Tech Question: Electronic Journals
#26
Senior Member
I'm not sure whether to revive this thread or the other one on PDAs and PocketMail, but... here goes with a revival.
I have considered all my options and being cheap and mean at the best of times, I've decided to opt for a PocketMail device and a 12-month contract.
Reasons:
1. The total cost of delivery for the PocketMail and the 12-month subscription was only around AUD$290. Delivery ~AUD$10; Pocketmail hardware ~AUD$129; 12-month email subscription ~AUD$149.
2. I checked out the Palm and iPaq stuff. I think I could have gone overboard with the Tungsten T5 but I think that was around AUD$650 (even on eBay). Impressive. But really, what was I going to use it for? Journals? Yep, overboard. Plus there is an offer on at the moment for a keyboard, worth AUD$99... but it's messy coz you've got to claim it like a cashback. And it DOES look and feel fragile (I checked it out at a shop).
3. The Pocketmail provides email access with mobile or landline phone anywhere in Australia (mobile maybe not, but landline wherever there's a booth or pub phone). Oh, sorry. Anywhere in Australia AND North America. I have a pay-as-you-go mobile that's still going strong after 4-1/2 years (!!!!). It's not viable in North America, but so what? Really, what else do I need?
4. Unless I could access a modem coupler, I couldn't have that sort of "anywhere" access and versatility UNLESS I got the Pocketmail cradle for Palm devices, which just adds to the cost -- I'd have to get the Palm device to fit!
5. The software structure is simple as chips. You could say it's 1980s style. Suits me. I grew up with it (I was doing remote data transfer for publications.. long before... well, before the gurus got on to it and created the internet), and acoustic couplings and stuff like that. And best of all, it doesn't have MS emblazoned anywhere on it.
6. The Palm and iPaq stuff had "Word and Excel" somewhere. I don't need them when I'm touring. I've had enough of them at work. Word in particular has made me, as a former journalist, lazy and slapdash. It will be good therapy to compose and write at night in the wilderness without Mr Gates looking over my shoulder and giving me constant advice!! Note: The screen is backlit.
7. I bought the device really to keep in contact with people who are really dear to me. It is not meant to create webpages. Webpages I can create from source code in Notepad and Internet Explore (argggghhh) at any cafe or library. I can write the text, including the code, outline the design on paper and translate in next to no time in the cafe or library.
8. PocketMail doesn't on-pass hotmail emails, currently my main form of personal email contact. So what? The ISP I end up deciding to use for a webpage will include a POP3 email anyway, and THAT can be handled for PocketMail onpassing.
9. The PocketMail device is compact, comes in at 500 grams, has a reasonable keyboard four a touch-typist (I presume, but I'll know when it arrives).
10. It RUNS ON TWO AA BATTERIES. Holy moly -- I can get two 1000mA rechargeable AAs and run it forever!!! And I am looking at building a solar-power battery charger.
11. Its light weight is a real attraction -- small and light enough to go in the handlebar bag. I resisted the urge to "upsize" with leather or waterproof satchels and batteries with a fast charger because I am cheap and mean. A small AUD$5.00 drybag will take care of the wet, and I don't need to ponse around with leather.
12. PDAs have varying levels of power consumption and aren't powered by AA batteries, but by... what? I didn't even bother to find out. Colour screens consume a lot of power, too. They do have heaps of memory (but you pay also for additional memory). You can swap camera cards with some. I don't have a digital camera yet, and I will take this into account. I figure that my ISP or even hotmail and PocketMail can take care of the picture files I create as well.
13. I can't handle attachments on the PocketMail. So what? It does notify if there is an attachment on any particular email; therefore I know what to look out for at the next cafe/library stop.
14. The screen is pretty small, and has a limited number of lines to create and edit. Oddly, thinking about what I am doing *right* now (on the BF message box), it actually has more lines of text!!! Cool.
15. It's cheap. Did I mention that before?
I sourced information about the effectiveness of this device from Jamie's site, but also before that I kept track of his experiences with crazyguy's site. The selection wasn't made on a whim today or last week. I have been investigating this for around 18 months (in fact, since I went to Europe for PBP in 2003). But the discussion here sort of prompted some action and closer inspection of options in various shops. Budget was a prime consideration.
I'll keep in touch with how things progress, although that depends on where I am at any particular time!!!
I have considered all my options and being cheap and mean at the best of times, I've decided to opt for a PocketMail device and a 12-month contract.
