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View Full Version : Ready to Buy a Dell Pocket PC?


Jason Dunn
11-18-2002, 08:30 AM
If you're ready to order a Dell Pocket PC, I just so happen to be a Dell affiliate, and I'd sure appreciate your support. <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=qRhM6INiIvY&offerid=29744.10000340&type=3&subid=0">Click here to go to Dell's PDA page.</a><img src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=qRhM6INiIvY&bids=29744.10000340&type=3&subid=0" />My assumption is that Dell will be posting their Pocket PCs up on this page sometime today (though likely not until 8 AM EST or so). I'll post again when they are really there... :wink:

Kati Compton
11-18-2002, 08:32 AM
They really are there already. :)

Well, not *THERE*, as the ship date is later than expected.... :(

Really, I just want it HERE. :)

sweetpete
11-18-2002, 08:49 AM
Looks good and everything seems to be up. Lots of accessories ready to ship with it (keyboard, case, WLAN and BT CF cards).

Ship date is a couple weeks away, but I have to say it's nice to see everything ready to go!

Pony99CA
11-18-2002, 08:52 AM
They really are there already. :)

Well, not *THERE*, as the ship date is later than expected.... :(

Really, I just want it HERE. :)
The order page is up, you can customize the PDA (with accessories, basically), and you can add it to your shopping cart. The ship date was listed as 12/5 for the $299 version.

I didn't try ordering one, as I want the iPAQ 5450. :-)

Steve

jeasher
11-18-2002, 09:05 AM
Jason, I thought you were taking time off?

Yeah they're up alright. I went and configured myself a model and found out something interesting: you can order a 300 mhz PDA with 48/64 MB of memory. Just go to the step-up model and then highlight the 300 mhz option (subtract $100). I wonder if it'll stay that way because the base model becomes a moot point (same processor minus the extra memory). How does a Bluetooth-enabled PDA sound for under $300 with the 48/64 MB package? Am I crazy here?

Also, am I the only one who thinks this machine is huge? I use a way outdated Handspring Visor Deluxe and I've looked forward to the day that my next PDA will be small and light like the tiny Palms. I'm going to switch to Pocket PC and I love the V35 but I don't know when I can get it. Isn't it ironic that my next PDA may actually be BIGGER and HEAVIER than my current PDA. Of course, it's 10x more powerful with a color screen...

Rirath
11-18-2002, 09:14 AM
you can order a 300 mhz PDA with 48/64 MB of memory. Just go to the step-up model and then highlight the 300 mhz option (subtract $100).

I think that's a mistake on the page. If you select the lower end dell, with the less rom/ram, that becomes selected as default. It's probably a mistake. It looks like it doesn't come with a cradle though... that's an extra $20! :? As for size, we've been over this for weeks now. Some, including myself, are willing to trade size for specs.

jeasher
11-18-2002, 09:30 AM
As for size, we've been over this for weeks now. Some, including myself, are willing to trade size for specs.

I missed some of that debate. I carry my PDA in my suit pocket and I'm not sure if I can handle any additional size. I may give it a try though. I checked Dell's return policy and it's 30 days money-back guarantee. But it also says Software & Peripherals have a different policy. We'll see.

jizmo
11-18-2002, 10:26 AM
Jeasher,

The debate was (among other things) about Dell having the best feature / price -ratio, but it's not the most visually attractive device out there.

I myself am puzzled at the moment whether I should go for the power and features offered by Dell, or the prettier and less powerfull newcomers, Viewsonic and the low-end iPAQ.

I spend money on clothes, that look good and I feel that the accessories are also a part of how you look. Dell just doesn't seem that good looking when jugded to other new PPC devices, but this is only judging by the pictures. I know this is vain, but that's just the way it is with people.

Guess I have to get my hands on new Dell before I can really tell whether I like it or not. As mentioned earlier on the forums, there's a lot of inexplicable mysticism involved in buying a PDA and many times it just really boils down to how the device feels like in one's palm. By then you can just tell if you like the device or not.

/jizmo

binoj
11-18-2002, 11:14 AM
Is the Axim 400 mhz model shiping with an USB cradle? When I added Axim400 to the cart and went to the detailed view, it showed that the PDA, an USB sync cable a and 1 yr warranty included in the cart..

I thought the axim 400 shipped with the cradle as standard accessory

binoj

Rirath
11-18-2002, 11:21 AM
Hard to say, but I'd say no it's not included. $20 ain't so bad. I'm waiting til 8am to call up Dell and ask some questions before ordering. I don't think there's anything magical about 8am really, but it's the number that's been thrown around a lot. As for specs vs vanity, I'm a specs kinda guy. I still think the Dell looks great anyhow.

I think I may just skip the cradle if that's the case and get a 64 or 128 meg SD card instead. Having 128 CF, 128 SD, and 64 megs ram all in one machine would be wonderful. That's a lot of MP3 and MPEG files. :wink:

davea
11-18-2002, 12:45 PM
I need to be able to connect my GPS Serial interface to the Dell.

Post here if someone knows or can ask Dell about that option.

Thanks,

BigCanoe
11-18-2002, 01:59 PM
The Viewsonic has no stated ship date does it? I havent read about anyone actually recieveing one yet.

msprague
11-18-2002, 02:03 PM
you can order a 300 mhz PDA with 48/64 MB of memory. Just go to the step-up model and then highlight the 300 mhz option (subtract $100).

I think that's a mistake on the page. If you select the lower end dell, with the less rom/ram, that becomes selected as default. It's probably a mistake. It looks like it doesn't come with a cradle though... that's an extra $20! :? As for size, we've been over this for weeks now. Some, including myself, are willing to trade size for specs.
It looks like they corrected this. The options now are:
Intel® X-Scale™ Processor 400Mhz, 48/64MB, 3.5 QVGA Display
Intel® X-Scale™ Processor 300Mhz, 32/32MB, 3.5 QVGA Display [subtract $80]

Ed Hansberry
11-18-2002, 02:05 PM
I think this is going to be big. Dell pays attention to the little things - one reason I buy their laptops/PCs/Servers exclusively now.

