PDAs on the top end machines. So use the Dell as a mp3-player convenience. Oh, and battery capacity allows, but more on that below.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Separately, the stylus would like to mention Dell Axim X5. We found him to be extremely comfortable and stylish. Due to atypical design pen, unlike most machines, excellent grip. Pocket for a PDA stylus on the side, so to remove it will not have to turn the handheld.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Set of "feathers" for the Axim 5 ...
    Speaking of accessories. Them for the Dell Axim 5 is produced in abundance. Tried not only to third-party, but the developer. Thus, complete with machine will be supplied branded pouch-bag, which is really hard to call egronomichnym: a prisoner in his "hug" the handheld is unlikely to fit in a standard pocket, and quickly retrieve it and see that something will not work. The standard cover is only good as a coffer for the transport of the CCP. True, there is a Dell and a second, more successful version, but for the money. As explained at the press conference, representatives of companies of various small things for the Axim 5 in Russia you can buy at an amount that is twice the price of the PDA. That is what will deliver the "White Wind" for domestic users:
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Let's go in order. With respect, the cradle, then it is not in the standard delivery model junior-level price. Instead, he invited USB-cable, but if necessary it is clear you can buy. Especially since it looks very sipatichno. Especially when a perfectly polished steel surface, made in the form of a hemisphere, light up bright blue Dell shaped as letters during podzryadki or synchronization.
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    The battery in both models interchangeable, which is a big plus, because statistics such elements is enough for about 2 years. Another advantage of "source of life" Axim 5 is their capacity - 1440mAch that almost vpoltora times greater than that RoverPC P3 or HP iPAQ H1910. This is not to affect the Runtime, which is considered in two handhelds is about 6-8 hours. At maximum load (video playback at maximum brightness), this figure falls by almost half, which, incidentally, is also quite good. In addition, Dell offers an option to purchase the battery capacity 3400mAch, which, as you might guess, after some simple mathematical calculations, allows the computer to work approximately 20 hours. Perhaps, the figure turns out to be wrong in practice, given the traditional over-the producers of this parameter. But rest assured, even 15 hours - this is a good indicator for the Pocket PC. Also in the cradle has a separate slot for charging additional battery so that the convenience of this procedure problems should arise. Followed by the keyboard. These useful accessories, of course, sold separately.For your PDA Dell offers two versions - a mini keyboard to enter text on the weight of thumb:
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    ... And full-size folding keyboard, which is suitable for use on hard flat surfaces:
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    Under CF-clot PDA Dell offers two communication cards - Bluetooth or Wi-fi:
    Dellovye PDA: Axim 5 going to "blow up" the Russian market for handhelds
    In the near future, Dell promises to deliver to the Russian market GSM / GPRS-module, so that the device can be turned into the phone. While it is only a promise. Know that these accessories still have to go through the Russian certification.

    Hardware

    Senior and junior handheld completely identical in appearance, and even in regard to the hardware they are filling is not too different. The difference this is the clock frequency of CPU and memory and fits into almost $ 100 difference (to be exact difference is $ 86). The eldest is equipped with Intel XScale processor at 400 MHz, 64 MB RAM and 48 MB of ROM-RAM Intel StrataFlash. The junior model is based on the XScale processor 300 MHz and has on board 32, and 32 MB respectively. In the above-mentioned difference includes the cradle, which is devoid of low-end model and the utility of which some of the cast great doubt. Cable because is more transportable and easy to use. Although there is no accounting for tastes.

    Softness

    In the Axim 5 is running Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 with the update EUU3, designed to add something, and something to fix. Detail, but it's nice. By the way, the computers Operating System has a version Premium, that is, the bundle includes a full "set of happiness" from Microsoft: Outlook, Word, Excel, Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, MSN Messenger and other pleasures, friends since childhood. In the setting of Dell Axim X5 can slow it down a processor, putting auto performance. In this case, the CCP itself will determine when to increase the frequency of the processor, and when there is sufficient and minimal. As a result, increase battery life Pocket PC. However, the machine will not be able to disperse, although this option may appear later. An interesting softinok, bundled with Dell Axim X5, it is worth noting Switcher Bar, a sort of simple option WisBar'a possible to view the battery charge level, quick switch to the options of brightness, and naturally, switching and closing running applications. Of course, the utility is not as functional as its illustrious counterpart, but is quite efficient and meet the needs of undemanding users. Also by tradition, handhelds are equipped with a disk with software from other vendors. Among them are basically the demo version, but there are exceptions, namely, full versions of Resco Picture Viewer, IA Presenter, the program for viewing files, Power Point. Of course, a set of software is not impressive, but obviously, the economy has not given opportunities to enrich the collection in full. However, for our country, full versions of programs is not so critical, so that the relative lack of it soon.

