Sharp Zaurus SL-5500 PDA
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $399.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Note: There is a software update available for download at: http://www.myzaurus.com/ROMupdate3.asp

Combining the power of a PC with the fun of multimedia, the Zaurus SL-5500 boasts a powerful Intel StrongARM 206 MHz processor, 64 MB standard memory, an MP3 and MPEG-1 multimedia player, and a voice recorder. It also features a high-resolution color reflective LCD and an integrated keyboard with a sliding cover.

Because of its open-source Linux/Java-based platform (with Qt/Embedded GUI), applications can be easily customized to fit your personal and business needs.

Sharp's built-in QWERTY keyboard design allows easy data input without sacrificing space. In addition to the keyboard, you can use the stylus and touchscreen to navigate through applications with ease.

Incorporating Sharp's leading LCD technology, the Zaurus SL-5500 has a high-definition color reflective TFT screen with over 65,000 colors and a 240 x 320 resolution. You'll get bright, vivid color no matter what the lighting, making it simple to view a movie or pop in a video while on the move.

The two built-in slots for Secure Digital (SD) and CompactFlash (CF) cards provide dual expansion capabilities and simultaneous use of accessories such as optional modems, memory, LAN cards, and digital cameras. The Zaurus SL-5500 is compatible with a number of modem options for maximum flexibility in communication.

The Zaurus SL-5500 comes equipped with an extensive software application package including address book, calendar, calculator, text editor, to-do list, and Word and Excel viewing and editing capabilities. Its PC synchronization program for Microsoft Outlook makes it easy to keep all information up-to-date. The Zaurus also comes complete with a docking station that features an integrated USB cable and AC adapter for easy synchronization and battery recharging.

The Sharp Zaurus SL-5500 comes with an AC power adapter and cord, USB synchronization cradle, stylus, display-protection cover, and rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

What's in the box

• Zaurus SL-5500
• EA-70 AC Adaptor
• Docking Station (USB)
• AC Adapter and Power Cord
• Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
• Stylus
• Display Protection Cover
• CF Slot Protection Card

... Read more

Features

• Linux/Java-powered handheld computer with 64 MB RAM, 206 Mhz Intel processor, and organization and productivity software
• High-resolution color reflective TFT screen with support for over 65,000 colors
• Integrated QWERTY keyboard that slides out from bottom of handheld
• Listen to MP3 or watch MPEG video; includes stereo headphone jack
• What's in the box: Zaurus SL-5500, EA-70 AC Adaptor, Docking Station (USB), AC Adapter and Power Cord, Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery, Stylus, Display Protection Cover, CF Slot Protection Card

Reviews (74)

After one year and alot of abuse, its still running strong
I purchased my Zaurus sl-5500 over a year ago and have never been disapointed.I choose the sharp pda because of the short lifespan that plagues most pda models (ahem... ipaq...).I had owned several sharp products in the past, including an imported md player , and still have all of them running strong.Sticking by sharp was definitly a good choice, because my zaurus has taken all kinds of beatings and is still running perfect.My zaurus has been dropped in a toilet, fallen out of my pocket while skateboarding, been tossed around all over the place, frozen, and sat on. Although the plastic casing has its share of scratches and dings, the zaurus still performs perfectly.I have it coupled with an ambicom wifi card and have loved its wireless support.I can scroll instant message and surf ubersite from the toilet with ease.I have changed the gui and have added all kinds of software and never had a problem with the system.I was afraid that my lack of knowledge would hurt my ability to use and take advantage of the zaurus's capabilities, but the software is intuitive and easy to use.The zaurus runs great as a stock pda, but it excels in its custamizability and compatability.I would recomend the zaurus to anyone looking for a pda, above any other brand.

Great PDA for the money
Right now the 5500 is around $200 and it is hard to beat this PDA at that price. Sure the 5600 and 6500 have fancier features, but they are still priced too high. The best thing about the Sharp Zaurus running Linux is the enormous amount of free software that has been developed for it. You can make this little PDA do ANYthing! My only gripe is that Sharp hasn't put more effort into making syncing the Zaurus with Linux easier out of the box. It's as if they assumed a Linux PDA would only be popular with Windows and Mac users. How dumb is that? Otherwise, my favorite PDA.

