Compaq iPAQ 3835 Color Pocket PC
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

For many, Compaq's iPAQs were the pick of the first round of Pocket PC releases. Now that Microsoft has released a new version of its Pocket PC operating system (Pocket PC 2002), the company's previous hardware partners have all updated their products and some new players have joined in. The net result is greater competition--so how does Compaq fare?

The new range of iPAQ is available in two versions. The iPAQ 3765 is much like the popular 3635 model, but has the new OS on board. The iPAQ 3835, our review unit, is similar in body, but adds a few extra features.

The 3835 is driven by Intel's fast StrongARM processor, which runs at 206 MHz, and is outfitted with a healthy 64 MB RAM. The Pocket PC 2002 OS itself is stored on the 32 MB flash ROM, so you should be able to easily install OS updates as they come along. The screen quality is superb and can show over 65,000 colors--a greater color depth than the 3765.

Most hardware expansion is provided via an optional CompactFlash expansion jacket, with CF cards and modules from previous iPAQs largely compatible with the iPAQ 3835. Note, however, that this does not carry through to hardware add-ons that use the docking port (such as keyboards), as the connector on the 3835 is different than on the 3635 or 3765.

Additionally, there is now a built-in expansion slot onboard that enables you to add both software and hardware to the iPAQ without the need for the CF expansion jacket. This slot is compatible with both Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMediaCard (MMC) memory cards.

The iPAQ's design and build quality are superb; this is still the best-looking Pocket PC around. The docking station is both USB and serial--this "one size fits all" approach is intelligent and user friendly. Data input has also been improved, including the ability to register more than one button press at a time, making speedy gaming possible as some light relief from all the serious work you can set the device to.

Overall, Compaq's new iPAQ 3835 beats the rest for looks and performance. The built-in SD/MMC expansion card slot is a plus, and the iPAQ becomes an even more powerful productivity machine with the addition of the optional CompactFlash jacket. --Sandra Vogel

Pros:

• Expansion card slot for SD and MMC cards
• Fast processor and good amount of onboard memory
• Bright screen with great color depth
• Latest Microsoft operating system--Pocket PC 2002

Cons:

• Use of CompactFlash cards requires optional expansion jacket

... Read more

Features

• Pocket PC 2002 operating system features improved handwriting recognition and new versions of Pocket Outlook, Word, and Excel
• 64 MB RAM and 32 MB ROM ; 206 MHz Intel StrongARM 32-bit RISC processor
• 240 x 320-inch TFT LCD screen displays more than 4,000 colors
• Pre-installed software includes Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, Pocket Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player (MP3), Inbox (e-mail), Microsoft Reader (e-books), and more
• What's in the box: iPAQ Pocket PC H3835 series, Extra stylus, Protective cover pack, Universal cradle for both USB and serial connections with tether, AC adapter, DC adapter plug

Reviews (77)

I've Had This For Over A Year And I Still Love It!!!
I looked online for hours to find an affordable PDA that would allow me to do everything I wanted.I'm a full time college student and I find I can take notes, set up appointments and have my schedule on demand.I have my tasks organized and get more accomplished.I can also pull up phone numbers and email addresses of friends, teachers, and even restaurants when my friends and I order out.Plus I can play games while waiting for my next class to start.It also synchronizes perfectly with my desktop computer's version of Microsoft Outlook.I can download maps to my PDA for trips with step-by-step driving directions.The PDA is light and I can carry it in my purse all the time without it weighing me down.The unit has held up great for the year and few months I've had it.I know that newer systems have come out since I bought this back in November of 2002, but if you find a new or used version of this PDA I wouldn't hesitate to buy it.I also bought, and would recommend, a zippered holder that is waterproof (I spill things on my nightstand a lot.)It also helps protect the unit if you drop it.The only other thing you might want is to buy the memory expansion card.It's only about $35 and it triples your memory.You'll find that you can fill up your memory a lot faster than you think. (I buy too many e-books from Amazon!) I really think this is a good PDA for a student or anyone else and I take mine with me everywhere.

Best Business PDA Tool I have used
I have owned Several Palm Based PDs and one Palm Smart Phone.This is by far the best of the bunch.I never thought I could use a PDA as a palm comuter, but this product does it hands down.I am an oustside sales person and really need to have access to my Act Database and need to be able to access several XL files.Not only does this product provide me the access and editing tools it also allows me to print via IR to a protable printer in my car.Now my lap top stays in the trunk and my PDA travels with me.BIG Thumbs up.

