The New Compaq iPAQ

Microsoft has announced that it has a developed a ROM chip that will fit into the back of Palm-size PCs, allowing users to upgrade from CE to the newest version of Pocket PC. The only draw back to this plan is that Microsoft cannot distribute the chip themselves. Since the OEMs that produce Pocket PC devices customize these chips, there is not a generic chip that will work with all devices. You have to get the chip from your specific device maker. So if you are planning on upgrading to Pocket PC any time soon I would recommend getting in touch with your device maker as soon as possible. It is very likely that there will be a small number of chips made available immediately, so be on the look out for any announcements concerning your particular device. Here are a couple of sites that will help you find out when and how you can upgrade your device.

	Compaq 2100

Compaq: For the Aero 2100/1500 you can now purchase the upgrade chip from the Compaq website, $69.00 for the 1500 and $99.00 for the 2100 chip.

Casio: Casio will be offering its E-100 and E-105 users a trade-in package. According to Casio they will initiate the plan sometime in the summer but details are not available at this time.

Hewlett-Packard: Though they have said that they will be offering an upgrade in the future, details were not available for HPs plans. Check back to the Hewlett-Packard website for more information.

Philips: So far Philips has not announced any plans to provide upgrades for the Nino. Remember that this device was discontinued in 1999 so upgrades may be available only in a limited supply.

Everex: Everex has not announced any plans to offer upgrades. Like the Nino, the Freestyle was discontinued in 1999 because of poor sales so do not expect a whole lot out of Everex.

HP/Cs: Don't forget that the larger CE models, HP/C and HP/ professional are not upgradeable to Pocket PC. While I would expect that some sort of upgrade will be made available in the future it doesn't look like it will be using the initial version of Pocket PC.

Missed a feature? Find just the one you are looking for in our back issues collection.

Have an idea for a great Feature? Use our Feature Submission and tell us about it. Who knows, you may see your suggestion on the pdaJD.com home page.