The swiss army knife of palmtops
After reading a variety of reviews on a number of palm devices, I decided to try the Zaurus.So far, I havn't been dissapointed with my decision.The Zaurus GUI is responsive and the applications appear to work well and intuitively.The text reader application did lock up on a huge file. Other than that, no problems.

As stated previously, this product's greatest strength is the Linux OS that lies underneath rhe hood. I've downloaded a few UNIX shell based tools that have compiled and worked without a hitch. I love using Opera with a d-link cf wireless card. It required almost no tweaking and works great.The Zaurus is made of plastic but appears to be fairly durable. The battery is a bit underpowered on 5500 (The 5600 has a battery 2X larger.)

If you plan on networking the 5500, read the security information regarding ftp weaknesses in early models.

Overall, a great value for $200! ... Read more

Asin: B000063D6E

Targus PA025U International Travel Power and Phone Adapters
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
-- our price: $22.83
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This set of international travel power and phone adapters lets you plug in your phone or electrical appliance anywhere and get work as easily as a local. Each adapter is clearly labeled for easy identification, and the set comes with an 8-foot retractable phone cord and coupler. The kit is compatible with most laptops. Its warranty covers 12 months parts and 12 months labor. ... Read more

Features

• Power Your Notebook: Compatible In Over 100 Countries; Allows You to Power Your Notebook Wherever You Are
• Stay Connected: with The Included Phone Adapters You Can Get Online and Stay In Touch Anywhere
• Designed for Travel: Lightweight Design and Convenient Travel Pouch Allows You to Take Your Adapters Anywhere

Reviews (1)

Does what it intends to do
I bought this package for my recent trip to Europe.I used these adapters for my laptop.Now many people think that these are converters and they are not.They are adapters, please read your product manual to see if your electronic equipment will work with these.My laptop worked like a charm with these adapters.I used these in Germany and Italy with no problem.
... Read more

Asin: B00006B91Y

Linksys USB100M EtherFast 10/100 Compact USB Network Adapter
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $56.99 -- our price: $25.64
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• 1-year limited warranty
• Compact size allows for greater flexibility
• Connect to any Ethernet or Fast Ethernet network from your computers USB port
• For desktop or notebook computers
• Plug-and-play compatible with Windows 98, 2000, Me, and XP

Reviews (16)

DON'T BUY IT
As others have noticed, fragile design.I broke it, and I was being gentle.Had to replace it with same model, though, since USB to Ethernet adaptors are not easy to come by (TiVo, thanks a lot for making customers go through this).

I long for TiVo's next generation, when I hope they'll have an ethernet plug in the back.

If you're stuck getting this one, like me, be *extremely* careful plugging it in.

WHO CARES HOW GREAT A PRODUCT IS IF IT BREAKS ALL THE TIME!!
Real simple: DONT BUY THIS PRODUCT!! While it works exactly as it says, it WILL fall apart VERY easily and is UNFIXABLE when it does.I bought this item to network my Tivo, and it worked perfectly.This item has these two metal hinges that feel like they are hanging by a thread.The ethernet cable has to be jammed in at the perfect angle, and if even the slightest bit of force is applied, you will have one broken piece of plastic ethernet adapter!!

I did not follow the warnings about the cheapeness of the item, and I paid the price.It broke the SECOND time I handled it, and now I have to replace it.I should have listened.And chances are you wont listen either.But Im telling you this right now: BE SMARTER THEN I WAS!! DONT BUY THIS PRODUCT!!! Buy one of the other products on the market that do EXACTLY what this one does.Spend the extra cash...heck spend double if you have to!! Because this product WILL break for you FAST! It will crumble in your hands like it did for me, and will leave you standing there mouth agape that any company could produce such a cheap product!!

But hey, you're gonna do what you want to do.So what do I care?Buy this...you'll see...and dont say you weren't warned when you are standing there crying with some plastic pieces in your hand!!

This product deserves 0 stars because it doesn't exactly matter how functional this product is when it breaks before you even have a chance to use it.

