T-Mobile MDA Now Officially Available

[Raphael Salgado]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2006/02/21/mda-now-really-officially-actually-available-from-t-moile/' target='_blank'>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2006/...e-from-t-moile/</a><br /><br /></div>The good sources at Engadget were elated to announce that T-Mobile USA is now selling their branded version of the HTC Wizard 200 as the MDA (the UK version is called the MDA Vario).<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/tmobilemda.jpg" /><br /><br />For those of you who waited out the initial craze of the HTC Wizard from Qtek and i-mate priced over $800 last October, your patience has paid off. While the unbranded, unlocked version from Qtek and i-mate still sell for as low as $599, T-Mobile has the MDA listed on their website for a tempting $349 after a $50 mail-in rebate (a one-year wireless contract is required). Personally, I still like the look of the T-Mobile MDA over the Cingular 8125 (the HTC Wizard 100). But, since the performance and technical specifications are identical, you'll just need to pick the wireless carrier that suits you best. I'm sure <a href="http://kjamming.blogspot.com/">Ed's K-JAMMING Blog</a> will receive yet another influx of new readers with this new release. :wink:

[Mobile Analyst Watch]

Are the Cingular 8125 and the the T-Mobile MDA the same? Isn't the former the Wizard 100 and the latter the Wizard 200? Is there any difference between the two?

I'm trying to decide between these two devices and if you take Cingular's and T-Mobile's networks out of play, is the 8125 or the MDA a better device?

Thanks

[Raphael Salgado]

Welcome to Pocket PC Thoughts, Mobile Analyst Watch!

As I stated in the article, the devices are identical except for their physical appearance. To me, the HTC Wizard 100 (Cingular 8125) really looks like a prototype or first-generation device, while the HTC Wizard 200 (T-Mobile MDA/MDA Vario, i-mate K-JAM, Qtek 9100, etc.) has a more curvy and stylish form factor.

It's been said on various forums that most of the difference lies in the customized Extended ROMs, as well as some tweaks in the OS ROM. Though its legality is questionable, they have been able to interchange the ROMs and its contents as they saw fit.

I haven't had a chance to touch an 8125, so I don't know if it's any more or less sturdy than the MDA. But, what I do know about the HTC Wizard 200 is that the "loose stylus syndrome" happened over time to many owners, including myself.

[Mobile Analyst Watch]

Thanks. I'm on Cingular now and was wondering if it was better to just get the 8125 or buy the MDA and unlock it.

[huangzhinong]

I read somewhere that the battery life of HTC wizard 100 is even better than treo 650, although the capacity is only 1250mah. Will TMOBILE MDA has the same battery life?

[quan]

I am thinking about getting one but can some experts tell me how the phone functionality performed. How is the reception, voice quality, speakers phone and most of all any types of major ROM defects that caused ones to constantly find a work around solution(s)? Much appreciate your advice.

[Flame]

I ordered the MDA from T-Mobile's website and UPS delivered it today. I will keep you posted on the performance.

[lfc]

So far - 1 day - love the MDA w/regards to it's wireless functionality and slimmer profile (compared to my old Pocket PC). However, it will not sync Outlook with MS ActiveSync 4.1 no matter what hoops I jump through. The device is never detected and you never get the wizard to establish the initial partnership.

Spoke with rep at TMobile's PDA support - they say they are experiencing many issues with this device and ActiveSync. He instructed me to check Microsoft's website often for a patch to take care of the issue - they are actively working to resolve it.

Hope this is true. Wondering if anyone else is experiencing this or has any info?

:?

[Raphael Salgado]

ActiveSync 4.1 with USB is giving a lot of people issues. I suggest using syncing over Bluetooth, as Bluetooth USB dongles are incredibly cheap nowadays.

[lfc]

Bluetooth features are new to me, beyond using the wireless headset. What would I need to buy and how would I get started syncing via Bluetooth?

Waiting on ActiveSync issues to resolve doesn't seem like it will be productive anytime soon. . .

[Raphael Salgado]

Regarding SIM-locked Wizards, you can use this at your own risk...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/viewtopic.php?t=33796

As for Bluetooth, the dongle will install adapters (and possibly software, or it may have native XP SP2 support). It basically will be a virtual COM port over Bluetooth, and you can sync via that COM port instead of the USB port.

