{\pwi TahomaTimes New RomanArialCourier NewSymbolWingdingsVerdanaArial Unicode MS!=  W W  @Xe6$0'%#*&,E.@0C2468:V<B>U@8B$DLF H9JILQN2P1R8T*VBX3Zk\)^'`+bAdf7h'jl.n0phr/t/v)x-z6|8~V*O[)4j@'7fL   Ba]rTZB:G*kD U:@G5I\:F/3*5Au<KI/FOKC0&@=$ 4   1" "$$&(i*v,B.-0L2$4-6K85:<,>S@1B?D F>H*J?L;NHP7RJT+V"XmZP\q^$`$bOd?fuhj;l-nipVrft v?x5z|/~#&ErCjCq)ctVVmBU%1Q8\$L>  9^IQ2BX 1 ?8\%2 "7$&(6*,9.0246,8:&<>@-BDFHJ*L NPBRTV3X4Z\l^O`b)d?f@hjl'n*pr"tvxz:|~A: 7T\!?'=.I0P7_fh//-5E79&)&-6_8c  Vo*|O "$&(*,[.502)4/684:r<>j@BD`F[HJ@L(NPRQTV'X<Z\7^?`bfdUfhLjlnCp rt\vzx z0|~qBa ar}W ZRuB:]>UC??HMFDLG2 *#k DQ  U &5': R"$&(I*,.0$24P68,:<>@@B'DFGHJL5N3PRTQVXZI\]^`\bdfhjl npr:tv+xHz|1~z95,8QCw<mK+77+>'7)77B<H-+IvlHGFQ/FHob1NPHU T O7KC "$0&(*,.0&2p46@8u:<=>@BDF HJLNPR$TVX4ZC\ ^`bJdfKhjlnTp3rtvx!z|~Ns%Rb&iv{B[-CLJ$z-\K5w,S1S,M?  >c*I? } "$&;(*,H.023468J:<>+@BD"FHJmL?NPQRT\VXZq\^`%bdf$hjMlAnprOtPvx?z|%~u^;{-iVL[,(m&Rf  HG'*G.i / \_L52AI  $; "M$'&a(y*,.\0k2|4p68j:"<>O@{BDFdHaJKLNNtPBRTWVJXZx\e^u`b8dfhj[ln pr#A$'6(d rs  iPAQ POCKET PC 3600 SERIES FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSB(A'0a& rs  iPAQ FAQ version 0.6(10/8/01) by Michael GribinB&A%() I.  rs  INTRODUCTION & THE BASICSB)A*%#{+ 1. trs hWhy make a device specific FAQ?B+A,&L- 2. Why not just call it the iPAQ FAQ?B-A.!Ek/ 3. What operating system does the iPAQ use: Windows CE or Pocket PC?B/A0 @f1 4. What is the difference between the iPAQ 3630, the iPAQ 3650?B1A2!Ci3 5. What is the difference between the iPAQ 3600 and the iPAQ 3100?B3A4@5 6. What is the iPAQ 3635?B5A6@7 7. What is the iPAQ 3670?B7A8@9 8. What is the iPAQ 3660?B9A:@; 9. What is the iPAQ 3800?B;A<&V|= 10. How do you decipher the serial number on the iPAQ to reveal its manufacture date?B=A>!Bh? 11. What is the difference between a Hard Reset and a Soft Reset?B?A@%U{A 12. Why should I buy the Compaq CarePaq when the iPAQ already comes with a warranty?BAAB8^C 13. How does storage memory differ from program memory?BCAD$JE 14. Is the iPAQ sidelit or backlit?BEAF#LrG 15. Is there a noticeable difference between 12 bit color and 16 bit color?BGAH" nI II. rs  HARDWAREBIAJ+9K 1. trs hHow long can the iPAQ run on a fully charged battery?BKAL"IoM 2. Is the iPAQ's battery Lithium Ion Polymer, Li-Ion or Lithium Polymer?BMAN$QwO 3. Will I have to send the iPAQ back to Compaq in a year to replace the battery?BOAP2XQ 4. Will excessive charging decrease battery life?BQAR1WS 5. Does the iPAQ have 16MB or 32MB of Flash ROM?BSAT8^U 6. Which third party companies can upgrade my iPAQ RAM?BUAV*PW 7. Why does the type of processor matter?BWAX!BhY 8. Is it safe to charge my iPAQ's battery in a different country?BYAZ3Y[ 9. Why are there holes in the front of the cradle?B[A\+k] 10. How can I release the rails on the inner sides of the cradle that get depressed by the Expansion Pack?B]A^)O_ 11. Do I need to use a screen protector?B_A`'Ma 12. How can I safely clean the screen?BaAb+Qc 13. Does the iPAQ have a vibrate function?BcAd Age 14. Where can I find detailed technical information on the iPAQ?BeAf"og III. rs  SOFTWAREBgAh*7i 1. trs hHow do I download and install software on the iPAQ?BiAj'Mk 2. Can I run Palm software on my iPAQ?BkAl=m 3. What are emulators?BmAn.To 4. What emulators are available for the iPAQ?BoAp0Vq 5. Where can I find free software for the iPAQ?BqAr*hs 6. Are there any applications for the iPAQ to change the screen image while it is docked in the cradle?BsAt/Uu 7. What is Transcriber and where can I get it?BuAv/Uw 8. How can I print with the iPAQ via infrared?BwAx)Oy 9. Is there spellchecker in Pocket Word?ByAz-S{ 10. Is there a pocket version of PowerPoint?B{A|6\} 11. Can I view Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) files on my iPAQ?B}A~8^ 12. What is the difference between Vindigo and AvantGo?BA&V| 13. How can I increase the allowable storage space for AvantGo beyond the 2 MB limit?BA*P 14. What is Flashman and what does it do?BAD 15. What is Internal Use Spy?BA$Ou 16. How I can create shortcut icons for certain programs/games I've installed?BA6 17. Why did the map I downloaded for Pocket Streets lose its common street name (it now appears as "SR"#(State Road) or "CR"# (City Road) on the map)?BA'[ 18. Is there any way, besides ActiveSync, that I can control my docked iPAQ through my PC?BA)O 19. Do I need a screen saver on my iPAQ?BA4Z 20. Do I need virus protection software on my iPAQ?BA+j 21. Is there a version of PCAnywhere for the iPAQ that will allow remote control of desktops and servers?BA @f 22. Have Doom, Hexen, Heretic or Quake been ported to the iPAQ?BA'M 23. Can I use my iPAQ like a TV Guide?BA7] 24. How can I change the default Zoom level for Notes?BA*f 25. Why do I get an error trying to install Pocket Streets 2001 from the Streets & Trips 2001 CD ROM?BA#Lr 26. What do Dashboard, GigaBar, WIS Bar, PocketNav and Pocket Informant do?BA#r  A. rDs  Dashboard  BA L  B.   GigaBar  BA L  C.   WIS Bar  BA N  D.   PocketNav  BAU  E.   Pocket Informant  BA-B 27.  trs hWhy can't I find any files using the Find tool in the Q-Menu?BA(a 28. Is there a way to change file-type extensions (like *.txt to *.htm) on the Pocket PC itself?BA* rs BA#s IV. rs  SYNCHRONICITYBA4] 1. trs hWhat are the actual file transfer speeds of the Serial Cable/Cradle and USB Cable/Cradle?BA-r 2. Can I synchronize the same iPAQ on one PC with a Serial Cable/Cradle and a second PC using a USB Cable/Cradle?BA%Tz 3. Can I synchronize my iPAQ with Lotus software (Lotus Organizer and Lotus Notes)?BA'Z 4. Can I synchronize my iPAQ with 2 PCs; one running Outlook and the other running Lotus?BAT4 5. How can I get an event to show up as Free in Organizer's calendar (so that the day is not entirely filled with this one appointment) but Busy on my iPAQ's calendar (so that the event shows up as a banner in day view and the day has a box in it when in monthly view)?BA!Bh 6. Can I sync 2 PC (2 partnerships) Outlook Inboxes with my iPAQ?BA:` 7. Why doesn't my USB Cradle/Cable work with my computer?BA"Gm 8. Why does AvantGo access my floppy drive when I synchronize my iPAQ?BA*P 9. Why does AvantGo take so long to sync?BA+k 10. How can I store my AvantGo channel web pages on my storage card instead of the iPAQ's internal memory?BA!Dj 11. How do I import files (Word, Excel, pictures, etc.) to my iPAQ?BA# q V. rs  INTERNETBA2U 1. trs hCan I access the Internet via the Cradle/Cable using my PC's Internet connection?BA:` 2. How can I access the Internet wirelessly with my iPAQ?BA @f 3. Which Internet Service Providers ("ISP") work with the iPAQ?BA"Gm 4. Can I get and send email via a web-based email service on the iPAQ?BA5[ 5. How can I access my Hotmail account with my iPAQ?BA9 6. Does Pocket Internet Explorer ("PIE") support everything the full version of Internet Explorer supports, such as animated GIFs, JAVA, Secure Connections, etc.?BA"Io 7. Is it possible to use a free ISP with my iPAQ to access the Internet?BA(\ 8. Which sites can I use to test the speed of my wireless connection on the iPAQ using PIE?BA> 9. What is BlueKite?BA#q VI. rs  ACCESSORIESBA+: 1. trs hCompactFlash Expansion Pack and PCMCIA Expansion Pack:BA%y  A. rDs  Which is better?  BA(F  B.   Is Compaq honoring the rebate for the CompactFlash Expansion Pack?  BA#/p  C.   What is the Silver Slider and who makes it?  BA$3t  D.   Is the IBM MicroDrive compatible with the iPAQ?  BA!*k  E.   Do I need to format my IBM MicroDrive  ?BA$5v  F.   Is the Kingston Datapak compatible with the iPAQ?  BA'A  G.   Will type III PCMCIA cards work in the PCMCIA Expansion Pack?  BA4u  H.   Why can't programs on my iPAQ "see" files (music, movies, eBooks, maps, etc.) on my CompactFlash or storage card?  BA,< 2.  trs hCan I hot swap cards in the CompactFlash Expansion Pack?BA#Kq 3. Which carrying cases fit the iPAQ with and without the Expansion Packs?BA"Io 4. Can I use my iPAQ as a pocket Global Positioning System (GPS) device?BA/U 5. What is a Basic Style Pack and why use one?BA"Fl 6. Is there an external keyboard attachment that works with the iPAQ?BA$Ou 7. Is there any way to recharge or extend the iPAQ's battery without AC power?BA#Kq 8. Is there any way to plug more than one set of headphones into the iPAQ?BA!Ci 9. Is there any way to use the iPAQ as a universal remote control?BA0V 10. Is there any way I can watch TV on my iPAQ?BA6 11. Where can I get that style pack with the clear hard covered "flip" screen protector which was shown near the end of the introduction tour on cd rom?BA&L 12. Is there an iPAQ game pad add-on?BA @f 13. Can I use the iPAQ to do a presentation on a larger screen?BA=c 14. Is there a CompactFlash camera compatible with the iPAQ?BA$t VII. rs  MISCELLANEOUSBA$t  1. trs hWhere can I buy an iPAQ?B A $J  2. Why is the iPAQ so hard to find?B A 4Z  3. What are the most common problems with the iPAQ?B A" m  A. rDs  Dust  BAP  B.   Screen flip  BA N  C.   