Look at the Flash demo - see the Today Page? Dell logo'd. No other OEM has bothered to create their own custom logo for the device that I know of. They keep the basic MS Mobile logo.

Ed Hansberry
11-18-2002, 02:08 PM
The prices are lower than expected too. The 64MB 400MHz verison is $329 - then you get a $50 rebate - that is $279. :) Plus their order page is classic Dell. Drop dead easy to order accessories like spare batteries, memory cards, the folding keyboard, extra stylus etc.

blazingwolf
11-18-2002, 02:16 PM
It looks like you need to add the cradle on to your purchase. However, if you add it on you will pay the originally quoted price of $349. After the rebate it's back down to $299. Of course you save if you don't get the cradle. :D

BigCanoe
11-18-2002, 02:22 PM
OT: How much can I get for an original iPAQ 3650? :)

Rirath
11-18-2002, 02:29 PM
The news about an OPTIONAL cradle is wonderful. Maybe I'm blind, but it didn't look like that was the case earlier this morning. Thankfully they've fixed the ram/rom typo. I've been waiting to order all morning, but it looks like they were still working out the bugs.

Sslixtis
11-18-2002, 02:29 PM
Well, I've ordered mine! The Cradle is an additional $20 so to speak, but if you get just the Travel Sync cable it is only $279 after rebate :lol:

The $299 price does include the cradle. Only thing that disappointed me was that the 3440mAh High Capacity battery isn't available yet, even though it is listed on the tech specs page. :cry:

Ships on or before 12/5

Xyress
11-18-2002, 02:36 PM
Dell just updated their page within the last hour. They removed the snap-on keyboard ($49), removed the 3440mAh battery ($129) and reduced the price on the higher end model from $349 to $329 to make up for the optional cradle which was originally assumed to be included.

BigCanoe
11-18-2002, 02:43 PM
Is it SDIO compatible?

heyday
11-18-2002, 02:47 PM
Man I think it is funny that many of you guys are placing orders already when the site and options keep changing by the hour. I'm not trying to offend or put down anyone but but I'm just here chuckling to myself over here.... :-)

heyday

Rirath
11-18-2002, 02:51 PM
Heyday, many of us already know the gist of what we're gonna get... a few little changes aren't going to make or break things.

Llew Silverhand
11-18-2002, 02:55 PM
So, what's with the rebate being US residents only? Is it too hard for them to accept mail from Canada? Or they just favoring you guys... :?

I don't like it, but may have to deal with it.

Chris

Kirkaiya
11-18-2002, 03:00 PM
So, what's with the rebate being US residents only? Is it too hard for them to accept mail from Canada? Or they just favoring you guys... :?

I don't like it, but may have to deal with it.

Chris

They are just favoring us, we're special !!! :-)
As soon as Canada comes around, and becomes the next 5 states, well, then the rebate issue will be moot! (Did I just say that? OMG! :twisted: Just TEASING !!!!!!!)

Foo Fighter
11-18-2002, 03:58 PM
Great prices! I'm surprised Dell actually allows so many customization options. That's uncommon for handheld devices.

I'm still skeptical as to how well these devices will sell since Dell is, for now, only making them available DIRECT. We'll see.

Llew Silverhand
11-18-2002, 04:01 PM
Hmm, well also found out we can't even order it here in Canada. Dell.com only ships to the US.
Of course there is a dell.ca, but it hasn't been updated with the PDA's yet.
Just have to wait and see, then there may possibly be a rebate for us.

Chris

toml
11-18-2002, 04:18 PM
Nice specs, great price.

Dell mentions a 3400mAh battery (umm... _wow_ is all I can say), but it's not available to order from the order page? wtf?

More pictures would be nice too. Would like to see where the expansion slots are, where the headphone jack and jog-dial is, if the 3400mah battery adds extra size (like a sled), things like that.

Janak Parekh
11-18-2002, 04:20 PM
Nice specs, great price.

Dell mentions a 3400mAh battery (umm... _wow_ is all I can say), but it's not available to order from the order page? wtf?
I think their page is still evolving. A lot of these accessories aren't available yet.

Seeing as how this is Dell's first entry into the PDA market, one might have to wait for their site to stabilize a bit :)

--bdj

Xyress
11-18-2002, 04:21 PM
This morning there were actually *more* options available. The 3440 mAh battery was among them at $129. I'm very curious to see if this adds more bulk as well. If not, it's a no brainer - $129 is a bargain.

enemy2k2
11-18-2002, 04:24 PM
STILL not on the Canadian site. What are these guys doing? One option that I was hoping for already showed up on the US site, and that was being able to buy the 400Mhz unit without a cradle. Looks like I may just end up ordering that, if it ever finally does come up on the .ca site...

ThomasC22... I'm still curious about your news pertaining to the ROM update :D

PPCRules
11-18-2002, 04:28 PM
Dell's small business site lists more accessories (big battery, snapon keyboard), but I would suspect that most of the acccessories are not ready to ship, anyway.

jpaq
11-18-2002, 04:39 PM
They really are there already. :)

Well, not *THERE*, as the ship date is later than expected.... :(

Really, I just want it HERE. :)
The order page is up, you can customize the PDA (with accessories, basically), and you can add it to your shopping cart. The ship date was listed as 12/5 for the $299 version.

I didn't try ordering one, as I want the iPAQ 5450. :-)

Steve

HP has the loan aps for the new 5000 series here:
www.coststoomuch.com
or
www.shouldhavehad128MBforthatprice.com

Seriously, to avoid flaming (sounds a bit frilly) the new HP's may be great for the purposes of some but they just seem to be priced so high!

