Brighthand Reviews the TH55

[EdFrmBrighthand]

I posted a review of the TH55 on Brighthand this morning. All, in all, I was pretty impressed.

Read the full review at
www.brighthand.com/article/Sony_Clie_TH55_Review

[Gazpacho]

As you should be, Ed. :rolleyes:

Thanks for the review, looks cool. You were pretty impressed by the flip cover. However, don't you think that when you own this device for a reasonable amount of time, the flip cover will scratch considerably? How would it look like then, and would it still be usable?

And do you think you can carry this device in your pant pockets without breaking it?

[mr_gkyc]

Hi,

The review mentioned that the placement of the 4 app keys makes for difficult gaming. Did you have a chance to try out the game controller (GC-10) with the TH55?

George

[jumpyg]

I wan't expecting much from the camera, but those pictures aren't too bad. I imagine they look pretty good when viewed on the Clie, right?

[aoi tsuki]

Looks like a really sold device. If it had a keyboard, i'd be severely tempted to trade in my Ux-50.

[rldunn]

Great review Ed!!

[rlc7254]

One question I have is how easy it it to use the jog dial on the back of the unit with the plastic cover attached? I can only see it getting in the way, and unless it is easily removeable, that could be a problem for me. Also, I only see the black one for sale, both at Sony and other online sites. Will the red one not be offered in the US?

 :D

[xynos]

nice review ed! i guess now for me i will wait for the european version to be out (BT + WiFi) and then decide where to go from there.

[Aces]

Ed,

For those of us who might be thinking of upgrading, did you try any of the older "T" series accessories with the TH-55?  I have the PEGA-UC600 cradle and the PEGA-KB11 keyboard.

My guess is that we'd need different driver software for the keyboard.  But since Sony stopped selling it, I'm guessing they won't support the older keyboard.

As for the cradle, I noticed mine curves around the body of my SJ-33.  Without trying it, I don't know if the TH-55 is wider.  Note that they stopped selling my cradle, and went to a style that is not width limited.

Thanks for the review, and any other info you might have on these questions.

[jhintonh]

Good Evening-
Very nice review. I have the same questions as Aces above regarding the ability to use the older accessories (Aces, I believe you and I already tried to get some of these answers on another thread, to no avail).
-Jhintonh

[contempt]

Another great review. Question concerning the lack of a cradle: Since it's using a the standard connector, will this fit into an NX or T-series cradle?

[joejoe]

From my readings elsewhere (they're all a blur at this point, unfortunately), the T-series cradle will not work because of the shape. I anticipate that all connectors & power supplies *will* work for they are not size limited.

Don't know about keyboards.

[riversen]

Originally posted by joejoe
From my readings elsewhere (they're all a blur at this point, unfortunately), the T-series cradle will not work because of the shape. I anticipate that all connectors & power supplies *will* work for they are not size limited.

Don't know about keyboards.

What???!!!!??? The cradles don't fit? Are you sure? The dimensions seem to fit perfectly, including the shape, for it to fit. Also, the cradle that has the speakers is the same as the traditional cradle. With that being true and that this is listed as an accesory for the TH55, why would it not fit into the older cradles. Have you actually put a TH55 into the older cradle, PEGA-UC50/S?

[EdFrmBrighthand]

I can say for sure that a TG50 cradle doesn't work, because I tried it. I had no problems with the TG50 cables though.

I mostly just charged the TH50 with the cable and HotSynced via Wi-Fi.

Sorry, I don't have the game controller.

As for the flip cover getting scratched up, that is a fact of life for all handhelds. My NX80V looks like its been through a war, even though I try to baby it.

The cover seems robust to me and not going to be easily broken.

[joejoe]

Originally posted by riversen


What???!!!!??? The cradles don't fit? Are you sure? The dimensions seem to fit perfectly, including the shape, for it to fit. Also, the cradle that has the speakers is the same as the traditional cradle. With that being true and that this is listed as an accesory for the TH55, why would it not fit into the older cradles. Have you actually put a TH55 into the older cradle, PEGA-UC50/S?

Whoa! Perhaps I wasn't clear enough with my terminolgy. When I said "T-series" I was referring to the T616/T665 only. I have zero idea about the TG50.

I was only paying attention to what would affect me (with my T615). Sorry for any confusion.

[LanMan]

Ed, how would you say the TH55 'feels'? Do you feel that it feels siginificantly smaller/lighter than say the NX80? When comparing the two in pics the TH55 doesn't look that much smaller than the NX line.

