The Bottom Line
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Serial IR enabled.
- Includes HP ProtectTools software.
- Can use both SD and CF cards.
- Integrated voice recorder
- Reasonable price.
- Some issues with battery not holding a charge.
- Display could be larger.
Description
- OS - Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 for Pocket PC.
- Included Software - Word® Mobile, Excel® Mobile, PowerPoint® Mobile and Internet Explorer Mobile.
- Dimensions - 3.01" W x 0.65" D x 4.71" W. Weight - 5.8 oz
- Processor - Intel® PXA270 Processor 520 MHz Memory - 256 MB total (192 MB ROM and 64 MB SDRAM),
- Memory con't - Up to 128 MB user available persistent storage memory, certified up to 1 GB.
- Memory Slots - SD Slot: supports 1-bit SDIO and 4-bit SD/MMC type memory standard.
- Display - 3.5" transflective TFT QVGA, 64K colors, LED backlight w power save mode,
- Display con't - Portrait and landscape modes.
- 1-22 pin connector for syncing & charging, integrated infrared (SIR), USB 1.1 Client, Serial RS232
- Included - USB sync cable, stylus, AC adapter, charging adapter, protective plastic flip cover.
Guide Review - HP IPAQ HX 2495 (HX 2490 Canada)
The real strength of this PDA is the price and the integrated connection options. It has a strong processor (I’ve had laptops with weaker processors) and the expandability of functions with the SD and CF slots.
Another factor that is for mobile professionals is the included Microsoft Mobile software, it’s been nice to know I can work on a Word document and not fire up the laptop to make just a few changes.
I’ve found the display to be quite adequate – larger displays are always something we wish for. Whether viewing photos or videos, the display has been crisp and the color quality is very good.
I have come across users that have run into problems with the ActiveSync program and do advise that you switch it to run on Manual mode rather than Automatic. It can create a drain on the battery and catch you by surprise that the battery is low when you least expect it.
The battery life is another strong feature for this PDA. Like any portable device, using Wi-Fi puts a drain on the battery, but even using Wi-Fi for extended periods of time, I’ve been able to go a full day and not worry about losing battery power.
This is a reasonably priced PDA solution for mobile professionals who want more convenience and still stay connected on the road.