[patato]

My long wait has not been in vain! Now I can finally get one!
In my opinion, the 8125 looks more sleek 8). I like edges.
I don't like Cingular though, their network is unreliable where I live. I like T-Mob's packages much better than Cingular's.
Kinda of OT, but has anyone tried the overclocker for the Wizard?

[heyday]

Well after 2 1/2 years my HP 6315 decided to wig out..... just in time for this new device..... good thing I got the insurance..... it is only costing me $110. :-) (And no I didn't plan it this way... I would have been happy to get another 6315 but they dont' make them.... the insurance is "forcing" me to get this new one.)

But then I spend $99 on a 2gb minSD card and another $150 on accesories. I hope I didn't goof. I bought a bunch of accesories for the HPC Wizard.....

Found a site that even sells a nice looking cradle for it.....

heyday

[deemota]

guys, the problem with AS 4.1 is that your firewall blocks it. turn it off and it works perfectly. i'm actually posting this from my MDA.

[Mobile Analyst Watch]

Well after 2 1/2 years my HP 6315 decided to wig out..... just in time for this new device..... good thing I got the insurance..... it is only costing me $110. :-) (And no I didn't plan it this way... I would have been happy to get another 6315 but they dont' make them.... the insurance is "forcing" me to get this new one.)

But then I spend $99 on a 2gb minSD card and another $150 on accesories. I hope I didn't goof. I bought a bunch of accesories for the HPC Wizard.....

Found a site that even sells a nice looking cradle for it.....

heyday

It's always the accessories and software that break the bank, but that part of the fun when getting a new device too :-)

[GadgetGirl]

Woo, I picked up my MDA today! I tried briefly this afternoon to tether it to my laptop to use it as an EDGE/GPRS modem... no luck. So I popped my sim back into my T610 and used that for my modem. Anyone have any tricks that I need to know to use the MDA as a bluetooth modem?

The phone is pretty sweet so far.

[eustts]

Can someone confirm if the MDA has Java on it...

reading through howard forums, it appears that the SDA has Java, and the MDA does not.

Alot of people are complaining aboout not being able to use Google Local.

The K-jam and the Qtek devices do have Java installed.


www.google.com/glm

[GadgetGirl]

Just tried it using the "generic" phone on google local. The downloaded JAD files are not associated on the MDA, so there's a good chance there's no Java on here.

[MojaveMan]

Howdy All!

After a day of using my MDA I can answer some questions. As far as I can tell MDA does not have Java installed so no installing Google Local for Mobiles. Using the Opera web browser, though, I was able to utilize Google Maps functions online. They don't zoom very well, though - I recommend configuring Opera not to "Shrink To Fit" and make Zoom 100% when viewing pages with a Google Map.

I, too, had problems synching to the version of Outlook (2002) provided on the install disk. I ended up reinstalling Outlook, going to ActiveSync and clicked on File-> Delete Mobile Device. I then unplugged an replugged in the phone and after a few seconds ActiveSync rediscovered the device and started synching my Contacts from Outlook. Firewall wasn't an issue for me - Kerio Personal Firewall detected the device when plugged in and asked if I wanted to add it to my Trusted Zone. I assume this spared me that hassle. Doing something similar with your firewall software might help if it's blocking.

I love this phone so far! Only real pet peeve is the hoops required to stop non-essential programs. I'm trying out Task Manager type apps now, and although they all seem to work fine they don't integrate well with the MDA (changing the color of the task bar, not adjusting when going from Portrait to Landscape mode, etc....little things only.)

Haven't played around with the camera/video options yet, but taking a picture of a co-worker and adding that pic to his contact listing took mere seconds....nice.

Having trouble authenticating Microsoft Reader - even after installing their version that is supposed to fix this problem. Otherwise, I'm looking for a good overall eBook reader - something that can read text and HTML files besides their own formats.

Did I just write all that?!? :-) I'll add more as my experience grows.

Cheers...

[Jeff Song]

I have google local running on my 8125 and it works great.

In order for it to work, choose Audiovox then smt5600 and download that version. Installs and works great. I just used it today for directions to my company dinner location, and it was pretty good :)

[yardcat]

Its been a long wait for me too! Ordered one tonight.
I really, really hope T-mo is going to allow us to use the MDA as a modem. A strategy dear to my heart is to have a two component system with a PDA tethered to the MDA. Please advise.

yardcat

[JonnoB]

I have had a Qtek 9100 on T-Mobile since last year (October, I think). It is great and I highly recommend the Wizard. As previously mentioned, you can swap out ROMs at your leisure. I have not had a problem using the 2.8 ROM on my Qtek with T-Mobile with the AKU 2.0 update. I get stereo Bluetooth and push email. It has been a wonderful device despite a few minor annoyances. Anyone considering getting this device, it has been the best converged device I have ever known and with each ROM update, it gets even better.