I'm going back to a Palm!!
When I originally bought this PDA it had such great reviews and I though it would be a good replacement/upgrade for my old Palm (that never gave me any trouble by the way). I have had it for over 6 months now and I have been so unhappy with its performance. The battery life is horrible!! I travel a lot and need something that I don't need to charge twice a day. I don't play games or read books on it, so I don't use up the battery life that way. The worst thing is that unlike Palms you lose everything if your battery runs out!!!! Who ever heard of that. If you keep backing up to your computer you can restore it, but you really have to be on the ball with that, because if you don't too bad it's gone! I will admit it is a nice looking machine that has some nice features, but I just bought a new Palm because I need something I can rely on. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QEYI
Subjects:  1. Hewlett Packard (Hewlett-Packard)    2. Personal Digital Assistant (PDA, Electronic Organizer)    3. Pocket PC (PCs)    4. Compaq    5. Handheld (Hand Held)    6. Casio    7. Hewlett-Packard    8. (HP)    9. (Hewlet Packart)   

Compaq Presario 2701US Notebook (1-GHz Pentium III, 512 MB RAM, 30 GB hard drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

As a notebook for business or entertainment, Compaq's Presario 2701USoffers a combination of solid features and price that is tough to beat. Itboasts a 1 GHz Pentium III processor, 512 MB of RAM, a 15-inch, active-matrixflat-panel screen, and both an 8x (write) CD-RW and 8x DVD-ROM drive. Alsoincluded are a 30 GB hard disk, a 56K modem, and a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet NIC. Toround out this Presario's versatile package, Compaq has pre-installed WindowsXP, Microsoft's new operating system that combines the stability of Windows 2000with better support for peripherals and games. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Presario 2700EA (not US) - ticking timebomb!
Like the others I loved my little toy - good performance (but not great as I used to get the odd few crashes now and then), solid build quality and a fancy looking gagdet indeed. However, after 2 years use it has developed this annoying habit of powering down suddenly after a few minutes use. Not much good to write a thesis on which was why I bought it.

I'm still in the 'realisation phase' of post laptop-disaster trauma meaning I'm just finding out what's going on and realising that running a virus checker and a simple reinstall of OS won't fix it.Looking on the web tells me this seems to be a recognized fault with this model (to everyone but Compaq it seems!)

Compaq/HP customer service is apparently useful,... but is actually almost utterly useless!The service reps on the phone simply point you to the closest thing that they find on their own website - which is not a lot really for this model.BTW when your Presario 2700 breaks like mine -you remember they didn't send you a manual?... That's because there isn't one!The closest model's manual available is for the Compaq Evo N180 which is what I hope to use when I attack my long-loved laptop-shaped door-stop later this week in the vague hope of resurrecting it.

REVIEW UPDATE - 06/25/2004 CLASS ACTION SUIT TIME - ANYONE??
I wrote a review on here about 9 month ago - and have received over 50+ mails with the same complaint - melted standoffs.. and HP/CPQ is STILL denying any knowledge of this problem!!! (This was independantly verified from an email from HP C/S received 3 days ago from another guy having a meltdown with his 2710 and HP service (or lack of))... - Even though "the fix" and remedy is posted all over CPQ's own tech web site as well as HP's!! -- You doubt me? Call them up, and they'll give you the replacement part # for the needed standoff screws for this "unknown problem".... Sigh...

Anyway, it has been suggested to me, since I seem to be the unofficial point guard for this one - that we file a class-action lawsuit of sorts - I'm not big on this - and really don't have the time - But I am so pissed off at CPQ/HP and their plain ignorance and constant denial of "any problems" that I do think it's time we do something about this collectively.

So, if anyone else is interested in filing, write me at:

CLASSACTION@KAL-TEX.COM

Tell me your woes, what part of the country you're in (or abroad... as one chap from the UK has emailed me) - and we'll see what kind of headcount we'll get, and if it's worth going after?

I know personally that I am out the cost of the 2701 unit ($1900) + the bogus repair ($400) and the cost to replace - $1750 -- So, if we get enough folks together - I think that'll catch their attention.

GOOD LUCK!

Brent

A Suprising Exception to Compaq's Image
I bought this laptop in Feb. 2002 on a whim while browsing Best Buy's return aisle. It didn't have the Floppy or any of the CDs but it was about $300 cheaper than a new one. At the time I wasn't aware of Compaq's reputation for having probably the worse customer service in the known universe, but I was quickly introduced after finding myself in their 800 number black hole (a voice-prompt carousel designed to frustrate customers into hanging up); and all I wanted were the restore CDs!
Luckily I found out they can be downloaded from the HP Website.

