Tech From an E-booker’s Viewpoint

One thing I like is being able to customize my devices.  It makes it more unique and personal.  I thought is would be nice to talk about a  few things that can make using your device more enjoyable.

USB flash drives:  You can also use USB thumb drives with the DT375.  That is, if you don’t mind it sticking out of the device.  I got it to work using a file I got from the Epods Yahoo! user group.  If anyone is interested in getting it, let me know.

Virtual Display:  I bought this program because I don’t like reading in landscape mode, especially when viewing PDF files.  It can be unstable at times, but you can download the trial version to see if you like it.  Just make sure that you’ve backed up your files before installing.

Adding E-books:  In order for the Palm reader to see your books, they must in be in a specific folder.  When you install the software it creates a folder called “Peanut Press” in your m”My Documents” folder.  More than likely you will want to keep your e-book files on a memory card.  So, on your CF card create a folder called “My Documents”.  In that folder create another folder called “Peanut Press”.  Now copy your palm books into this folder.  When you start the reader it will now list all your books.  I also do this for Mobipocket and MS Reader.  For my Mobi books I create a folder called “My Ebooks” within the “My Documents” folder and place my e-book files inside.  For lit books I place a folder called “My Library” and then copy my lit files inside.  I find this keeps everything organized.  Also if for some reason you don’t want to go through the activation process, you can use Convert Lit GUI and downvert your lit files and the reader will  then be able to access the files.  I do this because I have had problems with reactivating the reader on my PC.  The Microsoft site says I am over my device limit, but I was just trying to activate the same device.  Anyway, I have ended up with two Microsoft passports. So the only way I can read all my books is to downvert them.  (More after the break to include pictures).

Continue reading “Enhancing your DT375″

Several applications and tips have been added to the DT375 site since I last visited.  Yesterday I mentioned EzBackup.  I was able to install without a problem, however when I tried to create a backup, options were limited.  When I chose full backup it attempted to backup my storage card files along with everything else.  So I cancelled the backup and had to select files individually.  This took quite a while not to mention tedious.  If anyone knows how to do this better, please let me know.  I tried to test my backup by recreating my reset issue when pressing the power button, but I couldn’t.  So I forced a reset and went from there.  The backup didn’t go well the first time.  The second time was a charm.  One thing, to keep from reinstalling the backup software, install it to your storage card.I also installed GAPI for Handheld PCs along with the multimedia applications.  I viewed an Mpeg4 video I downloaded from archive.org.  Viewing was really pixelated and I could hardly hear it.  I tried using Sound Widget, but I got a pop-up saying it could not find the exe file.  I don’t understand since it installed without any problems. The problem with the video could be the video quality of file I downloaded.  I’ll try again later with one of own files when I get the chance.  I also could not use my regular earphones which is a drag.

I must say that my tablet is behaving quite well.  I wonder if it is because of GAPI.  I got excited when I saw screen orientation options in the settings, but it doesn’t work for the DT375.  Instead I got a pop-up screen suggesting Virtual Display.  I already own this application, but have been reluctant to use it since the time I thought I had bricked my device. I have been using it today without fear now that I know I can restore everything from backup.  Since this has taken so long, I’ll continue with my software and desktop enhancement tips tomorrow.

One of my e-book obsessions is to find the cheapest ultimate reader.  As a result of my search I have accumulated lot of gadgets.  This week I’d like to review some of them.  Some are still available for sale from time to time on EBay.   First up is the DT375.  I first read about it on Teleread and it seemed like a good device.  My only hesitance was that it is a Win CE device. However, after visiting Andy’s site, I decided to go ahead.  I bought it from Andy when he had one for sale on EBay. 

Advantages:

The device is quite light when comparing it to my Cybook.  At first, I thought that the extra battery attached would be cumbersome, but it actually makes it easier to hold the tablet.  The greatest advantage is that all four of my major reading software applications are available.  Currently, I have MS Reader, Palm’s reader, µBook, and Mobipocket.  I found the learning curve to be non-existent since I am already familiar with Win CE.  I can also surf the Internet using the same Ambicom wireless card that I use for my Cybook.  Drivers are available at Ambicom’s site.  Surfing is slow, but I knew that going into it.  I also like the screen size at 8.4″.  It’s bright and settings can be adjusted.  Resolution is nice at 800 x 600. This is the same as the defaut setting on my UMPC.

Potential Disadvantages:

My biggest problem with the DT375 is the power button.  If I don’t push just right it will reset the tablet.  Once this happens I have to reinstall my programs.  I now have everything installed on the CF card.  So now when it resets I still have to reinstall the shortcuts to the menu and some other personal preferences.  This can be quite frustrating and I have to admit I no longer use it as much as I use to. The obvious disadvantage in my opinion is that it is Win CE 4.2. and if you want to add more applications, they are hard to find, if they exist.  Fortunately, Andy’s website has a nice selection to get you started.  I have written him and he responds quickly and with easy to understand information.  About a week after I received my tablet I thought that I had bricked it, but as usual he came to my rescue.  Currently he has posted a backup program which should help reset woes.  I will give it a try and report back.  Tomorrow I will continue my review of the DT375 along with some pictures and ways to maximize your use.