Dual XDVD8181 - DVD player with LCD monitor and AM/FM tuner Review

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(More customer reviews)I've had an older model Panasonic 7" LCD for some time now and it works great except for the fact that it does not play burned DVD's. However, this one by Dual does! I've burned quite a few DVD's in DVD-R format and the Dual XDVD8181 has taken them all without a fuss.
The CD Player is nice (nothing special) and radio works well. Also the AUX Input for the Ipod interface doesn't allow you to control the Ipod with the Touchscreen. You need to use the Ipod itself to change songs. The "iPlug" connector is simply an RCA audio (Red/White, L/R) to stereo mini-jack (female) input so you can basically connect anything that has a stereo mini jack output to it.
Installation was straight-forward if you're technically inclined. My only gripe is that I was not able to install the unit flush with the dash because of the way the LCD Screen folds up. If you try to make the unit flush, the LCD screen gets caught when it tries to open up. The only way this can be installed is by having the unit stick out of the dash about 1 inch (maybe a little less). This is not a big deal, but for those of you who are picky about asthetics, this might annoy you.
It has an input for a rear view camera if you're in to that. It also has RCA preouts (Front, Rear, and Subwoofer) but the Subwoofer preout is mono. You'll need a Y-cable if you want to split it to simulate stereo for the subwoofer (but who really needs stereo output for the subwoofer?)
One more annoyance is that if you're like me and you want to have a DVD playing while driving (not legal, but whatever), you can't simply ground the wire that's supposed to go to the parking brake. With my old Panasonic I was able to do this to "trick" the DVD player in to thinking I was parked. The way this one works is that you have to enable the parking brake, disable, then re-enable within a few seconds, then after 5 seconds of delay, the picture will show. Basically it needs to go: Ground, off, Ground. I bypassed this security measure by buying a push button switch from Radio Shack and wired the "parking brake" wire from the unit, to the button, then to the ground. So all I need to do is push the button on, push it off, then push it on again to view DVDs while driving.
For the price, this is really a good buy. Lacks add-on navigation option, integrated ipod controls via touchscreen, and flush-mount ability.. so I gave it 4 stars.
Pros:
- Price (Best bang for your buck compared to other brands)
- Plays burned DVDs (DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+/-RW)
- 3 sets of RCA Preouts
- AUX Input
- Touchscreen
- Cool blue illuminated buttons
- Remote control included
- Plays MP3 CDs
Cons:
- No true Ipod control, just AUX input
- Prevents simple hacking for DVD viewing while driving, but you can still bypass (read my hack above)
- No add-on navigation option
- Does not mount flush with dash (due to the way the LCD screen opens)

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Archos 704 80 GB WiFi Portable Digital Media Player Review

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(More customer reviews)I like this player a lot. 3 minutes out of the box I was connected the home WiFi. 2 minutes later it found my Infrant ReadyNAS (ReadyNAS NV+, 1.0TB (4 x 250GB pre-installed Seagate Barracuda ES SATA HDD), X-RAID, 256MB memory, Silver, SFF desktop NAS) and was streaming MP3s and video to the player flawlessly.
Size:
It's thick and heavy. It has a similar footprint to a Sony ebook reader, but much deeper and heavier. It's just about as wide and tall as a DVD case, but again, much deeper (almost 3/4 of an inch deep).
Formats:
I do not have any media formats that this won't play. I did purchase the optional .VOB codec from the Archos site. It plays my WMV (including DRM stuff), Divx, AVI, MP3(all kinds).
Accessories:
It comes with a nice woven nylon case and a 120V power adapter. It has headphones (with inline volume) and USB in and USB out.
Connections:
It has audio out (headphones), power, USB (mini in, mini out, two Archos plugs for docking and that's it. Everything else needs a dock to work.
Screen:
The touch screen is vibrant and very bright. I have big fingers so I do better with a stylus for controls. The high resolution is amazing.
Sound:
The speakers are "OK" but headphones could be louder. I took this on a plane yesterday and the included headphones were not loud enough to hear over the engine noise. I had to use my Sure E5c headphones to hear anything on videos and MP3s (Shure E5c Sound Isolating Earphones).
Internet:
It comes with Opera and surfing was fine. A great device for webmail or shopping (it comes with am eMusic 50 free MP3s certificate). I will take this (instead of a laptop) on my next vacation.
Sync:
The platey can snyc (USB) as a Windows Media Device or a USD hard drive. I love that option (it asks you each sync).
Issues:
1. I would have liked a place to "plunge" the stylus in the device for storage (the case has a tiny pocket).
2. I would have liked Svideo out without buying a dock.
3. Audio out should be louder.
Wishes:
1. I would love to see this use a bluetooth phone as a DUN to the hit the net.
2. I would love to have and SD Card reader on board to help move media on the road.
Other Issues:
1. Be careful with Unbox video. The resolution of this player far exceeds most mobile players. One of my goals was to start buying Unbox videos instead of ripping my DVDs all the time. Problem: the "mobile" size of Unbox video looks very poor on the screen (please try an inexpensive one for yourself)due to low resolution. And Unbox does not allow you to sync (no snyc rights) the larger video that you download. So I have a video that I "bought" that I cannot use on this device because the low version looks so bad, and the high-res version has DRM restrictions that won't let it play on the 704 Wifi. Not terrible, but it will keep 704 owners from renting or buying from Unbox for sure.