However the laptop itself is suprisingly good. Key features are the seperate DVD & CDRW drives and the JBL speakers. I was playing a music CD & my friends had to go outside to hear themselves talk. There is minimal distortion at high volume - something that quality desktop speakers have trouble doing.

Now for the bad: Must boot up to have a music CD play but hey it's an 8lb laptop not a CD Player. Intermittingly the keyboard interface becomes hashed on some bootups - letters are numbers etc. unless I reboot & the mouse button became worn after a few months of left-clicking that I now use a USB Mouse & Keyboard. Other problems that were XP Home/Install related (driver searches on boot-up,etc) until I did a fresh install of Pro. Also for a time I had SuSe Linux 8.0 dual booting no problems except it ran very hot, uninstalled it because with a 20GB hard drive things got cramped real fast.

I started out with 8mb video and 256mb RAM and upgraded to 32mb video & 512mb RAM, bought the port replicator and a PCMCIA-USB 2.0 Card and have been using my 2700US as a desktop relacement for a little over a year now flawlessly, except for a problem using an external monitor until I upgraded the video driver for dual monitor support. I use several desktops but I keep going back to my 2700 because it's capabilities are evenly balanced -DVD viewing, web surfing, CD-Burning, & music with non-tinny quality speakers, but Compaq's Customer Service is by far the worse HP can't save them so I can only give 4 stars but this is truly a 5 star laptop for those who have taken the chance - like me - to own one. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QERW
Subjects:  1. Notebooks (Note Books)    2. Notebook Computers    3. Laptops (Lap Tops)    4. Compaq   

Compaq Presario 700US Notebook (900-MHz Duron, 256 MB RAM, 20 GB hard drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Presario 700US is a reasonably priced notebook designed to appeal tobusiness users. Featuring an AMD Duron chip clocked at 900 MHz, 256 MB of memory(expandable to 384 MB), a 20 GB hard disk, and an 8x DVD-ROM drive, this systemwill fulfill most portable PC needs. Also included are a 56K modem, a 10/100Mbps Ethernet NIC, and a 14.1-inch, active-matrix screen with 1024 x 768resolution. The installed operating system is Windows XP, Microsoft's newoperating system that combines the stability of Windows 2000 with better supportfor peripherals and games. This system is also easily portable, weighing in atjust 6.39 pounds with a height of 1.64 inches. ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Same problems everyone else had
I had the same problems as everyone else. It runs so hot that it is uncomfortable to hold on your lap. The battery life is less than a year (two batteries died total). The hinge cracks appeared after about a year, and completely broke through after a few more months so the display is dangling...I also got a quote of $800 to repair although the LCD itself is fine.

A couple things of things that weren't mentioned in the other reviews....the PCMCIA slot had no guide initially so the pins bent after I inserted the wireless card a few times, and the power adapter quit working after 1.5 years. Tech support was worthless.

Overall, this product is a joke. Avoid it at all costs.

waste of money
We also developed the small cracks at the hinge site. The whole thing is broken out now after only 1 1/2 years. ONLY solution would be to buy a whole new LCD screen for $800!!! Yeah right, buy the same cheap plastic POS. They do not stand behind their product and do not care we spent our hard earned money on what looks to be a disposable product. If cracks appear in the plastic around the hinges, take immediate action.

Cracked hinge
I have had the same problem as described above, cracks develop above the hinges and eventually the screen falls off.It does not happen until the warranty is expired. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QERS
Subjects:  1. AMD    2. Duron    3. Notebooks (Note Books)    4. Notebook Computers    5. Laptops (Lap Tops)    6. Compaq   

If you're looking for a business-oriented notebook or desktop-replacement system, the ThinkPad A22M is a product that should not be overlooked. ThinkPad A-series notebooks may be a little bit bigger and beefier than their T-series cousins, but they're less pricey, too. And they have all the features you need to be productive, like a 1 GHz Pentium III chip, 128 MB of RAM (expandable to 512 MB), and a 14.1-inch active-matrix screen with 1,024 x 768 resolution. Storage comes in the form of a sizable 30 GB hard disk drive and 8x DVD-ROM drive. Ethernet networking and a 56K modem are standard, too. The notebook comes with Windows 2000, Microsoft's corporate-oriented operating system, and a license for Lotus SmartSuite. ... Read more

Asin: B00005NBGV
Subjects:  1. IBM    2. Notebooks (Note Books)    3. Notebook Computers    4. Laptops (Lap Tops)   