Reasons:
1. The total cost of delivery for the PocketMail and the 12-month subscription was only around AUD$290. Delivery ~AUD$10; Pocketmail hardware ~AUD$129; 12-month email subscription ~AUD$149.
2. I checked out the Palm and iPaq stuff. I think I could have gone overboard with the Tungsten T5 but I think that was around AUD$650 (even on eBay). Impressive. But really, what was I going to use it for? Journals? Yep, overboard. Plus there is an offer on at the moment for a keyboard, worth AUD$99... but it's messy coz you've got to claim it like a cashback. And it DOES look and feel fragile (I checked it out at a shop).
3. The Pocketmail provides email access with mobile or landline phone anywhere in Australia (mobile maybe not, but landline wherever there's a booth or pub phone). Oh, sorry. Anywhere in Australia AND North America. I have a pay-as-you-go mobile that's still going strong after 4-1/2 years (!!!!). It's not viable in North America, but so what? Really, what else do I need?
4. Unless I could access a modem coupler, I couldn't have that sort of "anywhere" access and versatility UNLESS I got the Pocketmail cradle for Palm devices, which just adds to the cost -- I'd have to get the Palm device to fit!
5. The software structure is simple as chips. You could say it's 1980s style. Suits me. I grew up with it (I was doing remote data transfer for publications.. long before... well, before the gurus got on to it and created the internet), and acoustic couplings and stuff like that. And best of all, it doesn't have MS emblazoned anywhere on it.
6. The Palm and iPaq stuff had "Word and Excel" somewhere. I don't need them when I'm touring. I've had enough of them at work. Word in particular has made me, as a former journalist, lazy and slapdash. It will be good therapy to compose and write at night in the wilderness without Mr Gates looking over my shoulder and giving me constant advice!! Note: The screen is backlit.
7. I bought the device really to keep in contact with people who are really dear to me. It is not meant to create webpages. Webpages I can create from source code in Notepad and Internet Explore (argggghhh) at any cafe or library. I can write the text, including the code, outline the design on paper and translate in next to no time in the cafe or library.
8. PocketMail doesn't on-pass hotmail emails, currently my main form of personal email contact. So what? The ISP I end up deciding to use for a webpage will include a POP3 email anyway, and THAT can be handled for PocketMail onpassing.
9. The PocketMail device is compact, comes in at 500 grams, has a reasonable keyboard four a touch-typist (I presume, but I'll know when it arrives).
10. It RUNS ON TWO AA BATTERIES. Holy moly -- I can get two 1000mA rechargeable AAs and run it forever!!! And I am looking at building a solar-power battery charger.
11. Its light weight is a real attraction -- small and light enough to go in the handlebar bag. I resisted the urge to "upsize" with leather or waterproof satchels and batteries with a fast charger because I am cheap and mean. A small AUD$5.00 drybag will take care of the wet, and I don't need to ponse around with leather.
12. PDAs have varying levels of power consumption and aren't powered by AA batteries, but by... what? I didn't even bother to find out. Colour screens consume a lot of power, too. They do have heaps of memory (but you pay also for additional memory). You can swap camera cards with some. I don't have a digital camera yet, and I will take this into account. I figure that my ISP or even hotmail and PocketMail can take care of the picture files I create as well.
13. I can't handle attachments on the PocketMail. So what? It does notify if there is an attachment on any particular email; therefore I know what to look out for at the next cafe/library stop.
14. The screen is pretty small, and has a limited number of lines to create and edit. Oddly, thinking about what I am doing *right* now (on the BF message box), it actually has more lines of text!!! Cool.
15. It's cheap. Did I mention that before?
I sourced information about the effectiveness of this device from Jamie's site, but also before that I kept track of his experiences with crazyguy's site. The selection wasn't made on a whim today or last week. I have been investigating this for around 18 months (in fact, since I went to Europe for PBP in 2003). But the discussion here sort of prompted some action and closer inspection of options in various shops. Budget was a prime consideration.
I'll keep in touch with how things progress, although that depends on where I am at any particular time!!!
#27
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: London, Ontario, Canada
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I actually upgraded from my old Sharpe TM-20 to the new Pocketmail Composer this winter. I had the opportunity to use it quite successfully during my tour last weekend!
Although I didn't actually measure this it does feel lighter then the old unit. You can also type in much longer emails with this device too. Batteries on the old Sharpe lasted a long time before replacement so I just stayed with normal batteries for the unit.
It is possible to create a script that receives an email and then basically have the script create a new web page for you whenever an email is received. That's what Crazyguyonabike.com does and I did something similar this weekend as well. Right now my script is very simple but as time passes it will likely evolve past what it is today.
Other then a sun burn, a sore butt and mildly tired legs my first tour of 2005 was a success! It was a lot of fun, got me back on the bike and let me once again enjoy the countryside.
https://www.bicycletouring101.com/BreathIntro.htm
I purchased the annual contract this time around. I like having the ability to go on tour and update a tour log for friends to read without needing to do a last minute scramble to get service going again.
~Jamie N
Although I didn't actually measure this it does feel lighter then the old unit. You can also type in much longer emails with this device too. Batteries on the old Sharpe lasted a long time before replacement so I just stayed with normal batteries for the unit.
It is possible to create a script that receives an email and then basically have the script create a new web page for you whenever an email is received. That's what Crazyguyonabike.com does and I did something similar this weekend as well. Right now my script is very simple but as time passes it will likely evolve past what it is today.
Other then a sun burn, a sore butt and mildly tired legs my first tour of 2005 was a success! It was a lot of fun, got me back on the bike and let me once again enjoy the countryside.
https://www.bicycletouring101.com/BreathIntro.htm
I purchased the annual contract this time around. I like having the ability to go on tour and update a tour log for friends to read without needing to do a last minute scramble to get service going again.
~Jamie N
#28
Senior Member
Ya just gotta love an Express Post Overnight Satchel for getting a new toy into your hands 24 hours after ordering it. Well, 36 hours, actually.
The PocketMail Composer arrived this morning. It's small... like not much bigger than a scientific calculators. I'm not sure my buffoon fingers will cope with the small keyboard, but we'll see. The more I delve into it, the more I like the simplicity. Time will tell...
I'll be activating and playing tomorrow. Stay tuned!
The PocketMail Composer arrived this morning. It's small... like not much bigger than a scientific calculators. I'm not sure my buffoon fingers will cope with the small keyboard, but we'll see. The more I delve into it, the more I like the simplicity. Time will tell...
I'll be activating and playing tomorrow. Stay tuned!
#29
Junior Member
Join Date: Apr 2005
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Hi Rowan
How are you finding the Pocketmail?
I am after a cheap device for my trip that will allow me to
1. Write using a keyboard whenever the mood takes me (eg in a coffeeshop or campsite) and not only when I am sitting in a library or Internet cafe
2. Easily transfer text to a PC or online journal (without mucking about with cables, software, mobile phones etc)
3. Use batteries (ie not have to find a powerpoint to charge)
This seems to be the only device short of a laptop I have seen that can do all this
Just wondering if you have found any negatives to it?
Also do you know whether if you sign up in Aus it also allows toll free access in the US as well, or do you have to sign up separately???
How are you finding the Pocketmail?
I am after a cheap device for my trip that will allow me to
1. Write using a keyboard whenever the mood takes me (eg in a coffeeshop or campsite) and not only when I am sitting in a library or Internet cafe
2. Easily transfer text to a PC or online journal (without mucking about with cables, software, mobile phones etc)
3. Use batteries (ie not have to find a powerpoint to charge)
This seems to be the only device short of a laptop I have seen that can do all this
Just wondering if you have found any negatives to it?
Also do you know whether if you sign up in Aus it also allows toll free access in the US as well, or do you have to sign up separately???
#30
Senior Member
About the only negative is that the keyboard is a little on the small side. If you are used to touch-typing, you may need to modify your keystroking!!
I haven't got into a tour situation yet -- that happens in July -- but I've done a few messages and sent them to the PocketMail account and to another individual. It's all very, very good. You can't do attachments, or receive them to the device itself, but they are notified and held on the PocketMail site.
You can also transfer messages from another personal non-PocketMail site, except fro Hotmail which doesn't support the format. Any service that supports POP3 and another type I forget right now can have emails diverted and received into you PocketMail.
There's also a restriction on the use of digital mobile phones in being able to transfer the data when sending/receiving, but PocketMail has some advice on this, especially if you are intending on purchasing a mobile when you go to the US.
It really is a tiny, simple device and the simplicity is what attacts me. I'm looking forward to using it in the field.
If you want to set up a journal, PocketMail now provides that facility (a blog that you can direct familly and friends to) and Jamie Noble has plenty of advice on using it for the crazyguyonabike site -- plus Neil Gunton, the site host, has a detailed set of instructions for using it.
You can send updates on your ride, and when you get a chance, upload pictures from your camera to add to the site.