    Ran?

    We have already compared different CPC for high-speed indicators, but to gather it all together somehow failed.Now it's time to set the record straight "and". Comparison of handheld devices for high-speed indicators will be conducted in two compartments - the budget (which include 300MHz th Dell Axim X5) and hi-end'ovoy (where the participants listed Dell Axim X5 with a 400 MHz-m "pebble"). Tests conducted on the tradition of using VOBenchmark 2.12. In bold the best result in each of the subtests. To begin, define the champion in the budget niche:
    Test / Model Toshiba e310 (Strong ARM 206 MHz) Toshiba e330/e335 (XScale 300 MHz) ViewSonic V35 (XScale 300 MHz) Dell Axim X5 (XScale 300 MHz) Normal
    CPU Floating Point 8.02 9.49 6.34 9.50
    CPU Integer 15.50 20.11 13.30 20.08
    Graphics Bitmaps BitBlt 56.86 56.41 16.66 36.69
    Graphics Bitmaps StretchBlt 0.35 0.30 0.50 0.20
    Graphics Filled Ellipse 2.24 2.14 0.85 1.96
    Graphics Filled Rectangle 7.76 6.52 1.02 6.35
    Graphics Filled Round Rectangle 1.72 1.32 0.66 1.33
    Memory Allocation 8.69 9.53 6.42 6.31
    Memory Fill 0.39 0.95 0.85 0.94
    Memory Move 0.74 0.36 0.30 0.38
    Text 3.77 3.88 2.20 3.50
    As can be seen from the table above, Dell Axim X5 Basic can not be called shustryagoy, but at the same time lag from the leader of each test is small. Moreover, the strengths of the dips speed in which whatever subtest is not observed, and therefore handheld in most cases to fully carry out the tasks entrusted to it by the owner. Now let's see what happens in the camp of the more expensive PDAs:
    Test / Model ASUS MayPal A600 (XScale 400MHz) Toshiba e740 (Xscale 400MHz) HP iPAQ 3950 (XScale 400 MHz) Dell Axim X5 (XScale 400MHz) Normal Fujitsu-Siemens Pocket LOOX 600 (XScale 400 MHz)
    CPU Floating Point 12.63 12.62 12.68 12.20 9.50
    CPU Integer 26.97 26.91 26.73 24.14 26.52
    Graphics Bitmaps BitBlt 28.48 78.11 26.02 57.52 52.16
    Graphics Bitmaps StretchBlt 0.85 2.34 0.78 0.34 0.78
    Graphics Filled Ellipse 1.06 2.42 0.50 2.53 2.03
    Graphics Filled Rectangle 1.33 6,47 2.02 6.72 6.12
    Graphics Filled Round Rectangle 1.97 1.08 0.43 1.90 1.48
    Memory Allocation 11.05 11,76 11.66 10.47 10.43
    Memory Fill 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.94 0.88
    Memory Move 0.36 0.38 0.42 0.39 0.38
    Text 3.87 3.31 2.93 3.92 4.60
    It is clearly seen that the highest Dell in nearly all the tests loses its more expensive competitors, but this loss, as in the case of the younger model is very relative. Machine is not far behind. Axim 5 shows the best performance when working with graphics, but the overall speed of the results fall short of the leader - Toshiba e740. However, to make the CPC to work harder you can. For this case, there are program-overclockers, review of which lie in our Library. But this is undocumented features. Originally older machine is very weak in speed for comparison with similar, although the lack of brightens up the lower price. The same can be said about the younger model. Finally an interesting detail.Dell has launched relatively recently to equip its newest handheld PXA255 processor instead of an old PXA250. Thus, the bus frequency increased to 200MHz, which eventually according to preliminary reviews to increase in the overall performance of 25%. How to find out which processor is in buying a typewriter? Very simple! There are two ways: either go to the \ My Documents \ SysInfo and view the file SysInfo.txt, or visit the tab "System Information" in "Start-Settings-System". If there is listed "CPU: Intel (r) PXA250 400Mhz B2", then there is nothing particularly enjoy - you have an old processor with a 100MHz-th bus, but if your stepping "stones" is equal to C1, then you PXA255, and, consequently, the speed of your machine for a quarter more.