Compaq Presario 5330US Desktop (1.7-GHz Pentium 4, 512 MB RAM, 80 GB hard drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Compaq Presario 5330US is an impressive desktop system well suited to performing virtually any computing task. Consider, for example, its 12x (write) CD-RW and 12x DVD-ROM drives, 1.7 GHz Pentium 4 processor, 512 MB of RAM (expandable to 1,536 MB), and nVidia GeForce2 MX graphics card. In addition to these features, it boasts an 80 GB hard disk, 56K modem, and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet NIC. Compaq has even installed Windows XP, Microsoft's newest operating system, designed to better support peripherals and games while providing a new user interface. All this for a price that compares well with similarly rated and equipped products makes the Presario 5330US a solid solution to all your desktop computer needs. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Good Computer bad buy
I bought this computer in January of 2002. I have had so many problems with it. Every time I would call up compaq I would wait 2-6 hours just to talk to a support specialist then they would transfer me and again i would wait an additional 1-6 hours. I don't have the patience to wait and if you don't have 10 hours a month to wait on hold with compaq don't buy a compaq.

Not too shabby, but.....
it still suffers from some typical Compaq flaws. This is a handy all around household unit with some gaming features that make it more playable than the 5400. Certainly, the price isn't bad either. However, it does not include a monitor, which you'll need to buy separately. The machine's limitations for gamers lie in its limited, mothboard-bound graphics capabilities (a result of the low power NVidia card) and its mediocre ESS sound. There is an aqequate sized hard drive and a pretty good 12X CD burner, so MP3 collectors will not suffer too much. Anyway, like I said, it's a good, basic machine and if that's your interest, you'll be happy with the unit. I should point out that expanding these Compaqs (a lot like their HP bretheren) is a daunting task; things are tight in the case and adding cards and drives is a challenge, so you better like the machine the way you get it, and not the way you envision it upgraded. Lastly, Compaq's reliability has been acceptable, though its service has been less so.

Compaq the Weapon of Choice
I own a lesser of the line of Compaq (I have a 950 mhz). I have tried Windows XP though. I find that Compaq is a very high quality product. It is up with Dell, above Hewlett Packard. I highly suggest that you do no purchase a Hewlett Packard because of many reasons (see my review on it). I like the audio, keyboard, and all the small things about a Compaq. CD-RW write drives are a must for the future. Windows XP is wonderful for multiple users. It has a sign in screen. You can personalize your sign in with things such as your own wallpaper, sounds, pointing arrow, etc. I also prefer Windows above Apple. Apple is only good if you are looking for the most simplicity. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QDWD
Subjects:  1. Presario    2. Desktops (Desk Tops)    3. Desktop Computers    4. Compaq   

Compaq FP745A 15" LCD Monitor
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $599.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Compaq has designed the FP745A as an ultraslim, lightweight multimedia monitor that delivers reliability and great sound. With monitor-powered JBL Platinum Series speakers, the FP745A offers an enjoyable stereo experience and the convenience of a digital audio player, all within a thin-panel system boasting a small footprint. Consuming less desk space without compromising service, Compaq includes an integrated microphone incorporating built-in, high-quality voice recognition, digital audio inputs, and a headphone jack.

Easy-to-use onscreen menus provide precise control of brightness, contrast, degauss, horizontal and vertical size and position, color temperature, and more. Plus, plug-and-play operation and color-coded cables make setup easy, and the traditional analog interface is compatible with the most video cards. The FP745A enhances its display with a maximum flicker free resolution of 1,024 x 768. The square monitor provides a full 15 inches of viewable image area.

Antireflective, antiglare glass ensures accuracy of images and reduces eyestrain. This stylish monitor weighs less than 10 pounds. It is covered by HP/Compaq's limited one-year warranty on parts and labor.

What's in the Box
Monitor, stand, AC power supply and cord, 15-pin analog cable, instructions, warranty information ... Read more

Features

• Color-coded cables for quick and easy setup
• 1,024 x 768 maximum resolution
• Integrated speakers for multimedia use
• Analog TFT active-matrix display
• Sleek industrial design

Reviews (1)

Beautiful image and atiny footprint
Rather than replace a beloved desk which can't accommodate today's humongous monitors, I opted for a flat panel, and chose the FP745A after seeing several 15" and 17" models side-by-side at the store.Despite the steep price, I don't regret my choice.

The sharpness and color saturation are excellent (and can be fine-tuned by the user right down to specifying your own RGB values).The screen is so nonreflective that I can use it comfortably beside a sunny window (which was a major problem with my old monitor).Because the *viewable* area is 15", it doesn't seem that much smaller than the 17" (i.e., 16" viewable)Trinitron CRTI use at work, and I've found it more than satisfactory for everything from spreadsheets to simulation games.Plus, it weighs almost nothing, so I can easily shift it around as need be to make more room on my desk.

