Portable email [Archive] - Off Camber Forums

TravelGal

06-19-07, 02:07 PM

Two prongs to this question.

1) Which email service do you guys recommend for general email access while away from home? I've been using Mail2Web for my website mail (Earthlink) but it is very cumbersome.

2) I'm looking for a small, cheap alternative to taking my laptop so I can access email on international trips. Maybe it's another laptop. I dunno. I don't have a blackberry and it would be too small to read all that spam anyway. ;) I want something that is a keyboard and screen--maybe 4" by 8" and lightweight. I can bring the other programs with me on a portable zip drive or whatever they call them these days.

Any suggestions to get me closer to 2007?

Thanks.

WickerBill

06-19-07, 02:08 PM

What's your budget?

Joelski

06-19-07, 02:25 PM

G-mail works on phones

TravelGal

06-19-07, 03:20 PM

G-mail works on phones

But I don't use gmail for my business accounts. And I don't want to use a phone because I prefer to scan through the spam as fast as possible. Phones are too small for that, IMHO.

WB: Budget: Is like where I ask you how much want to spend on a trip to Tahiti and you say $1200?

Realistically, I don't want to spend more than $400 plus or minus $100. That's because I've done without it til now and I can continue to do without it. It's a luxury.

racermike

06-19-07, 03:55 PM

My company just issued me a Palm 755p to learn to use (actually arriving by UPS tomorrow)

Looks really cool, that I will be able to send/receive mail, use GPS tools, etc

Insomniac

06-19-07, 04:24 PM

T-Mobile Sidekick? I'm trying to think of what would have a bigger screen for you.

Joelski

06-19-07, 05:38 PM

Newegg has some decent Acer laptops in the $500 range.

TravelGal

06-19-07, 06:23 PM

Newegg has some decent Acer laptops in the $500 range.

Size, weight?

I'll have a look.

I may be looking for what isn't wanted or isn't possible. About half the size of a regular laptop and half the weight.

extramundane

06-19-07, 06:42 PM

2) I'm looking for a small, cheap alternative to taking my laptop so I can access email on international trips. Maybe it's another laptop. I dunno. I don't have a blackberry and it would be too small to read all that spam anyway. ;) I want something that is a keyboard and screen--maybe 4" by 8" and lightweight. I can bring the other programs with me on a portable zip drive or whatever they call them these days.

Palm just released this thing (http://www.palm.com/us/products/mobilecompanion/foleo/index.html?creativeID=rd_foleo). Dunno if it's any good or if it will even work for your purposes, but it's there...

Joelski

06-19-07, 06:54 PM

Size, weight?

I'll have a look.

I may be looking for what isn't wanted or isn't possible. About half the size of a regular laptop and half the weight.

Sony makes such a thing, but it's $$$

WickerBill

06-19-07, 08:16 PM

TravelGal

06-19-07, 08:39 PM

I think you're looking for a UMPC.

Samsung UMPC at Best Buy (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8276974&st=umpc&lp=1&type=product&cp=1&id=1171058250904)

Not cheap, yet. They have great foldable keyboards as an accessory... total package would be under 2lbs.

GASP! You're right. I love the gadget but not the price.

I like the look of the Palm thing. It's exactly what I had in mind. Price is good too. Now I have to get a smart phone.......not sure I'm quite that smart.

RusH

06-19-07, 09:49 PM

Two prongs to this question.

1) Which email service do you guys recommend for general email access while away from home? I've been using Mail2Web for my website mail (Earthlink) but it is very cumbersome.

Thanks.

Hotmail works flawless on my tiny Nextel, and I have a choice of 5 "from" address so as to look professional...which I never do.:gomer:

As long a Earthlink forwards, and possibly keeps the mail on the server, it will work.

TravelGal

06-19-07, 09:59 PM

Thanks RusH. I was about to ask again about the access question. Earthlink does keep the mail on the server until you do something with it. Of course, that means you get to see all the spam because they don't block much. Forwarding to hotmail is a good idea. I think I have (or did have) a hotmail account. Or, to pick up on what was said earlier, perhaps I could forward it to my gmail account.

Did I mention I have too many accounts? LOL!

SteveH

06-19-07, 10:33 PM

I've got a Motorola Q (corporate issue) that I am using to access 3 email accounts (1 for work and 2 that are personal) plus its a fairly decent web browser. I'm not having too may problems with spam any more. Comcast does a pretty good job of filtering my personal accounts and I get virtually none on my corporate email. The Q's biggest fault is battery life - or lack of life. Considering I only use it for data (not as a cell phone) and have an extended life battery, it should last far longer than it does. It needs to be charged nearly every night. My son has a Palm Treo that he likes, he also installed GPS on it. Having a handheld GPS for traveling is a great addition. Something you might want to check in to. I'm not sure there's much between smartphones (Q, Treo, Blackberry, Blackjack, etc.) and the type of PC that WickerBill posted. Those would be great devices for travel if they were less expensive but they are nearly the price of a decent laptop.

Saw some half sized laptops in Tokyo in 2005 that I would just love to have for travel. However, they too nearly cost as much as a full size laptop.

TravelGal

06-20-07, 12:44 AM

Thanks for the additional comments. The main point to remember is that I'm asking about this to make my international travel easier. Here at home, things work pretty well.

For example, in China, all the hotel rooms had free broadband but I had no computer because I didn't want to waste any of my 20 kilo allotment on electronics AND I didn't want to bring my own laptop from home.

I had someone helping with my email. That person accessed it on Mail2Web and managed to delete all the items that were meant to be kept. So, 3 weeks without email. It was sort of nice -- until I find out some of the things I really should have seen. :irked:

Next need is for a trip to the NW of Western Australia (not Surfer's) where I'll again wish I had something of my own that was light and easy to carry and could get me into my Earthlink mail (other than Mail2Web, which accesses the server) *and* would be basically expendible if snatched. I'd miss the $$$ but I wouldn't lose any data.

Joelski

06-20-07, 01:41 AM

I use World Client on the road. It's IMAP rather than POP3, which I have no no idea what it does, but it is accessible from any machine, anywhere.

Cam

06-20-07, 08:32 AM

Next need is for a trip to the NW of Western Australia (not Surfer's)

That's my part of the world! :eek: Whereya going?

skidmarks

06-20-07, 08:39 AM

I use World Client on the road. It's IMAP rather than POP3, which I have no no idea what it does, but it is accessible from any machine, anywhere.

IMAP has multiple folders and keeps all the mail on the server, so you can log in from anywhere and see all your email. POP3 only has the inbox on the server, once it is accessed it is moved onto your computer so you have to use that machine to read any old messages.

The advantage of POP3 is that you can connect, download your messages and disconnect (if you are being charged for connection time) - IMAP you have to stay connected to the innerweb to read email.

:nerd:

Since money is no object for you :) I would go for this -VAIO® VGN-TXN29N/L. Integrated wireless, a powerful processor and a widescreen display, all wrapped up in a striking carbon fiber casing.
It is underpowerd IMO for the price, but for a mobile web/email platform it is very nice. ;)

KLang

06-20-07, 09:18 AM

Can't really offer any hardware advice but be careful if you chose a solution based on wireless access. International roaming data charges can be a shock. Learned that the hard way on our last trip to Mexico using a Cingular card in a laptop. Email might not be so bad but surfing OC cost a fortune. :eek:

TravelGal

06-20-07, 12:29 PM

Email might not be so bad but surfing OC cost a fortune. :eek:

But we were worth it, weren't we? ;) Serves ya right for not booking it with me. Before the mods go nuts, I'm JUST KIDDING. I don't book Mexico because I haven't been there in at least 10 years.

Cam, I was offered a FREE a cruise that starts in Broome on August 26 and ends in Darwin on Sept 6. Those are the only parts of Australia I have not seen so I'm excited. I plan to spend a few days prior in Broome and maybe even fly to Kununurra for a couple of nights.

It may very well have deep-sixed the plan to go to Surfers this year, due to the timing. I'm not sure I can get myself down there two months in a row.

As for the hardware/software, several of my travel agent friends are looking for the same thing I'm searching for so I decided to ask the OC braintrust. So far, I've got some good ideas. Apart from the VAIO® VGN-TXN29N/L. PPBBTTT> LOL! OK, it's a good idea :)

Insomniac

06-20-07, 12:47 PM

Size, weight?

I'll have a look.

I may be looking for what isn't wanted or isn't possible. About half the size of a regular laptop and half the weight.

I don't think you'll find that in your price range. The thin/light notebooks generally cost more than the cheapest laptops.

What you want is probably a UMPC (Ultra-Mobile PC) but there aren't many of those on the market right now.

A couple out there are:
http://www.samsung.com/products/UltraMobilePC/index.asp
http://www.tabletkiosk.com/
http://www.oqo.com/products/

Edit: WB already mentioned UMPCs. Newegg (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834131002) has one for $750.

dando

06-20-07, 01:04 PM

Cam

06-20-07, 01:13 PM

Cam, I was offered a FREE a cruise that starts in Broome on August 26 and ends in Darwin on Sept 6. Those are the only parts of Australia I have not seen so I'm excited. I plan to spend a few days prior in Broome and maybe even fly to Kununurra for a couple of nights.

Been to Broome and Kunnunurra. I was fairly young tho. Lots to do in Broome. Cable beach, marvel over the leftovers of the catalinas that were bombed by Tojo during WWII The pearling luggers etc. Don't remember a lot about Kununurra, but you maybe can do a tour of Argyle diamond mine, which I don't even think was there when I was.

BOT, have you considered an Ipaq?

RichK

06-20-07, 01:38 PM

Sounds like the real issue is spam, not the lack of affordable technology to check email. I agree that forwarding email to a yahoo or hotmail account will really help you out.

nrc

06-20-07, 03:39 PM

You should look into the the Nokia N800. Web and email access through WiFi or bluetooth via your cell phone and it's $400.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/NokiaN800tablet.jpg

dando

06-20-07, 04:17 PM

If you have WiFi access, you can look into a PDA like an Axim or one of the recent Palms with integrated WiFi. I've all but given up on PDAs after having several Palms and an Axim. A buddy of mine also recently picked up a WiFi/Bluetooth device for surfing and checking e-mail:

http://reviews.cnet.com/tablet-pcs/nokia-n800-internet-tablet/4505-3126_7-32309517.html?ar=o&tag=pdtl-list

It's light and cheap and serves his needs through local travels. Not sure how well it would serve ya abroad, tho.

-Kevin

You should look into the the Nokia N800. Web and email access through WiFi or bluetooth via your cell phone and it's $400.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/NokiaN800tablet.jpg

http://www.offcamber.net/forums/showpost.php?p=198600&postcount=23

*WAVES*

;)

Great minds think alike, yo. :)

-Kevin

nrc

06-20-07, 04:40 PM

http://www.offcamber.net/forums/showpost.php?p=198600&postcount=23

*WAVES*

;)

Great minds think alike, yo. :)

-Kevin

Bah. You don't name it in the post you gets no credit. :p

emjaya

06-20-07, 05:11 PM

TravelGal

06-20-07, 07:45 PM

O/T, remember to cover up from the sun and don't go swimming in the ocean or rivers. :)

Moi? WATER? I don't think so. Only in Tahiti. :D But thanks for sun reminder.

Prob with the Nokia is the aforementioned aversion to using WiFi. Not to mention that it's not readily available where I go. Got to be something that connects to broadband with an easily accessible plug in the hotel room.

Cam: Thanks for the extra "n" in Kunnunura. I'm always misspelling it. I'm torn between the Argyle Mine, the Bungle Bungles, and El Questro. I'd like to see all three, which is why I wanted to go on my own but I see the airfare alone is $360 RT. I get one of the 3 from the ship so I guess I'll just have to choose. Wonder if the Mine is giving samples?

nrc

06-21-07, 12:47 AM

Prob with the Nokia is the aforementioned aversion to using WiFi. Not to mention that it's not readily available where I go. Got to be something that connects to broadband with an easily accessible plug in the hotel room.

If it's just a problem with WiFi availability you can always use a portable access point. The travel versions aren't much larger than a cassette.

Joelski

06-21-07, 01:49 AM

If it's just a problem with WiFi availability you can always use a portable access point. The travel versions aren't much larger than a cassette.

The bush has WiFi? :confused:

:D :runs:

TravelGal

06-22-07, 09:35 PM

^^^ LOL!

I just had time to look at all these things in detail. I really like the portable access point idea, thanks boss, mostly because it seems to be the only thing that will work. I'm thinking to buy the trilogy of the Nokia, a portable keyboard, a portable access point to make my own wifi. That sets me back about the $500 max I had in mind.

It has also occurred to me that I might try to acquire a travel partner who would split the cost. Would be great until I'm in Timbuktu and they are in Tobago

Ankf00

06-23-07, 12:23 AM

I prefer Kathmandu. :gomer:

nrc

06-25-07, 04:09 AM

I swear the folks at Woot! are monitoring the forum. First the USB missile launcher now this.