    And you do not want to see off ...

    Let's sum up. Thus, the new Pocket PCs from Dell actually combine a low price, even by the standards of the Russian market and greater functionality. How to look Axim 5 on the background of its nearest competitors? Substantial weight and size, of course, not the best news release from the CCP-regime. However, the size compensates for the presence of two expansion slots - the inexpensive Compact Flash Type II, which, in addition to expandable memory, you can use to connect various devices on the cards (cameras, GPS-receivers, Bluetooth-cards) and Advanced Secure Digital (unfortunately, without the support of SDIO ). The latter just serve to add a few megabytes of superfluous to the "strategic reserve" on board the handheld. The rest of the device is not much different from the typical Pocket Pc so-called middle-level price. Axim 5, with all their strengths and weaknesses - a very ambitious machine. By the end of 2003, they intend to win as much as 15-20% of the Russian PDA market, which is projected to retailers, will have to grow twice as much. Including due to "efforts" of these handhelds. (That is, in total this year are going to sell nearly 120,000 PDAs in general, of which 20% want to take Dell'y). Their price for obrzanomu expression of Head of Marketing "White Wind" will be "hence safety fuse, which" explode "sleep the domestic market. Let's see ... PS Thank firm BelSoft for the provided equipment. The authors, translation:

    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes

    History repeats itself. Moreover, repeated intentionally. Holding a new top-end PDA HP iPAQ 214, once it becomes clear - the company's marketers have tried to do everything to make it so, but also to maintain continuity. And how could it be otherwise? HP 4700 was very popular, but had some shortcomings, which sought to eliminate. Have it, we'll try to find out, each for himself, naturally. HP iPAQ 4700 reigned for a long time, as many as in 2005. Tsarstvuya, he had no rivals in versatility: the biggest screen, the longest battery life, metal body, an innovative management system (touch pad), the possibility of upgrading the operating system from 2003 to 5.0 and then to an informal six-ku (though not without some difficulties, but that worked too!), graphics accelerator, and the best processor available. Follower waiting. Welcome, beating heart - oh, what, what new and wonderful will come up in HP? It seems that almost all of the ideal of the 47th. Is it that there is no official Windows Mobile 6, but did not provide support SDHC yet. And here he came. Came and proved that all new - is well forgotten old. And it is not always worth the rush to the store for purchase at a breakneck pace, waiting for miracles and magic.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Recall that the HP iPAQ 4700, and not only he but also many models from HP, manufactured in conjunction with HTC, which is now itself "with a mustache, successfully producing communicators, and although it retained the manufacture of devices for other brands, but not in amounts as previously. And then HP got down to business on their own, projecting first HP iPAQ 114, and then his brother - 214. And, as paradoxically, be regarded as the 214th successor to the 114th will be far more logical than the descendant of 4700. After all, in fact iPAQ 214 - the same 114, but with a VGA-screen. But we have something to users, what's the difference who was there at some factory assembled and designed by our favorite toys? We expect innovation, we expect progress. So where is he, progress iPAQ 214 compared to the iPAQ 4700? Let's face it.