-propynyl

Beware the flimsy construction
This product works fine as long as you do not wiggle the ethernet cord.Too much wiggle, and the ethernet cord will pop out, along with breaking the little door that holds the RJ-45 connector on.It is *impossible* to fix.

Another reason not to like this product is that it is USB 1.x, and not USB 2.x.This is OK if you are only working on a 10Mbps (Mega bit per second) ethernet; but most people are now going to 100Mbps (and some to 1000Mbps) where USB1.x is totally antique.USB2.x at least has the speed to work with a viable 100Mbps network.

Having had to replace TWO of these because of the top reason, I cannot recommend this unless you have your PC/Tivo/whatever bolted down, or rack mounted. ... Read more

Asin: B00005Y7DO
Sales Rank: 9984
Subjects:  1. Adapters    2. Accessories (Accessory)    3. Networking (Network)    4. NIC (Interface Card, Cards)    5. USB Hub (Hubs)    6. Linksys   

Linksys USBHUB4C ProConnect Compact USB 4-Port Hub
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $52.00 -- our price: $11.07
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Specially designed for PCs equipped with a USB port, the Proconnect compact USB four-port hub from Linksys offers instant connectivity for up to four USB devices. Plug in peripherals like digital cameras, Ethernet adapters, modems, printers, mice, keyboards, scanners, and portable data storage devices in seconds.

Ready to run, right out of the box, this compact USB four-port hub makes high-speed, low-cost expansion a snap. The hub allows four USB devices to be configured and ready for use as soon as you plug them in. Equipped with advanced hot-swap technology, the hub even lets you attach or detach USB devices while your computer is on, making it possible to switch devices on the fly!

The Linksys Proconnect compact USB four-port hub offers data transfer rates of up to 12 Mbps, which makes it perfect for speed-hungry multimedia, gaming, and Ethernet networking applications. For added expandability, you can daisy chain the hub to additional USB hubs. Use up to 127 USB devices at the same time. ... Read more

Features

• Plug and play
• Access up to 4 USB devices simultaneously
• Offers simultaneous access to all devices
• Fast 12 Mbps data transfer rate
• Daisy-chain multiple USB hubs together

Reviews (90)

Good for a laptop
For the price, this hub is a steal.

I've got a Dell laptop, so I've only got 2 USB ports to work with. This device is good for expanding a little bit, but you can't go overboard: the hub isn't powered.So far, I've had no problems with a printer/scanner/copier, optical mouse, and USB memory key all plugged in at the same time.

Just think about what you're jacking into it before you buy it.

Linksys USBHUB4C ProConnect Compact USB 4-Port Hub
I recieved the Linksys USBHUB4C ProConnect Compact USB 4-Port Hub exactly when I was told it would arrive. Great and quick service for Amazon.com,and the product was what I was looking for and at a good price too. I would buy from Amazon.com again. They have my business.

Wonderful
I love this little hub. When I sit at my desk with my laptop, I can connect my printer, usb mouse, scanner, and digital voice recorder cradle in one easy step. I was worried aout not having sufficient power through the usb based on reviews, but this has not been a problem. I have had it around 4 months and it works wonderfully. I've also used it on my desktop to make swapping the above mentioned devices between computers. ... Read more

Asin: B0000658CH
Subjects:  1. Networking (Network)    2. Hub (Hubs)    3. USB Hub (Hubs)   

Targus CCB1 Notebook Backpack - Black (High Density Nylon)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $99.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Specifically Designed to Carry a Notebook Computer and Accessories
• Adjustable Padded Divider
• Cushioned Back Pad
• Oversized Front Accessory Pocket (11.5 X 9.5 X 2 In)
• Business Card Holder

Reviews (5)

Changing Styles?
This is a well-made, attractive backpack suitable for today's business world.I bought this to be able to consolidate what needs to be carried to work.Upon receiving it, I kept all the tags on it and loaded/unloaded the pack over several days and was seriously considering sending it back.It has nice compartments and the computer is well protected.The pack travels well, but I think it is more awkward/heavier than carrying a briefcase style computer bag. I have been using backpacks for various things for thirty years and it seems there is something not quite right with the design.When I grab the shoulder strap to hoist it out of my car, it reminds me that it is a bit of a pain.