Also, I originally had problems with the firewall as well and AS. Disable the firewall and all will work well. I now sync my contacts, email, tasks, calendar, etc through Exchange 2003. On the rare occasion I actually need to sync up directly, I do it via Bluetooth usually.

[alese]

Howdy All!

I love this phone so far! Only real pet peeve is the hoops required to stop non-essential programs. I'm trying out Task Manager type apps now, and although they all seem to work fine they don't integrate well with the MDA (changing the color of the task bar, not adjusting when going from Portrait to Landscape mode, etc....little things only.)



I'm using Magic Button on mine. It is lightweight works well, no problems with switching orientations, and it's free...

[windmilltilting]

The store only had two in stock that afternoon :D I have been very pleased so far. I did not get the data plan, but I do have t-zones. I actually have it syncing by usb. Everything went over just fine. I have already spent a boatload of money on accessories and software upgrades to WM5. The phone just plain works. The PPC just plain works. I am seriously considering ditching my ipaq2750 once I get all my apps onto the MDA. I use GPS a lot, and my program does not support WM5. That is going to be the big issue. I am also wondering if I want to give up all that Ipaq screen real estate completely.

I only have two issues so far. Hopefully someone can help with one of them.

1. Downloading ringtones.
I can't download a ringtone without the $30 data plan. I was mad at first, but I would rather light a candle than curse the darkness. The MDA can use ANY mp3 file as a ringtone. Bwaaahahahaha! Got a free mp3 editor, cut out the part of the song I wanted....works well.

2. Bluetooth Activesync in 4.1
Can't seem to make it happen. I need this for cable economy. I don't think it is MDA specific because I can't get the Ipaq to sync either. Both devices are working with usb however. I have tried turning off both windows firewall, and Nortons. I need help with this one.

Other than that, I am tickled to death. I have been waiting years for this device. I BORROWED a phone from my brother for the past six months because I didn't want to buy what Tmobile offered, and I couldn't justify $600+ for an unlocked htc. Other than the activesync, I can't find anything that doesn't work well, and I have been very pleased with the build and user interface as well. Oh, I have a Bluespoon AX2, and it works flawlessly.

[GadgetGirl]

Its been a long wait for me too! Ordered one tonight.
I really, really hope T-mo is going to allow us to use the MDA as a modem. A strategy dear to my heart is to have a two component system with a PDA tethered to the MDA. Please advise.

yardcat

After playing with the MDA a bit more after work last night, I was able to tether it to my laptop via Bluetooth. yay! The only odd thing is that I can't seem to make it tether to the connection I set up using the internet3.voicestream.com APN, only the default wap.voicestream.com APN. Both those connections work fine from within the MDA, but only the wap one lets me tether to my laptop. It shouldn't matter though, so I don't care so much.

PDA to MDA tethering is also supposed to be pretty easy to set up (haven't tried this).

[dstrauss]

...

As I stated in the article, the devices are identical except for their physical appearance. To me, the HTC Wizard 100 (Cingular 8125) really looks like a prototype or first-generation device, while the HTC Wizard 200 (T-Mobile MDA/MDA Vario, i-mate K-JAM, Qtek 9100, etc.) has a more curvy and stylish form factor.
...

Although I agree the Wiz200 design looks sleeker and has a better "cool" factor, the keyboard on the Wiz100 design sold me. It is much better (for me) than the little chiclet keys on the Wiz200 and Treo phones.

[gmusser]

Does the MDA have the Advanced Audio BT profile?
George

[Janak Parekh]

Does the MDA have the Advanced Audio BT profile?
Probably not yet. Microsoft's Bluetooth stack added A2DP support with AKU2, and I don't think the T-Mobile MDA ships with it. A future ROM update will hopefully add it.