PPCRules
11-18-2002, 04:39 PM
Great prices! I'm surprised Dell actually allows so many customization options. That's uncommon for handheld devices.

I guess that's the Dell edge. I was wondering how they could apply their build to order model to something like a PDA, which I pictured coming boxed from Asia. But they must pack it up with your accessories when you order it (or within the next 2-1/2 weeks :) ).

The Sync cable is $10, the cradle is $30 ($20 more as a substitute for default cable). And you can pick the low model with cradle, or even both. But I noted that on the PDA accessory page, the cradle is priced at $39, so if you anticipate ever getting one, you save by gettting it with the PDA order.

xbalance
11-18-2002, 04:40 PM
Sure things are changing on the Dell site, but I'm sticking to the basics with this order so the accessories don't matter to me.

I ordered the 400Mhz with; both the cradle and the USB sync and screen protectors (I placed my order at 4am).

All the other accessories can wait. Especially the case, it was not to my liking.

Happy shopping everyone - may you find your new favorite PDA from these great offerings from Dell, ViewSonic and HP. :x-mas:

PJE
11-18-2002, 04:54 PM
All the other accessories can wait. Especially the case, it was not to my liking.

Can anyone point me to a picture of the $29 Leather case...

I'm currently using a Vaja case on my iPaq and would like a similar format.

Regards,

PJE

Foo Fighter
11-18-2002, 04:55 PM
But I noted that on the PDA accessory page, the cradle is priced at $39, so if you anticipate ever getting one, you save by gettting it with the PDA order.

Thanks for the tip, but I don't plan on buying a Dell PPC.

Rirath
11-18-2002, 04:55 PM
I ordered the 400mhz one by phone to avoid the website's problems. I just had to ask the guy about the SDIO, he says no it's not of course. I checked about the return policy, 30 days. I may regret it later, but I requested the 400mhz model without the cradle to save $20. I was put on hold for a second while he made sure that was actually possible. He was under the impression it was the $349 with free cradle. After they checked it out though, it was no problem and I got it with cable only for $329. :D

And about the cradle being $40 seperate... that's not as bad as it sounds. Basically you'd pay nothing for the cable (Probably $10 of the base price) OR $20 for the cradle OR $30 for the cradle and the cable. So, if you just get the cable now and a cradle later, you're only losing $10. I'd rather apply the $20 toward buying a 128mb SD card at the moment, so it was a pretty good deal. Heck, I may not even buy a cradle... my current one has been a pain from time to time. They said stuff like the batteries aren't ready from the company that handles it, no big mystery. Thought about them screen protectors... but man I hate that rubbery feel on the screen. I'd rather put up with minor wear and tear over the years. Meant to ask about the Picture Viewer and PowerPoint software but forgot. :? Ah well.

Welp... now it's just a matter of passing the 3 or so weeks until it arrives at my door. Anyone know any good 128mb SD deals? I'll probably just go with Amazon.com... $64.75 at the moment, no tax or shipping. Beats Dell's $79.

kagayaki1
11-18-2002, 05:15 PM
I think it's important to remember the Dell isn't HUGE, like everyone keeps describing. In fact, if you read the dimensions in the flash demo, you'll see that the PDA is nearly inch for inch, ounce for ounce, the same as my naked 3870 iPAQ. I'm not too sure that's too much to complain about, unless you've had a Toshiba e310 in your pocket for a while, or you've been creating prototype Viewsonics to shove in your pocket before it really was released.

For what it's worth,
-Jason

Xyress
11-18-2002, 05:17 PM
Yeah, the size is a non-factor for me. I have an EM-500 and it is just fine. I'm just concerned about the build quality, dust, & D-pad.

If all of those check out, I'm going Dell all the way.

Underwater Mike
11-18-2002, 05:18 PM
I checked Dell's return policy and it's 30 days money-back guarantee. But it also says Software & Peripherals have a different policy. We'll see.

I don't think the "Software & Peripherals" terms apply, since the coupon entry box wouldn't accept any current S&P offers. At any rate, a few days will be enough to decide whether this device is a keeper.

deaj
11-18-2002, 06:46 PM
HI,

Just to know thqt ifr you buy a USA today paper of today, the axim is advertised annd the $349 model (-50 rebate) is with 64mb ram and 64mb rom stratflash (intel). How cool is that ? :D

Jos

Ed Hansberry
11-18-2002, 06:55 PM
Great prices! I'm surprised Dell actually allows so many customization options. That's uncommon for handheld devices.

I'm still skeptical as to how well these devices will sell since Dell is, for now, only making them available DIRECT. We'll see.
Huh? It was indicated to me that these would be available in the Dell Kiosks. The Nashville area alone has 5 of them in large malls. That is more than Gateway does, and the people selling them are a HECK of a lot more knowledgable than CompUSA/Best Buy min wagers.

shawnc
11-18-2002, 06:57 PM
Does anyone know if the foldable external keyboard listed on the small business site is a Targus. I have been going back and forth between the Dell and Viewsonic. I prefer the Viewsonic (though that preference is not very strong) but the external keyboard is critical for me. I have a Targus with my 3650 Ipaq. If Dell has a Targus, AND it is available immediately, then that might sway me to the Dell. I remember when Toshiba introduced their models they talked about all the accessories that would be available. From what I understand many of thosed promised have not materialized. I'm concerned about the same thing happening with the V35.

Also on a related note. I understand the concept of a rebate, but is anyone else irritated by the fact that since you can only purchase direct from, Dell basically you have to send them $349 to have them send you $50. I despise the concept of rebates/coupons but it seems especially annoying considering the retail seller and company providing the rebate are one and the same.........Just wondering.

Foo Fighter
11-18-2002, 07:00 PM
It was indicated to me that these would be available in the Dell Kiosks. The Nashville area alone has 5 of them in large malls. [snip] and the people selling them are a HECK of a lot more knowledgeable than CompUSA/Best Buy min wagers.

