Features:
- Pocket PC 2002 operating system features improved handwriting recognition and new versions of Pocket Outlook, Word, and Excel
- 64 MB RAM and 32 MB ROM ; 206 MHz Intel StrongARM 32-bit RISC processor
- 240 x 320-inch TFT LCD screen displays more than 4,000 colors
- Pre-installed software includes Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, Pocket Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player (MP3), Inbox (e-mail), Microsoft Reader (e-books), and more
- What's in the box: iPAQ Pocket PC H3835 series, Extra stylus, Protective cover pack, Universal cradle for both USB and serial connections with tether, AC adapter, DC adapter plug
Description:
For many, Compaq's iPAQs were the pick of the first round of Pocket PC releases. Now that Microsoft has released a new version of its Pocket PC operating system (Pocket PC 2002), the company's previous hardware partners have all updated their products and some new players have joined in. The net result is greater competition--so how does Compaq fare? The new range of iPAQ is available in two versions. The iPAQ 3765 is much like the popular 3635 model, but has the new OS on board. The iPAQ 3835, our review unit, is similar in body, but adds a few extra features. The 3835 is driven by Intel's fast StrongARM processor, which runs at 206 MHz, and is outfitted with a healthy 64 MB RAM. The Pocket PC 2002 OS itself is stored on the 32 MB flash ROM, so you should be able to easily install OS updates as they come along. The screen quality is superb and can show over 65,000 colors--a greater color depth than the 3765. Most hardware expansion is provided via an optional CompactFlash expansion jacket, with CF cards and modules from previous iPAQs largely compatible with the iPAQ 3835. Note, however, that this does not carry through to hardware add-ons that use the docking port (such as keyboards), as the connector on the 3835 is different than on the 3635 or 3765. Additionally, there is now a built-in expansion slot onboard that enables you to add both software and hardware to the iPAQ without the need for the CF expansion jacket. This slot is compatible with both Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMediaCard (MMC) memory cards. The iPAQ's design and build quality are superb; this is still the best-looking Pocket PC around. The docking station is both USB and serial--this "one size fits all" approach is intelligent and user friendly. Data input has also been improved, including the ability to register more than one button press at a time, making speedy gaming possible as some light relief from all the serious work you can set the device to. Overall, Compaq's new iPAQ 3835 beats the rest for looks and performance. The built-in SD/MMC expansion card slot is a plus, and the iPAQ becomes an even more powerful productivity machine with the addition of the optional CompactFlash jacket. --Sandra Vogel Pros: - Expansion card slot for SD and MMC cards
- Fast processor and good amount of onboard memory
- Bright screen with great color depth
- Latest Microsoft operating system--Pocket PC 2002
Cons: - Use of CompactFlash cards requires optional expansion jacket
| 