Plenty of space and pockets, not very comfortable
The Targus Notebook backpack is as advertised: a backpack optimized to carry a notebook.It features a padded pocket for the laptop and other compartments for all the junk that you need to bring with the laptop.

The only real drawback is that when fully loaded with a 6 to 8 lb. laptop, it's a very uncomfortable backpack.The straps just aren't adjustable enough to fit the wide range of shoulders in our office and most people who travelled with it reported pain and fatigue after a 1/2 hour of use.

This item is okay for short totes, but I wouldn't want to try dashing across an airport with a one or doing something else that requires me to wear it for a long period of time.However, if you must have a backpack for your laptop then this would be the one to get.

This is not a accessory for large format (16") notebooks
For people who are buying 16" LCD notebooks this is not the carry case for you. ... I purchased the notebook as well as this carry case. When I received the order I realised that the notebook would not fit in the carry case.... ... Read more

Asin: B00004Z78B
Sales Rank: 32794
Subjects:  1. Accessories (Accessory)    2. Bags (Bag)    3. Cases (Case)    4. Notebook (Note Book)    5. Laptop   

Magellan Meridian Gold Handheld GPS Receiver with Waterproof Exterior
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (15 October, 2001)
list price: $299.99 -- our price: Too Low To Display
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

With 16 MB of built-in map data and a Secure Digital Memory Card slot, the Magellan Meridian Gold Global Positioning System receiver gives you almost unlimited ability to access and store location information. This rugged handheld GPS unit coordinates data from up to 12 satellites to pinpoint your location anywhere on the globe. The Meridian Gold's 16 MB base map gives you detailed information on U.S. cities, interstates, and waterways. Slide in a data card to get even more detail, or use a memory card to store waypoints and routes.

The Meridian Gold is PC compatible and stores up to 500 waypoints and 20 reversible routes with up to 30 legs. It also comes with a quadrifilar helix antenna for optimal satellite signal reception and fast position fixes. WAAS and EGNOS capability adds to the versatility of this receiver, which can be operated in English, French, German, Dutch, Finnish, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, or Swedish.

See your exact position on the Meridian Gold's seven navigation screens and vertical-profile graphs that show elevations of the route traveled. The oversized grayscale display allows you to easily see location information and comes with a backlight and backlit keypad for use even in dim light. Waterproof rubber armoring and an ergonomic, compact design add to the Meridian Gold's functionality.

The Meridian Gold is compatible with Magellan's MapSend software, including MapSend Streets Europe and the recently released MapSend Topo for the United States. Vehicle, bike, and swivel mounts are sold separately. ... Read more

Features

• Waterproof; rugged, ergonomic design
• Oversize gray-scale screen with backlight; includes serial PC interface
• 12-channel GPS unit with 16 MB base map
• Built-in detail on U.S. cities, interstate highways, major roads, parks, waterways, and airports
• Secure Digital memory-card slot for expanded storage

Reviews (29)

Read the directions, all of them
After reading the reviews from others I am posting a reply to some problems others have had with the Magellan Meridian Gold. I have been using mine for two years, I have also used other Magellan products as well was Garmin products. I have sold GPS gear going beck to before the first gulf war and I have been a retail GPS buyer, I have put issues that others have had in quotes, followed by some simple explanations.

"The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is that it does have the rebound effect or whatever"

Well this is a non issue, if you are geocaching you are going to start looking for a cache when you are within 20-30 feet, just put the GPS in your pocket and start looking.


"I find the Magellan software to be a bit primative. For example, if you add map data for a region to the Meridian memory, it erases all the old map data you had before."

Not if you use a card reader


"Probably the strangest shortcoming is that you can't get the unit to display the map, speed, and odometer at the same time!"

You have to customized the screen to do this.

"The Ugly: Magellan's method of setting routes and backtracking is absolutely terrible for my usage. I am so annoyed with this, I would return it if I hadn't already used it 2 weeks. Here's the deal -
If you go out for the day and retrace your route exacty, or just set it for the car in general it works very well. But so does a few cents worth of flagging, popcorn, or the cheapest GPS available."

