as a frequent traveller i needed a device primarily for watching video. when i saw the wifi capabilities of the 604 i was sold, as i don't like lugging a laptop everywhere i go.
my first impressions of the 604 wifi were very positive. the screen is bright and clear, although it is best used indoors. the touch screen interface is very intuitive and the menu options clear and concise. i was most impressed when the 604 played all the videos i had on my PC straightaway. creating your own copies of DVDs is PC-time consuming, but with the help of the archos forums easy to do. watching a movie is a joy on the screen, i'd say much improved from using a video iPod.
i also like the picture viewer. as i like to show off pictures from my travels to anyone that can't say no quick enough this device is ideal. the screen format means viewing pictures is almost like flicking through a stack of prints.
the wifi works, but not with all systems. i have not found a way to configure a network that is not broadcast, for example. but if you find a broadcast network setting up a connection is easy, with some, but not all security protocols supported. [support form archos has so far failed to materialize in trying ot connect to a particular security standard at my place of work.]
the browser is a basic version of opera without javascript or flash, but good enough for browsing news sites or checking mail. the screen format again is a bonus, and the browser does a good job of re-siziing a page to fit the screen.
i'm not sure about the security of the device when using wifi, i guess the standard precautions need to be taken, but without the possibiity of anti-virus of firewall. but then it is not an UMPC, it is a PMP.
for music on a daily basis i still use my phone as the 604 is too chunky to take running or cycling. but that is not what i bought it for. as a travel companion for watching movies, listening to music, checking your email, staying up-to-date with the football scores or tormenting friends with holiday snaps this device is ideal.
you could ask for more storage space, but i've found it enough to keep me entertained on my travels.
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(+) Great screen quality and size, built in speaker and stand. (-) The only downside is that it is fragile, and can be hard to get used to the on screen keyboard.
The ARCHOS 604 is the perfect companion for people on the move: its 30 GB* hard drive ... more
capacity allows you to store up to 130 hours of video5 encoded with a PC, the equivalent of 85 movies5. Play them on the built-in 4.3" LCD color screen or playback on...
Postage & Packaging: Free! Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
The ARCHOS 604 is the perfect companion for people on the move: its 30 GB* hard drive ... more
capacity allows you to store up to 130 hours of video5 encoded with a PC, the equivalent of 85 movies5. Play them on the built-in 4.3" LCD color screen or playback on...
Postage & Packaging: £4.39 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
May 3rd, 2007
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