    Design and Ergonomics

    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 4700 and HP iPAQ 214
    The first thing that you notice - the size of the unit. He put it mildly, the big, bulky look, though its dimensions virtually identical to 4700. Most of the front panel has four-inch screen, and under it - yes, a miracle happened! - Rather than showy, but inefficient touchpad and "pimple", replacing the button, the normal buttons and dzhoypad! Hurrah? Of course, cheers. What a grand piano - with no buttons? Convenience of their difficult to overestimate, and lack of it - is what keeps many from buying the 4700. But there has not been without incident: the joystick frankly too small, and the "up" to press at all unrealistic: it is located flush with the plastic panel.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Novelty is much thicker and heavier than its predecessor, although the 47th made the metal, and the 214th - from plastic. Hide the disappointment is difficult, although the materials used for the 214th, very good. However, any plastic, even the best quality, looks and feels quite differently, such as metal.
    Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "width =" 400 "height =" 234 "/>
    In comparison with the now fashionable iPhone, our hero and looked at all eccentric uncouth huge brick.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP 4700, HP 214 and iPhone
    With the size and thickness of the device developers are frankly too clever by half. Judge for yourself: the usual PDA with VGA-screen without the built-in GPS / camera / GSM. Where did such size and thickness? Why? Four-inch screen was quite happy in dimensions of 4700. Battery size is the same. Similar-sized 214th approaching the smallest computer to date, for example, Sony UX. Agree, but their functionality will be to put it mildly, richer. But back to our plastic hero. Front panel - black, glossy, reminiscent in appearance and to touch the piano. Fingerprints are on it, but her hands do not slip - try to hold his hand with a push on, say, the polished table, or on the piano, and you'll understand what I mean.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Above the screen in the center of the logo HP, serving speaker for VoIP-telephony (the microphone is located on the bottom, along with other connectors). Right - a power button and indicator of wireless connections and charging. The indicators are very bright in the dark frankly annoying.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    The rear half of the body is made of the now fashionable plastic coated with Soft Touch. She is also black. Between the lid, which hides under the battery, and the upper part there is a gap. Maybe it was left intentionally, to make it easier to remove the lid, but looks like an obvious omission. Above the gap is the speaker. As is the case with the younger brother - iPAQ 114 - the controversial decision, because whether it's watching a movie or a GPS-navigation, the sound will come from the owner of the machine.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    The PDA is made slightly tapered to the rear, so it seems that he can slip out of hands, but it is not. Soft Toch-plastic downright "clings" fingers, and dropped the PDA can only be special. Fingerprints remain on the newfangled surface, remove them by hand or with a dry cloth is extremely difficult. Now it is difficult to say how durable Soft Touch: skeptics assert that the angles protrutsya pretty quickly. Well, time will tell. Let's see what's located under the lid of our grand piano lacquer. And then the battery is 2200 mAh! As far as him missing, read in a separate chapter. In size it is the same as the battery hx4700 (1800 mAH), both batteries are interchangeable. The cover is removed from the force, in the distant future, if you often want to change the battery, can play. On the new machine, it sits tight, squeak is not observed, as well as throughout the body.
    Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "width =" 400 "height =" 300 "/>
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    At the bottom end we will have one more pleasant surprise - it's a standard connector miniUSB, the same as with most smartphones, cameras, etc., that is always and everywhere you can find at least a cable to recharge the PDA (although , charging from the miniUSB lasts about 6 hours), to throw him some information from someone else's computer.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Interface connector to our deepest surprise, changed. That is the old charging cradle will not work.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Connectors: left HP 214, HP 4700 right
    Party's policy on this issue was completely incomprehensible until now, digging in the interactive instructions to the CCP on the PDA (called the iPAQ Quick Tips), we found an interesting page, lifts the veil of secrecy:
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Next to the connectors was found minijack 3.5 "headphone jack. Finally, HP moved this miserable hole away from the pencil-box stylus! Now stick the stylus in the headphone jack, as it liked to do many owners of old," AIPAC, "would be extremely difficult. For the better change stylus, at least outwardly. Now this is not a faceless black cheap plastic, and steel rod with a gray plastic top and soft enough not to scratch the screen tip. on the convenience, he pulls the "Quartet", but feels that it is easy to break as, for example, the FS Loox - "broken stylus" often forced the owners of 720 and other models run on the shops in search of spare "sticks." Perot iPAQ 214 and thinner stylus 47th, which is very noticeable to the touch. One would think, why does not make it bigger and thicker, because body allows? But no, along with a massive heavy body, we have an aristocratic thin rod.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Continues to please, and the fact that the foam stylus is still in the upper right part of the body.
    Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "title =" HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "width =" 400 "height =" 300 "/>
    There, on the upper end there are two slots for memory cards. Compared with 4700 the phone supports SDHC. Slot for CF is made not so successful as its predecessor. Map pretty much sticks it in the first place. And secondly, to pull it very difficult because of the crude grooves.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Boca devices are not full of buttons. On the left caught on a voice recorder button is located flush with the body. This makes it useless for use as a scroll when reading. On the right - soft reset button. This is key, as is the case with the iPAQ 114, rather than a "hole" as in old AIPAC.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 214: the left end, a key recorder
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 214: right end, key reset
    To sum up the comparison looks a little "newbie" and "old man". iPAQ 4700, certainly looks presentable. Metal enclosures are now "on the horse, it is worth recalling at least the same Nokia 8800 or 6300, or the Apple iPhone, and even Sony Ericsson have already switched to metal phones such as T650. Popular now and thin device, the list above can be repeated. The policy of HP, has issued a plastic tolstyachka as a top model is not very clear and understandable. Features of both models are almost identical at first glance, let's see what someone is better:
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Comparison of characteristics of HP 4700 and HP 214