After playing with the MDA a bit more after work last night, I was able to tether it to my laptop via Bluetooth. yay! The only odd thing is that I can't seem to make it tether to the connection I set up using the internet3.voicestream.com APN, only the default wap.voicestream.com APN. Both those connections work fine from within the MDA, but only the wap one lets me tether to my laptop. It shouldn't matter though, so I don't care so much.
That's bizarre. I assume you used internet3 with your previous phone? Have you tried internet2? The only problem with using the wap APN is that it may not give you access to everything; historically, T-Mobile has limited which ports can be accessed through the wap APN.

--janak

[MojaveMan]

Hey, according to T-Mobile's knowledge base MDA does have a JVM installed.

JAVA virtual machine (J2ME, CLDC1.1, MIDP 2.0)

from: http://support.t-mobile.com/knowbase/root/public/tm22892.htm

This is my first Windows-based PDA so others could probably speak to the details better than I can.

[quan]

Ok y'all have described the PDA functionalities are working with a few minor inconvienences. How about the phone functionalities. Are you getting all the 'bars' signal strength and voice clarity? Thanks

[MojaveMan]

Ok y'all have described the PDA functionalities are working with a few minor inconvienences. How about the phone functionalities. Are you getting all the 'bars' signal strength and voice clarity? Thanks
That's the first thing I checked, actually. Many reviews I read before picking it up said the phone was so-so. I must not be very picky, though, because I get the same good signal I did with my old T-Mobile phone. Without a headset the only noticable difference I experience is that the volume control is on the screen now (didn't realize how often I adjusted volume until I didn't have hard buttons to press.) But sound is fine. Heck, I just got off the phone with a friend now and I had to turn it down.

It did take me a bit to discover there is a seperate volume control for in-call volume (only configurable while you're on a call.) Perhaps the folks reporting poor sound quality haven't found that yet?

I don't mind tapping the screen to dial a number, although I'll probably get a screen protector. I have voice command setup for my most often called contacts...no problems so far.

[JonnoB]

I live fairly close to a cell tower so my experiences have always been good with T-Mobile. overall, I would say that the signal is stronger than what I had with my previous phone, a SE T610.

[Jason Lee]

Without a headset the only noticable difference I experience is that the volume control is on the screen now (didn't realize how often I adjusted volume until I didn't have hard buttons to press.)

There is a slider on the top left side just above the speaker and below the comm manager button. This is the volume control. It will change the system volume when you are not in a call and will change the earpiece volume when you are in a call. :)

[MojaveMan]

Heh.....WHOOPS! :oops:

There is a slider on the top left side just above the speaker and below the comm manager button. This is the volume control. It will change the system volume when you are not in a call and will change the earpiece volume when you are in a call. :)

[heyday]

Well, I ordered directly from T-mobile the day they came available....now they are telling me they are back-ordered and have no idea when they will be available....... I ordered mine over the phone with customer service.

not goood.

heyday

[yardcat]

I ordered mine over the phone yesterday 2/22/06 and it HAS been shipped form dallas/ft worth area as I confirmed from the UPS tracking number. So maybe they are only out of stock in certain regions.

yardcat

[heyday]

I ordered mine over the phone yesterday 2/22/06 and it HAS been shipped form dallas/ft worth area as I confirmed from the UPS tracking number. So maybe they are only out of stock in certain regions.

yardcat

Did you order one at the $399 price? I didn't want to do a new contract and just ordered one direct which was like $479 ....

I wonder if people who did a new contract are getting them first....

heyday

[yardcat]

Yes, mine was a new 1 year contract and I paid $399 and will be able to send in for $50 rebate later. Too bad you are having to wait.

Another question that I have was why they charged me tax of like $25+ because whenever I buy anything over the internet I don't normally get charged for tax? I'm not in one of those internet taxable states. Am in Arizona.

yardcat

[deemota]

Yes, mine was a new 1 year contract and I paid $399 and will be able to send in for $50 rebate later. Too bad you are having to wait.

Another question that I have was why they charged me tax of like $25+ because whenever I buy anything over the internet I don't normally get charged for tax? I'm not in one of those internet taxable states. Am in Arizona.

yardcat

You do get charged tax if the company you buy from has a store in that state. Obviously, T-Mobile is in Arizona. Hence, the charge.

[GadgetGirl]

That's bizarre. I assume you used internet3 with your previous phone? Have you tried internet2? The only problem with using the wap APN is that it may not give you access to everything; historically, T-Mobile has limited which ports can be accessed through the wap APN.

--janak

Yeah, the internet3.voicestream.com one works fine when I use my sim in my T610, and it works fine when I use it within the mda. I'll try again to tether it, maybe it was just being fussy.