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More than just a Portable Media Player (PMP) with a bright 7-inch screen and the ability to store all your favorite movies, tunes and photos, the groundbreaking Archos 704 is also outfitted with Wi-Fi capabilities (802.11g). Through your home wireless network, you'll be able to browse through your multimedia library stored on any computer on the network. You'll also be able to connect to online video stores to download content directly and wirelessly to the 704 WiFi. It features an 80 GB hard drive (providing capacity for about 70 DVD-quality movies), a 7-inch bright LCD touchscreen, and integrated speakers. Additionally, when paired with the optional Archos DVR Station docking station, you can easily connect the 704 WiFi to your TV to watch movies and photo slideshows on a larger screen as well as turn the 704 into a digital video recorder (DVR) to take your favorite programs with you wherever you roam. It measures 7 x 5 by 0.75 inches and weighs just 22 ounces.
Wide Touch screen The Archos 704 WiFi features a wide, high resolution (800 x 480) 7-inch color touch screen that allows you to navigate through menus easily with a stylus or even a fingertip. The size of screen enables a great visual comfort.
WiFi The integrated 802.11g wireless interface is perfect for those who want to access their media wherever they go, including surfing the Web, sending and receiving email from Web-based mail applications, and connecting the device to a home network to transfer files or play content directly from the network.
Video player The Archos 704 WiFi is the perfect companion for people on the move: its 40/80 GB hard drive capacity allows you to store up to 50/100 movies encoded with a PC. Play them on the built-in 7-inch LCD color screen or playback on TV in high resolution up to 720 x 576 (DVD quality) with the DVR station. Play a large variety of video files, including MPEG-4, WMV and protected WMV and read MPEG-4 AAC/H.264 (.MP4 QuickTime files), MPEG-2, and VOB with optional software plug-ins (available on this website). The Archos 704 WiFi also offers many more functionalities such as slow motion, adjustable screen size, video editing and even a video bookmarking function.
Record TV or external video sources Transform your Archos 704 WiFi into a Digital Video Recorder with the optional DVR station. Record TV or most video sources such as satellite/cable box, VCR, DVD player or camcorder in MPEG-4 format. Set up the DVR station by connecting it to the external video source; simply slot in your ARCHOS and record instantaneously or make scheduled recordings with the included infrared receiver that controls the external video sources.
Turn your ARCHOS into a camcorder ARCHOS allows you to transform your device into a camcorder by connecting most digital cameras to your Archos 704 WiFi, or by connecting the optional high resolution helmet camcorder. The Archos 704 WiFi records video directly on its 40 GB hard drive in MPEG-4 format, up to VGA resolution (640 x 480).
Photo wallet Transfer your photos directly from a digital camera with the USB 2.0 Host interface. Store and view up to 800,000 photos (JPEG, PNG and BMP formats) and display slideshows with music and transition effect. Manage your files and folders directly on the device for a better mobility. Enjoy the large size of the screen and the cool sleek design of the product to display the Archos 704 WiFi in your living room and use as digital photo frame.
Music Player Store up to 40,000 songs on the hard drive and play most popular music files such as MP3, WAV, WMA and protected WMA files. Easily organize songs with the enhanced ARCLibrary and customize your view by artist, album, type of music, title, year, and create your playlists without having to use a computer. Use the voice recorder to store notes quickly for a later use.
Charge and sync Charge your Archos 704 WiFi with the included power adapter. Purchase, download, subscribe to or rent protected video and music content from online stores on your PC, and, using the high-speed USB 2.0 interface, the Archos 704 WiFi will easily auto-synchronize this content with Windows Media Player 11 each time you connect it to your PC, or convert your Windows Media Player 11 library content to one of the many compatible formats (MP3, WMA, WAV, protected WMA, MPEG-4, WMV and protected Windows Media Video).
What's in the Box Archos 704 WiFi, headphones, USB 2.0 cable, USB 2.0 host adapter, DVR Station saddle, 2 styli, remote control, power adapter/charger, protective pouch, QSG, legal and safety notice

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Archos 7 320 GB Internet Media Tablet Review

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(More customer reviews)As an owner of both the new Archos 7 as well as last year's model (the 705), I wanted to provide some points of comparison between the two for anyone trying to decide whether to save some money on the older model. In general, the two are very similar -- they provide essentially the same functionality, although the new 7 includes a couple of new features (and includes for free some of the plugins that you had to pay for before with the 705).
Here's a quick rundown of the positive changes in the 7 vs the 705:
* Speed -- particularly of the web browser. The new 7 has a much faster CPU and renders web content at a much better pace (probably 3x the speed of the 705). Using the browser on the 705 was often painful except on pages that were geared to mobile devices. The 7 can handle even most complex pages without a problem. Since I use the device for browsing quite a bit, this is a HUGE plus for the 7.
* Email -- The 7 includes a native email client that supports GMail, Yahoo mail or any POP/IMAP server. It's very simple but usable. It's also free (i.e. not a plugin).
* Better screen -- The screen on the 7 definitely is crisper than that on the 705. And the colors are rendered more accurately (at least from my subjective point of view).
* Better responsiveness -- The touchscreen on the 7 is more responsive than on the 705. The increased sensitivity really helps the usability. That said, people who use other touchscreen devices (e.g. iPhone) may find that the screen is still not as sensitive/responsive as other devices.
* Size -- although the screen is the same size between the 2 units, the 7 is slightly shorter and thinner than the 705 (but not by much). The 7's glossy case does collect fingerprints rather quickly, but that's purely an aesthetic issue.
Advantages of the 705 over the 7:
* Archos dropped the mini-USB plug that was used to connect the Archos to your computer. It now uses a proprietary connector for this purpose.
* They also dropped the USB host port from that came with the 705. The 7 includes the USB host capability, but to use it you must purchase the DVR station or mini-dock add-ons. This was built-in directly in the 705 unit. This makes using the device to dump pictures from your digital camera more of a hassle as one more attachment must be carried just for this.
* They also dropped the video out connecter that was standard in the 705. Again, to use this feature with the 7 you'll need the DVR station or mini-dock.
* No stylus or case included -- I've found that using my finger generally works fine but a stylus is still better/more accurate on the screen. Luckily, the 705 came with 2 of them, so I use the spare with my 7. As for the case, you'll have to buy one from Archos to a third party if you want/need one.
Things I wish they would have improved:
* Weight -- this is one heavy device at nearly 1.5 lbs. Granted, the size makes carrying it in a pocket prohibitive, but the weight would do you in otherwise. Fine for a travel bag though and definitely much lighter than a laptop.
* Most plugins still not free -- The browser plugin and "web radio/tv" plugins are now free, but to view many online videos and items ripped from DVD, you'll need to plunk down extra $ for those plugins.
* Support for Flash 9 -- The Archos ostensibly ships with support for Flash 9, but what they don't tell you is that not all Flash 9.x versions are created equally. For example, while most clips on YouTube work, the version of Flash on the Archos does not support popular sites like Hulu. This for me is one of the largest disappointments of the Archos 7.
* No HD or 3G plugins available -- despite what the product description days, the plugins that provides HD video thru the DVR dock (or mini-dock) and which support a 3G wireless connection thru a USB dongle do not actually exist. There's also a very good chance they never will. Archos is notorious for promoting features which are never delivered. If either of these plugins is critical in your decision to purchase the Archos 7, you would be best off waiting until they are released before making the purchase.
For me, I use the 7/705 as a travel companion so I can watch videos, browse the web and store digital pictures. For web use, the 7 is a huge improvement. For videos, the better screen is a nice improvement, but for picture storage, the lack of the built-in USB host port and the need to carry the mini-dock is a bummer.