    Screen

    On the screen you want to stay more because he is one of the "chips" HP. We begin with a brief excursion into the past. Immediately after the exit screen 4700 provoked a storm of debate. His praise, praise deservedly. True, there were judges, who argued that the color reproduction of shades of one color iPAQ 3970 will be better ... But it is minor compared with what happened to the screens later. The first batch had a screen with a really white. A year later, there were 4700 with a pinkish hue, but in the end all of the 47th received the revelation of yellow screens. The vast majority of users left in the dark (it is for the better, people were happy), but many noticed the difference. Incredibly annoying yellowness, the more so that the competitive CPC was not a yellow. This is all to the fact that the 214th screen is very yellow. It is noticeable, even if you do not put a number of other devices.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Just like 4700, HP 214 has a light sensor. Complaints about his work there, the sensor time monitors ambient lighting. With regard to regulation of levels of backlighting, everything remained as before: about thirty levels (they were not recorded steps):
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Minimum backlight level is comfortable for reading in the dark, however, due to different screen structure in the light to make out anything is difficult. And with backlight OFF and did not see anything. I do not accidentally let slip it on the structure of the screen. As soon as the 214th came into my hands, I immediately noted that someone had already stuck it to the screen the film, not some any and Covertec or Brando - in their style of doing rough matte film that does not glare, does not reflect, but at the same time, several blurs the image (compared to the glossy smooth film Onext, XDM). However, after a little research revealed that the film-and no, it's the screen itself is. At the head right there crept the thought that all this is no accident, surely some deep thought spodvigla developers for such a decision. Ideas were born two: first, users no longer need something to glue to the screen - to scratch a matte finish is very difficult, and secondly, with GPS-navigation, or simply by using PDA in bright sunlight the screen should in theory behave very decently . Both ideas can be called fair, because the sun can really be comfortable working with a device that is important, given the approaching summer. Myths propagated on the forums about what to find film for the 214th is unrealistic, since the screen 214th greater than the 47th, are indeed myths. Screen sizes butt for iPAQ 214 and 4700 respectively and 84h64mm 83h63mm. Films from the iPAQ 4700 you can find all sorts and kinds of ridiculous prices. If you stick with the mind - namely, the center of the screen - the gaps above and below would be quite insignificant and not worth discussing. How such a convenient screen is suitable for surfing the net - to solve each individually. Someone will be more satisfied with the iPhone with the smaller screen, but the possibility of finger control, and someone delighted with the stylus and a slightly larger screen. On the question of governance. Screen at the 214th is very hard. If at Tapanui in the central region is not as noticeable then the edges have to dent the stylus on the screen. Recalibration does not help if the calibration touch screen with stylus lightly, the device will offer to pass the re-calibration. In conclusion, a theme you want to draw attention to its location. If 4700 is located exactly on the center, the 214th strongly shifted upwards. Maybe this location has added a sense of the apparatus cumbersome, but in any case, I think readers will agree with me, symmetrical 47th looks much more attractive asymmetric 214th.