[JonnoB]

using the wizard with t-mobile, I had always used the vpn service (internet3.voicestream.com)

to use mms however, you must use wap.voicestream.com. so, I either get vpn access when needed or I can send mms but not both. has someone been able to get around this limitation ?

[Ed Hansberry]

using the wizard with t-mobile, I had always used the vpn service (internet3.voicestream.com)

to use mms however, you must use wap.voicestream.com. so, I either get vpn access when needed or I can send mms but not both. has someone been able to get around this limitation ?

Use wap.voicestream.com. It supports VPN. Only internet2.voicestream.com blocks VPN connections.

[heyday]

After being told by customer service that I wouldn't get my MDA shipped out till next week.... the UPS man left me a surprise package at about 4:30pm today.... sweet.

So far I'm very impressed. I can't believe I've been using my HP 6315 for 2 1/2 years.....and I loved it..... now I think it is a piece of junk.... I got so used to it I guess and just leaned to get along with the issues it had.

Funny thing though..... it took me about 30 minutes to find the stylus.... for a while I was thinking that it didn't come with one because of the keyboard..... then I find it on the bottom of the device..... douhhh..... That is one thing I don't like so far....

When I'm driving in my car I'm so used to pulling out the stylus when I have my phone docked..... since it is on the bottom I can't really do that now..... I probably shouldn't be doing it as I drive anyways...

And yes I'm haveing Activesync problems...... It seemed like ti syced my contacts but not my calendar and to-do's...... I haven't messed with it though so I'll figure it out this weekend....

heyday

[windmilltilting]

Mojaveman, I had the same problem. Went through the convoluted MS support, and got an email about this thread.

Suggest 1: you can contact the Support for the special OEMinfo.xml file for your Pocket PC.


Suggest 2: The thread regarding this topic on the MS Reader newsgroup is monitored by Christine, a member of the MS Reader Product Team. You can also contact Christine directly for special OEMinfo.xml file for your Pocket PC.

http://www.microsoft.com/communities/newsgroups/en-us/default.aspx?dg=microsoft.public.reader&amp;tid=f7e0eaa7-9065-49d4-87d0-011d5f476555&amp;cat=en_US_1e2f14d7-4b1e-4241-b495-f161d6c93def&amp;lang=en&amp;cr=US&amp;p=1

Christine' Email address: [email protected]

That was the meat of the reply. I emailed the nice lady, and she sent me a file OEMinfo.xls somesuch. I copied it into my windows directory on the device, soft reset, and activated. You gotta install the ACTIVATION on the device. Reader CAN be on a storage card.

I'm still waiting for help with Bluetooth sync. Haven't found anything yet.

My phone works great for voice and reception.

[MojaveMan]

windmilltilting: Thanks, I went ahead and emailed Christine.

I've been reading the posts referencing different GPRS servers (i.e., internet3.voicestream.com.) I've searched around a bit (Google and this forum) and couldn't find much information on them.

Aside from what's already been mentioned, would someone mind giving us new folk a quick overview of each? WAP is a no-brainer, but any major difference between internet2 and internet3? Any other useful servers for US T-Mobile customers?

Short explanation, links, whatever you can provide I'd appreciate.

[deemota]

Howardforums.com is your source for any info u need for cell phone information.

[maikii]

Howdy All!

I love this phone so far! Only real pet peeve is the hoops required to stop non-essential programs. I'm trying out Task Manager type apps now, and although they all seem to work fine they don't integrate well with the MDA (changing the color of the task bar, not adjusting when going from Portrait to Landscape mode, etc....little things only.)



I'm using Magic Button on mine. It is lightweight works well, no problems with switching orientations, and it's free...

On my IPAQ 2210 (WM2003) I have used Wisbar, a great freeware task manager for the PPC. I don't know if it works in WM2005 though.

(They also have a version that is not free, Wisbar Advance. I once tried the demo of that, and didn't like it as much as the freeware plain Wisbar.

[heyday]

I got a 2 GB minSD card for my MDA.... I think it is defective. The MDA would not read it, nor would 4 other card readers that I tried.

I emailed the manufature... Adata ... and they said it sounds like it is defective but alos to check to see if the device supports a 2 GB card.

Can anyone confirm that it will support a 2GB minSD

Also can anyone recomend a good message board dedicated to the T-mobile MDA?

heyday

[deemota]

Also can anyone recomend a good message board dedicated to the T-mobile MDA?

heyday

Look at my post above.....

