Compaq Aero 1530: Slimmed-Down
Windows CE
By Richard S. Shim, Computer Shopper
February 14, 2000
Windows CE Palm-size PCs (PPCs) have long been
derided for their clunky interfaces and chunky
chassis—not to mention high prices—when compared
with Palm Computing devices. Compaq Computer
Corp.'s new $299 Aero 1530 aims to counter these
criticisms, and it does so with remarkably satisfying
results.
Just a half-inch thick, the 1530 is half the heft of most
PPCs, although that's still a quarter-inch thicker than
the ultra-svelte Palm V. And even though it's a half-inch
longer than a Palm V, this 5-inch-long device easily
disappears into a shirt pocket and weighs only 5
ounces.
The 1530's 3-inch display size is a little roomier than
that of the Palm V, although it's not quite as clear. In
backlight mode, the negative areas of the screen are
lighted—an approach that's effective in completely dark
environments but not so useful in dim lighting. Adjusting
the contrast helps, and this can be accomplished very
easily thanks to the QMenu software.
QMenu, QUtilities, and File Explorer are apps designed
to make the Windows CE operating system a breeze to
use. They enable you easily to switch between or close
tasks, adjust volume, change screen conditions, and
manage files. The unit also comes with the usual
complement of Windows CE applications, including
Pocket Outlook and the desktop version of Outlook
2000, a $200 value. You seamlessly synch these apps
via the docking station.
AudiblePlayer, also included in the software bundle,
lets you listen to spoken-word files through the built-in
speaker or via headphones. Sound quality is acceptable
through the mono speaker, although the headphone
jack delivers higher audio quality, which makes it ideal
for MP3 playback. Though the unit doesn't come with
MP3 player software, you can install your own.
Like most Windows CE-based units, the 1530 exhibits
some performance glitches. Although amply powered
by a 70MHz NEC MIPS-based RISC processor, 16MB
of RAM, and 16MB of ROM, the 1530 still hiccups
when multiple applications are in use and pauses briefly
when searching for a contact. Fortunately, through the
QMenu utility, you can increase overall performance by
closing inactive applications. And if you're looking for
room to expand or install a modem, the 1530 includes a
handy Type I Compact-Flash slot.
Since the 1530 comes with a monochrome display, its
battery life is longer than other PPCs that come with
color screens. We found that the unit lived up to its
14-hour rated battery life.
Among the current lineup of PPC devices, the Aero
1530 shoehorns a broad range of functionality into a
trim, lightweight unit. And it does so at a price that will
make even Palm aficionados sit up and applaud.
Product: Compaq Aero 1530
Rating:
Direct Price: $299
Pros: Low price; slim case; good software bundle
Cons: Bloated operating system; slow performance
Company: Compaq Computer Corp. (Company Info),
Houston, TX; 800-345-1518; www.compaq.com
As Tested: 70MHz NEC MIPS-based RISC CPU;
16MB RAM; 16MB ROM; 240x320, 16-gray-scale
monochrome LCD; one Type I CompactFlash slot; IrDA
interface; built-in speaker and microphone; headphone
jack; lithium-ion battery; automobile power adapter
Check prices: Compaq Aero 1530 |
