[trinsic84]

Thinking of getting a new Pocket PC soon. I need inputs on which device to get. Rest assured I've searched the forum thoroughly but I still need some advice.

1. Windows Mobile 5.0 (WM2005) can I say that new handhelds would receive the upgrade? Handhelds on my list are Acer N50, Dell X50v and HP 6515.

2. I've used a pocket pc(O2 XDA II mini) before and I can sympathize with those who have problems with storage memory being too little. That's why the Acer N50 is on my list for having 128MB RAM. Moreover, I'm getting it a student rate($519 bef gst). However, as we all know Acer being a Taiwanese brand, I do somewhat question the quality of the service and support that would be provided in an event my set fails. I've also called Acer and they are not sure about the WM2005 upgrade. Any users of Acer products care to share their experiences?

3. Is the HP6515 a device many unseen problems? I've seen people selling it days or even a week after purchasing it.

4. X50v owners(especially Symphony) any gripes or grievances about it? I'm 60% sure of getting it.

Hope to hear replies soon as the Dell promotion ends on Friday(05/08).

[vicott]

1) No, usually the upgrade is not free even if it is available. Fujitsu-Siemens will be providing the upgrade free for Pocket Loxx 7xx. HP will be providing the upgrade for some selected iPAQs, but most likely not free. Dell is providing the upgrade free for new purchases of X50/X50V in US. otherwise, the upgrade for X50/X50V also comes at a fee. ETEN will also be providing the upgrade for M500, but whether it is free or chargeable is still uncertain. other hardware vendor have not announced any plans to provide the upgrade.

2) Acer n50 is running on WM2003SE so the 128MB RAM proves to be useful. however, i don't think Windows Mobile 5 upgrade will be available.

3) actually i feel the only problem with iPAQ hw6515 is the square screen. other than it, such a Pocket PC-Phone with built-in GPS is very useful for drivers.

[Bright]

Hi,

My two cents worth as follows:

1. Acer N50 is quite good in its spec. But I don't recommend it. Basing on the article on the types of memory (RAM, ROM, BIS, Persistent storage), 128 RAM is bad news for battery power. You are correct on backup support.

2. HP 6515 -- unless you like convergent devices, it should be okay. Remember that the more built in gadgets, the more power it consumes. The square screen is definitely a problem. HP accessories are way too expensive, though easier to buy. ( eg: HP battery goes in the region of hundred, while others like Dell's battery will cost something like 20+)

3. The Dell Axim X50v is definite value for money, especially if you get it during the promotion. No problems using it so far. Too be fair, VERY HAPPY with it so far.

Have fun deciding. :cool:

[trinsic84]

Bright, on Aug 4 2005, 03:35 AM, said:

Hi,

My two cents worth as follows:

1.   Acer N50 is quite good in its spec. But I don't recommend it. Basing on the article on the types of memory (RAM, ROM, BIS, Persistent storage), 128 RAM is bad news for battery power. You are correct on backup support.

2.   HP 6515 -- unless you like convergent devices, it should be okay. Remember that the more built in gadgets, the more power it consumes. The square screen is definitely a problem. HP accessories are way too expensive, though easier to buy. ( eg: HP battery goes in the region of hundred, while others like Dell's battery will cost something like 20+)

3.   The Dell Axim X50v is definite value for money, especially if you get it during the promotion. No problems using it so far. Too be fair, VERY HAPPY with it so far.

Have fun deciding. :cool:

Dell is selling at $649. Promotion ends tomorrow. I'm not sure if it's a good buy considering that the RAM is only 64MB. But the + point is that it has a VGA screen and it's 624MHz. How's dell's service and support?

Also checked the spare battery for Acer is around S$90.

This post has been edited by trinsic84: 04 August 2005 - 11:57 AM

[vicott]

trinsic84, on Aug 4 2005, 11:56 AM, said:

Dell is selling at $649. Promotion ends tomorrow. I'm not sure if it's a good buy considering that the RAM is only 64MB. But the + point is that it has a VGA screen and it's 624MHz. How's dell's service and support?

one thing to note that Dell will be providing the Windows Mobile 5 upgrade. that's where the 128MB ROM will come in very handy. ROM size will be more impt than RAM size in Windows Mobile 5, since the RAM will no longer be used for installing programs. for after-sales service/support, what do u think of 1-to-1 exchange service at your doorsteps?

[trinsic84]

vicott, on Aug 4 2005, 03:59 AM, said:

one thing to note that Dell will be providing the Windows Mobile 5 upgrade. that's where the 128MB ROM will come in very handy. ROM size will be more impt than RAM size in Windows Mobile 5, since the RAM will no longer be used for installing programs. for after-sales service/support, what do u think of 1-to-1 exchange service at your doorsteps?

You made my life much more easier. So am I right to say that the 64MB RAM will be free? Gonna place an order soon!

[vicott]

trinsic84, on Aug 4 2005, 12:03 PM, said:

You made my life much more easier. So am I right to say that the 64MB RAM will be free? Gonna place an order soon!

the RAM will be used for running of programs in Windows Mobile 5, i.e. Program Memory. the RAM might probably (hopefully) be used for temp files as well.

[trinsic84]

I was thinking the only difference between the X50 and X50v is the VGA screen and processor speed. Is it worth paying 100 for that? I changed the cradle for the USB sync cable so that cut my price quite significantly. I guess for me so long i can sync it's OK but I don't know if the VGA is really worth it.

This post has been edited by trinsic84: 04 August 2005 - 12:14 PM

[vicott]

btw, X50 is only using a 3.5" screen while X50V is using a 3.7" screen. and both models have the same size. since the size is the same, a larger screen is nicer :grin: furthermore, VGA is great for viewing photos & videos :grin:

[John Teoh]

Frankly speaking, if you later want to sell your PDA to upgrade to other, the x50v is better choice.

Cheers
John