i-Mate JAQ4 review
Network and connections
The I-Mate JAQ4 pocket PC uses a Texas Instruments processor as its hardware platform. As for memory capacity, the I-Mate JAQ4 offers 64 MB of RAM and 128MB of ROM memory. The model is a Quad-band smartphone capable of operating on the GSM network at frequencies of 850/900/1800/1900 MhZ. EDGE and GPRS connectivity allow reliable and secure data transfer, even if not particularly fast. The device also supports all the main wireless communication protocols available today: Wi-Fi wireless, Bluetooth, and infrared (IrDa). As for wired connections, the body features various I/O connection ports: more precisely there is a USB port, one for the AC/DC adapter, and the input for 2.5 mm stereo headphones. Power, finally, is provided by the powerful 1200 mAh lithium battery.
Design and features
JAQ4 has a compact and modern design, in "candybar" style. The somewhat squared shapes wrap a well-finished body, whose overall dimensions are: 113 millimeters in height, 67.3 millimeters in width, and 19.7 mm in thickness. These features and the internal antenna make the model an easy-to-handle and practical tool. The software package is rich and includes: organizer, calculator, notes, and alarm clock. The I-Mate JAQ4 is available in the pleasant black color (Black) with Silver finishes. The hardware package, moderately rich, includes several accessories: power adapter, USB sync and charging cable, stereo earphones, case, CD-ROM, and user manual. The large LCD display is a QVGA TFT type, active matrix, and is built with low-temperature polysilicon. It boasts a diagonal of fully 2.8 inches, features 262144 colors, and has a resolution of 240x320 pixels.
Main features
The operating system is Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC Phone Edition, whose package includes several Microsoft applications at the latest release, in "Mobile" version: Internet Explorer, Outlook, Windows Live Messenger, Microsoft Pictures, Adobe Reader LE, ActiveSync, and the ever-present suite for viewing, managing, and using MS Office files. It allows the use of SMS, MMS, and e-mail messages, with the help of the simplified writing system. The memory expansion slot, finally, is compatible with Mini Secure Digital cards.
Entertainment and multimedia
This model is capable of playing and managing audio files in MP3, WMA, AAC format, as well as video in AVI, MPG, and WMV format, as well as polyphonic ringtones. The software for managing the multimedia area is Windows Media Player. It is also possible to download new content from the network. The GPS navigator built into the I-Mate JAQ4 has a system based on the SiRF Star III chipset capable of interfacing perfectly with the handheld's software.