[lfc]

After much hair-pulling, got real help from HTC after being connected by T-Mobile's PDA dept. For some odd reason, my connection to the MDA was not loading with settings checked for TCP/IP. In fact, the properties for the connection were all blank. A quick trip to Network Connections, right click for properties, and checking the boxes on the initial tab were all it took to enable ActiveSync. Joy!

FYI - have noticed when I hook up my Mobiblue cube music player to the USB in between syncs, I have to load the settings again when I plug in the MDA.

Anyway, all is well and love love love the device. I recommend using SPB Pocket Plus for it's features like really closing apps and such. It's a great little add-on for minimal cost.

:D

[maikii]

Can anyone confirm that it will support a 2GB minSD

Also can anyone recomend a good message board dedicated to the T-mobile MDA?

heyday

I can't confirm it, because I don't yet have either. (I'm thinking of getting an MDA though, and a 2GB card to go with it.) My guess is that it should work. I don't know why it would have a limitation on the card capacity. I think I have read of some who have successfully used that size card.

Since the card also doesn't work in card readers, I think it is pretty clear it is a bad card. Tell them there is no limitation, return the card.

Sandisk has a 2GB minisd card, that is selling for around $80. Only problem, not available yet, but retailers are taking pre-orders. I think it will be available any day now. Amazon has it for that price ($78.99 or so), with free shipping. Not in stock yet as of today though.

I don't know of a message board dedicated only to T-Mobile MDA. I have seen one (I forget where) dedicated to HTC Wizard. That is the original name of the device, sold under different brand names, with different branded ROMs, etc.

There are a lot of posts on the MDA at Howardforums T-Mobile board.

[Phoneboy101]

Isn't the MDA EDGE capable? Does EDGE connection setup differ from GPRS connection setup? I'm using the internet3... APN on GPRS now, (I need VPN passthrough). Do I use the same one to use EDGE? T-Mobile tells me they offer EDGE in our area.

What kind of speeds is everyone getting using EDGE? Also, could I pair the MDA with a laptop to use it as an EDGE modem? I would jump to get one right now if that's the case.

[Phoneboy101]

p.s. The conversion of an avid lifetime Palm user (me) to Pocket PC is at stake.

[mashtim]

the MDA is definitely EDGE-capable. My Battery Bar Network Monitor is showing that I am getting 72.2 Kb as I post this from my MDA. My 6315 barely got any reception from this seat, while the MDA has 3 bars.

Also, I have read reviews where the MDA was used as a laptop modem. I cannot verify this personally (until maybe tonight or tomorrow, at least!).

The MDA also works nicely with BMW Bluetooth Car Adapters, if anyone is interested.

[skjohn8]

Hi All,

Does anyone know if the MDA will still fit into the belt case provided from T-Mobile USA when it is inside this case, or will it be too tight?

http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/media/users/24842/pd2196pc2.jpg

Thanks!

[advantagex]

Isn't the MDA EDGE capable? Does EDGE connection setup differ from GPRS connection setup? I'm using the internet3... APN on GPRS now, (I need VPN passthrough). Do I use the same one to use EDGE? T-Mobile tells me they offer EDGE in our area.

What kind of speeds is everyone getting using EDGE? Also, could I pair the MDA with a laptop to use it as an EDGE modem? I would jump to get one right now if that's the case.

The MDA is supposed to run as a modem for laptos. There should be options to choose such a feature in the connections area. I have had people tell me that they are getting speeds up to 212kbs downloading off of the EDGE network (using other devices as well as the MDA)

[MojaveMan]

I don't think it'll fit - it's a pretty tight fit by itself. That's the first time I've seen your case, though....just what I need. Where did you get that? Can I buy that online (and can you provide a link, name, etc.?)

Thanks in turn!

Hi All,

Does anyone know if the MDA will still fit into the belt case provided from T-Mobile USA when it is inside this case, or will it be too tight?

http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/media/users/24842/pd2196pc2.jpg

Thanks!

[mashtim]

There is a utility called Modem Link on the MDA. I just haven't tried it out yet.

LOVING the 1MB download speed I'm getting while the girlie is trying on clothes at the department store!

[skjohn8]

You know, I think I saw it first on Raphael's site a while back (Thanks Raphael!) - it's at www.pdair.com, and just navigate to the products based on device.

[quote="MojaveMan"]I don't think it'll fit - it's a pretty tight fit by itself. That's the first time I've seen your case, though....just what I need. Where did you get that? Can I buy that online (and can you provide a link, name, etc.?)

Thanks in turn!
\quote]

[gmusser]

Can I sync the MDA with AS 3.7.1 or 3.8? If so, which USB driver should I use? I'm asking because AS 4.1 doesn't run under Win98, which is all I've got (being primarily a Mac user).
George

[Phoneboy101]

I picked up the MDA yesterday. I have only synched my PIM info, but haven't loadede any other programs. Can anyone tell me:
- Why does it take over two minutes to reboot after a soft reset? Is this normal?
- After a soft reset (with no programs loaded) it takes 47 seconds to open my tasks program. It even takes nearly that long to re-open if Tasks is still running in memory. Can this be helped?!!
- This thing will nearly freeze up if I get two or three of the native apps going (inbox, tasks, caledar, whatever.) When I open/close the keyboard, it takes more than a minute for the screen to change orientation, ususally displaying random bits of the screen at each orientation during the process.

(In case it's relevant, I have 25 MB free in storage and 19 MB free in Program memory.)

Please tell me that this is not what Windows Mobile is about! The device is so sexy and should be a powerhouse, but so far it has been pathetic. I don't want to return it. Please help!

[Janak Parekh]

Can I sync the MDA with AS 3.7.1 or 3.8? If so, which USB driver should I use? I'm asking because AS 4.1 doesn't run under Win98, which is all I've got (being primarily a Mac user).
Nope, you need AS 4.x. You're pretty much out of options at this point except to use the MDA in a non-docked mode (or to borrow the use of a friend's computer). Hopefully the Missing Sync folks will release a new version soon.

--janak

[Phoneboy101]

Another question. Why, when I'm connected using wi-fi, is browsing so slow? It's even slower than when I'm connected using EDGE. My Palm TX and old Clie UX-50 just fly from site to site when using wi-fi.

I have an old Compaq 3955 that I use as backup PDA. It's loaded with all the same PIM data as my MDA, but it performs much much faster, and rarely freezes or slows down like the MDA.

Again, I wish this MDA would work. I even performed a hard reset and interrupted the T-Mobile software cusomization, but it didn't help. Does anyone have any advice? Any other MDA owners have similar experiences?

[Ed Hansberry]

Can anyone tell me:
- Why does it take over two minutes to reboot after a soft reset? Is this normal?yes. it takes longersto read user data out of flash rom (registry for example] than ram of the WM2003 days. that said, I reset far less frequently than I did with 2003.
- After a soft reset (with no programs loaded) it takes 47 seconds to open my tasks program. It even takes nearly that long to re-open if Tasks is still running in memory. Can this be helped?!!
- This thing will nearly freeze up if I get two or three of the native apps going (inbox, tasks, caledar, whatever.) When I open/close the keyboard, it takes more than a minute for the screen to change orientation, ususally displaying random bits of the screen at each orientation during the process. that is NOT normal. how many tasks do you have? I have 120yor so and tasks opens up pretty fast.

(In case it's relevant, I have 25 MB free in storage and 19 MB free in Program memory.)

Please tell me that this is not what Windows Mobile is about! The device is so sexy and should be a powerhouse, but so far it has been pathetic. I don't want to return it. Please help!

my experience is on the K-jam, which is the twin of the MDA. Screen rotation got way faster after AKU2 was released, but even before, it wasn't slow like you describe. makes me wonder what T-mobile has loaded on the MDA out of the box. have you tried changing the theme to the one from MS and not T-mob? that could impact changes in orientation.

[Phoneboy101]

Thanks Ed. Can you tell me more about AKU2?

The theme change has no effect on the speed of the device. :(

I have thousands of tasks stored, which seems to be the problem. I have the same number of entries on my old iPaq (same database), and it doesn't slow it down. Having used Palm since the first Pilot, I keep all of my accomplished tasks. It makes a great searchable database of interactions and other daily happenings that I often refer back to. If I have to, I can transfer all of the older items into a Word file or something, but it is a definate drawback. How can Palm OS, and my 2003 PPC be able to handle such a large task database, but this MDA can't?

What can you tell me about the speed of web browsing with wi-fi on your K-Jam? On my DSL connection, its sluggishness blows me away.