Digitizer  BAZ  D.   Speaker Stops Working  BA#1r  E.   Door slide cover for power switch won't close  BAQ  F.   Speaker pops  BA`  G.   Multiple button press issue  BAT  H.   Backlight reset  BAT  I.   Stylus and silo  BA "c!  J.   Sticking/auto repeating joypad  B!A"Q#  K.   Power button  B#A$Q%  L.   Alarm volume  B%A& $e'  M.   Scratching from basic style pack  B'A(C) 4.  trs hHow can I force the Today screen on my iPAQ to refresh - images from previous program stay in the window and the normal Today screen will not display?B)A**i+ 5. Should I buy the iPAQ now, wait until all the problems with the iPAQ are fixed or buy something else?B+A,.v- 6. Why don't all programs have a close/exit option and how can I close those programs that don't have such an option?B-A.!Bh/ 7. What is "The Bird" and how can I get my iPAQ to give it to me?B/A0-S1 8. What is the Funpack and how do I get one?B1A2#Lr3 9. How can I stop the record button from beeping so loudly when I press it?B3A4$J5 10. Can the iPAQ do Landscape mode?B5A6-S7 11. How can I delete the MS Money databases?B7A8,K9 12. trs hWhy are there certain programs/files on the iPAQ that I cannot delete?B9A:+5; 13. trs h  How do I adjust the contrast of the iPAQ screen?B;A<B= 14. trs h  How can I access the "Align Screen" configuration when my screen is so severely out of alignment that I can't use stylus taps to get there?B=A>,R? 15. How can I change my iPAQ's system name?B?A@%SyA 16. How do I change my iPAQ's system name back to the old name after a hard reset?BAAB1WC 17. Why does my iPAQ turn itself on at midnight?BCAD ?eE 18. Is there a way to access a "Run" command line on the iPAQ?BEAF FG 19. Can I play DVDs on my iPAQ?BGAH >dI 20. Is the iPAQ really in the Guinness Book of World Records?BIAJ*PK 21. Where can I get the ROM update patch?BKAL ?eM 22. Can the iPAQ be upgraded to the next version of Pocket PC?BMAN;aO 23. Do I have to upgrade to the next version of Pocket PC?BOAP"HnQ 24. Do I need 32 MB of ROM to upgrade to the next version of Pocket PC?BQAR7]S 25. When is then next version of Pocket PC coming out?BSAT#JpU 26. What are the risks associated with upgrading/flashing the iPAQ's ROM?BUAV+QW 27. How do I upgrade/flash the iPAQ's ROM?BWAX"HY 28. What if my ROM upgrade fails?BYAZ+m[ 29. How can I get the original icon back on the start menu for a program installed on the CompactFlash card?B[A\$Pv] 30. Are there any shortcut moves to speed up the use of the Keyboard interface?B]A^,q_ 31. Why won't my sidelight shine at anything above Med Bright, despite being set to High Bright or Super Bright?B_A`$Ja 32. How do I add fonts to the iPAQ?BaAb$Jc 33. How can I use Cleartype in PIE?BcAd$Oue 34. What can I do - my iPAQ is frozen with "Password Incorrect" on the screen?BeAf ?eg 35. How can I password protect only selected files on my iPAQ?BgAh-ui 36. How can I set up my iPAQ so that a certain application (like PocketNav) automatically starts after a soft reset?BiAj@k 37. What does AutoRun do?BkAl;am 38. Why did the Start menu move from flush left to center?BmAn-So 39. How can I change the Today Screen image?BoAp*iq 40. How can I display more appointments than just those planned for the current day on the Today screen?BqAr&V|s 41. How can I do a screen capture (digital snap-shot) of what is on my iPAQ's screen?BsAt*fu 42. What does the proposed merger of Hewlett-Packard Co. and Compaq Computer Corp. mean for the iPAQ?BuAv# qw VIII. rs  LINKSBwAx,?y 1. trs hWhat are the best web addresses for iPAQ related web sites?ByAz5[{ 2. What are the best iPAQ related Discussion Boards?B{A|#p} IX. rs  CONCLUSIONB}A~(/ 1. trs hThank You, Legal, Notifications and Errata.BA: 2. Version History.BA rs BA  BA(  I. rs    INTRODUCTION & THE BASICSBA"#o 1. trs hWhy make a device specific FAQ?BA rs Same reason there are iPAQ dedicated message boards. For the iPAQ Pocket PC user, FAQ (frequently asked questions) documentation that merely addresses the Pocket PC operating system is insufficient, as the device specifications greatly impact usability. The processor type, power, speed, expandability, physical specifications (both internal and external), etc. all combine with the operating system to dictate the uses, and limitations, of a handheld PC. Also, the author feels the iPAQ FAQ on Compaq's website is a good beginning, but does not cover enough. However, please check with that FAQ (located at http://www.compaq.com/products/handhelds/pocketpc/faq.html), as questions included therein will not be answered here.BA  BA"&l 2. trs hWhy not just call it the iPAQ FAQ?BA" rs I will. In fact, for the remainder of this FAQ, references to the iPAQ, mean the iPAQ Pocket PC 3600 Series. However, the reason for the distinction is that Compaq uses the name iPAQ for other iPAQ Series and several other products it manufactures. These other products include desktop computers, portable MP3 players, etc. So, when dealing with stores and resellers, make sure you are both referring to the iPAQ Pocket PC 3600 Series when you say iPAQ, instead of any of the other Compaq products sharing the name.BA  BA)E 3. trs hWhat operating system does the iPAQ use: Windows CE or Pocket PC?BAkr rs The answer to this question is more complex than it first appears. The simple answer is that the iPAQ uses the Microsoft Windows CE (nicknamed "WinCE") operating system. The version of this operating system is 3.0. The combination of the shell and the built in applications is called Pocket PC. This is kind of like the flavor of operating system that runs on the iPAQ.BA  BA)C 4. trs hWhat is the difference between the iPAQ 3630 and the iPAQ 3650?BAj rs This was perhaps the most FAQ on the discussion boards when the iPAQ first came out. Speculation has run rampant with conflicting explanations from Compaq and retailers charging different prices for the 3630 and 3650 serving to only further muddy the waters. Here are some myths: the 3630 is the consumer model of the iPAQ and the H3650 is the Corporate/Business model; the 3630 is sold outside the USA and the 3650 is sold within the USA; one comes with a serial cradle, the other with a USB cradle. One post actually goes into detail about the feel of the iPAQ (one is quite slippery, the other isn't at all), the case materials (on one the back and front panels look different, on the other, they are identical), the color of light reflected in the screen with power off (fluorescent light looks either slightly orange-ish on one or strawberry/purple on the other), etc.BA  The real answer is that the 3630 and the 3650 are EXACTLY THE SAME! Both come with the same software, the same documentation packet, the same rebates, the same cradle, the same AC adapter and the same box (one says 3630 and the other 3650). Compaq uses the different numbers to distinguish between iPAQs sold in retail stores (3630) and iPAQs sold through online stores (3650). The different prices may be from Compaq charging the re-sellers less for the retail version (3630) to encourage keeping iPAQs in stock. BA0 There is more of a difference between the different generations of iPAQs (different serial numbers) than there are differences between the 3630 and the 3650.BA  BA)C 5. trs hWhat is the difference between the iPAQ 3600 and the iPAQ 3100?BA-q rs 3600 is the name of the Series which encompasses the 3630, 3635, 3650 and 3670 models (see question I.4, above).BA)R rs  The 3100 is the monochrome (grayscale) version of the 3600 Series iPAQ. It only has 16MB RAM and, until recently, was not available in North America. It should also be noted that MediaPlayer will not play video on the monochrome iPAQ because the software does not support grayscale or 256 colors. PocketTV plays mpeg videos fine on the monochrome iPAQ. Also, the monochrome iPAQ uses a different ROM upgrade than the 3600 Series iPAQ. The monochrome iPAQ ROM upgrade can be found at http://www.compaq.com/support/files/handhelds/us/locate/48_1229.html.BA rs BA` 6. trs hWhat is the iPAQ 3635?BA'c rs The 3635 is exactly the same as the 3630, except that it comes with a CompactFlash Expansion Pack.BA  BA` 7. trs hWhat is the iPAQ 3670?BA+t rs The 3670 is identical to the 3630 and 3650, except it is a newer model that has 64MB of RAM instead of 32MB of RAM.BA  BA` 8. trs hWhat is the iPAQ 3660?BA/ rs The 3660 is the same as the 3670, except that it is only distributed in Europe and the UK. The 3670 is only distributed in the US.BA  BA` 9. trs hWhat is the iPAQ 3800?BAfV~ rs The iPAQ 3800 is the next generation of the iPAQ encompassing the iPAQ 3870 (integrated Bluetooth) and 3850 (no integrated Bluetooth). Both versions have 64K color display, Pocket PC 2002, 64 MB RAM, 32 MB ROM, an internal Secure Digital slot, etc. For more information check out http://www.compaq.com/products/handhelds/pocketpc/index.html.BA+ rs BA.V 10. trs hHow do you decipher the serial number on the iPAQ to reveal its manufacture date?BAim rs The 3rd character is a number representing the last digit in the year of manufacture (0=2000, 1=2001). The 4th character indicates the month using hexadecimal (1=January, 2=February, 3=March, 4=April, 5=May, 6=June, 7=July, 8=August, 9=September, A=October, B=November, C=December). FYI - the first character designates the factory where the iPAQ was manufactured.BA  BA)B 11. trs hWhat is the difference between a Hard Reset and a Soft Reset?BA{ rs A soft reset is done by inserting the tip of the stylus into the hole on the bottom right of the iPAQ to push the button inside. Be careful, if the button is held down for more than 3 seconds the iPAQ will hard reset (see below). A soft reset clears unused memory but keeps all software. Some minor settings will revert to factory default (sidelight, input method, etc.) but nothing should be lost (contacts, installed programs, etc.).BAN A hard reset is when the switch behind the door on the bottom left of the iPAQ is thrown. When thrown back on, the iPAQ will have lost all installed software and revert to its original factory configuration (except your contacts will not be lost - see question III.14).BA  BA-U 12. trs hWhy should I buy the Compaq CarePaq when the iPAQ already comes with a warranty?BAW%C rs The CarePaq provides next business day replacement, meaning Compaq will send you the replacement iPAQ (assuming they have them) BEFORE you have to send in your defective iPAQ. With the regular warranty, you must first send back your defective iPAQ and then wait for the replacement to arrive.BA18 Since the CarePaq can be ordered at anytime during the initial warranty period (1 year), some people have decided to wait for their iPAQ to break before ordering the CarePaq. Remember that you will have to wait for CarePaq paperwork to arrive and call to activate it before it can be used. Also, term of coverage for the CarePaq begins from the time you purchased the iPAQ, not the time you purchased the CarePaq. However, Compaq relies on you to be honest and tell them when you purchased your iPAQ (they ask when you call to register/activate your CarePaq). BA]QX The CarePaq is $50 for 1 year, $75 for 2 years, or $100 for 3 years. You can pay year to year by paying for the next year of CarePaq coverage anytime before the expiration of the current year of coverage (except it will be $25 more expensive per year). You can contact Compaq at 1-800-344-4825 to purchase the CarePaq (part # FM-2AMAI).BA  BA&8~ 13. trs hHow does storage memory differ from program memory?BAe\z rs Unlike a regular PC, the iPAQ does not have a hard drive. Accordingly, it must apportion its 32MB of RAM between storage (similar to storing files on a hard drive) and running programs (just as a PC uses the RAM from its SIMM and DIMM). If you use a storage card, such as a CompactFlash card, that will give you more, but separate, storage memory.BA  BA!$j 14. trs hIs the iPAQ sidelit or backlit?BAK rs The iPAQ is sidelit, meaning the illumination emanates from the sides of the screen. This is one of the reasons the screen is so clear outdoors. The operating system refers to it as backlighting because most other pocket pcs use backlighting.BA  BA+L 15. trs hIs there a noticeable difference between 12 bit color and 16 bit color?BAd>v rs 12 bit color produces a maximum of 4,096 colors. 16 bit color produces a maximum of 65,536 colors. As to whether this makes a difference or not is subjective. Check out http://www.pocketpcpassion.com/General/RickJ/colordepth.htm and http://www.pocketpcpassion.com/General/RickJ/colordepth_2.htm for a good comparison.BA  BA  Back to topBA \ II. rs  HARDWAREBA(9 1. trs hHow long can the iPAQ run on a fully charged battery?BAf^| rs Compaq claims the battery life of the iPAQ is 12 hours. This may be true using the iPAQ with the sidelight off and intermittent, if any, application use. Constant use of the iPAQ (such as playing an .mpg file off a MicroDrive) with the sidelight on its highest setting will yield about 1.5 hours of use. Viewing an .mpg on a MicroDrive with the backBA  BA*I 2. trs hIs the iPAQ's battery Lithium Ion Polymer, Li-Ion or Lithium Polymer?BA rs The battery in the iPAQ and in the PCMCIA Expansion Pack is Lithium Ion Polymer. Compaq abbreviates this to Lithium Polymer on their web site and further abbreviates it to "Li Ion" on the back of the iPAQ. The proper abbreviation should be "Li-Polymer." The Lithium Ion Polymer battery is the same as the Lithium Ion battery, except that it uses gelatinous electrolyte rather than liquid, enabling it to be manufactured in various shapes and sizes for custom requirements.BA  BA,Q 3. trs hWill I have to send the iPAQ back to Compaq in a year to replace the battery?BA$ rs Battery life is measured in cycle life, which is the number of charges/discharges. The cycle life of a Li-Polymer battery is listed at more than 500. I think this refers to full discharges/charges. Accordingly, even if your iPAQ ran out of power and fully charged it every day, the battery would last for almost a year and a half. However, the battery cannot be replaced without opening the iPAQ, which means you will have to send it back to iPAQ to be replaced (or risk voiding the warranty if you open it yourself).BA  BA%2x 4. trs hWill excessive charging decrease battery life?BAB` rs "Lithium ion does not suffer from any ill effects from constant charging. However, in general, it is best to keep the battery charged up when ever possible. You see, battery cycle life is shortened by deep discharging, meaning that if you discharge the battery fully, that has a greater long-term ill effect on the battery than if you discharged it only 50% and then recharged it. The best way to maximize the life of your cellular is to avoid deep discharges in general." - response from David Sugrue of GS Battery (USA) Inc. after being asked this question by Dale Coffing.BAX_  Also, the battery cannot be overcharged using the A/C adapter that comes with the iPAQ.B A    B A $1w  5. trs hDoes the iPAQ have 16MB or 32MB of Flash ROM?B A?j rs Some iPAQs have 16MB and some have 32MB of Flash ROM. The latest ROM (version 1.77.00) correctly displays the amount of Flash ROM. However, the iPAQ only utilizes half of its ROM (16MB). Also, it is said that using this ROM, such as with a program that allows the iPAQ to use this as additional storage memory, would not be advisable as Flash ROM is not meant to be written as often as standard RAM. See http://discussion.brighthand.com/showthread.php?s=1be4918827153065e5f283c54606f58f&threadid=21151 for a poll on which iPAQs contain 16MB Flash ROM and which contain 32MB.BA  BA&8~ 6. trs hWhich third party companies can upgrade my iPAQ RAM?BA'\ rs As of the date of this FAQ, here is a chart (including the extras - thanks to Ed Caggiani): BA    BA    -                                 ^                                     \            5            s             $rs    BA< Company  128MB RAMBA%RUpgrade 64MB RAM Upgrade  Stylus Lock BA2dUpgrade  Screen Clean & Seal  Time  Backup  Warranty  rs     -                                 ^                                     \            5            s             $BA !    -                               ^                                  \           5           s            $rs   Times2Tech  $149 B!A"  # B#A$7%(return shipping extra)  $25  $25  2-3 days  NONE  90 days  rs     -                               ^                                  \           5           s            $B%A&Z'  rs   PCE2000 $349.00B'A( )B)A*6F+(lower if part of previous 64MB upgrade promise) $149 B+A,  - B-A.9!/(includes return shipping)  $25  $25  3-4 days  YES  90 days  rs     -                               ^                                  \           5           s            $B/A0#q1  rs   LinearLogiX Corp  $99 in July B1A2  3 B3A45$139.95 after July B5A6  7 B7A8,_9(includes return shipping)  NONE  $15 in July B9A:  ; B;A<&=$20 after July  1-2 days  NONE  90 days  rs     -                               ^                                  \           5           s            $B=A>?    -                               ^                                  \           5           s            $rs   palmpilotupgrade.com  $129 B?A@  A BAAB$-tC(includes return shipping)  NONE  $25  2-3 days BCAD  E BEAFGplus 24-hr. test  NONE  90 days  rs     -                               ^                                  \           5           s            $BGAH2I  rs   BIAJ*K rs  BKAL#*pM 7. trs hWhy does the type of processor matter?BMAN *O rs The iPAQ central processing unit (CPU) is the 206 MHz Intel StrongARM 32 bit RISC Processor. There are other handhelds that contain other processors yet still use the Pocket PC operating system. The difference is that software and device drivers need to be written for both a specific processor and a specific operating system. Accordingly, a driver or program that works in the HP Jornada 540, which uses the Hitachi SH3 processor, would not work in the iPAQ unless it was specifically written for the StrongARM Processor.BOAP Q BQAR)BS 8. trs hIs it safe to charge my iPAQ's battery in a different country?BSAT.U rs Yes. The iPAQ power transformer/adaptor can handle the dual voltages (120/240) so you just need a travel adapter for the pins.BUAV W BWAX%3yY 9. trs hWhy are there holes in the front of the cradle?BYAZ4R[ rs The holes in the front of the cradle are for styli.B[A\ ] B]A^4l_ 10. trs hHow can I release the rails on the inner sides of the cradle that get depressed by the Expansion Pack? B_A`Oma rs Press the release tab on the back center of the cradle (while the iPAQ is not in the cradle) and the guide rails will pop back up. The rails should be in the up position when synching a naked iPAQ (or an iPAQ with a slimmed down Expansion Pack, such as the Silver Slider) and down, when synching an iPAQ with an Expansion Pack. The Expansion Pack will automatically depress the guide rails when the iPAQ is inserted into the cradle. The rails will lock in the down position until the release button is pressed. Simply inserting a naked iPAQ into the cradle will not release the guide rails.BaAb c BcAd")oe 11. trs hDo I need to use a screen protector?BeAf?]g rs Many people forego screen protectors (including the author) due to the slightly decreased screen visibility. Scratching does occur on the naked screen with use of the normal stylus, but the scratches are very minor and very difficult to see. The author originally thought his iPAQ screen was scratch free. However, I noticed several minor scratches after viewing the reflection of an external light source on the screen at an angle with the iPAQ off. Also, there is always the chance of a small particle on the screen or the tip of the stylus causing scratches, so be weary.BgAh@Ti Others use either Fellowes WriteRight screen protectors (cleaned on the up side, while off the iPAQ, with rubbing alcohol) or homemade screen protector (check out http://www.dalecoffing.com/General/ScreenProtector/ScreenPAQ-O-matic.htm). Some people who use screen protectors notice scratching and thank the screen protector for taking these scratches instead of having them end up on the iPAQ screen. Keep in mind that these screen protector scratches may not have been scratches on the naked iPAQ screen, which seems more resistant to scratching than the screen protectors.BiAj~k Also, if you do develop scratches, some people have suggested using STP Son of a Gun or AmorAll (yes, the car products) to make them disappear. I would be afraid to try it, but if it is a last resort, maybe I would. Check out http://www.portablelife.com/tips/story/0,1091,2465,00.html for a good article and http://discussion.brighthand.com/showthread.php?s=9c1b67482ee71ff3cd9296286219be18&threadid=19336&highlight=screen+protector for a poll.BkAl m BmAn"'mo 12. trs hHow can I safely clean the screen?BoApY*Hq rs The safest method is to treat the screen like a camera lens or pair of glasses. Use a cleaning clothe made with microfiber, which can be purchased in any photo supply store or glasses store (called chamois clothes or wipes). Microfiber doesn't scratch. Cotton is slightly abrasive and may scratch.BqArs Also, make sure there aren't any tiny grit particles on the screen, wiping with even the softest cloth will rub these around and scratch the screen. You may want to use a soft lens brush clear the screen first. DO NOT use compressed air. This seems like a logical choice to clear the screen of particles that have accumulated on the outside of the screen - but don't do it. Compressed air contains super cold liquid that sometimes comes out with the air. This will damage your iPAQ's screen. Even if test you spray the can first so all the liquid seems to have been expelled, a slight tilt of the can will cause more liquid to be released.BsAt"5u There are other screen cleaning methods, such as using STP Son of a Gun (in the yellow spray  bottle - supposedly fixes scratches), toothpaste (also to fix scratches) and Isopropyl alcohol. These are not confirmed to be 100% safe for the iPAQ screen and should be avoided unless you have some hard evidence as to their efficacy. If you are going to use a liquid, apply it to the cloth and then use the cloth to apply the liquid to the iPAQ. Do not apply the liquid straight onto the iPAQ screen, as it may hit the sides and seep under the screen.BuAv3w rs h BwAxcy 13.  trs hCan the iPAQ vibrate?ByAz7{ rs   Not as sold. The iPAQ does not contain the hardware that would allow it to vibrate, even though there is a function in the registry for vibration.B{A|Y:K} However, PDAorDIE (http://www.pdaordie.com/article/pdaordie01/pdaordie01_e.shtml - Japanese) is coming out with an upgrade that will add vibrating hardware to the iPAQ. This will be useful for such things as vibrating alarm or feedback for games. They also claim to be offering a buzzer and a longer life battery.B}A~> rs h  BA(A 14.  trs hWhere can I find detailed technical information on the iPAQ?BA":o rs http://www.handhelds.org/Compaq/iPAQH3600/iPAQ_H3600.htmlBA= rs h BA / rs Back to topBA#p rs hrs h  BA` III.  rs  SOFTWAREBA'7 1. trs hHow do I download and install software on the iPAQ?BAfT| rs Make sure the downloaded software works on a WinCE 3.0/Pocket PC operating system running on the StrongARM processor (see question II.7 - if it lists SH3 or MIPS instead of ARM, it will not work properly on the iPAQ). You can install software on a Pocket PC in one of three ways, the software you are installing dictates the proper method.BA5 Connect your iPAQ via the cradle/cable and ensure ActiveSync has completed synching the iPAQ. You can use a Guest connection to install software (a Partnership is not required).BA  BA If the software file you downloaded was compressed (for example, if the extension of the downloaded file is ".zip") you must uncompress the file on your PC (using a program such as WinZip). Once uncompressed, you should be left with several files in the same directory into which you downloaded the software. If there is a readme file or other ".txt" or ".pdf" file, read it. It should explain how to install the software. Usually, a "setup.exe" file will be among those extracted.BA  BA\c If the software file you downloaded or extracted is an ".exe" or ".com" file (such as "setup.exe"), run the file on your PC. It will either be a self-extracting file (a compressed file that uncompresses itself when run) or it will begin the installation process. During the installation process (which will seem to be taking place on your PC), the program may ask to install to the default directory. This is referring to whether you want to install the program directly onto your iPAQ or onto a storage media connected to the iPAQ, such as a CompactFlash card or MicroDrive. If you choose no, you can then change the installation from "Main Memory" to the "Storage Card" in the Select Destination Medium pop-up dialog box. Once completed, you should check your iPAQ to see if anything further needs to be done to complete installation (such as a soft-reset).BA  BAQ!( If you receive an error message stating that the program was not designed to run with your version of Windows, this means that it is a Windows CE program and you should then copy the program across to your iPAQ and run it from there, as per the instructions listed below for ".cab" files.BA  BAl Lastly, if the software file you downloaded or extracted has the ".cab" extension, you should copy the file to your iPAQ using ActiveSync's file explorer (click the "Explore" button). Once the software is on your iPAQ, use iPAQ's File Explorer to browse to the file location and run the program on your iPAQ by tapping its name. Follow the installation instructions that are displayed on the iPAQ.BA  BA[?P Each of these methods should create an icon for the software on your iPAQ from which you can run the software after installation (to make your own shortcut icon, see question III.16). The icon should be in the Programs folder on your iPAQ, sometimes in a sub-folder (like Games). Run the program by selecting its icon.BA  BA Note: It is possible to download and install PC-based installer programs on the iPAQ without using the PC by renaming a copy of the file as Whatever.zip. Then you can unzip the file using a zip utility (such as bSquare's bUseful Zip from http://bsquare.com/products/me/enterprise/buseful.asp or Resco File Explorer from http://www.resco-net.com/resco/en/solution_explorer_p.asp) and then have on-device access to the downloaded program .cab. This will require a file editor (see question III. 23). Then you just tap an item, wait a second, tap it again, and it gets highlighted for renaming. You can tap once and then select the menu renaming option as well, or double tap to open.BA  BA"'m 2. trs hCan I run Palm software on my iPAQ?BA rs Not normally. Different operating system and different processor = No. But there is a Palm emulator available at http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Monitor/8604/Beta/PilotCE/ or http://www.conduits.com/ce/apps/copilot.asp. It is called Copilot CE for Palm-size PCs, but it doesn't save the RAM, it hasn't been updated in a while and the web page says that it isn't compatible with the iPAQ and with Palm OS 3.x (only 2.0).BA  BA] 3. trs hWhat are emulators?BA=[ rs An emulator imitates a system. It allows a program from a completely different system (a Nintendo, an arcade box video game, etc.) to run on your iPAQ. So if there was an old game you would love to play on the iPAQ or if there is a current game on another system that you want to see on your iPAQ, find the right emulator and get the game's program in a format that the emulator can access and you should be set. Just remember that there can be several versions of the game's program and many of them may not work. Keep searching and testing until you find one that works.BA  BA$.t 4. trs hWhat emulators are available for the iPAQ?BA$It rs Go to http://www.pocketpcgames.net/emulation/ for a very extensive list.BA  BA$0v 5. trs hWhere can I find free software for the iPAQ?BA&P rs The most comprehensive list on the web thus far is at http://www.ipaqsoft.net/.BA7> But don't forget the programs that came with the iPAQ:BA _f Compaq CD-ROM: Pocket Asset Manager, AudiblePlayer, AudibleManager, Ilium eWallet and ListPro.BA  BA"fm Microsoft ActiveSync CD-ROM: Pocket Streets, Transcriber, Microsoft Money, and Windows Media Manager.BA  BAy Paint - It's built into Word so you may have overlooked it. Open a new document (or any document) and click on View and select Drawing. Up pops the toolbar for the drawing tools (if you don't see it, click on the up/down arrows box at the bottom). The drawings are also created as vector objects, so you can undo every change. Also, tap and hold on an object for other functions, like creating circles, boxes, etc. There is a group function as well.BA  BA3h 6. trs hAre there any applications for the iPAQ to change the screen image while it is docked in the cradle?BA rs All Palm PDAs are able to display the date and time, in large font, on the screen while docked. With added software, the iPAQ can do this even better. There is Pocket Watch by Conduits (http://www.conduits.com), which has world time-display map, and DockWare (http://www.iliumsoft.com) which has both free and fee versions (more options with the purchased version - excellent program) of its desk clock and calendar with your own pictures in the background.BA  BA%/x 7. trs hWhat is Transcriber and where can I get it?BAT4 rs Transcriber is a program that comes on the ActiveSync CD under the Extras folder. Once installed on the iPAQ it allows you to write in normal letters, print OR script (not Graffiti) anywhere on the screen and it will recognize the writing and insert it where the cursor was.BAG Although it works great, it can (and should) be tweaked to your preferences. You don't need to train it, like a voice recognition program. Rather, you go through the options and set the recognition to the way you most often write the characters.BA   BA%/x 8. trs hHow can I print with the iPAQ via infrared?BAZ-N rs Hewlett Packard's JetSend CE: This does NOT work for the iPAQ, even though Hewlett Packard's website states that it works for the StrongARM processor and WinCE 3.0 Pocket PCs. HP claims to be working on the problem. It could be that it was designed for a different version of the StrongARM processor.BA   BA5? Field Software Products has three such applications:BAEY Pocket Clip Print - http://www.fieldsoftware.com/PocketClipPrint.htmBA7K PrinterCE - http://www.fieldsoftware.com/PrinterCE.htmBA9M PocketShot - http://www.fieldsoftware.com/PocketShot.htmBA  BA&: Report CE from http://www.syware.com/BA  BA#)r 9. trs hIs there spellchecker in Pocket Word?BA&G rs No. It doesn't support tables either.BA   BA$-v 10. trs hIs there a pocket version of PowerPoint?BAV= rs No. A good work around is to save your PowerPoint slides as JPEG images. Then use PIE or a picture viewer to view them. The images should be about 50k per slide. Also check out http://www.microsoft.com/mobile/pocketpc/columns/powerpoint.asp for more information on this topic.BA   BA&6 11. trs hCan I view Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) files on my iPAQ?BAR/ rs Yes. Adobe has a beta version out for free. Simply register at http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/ppcbetareg.html and then it will take you to the download page. The documentation can be found at http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readerforppc.html.BA#_s You can also buy Ansyr's Primer software from (http://www.ansyr.com/products/primerwince.asp).BA  BA'8 12. trs hWhat is the difference between Vindigo and AvantGo?BAhc  rs These are off-line programs that synchronize with web based information. Vindigo is a city guide that has maps, directions, restaurant reviews, movie times, etc. Unfortunately, Vindigo hasn't been ported to the iPAQ, yet. AvantGo allows you to choose web sites (called channels) that synchronize and download onto your iPAQ for later viewing through PIE.B A :  A similar portable guide that supposedly goes way past Vindigo is http://www.portableinternet.com. It has an initial free trial period, but unlike Vindigo, its ultimate use is not free.B A    B A.V 13. trs hHow can I increase the allowable storage space for AvantGo beyond the 2 MB limit?BAko rs You cannot, but there is a work-around. Create a second (or third, fourth, fifth) AvantGo account, with another set of channels. To switch between your accounts, click the tiny word 'TOOL' on the AvantGo channels page on your iPAQ (not the PIE Tools), tap the 'TOOL' link, and then tap 'CHOOSE SERVER' link. Now you can select which avantgo account you want to view.BA  BA#*s 14. trs hWhat is Flashman and what does it do?BAn| rs Flashman backs up your contacts to the Flash ROM of the iPAQ and it restores those Contacts after a hard-reset. You can disable Flashman by either 1) going to QUtilities->Backup->Save Contacts->Disable or 2) removing Flashman from the start folder, then deleting all your contacts and doing a soft reset (after a hard reset the Flashman program will be placed back where it was).BA   BA g 15. trs hWhat is Internal Use Spy?BAw rs  It is a developer tool, a mobile equivalent of Spy++. It tells developers crucial facts about a window to help them debug their applications on device. To get to it, hold the Action button down while on the Today Screen, tap and hold for a second or two on the start bar between the clock and the start logo, remove stylus from screen and then let go of action bar. The Internal Use Spy window will now appear.BA rs BA -O! 16. trs hHow I can create shortcut icons for certain programs/games I've installed?B!A"5# rs Sync your iPAQ with your desktop and leave the iPAQ connected. Go to "My computer" on your desktop and click on "Mobile Device." Navigate to the program that you want a shortcut for (usually in "Program Files") and right click on the program and drag it in the same window and when you release the mouse button, select "Create Shortcut". Select the shortcut and hit "CTRL X" or right click and select "Cut." Paste ("CTRL V" or right click and select "Paste") the shortcut into "\windows\start menu\" in the Mobil Device (the iPAQ).B#A$  % B%A&?' 17. trs hWhy did the map I downloaded for Pocket Streets lose its common street name (it now appears as "SR"#(State Road) or "CR"# (City Road) on the map)?B'A(=) rs This is an issue with Pocket Streets. When you download a map, Pocket Streets looses the common street name and it only lists the uncommon name "SR"#(State Road) or "CR"# (City Road).B)A*F+ Microsoft says it appears that it's a problem with the design. Some streets have two addresses, and the map export process only takes one of them (in this case, the incorrect one). They are working on the problem and hope it will be fixed soon.B+A,  - B-A.0[/ 18. trs hIs there any way, besides ActiveSync, that I can control my docked iPAQ through my PC?B/A0 5f1 rs Yes. Virtual iPAQ: http://www.hive.speedhost.com/ce/ B1A2 3 B3A4%)x5 19.  trs hDo I need a screen saver on my iPAQ?B5A6[/P7 rs No. PDA screens do not work the same as PC monitors, on which the same image left on the screen for a prolonged period of time can "burn" into the screen such that an after image is left on the screen even after the image is no longer displayed. Any screen saver programs for the iPAQ are just for fun.B7A8  9  B9A:&4}; 20. trs hDo I need virus protection software on my iPAQ?B;A<.r= rs You be the judge. Check out http://www.microsoft.com/mobile/pocketpc/reviews/mcafee.asp for an excellent article.B=A> ? B?A@3jA 21. trs hIs there a version of PCAnywhere for the iPAQ that will allow remote control of desktops and servers?BAABSC rs Currently, PCAnywhere has not been ported to the iPAQ. However, most people use VNC (Virtual Network Computing). The VNC servers are located at http://www.uk.research.att.com/vnc/ and the iPAQ-compatible viewer can be downloaded from http://www.conduits.com/ce/apps/vnc.asp or http://www.allware.com.mx/windowsce/. Many claim it works even better than PCAnywhere and VNC is also free. If you encounter problems with VNC, use :0 as the default display number. Using IP addresses it should look like something this: 10.0.1.11:0BCAD2E Install the Server on the PC and the client on the iPAQ. Also, under Options, make sure "Restrict pixels to 8-bit" is checked. Put in the IP address and enable http.BEAFd`tG Citrix makes a client that will work on the iPAQ which can be found at http://download.citrix.com/. It is supposed to be faster than VNC. The client is free, but the Citrix Metaframe server (the program that runs on the PC) is not. The free client may be able to work with MS Terminal Server and Windows 2000 Terminal Services but this is unconfirmed.BGAH"[oI Also check out - http://www.mobileadministrator.com. Although it may not work on the iPAQ.BIAJ K BKAL)@M 22. trs hHave Doom, Hexen, Heretic or Quake been ported to the iPAQ?BMAN(IO rs Yes for all four and they are all FREE!BOAP/Q Jimmy Software has ported Doom to the iPAQ. It is free and can be downloaded from http://www.jimmysoftware.com/Software/Doom4CE/index.html.BQAR,S Quake has also been ported to the iPAQ. It is also free and it can be downloaded from http://www.pocketmatrix.com/pocketquake/.BSAT QeU Oke-e-doke also has Hexen and Heretic, both free, at http://www.oke-e-doke.com. BUAV W BWAX#'pY 23. trs hCan I use my iPAQ like a TV Guide?BYAZ <g[ rs Yes, with Pocket TV Listings http://ptvl.thumbsupsoft.com/.B[A\ ] B]A^'7_ 24. trs hHow can I change the default Zoom level for Notes?B_A`_?`a rs In NoteTaker go to Templates directory, then to Tools/Options... (bottom), then to Global Input Options (bottom), you can change the default zoom level for writing to whatever zoom factor you like, say 100%. Then all notes created with the Blank Note template will have 100% (or whatever you chose earlier) as default.BaAb  c BcAd2fe 25. trs hWhy do I get an error trying to install Pocket Streets 2001 from the Streets & Trips 2001 CD ROM?BeAfeUyg rs The version of Pocket Streets on the Streets and Trips CD is not compiled for the iPAQ's processor. The one on the ActiveSync 3.1 CD (under E:\Extras\PStreets\PocketPC\) works on the iPAQ. There are also several maps in on the CD. Microsoft made this version available for download from their website for limited, but that time is over now.BgAh i BiAj,Lk 26. trs hWhat do Dashboard, GigaBar, WIS Bar, PocketNav and Pocket Informant do?BkAl[m  A. rDs  DashboardBmAnto  rs  SnoopSoft Dashboard from http://www.snoopsoft.com/pocketpc/dashboard.html is a customizable viewer for your basic Personal Information Management (PIM) needs. It replaces the functions of the Today screen (you can use it as a stand-alone program if you'd still like to use your Today page for other things) and provides built-in views for Agenda, Mail, Tasks and a Program Launcher.BoApZCMq Basically, it gives you better view of your system and basically allows Themes/skins. It is great for personalizing your Pocket PC, but doesn't really add to the existing iPAQ PIM functionality. It allows you to switch between different headings (Mail, Calendar, Contacts, etc...) but uses the iPAQ PIM functions to do so.BqAr ]s  B.  rDs  GigaBarBsAtu  rs  GigaBar from http://www.gigabar.com/ replaces the CE TaskBar on the iPAQ. This new TaskBar (the GigaBar) provides buttons to switch or close currently running tasks and multifunction icons. With these, you can launch applications, perform a host of common functions, and browse files. All of the functionality of the old TaskBar (and way more!) is available through the GigaBar, and you can customize its look and feel with Skins and Schemes.BuAv&\~w rs  There is a learning curve involved with using GigaBar due to its tremendous custom-ability.BwAx)zy Check out http://www.pocketpcpassion.com/General/NeilF/install_configure1.htm for a good article on configuring GigaBar. ByAz Y{  C.  rDs  WIS BarB{A|_0c}  rs  WIS Bar from http://www.walkers.ne.jp/ww/wisbare.html is not as feature rich as GigaBar, but it still does everything a task management utility that stays on the title bar should. If you are worried about GigaBar, or you have used GigaBar and found that its functionality is a bit overdone, try WIS Bar.B}A~[  D.  rDs  PocketNavBA&  rs  PocketNav from http://www.scottandmichelle.net/scott/cestuff.html is a Task Switcher for the iPAQ. It allows you to close any program and gives one tap access to the desktop at any point. It is a completely different program from GigaBar. Similar programs include Resco's TaskManager (http://www.resco-net.com/resco/en/solution_task_p.asp), Developer One's TaskPro Navigator (http://www.developerone.com/) and Stellarmetrics' Go (http://www.stellarmetrics.com/Software/go.htm).BAb  E.  rDs  Pocket InformantBAv  rs  Pocket Informant from http://www.pocketinformant.com/ replaces the iPAQ's built in contacts, calendar, tasks, notes, alarms, etc. with more powerful full featured versions in one integrated application. Pocket Informant adds PIM features that really should have been in the iPAQ but aren't. An example, when you view a day in your calendar you can also see tasks that are linked to that day. BA*q rs Pocket Informant also now has a Dashboard plug-in allowing you to use it instead of the iPAQ's PIM in Dashboard.BA   BA)B 27. trs hWhy can't I find any files using the Find tool in the Q-Menu?BAB rs Because the Find tool is not a file search tool. Find is a data search tool. If you click on "Type:" it will drop down a menu for All data, Calendar, Contacts, Inbox, etc. Use File Explorer to find files.BA   BA1a 28. trs hIs there a way to change file-type extensions (like *.txt to *.htm) on the Pocket PC itself?BAO  rs This is possible via ActiveSync from the PC desktop, but editing the extensions on the iPAQ itself requires an real file manager, such as PE File Explorer from http://vieka.com/ or ftpview from http://www.pocketpcsoft.net/zips/ftpview.zip.BA   BA  Back to topBA: rs   BA!j IV.  rs  SYNCHRONICITYBA2a 1. trs hWhat are the actual file transfer speeds of the Serial Cable/Cradle and the USB Cable/Cradle?BA> rs For real life tests, the Serial Cradle transfers data at about 8 k/sec and the USB Cradle transfers data at about 75 k/sec. If you use a CompactFlash card or MicroDrive, buy a card reader. BA  BA5r 2. trs hCan I synchronize the same iPAQ on one PC with a Serial Cable/Cradle and a second PC using a USB Cable/Cradle?BA-} rs Yes. You just have to tell the iPAQ how it's supposed to communicate before actually plugging in the different cable/cradle.BA3 For the Serial Cable/Cradle, on the iPAQ tap Start->Settings and choose the "Connections" tab. Tap the "PC" icon, and select one of the serial speeds. 115,200 should work.BA? To make things easier, you can create a new connection (tap "New Connection" in the port speed window). Name it, for example "Work" (if you use USB at home and Serial at, you guessed it, work) and set the proper rate.BA* For the USB Cable/Cradle, on the iPAQ Tap Start->Settings and choose the "Connections" tab. Tap the "PC" icon and select USB this time.BA  BA.W 3. trs hCan I synchronize my iPAQ with Lotus software (Lotus Organizer and/or Lotus Notes)?BA p rs Yes, but you will need to purchase third party software which will run after ActiveSync (you need both on the PC), such as: Includes Puma Technology's Intellisync (http://www.pumatech.com/intellisync.html), Extended Systems' XTNDConnect PC (http://www.extendedsystems.com/products/pcsync/), River Run Software's All in Sync! (http://www.riverrun.com/ais/personal/index.html) or CommonTime Ltd.'s (http://www.commontime.com/) Cadenza. Check out: http://www.microsoft.com/mobile/pocketpc/tips/synclotus.asp for a current list.BA  BA/Z 4. trs hCan I synchronize my iPAQ with 2 PCs; one running Outlook and the other running Lotus?BAN rs Yes. In fact, with third party software (see question IV.3, above) on the PC running the Lotus program, you will actually wind up synchronizing both Outlook and the Lotus program (ex. the calendar programs in each) with each other via the iPAQ!BA^R\ For example, you make an appointment in Outlook's calendar and sync with the iPAQ, which adds that appointment to the iPAQ's calendar. Then you sync the iPAQ with the PC running Lotus Organizer. The sync software will take the iPAQ's calendar's appointment (originally created in Outlook) and add it as an appointment in Lotus Organizer.BA   BA\W 5. trs hHow can I get an event to show up as Free in Organizer's calendar (so that the day is not entirely filled with this one appointment) but Busy on my iPAQ's calendar (so that the event shows up as a banner in day view and the day has a box in it when in monthly view)?BAu rs Re-occurring events, such as Holidays, should be marked as "Free" in the "Show time as:" section in Organizer. Then, on the iPAQ, the same event should be set to "Busy" in the "Status" section of the appointment. Both "Show time as:" and "Status" have the same choices, Free, Tentative, Busy and Out of office and they do correspond with each other upon synchronization. However, the event will keep its different setting (Free/Busy) after synchronization provided the changes are made in the order above, first in Organizer and then on the iPAQ. The event will show up as a banner on the iPAQ with the day's appointments clear.BA/ This does not work for all day events that occur only once. For these, the "Show time as:" and "Status" sections will synchronize to the same setting.BA   BA)B 6. trs hCan I sync 2 PC (2 partnerships) Outlook Inboxes with my iPAQ?BAV= rs No. The Inbox synch is only possible with the FIRST partnership you created. If you want to sync with the second partnership, you will have to delete both partnerships and recreate them being sure to create the partnership first with the PC on which you want to sync Outlook's Inbox.BA   BA': 7. trs hWhy doesn't my USB Cradle/Cable work with my computer?BAf]~ rs Win95, despite its claims, does NOT support USB (even if you have WIN95b which specifically claims to support USB). It has been suggested that an old Hewlett Packard driver for the USB port could get it to work for WIN95, but this is unverified. If you have WIN95, you will either have to upgrade your operating system or buy a serial cradle/cable.BA>H If you have WIN98 or 2000, here are some links that may help:BA!Ui BrightSpot discussion thread: http://www.brighthand.com/ubb/Forum33/HTML/000256.htmlBACW Microsoft links: http://www.microsoft.com/pocketpc/tips/w2kusb.aspBA?U http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q260/0/61.ASPBA?Y http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q184/4/00.ASPBAH` OpenHCI- http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q253/6/97.ASPBAMa UniversalHCI- http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q240/0/75.aspBAFZ Bugnet article on SR-1: http://bugnet.com/alerts/bugalert_000327.htmlBADX Compaq FAQ: http://web14.compaq.com/falco/detail.asp?FAQnum=FAQ4513BALb Pocket PC FAQ: http://www.dalecoffing.com/General/PocketPC/PocketPC_FAQ.htmBA  BA+G 8. trs hWhy does AvantGo access my floppy drive when I synchronize my iPAQ?BA2 rs From AvantGo:BA2: Our new AvantGo 3.3 software activates your A drive in order to support SSL and sync securely. It does not read or access any of the information on the A drive. We understand that some users may find this behavior confusing and plan to change this very soon. You can remove the C:/Program Files/AvantGo/Mobilelink/secnet.dll file and you will no longer see this behavior. However, if you delete this file you will be unable to sync secure channels. You will be able to download a version of AvantGo that does not activate your A drive from our site in the nearBA  future.BA Instead of following their advice, a safer method is to remove the iPAQ from the cradle. Go to "Windows Explorer" in C:\Program Files\AvantGo\Mobile Link. Rename the file "secnet.dll"to file _secnet.dll. Do not delete the file. Place your PPC back in the cradle and sync. This should do the trick. If you get a message stating that the file is in use, hold down CTRL and press the ALT and DEL keys on your PC keyboard at the same time and End Task "Wcescomm" and try again.BA  BA#*s 9. trs hWhy does AvantGo take so long to sync?BAI rs Try turning off the Autodetect function. Please do the following on your desktop: Click on Start->Programs->AvantGo->Mobile Link. Click on the Connection tab. Click Change. Uncheck the box that says Automatically detect settings. BAw If you connect to the Internet through a proxy server, you will need to manually enter your proxy settings in Mobile Link. I suggest you ask your administrator for the proxy host name or static IP address and the port number, if you do not know what they are. To manually enter your proxy settings, on your desktop click on Start->Programs->AvantGo->Mobile Link. On the Connection tab, click Change. On the HTTP line, enter the following: BA, Address: (your proxy server's address - do not enter the http:// portion of your server's address) Port : (your proxy server's port number)BA#0 Click OK, then try the sync again.BA  BA4k 10. trs hHow can I store my AvantGo channel web pages on my storage card instead of the iPAQ's internal memory?BA\ V rs Go to http://www.phm.lu/PocketPC/RegTweaks/Tweak.asp?ref=6 or http://www.cewindows.net/wce/30/avantgocf.htm and follow the instructions. If you want a push button solution, use Registry King from http://www.cewindows.net/applications/regking.htm (it's great and it works with ROM 1.77).BA   BA)D 11. trs hHow do I import files (Word, Excel, pictures, etc.) to my iPAQ?BAQv rs  To import files, either (a) move them into the Pocket PC file folder on your PC's desktop and then sync the iPAQ or (b) click on the Explore button on ActiveSync and browse to the iPAQ (double click on Mobile Device) and then copy the files directly into the My Documents file folder on the iPAQ ( just like moving them to a floppy. Just drag and drop). Note that these methods will use ActiveSync's settings to import the files and (if necessary) convert them to a format for the iPAQ. Also, the picture viewer displays your pictures actually size (i.e. if you have a 800x600 image, it's only going to display the top of the image, which is 320x240 minus the pixels on the side and top and bottom on the iPAQ). You might want to use an image editing application to scale down the picture to fit on the iPAQ screen before exporting it to the iPAQ.BA   BA "  Back to topB A  f  V. rs  INTERNETB A 0U  1. trs hCan I access the Internet via the Cradle/Cable using my PC's Internet connection?B A&G rs Yes. The following sites explain how:BA5K http://www.brighthand.com/html/howto/usbconnect.htmlBA'A http://palmpc.homestead.com/proxy.htmlBA. http://www.pocketpcpassion.com/General/LawrenceBates/connectwin2000.htm#Creating%20a%20Serial%20Connection%20on%20your%20PocketPCBA  BA': 2. trs hHow can I access the Internet wirelessly with my iPAQ?BAz rs All of these choices require an Internet Service Provider ("ISP"), just as a regular PC dial-up connection to the Internet requires an ISP. Some web-enabled cellular phones allow separate dial-up access to the ISP that provides the web access for the phone, but these seem very slow and unreliable (ex. see http://www.geocities.com/bobstro/sprint_pcs_qnc.htm). So, you will still need a separate ISP you can dial into.BA  BA5 Wireless LAN: For this you need a PCMCIA Expansion Pack and a wireless LAN PCMCIA card that works with the iPAQ to connect to you PC's LAN (Large Area Network) via radio waves.BA  ! B!A"cRs# Wireless Modem Card: Sierra Wireless (http://www.sierrawireless.com/ProductsOrdering/pocketpc.html) makes a wireless PCMCIA modem card that works with the iPAQs PCMCIA Expansion Pack. Compaq also sells this card with and without the required PCMCIA Expansion Pack at (http://www5.compaq.com/products/handhelds/pocketpc/accessories.html).B#A$ % B%A& ' Digital Phone Card to Cellular Phone: For the hardware set-up, you will need a cellular phone, a CompactFlash modem card, the CompactFlash Expansion Pack for the iPAQ and a cable to connect the card to the cellular phone. In some cases you will have to install drivers. Socket Communication (http://www.socketcom.com/dpcprods.htm) and Xircom CompactCard GSM (http://www.xircom.com/cda/page/0,1298,0-0-1_1-518,00.htm) sell the CF cards, which are available for GSM and CDMA cellular phones.B'A( ) B)A*[IP+ Infrared to Cellular Phone with built-in modem: The cellular phone must have an infrared port that uses the IrDA (Infrared Data Association) standard and a built-in modem (check with the cellular phone manufacturer - if the phone is web-enabled, meaning it can access the World Wide Web without a PDA, it has a built-in modem). B+A, - B-A.}/ Serial Cable to Cellular Phone with built-in modem: For the hardware set-up, you will need a cellular phone with a built-in modem (see Infrared to Cellular Phone with built-in modem, above), a serial cable or cradle, a null-modem adapter  (this is a small connector that has 2 female ends) and a special cable that connects your cellular phone to the null modem adapter  (these are cellular phone specific and are usually expensive - $100+).B/A0  1 B1A2$E3 Soft Modem: This is software that emulates a modem on your iPAQ. Then you connect your iPAQ to your cellular phone as described in "Serial Cable to Cellular Phone with built-in modem," above. Some Soft Modems have a special cable available, such as from TDK, which fits on the Pocket PC as well as to the cellular phone, obviating the need for the serial->null modem adapter->special cable connection. There are soft modems available from TDK (http://www.tdksys.com/Products/softmob/indexce.html) and Option (http://www.option.com/softradius.htm).B3A4 5 B5A6!Pj7 OmniSky: Check out their website, http://www.omnisky.com, for more information.B7A8  9 B9A:[,R; Ricochet: Metricom, Inc., the owner of Ricochet (http://www.ricochet.net/), has filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. On August 2, 2001 the Company announced plans to shut down its Ricochet wireless data network operations in all of its markets.B;A< = B=A>D? Once the hardware is ready, simply go to Start->Settings->Connections and hit Modem->New connection. Enter name for connection, select a modem, and enter the access phone number and other required setting from your ISP. Then hit Finish.B?A@ A BAAB)@C 3. trs hWhich Internet Service Providers ("ISP") work with the iPAQ?BCAD^'_E rs There is a great list of ISPs and their wireless settings at http://www.cewindows.net/wce/isp.htm#Compatible. A similar list resides at http://www.hpcmag.com/Jan00/ispinfo.htm. You can also contact your ISP or check their website for information on how to configure your iPAQ to access the ISP.BEAF G BGAH+GI 4. trs hCan I get and send email via a web-based email service on the iPAQ?BIAJ&K rs Yes.BKAL  M BMAN&5~O 5. trs hHow can I access my Hotmail account with my iPAQ?BOAP3TQ rs Yes. Follow these steps: (1) In ActiveSync go to Options, Mobile Link, Setting, Properties and check "Connect to this server using a secure protocol," then click OK. [Note: If you have been receiving a security error message, this should stop the error]; (2) Logon to Hotmail with your login name and password, then copy the login URL; (3) Logon to AvantGo and create a new channel (for the title, just use HotMail); (4) Paste ("CTRL C") the Hotmail URL in the location; (5) In the link depth put 1 (some have suggested 20). Also, check Yes to Include Images and Follow Off-Site Links; (6) Save; and (7) Sync your device. [Note: Upon opening Hotmail on your device you will be asked for your login name and password. After you tap "Send" you'll get a message stating that your request will be submitted and will be sent next time you sync. Re-Sync and then give Hotmail (aka MSN Mobile Hotmail) another try.] You're able to read and reply to mail right on the device. One thing I don't like is the lack of the Address Book, so all of your addresses must be typed in by hand.BQAR  S BSATBU 6. trs hDoes Pocket Internet Explorer ("PIE") support everything the full version of Internet Explorer supports, such as animated GIFs, JAVA, Secure Connections, etc.?BUAVQ|W rs Full-blown Java applets, animated .gif files, and Dynamic HTML are the three main technologies that are not supported by Pocket Internet Explorer. Pocket Internet Explorer can access sites using SSL layer encryption of 40 bits or 128 bits (if you download and install http://www.microsoft.com/mobile/pocketpc/downloads/ssl128.asp). Pocket Internet Explorer will not tell you if you've entered a secure site. You have to check by tapping View and then Properties. However, if you leave a secure site, Pocket Internet Explorer displays a warning notifying you about the security context change.BWAXXGY There is a ShockWave plug-in for PIE that is runs Flash 4 available from http://www.mobilemutant.com/ .  There is also a registry hack from http://www.phm.lu/PocketPC/RegTweaks/Tweak.asp?ref=1 that makes websites think that PIE is actually Internet Explorer version 5.5.BYAZ [  B[A\-I] 7.  trs hIs it possible to use a free ISP with my iPAQ to access the Internet?B]A^)]_ rs Yes. Check out http://www.geocities.com/daveinfopage/palmpilot_freeISP.html for the details.B_A` a BaAb4\c 8. trs hWhich sites can I use to test the speed of my wireless connection on the iPAQ using PIE?BcAdT6e rs Most modem speed checking websites don't seem to work with PIE on the iPAQ. The only sites that do seem to work for throughput testing on the IPAQ are http://bandwidthplace.com/speedtest/ and http://computingcentral.msn.com/internet/speedtest.asp.BeAf g BgAh"ni 9. trs hWhat is BlueKite? BiAjk rs BlueKite is a California-based software company and the name of the software that they created that speeds wireless internet performance. Their website is http://bluekite.com. The software can be downloaded from http://support.bluekite.com/download.htm. Note that BlueKite will not work if the registry hack from http://www.phm.lu/PocketPC/RegTweaks/Tweak.asp?ref=1 is installed (the hack makes websites think that PIE is actually Internet Explorer version 5.5).BkAl m BmAn o Back to topBoAp0q rs  BqAr!js VI. rs    ACCESSORIESBsAt(:u 1. trs hCompactFlash Expansion Pack and PCMCIA Expansion Pack:BuAvcw  A. rDs  Which is better?BwAx+Py  rs The answer depends on what type of expansion you are seeking. A CompactFlash Expansion Pack allows you to use various storage medium and a limited number of other devices (such as a CF modem). The PCMCIA Expansion Pack offers a wider range of accessories (including the use of virtually any CompactFlash device via a CF to PCMCIA adapter). The PCMCIA Expansion Pack also includes a spare battery. However, the PCMCIA Expansion Pack is rather large. The CompactFlash Expansion Pack is smaller and can be modified into the Silver Slider to be even smaller.ByAz+H{  B.  rDs  Is Compaq honoring the rebate for the CompactFlash Expansion Pack?B{A|:}  rs Yes, it just takes several weeks. However, the rebate is no longer available to new iPAQ purchasers. There never was a PCMCIA Expansion Pack rebate offer from Compaq.B}A~%1z  C.  rDs  What is the Silver Slider and who makes it?BAz  rs The Silver Slider is a modified CompactFlash Expansion Pack made by George Mosquera. George is a true artist who makes the CompactFlash Expansion Pack look the way it should. He slims it down (both width and depth) and paints it, all without diminishing its functionality. The Silver Slider is what the CompactFlash Expansion Pack should have been from day 1. You can email George at GGM685@prodigy.net. His pricing changes depending on shipping method, whether you send him your CompactFlash Expansion Pack, etc., so email him for his latest price. He is very trustworthy and reliable. Here are some links with reviews and pictures:BA9R http://www.pocketnow.com/reviews/sleeve/gmmodsleeve.htm.BA+5  D.  rDs  Is the IBM MicroDrive compatible with the iPAQ?BA  rs Yes. All capacities, up to and including the 1 Gig. MicroDrive. Note that there are pull tabs on the 540MB and 1 Gig. MicroDrives which are not mentioned in the literature or the website. Just remove the small black rubber tabs (shaped like arrows) from the top corners of the drive to reveal the catch slits. The earlier drives require either a piece of tape as a pull tab or the use of a fingernail on the center lip to remove them from the CompactFlash Expansion Pack, as it has no eject mechanism.BA%,y  E.  rDs  Do I need to format my IBM MicroDrive?BA  rs No. Compaq says Some of the MicroDrives built after Jan 2001 would not be properly identified by the iPAQ and the user would be prompted to format the MicroDrive. If the iPAQ gives you a message stating that your MicroDrive is unformatted and asking if you would like to format it, answer no. If this message appears often (such as every time you insert the MicroDrive or turn on the iPAQ), download the patch from http://www.compaq.com/support/files/handhelds/us/download/10344.html.BA(8  F.  rDs  Is the Kingston Datapak compatible with the iPAQ?BA$Qv  rs Yes, the 2 Gig. Kingston Data pack is compatible with the PCMCIA Expansion Pack.BA+C  G.  rDs  Will type III PCMCIA cards work in the PCMCIA Expansion Pack?BA6  rs Only if you use the Dual-Slot PC Card Expansion Pack. Check out a review at http://www.pocketpcpassion.com/iPAQ/DualSlotPC/dualslotPC.htm.BA8w  H.  rDs  Why can't programs on my iPAQ "see" files (music, movies, eBooks, maps, etc.) on my CompactFlash or storage card?BA>  rs This is a "feature" of WinCE. Create a new folder called "My Documents" on the storage card and store any files there. They can even be in sub-folders within the My Documents folder.BA  BA'< 2. trs hCan I hot swap cards in the CompactFlash Expansion Pack?BA)m