HP iPAQ hx2795 Pocket PC (FA676B#ABA) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)(Originally intended title was "It makes the iPod look like a complete waste of $$$...harsh but true")
I have been using my Ipaq hx2795b for a couple of months now, and at first it did have frequent freeze-ups and battery draining issues, especially when using the SD card. But once I updated the BIOS (ROM) to the latest version (you can find it at hp's website), everything works smoothly ever since. Also remember to use the latest version of ActiveSync (4.2 so far), and not the one that comes with the installation CD, and try to use the sync with MS Office Outlook 2003 instead of Office 2002 on your PC/laptop. For the above inconveniences, I'm taking one star off the rating. I believe that's about it, and you're all set to start installing tons of software on your Ipaq.
I use it literally for EVERYTHING (well, phone and camera excluded) -that is, agenda, customer database, ebooks, reference books, review powerpoint presentations, wi-fi, email, msn messenger, bluetooth, watch videos (you can watch entire DVD movies on it, after encoding of course), music (in my opinion it sounds even better than the iPod, was it the earphones?), games, anyway, you name it. I find the Windows Mobile 5 OS quite stable, and the interface feels pretty much the same as using the ordinary desktop Windows. The speed is impressive too. Battery life is good and it charges fast. The display is bright and clear, though I would have preferred a slightly larger screen. The fingerprint reader device is cool. I personally don't use it though, because it delays the otherwise instant power-on of the handheld, but it stands as a great security feature for sure.
Some recommended accessories to enhance your Ipaq are: SD card (i'm already using 70% of its 2GB storage capacity, so I'll soon be looking for an additional CF card; I think it's less cumbersome to have both cards simultaneously in the handheld than to have to switch cards using the same slot), an extra sync/charger/car adapter (I have the BELKIN Ipaq Sync Charger F8Q0003HP), a leather carrying case, and of course, screen adhesive overlays. Some useful or must-have software are: Adobe Reader for PPC, iSilo, Resco explorer, Resco photo viewer, Resco audio recorder, Resco radio, Clearvue presentation, spb Pocket Plus, Trancreative Magic Button, Touch Notes, Pocket informant, TCPMP the core pocket media player (it plays every format that the Windows Media Player doesn't, which are a bunch).
Overall, I'm very happy with my Ipaq hx2795b. For those thinking to own a handheld for the first time but have put off till now (like myself), this is the right moment to do it. The technology in handhelds, both hardware and software-wise, has reached to a level of reliable stability, that makes it worthy enough to try on one of these literally do-it-all gadgets.

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The versatile HP Ipaq HX2795B Pocket PC delivers performance, connectivity, and enhanced security to suit your business and personal needs. This compact and portable computer lets you surf the web, download images and videos, send and receive emails, and view a variety of documents and presentations using Microsoft Office. This portable PC also lets you protect your information using your fingerprint (or fingerprint combined with a personal information number, or PIN). Versatile and easy to operate, the Ipaq offers optimal configurations for performance, connectivity and expandability. With the Ipaq, you'll always be up to date and in touch. Special Features The Ipaq features wireless connectivity integrated Wi-Fi 802.11b and Bluetooth, as well as an expansion slot compatible with Secure Digital (SD) cards. Plus, its built-in, serial-infrared, integrated, biometric fingerprint reader provides convenient security for all your documents and data. To ensure optimum enjoyment of videos and other images, the Ipaq also offers a backlit, 3.5-inch, LCD screen, with power-save mode. It also features a user-available memory of up to 144 MB, which means there's plenty of room to store all your important data. The integrated microphone, speaker, 3.5mm stereo headphone jack, and MP3 stereo (through audio jack and speaker) ensure a high-quality audio experience. How to Get the Most Out of Your Ipaq Ipaq offers a world of personal, professional, and entertainment options at your fingertips. View Microsoft Office documents like Excel charts and Powerpoint presentations, including custom animations and slide transitions. The Premium edition of Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 for Pocket PCs, specifically designed for handheld devices, helps ensure that your system runs smoothly. Save time and remain immediately up to date by using the USB 2.0 desktop synchronization cradle, which enhances file transfer speeds and synchronization of information between your PC and Windows Mobile-based device. The persistent store feature lets you protect data when your device runs out of battery power, while the HP ProtectTools (in collaboration with Credant Technologies) lets you use a PIN or password to control access to your Ipaq with encryption so that your data is protected should your Ipaq get misplaced or stolen. Enjoy images and slide shows using the HP Image Zone software for Pocket PC, and wirelessly print documents, e-mail, brochures, and photos to a Bluetooth-enabled printer. You can also easily transfer files to your Ipaq by communicating with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, and create personal area networks using peer-to-peer communication. Additional Benefits The Ipaq, with its soft, rubber sides and slip-free grip, is easy to carry. You also will appreciate the faster, more flexible playback with enhanced audio and video file formats using Windows Media Player 10. While surfing the Web, get where you want to go fast with the five-way navigation button and four application launch buttons. Expand your capabilities as your needs grow using the Secure Digital (SD) card slot and keep the display clear and free of scratches with the included plastic flip cover. Warranty and Customer Service The Ipaq comes with a one-year limited warranty. You can also rely on HP's renowned total care service and support, which J.D. Power and Associates has recognized as consistently providing "an outstanding customer service experience." What's in the Box HP iPAQ hx2795 Pocket PC, USB desktop synchronization cradle, removable/rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, charger adapter, stylus, protective plastic flip cover, product information guide, and getting started disc.

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