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Dell Axim X51v

Dell Axim X51v

Postby colsaunders2 » Wed Aug 30, 2006 11:36 pm

Dell Axim X51v

<img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=1117" align="left" border="3"><img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=1122" border="3">

<ul>
<li><a href="#Introduction">Introduction</a></li>
<li><a href="#Design">Design</a></li>
<li><a href="#Accessories">Included Software and Accessories</a></li>
<li><a href="#Performance">Performance</a></li>
<li><a href="#Longevity">Longevity and Stability</a></li>
<li><a href="#Conclusion">Conclusion</a></li></ul>

<a id="Introduction"><b>Introduction</b></a>

The Axim X51v is Dell's latest flagship Pocket PC, featuring a 624 MHz Intel XScale processor, a 3.7 inch 640x480 screen and Intel 2700G Multimedia Accelerator. It also features 256 MB of non-volatile Flash storage memory, 64 MB RAM, and the new Windows Mobile 5 operating system. In addition, the dual wireless capability of 802.11b and Bluetooth v1.2 radios offer connectivity to networks and wireless peripherals. These features make the Axim X51v a powerful and versatile mobile device.
<img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=1118" align="right" border="3"></img>
<a id="Design">Design</a>

The X51v possesses the same sleek and attractive design as the X50 series, weighing in at 6.2 ounces and measuring 4.69 inches long, 2.87 inches wide, and 0.67 inches deep. The front of the device features a 5-way directional pad and keys to launch Calendar, Contacts, Messaging, and Home; and a power button, microphone, and wireless activity lights lie above the screen. The left side has a lock switch, Wireless On/Off and Record buttons. The top offers Secure Digital and CompactFlash slots, along with a headphone jack. Also, the bottom connector allows docking with the included cradle or an optional VGA adapter for presentations. Fortunately, the lithium-ion battery that powers the Axim is readily accessible by unlocking the rear panel, and can even be placed on the cradle for charging.

The one disappointment is the stylus - while it is decently comfortable and easy to use, the tip will invariably scratch the screen if left unprotected. One should definitely use screen protectors with the Axim, especially if using the standard stylus. Otherwise, the form is well-conceived and makes for a very pocketable PDA.

<a id="Accessories">Included Software and Accessories</a>

The Dell "Getting Started" CD includes Microsoft ActiveSync 4.1 and Outlook 2002 for desktop PC connectivity, as well as an assortment of Pocket PC applications and games. There are full versions of BatteryPack Lite, GeoRally 3D, Resco Photo Viewer, and Toy Golf, and trials for many others.

<img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=1116" align="right" border="3">
Also in the box are the cradle, AC adapter, and adapter connector (connects the device directly to the AC adapter). The cradle fits the Axim snugly - perhaps a bit too much so, as undocking the device requires both hands - and also provides room in the base for charging a spare battery. While docked the Axim's battery recharges, indicated by an amber light (which changes to green when fully charged) on the power button, and the ActiveSync utility automatically begins synchronizing data with the desktop. Aside from occasional moodiness from ActiveSync, syncing the device is a quick and simple task.

<a id="Performance">Performance</a>

Powered by the 624 MHz Intel XScale processor, the Axim X51v is a fast and responsive unit while displaying four times as many pixels that a QVGA (320x240) Pocket PC does. In addition, the 16 MB Intel 2700G Multimedia Accelerator handles MPEG-2 video decoding and OpenGL rendering for games. Consequently, tasks such as playing music in the background while browsing the web or looking up contacts are smoothly executed.

<img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_thumbnail.php?pic_id=1114" border="3"> <img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_thumbnail.php?pic_id=1115" border="3"> <img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_thumbnail.php?pic_id=1124" border="3"> <img src="http://www.pro-networks.org/forum/album_thumbnail.php?pic_id=1125" border="3">

Screenshots from Angelfish (left), Toy Golf, Opera 8.6, and Today (right).

While the screen on the X51v may not have the brilliance of the latest handhelds and portable media players, it offers true and realistic colors, as well as sharp display of text. Whether for playing games, viewing pictures and videos, or browsing online, one will not be disappointed.

<a id="Longevity">Longevity and Stability</a>

The X51v is powered by an 1100 mAh lithium-ion battery, which is lower than most other PPC models, but thanks to power management in WM5 it manages to last a while on a full charge:
<ul>
<li>Gaming - 2 1/2 hours</li>
<li>Web browsing - 3 hours</li>
<li>Recording memos - 7 hours</li>
<li>Music playback - 7 1/2 hours</li>
(Estimates recorded by the author using minimum backlighting and 'Auto' CPU frequency)</ul>

Power-saving options include CPU frequency schemes (Maximum Performance, Normal, Power-Saving, and Auto), turning off the WiFi and Bluetooth radios, and adjusting the screen brightness. For most uses the standard battery provides good longevity, but those who make heavy use of gaming and multimedia applications will want the optional 2200 mAh battery.

Generally speaking, the X51v operates consistently and reliably, with most (minor) stability issues coming from the WM5 implemention and older third party software. Occasionally, screen glitches do unexpectedly occur, most likely related to heat or the Intel 2700G and display drivers. A soft reset usually clears up any strange behavior.

<a id="Conclusion">Conclusion</a>

Overall, the Axim X51v is a superb combination of aesthetics, features, and speed. Quite arguably the "ultimate" Pocket PC for these reasons, it makes a perfect mobile companion for the desktop. Offered direct from Dell for $374, the X51v is less expensive than competing high-end Pocket PCs and offers every bit as much in terms of features and performance.

PROs:
<ul><li>Excellent multimedia capabilities</li>
<li>Good battery life (using core applications)</li>
<li>Sleek, lightweight design</li></ul>

Cons:
<ul><li>Device heats up with use</li>
<li>Scratchy stylus</li>
<li>Some stability/compatibility issues with WM5 and third-party apps</li></ul>


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Postby rjcs03 » Thu Aug 31, 2006 1:32 am

is it better than cingulars 8125 pocket pc and tmobiles mda?
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Postby colsaunders2 » Thu Aug 31, 2006 1:47 am

rjcs03 wrote:is it better than cingulars 8125 pocket pc and tmobiles mda?

Comparing strictly by hardware specs, the Axim is definitely superior. However, the main difference is that the Cingular 8125/T-Mobile MDA are designed to be used primarily as phones, while the Axim is a multimedia-centric Pocket PC. It all depends on what you desire from your mobile device :yesnod:
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Postby rjcs03 » Fri Sep 01, 2006 3:58 am

ah... the price says it all.. hehehe thnks man...
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