Yeah, well the problem is that most people buy their PDAs in retail outlets like Circuit City, Staples, Office Depot, Best Buy, and CompUSA. If Dell doesn't place "kiosks" in these locales, no one will even know Dell's PDA exists. Good luck with that.

Rirath
11-18-2002, 07:01 PM
I hated rebates until I worked at Staples for awhile. I began to take notice of just how many products had rebates, and how cheap stuff would become if I took advantage of it. So far I haven't had a single rebate offer stiff me and I've got some pretty sweet deals.

Ed Hansberry
11-18-2002, 07:11 PM
I am pleased to see Dell is hammering the Axim message. Go price a Dimension then click the software/periph. tab. Guess what is at the top? The Axim X5. :way to go:

BevHoward
11-18-2002, 07:17 PM
Was about to buy one, but I am back on the fence after spending some time on the tour (the tour in the Home & Personal) page.

Plus one... it has a jog wheel

Plus two... the SD plus CF, but we knew that

Minus one... no serial port... I was kinda expecting this

Minus two... apparently no IR port... bigger negative factor

Minus maybe... XScale processor... have the software speed issues been fully addressed yet?

Re the serial port, there is a PPC USB to serial cable being marketed... judging from the price it has no electronics... memory goes back to PocketDos which lists the PPC USB port as just another serial port with the name USB... hmmm

BevHoward
11-18-2002, 07:20 PM
the tech specs list an ir port, but it is not shown on the tour that I could see nor is it in the tech specs tab in the tour but it is in the product tech specs

SofaTater
11-18-2002, 07:21 PM
Also on a related note. I understand the concept of a rebate, but is anyone else irritated by the fact that since you can only purchase direct from, Dell basically you have to send them $349 to have them send you $50. I despise the concept of rebates/coupons but it seems especially annoying considering the retail seller and company providing the rebate are one and the same.........Just wondering.

This also mystifies me. Why can't Dell just apply a $50 price reduction instead of forcing customers to go through the rebate hassle? I suppose they will pocket some cash on this deal, since some people always neglect to apply for the rebate. However, I'm not sure what a mfr has to pay a fulfillment house to do rebate processing, but seems like it would be cheaper in the long run to just give paying customers a price reduction instead of a rebate...

mekmek
11-18-2002, 07:21 PM
STILL not on the Canadian site. What are these guys doing? One option that I was hoping for already showed up on the US site, and that was being able to buy the 400Mhz unit without a cradle. Looks like I may just end up ordering that, if it ever finally does come up on the .ca site...


The Canadian Dell website is always a little behind the new configurations available on the U.S. site. I don't expect to see the Axim listed there for a while. However I called Dell Canada and spoke to a sales rep who was just waiting to get the right SKU numbers to start placing Axim orders. So hopefully I will be able to order today. I think that Canadian customers should call Dell and ask to speak a sales rep in the peripherals section rather than wait for the website to be updated. I don't have actual prices yet, and I haven't seen any references to Canadian prices in other news articles. Sometimes Canadian Dell stuff isn't exactly a simple exchange rate variation of the U.S. price.

BevHoward
11-18-2002, 07:23 PM
In addition, the connector is listed as a 40 pin connector... now that indicates something additional... such as a serial port option or perhaps a sleeve option?

BevHoward
11-18-2002, 07:28 PM
the tech specs are in a flash window with a flash scrollbar... if you scroll by clicking near the bottom of the scroll bar, it skips the middle section of the tech specs.

khpchan
11-18-2002, 07:29 PM
STILL not on the Canadian site. What are these guys doing? One option that I was hoping for already showed up on the US site, and that was being able to buy the 400Mhz unit without a cradle. Looks like I may just end up ordering that, if it ever finally does come up on the .ca site...


The Canadian Dell website is always a little behind the new configurations available on the U.S. site. I don't expect to see the Axim listed there for a while. However I called Dell Canada and spoke to a sales rep who was just waiting to get the right SKU numbers to start placing Axim orders. So hopefully I will be able to order today. I think that Canadian customers should call Dell and ask to speak a sales rep in the peripherals section rather than wait for the website to be updated. I don't have actual prices yet, and I haven't seen any references to Canadian prices in other news articles. Sometimes Canadian Dell stuff isn't exactly a simple exchange rate variation of the U.S. price.

IF you find out the price and the SKU number, could you please post it here? I am looking for the 300 mhz version. Short on cash...

Jason Dunn
11-18-2002, 07:29 PM
Is it SDIO compatible?

No, it's not. Look back in this hardware forum a few days and you'll see a post about the Dell SDIO issue.

BevHoward
11-18-2002, 07:31 PM
Irritating it is, but profitable... because so many of us put it off and end up paying full price because the deadline passes

Ed Hansberry
11-18-2002, 07:33 PM
Is it SDIO compatible?

No, it's not. Look back in this hardware forum a few days and you'll see a post about the Dell SDIO issue.

I only see SDIO as an issue on SD only devices like the iPAQ 5450 or 3900. If there is an integrated CF slot, it doesn't matter IMHO.

Jason Dunn
11-18-2002, 07:36 PM
This also mystifies me. Why can't Dell just apply a $50 price reduction instead of forcing customers to go through the rebate hassle?

Silly as this seems, something like 50% of people never return the rebate! So Dell stands to make a lot of extra money here, even if they're not making much money on the people that fill out the rebate. There's a thread on our site about this - look for it, you'll find it VERY interesting.

Xyress
11-18-2002, 07:41 PM
I hate rebates - I never received my $100 rebate for my EM-500.

