Messages

16

Gemini PDA - General Discussion / Big announcement on 5th November

« on: November 05, 2018, 12:52:07 pm »

Although there will be much griping about the Cosmo not being the ideal device, we Gemini users must admit that our feedback was collected and heard to a significant degree.

I live in New York, and use the Gemini primarily as a productivity device - taking over from my beloved retired Psion 5mx. I finally achieved the typing speed on the Gemini I used to have on the Psion and it was a delightful experience! With the Gemini in Airplane mode the device could last a week! When I wanted to a document to enter any other computer ecosystem, I just activated the 4G modem and sent the material. My one complaint was the lack of a lit keyboard for darkened conference rooms...as I am a hunt-and-peck typist.

Planet Computers had a survey and the number one desired mod was a backlit keyboard. And a second screen. The Cosmo has both and fingerprint detection!

So they did listen. And I am order #329 for the Cosmo.

If we wish to continue to enjoy devices like the Gemini, we need to continue to support Planet. Hopefully, the Cosmo will be acceptable to a wider audience than we early adopters, and Planet will continue to support the devices for many years.

17

Gemini PDA - General Discussion / Cosmo Communicator on US phone networks

« on: November 05, 2018, 12:40:17 pm »

I got an email this morning about the next gen device, the communicator. This will have a front screen and cameras to make it easier to function as a phone. My gemini is wifi only (very happy with it), but I recall reading that certain networks in the US won't let the device function on their networks even with SIM cards, as the device had to be 'approved'. This seems to be a deal breaker for the device as a  phone. has there been any news on this front regarding the device on US networks, such as T Mobile or Verizon?

I live in New York and have an X27 on the AT&T network.  I had no problem activating the Sim or adding it to my other devices on my AT&T account.

18

Cosmo Communicator - General Discussion / The Cosmo is the Gemini we wanted - and Planet heard us

« on: November 05, 2018, 12:36:54 pm »

Gemini users rejoice!

Although there will be much griping about the Cosmo not being the ideal device, we Gemini users must admit that our feedback was collected and heard to a significant degree.

I live in New York, and use the Gemini primarily as a productivity device - taking over from my beloved retired Psion 5mx.  I finally achieved the typing speed on the Gemini I used to have on the Psion and it was a delightful experience!  With the Gemini in Airplane mode the device could last a week!  When I wanted to a document to enter any other computer ecosystem, I just activated the 4G modem and sent the material.  My one complaint was the lack of a lit keyboard for darkened conference rooms...as I am a hunt-and-peck typist.  

Planet Computers had a survey and the number one desired mod was a backlit keyboard.  And a second screen.  The Cosmo has both and fingerprint detection!  

So they did listen.  And I am order #329 for the Cosmo.  

If we wish to continue to enjoy devices like the Gemini, we need to continue to support Planet.  Hopefully, the Cosmo will be acceptable to a wider audience than we early adopters, and Planet will continue to support the devices for many years.

19

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Best way to clean Gemini keyboard keys in place?

« on: October 29, 2018, 11:25:33 am »

I could compare ethyl with IPA (Isopropyl alcohol) and I can say the second is better, easy to use to polish the Gemini keys (and many other things), it evaporate after few seconds, isn't toxic and the keys seem less dimmed for some time. Better to use it when it is needed, every now and then.

Salvo

Thank you, Salvo!

pdtpoet

20

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Best way to clean Gemini keyboard keys in place?

« on: October 26, 2018, 01:10:14 pm »

Why ‘without removing them’?

I always remove the keys: it's much easier to clean them, and doesn't risk doing any damage to the important bits.

I use a blob of Blu-Tak to remove them.  Knead it until fairly soft.  Press down firmly on a key to cover it, then lift it up sharply: the key will usually come away with it.

It's a very safe method; I've used it over the years with all my Psions (which have almost identical keyboards), and never done any damage.  You have to be careful with the space bar and Enter keys, as those are attached to metal bars; but all the other keys can be easily removed, cleaned together, dried, and replaced.
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And to confirm what salvomic says:

If for whatever reason you really don't want to remove the keys, then IPA (isopropyl alcohol, i.e. isopropanol) is probably the safest in-place cleaning agent: it's non-toxic, dissolves oils &c, evaporates quickly without leaving a residue, and won't damage most electronics.