Well, this is what a backtrack is, I do not know what this reviewers use would be, but it appears to not be the norm.

"Okay, so you set waypoints along your way using the GPS. Great, it does this well with 2 clicks. But THEN what??? It's back to the problem above."

This person does know what a back track is.

"The GPS consistently showed me 50-500 feet from my actual location."

In two years on using my Meridian gold I have never had this problem, check the map datum

Great all round use GPS
I've had my MeriGold for a little over a year now and have been completely satisfied.

I use it in cars, planes, hiking and geocaching.It has great features, but especially the expandable memory is what made the decision for me.

The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is that it does have the rebound effect or whatever, but it is minimal and easily dealt with if you know about it.It really only is an issue while geocaching.In a car or plane or even hiking, it wouldn't be an issue.

Good GPS for Bicycling
I use the Meridian mounted to my bicycle, and have found it to be excellent!It's accurate, and works fine under even heavy foliage.The display is generally easy to read, and it's easy to operate while pedeling.

I rode 350 miles in nearly constant heavy downpours of rain during the 2004 Bon Ton Roulet ride in the Finger Lakes region of New York.Without any additional water protection, the unit came through like a champ!

The bicycle mount Magellan sells is not suitable or use without modifications.The first time I ran over a large bump, the Magellan GPS unit popped off the mount and slammed into the pavement.The good news is that the unit survived with no damage.A little stick-on velcro was all it took to prevent a recurrance - though I now also tie the wrist strap to the bike as an additional safety measure.

I find the Magellan software to be a bit primative.For example, if you add map data for a region to the Meridian memory, it erases all the old map data you had before.On the other hand, the tracking function is fun - upload the track to your computer, and you can watch the history of your progress as a moving pip on the map.All this requires extra software of course.

Probably the strangest shortcoming is that you can't get the unit to display the map, speed, and odometer at the same time!So on a ride with cue sheets, one is constantly toggling back and forth between the odometer and the map.You can disply all kinds of other useless combinations of data you would never want - but the one that is built-in to every vehicle ever made (distance and speed) isn't available when the map is shown!

A set of batteries lasts me about one solid day of riding (maybe 8 hours or so).The map display is easy to read.Some of the other data (the odometer, for example) consists of black on a dark background, and can be hard to read.

Despite its shortcomings, which could be easily addressed, I really enjoy my Magellan Meridian - it's gotten me out of trouble more than once, and its extremely relliable and rugged. ... Read more

Asin: B00005OLY8
Subjects:  1. Global Positioning Systems (GPS)    2. 990437    3. GPS (Global Positioning System)    4. PDA    5. Laptop    6. map (mapping)    7. navigation   

Apple 10 GB 2nd Generation iPod M8740LL/A
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The iPod is not just for Macs anymore. Windows users can now join the iPod revolution, and enjoy several exceptional new iPod features as well. The 10 GB Windows model packs 2,000 songs and a 10-hour battery life into a stunning 6.5-ounce package, and Apple ups the ante with new MusicMatch software; a redesigned, touch-sensitive scroll wheel; red-hot FireWire digital file transfers; a wired remote control; and an overhauled calendar/scheduler.

The iPod’s setup and interface are simple: just plug it into your PC and all your songs and playlists are automatically downloaded into iPod at blazing FireWire speed--typically 15 seconds or less. (FireWire is also known to PC users as i.Link and IEEE 1394.) Don’t forget that the player also doubles as a FireWire drive for applications and other files. This new model also comes with a FireWire port cover to protect the player from dirt and other gunk.

In addition to its 10 GB hard drive, iPod has a 32 MB memory cache. The cache is made of solid-state memory, meaning that it has no moving parts, so it's not affected by movement of the device. Skip protection on the iPod works by continually preloading up to 20 minutes of music into the cache.

The iPod has a large, high-quality LCD (liquid crystal display) for viewing up to six lines of text. And the LCD features an LED (light-emitting diode) backlight for clear visibility in low-light situations--indoors or outdoors. Pocket-size and just 6.5 ounces, it weighs appreciably less than the stack of CDs it can store music from.

Featuring MusicMatch software, the iPod can synchronize with newly added music files and playlists. Simply plug the iPod back into your PC and the changes are automatically updated in seconds. With MusicMatch, you can rip MP3s, create playlists, and burn custom CDs all from one simple interface. And thanks to a cool new partnership with audible.com, you can now download audiobooks to the iPod.

You can also download your calendar and schedule to the iPod from applications like Outlook and Palm Desktop. Plus, the iPod now has a built-in digital clock.

The iPod's rechargeable lithium-polymer battery is charged using the FireWire cable when connected to your PC. You can also recharge the iPod using the included FireWire cable and AC adapter when you're on the go.

The iPod supports MP3 (up to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR (variable bit rate), WAV, and AIFF files, and is firmware upgradeable. To use the iPod with your PC, you'll need a FireWire port and you must be running either Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows XP Home or Professional.

The unit comes with a wired remote control, revamped earbud-style headphones, a FireWire cable, power adapter, and CD-ROM with MusicMatch. It's backed by a 90-day limited warranty. ... Read more

Features

• MP3 Audio
• System requirements: PC with built-in FireWire or Windows-certified FireWire card; Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows XP Home or Professional
• Includes wired remote control, remodeled headphones, Musicmatch Jukebox Plus software and carrying case with belt clip
• Discontinued by manufacturer, replaced by model #M8946LL/A
• FireWire interface for fastest digital transfer available; covered FireWire port
• Download audiobooks from Audible.com; keep up to date with new calendar/scheduler and built-in clock

Reviews (75)

Apple's Seeds of Joy
I take my iPod everywhere, I have had it since Christmas, it is the single most useful invention I have ever owned, I have my whole Hip-Hop collection on it. But a few weeks ago it said I only had .5 gb left and I only 800 songs on it, but after a quick reset and reload of songs (it took 5 minutes honest!) it was back to new. You should definately get a case for these, I have kept mine in a case for its whole life and it looks as good as new.

Pros: Holds all but the biggest music collections, great quality in sound and product, long battery life, great software

Cons: Occasionally crashes

For all those people that say by a cheaper mp3 player I used to have the iRiver, and I through it out of my window 1 day because it was so terrible, trust me the ipod is the best designed and for the price you are paying you get more songs.

Best There Is!!!
Just got the 10-gig I-pod Friday (picked up on sale as Apple is dropping 10-gig in favor of "mini" and "15-gig").All I can say is awesome.I never had Apple before and was skeptical.But all my fears were erased.I have a 6 month-old Compaq at home and had no problems getting the two to sync up.Literally "plug and play".Bonus is, if your Windows PC has a newer fire-wire port, it will even charge the I-pod while downloading music.I have about 250 songs (20 albums) on it right now, and using just over 2-gig.I read a lot about people having problems sync-ing their window-based PCs to I-pod.Based on my experience, I can only guess they are using older PCs (I have a pentium-4, 2.2, 256).One tip, if you're "ripping" CDs to put on your I-pod, be logged into the web.I-tunes will literally fill out all the song/track information for you (a little tid-bit I found by accident).

Nomad beats the Ipod by a Mile
I have recently got an Ipod and I thought is was the best Mp3 player until I did a lot of looking around. The Nomad Jukebox Zen Xtra kicks the Ipod so much.

Pros:
1. Eax sound feature which is creatives sound card technoligy so it sounds a lot better
2. The 30gb Nomad cost $300 while the 10gb Ipod cost $400
3. built for windows. No firewire stuff.
4. better features and custmizing
5. no need to use musicmatch or anything just install software and you can put any song on it no matter where the location.
6. big screen with blue backlight.
7. Can replace rechargeable battery
8. Up to 60gb hard drive

Cons:
1. A little bigger than the Ipod ... Read more

Asin: B00006FDR5
Subjects:  1. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple    2. Portable Audio    3. MP3 MP 3 Player    4. Jukebox    5. MP3 Player (MP 3)    6. Apple    7. (Mac)    8. (Macintosh)    9. Gigabyte    10. 5GB    11. 5 GB   

Seiko DF4033 Six Language Translator, Organizer and Travel Alarm
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $29.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Travel easily through Europe using this Seiko six-language translator with organizer and travel alarm. Cross-translate English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese with the database of 200,000 words and phrases.