RE the kiosks in Nashville - which malls have them? I live in Nashville now and would like to check 'em out. Are they just general Dell kiosks? specifically Axim kiosks?

shawnc
11-18-2002, 07:41 PM
This also mystifies me. Why can't Dell just apply a $50 price reduction instead of forcing customers to go through the rebate hassle? I suppose they will pocket some cash on this deal, since some people always neglect to apply for the rebate. However, I'm not sure what a mfr has to pay a fulfillment house to do rebate processing, but seems like it would be cheaper in the long run to just give paying customers a price reduction instead of a rebate...

EXACTLY!!!!

Rirath
11-18-2002, 07:49 PM
I just can't go through with ordering this thing sans the cradle... Trying like crazy to get ahold of the dude I ordered it from at Dell so I can add the cradle. :? Can't reach em though... hope he's not gone for the day already. Tried other folk, they say only he can change it. :cry:

How does this thing recharge anyhow? From the pic of the cradle it doesn't seem to have an AC part... does it just recharge from the USB power? Would the travel cable recharge as well? :?: Doesn't look like it comes with an AC adapter...

-- Whew... got it switched. Feel much better. :D Still curious about how it recharges.

Ed Hansberry
11-18-2002, 07:50 PM
I hate rebates - I never received my $100 rebate for my EM-500.

RE the kiosks in Nashville - which malls have them? I live in Nashville now and would like to check 'em out. Are they just general Dell kiosks? specifically Axim kiosks?
I saw the one at Cool Springs. The radio ad also said Rivergate, Bellvue Center, Mall at Green Hills and Opry Mills had it. Interesting Hickory Hollow was left out. That place scares me though - I haven't been there in about 5 years, which is sad because I probably spent a few hundred hours there a year when in high school.

They are basic Dell Home/Home Office Kiosks. No servers, Optiplex or Latitude lines. Just Dimension and Inspirons. Plus the guy told me Axims starting this week.

mookie123
11-18-2002, 07:51 PM
I am pleased to see Dell is hammering the Axim message. Go price a Dimension then click the software/periph. tab. Guess what is at the top? The Axim X5. :way to go:

ehrr....Ed, you are so gushy. I think that Steve dude is thinking you are eyeing his job. :D

sweetpete
11-18-2002, 07:54 PM
So, what's with the rebate being US residents only? Is it too hard for them to accept mail from Canada? Or they just favoring you guys... :?

I don't like it, but may have to deal with it.

Chris

You're going to the US site and therefore it may offer US specific rebates only. If you are ordering from Canada, wait until dell.ca has it up. I just checked and the pictures are there, but when you go to configure it isn't working yet. Maybe later today...

jpaq
11-18-2002, 08:03 PM
I think it's important to remember the Dell isn't HUGE, like everyone keeps describing. In fact, if you read the dimensions in the flash demo, you'll see that the PDA is nearly inch for inch, ounce for ounce, the same as my naked 3870 iPAQ. I'm not too sure that's too much to complain about, unless you've had a Toshiba e310 in your pocket for a while, or you've been creating prototype Viewsonics to shove in your pocket before it really was released.

For what it's worth,
-Jason

Then consider the Naked Ipaq and the Toshiba E310 only have SD. The size isn't bad, then.

mekmek
11-18-2002, 08:29 PM
I just ordered the 400mhz model with cradle from Dell Canada over the phone: The Canadian price is $469, (after the $80 rebate). Delivery is in 15 days. The thumb keyboard and 3400mah battery are not available yet, but can be ordered directly in a week or so. Other things like the stylus 3 pack and screen protectors are available now.

If you are in a hurry and don't want to wait for the ordering to start working on the Canadian website, you can order by phone by calling Dell Canada Peripheral sales at 416-758-2243 (1-800-999-3355, ext 2243).

szamot
11-18-2002, 08:33 PM
Hmm, well also found out we can't even order it here in Canada. Dell.com only ships to the US.
Of course there is a dell.ca, but it hasn't been updated with the PDA's yet.
Just have to wait and see, then there may possibly be a rebate for us.

Chris

my rep told me to keep checking it - should be updated soon. But he did not defined soon.

yunez
11-18-2002, 08:37 PM
I just ordered the 400mhz model with cradle from Dell Canada over the phone: The Canadian price is $469, (after the $80 rebate). Delivery is in 15 days. The thumb keyboard and 3400mah battery are not available yet, but can be ordered directly in a week or so. Other things like the stylus 3 pack and screen protectors are available now.

If you are in a hurry and don't want to wait for the ordering to start working on the Canadian website, you can order by phone by calling Dell Canada Peripheral sales at 416-758-2243 (1-800-999-3355, ext 2243).
Thats fantastic..does Dell charge PST/GST and shipping for canadians?

EDIT: hm, they do charge PST/GST on other items on the site, but what about shipping?

Rob Borek
11-18-2002, 09:19 PM
ehrr....Ed, you are so gushy. I think that Steve dude is thinking you are eyeing his job. :D

Anyone want to get Ed's picture, and put beside it: "Dude, you're getting a Pocket PC!" :lol:

Gallivant
11-18-2002, 09:31 PM
The keyboard is *not* a Targus, annoyingly enough. If it were, I'd order one right now. But... well, it's not. Time will tell if what it has will actually be worthwhile; honestly, I can't believe anyone would possibly top, or even match, the Stowaway. It's an absolutely flawless design.

Paul P
11-18-2002, 09:40 PM
I have found some pics of the AXIM/5450/1910 from Comdex and posted them here:

http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4886&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=10

sweetpete
11-18-2002, 09:48 PM
The keyboard is *not* a Targus, annoyingly enough. If it were, I'd order one right now. But... well, it's not. Time will tell if what it has will actually be worthwhile; honestly, I can't believe anyone would possibly top, or even match, the Stowaway. It's an absolutely flawless design.

Maybe it is and it is rebranded to Dell? Have you called them to ask or seen any pictures of the design?

deo
11-18-2002, 10:07 PM
Hi All

I live in the uk does anyone know the release date over here?? also can i order it from the usa site & will the rebate still work?

