Category: Hardware

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E-TEN Glofiish x500+ Reviewed!

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I had the pleasure of reviewing this incredible PDA, the E-TEN “Glofiish” X500+, which has added features like a 640×480 VGA, GPS via SiRFstar III, and a wonderfully useful application set.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

When I first heard the rumors about the E-TEN “Glofiish” X500+ back in late 2006, I was smitten by the initial specifications!  This device sounded like it could very-well be my “holy grail” PocketPC: a converged device that featured a Cell-phone, Full PDA, Integrated Camera, Integrated GPS, and most of all, a VGA screen, all in one device!  Woo-hoo!

I was overjoyed to confirm later in February 2007 some additional facts, such as:
1.) The X500+ would come with Windows Mobile 6 Professional,
2.) It’s GPS would be SiRFStar III, and support TMC (Traffic Message Channel).
3.) The Camera would be CMOS based (not CCD!), have a 2-MegaPixel capacity, as well as a camera Flash!
4.) The addition of an integrated FM Radio and stereo earbuds that would act as the Radio antenna.
5.) Support for both WiFi “b” and “g”, as well as Bluetooth 2.0 with EDR (Enhanced Data Rate).

You can see the whole review here.

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When will I get this kind of convergence?

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There are many PDAs out there with Telephony services, a camera, and other features, but they are always lacking something: like integrated GPS, VGA, or sufficient base RAM memory.

When will some company create a PDA with these features?

  • Cellular (GSM & 3G) plus Data (GPRS/UMTS/Edge).
  • 4″ VGA (640×480 minimum) screen.
  • Faster Processor (624Mhz PXA270 or better).
  • More SDRAM (128MB minimum, 256MB preferred).
  • SiRFstar III GPS (AGPS would be cool).
  • 3MP Camera, + 1MP front-facing Video Conference
  • Wireless WiFi b & g, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR.
  • SDIO or MicroSD (SDHC compatible).
  • Barcode scanner & Inventory Software.

So far, the Psion Teklogix “iK�n” PDA Phone that Breley alerted us to last week is the closest match to date, but even the iK�n is lacking in a few areas, namely a 2MP camera instead of a 3MP camera, no front-facing camera for Video Conferencing, no AGPS (minor actually), no 3G capabilities, and a 3.7″ screen.  Also, it appears the Barcode scanner/imager is “optional”, so it looks like it may be an “add-on” module.

Next closest is the E-TEN Glofiish X500+, but it too lacks a lot: 2.8″ screen, 64MB of SDRAM, no front-facing camera for Video Conferencing, and no Barcode Scanner.

Can anyone else suggest a device that comes close to offering these same specifications.   I’ll draw the line at UMPCs because I’m still looking for a regular PocketPC.

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Booq Anaconda for iPhone!

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Having reviewed the Anaconda 5 with my Booq Python XL review last August, I can personally attest to the high quality materials used in this premium case.   Only because I will not be needing the extra room in the Anaconda 5 added for iPhone support, I will continue using it for my Treo 700wx.  But for those of you with iPhone’s in your future, I thought you would be interested in the following:

SIERRA MADRE, CALIF.  June 28, 2007 — BOOQ, a fast-growing, premium brand of performance-driven laptop carrying cases for creative professionals on the move, announces Anaconda 5, a rugged accessory case perfectly fitted for the iPhone.

Anaconda 5 is crafted from the toughest ballistic nylon, the softest neoprene, and is lined with a scratch-resistant material developed to protect your iPhone against scratches and excessive wear. Designed to attach to your belt or a BOOQ laptop bag or backpack, Anaconda 5 has a convenient Velcro and is available for $44.95. It is also bundled with BOOQ bags, backpacks, and laptop sleeves for exceptional value.

With the addition of the Anaconda 5 iPhone case, BOOQ brings another premium product of the highest performance to the next generation of creative professionals. Customers who have come to expect fresh and innovative design solutions love the exceptional level of quality and functionality of BOOQ’s products. The privately held company is based in Sierra Madre, California.

The Anaconda 5 is in stock and ready to ship. 

Product link: http://booqbags.com/s.nl/it.A/id.108/.f

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What would it take to make a Dream PDA?

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I’ve been giving this some thought lately, and I’ve come-up with the following specifications:

Chipset: Intel PXA 624MHz or better
System Memory: 64Meg or better
Flash ROM: 128Meg or better
GPS: SiRF Star3 or better
Screen: 3.5″ or bigger
Resolution: VGA 480×640 or better
Wireless: 802.11G WiFi or better
BlueTooth 2.0 or better
Memory Form Factor: SD
Security: BioMetric Finger-print scanner
OS: WM5.
Camera: 1.3 megapixel or better
Cellphone: optional

Currently, the Loox n560 comes closest, lacking only the Biometric Fingerprint scanner and the Camera.  The IMATE JasJar is a close second, but lacks the faster processor speed, the GPS, and the Wireless G (and WPA), but does include the camera and Cellphone.