The unit comes with two ordinary alkaline AA batteries. It switches off if not used after three minutes, but saves the data. The claim of three to four months use from the batteries seems as though it might be realistic.
I've made up a a bubblewrap bag and will be getting a small drybag to keep it in. PocketMail make the point it is not waterproof. The casing also is plastic, so needs protection from shock. And the floppiness of the hinged sender part underneath is a bit disconcerting at first until you can see the two small spring-loaded hinges in there.
A bit of preliminary practice is needed, too. The chatter when connected and transferring data seems to go in segments. After a bit of use, you get used to waiting for the LEDs and audio alerts to let you know everything is finished.
As to call cost, this is something I am not clear on. I gather your account, if in Australia, requires access through the Australian 1800 number, which means dialling the international codes and therefore the cost of the international call for however long it lasts (and that depends on the amount of material you are sending). You may need to explore this further, as I will when I go to North America later in the year.
In addition, there is a limit on the length of emails that can be received into the unit, although extra long emails are not insurmountable -- they can be divided and received as separate files.
Hope that helps.
I haven't got into a tour situation yet -- that happens in July -- but I've done a few messages and sent them to the PocketMail account and to another individual. It's all very, very good. You can't do attachments, or receive them to the device itself, but they are notified and held on the PocketMail site.
You can also transfer messages from another personal non-PocketMail site, except fro Hotmail which doesn't support the format. Any service that supports POP3 and another type I forget right now can have emails diverted and received into you PocketMail.
There's also a restriction on the use of digital mobile phones in being able to transfer the data when sending/receiving, but PocketMail has some advice on this, especially if you are intending on purchasing a mobile when you go to the US.
It really is a tiny, simple device and the simplicity is what attacts me. I'm looking forward to using it in the field.
If you want to set up a journal, PocketMail now provides that facility (a blog that you can direct familly and friends to) and Jamie Noble has plenty of advice on using it for the crazyguyonabike site -- plus Neil Gunton, the site host, has a detailed set of instructions for using it.
You can send updates on your ride, and when you get a chance, upload pictures from your camera to add to the site.
The unit comes with two ordinary alkaline AA batteries. It switches off if not used after three minutes, but saves the data. The claim of three to four months use from the batteries seems as though it might be realistic.
I've made up a a bubblewrap bag and will be getting a small drybag to keep it in. PocketMail make the point it is not waterproof. The casing also is plastic, so needs protection from shock. And the floppiness of the hinged sender part underneath is a bit disconcerting at first until you can see the two small spring-loaded hinges in there.
A bit of preliminary practice is needed, too. The chatter when connected and transferring data seems to go in segments. After a bit of use, you get used to waiting for the LEDs and audio alerts to let you know everything is finished.
As to call cost, this is something I am not clear on. I gather your account, if in Australia, requires access through the Australian 1800 number, which means dialling the international codes and therefore the cost of the international call for however long it lasts (and that depends on the amount of material you are sending). You may need to explore this further, as I will when I go to North America later in the year.
In addition, there is a limit on the length of emails that can be received into the unit, although extra long emails are not insurmountable -- they can be divided and received as separate files.
Hope that helps.
#31
Rotten Banana Legs!
Join Date: Jul 2004
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Originally Posted by David in PA
Hello,
I'm leaving for my TransAm Tour in mid-May and want to keep a very detailed electronic journal. Hey, I might write a book about it. It's worth a shot. Anyway, I'd like to learn the best way of keeping the journal.
I'm leaving for my TransAm Tour in mid-May and want to keep a very detailed electronic journal. Hey, I might write a book about it. It's worth a shot. Anyway, I'd like to learn the best way of keeping the journal.
im in the same exact situation... i ended up buying a small, lightweight and cheap little laptop (the averatec 3250).. i purchased an aluminum case for the it so it doesnt get smashed in the trailer. what sold me on the laptop i was just dont wanna deal with a palm device or pocketmail seemed kinda dinky for how i wanna use it. i knew if i didnt bring the laptop i was gonna get really frustrated dealing with pocket devices.. im the biggest internet junky around, i wanna write lengthy posts and upload them later when i find a computer thats connected to the web. im as excited to write about my transam expiereince as i am to actually ride it.
i got a smaller/lighter tent and sleeping bag and ive made a couple of sacrifices with my gear to justify bringing a laptop on tour...
-mike
https://chickenlips999.crazyguyonabike.com
Last edited by Chickenlips999; 05-08-05 at 09:25 AM.