On Thu, Jul 13, 2000 at 09:34:06AM -0400, Pete wrote:
> We presently have a customer whose application needs include mapping
> functions ( that is display some mapping data and pen drawing right on
> the hand held) along with standard field task management ones as
> currently handled in our software. The mapping resolution would parallel
> the need to guide someone from one address to another much like the
> Rand-McNally street atlas.
>
> The Pocket PC devices tend to have much better screen resolution for
> mapping displays however their costs are somewhat prohibited ($499
> each). The Palm OS device costs much less ($149 each) though the
> resolution is not quite as good. Our customer is seeking 2,500 units
> which would mean a difference of $900,000. Our opinion is to convince
> the customer to use the inexpensive Palms and to later update the units
> as technology changes. (Expecting that a much better than today unit
> will be available by the end of next year with a better color resolution
> for about $299.)
I use QuoVadis on a Palm V (with a RM GPS!). [www.marcosoft.com if
you want to check it out]. It does greyscale maps, but they are quite
readable and work well. They work on the color palm too.
I don't think you are going to see a $299 highrez color device, and
even a IIIc is unlikely since the LCDs themselves are the bottleneck.
Apparently they can't produce enough of them. PocketPCs all but
require (because of WinCE) the high rez, high color depth (add the
corrolaries: lots of processor power, low battery life) to work well.
I doubt you will see any PocketPC for under $350 (A second reason is
the WinCE license itself - it only disappears into the hardware cost
above this point - and it applies to PCs - this analysis is from Eric
Raymond from his keynote at MacHack).
Conversely, I see the simpler Palms going down in price and adding
different types of devices. You will see advanced palms for $299, but
they might be something like the ligher Vx instead of something with
more features.
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