It looks cool.......and only £190 with rebate

Thanks

Darren

Birdman
11-18-2002, 10:30 PM
The Dell Axim is now posted on the Dell.ca web site but you have to dig pretty deep to find it. The 400mhz version is listed at $609 and there is no mention of a rebate.

yunez
11-18-2002, 10:47 PM
The Dell Axim is now posted on the Dell.ca web site but you have to dig pretty deep to find it. The 400mhz version is listed at $609 and there is no mention of a rebate.
where is this page?

I just ordered the high-end axim over the phone, i was quoted $519 without the cradle (i asked to remove it). With the cradle it was $549. He said the rebate would be available, either on the site or included in the box. It will ship in 14 days, and he guaranteed it would be here by Dec. 16 (when im going out of town)

oyeah free shipping too. Total price after 14.5% taxes is $595.40 minus $80 rebate = CA$515.40

yunez
11-18-2002, 11:56 PM
To clear things up for canadians:

Base price for High end axim:
CA$519

with USB Cradle:
CA$549

with 2 year warranty:
CA$609 (dont know if that includes the cradle)

-$80 rebate form will be posted on the site, or included in the box.
-will ship in 14 days, guaranteed to arrive before Dec 16 (when im leaving town)

sweetpete
11-19-2002, 12:11 AM
I did a search on Axim in the peripherals section and it came up with the $609, but that is with 2 yrs service. I couldn't see one without it and on this page it is not configurable as it is on the US site.

enemy2k2
11-19-2002, 01:07 AM
It's available for order on the Canadian site now, they want $25 shipping and handling. Did anyone who ordered on the phone have to pay shipping?

yunez
11-19-2002, 01:43 AM
It's available for order on the Canadian site now, they want $25 shipping and handling. Did anyone who ordered on the phone have to pay shipping?
i got free shipping over the phone

There are also inconsistencies in price between the website and the phone, its cheaper and more configurable if you call. They might have fixed it now

sweetpete
11-19-2002, 02:32 AM
It's available for order on the Canadian site now, they want $25 shipping and handling. Did anyone who ordered on the phone have to pay shipping?
i got free shipping over the phone

There are also inconsistencies in price between the website and the phone, its cheaper and more configurable if you call. They might have fixed it now

Hmm, it seems pretty configurable. One quick note to those taht want to take advantage of this... Right now you can get the 3yr warranty at no extra cost. When you select it, and update price it doesn't add anything to the cost (2yrs. costs an extra $89). They may try and ding you later, but chances are, you can argue to have it for free. They are doing advance exchange too, so you'll basically never be out of a PPC and it more than makes up for the $25 shipping.

enemy2k2
11-19-2002, 02:35 AM
i got free shipping over the phone

There are also inconsistencies in price between the website and the phone, its cheaper and more configurable if you call. They might have fixed it now

Thanks for the quick reply! I just got off the phone with them after a very long wait, and what the rep (Jim) had said to me was that they're not allowed to sell any today even though today was supposed to be the launch date. I told him that I knew of people who'd already ordered and he said he wouldn't know anything about that. I asked him about free shipping and he said he could definitely do that for me. He then said that he would call me back tomorrow after 1PM eastern time. Hopefully I can get one ordered for a reasonable price tomorrow. :D

BTW, I settled on the 300Mhz configuration. Seeing as how this is my first PPC I figured I don't need the top of the line even though I'm into emulation and such. Besides I hope someone works out an overclocking scheme or something;) As for the smaller ROM I think I'll risk it knowing that there's a chance the next OS may just not fit on it. It will just give me an excuse to buy a better unit in less time. Also if I had bought the 400Mhz unit I would just HAVE to buy a 1GB microdrive to match it, and then would come spare battery etc. Rather than spend on all that I'll just simply go for a 256MB CF card, I saw one going for $145 Canadian at a local generic PC shop. I'm strange, eh? :wink: :D

Merlion
11-19-2002, 04:22 AM
I'm watching CSI Miami right now & they just showed a Dell Axim that belonged to a sniper victim. They're placing it on a table along with other evidence. :) I guess the Axims are already available in TV land. :D

Ed Hansberry
11-19-2002, 04:23 AM
Yup. I saw that. Dell must have planted it weeks ago for the Nov. 18 episode. :D

Rob Alexander
11-19-2002, 04:58 AM
Yeah, well the problem is that most people buy their PDAs in retail outlets like Circuit City, Staples, Office Depot, Best Buy, and CompUSA. If Dell doesn't place "kiosks" in these locales, no one will even know Dell's PDA exists. Good luck with that.

That's exactly what people used to say when Dell first started selling computers directly. 'People buy computers in stores..." they argued. No one could understand how they could expect to have people buy something as expensive as a computer sight-unseen, without sales people and a physical location for service and support. But they did (and don't you just wish you'd bought a few shares of Dell in its IPO). This isn't really all that different. Sure some people won't buy direct, just as some people really wouldn't buy a computer through the mail (no WWW back then), but plenty will. Also don't forget that Dell has a vast marketing machine. I would venture that, for every person who won't that Dell PDAs exist, there will be someone else who didn't know that PDAs exist at all until they see one in a Dell ad. They'll do fine.

Nutzer
11-19-2002, 05:56 AM
Hey, for the people that saw the Dell Axim on TV, how did it look? Does it look as huge as everyone say it was? I checked out the Dell Flash Intro for the Axim like 5 times, so I can somewhat get an idea of how big it is sittting on my hand, and some shots it looks pretty small, and on some, say the girl or sitting on the table being used as mp3 player it looked rather big.
So, How did it look on TV?

yunez
11-19-2002, 06:06 AM
Hmm, it seems pretty configurable. One quick note to those taht want to take advantage of this... Right now you can get the 3yr warranty at no extra cost. When you select it, and update price it doesn't add anything to the cost (2yrs. costs an extra $89). They may try and ding you later, but chances are, you can argue to have it for free. They are doing advance exchange too, so you'll basically never be out of a PPC and it more than makes up for the $25 shipping.
hm that 3-year warranty for free is interesting..anyone get that?