My one complaint is that the two of the cables that come with it might be adequate if the monitor were sitting atop a console CPU, but they're far too short to reach a minitower that sits at floor level.(However, a couple of inexpensive cable extensions solved that problem.)

One tip for the user:I connected mine to a new Compaq 7110US, which automatically set up the monitor using a preinstalled driver.Later, when I'd go to Control Panel>Display Properies>Settings, the monitor would flip out and I'd have to cold boot to get any image back.The problem was solved by (re)installing the driver from the diskette that came with the monitor.My OS (WinMe) balked, insisting I already had the optimum driver, but IT WAS LYING.Afterward, I was finally able change the palette from 16-bit to 32-bit (true) color, which made a world of difference. ... Read more

Asin: B000055Y0K
Subjects:  1. Flatpanel Monitor (Flat Panel Monitors)    2. Compaq   

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2002 Professional
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (23 October, 2001)
list price: $49.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2002, Professional Edition is the latest version of Microsoft's highly realistic aviation simulation--the top-selling PC flight simulation ever produced. FS 2002 Pro introduces many exciting features, including interactive air traffic control (ATC) and auto-generated scenery, plus challenging new aircraft and stunning visual enhancements that truly make Flight Simulator 2002, Professional Edition "as real as it gets."

Flight Simulator 2002, Professional Edition includes a wide variety of aircraft for you to fly--from a new Cessna 172S single-engine trainer and a Caravan floatplane to the Boeing 747-400 jumbo jet. You can splash down in a lake, hover in the Bell 206B JetRanger III helicopter, or practice aerobatics in the Extra 300S. FS 2002 Pro includes 16 aircraft, four more than in the standard edition.

Features exclusive to the professional edition include tools for creating your own planes and buildings, and a multiplayer "instructor's seat" capability. The most dramatic new features common to both editions are the interactive air traffic control system, crowded skies, and auto-generated scenery.

The interactive air traffic control feature adds a new dimension to Flight Simulator. Now you can ask for takeoff clearance, get vectors for an instrument approach, and hear other traffic as you fly. In fact, the "other traffic" is itself a new feature: a new artificial intelligence system generates air traffic around and between airports.

It'll be hard to pay attention to the air traffic, however, as the scenery in FS 2002 Pro is so attractive. As you fly above cities, towns, farmland, and dramatic landscapes, Flight Simulator adds buildings and vegetation appropriate to the terrain below. Office buildings, factories, homes, farmhouses, and trees smoothly blend in on the horizon and fill the entire area with detail that adds unprecedented depth and reality to the game.

Other features include more than 21,000 airports, multiplayer capability, improved weather effects, a moving map and GPS system, in-depth flight analysis, and more. ... Read more

Reviews (145)

cool as
this is got to be the coolist came around its like the real hting and my favourite plane is the boeing 747 they are so cool if you dont have this game and you like planes you got to get it i rate this game 100000000000000000000000000 millone stars yheah cooooool aaaaaaaaaaaaasssssssssss

from Joshua Huntley

-Junior Pilot
- To Fly is all i have wanted since i was little andgame was right for me. Last christmas i got this simulaor and a sidewinder joystick. This game is so real i find myself yelling in my room because im doing barrel rolls in the extra. i play this simulator every day when i get home from school till i go to bed.You never will get tired of this simulator

There are so many things to do on this simulator including:

-Select a flight-where you choose a flight already made.
-Create a flight-you can choose your own plane, choose anywhere in the world you would like to fly and all the conditions of the flight
-Learn to fly-take lessons from instructor,Rod Dimacho, and earn your private, instrument, commercial, and airline transport Licenses.
-Multiplayer- Fly with other aviators online
-Library- You do not go to the local bookstore anymore! Get your charts, Ground school handbooks, and many others.

The only bad thing about this simulator is that the graphics arent the best.You may be thinking that if you fly off in your town that you can see your house but thats not true. Also you cant get the exitement of crashing out of this simulator, all it does is stick the plane in the ground and if you do not want to crash just turn that setting off and you will just bounce off things.

If you dont have enough money tot ake lesson or you just want to practice this simulator is for you.My uncle is a pilot and he is amazed on how i can fly just by playing this simulator.

Hope you liked my review!

However, this is NOT a game:
http://www.x-plane.com/

So, either play, or go buy a REAL simulator, licenced by FAA to be used in a simulator setting. Loggable! ... Read more

Asin: B00005N9AD
Subjects:  1. Computer Games    2. Flight Simulators (Simulations)    3. Flightsimulator flightsim    4. Flying    5. Air    6. Strategy (Strategic)    7. Simulations    8. World Building (Builders)   

SimCity 3000 Unlimited
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (16 May, 2000)
list price: $9.99 -- our price: $9.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

SimCity 3000 is back, and it's bigger than ever! Maxis pulled out all the stops for this new version of the bestselling game, adding enough new customized graphics to re-create cities from around the world. The new European and Asian building sets serve up hundreds of new buildings that match the architecture of these diverse environments. From the Great Wall to the Berlin Wall, it's in there. Of course, you can still mix and match--freedom to run a city as you choose has always been the name of this game.

No addition to the SimCity family would be complete without some new methods for destroying your creations, and SimCity 3000 Unlimited has four more devastating disasters than the old version. You can re-create the movie Armageddon by unleashing large chunks of flaming space debris, smite your populace with a buzzing swarm of locusts, destroy seaports and coastal developments with a whirlpool, or uncork some toxic clouds.

The Building Architect, formerly available as a free download, is now packed on the CD-ROM. This 3-D architectural program lets users create the buildings of their dreams, from dilapidated outhouses to towering skyscrapers to works of modern art that are intended for pure decoration. Don't worry if you don't feel like using this powerful tool to create things yourself--the game comes with dozens of new ways to make your cities unique, and you can always head to the SimCity Exchange to download imaginative add-ons created by other users. The infinite expandability and infinite replayability of this game should keep would-be mayors completely occupied until they move to the suburbs of The Sims. ... Read more

Features

• All-new Asian and European building sets with hundreds of new buildings to choose from
• 13 challenging scenarios or create your own custom, goal-based adventure
• 4 new disasters to inflict: plague of locusts, toxic cloud, space junk, and a whirlpool
• 23 new landmarks: Helsinki Cathedral, Japan's Himeji Castle, and more
• Customizable terrain with scores of new options, such as snow, rolling hills, and a desert

Reviews (123)

Great game in its day; rather old now.
This was a great game back in its day. However, it is old and dated now. It was a vast improvement over SimCity 2000 and the original SimCity, offering larger cities and maps and improved graphics and other details.

For all the reviewers who are being so negative, look at the system requirements. This game was designed for Windows 95 and 98, not 2000 or XP. Most games like that will not run properly under 2000 or XP (if at all). For those of you with 2000 or XP, I recommend SimCity 4 (Rush Hour or Deluxe Edition) instead.

Technology marches on, and it is critical to verify that your system meets the requirements of the software programs (and understanding that old programs may no longer work on newer PCs and operating systems).

4 stars for win 98, 0 for others
Like other reviewers, I've had problems with this game on both Win 2k and Windows XP. On 2k, the game installs and loads, but stalls on the first screen. On XP, the game installs but does not load.
I originally bought this in China (legally) and thought that this may be the reason. I used to play it on a Windows 98 machine until that machine crashed, and I had to upgrade to 2k, and have not played it since.
I also contacted EA Tech Support who insisted that this game is/was designed for Windows 98. They suggested I run the compatibility wizard but this was a failure.
Why they're still selling this game escapes me. Maybe they've corrected things on later versions though.
If you can get it to run, this really is a fun game. There are plenty of improvements from Sim City 2000 that I enjoyed, especially the more logical traffic and crime patterns, and the huge increase in map size.
All in all though, don't buy this.

simy 3000
this game is a city.you build roads etc.How is it that no one likes this game anymore?duh!the next one.It is sad that this game is not enough for people anymore.it should be. ... Read more

Asin: B00004T1M7
Subjects:  1. Sim City town simtown    2. Maxis    3. simcity3000    4. Computer Games    5. Action    6. Strategy (Strategic)    7. Simulations    8. World Building (Builders)   

Logitech Deluxe Access 104 Keyboard
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $19.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Logitech's Deluxe Access 104 Keyboard is convenient and provides one-touch Internet access. Three hot keys allow you to get online, to start a search, to check e-mail, or to launch your favorite applications at the touch of a button. The space-saving design offers a familiar, comfortable key layout. The keys are full-sized and responsive. The Logitech Deluxe Access 104 includes a detachable palm rest for added comfort. ... Read more

Features

• 1-touch Web access, search, and e-mail
• Familiar, comfortable typing layout
• Detachable palm rest
• Space-saving design
• 3-year warranty

Reviews (9)

Best current generation keyboard on the market.
This Logitech keyboard is truly the best feeling keyboard I've come across for a while.I love everything about, especially these days when manufacturers keep adding more and more buttons that just clutter the designs and get in the way of it's main function: typing!

I am a serious computer user, and I was sad to find out that logitech discontinuedthe design for a new more ergonomic model.The problem I have with the newer model is that the spacebar is way too narrow.I'm sure they did this to lesson the throw for the keys, but I don't think that I'll ever get used to it.However this model is perfect and I highly recommend that you purchase a new one on ebay.It should run you about $15 shipped on ebay, and it's worth more than double that in my opinion.Email me with any questions.

Rob

Disappointed with the keyboard.
I purchased the logitech keyboard expecting a high quality product, but I am disappointed. As an experienced typist, Itype with my eyes on the screen or the document, not on the keyboard. I noticed 2 major problems with the keyboard.

1. The navigation keys on the right (Insert, Delete, PgUp, Pgdn) are smaller than standard size, apparently to make space for the 3 internet access keys. Big mistake!! Every time I try to delete something or go up on the page, I miss the key, because it is so small, I end up hitting the other two keys, including PgDn. The F1-F12 keys are also smaller (smaller than the fingertips) again making it harder to find them by "feel", a key aspect to TOUCH-typing.

2. Another major problem: The keys are "squishy" and "flimsy".Hard to feel if the key has been "pressed" as there is no good, crisp feel when the switch has been made.With the extra "give" past the switch point, my hands got tired easy after just a paragraph or 2 and battling all the errors that occur in every other word.I am impressed with all the "bells and whistles" manufacturers add to their products, but not if they do this at the expense of some basic necessary features
that interfere with the basic utility and function of the product.

Excellent keyboard
This keyboard is great.It came with a computer I bought and I haven't had a single problem with it at all.I do multiple things on my computer, such as typing papers, designing websites, and gaming where you need to react quickly, and this keyboard fits every need perfectly.It is very comfortable and includes a wrist rest, although I don't use it.The keyboard itself also includes three customizable button that you can set to open your home page, e-mail program/website, and search engine.You can set these to just about any program or website you want, however, so you could have the search engine button open your AOL Instant Messager if you would prefer, for example.Although it doesn't come with all the bells and whistles of more expensive products, I recommend this keyboard due to its excellent performance, comfort, and low price. ... Read more

Asin: B00004VUGR
Subjects:  1. Keyboard (Keyboards)   

Canon BJC-55 Color Bubble Jet Printer
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $349.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Lightweight design and wireless connectivity allow you to take the Canon BJC-55 Color Bubble Jet printer anywhere you go. Weighing in at just over 2 pounds, the compact BJC-55 is fully portable. Use the built-in Fast IrDA for convenient wireless printing or the USB port for quick and easy connection to both Mac and PC systems. The BJC-55 runs on the long-life lithium-ion battery and allows you to print up to 100 pages before recharging.

The BJC-55 provides desktop-quality printing at 5.5 pages per minute (2 ppm color). It handles several types of paper, including legal, A4, European, and also envelopes. At 720 x 360 dpi, it produces sharp lines and crisp color. Optional photo ink can be added for printing high-quality photos. Other options include a 100-sheet automatic feeder and the IS-12 Color Image Scanner cartridge so you can use your printer as a color sheetfed scanner.

The Canon BJC-55 includes a CD-ROM, printer drivers, and user's guide. --Emily Bakko ... Read more

Features

• Convenient wireless printing from compatible computers or hand-held organizers
• 720 by 360 dpi print resolution
• Desk-top quality printing in a compact model
• Built-in USB and Fast IrDA
• Prints black text at 5.5 pages per minute, color text at 2 pages per minute

Reviews (8)

Excellent!
I needed a printer to go with my Notebook and this one filled the bill.It isn't cheap but you seem to get what you pay for.When at home, adding the Auto Sheet Feeder makes it as convenient as a stationary printer but with a smaller footprint.Highly recommend this one for the Notebook users.

GREAT PRINTER
I JUST BOUGHT THIS PRINTER FOR MY LAPTOP.
IT WAS VERY EASY TO INSTALL AND EASY TO WORK WITH. THE PRINTING IS GREAT, AND QUICK FOR A BUBBLE JET. THE COLOR IS VERY GOOD.

