Amazon.co.uk Review
For many people Compaqs iPAQs were the pick of the Pocket PCs last time around. Now that Microsoft has released a new version of Pocket PC (Pocket PC 2002), the companys previous hardware partners have all updated their products and some new players have joined in. The net result is greater competitionso how does Compaq fare?
The new range of iPAQ come in three versions. The iPAQ H3760 is much like last year's popular models, but has the new Operating System on board. The iPAQ H3870 has Bluetooth built in but in all other respects is identical to this, our review unit, the iPAQ H3850.
It's driven by Intels fast StrongArm processor which runs at 206MHz and is fitted with a healthy 64MB RAM. Pocket PC itself is stored on the 32MB Flash ROM so you should be able to easily install updates of Pocket PC 2002 as they come along. The screen quality is superb and can show up to 65,536 colours. Most hardware expansion is provided via the "jacket" system, with those from previous iPAQs largely compatible with the new range. Additionally, there is now a SD slot on board which should allow you to add both software and hardware to the iPAQ without the need for jackets in the future. This slot will hold both MMC (MultiMedia Card) and SD (Secure Digital) cards.
The overall design and build quality are superb: this is definitely the best looking of the Pocket PCs and at last the system can register more than one button press at a time making speedy gamin possible as some light relief from all the serious work you can put the device to.
The docking station is both USB and Serial--this "one size fits all" approach is intelligent and user friendly. The same can be said for jacket compatibility--anyone with an older iPAQ will be able to use their existing jackets with this one. This does not carry through to hardware add-ons that use the docking port, as the connector on the H3850 and H3870 is a different size to that on the older models. Overall Compaqs new iPAQ range beats the rest for looks and has good expansion capabilities. If you need on board CompactFlash, though, look elsewhere. --Sandra Vogel
Product Description
Sleek, expandable and wireless-enabled, the Compaq iPAQ 3850 Pocket PC offers a powerful mobile computing tool that fits in the palm of your hand. It comes with 64 MB RAM and 32 MB ROM, a fast 206 MHz Intel StrongArm processor and a bright LCD screen that displays 65,000 colours. The iPAQ 3850 features a built-in Secure Digital (SD) card slot for adding more memory and modules, from modems to cameras to GPS receivers. You can also add an optional expansion jacket for using CompactFlash cards.
With the enhancements and improvements in Microsoft's Pocket PC 2002 operating system, the iPAQ 3850 is even more powerful and easier to use. You'll get improved handwriting recognition, more reliable synchronisation, increased security and the ability to chat using MSN Messenger. It also features new Pocket versions of Outlook, Word, Excel and Internet Explorer.
Work hard, but play hard, too. The iPAQ 3850 can play digital audio files (both MP3 and WMA) using the Windows Media Player software. You also get the Microsoft Reader e-book software.
Other highlights include a microphone and a speaker as well as an audio-in jack. The iPAQ 3850 features an infrared port for wireless data transfer. It uses five buttons and a five-way joystick. The iPAQ connects to either USB or serial ports. The iPAQ allows you to input data in your own handwriting, by soft keyboard or by voice recorder. Both audible and visual alarms alert you to a scheduled event.
At 5.3 x 3.3 x 0.62 inches, and weighing 6.7 ounces, the iPAQ 3850 is sporty and small, fitting in your hand or sliding into your pocket with ease. Compaq has also built in utilities, so that frequent actions--such as switching between tasks, adjusting volume and changing backlighting--are only a click away.
The iPAQ 3850 has a built-in lithium rechargeable battery that gives up to 10 hours of battery life. It also comes with a docking cradle, AC adapter for battery charging and a USB connection cable.