[Reggie]

http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/imagesProducts/180x180/PEGAUC55.jpgFor those asking about cradles, I am almost sure that the PEGA-UC55 cradle would work (see image at right). I tried using the NR/NX cradle and it works but its not a perfect fit but it does charge it.

The TH55 is light and slim. You can some somehow compare it with the TG50 with regards to its thickness and weight.

I will be releasing my review of the TH55 soon.

[LanMan]

I've never seen a TG50. How does the TH55 feel compared to a T665?

[jumpyg]

Thanks Reggie--I look very forward to the review!

[xynos]

I too am looking forward to Reggie's review!

[EdFrmBrighthand]

I'd say the TH55 feels about half the size of the NX80V.

[LanMan]

Originally posted by EdFrmBrighthand
I'd say the TH55 feels about half the size of the NX80V.

Wow, that's great! Thx, Ed. Maybe, this isn't a fair question, but if you were going to pick between the TH55 vs. the NX80, which would you choose?

[riversen]

Originally posted by Reggie
http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/imagesProducts/180x180/PEGAUC55.jpgFor those asking about cradles, I am almost sure that the PEGA-UC55 cradle would work (see image at right). I tried using the NR/NX cradle and it works but its not a perfect fit but it does charge it.

The TH55 is light and slim. You can some somehow compare it with the TG50 with regards to its thickness and weight.

I will be releasing my review of the TH55 soon.

If you can, can you try the cradle that comes with the T665? I would like to see if it is a stretch to put the TH55 in that or if they cradle is a little big for it. I would rather have big than damage the TH55.

Thank you,
Robert

[jumpyg]

EdFrmBrighthand--I have one quick question. What does the TH look like with the cover off? I think I want to put it in a leather case of some type. Do the hinge holes look weird? Are there pictures of the TH-55 with the cover off?

I'm a little worried about the nice aluminum camera fixture on the back being scratched up if I don't put the thing in a case.

Thanks!

[riversen]

Has anyone heard if Sony or someone else will be offerring an alternative to cover that Sony is currently shipping with their device? I would like to get a non see through cover like I have on my T665.

[joejoe]

Originally posted by EdFrmBrighthand
I'd say the TH55 feels about half the size of the NX80V.

Can you comment on the layout of the Prefs? Is it like the 615 & 665 (pretty standard for even the early Palms)?

[Reggie]

Originally posted by riversen
Has anyone heard if Sony or someone else will be offerring an alternative to cover that Sony is currently shipping with their device? I would like to get a non see through cover like I have on my T665.

Any reason why you don't want a transparent cover? If you prefer not to have the screen on, lets say when doing a recording, you can always use the hold button to turn the screen off.

[Reggie]

Originally posted by joejoe


Can you comment on the layout of the Prefs? Is it like the 615 & 665 (pretty standard for even the early Palms)?

Prefs is pretty standard excpet for the Network option where WiFi is added.

[Reggie]

Originally posted by jumpyg
EdFrmBrighthand--I have one quick question. What does the TH look like with the cover off? I think I want to put it in a leather case of some type. Do the hinge holes look weird? Are there pictures of the TH-55 with the cover off?

I'm a little worried about the nice aluminum camera fixture on the back being scratched up if I don't put the thing in a case.

Thanks!

Let me answer this, when the cover is off, you will see two 'holes' at the top which doesn't look a bit nice. I guess thrid party case makers can use these 'holes' to hold the TH55 in place in their cases.

[LanMan]

Reggie and/or Ed, can either of you comment on how much of the 32MB of ROM is available for possible use?

[rlc7254]

Originally posted by Reggie
http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/imagesProducts/180x180/PEGAUC55.jpgFor those asking about cradles, I am almost sure that the PEGA-UC55 cradle would work (see image at right). I tried using the NR/NX cradle and it works but its not a perfect fit but it does charge it.

The TH55 is light and slim. You can some somehow compare it with the TG50 with regards to its thickness and weight.

I will be releasing my review of the TH55 soon.

 

This is the cradle that SonyStyle is listing as an option for the TH55, cost is $29.00 plus shipping.

 

 :D

[rlc7254]

Originally posted by riversen
Has anyone heard if Sony or someone else will be offerring an alternative to cover that Sony is currently shipping with their device? I would like to get a non see through cover like I have on my T665.

The included contents of the box for the TH55 say a case is included with the unit. Not sure what that entails, most likely a soft cover envelope type.

 :D

[rlc7254]

Originally posted by LanMan
Reggie and/or Ed, can either of you comment on how much of the 32MB of ROM is available for possible use?

According to the spec sheet, all 32 mb is available to the user.

 :D

[LanMan]

I might be wrong, but I'm not sure if that the UC55 cradle has the charging feature built-in. I looks like it's just has a sync cable. Perhaps you can add an AC adapter, or maybe it's a USB charger. Can anyone confirm, or refute?

Sonystyle says:

"USB Cradle to synchronize data with your PC. Keep one in the office and one at home for convenient data synchronization at all times."

It doesn't mention charging, just syncing. However, they also list the PEGA-SPC100K speaker cradle as being compatible. It was designed for the NX line, so doesn't that mean that the TH55 should work in an NX cradle?

Thanks, but I wanted to know how much of the ROM is available, not RAM.

[rlc7254]

Originally posted by LanMan
I might be wrong, but I'm not sure if that the UC55 cradle has the charging feature built-in. I looks like it's just has a sync cable. Perhaps you can add an AC adapter, or maybe it's a USB charger. Can anyone confirm, or refute?

Thanks, but I wanted to know how much of the ROM is available, not RAM.

According to the SonyStyle page for the UC55

http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid=K6_YmWO5FebYmiOTpyTSkiy2rhODJjhcfro=?CategoryName=hp_TG50Series_CradlesCables&ProductSKU=PEGAUC55

it only has an AC port, and you need to purchase the PEGA-AC10 seperately.

 :D

[rlc7254]

Originally posted by LanMan


Thanks, but I wanted to know how much of the ROM is available, not RAM.

 

Sorry, it has 32mb ROM.

 :D

[LanMan]

"it only has an AC port, and you need to purchase the PEGA-AC10 seperately."

Thanks, I didn't see that additional note under the TH55 listing.

Thanks, again. I know it has 32MB of ROM, but I want to know how much of that 32MB can be used for progs that I can load via JackFlash, or whatever it is (I've never used it).

[Aces]

I'm going to ask this question again, this time a little clearer, since several posts have seemed to misunderstand my earlier post.

I currently have an older "T" series cradle and a PEGA-KB11 keyboard.  If I'm going to upgrade from my SJ-33 to a TH-55, I know I can buy a new cradle and keyboard.  But that's another $130 adding to the cost of upgrading.  If I can't use either of my current accessories, I know I won't be getting the TH-55.  But if someone who got there hands on a TH-55 (to review it) has tried to use either of these older, discontinued, accessories, could comment, I'd apreciate it.

[Cyker]

LanMan: No way to know yet: Brayder hasn't updated JackSprat/Flash for TH55 yet, and until they do we can't really check how big the free FlashRAM space available actually is...

Aces: I've looked at it and I *reckon* the TH55 might fit in a T-series cradle. This relies heavily on the fact that the TH55 is roughly the same width as a T-series Clie however.

My only concern is the bottom connector on the TH55 seems to extend out a bit, whereas on the T-series it was flush with the body...

[rlc7254]

Originally posted by LanMan
"it only has an AC port, and you need to purchase the PEGA-AC10 seperately."

Thanks, I didn't see that additional note under the TH55 listing. 



Actually, you have to go to the accessories listings, then click on the cradle itself to see that. They don't make it easy to find out those details, do they?

 :D

[LanMan]

Thanks, Cyker, and rlc7254!

One thing that concerns me about using my old T415 cradle is that EdFrmBrighthand says that the TH55 is 3" wide, whereas my T415 is only 2 7/8" wide. My T415 fits snuggly into it's cradle and probably would not allow another 1/8" of PDA.

[Aces]

LanMan,

You have a good point! My cradle, which is a PEGA-UC600, measures 2.85" across the pocket, with a 0.27" fillet radius along the sides.  And the pocket is 0.42" deep.  The spec sheet in the .pdf sales brochure says it's 73.3mm wide, which equals 2.886", which means it should *JUST* not fit.:(

Now if the PEGA-KB11 keyboard would atleast work...

 :confused:

[tgoulart]

Aces, that is my worry as well. I really want a cradle at work.

[Icthus]

Originally posted by Aces
...I currently have an older "T" series cradle and a PEGA-KB11 keyboard.  If I'm going to upgrade from my SJ-33 to a TH-55, I know I can buy a new cradle and keyboard.  But that's another $130 adding to the cost of upgrading.  If I can't use either of my current accessories, I know I won't be getting the TH-55.  But if someone who got there hands on a TH-55 (to review it) has tried to use either of these older, discontinued, accessories, could comment, I'd apreciate it.

I am not sure which cradles will/won't fit, but according to the spec sheet (http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/documents/specifications/pegth55_specsheet.pdf) on the sony site, and if you search under accessories for TH55, you will see the PEGA-KB100 listed. THis is the same keyboard listed for both your SJ-33 and my TG50. You keyboard (which is the same on I have) should work. If not, there is some very serious design flaw.

[Reggie]

Any kb that works with the SJ/TG/NX will work with the TH.

With regards to the AC10 adapter, the TH comes with an AC10 already. You just need to plug it to the cradle. if you need one for the home and one for the office, just buy those cheap 3rd party sync/charger cables.

[SamuraiCatJB]

Originally posted by Reggie
Any kb that works with the SJ/TG/NX will work with the TH.

With regards to the AC10 adapter, the TH comes with an AC10 already. You just need to plug it to the cradle. if you need one for the home and one for the office, just buy those cheap 3rd party sync/charger cables.

I am sooooo behind on the newer models... did the NX connection differ much from the NR?

[Unregistered]

Originally posted by LanMan
Maybe, this isn't a fair question, but if you were going to pick between the TH55 vs. the NX80, which would you choose?
My needs and your needs are different, so what works for me isn't necessarily what's right for you. The NX80V has a few features I need, like the CompactFlash slot. I also enjoy having the keyboard as an option, though the NX80V's keyboard isn't exactly a joy to use.

Actually, my needs involve a UX series model with a NX series screen, but that's a different issue. :-)

[rened]

Originally posted by Reggie
Any kb that works with the SJ/TG/NX will work with the TH.

With regards to the AC10 adapter, the TH comes with an AC10 already. You just need to plug it to the cradle. if you need one for the home and one for the office, just buy those cheap 3rd party sync/charger cables.

Reggie,

Will the TH fit stable and upright into PalmOne's Wireless keyboard?

Thanks,

René

[depret]

Originally posted by Aces
LanMan,

You have a good point! My cradle, which is a PEGA-UC600, measures 2.85" across the pocket, with a 0.27" fillet radius along the sides.  And the pocket is 0.42" deep.  The spec sheet in the .pdf sales brochure says it's 73.3mm wide, which equals 2.886", which means it should *JUST* not fit.:(

Now if the PEGA-KB11 keyboard would atleast work...

 :confused:

I have pre-order but I have the same concerns and will probably return unopened if both are not compatible. If Reggie could test (cradle and PEGA-KB11 keyboard) and report in his review, I believe all T415, T616, T665 owners would appreciate it.

Alternatively, start another thread and we can post our findings.

0.036 in can be overcome with some filing and polishing (worst case or $30). Keyboard ($100) is another issue.

Accessories and slider design have been holding me back from switch to Palm but if I have to spend $130 to have keyboard/PDA = laptop then I will switch to palm.

Thanks for continuing to clarify, other T415, T616 and T665 owners are appreciative.

[depret]

Aces,

You got me thinking how to figure it out before openning the box.

http://www.clieclub.jp/review/rev_th55tj37/th55.html 10th picture can be measured and scale based on 73.3 mm from PDA to get all the dimensions to answer the cradle question.

Reviewers can not test all possible cradle type (i.e. mine is a PEGA-UC50/S).

Again, keyboard is another issue.

[Reggie]

Originally posted by SamuraiCatJB


I am sooooo behind on the newer models... did the NX connection differ much from the NR?

If I remember right, I was using the cradle of the NR to hotsync and charge my NX before. Yes they are the same.

[Reggie]

Originally posted by rened


Reggie,

Will the TH fit stable and upright into PalmOne's Wireless keyboard?

Thanks,

René

Yes. The wireles kb basically holds firmly all PDA's. The clasp that locks the kb also doubles as a stand at the back of the stand making PDA's stable.

Btw, I recommend you get the Wireless kb from Think Outside. It's the same kb but silver. The difference is the keys show all the shortcuts for Palm and Pocket PC devices (PalmOne's of course shows only the PalmOS shortcuts). It is more of a universal kb.

Here's the link:
http://www.thinkoutside.com/products/stowaway-infrared-palm.html

[rened]

Originally posted by Reggie


Yes. The wireles kb basically holds firmly all PDA's. The clasp that locks the kb also doubles as a stand at the back of the stand making PDA's stable.

Btw, I recommend you get the Wireless kb from Think Outside. It's the same kb but silver. The difference is the keys show all the shortcuts for Palm and Pocket PC devices (PalmOne's of course shows only the PalmOS shortcuts). It is more of a universal kb.

Here's the link:
http://www.thinkoutside.com/products/stowaway-infrared-palm.html

Thanks for your answer. This kb will make this Clie even worth more!

[DonWon]

Ed and Reg,

Now that you had a chance to examine the TH, do you prefer it over the NX and UX?

[EdFrmBrighthand]

Originally posted by DonWon
Ed and Reg,

Now that you had a chance to examine the TH, do you prefer it over the NX and UX?
My answer to this is the Unregistered comment farher up the page. I'll repeat it here, just in case.

My needs and your needs are different, so what works for me isn't necessarily what's right for you. The NX80V has a few features I need, like the CompactFlash slot. I also enjoy having the keyboard as an option, though the NX80V's keyboard isn't exactly a joy to use.

As for whether I prefer it to the UX50, DEFINITELY. As I've said on numerous times, I'm not a fan of the UX50. The screen is just too cramped.

BTW, I've barely picked the TH55 up in days. I'm busy with the TJ37 now. Look for a review in a day or so.

[kusumo]

Any TG50 users are willing to switch to TH55?

[enderenya]

Originally posted by kusumo
Any TG50 users are willing to switch to TH55?

Oh yes!  I'm all for it!

I'm ready for a large screen, with WiFi, and nearly the same dimensions.

[Icthus]

and longer battery life and 21 more Mg RAM

[kusumo]

but no keyboard and BT. :(

[jumpyg]

That thing would be gigantic if it had a keyboard!

[Unregistered]

Can someone sync their device via WiFi instead of using cables? I believe bluetooth connectivity allows sync'ing wirelessly. If so, the cradle/data cable are obsolete (at least for me). AC cable for charging is all that is needed. Thanks in advance

[jumpyg]

Yes, you can sync w/WiFi.

[rldunn]

As jumpyg said, you can do a Wifi sync. You can even do one without needing an access point, just setting up a peer-to-peer connection. This thread explains how:

http://www.cliesource.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=33603

[EdFrmBrighthand]

I actually prefer to HotSync via Wi-Fi. It seems a bit faster.

[Bodhammer]

One feature that I have thought was missing in PDA was "automatic" sync.

What I mean by this is that when I get in range of wireless, I would want my PDA to automatically sync. I thought that this was missing on the Palm TT implimentation. I had a bluetooth adaptor on my work PC and I thought that it would be nice if it would, at least when I turn the unit on at my desk, recognise the bluetooth network and automatically sync.

With WiFi, I would expect that it would be even more universal:

1) If in WiFi range?
2)If home or work PC is on?
3) if VPN or secure network connection can be established?
4) sync if > x hours since last sync

[Aces]

Originally posted by EdFrmBrighthand
I actually prefer to HotSync via Wi-Fi. It seems a bit faster.

Ed,

That brings me to a question.  How difficult will it be to setup a computer with both an ethernet card and a USB WiFi adapter?

 I have a laptop (W98SE) with built-in modem and an ethernet PCMCIA card.  I was able to get it setup so when I have a network connecton (like when I'm at the office) it automatically uses it for internet.  But at home, with a home wired ethernet hub, it will prompt me to dial the internet. So if I connect a USB WiFi adapter, I anticipate problems getting the laptop to know which network to use for what.  I was at CompUSA last night and almost bought one of these adapters.  But I would mainly use it to learn about WiFi and possibly to hotsync (if it's really faster/easier.  I'm pretty good with computers, but I've never dealt with either WiFi nor with multiple network cards in a PC.  Any comments you or anyone else has would be very much appreciated!

One thing I'd like to try when my TH-55 arrives is getting a dialup connection with the laptop then use Wifi to provide a (very slow admittedly) WiFi hotspot.  Once again, it will probably be more about learning then for any real usefulness.  Has anyone tried that either?:confused:

[EdFrmBrighthand]

Aces,

You really ought to post this in the Wireless forum. It's kind of buried here at the end of a long TH55 thread.

-Ed

[Aces]

Ed,

Thanks, that does make more sense.  If any of you have idea's, please respond at the thread below:

http://www.cliesource.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=42298

[froesei]

As a current TG50 user, I don't think I could do without the bluetooth or the keyboard. I very rarely use a stylus anymore (with keyquick), and together with my Sony T616, the bluetooth is a must have.

Screen looks very nice though, as well as the enhanced PIM apps.