The organizer stores more than 160 names with multiple phone numbers and addresses. Other features include world time for 32 cities, and a travel alarm with 10-minute snooze.

Entries are easy to read even in dim light with the backlit LCD display, and you can enter information using the full keypad and function keys. Password protection keeps your private data from prying eyes. This translator weighs only 6.5 ounces and comes with a one-year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• World time for 32 cities, travel alarm; clock with 10-minute snooze
• Backlit display for easy viewing in dim lighting
• Cross-translation of English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese
• Translates over 200,000 words and phrases
• Stores more than 160 names with multiple phone numbers/addresses

Reviews (3)

Very disappointed - limited dictionary
I bought this device because I thought it might help me on a vacation to Spain. Boy was I disappointed. The number of words especially common travel/tourism related-words, that it knows is small. The unit is hard to operate. Even the travel alarm is poorly implemented. Save your money. Buy something else (like a good phrase book).

Disappointing, I returned it.
... Unfortunately,while I found it very easy to operate and very compact, I found using it to be quite disappointing.The first word I looked up was the German equivalent of "train" but the Seiko didn't contain "train," "train station" nor "locomotive" in its dictionary.Considering that much of European travel is done by train, it seems a pretty basic word that should have been included in an item aimed at European travellers.Ironically, they did include "trainer," which I think is far less necessary than train.The currency converter is useless - most of the buttons are for currencies no longer in existence since the Euro is now the standard in most European nations.

Almost all handheld multi-language translators have some common drawbacks and this one is no execption.Here are some examples:In order to translate a verb, you must provide the infinitive version in the foreign language.No gender articles are provided.The vocabulary word total given is for all of the words combined from each language -not for each individual language.This type of device is really just meant to provide catch-phrases and very basic vocabulary only.The Seiko was much easier to operate than others - I did not have to read the directions to figure out how to select the desired language and it was easy to figure out how to enter words.Also, the Seiko is backlit and easy to read - the letters are very clear and huge.It is sturdy looking and sleek,fitting easily into a pocket.Despite these positives, I found it much less expensive and much faster to look up words & phrases in a tiny traveller's dictionary/phrasebook.Therefore,I am returning the Seiko.

Nice for the price
The Seiko DF4033 Language Translatoris a nice little unit. It's small enough to fit into a shirt pocket, but it will bulge a bit, since it is about 3/4 of an inch thick. It has a backlight which makes it easier to read the screen in dim light. However, each of the keys serves two functions: the main function (such as a letter or numeric value) is printed right on the key and is easy to read, whereas the secondary function (attained by pressing the SHIFT key)is printed in orange over black making it harder to read even in normal lighting and I've found it impossible to read in dim light.

The unit is somewhat intuitive and appears well constructed. It has a number of phrases in various categories (accommodations, dining, health, shopping, travel, etc) that could come in handy. But, like most of these units, I've found the number of such phrases to be very limited. The alarm clock is a nice feature as is the phone directory. And you can even replace the battery without losing your stored data. You have 30 seconds to do so!

The letters on the screen itself are large and easy to read, but this limits the number of letters that can be seen at one time to only 12 per line. You can see the additional letters by pressing the scroll key. However, in translating some of the phrases the first few letters of a word can appear at the right end of screen on the first line and when you press the scroll arrow the screen image jumps to the remaining letters, essentially bisecting the word(you never see the entire word at the same time.) It would have been better if theyhad wrapped the phrase into the second line on the main screen so you would not have to scroll at all.

I think it would have been a nice feature if the translated word also showed the gender, where appropriate, and if phonetic assistance in pronouncing the foreign word was provided. There is room to do so on the second line of the display. Unfortunately, I have not found any reasonably priced translators that will do so, including this one.

Overall I like the unit and for the price I think it is a pretty good deal. For the casual traveler who does not know the language I expect that it will serve you (and me) well. ... Read more

Asin: B000056WOQ
Subjects:  1. Electronic Foreign Language Dictionaries (Translators)