The Bottom Line
Pros
- Syncs between Mac to a Pocket PC
- Easy to use.
- Supports a wide variety of Pocket PC models & Smartphones
- Very reasonably priced.
- Uses a USB connection.
Cons
- Bluetooth and TCP/IP Network connections not available.
- Email syncronization not enabled in this version.
Description
- Requires: Mac OS 10.4 or higher, 14MB free space on Mac, 1 USB port, Windows Mobile 5/6 Device, Windows Mobile 5 or 6 -6.1.
- Entourage 10.1.16 or higher for the Entourage sync options.
- Entourage (Calendar, Contacts and Tasks), Address Book, iTunes & iPhoto synchronization.
- iCal can be synced between devices.
- Can install 3rd party programs from Mac to Pocket PC.
- View all files including memory cards on the Pocket PC on your Mac.
- Can view Pocket PC Word, Excel & Notes on your Mac. Can save Word and Notes in .rtf & copy Excel into Excel or Apple Works.
- Program available as a download only or on disk.
- User Manual available online.
Guide Review - PocketMac for Windows Mobile 5 & 6
The version of PocketMac for Windows Mobile 5/6 that I reviewed was a download version. It isn’t a large file and installed easily. I did take time to read the User Manual, which is available online at PocketMac Windows Mobile 5/6.
As always, read the User Manual before trying to install the program. It is pretty thorough although there are some sections, which haven’t been completed yet. They apply to additional features that many users may not use. If you do get stumped once the installation begins or have issues after installing the program there is an in-depth Knowledge Base online.
When you install the program and go through the initial set-up steps you can specify which elements within the various programs you want to synchronize each time. The User Manual does include tips to make setting up easier and to help make synchronizations go smoother.
One downside to this program that I hope is changed in future versions is that you can only sync between your devices with a USB connection. I hope that the ability to connect via Bluetooth isn’t too far in the future. Using the USB connection with my Pocket PC cradle isn’t too much of a hassle I use that time to charge my Pocket PC while syncing files.
The other downside is that you can't sync email yet and while not a huge problem it can be a hassle if you aren't using a web-based email program. I don't use my Pocket PC for email it is useful to compose emails in either Notes or Word and then sync those files over to my MacBook when I need to send the emails.
The ability to view and safe Word, Excel and Notes is a definite bonus and I've found that very useful.
The program is compatible with a wide variety of Pocket PC and Smartphone models. I was pleased to see the variety and extent of the listing.