OS provided:
Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0
Installed RAM:
64 MB
Processor:
Intel 416 MHzXScale
Wireless connectivity:
IrDA,
IEEE 802.11b,
IEEE 802.11g,
Bluetooth 2.0 EDR
Dimensions (W x D x H):
2.8 in x 0.6 in x 4.6 in
Input device type:
Stylus,
Touch-screen,
4-way navigation button
Description:
The Asus Mypal A696 is a Pocket PC-based, business-oriented handheld device.
Compared to other business-oriented handhelds on the market, it is relatively inexpensive at around $415.
You can expand the memory of this unit using Secure Digital (SD), or MMC media.
Runs on Microsoft Windows mobile 5.0.
Pros:
Offers Bluetooth 2.0 EDR, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b, and IrDA wireless capability, which is considerably better than some similarly priced handhelds.
Also, this handheld runs on the Microsoft Windows mobile 5.0 operating system, which is more advanced than some similarly priced handhelds.
Cons:
Since this device runs on Pocket PC, it will work only with Windows, not with Linux or Macintosh operating systems.
Suitability:
Built for those who want a device that can meet the needs of various back-office or industrial applications.
Also, its display, supporting 64,000 colors at 240x320 resolution, makes it adequate for viewing color images.
However, you can use the Bluetooth capability of this device to connect to cell phones and other devices that are similarly enabled.
This handheld will also store and play back MP3 audio files that are stored in the system's memory.
The Wi-Fi (802.11b) capability of this PDA allows you to connect to wireless networks in offices, airports, and in hundreds of public areas (charges may apply).
Value:
In view of its relatively inexpensive price, this handheld has good features for the money.
Note that a similarly capable PDA could cost as much as $465.
Suggestions:
(1) If you plan to enter large amounts of data, consider getting an
external portable keyboard
for your PDA.
(2) For news and reviews of the latest handhelds, visit
the Handhelds Feature on CNET Reviews
.
CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines
product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do
not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information
about how we create Product Briefs,
contact us.