BTW, i say its more configurable over the phone because i was able to get a USB sync cable instead of a Cradle for the high-end axim. They dont give you that option on the site, it saves you CA$30

Also i think the free shipping is a given, you dont need a special request :D
EDIT: hm, ive heard of another person who had to call a few times to get free shipping, otherwise it was $15. That seems to agree with the shipping policy outlined on the website.

ThomasC22
11-19-2002, 07:41 AM
So, How did it look on TV?

Quick Disclaimer: I could be giving you bogus info because I haven't watched it yet, BUT!

The link with Bill Gates further up on the page has his Comdex Speech streamed and I believe he did introduce and show off the Dell Axim in that speech so if you're willing to go through the video you could probably see as good a representation there.

sweetpete
11-19-2002, 08:15 AM
BTW, i say its more configurable over the phone because i was able to get a USB sync cable instead of a Cradle for the high-end axim. They dont give you that option on the site, it saves you CA$30

Also i think the free shipping is a given, you dont need a special request :D
EDIT: hm, ive heard of another person who had to call a few times to get free shipping, otherwise it was $15. That seems to agree with the shipping policy outlined on the website.

Hmmm, you're right about the synch cable. I just checked the 300 mhz version and that one allows you to save the $30 and go for just the USB travel cable and it also has the free 3yr. warranty upgrade.
Actually, I don't think upgrade is the correct word. I'm pretty sure that is a mistake, but a costly one (worth about $150 CDN based on the US site price). Also, the $80 mail-in rebate is on the site too.

Ed Hansberry
11-19-2002, 02:07 PM
Hey, for the people that saw the Dell Axim on TV, how did it look? Does it look as huge as everyone say it was?
Looked fine, but they didn't really use it. Just pulled it off of the body of a corpse.

I bet dell had no idea the Nov 18 episode they requested would be about snipers. :?

pruhawk
11-19-2002, 02:42 PM
:D

According to an ad-email sent to me by Dell, in addition to the $50 rebate Dell will discount the X5 an additional 10% if you order online and add the following discount code:

Enter coupon code 1643920D57BD at checkout.

Online Only! Expires 11/24/02.

Rirath
11-19-2002, 03:23 PM
Enter coupon code 1643920D57BD at checkout.

Online Only! Expires 11/24/02.

What the?! You've gotta be kidding. 8O Unless my math fails me completely, that's like $35 bucks. Hmm... can someone confirm this? I'd almost be willing to cancle my order. Ack.

Kati Compton
11-19-2002, 04:55 PM
Enter coupon code 1643920D57BD at checkout.

Online Only! Expires 11/24/02.

What the?! You've gotta be kidding. 8O Unless my math fails me completely, that's like $35 bucks. Hmm... can someone confirm this? I'd almost be willing to cancle my order. Ack.

Doesn't work when I tried it. :) I think it's for Cameras and Peripherals only, and that Dell isn't counting the PDA as such even though it used to be in that product area on the website.

BigCanoe
11-19-2002, 05:01 PM
Didn't work for me either, said the coupon had already been redeemed.

Kati Compton
11-19-2002, 05:53 PM
I'll repost this info here, but for the longer version it's on the 100 bux is 100 bux thread.

Got the 10% discount by calling up Customer Service and saying that other people had it, and since I'm a Dell customer who bought a desktop system from there, I was upset that I wasn't getting the same deal.

Merlion
11-19-2002, 06:13 PM
Hey, for the people that saw the Dell Axim on TV, how did it look? Does it look as huge as everyone say it was? I checked out the Dell Flash Intro for the Axim like 5 times, so I can somewhat get an idea of how big it is sittting on my hand, and some shots it looks pretty small, and on some, say the girl or sitting on the table being used as mp3 player it looked rather big.
So, How did it look on TV?

The Axim's dimensions are 5.0" x 3.2" x 0.7" compared to the naked iPaq 3800/3900's 5.3" x 3.3" x 0.62". So it's smaller & barely thicker (0.08") than a naked iPaq. :) You can gauge it's size & feel compared to a naked iPaq, & since it's lower half is narrower, & it has rubber grips on its sides, it should feel more comfortable than a naked iPaq 3800/3900.

GoldKey
11-19-2002, 08:11 PM
Been lurking here for quite a while, and finally decided to register and post. I ordered the 400mhz Dell yesterday with the cradle. Hope these aren't dumb questions, but I have not seen them addressed here.

1) On Dell's site, there appears to be two different colors of Axim. One is all metalic with rubber bumpers on the side while the other has the rubber and metalic parts but the front of the unit appears to be a flat charcoal color. I have seen these pics used interchangably for each model.

2) Does it have an IR port? The documentation and the 3D demo don't appear to show one.

3) Does it include Outlook for the desktop PC?

4) If it does have IR, does it come with software to use it as a remote?

BevHoward
11-19-2002, 08:16 PM
FWIW, the _Toshiba_ usb to serial cable is listed at

http://pc-mobile.net/toshiba.htm

I have no other information than what is on the page.

sweetpete
11-19-2002, 08:49 PM
2) Does it have an IR port? The documentation and the 3D demo don't appear to show one.

This was address by Bev Howard, however to quote again from the specs listed on the site:
Standard v1.2 (115 kbps) Infrared Port


3) Does it include Outlook for the desktop PC?

I'm not sure, but isn't that a requirement of all PPC's? I think (someone please correct me if I'm wrong) that Microosft includes that with the license for the PPC. I may be way off base, but I've had copies included with my PPC's in the past.