    Speed ​​and memory

    HP iPAQ 214 is built on the new Marvell PXA310 processor with 624 MHz. Recall that 4700 was Intel XScale PXA270 processor at the same frequency. If you follow the news that went online recently, you can see what top-end CPU Marvell is not 624, and 806 MHz. For some reason, a top handheld has not received top processor, it's hard to say. Probably because of financial considerations or the lifetime of the battery. Anyway, hope remains that HP is preparing a surprise for fans of the CCP. How realistic is faster or that the processor will help us determine the tests. It is worth mentioning that the iPAQ 4700 is installed Windows Mobile 6.0. Why not 6.1 - the question is no longer with us. Update yet.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 214: the operating system WM6
    Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "width =" 240 "height =" 320 "/>
    HP iPAQ 4700: Informal WM 6.0
    Let's start with life tests: how long it takes to open files?
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Time to open files HP 214 and HP 4700
    The new iPAQ was slightly quicker and smarter. Let us turn to the synthetic test Spb Benchmark.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Now look at the results of the test VSBenchmark. iPAQ 214 left far behind the nearest competitor, and 4700 and completely numb at the end of the list. Unexpected result, is not it?
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Test results VSBenchmark
    What is really different from the brand new AIPAC old man, so is the amount of RAM. If in 4700 it was 128 MB ROM (available 82.59Mb) and 64MB of RAM (57.81 MB available), the 214th has on-board 256MB of storage (ROM), available for use 163.05Mb, and 128MB of memory (RAM), from is available to the user 121.40Mb.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Memory allocation in the HP 4700
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Allocation of memory in the HP 214
    Moreover, in the 214th resumed the good old tradition since Windows Mobile 2003 - iPAQ File Store, a block-volatile memory. Under his allotted 24Mb. The appointment is not entirely clear, because the new operating system, even when the discharge in the "zero" does not destroy your documents. But there are - and thank God.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP iPAQ 214: iPAQ File Store
    CCP supports two types of memory - CF and SDHC, space constraints do not, therefore, would be money, but to expand the memory up to 32GB 16 GB machine will allow. Good news for users of 4700: now the device does not disable the card slots, if the charge in less than 10%. And for a snack joint test program TCPMP and go smoothly to the testing of a multimedia device. One of the main advantages iPAQ 4700 has been and remains the ability to play unconverted video on a huge on PDA screen shnom standards, achieved through the sharper the CPU and graphics accelerator. How much progress in this direction the 214th? Alas, tests TCPMP is far from comforting. Lack of graphics accelerators will undoubtedly impact on the ability to play, and the processor, supporting accelerator in itself, a stranger old version of TCPMP. As a consequence, do not use the program (something similar was observed immediately after 4700, when TCPMP also showed low results because he was not familiar with the new graphic accelerator). It is hoped that it will be used in future versions of the program. And until the results came out the following:
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    For comfortable viewing of most films iPAQ 214 is suitable. When trying to run "heavy" AVI size of 1.5GB (720h400) were observed freezes or dropped frames, while in 4700 the film went without a hitch. Image quality level, while 4700 winner and a bit in this parameter due to the fact that the screen is glossy, not dull, like the 214th.

    Sound

    As for listening to music, then - alas! - All is not so rosy. First of all, a proprietary utility iPAQ Audio, which allows to adjust the equalizer, ceased to exist in the new handheld. It happened the same change as in the 114th model: now you can only adjust the microphone sensitivity.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Equalizer in the HP 4700
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Setting up a microphone in the HP 4700, so Mrs. option on the HP 214. A EQ, alas, no.
    Perhaps this change can not be called really nasty, because there are plenty of players with a customizable equalizer. The sound quality is tested on reinforcing earphones Ultimate Ears super.fi 3 studio and inexpensive Cresyn LMX-E630, used by players: Windows Media Player, GS Player, 40iPlay Client. The difference in sound quality is not very evident, perhaps, the volume of the 214th bit lower. In general, devices sound the same. This assertion was valid as long as to both the device was not connected to BlueTooth-headset SonyEricsson HBH-DS220. Pattern observed by us in the iPAQ 114 for a pair with this device, repeat: noise, wheezing. Play is not possible, in one word. While the iPAQ 4700 headset works fine. What a "glitch" is the place to be - BlueTooth driver incompatibility with a particular headset, damp firmware (firmware is the device in the screenshot) - hard to say.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    The quality of the recorder at the secondary level: in the silence of the sound is written well, while much noise when the voice is difficult to discern.