[Ed Hansberry]

Thanks Ed. Can you tell me more about AKU2?

The theme change has no effect on the speed of the device. :(

I have thousands of tasks stored, which seems to be the problem. I have the same number of entries on my old iPaq (same database), and it doesn't slow it down. Having used Palm since the first Pilot, I keep all of my accomplished tasks. It makes a great searchable database of interactions and other daily happenings that I often refer back to. If I have to, I can transfer all of the older items into a Word file or something, but it is a definate drawback. How can Palm OS, and my 2003 PPC be able to handle such a large task database, but this MDA can't?
You aren't comparing apples to apples. Try loading your thousands of tasks on a new PalmOS device that also stores data in flash ROM and not RAM. I would be very surprised if it could handle t as fast as the old RAM based devices.

AKU2 is just a series of patches and enhancements, but more importantly, the device maker has also had time to tweak their video drivers and the like so performance boosts, however slight, are usually included when you flash the ROM with AKU2. No guarantees though.

What can you tell me about the speed of web browsing with wi-fi on your K-Jam? On my DSL connection, its sluggishness blows me away.
I haven't noticed it being any more sluggish than my previous devices.

[Phoneboy101]

You aren't comparing apples to apples. Try loading your thousands of tasks on a new PalmOS device that also stores data in flash ROM and not RAM. I would be very surprised if it could handle t as fast as the old RAM based devices.


Actually I am currently using a TX, which is non-volatile flash based, and there is absolutely no lag in working with my large tasks (or any other) database. I think newer devices should work better than (if not as well as) legacy devices, regardless of the internal memory type or architecture. Sure, the TX has a faster processor, but not the Clie or iPaq.

(Re-cap: Clie UX-50, upgraded to TX, with iPaq 3955 as "hobby" and backup. All perform EVERY PDA task much faster than the MDA, with the same PIM database. Sluggishness with Tasks is the biggest difference. Wi-fi browsing on those equipped is many times fater than the MDA.)

It makes me very sad. I'll search the forums for more on AKU2. Do you have any quick links to help me with that?

[subterFUSE]

The MDA also works nicely with BMW Bluetooth Car Adapters, if anyone is interested.


Incorrect.

I just returned from the T-Mobile store, where the sales associate and I paired his MDA with my BMW 545i with bluetooth.

The MDA paired successfully, but would NOT function. It simply would not connect with the car.

There is nothing wrong with the car, because I can use my Moto RAZR perfectly.

[JonnoB]

The MDA also works nicely with BMW Bluetooth Car Adapters, if anyone is interested.


Incorrect.

I just returned from the T-Mobile store, where the sales associate and I paired his MDA with my BMW 545i with bluetooth.

The MDA paired successfully, but would NOT function. It simply would not connect with the car.

There is nothing wrong with the car, because I can use my Moto RAZR perfectly.

Works fine with mine, a QTek 9100 (HTC Wizard variant) with 2.17 ROM update.

[subterFUSE]

The MDA also works nicely with BMW Bluetooth Car Adapters, if anyone is interested.


Incorrect.

I just returned from the T-Mobile store, where the sales associate and I paired his MDA with my BMW 545i with bluetooth.

The MDA paired successfully, but would NOT function. It simply would not connect with the car.

There is nothing wrong with the car, because I can use my Moto RAZR perfectly.

Works fine with mine, a QTek 9100 (HTC Wizard variant) with 2.17 ROM update.


What then do you think is the problem? I paired the device correctly and it registered in the idrive.... but it would not connect to the Communication Menu. The phonebook would not transfer, nor could the car control the phone.

It simply said: "Please Activate Phone"




Perhaps your device is just different, even though it is a "variant"?

Also.... which BMW do you have? I've got a 2005 545i so my Bluetooth works through the iDrive. Do you have the iDrive in your car? If not, then this could be the problem.

[JonnoB]

Perhaps your device is just different, even though it is a "variant"?

A big difference is I am using the newer ROM (not yet released by T-Mobile). If you want, you can unlock the MDA and flash it with the newer firmware. I have used the one with stereo bluetooth, but there are no car stereo adaptors with A2DP and AVRCP :cry:

[subterFUSE]

I see.


Well, then... I guess I will just wait a bit longer.


In all honesty, I would rather have the Motorola Q. The problem is... it is going to be on Verizon first, and therefore won't offer a GSM model right away... so it can't be unlocked and used with T-Mobile (my provider).