4) If it does have IR, does it come with software to use it as a remote?
Based on the lack of any mention of this, I doubt it. Most PPC's don't have universal remote software included (recent iPaq's and others are exceptions, but maybe it's a new trend). You can purchase third party remote apps for any PPC.

enemy2k2
11-19-2002, 08:51 PM
1) On Dell's site, there appears to be two different colors of Axim. One is all metalic with rubber bumpers on the side while the other has the rubber and metalic parts but the front of the unit appears to be a flat charcoal color. I have seen these pics used interchangably for each model.

2) Does it have an IR port? The documentation and the 3D demo don't appear to show one.

3) Does it include Outlook for the desktop PC?

4) If it does have IR, does it come with software to use it as a remote?

!. They're both the same colour, only differences are the CPU, ROM, and RAM.

2. Yes, it's specifications list it as having an IR port.
Standard v1.2 (115 kbps) Infrared Port

3. It should have Outlook 2000. All pocket PCs should, but this I wouldn't know for sure...

4. I don't know, but I don't think so...

Merlion
11-19-2002, 08:56 PM
2) Does it have an IR port? The documentation and the 3D demo don't appear to show one.
3) Does it include Outlook for the desktop PC?
4) If it does have IR, does it come with software to use it as a remote?
Yes, it does have an IrDA port, just like every other PPCs. I doubt it has the 'consumer IR' version that the H3900/5400 has, which is more powerful. But even if it does not come with any remote control software, you can get it yourself. There's the www.ultramote.com & the www.pdawin.com/tvremote.html that enable your PPC to act as a universal remote control, & they even have voice-command controls! :)

Oh & yes, like mentioned earlier, PPCs came with Outlook for Windows.

GoldKey
11-19-2002, 08:56 PM
!. They're both the same colour, only differences are the CPU, ROM, and RAM.



Which pictures are correct then, or is it just a lighting issue in the photos?

Thanks

Mobile Mike
11-19-2002, 09:11 PM
As a Dell customer I receive email notifications regarding their sales, here is one I just received:

400 mhz with cradle for $265
300 mhz with synch cable $175

This is after rebate and 10% off coupon.

I am thinking of buying the 300mhz one to hold me over until some new wireless phone editons are released.

Maybe I misread, but did some of you mention you prefered the synch cable over the cradle?

enemy2k2
11-19-2002, 09:32 PM
Which pictures are correct then, or is it just a lighting issue in the photos?

Thanks

That, I have no idea. Though I will be sure to tell you when I get my grubby 'lil hands on one 'em :D

enemy2k2
11-19-2002, 10:19 PM
Have any Canadians tried for the 10% discount yet?

Merlion
11-19-2002, 11:52 PM
!. They're both the same colour, only differences are the CPU, ROM, and RAM.



Which pictures are correct then, or is it just a lighting issue in the photos?

Thanks

I asked this question for ya'll at PocketPCPassion coz the Administrator, Dale Coffing, has the device.
Somebody else answered my question & this is the response:

I have actually seen one at our local Dell Kiosk. The color of the dovice is kind of silverery with charcoal accents. The pictures posted so far really do not do it justice.

The cradle also has a mirrored finish. Very nice looking.


Read the full thing here: http://www.pocketpcpassion.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&postid=107201#post107201

enemy2k2
11-20-2002, 12:26 AM
http://www.cnet.com/video/comdexflat/axim.html

Merlion
11-20-2002, 12:39 AM
Thanks, dude, that's a great video. The Axim looks great! :)

GoldKey
11-20-2002, 12:47 AM
Thanks for the video (it answered my appearance question) and thanks to everyone else who posted answers to my questions.

Creation
11-20-2002, 04:37 AM
Thanks for posting the video!! It actually look kinda good in the video, and I have to admit that the pictures posted everywhere sucks. I took the plunge and ordered the 400 Mhz model with cradle and screen proctectors. I had a 10% off coupon, but had to call in to get it to go through. Hope this ships soon!! 8)

Kati Compton
11-20-2002, 05:33 AM
Thanks for posting the video!! It actually look kinda good in the video, and I have to admit that the pictures posted everywhere sucks. I took the plunge and ordered the 400 Mhz model with cradle and screen proctectors. I had a 10% off coupon, but had to call in to get it to go through. Hope this ships soon!! 8)

Screen protectors? I didn't see that on the site.

Hey PocketPC owners - how important is it that a screen protector be for your particular model? Can you just get them based on screen size? I want to have protectors ready so I don't scratch my Axim!

Creation
11-20-2002, 05:53 AM
It's shown on the page that you can add on stuff, like extra battery, keyboard, memory, etc. It's all the way on the botton for $19 for a dozen. Happy searching!

Underwater Mike
11-20-2002, 03:11 PM
The keyboard is *not* a Targus, annoyingly enough. If it were, I'd order one right now. But... well, it's not. Time will tell if what it has will actually be worthwhile; honestly, I can't believe anyone would possibly top, or even match, the Stowaway. It's an absolutely flawless design.

Maybe it is and it is rebranded to Dell? Have you called them to ask or seen any pictures of the design?

I love my iPAQ Stowaway, but rather than waiting for a Targus-branded keyboard for the Dell, I just ordered the Dell option. If it sucks, I'll send it back. I've never had a problem with returns to Dell...

BruceG
11-21-2002, 09:05 PM
I ordered the 400 MHz Axim with screen protectors and the USB cradle on 11/18/2002. I was told that my ship date would be 12/05/2002 8O . Later that day, I thought I it would be a good idea to get the 2-year warranty, as my Jornada 548 died after 18 months. I found out I could only change my order with the sales rep who had placed it, and I wasn't able to connect with him until Wednesday, 11/20/2002. He had to delete my order and add a new one to put in the 2-year warranty. My new ship date is 12/16/2002 :cry: . I noticed that was an option for a case, but I thought I would try and get one from another vendor. Perhaps Vaja or HandHeldPlanet will have a Dell case by then.