    Wireless and wired interfaces

    Manager of wireless interfaces, radically redesigned. If before it was called the label in the lower right corner of the screen, but now (as in the 114th), we have a separate line for Today-screen. On subjective view, the solution is not very convenient.
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    The label calls the Wireless Manager HP 4700
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Today-plug the Wireless Manager HP 214
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Wireless Manager in the HP 4700
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Wireless Manager in HP 214
    Used the drivers for BlueTooth Broadcom, differences in the management of BlueTooth, compared with the iPAQ 4700 is not, however, used a new driver version - 1.8.0 (by 4700 - 1.7.1). BlueTooth profiles as a whole remain unchanged, adding only "Synchronize PIM (contacts, calendar events) and" Remote computer management ". We list just in case the standard job profiles BlueTooth:
    • connection to the keyboard;
    • exchange business cards;
    • connecting to personal networks;
    • network connectivity;
    • remote viewing of files;
    • ActiveSync via BlueTooth;
    • a headset;
    • Internet via the phone;
    • sound equipment;
    • search services on the device BlueTooth.
    Job wireless module is stable, supported by 2.0 standard. Despite the fact that the iPAQ 4700 using an outdated standard of 1.2, the difference in file transfer speed is not. However, the undoubted advantage is the fact that the lowest energy consumption BlueTooth 2.0, compared with revision 1.2. This, it can be assumed due to a long time PDA mode GPS-navigation, but more on that below.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Connection via Wi-Fi is also stable, although at different forums, users have expressed complaints about his work. "Glitch" is manifested in falling asleep, the device with the included Wi-Fi. Turn on the device for about two minutes after that, and in some cases had to "wake" it resets. On the test sample was not observed anything like this, it is likely that in our hands the CPC came with already installed the patch for Wi-Fi, which is on the official website of HP, although the description of this update says only that it allows the device itself to switch between available access points when in the zone of visibility is a receiver with the best signal. On the software driver Wi-Fi on the device itself is silent. Run Wi-Fi as well as BlueTooth, - from the desktop via aypakovsky manager:
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Help file available - help for beginners:
    Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "width =" 240 "height =" 320 "/>
    Wi-Fi connection keeps stable, pages loaded noticeably faster than 4700. Without significance that our hero can be used for VoIP telephony. In a brief statement can be read about this standard:
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    We tested VoIP with Fring program and the Russian operator SipNet, as well as various network Wi-Fi (personal home and public). Calls made to fixed and mobile numbers, and in all cases was the place to be the following fact: I hear all pretty good, but quietly, but instead of my voice, people either did not hear, or hear the wheezing.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Several frustrating lack of built GPS-receiver. Satellite navigation is now so widespread that the receiver is inserted even in low-end models, so logically one would expect its presence in the 214-meters, given the very large screen including PDAs, the most capacious battery life, the very large body. Apparently, the main problem HP seen in the fact that the price of top-end handheld turned out to be within reason. And therefore denied bedolage the built-in GPS. However, when you connect the GPS-receiver via Bluetooth or via CF or SD slots using the navigation is a pleasure, mainly due to the large and bright VGA-screen, which can be seen in the sun, and of the processor also allows you to not worry about what you will hear a voice command "turn left" is after proedesh turn.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    On the forums you can find user complaints about the fact that the 214th quiet speaker, and if the kerf music or open a window, you will not hear that said a woman-robot. In our opinion, the speaker is rather loud, the only disadvantage is that it is located on the "back" at the CCP. Maybe if it located on the front side, the sound would be louder. Many expected the iPAQ USB-host. And, without seeing, began to make his own.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Homemade cable USB-host
    The fact that the "artisans" happened, said that the support function of the device and it is likely that over time there will be accessories that allow you to connect to the PDA everything your heart desires. Assembly is a very interesting out reshuffle: syncing PDA is charged if you use miniUSB. From a wide slot in the synchronization of your PDA is not charging, if not for him alone to connect the charger. Also, the PDA provides "foolproof": stick together and miniUSB, and corporate plug you do not get.