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pThe ARCHOS 7, with is stunning 7 screen, is the best travel companion you can imagine. With a huge disk capacity and an incredible viewing comfort, combined with Internet and TV capacity in a handheld device, it will accompany your travels and holidays and replace any other multimedia player you were using so far./p

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Compaq iPAQ 3955 Color Pocket PC Review

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(More customer reviews)While most of the reviewers have done a great job of examining the various technical advantages of this amazing little device, I'd like to take a moment just to describe the incomparable beauty of the operating system itself. Long gone are the days when the Pocket PC Operating System was home to a handful of difficult-to-use, technical software hash-togethers; today, a Pocket PC can do everything and anything. Microsoft's original marketing ploy for the device - "Can your Palm do this?" (answer: not unless its holding a Pocket PC) - rings truer than ever. Some of the things you can do with a Pocket PC:
1) Using a connection to the internet (purchase a Secure Digital wi-fi card and stick it into the iPaq) you can transfer money and check your bank balance, if you bank support online banking. Do it anywhere in the house, or even at Starbucks, using their wi-fi hotspots.
2) You can watch your DVD movies on the airplane on the iPaq using Pocket TV; checkout [the website] for idiot-proof instructions on how to transfer those movies you downloaded...(legal movies, of course ;) into your Pocket PC in no time flat.
3) Play Super Nintendo and Original Nintendo - as well as Gameboy games - on your Pocket PC. Of course, ROMS are generally illegal. So in reality, you cannot do this. But if you were so inclined, various emulators - all of them, except for the SNES, are full speed (and larger than original screen size, in the Gameboy emulator's case) - are readily available on the internet. Checkout pocketgamer.org for info on Pocket PC gaming.
4) Use it as a remote control. If you've misplaced the sound system remote again, simply use the iPaq sitting in your pocket.
5) Look at (and edit) your digital camera pictures. If your digital camera uses secure digital cards, it is simply a matter of sliding the card into your iPaq. Otherwise, purchase the extra-slim Silver Slider Expansion Pack for the iPaq (about $50) and then you can insert compact flash cards (a more popular digital camera format) into the iPaq.
6) Get the latest headlines and news briefs from the Internet every morning using Microsoft Plus Sync'n Go (available in MS Plus!: Digital Media Edition, available to purchase and download over the Internet) and watch MSNBC at work or in the bus. No commercials, no advertisement, such a quick rundown of the day's news. Simply dock your Pocket PC in the morning, and you're all set.
7) Play Quake - the original, fully 3D version - on your Pocket PC. Fully legal to play the demo version on the optimized Pocket Quake engine, available to download for free at pocketmatrix.com
8) Play Tomb Raider, Simcity 2000, and, within months, the complete version of Worms World Party on your device. All are available to purchase and download from trusted online retailers like handango.com
9) Replace all your glove compartment maps with MS Pocket Streets, available for free from MS to download over the Internet. Maps are fully zoomable; streets appear just like on a real map, or just click on any street to identify it. If you are really into, purchase Pocket Copilot, a black plastic sleeve with an antenna that slides onto your iPaq and makes it a full-color, ultra-professional GPS system with audio instructions ("Next intersection, turn right"). Even comes with a suction cup holder so you can attach the GPSed iPaq to your car dashboard.
10) Experience e-Books the way they were meant to be experienced. Countless classics, from Kurt Vonnegut to George Orwell, are available...And anything published in the 1920's and earlier (Hemmingway, anyone?) is copyright-free; in other words, go to goggle and type in the book's title and "Microsoft Reader ebook" along with free, and you're bound to find something. Otherwise, check [online] to find out if your favorite book is available to purchase for MS Reader, Palm Reader, or Adobe Reader (all compatible with Pocket PC, even the second one!)
11) Edit documents with on the fly spell-checking (i.e. underlines mistakes in red as you type) along with synonyms, pictures, headers, tables, etc. using Textmaker, a third party app that is as fully functional as Word in every single way.
12) Forget the dictionary; 8 megabytes or less is enough for virtually any of the various dictionary (and translator) products available for Pocket PC.
13) Play the shareware versions (or full, if you own the originals) of Hexen, Heretic, and Doom, all for free. Open source engines for all three games are available, and easily accessible, on the Internet. Take a peak at pocketgamer.org to find out more.
14) Using Thunderhawk, a third party Internet Browser, you can view websites in 100% full "virtual" resolution. When you type in a site address, the website first goes through Thunderhawk's servers and is transformed into a virtual page that then appears on your Pocket PC. Everything...appears just as it does on your PC, with support for all cookies and proprietary standards. Palm cannot match that - it is 100% real web browsing.
...In other words, calling a Pocket PC an organizer is an understatement like no other. This is a PC, with all the advantages of portability, that fits in your pocket. Amazing little gadget - if you like technology, you will adore the iPaq.

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Audiovox D1718PK 7-Inch Portable DVD Player with Bonus Headphones and Car Kit Review

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(More customer reviews)After having this product for just a few days, here are some first impressions of my first portable DVD player. The screen resolution is not as good as I would have hoped, but it is good enough. Scenes with a lot of small detail may disappoint, but when larger less complex images are viewed, the detail is amazingly good. The built-in speakers are a little tinny, but again, good enough. On the other hand, the headphone sound is very good indeed. My new fully-charged battery lasted 2 hours 40 minutes, not the 3 hours suggested, but we are all familiar with overly optimistic battery life claims!
The real reason to buy this unit is the portability factor, which allows it to be used in the car, and the two sets of headphones should keep two children relatively calm on car trips. But the folding headphones may be a challenge and so kids and adults alike should be informed of their fragile nature. Speaking of fragile, the disc door is thin plastic, and may break if closed roughly or mishandled. A sturdier door would be a good idea.
I had hoped this unit would be an upgraded model of the D1708PK, but it appears the only difference is that this model sports a black case. It looks really sharp though. When handled with care, this product should give long service, and anyone looking for a DVD player for use in a vehicle should give it consideration. The bonus pack with the two sets of headphones, the adapters, cables, remote, etc., make it a no-brainer.


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Dell Axim X30 Pocket PC (624 MHz, 64MB, Wi-Fi) Review

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(More customer reviews)I have had My Axim for a couple of months now and I have put it through its marks. I comes out on top in everything. Dell has thought of it all when it comes to this very handsome PocketPc. I was very impressed when I turned it on and went to the internet and it set its self up for my wifi network. I thought that was going to me a nightmare and it turned out to be a dream. It works like a dream on the internet too. I can use it anyplace and that makes it easy to keep up on my email.
It keeps my life in order with all the software that comes with it and there is so much to add if you need to. The free stuff is endless on the web.
It plays and stores my MP3s like the best MP3 player. I can watch the latest movies on it while waiting to see the doctor or play great games to keep my mind busy while waiting for that doctor who seems to be takeing forever, but I don't mind I have my Axim X30.
I can never find a piece of paper while out to take down an address or a note about something I don't want to forget and my Axim does that too. It takes notes and saves them with ease. Don't feel like writing? Well just press a button and speak your notes or anything else. You won't need one of those little tape recorders ever again. Throw away your Day Runner. You won't need it ever again. This stores all that and more.
I just can't list everything it can do because I would be writing forever but with software there isn't much it can't do. On the lighter side you can even use it for a flashlight or a mirror to check your lipstick!!
I have had many Palms and PocketPcs and I have liked them all but none can come close to this one. It's by far one of the very BEST there is out there. Its super fast too. You can add tons of memory with SD memory cards and they are so small.
I really could fill up allot more pages just listing the things this little package can do but I think you get the picture. They say that "Big things come in little packages". I think they wrote that just for the Dell Axim X30

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Sony Ericsson W995 Energetic Red Walkman Unlocked GSM Cell Phone International Version Sim Free Mobile Review

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(More customer reviews)If anyone do not want to spend extra $$ for smart phone's data plan, this phone would be the best alternative. Great camera, Sony Walkman for MP3, plus wifi, it's definitly a great buy.


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PhoneSuit Primo Power Core Battery Pack for iPhone, iPad, iPod, Blackberry, Android Tablets & Smartphones Review

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(More customer reviews)The Primo power core works great wth my Galaxy tab. It charge very fast as I've expected. The design and material looks nice. I would recommend it to my friends.

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Pioneer AVIC-Z1 - Navigation system with DVD player, LCD monitor and radio Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this unit here at Amazon.com, and then had it installed at a major appliance center. The major appliance center had free installation with the purchase of this unit, but I saved enough money buying it here at Amazon, to where I came out ahead by having to pay for the installation.
This unit made quite an impression on the technicians, who all said that they want to get one for their vehicle.
It fit PERFECTLY in my Ford F-150 double din. Looks great.
I have already paired my cell phone via bluetooth with the unit. You have to buy the accessory for the bluetooth, which is well worth the money. When I get a call, it turns down the music, and the caller id comes up on the screen. You then just answer. You also have a phonebook on the screen, which uploaded right from my blackberry. This accessory is a must.
I also got the iPOD adapter. This accessory is a HUGE MUST. It sounds absolutely unbelieveable. However, this is one of the few negative things I have to say. Although it does have a search function, it requires a lot of scrolling. Also, if you decide you don't want the song selected, it then reverts back to the beginning of the list, even if you were in the "n's", for example. Pioneer needs to make it easier to select groups and songs in the iPOD. Still, do not pass on the accessory.....the techs also loved it. I had them place the cord in the glovebox, which worked out very well.
As far as navigation, the display is beautiful. That extra half inch of display (this is 7" vs the tpical 6.5") makes a BIG impact. Navigation is easy, and there is a pleasant female voice to guide you on approaching turns. I have owned to Garmin GPSs, which are good products, but this is better because of the guages that pinpoint the approaching turn.
The voice commands are very cool, but I am just learning them now. It works well from what I have seen.
My 2005 Ford F-150 had an upgraded sound system with sub-woofer, and they were able to hook into this. The quality of music in changing to the Avic-Z1 just DOUBLED easily. I actually sat in my driveway last night listening to my iPOD, amazed at how clean the system sounded. Honestly, it sounds like I got a whole new high end speaker package. This unit is ready for either SIRIUS or XM, which I passed on because with 5000 songs in my iPOD, just don't feel like I need it.
The DVD picture is awesome, and with the newly improved sound, it is like being in a theater.
I had to take one star off just for the iPOD issues, and the fact that they need to improve the iPOD menu. Maybe they can do that via a software upgrade. I also had to give it only four stars because of their governors on the video and other functions. In order to watch video, the emergency brake has to be set. I am told there used to be a way around this, but now there is an internal gyroscope that is tough to bypass. Boooooo!! What if my passenger wants to watch video? I also have to set the brake to enter an address for navigation. I guess I can understand they don't want people inputting info when driving, but I wish it was not there.
I highly recommend this unit, and do not regret it at all.

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HP iPAQ HX4705 Pocket PC Review

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(More customer reviews)This iPaq gets none of the love it deserves. In truth, it is the best stand-alone PDA available on the market. First, let me address the immediate complaints made about the 4705.
1. Price
Um, get a paper route. This is the highest end device of its kind, because of its speedy processor, VGA screen, and extras which are packed into the device. There are Pocket PCs available for much less money, but with lower price you sacrifice quality.
2. Size
Seven Ounces, the size of a pack of index cards. This PDA fits in your front pants or jacket pocket, and form factor dictates that it be that big to accomodate the large screen.3. Screen flip cover.
This is removable. I've never understood this complaint.4. Touchpad.
Using a floating cursor, like a laptop computer is actually a huge convenience. Using the pad as a navigation director isn't easy, so be aware of that before purchasing.Anyway. The 4705 runs on a very fast processor, and can handle several tasks at once. The VGA screen displays 640X480 pixels, making videos, games, and websites absolutely gorgeous to view. There is tons of built-in memory, as well as SD and CF slots to accomadate another 3 GB of storage. This is more than enough room for all your videos, music, photos, games, and PIM. Pocket Informant is included, to manage your Notes, Calendar, Tasks, and Contacts. It integrates with Outlook for your Calendar, Contacts, Notes, Tasks, and Inbox. ActiveSync 3.8 works very quickly, and you'll have no problem taking both your office, and your personal life with you on the go. Microsoft Office is included, so you have both Word and Excel. You can read, edit, write, and print documents and spreadsheets. These can be transferred to and from your computer. Windows Media Player 9.0 is included, allowing you to listen to .wma files, or watch .wmv files. A free e-book reader can be found to allow you to read books on the device, and if you subscribe to Audible.com, you can listen to books. There are literally hundreds of games that you can find for the device that are mind blowingly realistic graphics-wise. Some are free, some cost a small fee to download. HP Image Zone lets you make slideshows of your favorite photo albums. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are also integrated in the device. This means you have two options of accessing the internet at any given time. Wi-Fi means that you can get a high speed internet connection near a Wi-Fi hotspot such as a coffeehouse, hotel, airport, office, home network, etc. If you're not near a Wi-Fi area, you can connect at dial-up speed using a Bluetooth modem. I use my Motorola V710 phone from Verizon. This may cost more, so check with your wireless company. All in all, this device is a life saver. To recap, I use this iPAQ to:
1. Maintain my Contacts, Calendar, Notes, Tasks, and Inbox
2. Keep all documents and spreadsheets handy
3. View all my photos
4. Read ebooks
5. Connect to the internet whenever, wherever
6. Play numerous PC console- quality video games
7. Listen to hours and hours of music
8. Watch video, including full length DVD movies
9. Record notes
And tons more! This iPAQ is worth every penny you'll pay for it. And if you have a job that involves anything more complex than soaking french fries, it will basically pay for itself, because you'll save hours from your job. The question isn't: Should you buy the HP iPAQ 4705? The question is: You haven't bought the HP iPAQ 4705 yet?!

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Includes: Windows Mobile 2003 2nd Edition, Pocket Outlook, Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, Pocket Informant 5.0, 1,800 mAh lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, desktop cradle, plastic flip cover, stylus, & more. hp iPaq hx4705 Pocket PC - This versatile Pocket PC is a reliable go-anywhere business tool for your hectic lifestyle. Be more productive when you utilize the hx4705's fast Intel 624MHz processor and bundled applications. Stay connected to the world around you with integrated 802.11b Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. No matter where you are, the world is at your fingertips with the hx4705 Pocket PC.480 x 640 Pixels Magnesium-alloy body Integrated SD Slot (supports SD/MMC and SDIO) Integrated CF Slot (CompactFlash Type II) Integrated Microphone & Speaker (both on the front of the iPaq) 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack MP3 Stereo Playback 4 Shortcut programmable buttons Navigation touchpad with mouse-like cursor Buttons -power, voice record, soft reset, contacts, inbox, mail, & iTask Connects to a PC via USB 2.0 Unit Dimensions -5.17 (h) x 3.03 (w) x. 59 (d) Unit Weight -6.6 oz.

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HP iPAQ 5455 Pocket PC Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Well, let me begin by saying that I researched all of the PDAs on the market including Palm products and came away that this unit would be the best choice out there due to its 80211b connectivity. I primarily use Windows and as such though it would be a great tool to use to keep track of my contacts, Outlook messages, and to even sometimes use the IE browser capabilities remotely. After getting the unit, setting it up, and using it for several weeks I ended up returning it. Here's why, 1) The battery power is horrible if you use BlueTooth or the 80211b. I primarily wanted the unit to connect to my Outlook both at home and at work and I found the battery lifetime to be just short of two hours when using the 80211b (with BlueTooth turned off). This made it really tough to be able to attend a long meeting and rely on the 5455 for my email. Yes I could have carried optional battery packs, but I didn't want to do that. After all if this unit is supposed to be all encompassing then I shouldn't need to carry gear with me to support it. 2) The reliability of the wireless is not without its faults. Quite often I had to do soft resets - it got to the point that somewhere between 20-30 percent of the time a soft reset was required. 3) The Pocket PC operating system, particularly the aspects related to wireless connectivity and connectivity with the AutoSynch mechanism are not flawless in their implementation - you'll find problems connecting, you'll lose connections, and if you have more than one email service/account then you'll have to manually switch each time to get mail from each of the accounts. 4) I noticed the current incarnation of the Pocket PC OS have problems with slowing down in CPU speed when adding more applications to the unit. This is somewhat expected that as you add apps the OS will slow down, but adding just a handful of standard apps to the 5455 brought the peppy default speed of the unit down to almost intolerable. Again, since these were my primary reasons for purchasing the unit if the synching and wireless didn't work perfectly then there was little point in keeping the 5455. After three weeks of giving the 5455 every effort that I could make a case for keeping it I came to the conclusion that it did not meet my needs. A few weeks later I still do not in any way regret the decision of returning it. Taking into consideration the cost of the unit and the poor reliability and short battery life it just didn't make sense for me. I'll wait till HP come out with better battery technology that actually lasts with wireless and I'll wait till Microsoft come out with their next implementation of the OS which will hopefully synchronize and generally work more reliably. Perhaps by the time this happens then we'll have a version available which is built into a digital telephone - this would be an even more practical and useful real-world solution.

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Early Adopters Pick: December 2002. The first and only Pocket PC handheld PDA with integrated wireless LAN (802.11b), Bluetooth technology, and biometric fingerprint security.
The powerful HP iPAQ H5455 Pocket PC features a 400 MHz Intel XScale processor, 64 MB RAM, 48 MB flash ROM, and a Secure Digital memory slot for additional memory. Its display is a color transflective TFT LCD, 3.78-inch, low-power, 16-bit touch screen, capable of displaying more than 65,000 colors with 240 x 320 resolution and .24 mm dot pitch.
The H5455 is a ready-to-go wireless solution with universal remote control and Bluetooth technology capability, along with cool applications such as WEB, instant messaging, MP3, and online games. It's also compatible with popular Microsoft applications such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Programs installed on the Pocket PC include: Microsoft Windows CE, Calendar, Contacts, Tasks, Voice Recorder, Notes, Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, Pocket Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player 8 (for playing MP3 files), Calculator, Solitaire, Inbox (for e-mail), Microsoft Reader (for reading eBooks), File Explorer, MSN Messenger, Terminal Services Client, VPN Client, Infrared Beaming, Clock, Align Screen, Infrared Beaming Memory, Volume Control, iPAQ Task Manager, iPAQ File Store, iPAQ Backup, and iPAQ Image Viewer.
The iPAQ H5455 comes with a slim removable battery, a USB synchronization cable, an AC adapter, a charging adapter (tethered to the AC adapter), a quick-start user's guide, and an HP iPAQ Pocket PC companion CD-ROM (with Microsoft Outlook 2000, ActiveSync 3.5, add-on applications, and reference guide).
The H5455 comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What's in the box
HP iPAQ Pocket PC
Slim Removable Battery
Protective Cover Pack
Universal Cradle for either Universal Serial Bus (USB) or serial connection
Extra Stylus
AC Adapter
Charging Adapter (tethered to the AC Adapter)
USB synchronization cable
Quick-start user's guide
HP iPAQ Pocket PC companion CD-ROM (with Microsoft Outlook 2000, ActiveSync 3.5, add-on applications, and reference guide)

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HP iPAQ RX3115 Pocket PC Review

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(More customer reviews)My Palm Zire 31 recently died of a traumatic screen impact. I had every intention of replacing it with another of the same, but after poking at handheld display models around town, I decided to upgrade from my Palm to a Pocket PC.
I found the Pocket PC to be aptly named. It really is a pocket sized mini-computer. There's a fossil PC in my basement with less memory, less storage, a slower processor, and absolutely no multi-media capabilities. It cost over $3000 in 1996. The iPaq rx3115 cost 1/10 the price and delivers so much more. I am really impressed.
I chose the rx3115 over the rz1715 because the rx3115 has built in wi-fi and bluetooth. You can buy a wi-fi card for the rz1715, but it costs about $80 and takes up your only SD slot. The rx3115 is $100 more than the rz1715, so it seemed more efficient to just spend the extra $20 on the better model. If you never expect to need wi-fi, go ahead and save the $100. Me, I like being able to access my husband's amazon.com wish list from a Panera Bread parking lot.
The rx3115 starts with the same basic features as any handheld: an outlook compatible calendar, address book, and task list.
In addition to those basics, you get pocket versions of Word and Excel. The built in print manager allows you to print wirelessly from network ready printers.
On top of basic workhorse programs, the rx3115 adds built-in Avantgo software, which allows you to select free news and entertainment channels then download those pages onto the handheld. This means you can read this morning's Wired while standing in line at the DMV.
Then, it takes the multimedia capabilities to a whole new level. You can stream video, music, and photos from a desktop or laptop to your handheld, so if you want to listen to your MP3's from the basement, you don't have to bother copying them onto your SD card. If you want to load an album onto your iPaq, you can do it wirelessly on the way out of the house - no messing with the USB cord needed.
It also acts as a universal remote control, usable on any device with an infrared control. This is a mixed blessing, to say the least. Try to use your powers for good instead of evil, people.
The built in one-touch voice recorder works surprisingly well for (so far) unlimited voice memos. You can manually set the sound quality, so you can get incredibly crisp sound if you're willing to take up a lot of space. The built in speaker is very loud and clear for a device this size.
I like a lot of little details about the rx3115 - namely, the fact that it is slim enough to fit into my tiny little purse when in its hard case, the full size screen (no graffiti area unless you call it up), the ability to flip the screen sideways and back at the push of a button, the very responsive mini-keyboard which is a breeze to pull up or shrink whenever needed, and the one-touch voice memo button.
Finally, it's easy to download additional programs ranging from Age of Empires to ListPro (a very useful and highly recommended program!)
Incidentally, if you don't like the goofy multimedia home screen, you can download other free Pocket PC themes from Microsoft.
Cons:
All that said, this is not the most intuitive device I've ever used. The walk-through is beyond useless. (It tells you things you can do without showing you how.) Finding files can be surprisingly complicated. It looks a lot like Windows XP, but doesn't follow the same well established rules, which can result in some initial confusion.
Some features do not have a back button, so there can be an awkward amount of closing the program and starting over.
Because HP assumes people want this handheld for the sake of watching TV and listening to music, none of the buttons take you to normal handheld destinations, such as calendar, address book, and tasklist. You can reprogram the buttons, but it takes some digging to find how.
The Close and OK button are in the same place, so it's very easy to have half a dozen programs open, all hogging your memory, without realizing it. Separate screen buttons would go a long way to clearing this up.
Basically, you have to spend a little time learning the quirks of the system, but when you do, I find it well worth the time investment.
Other:
Some useful links for additional software include:
illiumsoft.com - makers of listpro
handango.com - quality Pocket PC and Palm pay downloads
pocketgear.com - more quality pay downloads
audible.com - audio books and magazines to download and listen to on your palm or PC.
There are free download sites out there, but I find you get what you pay for. While there are some free gems, but you have to dig pretty far to find them.
Finally, BUY A HARD CASE! Handheld manufacturers all include awful cases and HP is no exception. The screen is much more fragile than you think. One impact and you're out $350 for a handheld - and trust me, once you get hooked, you'll NEED a new one. Amazon sadly lacks good rx3115 hardcases, but I found an excellent one at styluscentral.com. You can find plenty of other cases through Froogle.

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HP's new iPAQ RX3115 enables you to access digital content anywhere in your home, as well as edit, share and print photos directly from the handheld. It features both Bluetooth and wi-fi 802.11b wireless connectivity, a fast 300 MHz processor, 56 MB of user-accessible memory, and an integrated speaker and microphone (as well as a headphone jack).
HP's iPAQ Mobile Media software transforms the RX3115 into the ultimate digital entertainment media device by eliminating the need to stand in front of a TV or PC to browse and access media content. Using the deviceÕs integrated wireless capabilities, you can stream content from a PC to play on the HP iPAQ or to a TV or stereo to share and enjoy in any room of a home. You can also wirelessly download music libraries, movie collections and vacation photos from PCs to the HP iPAQ.
The HP iPAQ RX3115 also includes Nevo Home Control software, allowing control of most home and office audio/video equipment with a single device. With the ability to control hundreds of consumer electronic devices, the RX3115 is the only universal remote control you'll ever need.
Powered by the Professional Edition of Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition software for Pocket PC, the RX3115 enables you to easily manage personal information--from your calendar and appointments to your contacts and inbox--while on the go. Additionally, you can easily transfer files to, or access files from, Secure Digital and MultiMedia Cards via an integrated SD slot. Sync the iPAQ with a PC at home and photos and videos are automatically transferred between your PC and handheld using HP Image Transfer with ActiveSync.
Featuring the Microsoft Windows Media Player 9, the iPAQ RX3115 allows you to watch and hear your favorite video and music on the go. The ability to view content in landscape mode on the 3.5-inch transreflective LCD (in addition to portrait mode) ensures a wider screen for playing favorite videos and games.
What's in the Box HP iPAQ RX3115, AC adapter, USB sync cable, stylus, carrying case, stereo headphones

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Icom IC-M34 VHF Waterproof Marine Two-Way Radio Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this radio for a recent vacation boating on Lake Powell. I wanted the radio for emergency communications and weather monitoring.
The weather monitoring came in crystal clear and was necessary since we were in the middle of the Arizona monsoon season. Fortunately I never needed the radio for emergency reasons, but it gave me peace of mind having it.
The unit is solid and well built. I chose Icom due to my experience as a Radioman in the US Navy. If it's good enough for the Navy, it's good enough for me.

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The Icom IC-M34 VHF Marine Transceiver is the industry's first floating marine VHF hand-held radio. Compact and lightweight, this unit is incredibly powerful, with plenty of smart features that make it the perfect companion for any marine outing, whether it is just a few hours of fishing, or a week-long expedition.
The IC-M34 utilizes an easy-to-read LCD screen with a large 2-digit channel indicator that also displays the volume and SQL levels, and features both screen and key backlighting for easy night time use. This marine transceiver is also easy to use, with nine large buttons on the front panel that provide simple intuitive operation, and an easy-to-hold rounded body that fits securely and comfortably in your hand. The IC-M34 offers quick access to your favorite channels with a favorite channel function that lets you tag your most-used frequencies, as well as providing instant access to channel 16 and channel 9 in case of emergencies. What's more, this unit offers dual- and tri-watch functions, so it can constantly scan channel 16 as well as one or two user-selected channels so you never miss anything important. As an added convenience, the IC-M34 features an auto scan function, a two-step power saver, and weather channel reception with alerts for approaching dangerous weather.
Built tough, the Icom IC-M34 is constructed to not only IPX7 waterproofing standards, which means it can be fully submersed in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes, but has been designed to float in both fresh and salt water, so if you drop it you can quickly and easily retrieve it again. This unit also features an AquaQuake draining function which emits a vibrating sound that clears water away from the speaker grill. The IC-M34 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack that provides up to nine hours of operating time, while a four-step battery indicator lets you know how long you have to go. This unit is completely portable, weighing only 10.8 ounces with the battery in, and measuring 2.44 x 5.56 x 1.69 inches (W x H x D).
What's in the Box Icom IC-M34 marine radio, hand strap, antenna, battery pack, battery charger, AC adapter, belt clip, user's manual and warranty information.

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Jensen VM9313 7-inch Touch Screen MultiMedia Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)Well, I researched it and got this one. For the price I really have no complaints. It may lack a few features like screen savers and all that, but it is actually a really good sounding unit. I love the music videos off of my ipod. (Yes the parking brake "bypass" from the vm9213 does work with this unit) Overall I would say I am extremely happy with my purchase.

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Humminbird SmartCast RF15 3.9-Inch Waterproof Fishfinder Review

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(More customer reviews)Got this as a gift for Christmas when I was shopping with the wife at BassPro here in Orlando. I had been researching these units for a few days after reading about one online. The fact that I could cast out from the shore appealed to me so I chose one of the smartcast models. BassPro had the RF10 on sale and the R15 was the price I had expected the R10 to be so I went with the R15. It includes grey scale and water temp as part of the upgrades from the R10 series.
Over the past two weeks I've taken the R15 out to 4-5 lakes around my area to test it out. Provided I do a nice steady retrive a smooth display of the bottom is presented. I have also seen a fair amount of fish on the display using the Fish ID function. From what I have read on various newgroup posts this feature should generaly be turned OFF. Instead one is supposed to learn how to identify fish using "raw" sonar returns. So far I have not seen any "fish arches". I have a feeling I might need to be in deeper water for this to occur.
Overall the detail is nice and there are four options for displaying the 4 gradations of grey in ordet to highlight either weak or strong returns. One of the limilations of using this near the shore is that is does not do well with shallow depths. It lists 2 feet as the minumum but even depths of 3 feet and a bit more seem to confuse it, giving false returns. I have not tested its actual ability to recognize a return as a fish yet. I say this becuase so far I have not taken my tackle out, just the fishfinder in order to concentrate on learning it. I think I will try adding some bait to a line and attaching this to the small hole provided on the bottom of the RSS to see if it will show any fishing coming up to check it out.
I have had the unit lock up here and there, but unpluging the power cable and reinserting it and then turning on the unit again seems to have solved it. The other day I was getting some weird temp readings, it went from 40F and then back to the correct temp of 71F a few times. I also expienced an anomoly with the display. When set to "Black" mode for bottom detail the unit was only displaying 10H/6V pixels of resolution. Not sure what was up with that and I haven't tested it since then. Perhaps its a battery thing.
Overall I'm really happy with the unit. Sure is nice to be able to see contours of a lake as well as know if fish are in the area. Although the Fish ID might not be perfect you at least know that if nothing is showing on the screen at all to move somewhere else so as to not waste time.

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The Humminbird Smartcast RF15 is a fishfinder designed for the recreational angler ready for a step up from traditional fishing and offers an unmatched level of convenience. This fishfinder may be small, but it has plenty of built-in capabilities, and can provide you with the ultimate in portable sonar in a simple, rugged package.
The Smartcast RF15 utilizes a traditional, single-beam 90-degree sonar to deliver ultra-wide coverage equal to twice the water depth up to 100 feet deep. Vital information is displayed on a big, 3.875-inch display with 160x132 lines of resolution, in a true four-level grayscale that delivers clearly better images of the bottom, fish and structure. The large, easy-to-see digital readout includes a backlight for night fishing, and is powered by eight AA (not included) batteries. This system is designed to be waterproof, and has a 100-foot operating range allowing you to easily travel around without losing your signal.
The Smartcast RF15 comes with a waterproof, programmable Advanced RSS (remote sonar system) for either Channel A or B operation mode, as well as a rugged carrying case with a non-skid bottom and RSS storage. The new illuminated, advanced RSS includes water surface temperature, typically lasts for 500 hours of in-the-water usage, and allows you to purchase replacements that are available on the manufacturer's web site, as well as at your local tackle dealer and major outdoor retailers. The Smartcast RF15 features one-touch menu navigation that allows you to easily control FishID+, depth range, fish alarm, and sensitivity, as well as Wet Switch technology that maximizes battery life by automatically shutting down when the Advanced RSS is out of the water. For those who like to travel light and go fishing anywhere and everywhere, this system is the perfect companion.
What's in the Box RF15 control head, advanced remote sonar sensor, portable carry case, and operation manual.

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General Moblie DSTL1 Imaginary, Android, Dual Sim Technology, Unlocked Cell Phone, 5 megapixel autofocus camera with flash (made by Sony),Wi-fi, Radio, MicroSD Slot, --US Version with Full US Warranty Review

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(More customer reviews)I need a dual-sim and have tried a Samsung, which went unstable after 1 year. I bought this DST-L1 and after the latest sw update I am very pleased with it. It has lots of features - and most of all: it's a good phone with good sound, good sensitivity and good battery economy.
It works fine here in Denmark.
The only thing I lack is Android Market, but there is plenty of other good sw outthere.
I am very pleased with this phone.


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Sony Ericsson W995 Black Walkman Unlocked GSM Cell Phone International Version Review

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(More customer reviews)If anyone do not want to spend extra $$ for smart phone's data plan, this phone would be the best alternative. Great camera, Sony Walkman for MP3, plus wifi, it's definitly a great buy.


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