This type of keyboard is made by using a laser to heat parts of the black plastic so that it turns white (and expands slightly).  So there's no print to rub off, and it's OK to scrub the keytops (as long as you don't do so hard enough to erode the plastic itself).

(If the lettering goes dark, it's probably due to grease, dirt, and oils from the fingertips.  I think that those can be absorbed into the plastic if left for a long time, so it's probably a good idea to clean the keys from time to time to prevent that.)
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Also, I'd recommend learning to touch-type if you can (though that might be easier on a full-size keyboard).  As well as not needing to see the keytops, you'll be able to type faster and more accurately, and if you're copying something you won't need to keep looking away from it.  You don't need any formal lessons: just rest your hands comfortably with your fingers over A/S/D/F and J/K/L/semicolon.  Work out which finger is most comfortable for each of the other keys (e.g. your left middle finger is probably best for 5, R, D, and X), and then practice typing using only that finger for that key.  It feels strange at first, but it soon becomes a habit.

Andy -

Thank you for providing all the options.  Much appreciated!

pdtpoet

21

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Best way to clean Gemini keyboard keys in place?

« on: October 26, 2018, 01:09:16 pm »

Hello all,

I've been attending conferences where the lighting is dimmed for presentations, and the light is sometimes so dim that the keys which I use most often (in English that would be e, a, s, d, r, t, i c and l) are so dark I can't read them.  I use the hunt-and-peck system.

Can someone please tell me how to best clean the keys without removing them so they are shiny white and reflective again?

Thank you

Pdtpoet

I'm cleaning with ethyl (medical alcohol) but someone said that isopropanol would be better. I'll try.
I don't think something will be removed as the key *should* be laser etched... Also if they are dimmed.

Salvo

Thanks very much for the kind and quick reply!
pdtpoet

22

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Best way to clean Gemini keyboard keys in place?

« on: October 24, 2018, 11:53:48 am »

Hello all,

I've been attending conferences where the lighting is dimmed for presentations, and the light is sometimes so dim that the keys which I use most often (in English that would be e, a, s, d, r, t, i c and l) are so dark I can't read them.  I use the hunt-and-peck system.

Can someone please tell me how to best clean the keys without removing them so they are shiny white and reflective again?

Thank you

Pdtpoet

23

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Gemini PDA - Accessories - Pouches/Covers

« on: October 16, 2018, 09:25:46 am »

Yes, pdtpoet, that IS a nice case.

It would be nice if  an EU-vendor purchases some. If I buy it directly from Taiwan, then Customs would hold it and I would pay another $ 75 on taxes and handling costs. Now, $ 175 is a bit over the top.

Dixit,

Thank you for liking the case.  I have just come back from a workshop where I was finally using my Gemini like my old Psion.  I have to tell you that, in Airplane Mode, after 2 full days of taking notes on Word, I still had 84% left on the battery (I would shut the Gemini off at night).  When the workshop was done, I turned on WiFi, accessed the Internet and was able to put my notes on Onedrive, thus making the notes available on all my devices (laptop, Macbook, iPad, iPhone).  And I believe, for me, typing on the Gemini is easier than it was on the Psion.  

So - if other folks use the Gemini as I do, primarily as a productivity device, I guarantee that they will fall in love with it and spread the word.  Then there will be a Gemini 2 - and there will be lots of nice cases sold by EU vendors.  Fingers crossed.

pdtpoet

24

Gemini PDA - Android / Firmware Update 2018-10-09

« on: October 11, 2018, 01:33:27 pm »

Just applied Firmware Update to my Gemini 4G + WiFi running out-of-the-box stock Android.

All went well.  On bootup language was requested as was Gemini keyboard configuration.  Nothing seems to have been lost.  All apps present.  I don't use the device as a phone, only as a productivity device, so I could not test telephony.  My Sim card worked, though, as 4G was enabled.

Guess it's safe to be a simpleton.

25

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Gemini PDA - Accessories - Pouches/Covers

« on: October 05, 2018, 10:25:40 am »

FOUND - A "QUICK DRAW" BELT CASE SPECIFICALLY MADE OR THE GEMINI PDA

I found one on eBay custom-made for the Gemini - here is the link:  

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Gemini-PDA-Leather...zIAAOSwzFBbREAu

It's perfect for my needs, as it is thin and unobtrusive but very protective, and has a "quick-draw" configuration with a magnetic clasp and a pocket for the "cover removal tool" - it is expensive, but so is my 4G + wifi Gemini - and I always felt that the Planet Computer leather cover is not very protective of shocks.  

pdtpoet [ Invalid Attachment ]

26

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Any "quick draw" belt cases without metal clips available for Gemini?

« on: October 05, 2018, 09:57:08 am »

Probably not all that useful to you, but I might as well show off my belt holster  
 
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I made it a quarter-century ago for my first Psion, and it held a succession of models.  Since my last one died a few years ago, though, it was hanging empty on my belt.  One reason I was ecstatic to hear about the Gemini!  It's slightly oversized now, but the 5MX was a snug fit.

It's made from a carpenter's (I guess) belt pouch I bought at a hardware store.  The flap was added with some plain leather from a craft shop, and is held closed with some sturdy Velcro.  The belt slots are reinforced above with a small strip of wood bolted on.  All blackened with leather dye.

Perfect for quick access. As you can see from the photo, I have a fair "Utility Belt" -- much more convenient than pockets when riding my bike in shorts as I usually do.,..

Pete - Very inspirational!  Unfortunately, I have no craft skills.  Also, I think it is too big for my needs...even if i could build it.  

I found one on eBay custom-made for the Gemini - here is the link:  
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https://www.ebay.com/itm/Gemini-PDA-Leather...zIAAOSwzFBbREAu

It's perfect for my needs, as it is thin and unobtrusive but very protective, and has a "quick-draw" configuration with a magnetic clasp and a pocket for the "cover emoval tool" - it is expensive, but so is my 4G + wifi Gemini - and I always felt that the Planet Computer leather cover is not very protective of shocks.  

Thanks again,

pdtpoet

27

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Any "quick draw" belt cases without metal clips available for Gemini?

« on: October 04, 2018, 04:54:28 pm »

I have this one, but it is not thin.  It is actually a wallet as well:

https://www.eholster.com/wallet-phone-case-...rge-smartphones

It's on sale right now.  They also have a leather one.

miked1541

Thank you for the rapid reply, but this is actually 'way too bulky for me.  If they just had the phone section alone...

pdtpoet

28

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Any "quick draw" belt cases without metal clips available for Gemini?

« on: October 04, 2018, 09:41:05 am »

I used to carry my Psion 5Mx in a pocket without a case.  But my Psion is definitely a more rugged-appearing and handling machine than the Gemini.  The Psion was dropped numerous times, and all it resulted in was a scurrying around for the AA batteries (which always seemed to pop out as the result of a fall).  

The leather Gemini case from Planet is serviceable and nicely thin, but it still requires 2 hands to pull the Gemini out of the case.  If there were a thin case which flipped open that could be placed on a belt (no clips, just openings in the case back for threading through a belt), then the Gemini could be pulled from that case, ready for immediate opening - a much more satisfying move than with the current case.

Anyone find a case like that in the wild and if so can you let this Forum know please??

29

Gemini PDA - Android / MS Office Apps Won't run?

« on: September 16, 2018, 06:23:48 pm »

I am using the Android version as received.  I did no installations and found both Word and Excel pre-installed on my Gemini.  Tapping the icons opened up each application, and I was able to access my Onedrive files for each application.  There was no need to install the programs, and I found each to be fully functional.

30

Gemini PDA - Android / Which Office App to use?

« on: July 26, 2018, 09:42:54 am »

Which office app do you use?

MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint?

OfficeSuite + PDF?

WPS Office?

Adobe for PDF?

I am a 72-year-old coding illiterate whose first laptop was the HP Portable Plus in 1987.  My Psion 3 and then 5Mx were indispensable to me.  For my consulting work now I use a Lenovo Windows 7 Carbon X PC, an Apple iPad Air, and sometimes a Macbook pro (though the Pro i use mainly for photo postprocessing).  In my work I am sent and use primarily Microsoft Office files.  Since I received my Gemini x27 4G + WiFi in May, I have happily been able to use Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files on the Gemini and all the other computers through my OneNote drive, and to update all those files on the go with Gemini (Android only version).  Google Drive is great, but it gets too complicated for me to use all these Microsoft Office files.  As a bonus I've even been able to participate in webinars using Zoom with the Gemini as the presentation contact device (calling in from my iPhone X).  

So if your work depends on Microsoft Office files, I recommend OneNote.  I feel like I have my old Psion back (in a lighter, thinner, sexier and color version!!)

Pdtpoet