    Work Offline

    While reading at a minimum illumination AIPAC spent 10 hours and 15 minutes. While reading at the secondary level illumination iPAQ 214 with standard battery 2200MAh worked 7:00 15 minutes, while his brother - iPAQ 4700 - 8 hours (with two-year battery usage 1800MAh). For the sake of the experiment in 4700 was inserted into the battery of the 214th - 2200MAh, and in the 214th - the battery from 4700 - 1800MAh. While reading at a minimum illumination 4700 spent 13 hours 15 minutes, and the 214th - 4 hours 21 minutes. Under the maximum load in the wireless communication module, vykruchennoy the maximum illumination and playing video CCP spent 2:00, 33 minutes. While viewing the video (640x480, test clips) on the middle backlight turned off, wireless modules AIPAC worked 4 hours 10 minutes. While playing music at full volume through wired headphones through Windows Media Player with the screen and wireless interface PDA lasted 15 hours 15 minutes. In navigation mode, GPS - BlueTooth enabled and machine connected to BlueTooth-receiver, the light at the secondary level, a map for navigation is on the SD-card - the device has shown excellent results: 6 hours 25 minutes! Truly, this device is designed to navigate!
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes

    Software

    HP iPAQ Tips - built-in help. "Crawls" every time you start the PDA, you can disable it.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    For it is integrated into the program help index - HP iPAQ Quick Start.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    ClearVue PDF - a program for easy viewing of PDF. It is worth noting that a full-featured version. A purchase of this program for other PDAs will cost you about $ 10.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP Print Smart Mobile - a program for printing documents with the CCP is supported by a number of different profiles, such as: printing via BlueTooth, network
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    HP Photosmart Mobile - an interesting program for viewing images. There is a preview of the contents of a folder, view EXIF-information about the file.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    It is easier and quicker and smarter than the standard viewer, but to a functional Resco Photo Viewer is still falls short: loading of large images is interrupted with an error of memory, an attempt to view the details was not successful, while Resco Photo Viewer has shown a more readable result.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    Resco Photo Viewer
    Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes "width =" 240 "height =" 320 "/>
    HP Photosmart Mobile
    Unfortunately, the 214th lost standard for iPAQ 4700 program to control running applications, which, if you remember, "hung" on a separate button with an arrow in 4700. On the desktop, provides free information panel on RhinoCode - TodayPanel Lite V3.8. It displays the status of memory, batteries and light sensor with the ability to control:
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    In general, and we can say that the new iPAQ is not replete with some very necessary to the user programs, offering the buyer to select the necessary software on their own. However, care very much nesveduyuschih users to file online help still has a place to be.

    Supplied

    iPAQ 214 comes in a colorful box, where the pure Russian talks about the features located within the device. We can not say that the packaging was better, enticing than it was.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    The set includes:
    • Removable / rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery 2200 mAh,
    • AC adapter with power cord length of 1,83 m,
    • A smart cable with connector for synchronization and charging
    • stylus
    • Leather Case-pocket
    • CD HP iPAQ Companion,
    • voucher to receive free software;
    • documentation set.
    HP iPAQ 214. Unfinished Piece for piano in the bushes
    The set we found no cradle, so the usual solutions for top models, HP (4700, 4150). Let's hope that it will separate accessory. Also showed only one stylus. On the background of the fact that the stylus is totally redesigned, and in case of loss for the first time to find a replacement for him would be simply impossible, you might consider it a serious miscalculation.

    Conclusions

    To what conclusion can be reached by estimating the real situation? A play for our grand really is not over as yet not come out really stable firmware, not arrived, accessories for a new hero among handheld computers. Difficult to accept that the iPAQ 214 - a sequence of 4700. This is HP iPAQ 114, which tightened VGA and CF, so forgive me this pun. Unlikely to repeat the success of new iPAQ 4700. Perhaps, the first party is swept from the shelves fans of HP, but more out of habit. Lack of integrated GPS and accessories, as well as the size to play a role in purchasing. The success he is guaranteed only in the absence of competition from Acer, Fujitsu-Siemens. Wait and see. I think that our review has not yet completed. Pros:
    • capacity battery;
    • support SDHC;
    • miniUSB;
    • long time to work with GPS;
    • no glare and does not require a four-screen film.
    Cons:
    • plastic enclosure;
    • large size and weight;
    • fiddly joystick;
    • lack of graphic accelerator;
    • Mediocre sound quality
    The authors, translation: