Screen protectors | Modem | Web ring | Conversion (Note taker) | Template | Zoom to | Title | Delete mail problem | Copy, cut and paste | Don't screw up your files | Dictionary | Compact Flash
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In the beginning I used it without a screen protector (didn't do that in the long run). Then I switched to overhead projector film (cuts down on visibility so much I tend to squint, especially if I've played solitaire - really scratches it!). Finally I got hold of the original Casio screen protector (wins hands down so far).
I've seen DIY recipes on the net for other Palmtops, and it looks like overhead sheets is only one solution. The vinyl film they use on windows in the winter is supposed to work as well.
Here's some stuff about Palm Pilot DIY screen protectors. Some concepts apply even to Cassiopeia
I was bummed out when I realized they only sold the Cassiopeia compact flash modem card in Canada and the US. I heard some talk that I could use a null modem and connect an ordinary modem (mine is not travelsize, but better than nothing). I then heard someone speculate that the Cassiopeia E-100/5 serial cable was non-standard and wouldn't work. What a load of bull! I mean, I haven't tried that model, but I just went on the net to read my mail with the E-15 and my ordinary modem, and I can vouch for the solution - it works! I talked to the Norwegian supplier Casinus first, and they said of course it would work. I'll share my reasoning (if it's flawed, tell me): The connection between your Palmtop and your desktop/laptop is a computer to computer serial connection. That means you have to use a null modem. Since all the CE Palmtops (I think) use the same software - ActiveSynch, it would stand to reason that all the cables would be standard pin assignment null modem serial! That means you have to have another null modem cable or connector to make those two null modem cables into one serial. I discovered I also needed two gender changers to get it to work, but after that it was smooth sailing. I have a standard Hayes compatible modem, and set it to work at 115 200, which seemed to work fine. There are other drivers available for CE, but the selection isn't that big. Standard is easier, I guess.
That's exactly what we need! Although I don't have the time for the administration, we could use a Cassiopeia only webring. Any volunteers? There are lots of E-100/5 pages out there, and a few stale E-11 pages. Count me in if you start a webring. Right now there's a Palmtop webring, but I think we could have one of our own?
I was curious if note taker could convert from something else than Word. Turns out it can. I'm guessing it'll try to set conversion to the closest thing to Word as ActiveSynch installs, but if you go to Mobile Devices, highlight your device and go to Tools, File conversion you'll be able to choose. Go to device to desktop, and find Pocket Word dokument. Highlight and click edit. There are lots of options. One of the best in my opinion is Rich Text format, because it works on virtually anything and any program. If you don't have Word, consider that option, because it makes your documents very portable.
I found a template in Note Taker I really liked. The To Do template is good for writing a list of things to do on a particular subject, like a web site. Especially if you're going to print it out later (for someone else?).
The templates start out zoomed to 200%. That's too much for me. I prefer 100%, and have modified Note Taker. My problem is that I can't modify the note portion of Tasks. The default templates can't be changed, and unlike Note Taker you can't change what template opens automatically.
I always write what I want to be the file title along on the first line. The I just press OK when I'm done - the file automatically has the right title.
If you connect to the internet to download your mail, you can't delete it (empty the deleted items), unless you're connected to your mail server. I really would like to do that regardless of mail server connection or not!
If you've opened one contact and figured out you need to put the address under private instead of work... Well, in the beginning I rewrote the whole thing - stewed! Couldn't find the edit menu. I've since found out ctrl c and those other commands work with the virtual keyboard. There are separate characters for cut, copy and paste with Jot, so if you master those (paste is a bit tricky), you can copy and paste no matter where you are.
Synchronize first, then edit files on stationary or laptop PC - unless you're adding new files.
I changed the name of a directory in Note Taker after I'd synchronized it. I discovered the big PC got confused over the name change. Had to do some fancy maneuvers to get it right both places.
I set the PDA to suggest two different words when I use Jot. A lot better! What I've also found out, is that there's a dictionary that gets added to as you use it. I realized that because I sometimes use Norwegian. The little bugger will actually remember your spelling mistakes, so don't trust the dictionary!
Since my main use of the PDA is a place to organize my ideas, I don't have much use of all the extra programs a lot of people use. Exactly what you need a PDA for will impact how much memory you'll need. Although I intended buying a Compact Flash card, I realized that as long as my user files are only weighing in at around 500Kb - there's no need unless I need it for backup purposes. Say if I took a long trip without a laptop, and still had lots of new files or ideas on it. If both batteries drained all user data would be lost!
This page was created by Ann Elisabeth Nordbo
and has its home at http://www.annelisabeth.com/
Updated 12.26.2004
Premier issue October 26th 1999