Simply the best printer for your notebook
You can't buy a better printer for your notebook! ... Read more

Asin: B00004ZAV2
Subjects:  1. Inkjet Printers (Ink Jet Printer) - Color    2. Parallel, Infrared IrDa interface, connection, port    3. Parallel, IrDA Interface, Connection, Port, Printing    4. Scanning Option, Scanner Attachment, Scan    5. BJC50    6. Inkjet Printer (Ink Jet Printers, Printing)    7. Portable Printer (Personal Printers, Printing)    8. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple   

Yamaha YSTMS50B 80-Watt 3-Piece Subwoofer/Satellite Computer Speakers (Black)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Yamaha's YSTMS50B three-speaker system is capable of 80 watts total power for deep lows and piercing highs. The 20-watt satellite speakers are magnetically shielded, so you can place them near your monitor without experiencing video distortion. The 40-watt subwoofer gets its sound from a 6.5-inch multirange spruce cone driver, so you get the best bass performance possible.

Frequency response for this system is 32 Hz to 20 kHz. ... Read more

Features

• Elegant slant-baffle design
• Yamaha's exclusive Advanced YST for deep, powerful bass
• 2-way satellite speakers for brilliant highs
• Magnetic shielding to eliminate monitor distortion
• Convenient headphone output jack on the satellite speaker

Reviews (5)

Top of the Line Speakers for CHEAP!!!
i was plesantly suprised with these speakers.they are really worth it because they have top of the line sound that you would expect for $200 speakers, but theyre durt cheap!!if you are thinking about buying new computer speakers, buy these!

Good Value, Really Nice Looking
I purchased these speakers to replace my Altec-Lansing ADA-880 speakers that were fried by a lightning strike/power surge. I chose these speakers because they do not look stupid, like so many of the new speakers being sold. These are very nice looking speakers. They are not some goofy space-man looking piece of crap. They will work great with your computer, or any other audio device with an 1/8th inch stereo plug. They produce respectable sound, and a fair amount of bass. If you like TONS of bass, that you can feel thumping in your chest, (like the exceptional ADA-880 speakers that are no longer available,) you will be a little disappointed. I would have rated them a 5 if they produced more bass.

Great system for the price!
At this writing, it'll be darn hard to find a better 3-piece system than this!

So that you know where I'm coming from, I label myself a "low-budget semi-audiophile," meaning I squeeze as much value as I can while building my stereo component by component. Translated, I hate all-in-one mini stereos and especially loathe tinny speakers. I demand clarity, warmth, and good, tight bass response. I'm also an amateur musician for the last 15 years, and I was looking for a system that would do reasonably well while I build a somewhat low-to-mid budget computer recording setup.

These Yamahas deliver almost exactly that for this price point, with some qualifications as noted below. They have done exceedingly well in reviews here and elsewhere on the net, even after you weed out the chaff, which was a major reason for me to at least try these speakers.

These speakers will not replace your component stereo (certainly not my Klipsch bookshelf speakers and Polk sub), but at less than 100 USD, that's to be expected. The sub is plenty tight and as loud as you need it for various music--some earlier reviewers, it appears, need to learn that subs are more to be felt than heard. Given the price, I find the crossover to be just fine. Mids are also quite strong. The speakers are generally *very* warm (and I typically dislike most component loudspeakers as too cold and sterile!) with something of a "surround"-type presence.

The qualifications force me to disagree with some reviewers, if somewhat subjectively. The treble is reasonably good, but not great, certainly not brilliant or sparkling as previous reviews and advertising may suggest. There is no treble knob, as there darn well should be (my old Altecs had a treble knob...). As a treble fix, I've downloaded the newest versions of Winamp (2.78) and Sonique (1.95) to use and compare their EQs (less than 10 minutes download on either on a 56K modem). That solves some of my yearning for treble, but to a point, as each EQ appears to affect MP3s far better than direct CD-player audio, where Sonique appears to have a slight, marginal edge (and a 20-band EQ instead of 10 on Winamp).I should underline that I am a perpetual EQ tweaker, and really, the treble with the added EQ is quite good.Still, I've kept my old Altecs chained up to the second (additional) input on the Yamaha's right speaker to add a bit more treble for direct CD-audio.

One other minor qualification is that the power cord is built directly into the back of the sub. This may be typical of the competition, but it's annoying to pack back into the box if you have to move it, and will be subject to stress with much greater difficulties in replacing it, compared to a cord with an adapter that you could remove. The plus is that the plug on the other end is a normal-sized three-prong, not a wall-wart (i.e., big fat AC adapter).

Overall, the sound is excellent at this price point, and I'm very happy with my decision to buy this three piece system. Sure, you can spend $$$ and get something better, but I very much doubt you'll beat the bang for the buck this Yamaha 3-piece provides. ... Read more

Asin: B00004Z81Q
Subjects:  1. Computer 3 (2.1) speaker system