Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox

The Pocket Loox is Fujitsu Siemens's first venture into the Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) market and uses Intel's new PXA250 processor. The PXA250 is based on Xscale technology.

The Loox integrates wireless technology - in this case Bluetooth - into the chassis, with a range of just over 10m. The supplied software makes the transfer of any file type a simple process.

As it is integrated, the Loox retains full use of its Compact Flash (CF) and Secure Digital (SD) slots, which are located to the rear and left side respectively. There's no GPRS to test as yet, but Fujitsu Siemens claims a GPRS plug-on will be available soon.

The PDA runs Pocket PC 2002 whose interface is familiar if not the simplest to navigate.

Looks-wise, the Loox is a little dated and, frankly, a bit chunky. That said, it is light at 175g and comfortable to hold. The left-hand side is moulded to accommodate your thumb.

Using the jog-dial brings up the Fujitsu Siemens shortcut menu screen that links to the majority of functions listed in Pocket PC's Start menu. While the principle is valid, it seems odd that this could not have been adapted to open Pocket PC's Start menu, as opposed to confusing the issue with a second file arrangement.

The 3.5in screen has a disappointing viewing angle, and isn't particularly bright either. On the plus side, the stylus pops out of the side and is superb, primarily because it's very long, at nearly 5in once extended. There's a spare stylus in the box too.

The speakers are surprisingly good for a PDA, but there is still a headphone socket at the top.

At £470, it's pretty expensive but, when compared to other Pocket PC devices available, it's better-featured and has the potential of the Xscale processor to its name.

Specifications

• Intel 400MHz Xscale processor
• 32MB of Rom
• 64MB of Ram
• CF and SD slots
• USB docking station
• Weight: 175g

Price: £468 (£399 ex VAT)
Contact: Fujitsu Siemens 01344 475 555
www.fujitsu-siemens.co.uk