Today's item is the Nokia N770 for $129.99. The N770 is the predecessor to the N800. The N800 addressed complaints about speed and memory and added some new features. If your only need is checking email it would probably be adequate. If you think you may push it harder you may prefer to stick with the newer model.

http://www.woot.com/

dando

06-25-07, 10:30 AM

I swear the folks at Woot! are monitoring the forum. First the USB missile launcher now this.

You beat me to it, yo. Here's the CNet take on the 770:

http://reviews.cnet.com/pdas/nokia-770-internet-tablet/4505-3127_7-31396042.html?tag=prod.txt.1

The editors rated it low, but users rate it high. Perhaps the editors didn't quite know what to make of it being a new product and all. Or they could just be morons. :\

BTW, if the woot peeps are watching, I want screaming monkeys, please. :D

-Kevin

TravelGal

06-25-07, 11:24 PM

I'll have to remember that. I missed it today. Too late to gather my wits. Heading to Copper Canyon manana.

Hasta later dudes and dudettes. :thumbup:

SteveH

06-26-07, 10:00 AM

Buy.com also has it for dale at 139.99
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=204081472&adid=17653&dcaid=17653

grungex

06-26-07, 02:55 PM

I bought one on Woot yesterday, I have no idea what I'll do with it. :gomer:

nrc

06-26-07, 03:15 PM

I bought one on Woot yesterday, I have no idea what I'll do with it. :gomer:

Visit Off Camber, of course. :)

WickerBill

06-26-07, 04:53 PM

I bought one on Woot yesterday, I have no idea what I'll do with it. :gomer:

And that right there is what keeps Woot in business... :)

Gnam

06-26-07, 05:13 PM

It would be handy for timing and scoring at the track or on the couch.

nrc

06-26-07, 05:17 PM

It would be handy for timing and scoring at the track or on the couch.

That's one plan. :) Although it doesn't do java applets so I'll be using the HTML version, it should be fine.

grungex

06-26-07, 09:45 PM

It would be handy for timing and scoring at the track or on the couch.

That was actually the one use I figured I'd put it to.

nrc

06-26-07, 10:11 PM

Hmm. I don't see a plain HTML display link on the timing page anymore. :(

SteveH

06-27-07, 12:41 AM

Here's your answer FlipStart (http://www.flipstart.com/)

You're rich, aren't you? :gomer:

dando

06-27-07, 10:36 AM

Here's your answer FlipStart (http://www.flipstart.com/)

You're rich, aren't you? :gomer:

How cute. 512 MB RAM w/Vista = :laugh:

:saywhat:

-Kevin

nrc

06-30-07, 04:29 PM

My Nokia N770 arrived from Woot! yesterday. I'm very impressed so far. I'm composing this on the deck while listening to music streaming from our music collection (via Slimserver).

The browser works better than I expected for routine browsing. Slow sometimes but entirely useable. I haven't tried email yet, but it looks pretty straight forward. Text entry is faster than I expected with the stylis keyboard. I didn't have much luck with the handwriting recognition, but then I can barely recognize it myself.

grungex

06-30-07, 04:31 PM

Got mine yesterday as well. E-mail works fine, it hates my handwriting -- my fault, entirely. The really bad news -- no CC timing and scoring, as Java is not supported. :irked:

nrc

06-30-07, 04:54 PM

Got mine yesterday as well. E-mail works fine, it hates my handwriting -- my fault, entirely. The really bad news -- no CC timing and scoring, as Java is not supported. :irked:
They used to have a plain HTML version. Complain and maybe they'll relink it. If not, I'll put something up myself. I have about half the code already as part of reporting timing in chat.

Cam

06-30-07, 06:46 PM

Got mine yesterday as well. E-mail works fine, it hates my handwriting -- my fault, entirely. The really bad news -- no CC timing and scoring, as Java is not supported. :irked:

Hieroglyphics are not spported dummy! :p

Gnam

07-27-07, 03:29 PM

They used to have a plain HTML version. Complain and maybe they'll relink it. If not, I'll put something up myself. I have about half the code already as part of reporting timing in chat.
HTML version of timing & Scoring (http://gmsleaderboard.vfx.com/ChampCar/LiveTiming_HTML.asp)

care of Hoop-98 at CCF.:thumbup:

Works with the Nokia yes, no?

grungex

07-31-07, 06:33 PM

HTML version of timing & Scoring (http://gmsleaderboard.vfx.com/ChampCar/LiveTiming_HTML.asp)

care of Hoop-98 at CCF.:thumbup:

Works with the Nokia yes, no?

Yes! Thank you thank you thank you!!! :thumbup: :thumbup: