Dell Axim X51V - First Impressions

Brad Isaac · #1 12-13-2005, 07:56 AM

Well, I finally got my hands on one of the X51V Axims from Dell. This is the new one with Windows Mobile 5 and the nice VGA screen.
I have not transferred everything over yet because things have really been rocky.
Some of my first impressions of the device. Good - it's got the great VGA screen. Very pretty, crisp and clear.

Bad - in some respects it seems as slow as an old iPaq 3635.

I believe much of the sluggishness is the result of software not quite ready for WM 5 and I'd say quite a few aren't ready. So I have been lurking around in the dark corners of the beta universe looking for the latest and greatest releases of my favorite titles.
Upgrading to the beta versions of software like Weatherpanel and Wisbar advanced did make a big difference in speed.
Most notably so far for me has been the robust browsing of the new built in Internet Explorer. I just upgraded my copy of Netfront browser last month and I am sort of kicking myself because the browsing speed of IE is truly impressive compared to all prior versions.
The screen is obviously a marvel as well. You could easily waste an entire day fiddling with themes just to see what new spectacular sight you can create.
Today I get to delve into the task of software development on the device.

Not sure what to expect exactly. But considering some of the problems I've had with installing other titles I am hoping it's not too brutal.
Those are my first impressions..what are yours?

bangers_and_mash · #2 12-13-2005, 09:53 AM

There are a whole host of tips (some easy, some requiring that you wine and dine your registry) posted on aximsite.com on how to speed up your x51v. The easiest is to shut off error reporting (under settings>system).
And you're absolutely right about the screen. It's lovely. I grudgingly bought the x51v after accidently killing my e800 in a tragic screen-cleaning accident (windex under the touchscreen anyone?!) and I have to admit that I don't miss my e800 one bit! (ok, I lied, I miss the jog dial!)

Brad Isaac · #3 12-14-2005, 08:59 PM

Hey thanks for the tip. I turned off the error reporting and did notice a boost. I'll check into the other reghacks too.

bkbroil · #4 12-28-2005, 10:03 PM

Hey there -- it's been a long time! I hope all has been well and the site looks great.
What are your impressions on the Axim and WM5 now? also, have you heard anything about HPs release of WM5 for the 4700s?

Brad Isaac · #5 12-28-2005, 10:12 PM

Hey BK, long time no see, hope you are well.
I've adjusted to it rather well. I am probably having more fun with it than I should. I've been snapstreaming some tv shows and watching them during spare time. It's easier to manage schedule, etc since I can see it. Overall, I like it and look forward to using it.
How's your Toshiba hanging in?

bkbroil · #6 12-28-2005, 10:22 PM

I sold my Toshiba e800 on eBay about a week before the new Toshibas were to come out...then it turned out that Toshiba pulled out of the US market....so I waited a little bit and purchased an hx4705 ... (I had to have a VGA screen)... I've been using it regularly....mostly for listening to music and GPS navigation in my car (Arkon powered PDA cradle, CF GPS and mapopolis)
I've been out of the mainstream in regards to keeping up with Pocket PCs....I have no idea what snapstreaming is....I'll have to look it up....