Messages

31

Gemini PDA - General Discussion / USA Phone & Data Networks

« on: July 08, 2018, 06:26:13 pm »

USA Phone & Data Networks: Which ones work or don't work and why...

There is much consternation herein with USA phone carriers / data networks services that are or have become incompatible with the Gemini 4G WiFi device.

That is because the Gemini is UNCERTIFIED by them. Certification is an expensive nuisance. One Planet Computers is not (Yet, if ever?) able to invest in.

The reality is that some Gemini backers on networks like VERIZON, which are known to restrict and hobble their SIM chips so that settings like APN cannot be changed, and more... are less than fully functional.

Such is the sorry state of this backer's Gemini use - SMS / TEXTS are sometimes sent, other times not. Since the latest firmware update, SMS / texts are now not received when they are sometimes sent.

LIST OF USA NETWORKS:

1. VERIZON = serious problems with calls and / or text messaging.

Your input about Verizon is welcomed.

Info about other USA networks that work 100% is welcomed.

Thank you.

Ifanafi

P.S. I am minutes away from pulling the SIM from my Gemini (writing it off as a loss) and resurrecting my factory-reset Samsung Galaxy S5.

2. AT&T - I am using an AT&T SIM Card and added the Gemini (booting Android as shipped) to my data account, and data acquisition has been fine.  I even used it while traveling in a car for a Zoom conference and found that I was able to follow the conference presentations on the Gemini but I used my iPhone for the voice link.  I have also streamed Netflix nicely on AT&T for short periods on the Gemini.  I live about 30 miles from NY City so there is full coverage.

32

Gemini PDA - General Discussion / Official Gemini PDA User Guide

« on: July 04, 2018, 08:36:38 am »

Guess I'll just wait to the end of the month.  Seems unfair that after spending $599 USD on the device, we won't get the user guide - they should at least make the .pdf available to the original backers.  

pdtpoet

33

Gemini PDA - General Discussion / Official Gemini PDA User Guide

« on: July 03, 2018, 04:19:55 pm »

Planet has announced the Official User Guide as a perk for 26$  on Indiegogo.
What do you think about that?
My opinion:
1. Yes, a user guide.  
2.Why is there no pdf version.  
3. 26 $ why isn't it free for us as backers?  

The User guide will be sent free to backers - to quote the latest Planet Computers Update - " We will be shipping the paperback edition user guide perk to backers end of this month."

Pdtpoet

34

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

« on: July 03, 2018, 04:16:48 pm »

Anyone else care to comment on the relative ruggedness, Psion 5mx vs Gemini PDA?

While the Psion LCD just has a plastic film for cover, the Gemini has Gorilla Glass, which, while it might break more easily, should protect the actual display quite a bit better. As a Psion screen both slides and folds, its ribbon cable is prone to breaking. Since the Gemini only folds, I'd guess its (two) ribbon cables won't wear out as easily.

When closed, the keyboard-to-screen hinge of a Psion slides inside the device, which probably protects it a bit more in case of a drop.  If dropped when open, I'd guess a Psion and a Gemini has similar odds of survival, depending on how they'd land. Since a Gemini is a tad lighter (my kitchen scale says 307g with the rear camera addon), it would impact with a tad less force than a Psion, but just a tad.

Speaking of the rear camera, it is protected by a window, made from what seems (to me) to be plastic, which presumably would scratch quite easily. As it's stuck on with double-sided tape, it's likely possible, but perhaps a bit messy, to replace, shoud spare parts become available.

For anyone considering the add-on camera, I'd say a case is neccesary, lest I'm wrong, and the window is actual glass, but until we know for sure, I'd say use a case. Should that make frequent use of the Gemini too cumbersome, then perhaps ironically, frequent users might better stay away from the add-on camera (at least until we know how it fares without a case). For what it's worth, I keep my main "umpteen times a day" phone in a case that requires two steps to retrieve or insert it. I find that quite tolerable, but that's just me.  

While my PC Gemini case was silly snug at first, I'm happy it was. Being actual leather, it does stretch a bit over time. While my (also leather) Psion slipcase soon got so loose that the Psion would easily fall out of it, my Gemini case now seems to be just righ; easy enough for me to apply or remove, but with no risk of the Gemini falling out if it. For me, the PC case feels "just right". No case wouldn't feel good, and a larger case would make my Gemini too bulky for my pockets.

The add-on camera has made a slight hump in the case, just where the PC logo is, as I'm always inserting my Gemini that way. So far, the inside fabric of the case seems to keep the camera window clean, though that might change once enough grease has rubbed off inside the case. Time will tell, I suppose.

Thank you for the considered reply, Daniel
Pdtpoet

35

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

« on: June 23, 2018, 10:03:36 am »

I am using the Planet Computers leather case, and find that the Gemini PDA + case together fit nicely into a jeans pocket and easily slips in and out of it.  The case also adds corner protection and so I feel more secure using the combination.

My Psion 5mx also used to live in a pants or blazer or sweater pocket, but the Psion is a much more rugged machine, in my opinion, than the Gemini PDA.  I dropped my Psion many times without a scratch resulting (although the AA batteries would invariably go flying off somewhere and have to be retrieved.  I am very concerned about the relatively delicate screen and innards of the Gemini compared with the Psion.  

Anyone else care to comment on the relative ruggedness, Psion 5mx vs Gemini PDA?

Pdtpoet

36

Gemini PDA - Hardware / AT&T in USA - How to access 4G LTE and eSIM

« on: June 11, 2018, 03:34:35 pm »

Hello,

Just for others information around AT&T service in the US.   If you purchase a new sim and use it for the Gemini you will more than likely be only able to see 3G on the device due to AT&T not updating this in there database.  The solution that I did was simple take an old iPhone 5 that I had laying around and put its IMEI number in my account on the AT&T webpage.   Reboot the Gemini and 4G LTE is available.  Easily 4-5X faster with speedcheck.  Once the sim is mapped for a registered 4G device, you simple put it in the Gemini and off you are running.  Hope this helps others, I was fighting this battle for a while.

Thanks
Ishman

Thanks very much for the tip!!  I'm still getting 4G with the new SIM card, though.  Haven't checked the speed though.

pdtpoet

37

Gemini PDA - Android / AT&T in USA - How to access 4G LTE and eSIM

« on: June 07, 2018, 09:36:13 am »

Kudos to Planet Computers! They responded to my support questions on this topic in hours (considering the time difference, even more remarkable)!

Here is the reply which I received from Eric:

"To enable 4G LTE, you should navigate to the Settings - More (under Wireless & networks) - Mobile networks and enable Enhanced 4G LTE Mode. This would also be affected based on coverage around your area.

You can check if your Gemini has eSIM by looking at the back of its box. If it has 2 IMEI numbers listed, then it would have the eSIM module. If there is only one IMEI number and empty space after it, then that would be an X25 model which doesn't have the eSIM chip."

So the "enable Enhanced 4G LTE mode" is on and the wi-fi is off and I am having no problem streaming 4K videos. (I have excellent AT&T mobile coverage in my area).

One cautionary note from the company for us in the USA on the use of the eSIM capability "LTE works on both the eSIM and the removable SIM card module. However, you might currently still struggle finding a consumer carrier network which supports eSIM. It's a very new standard that most carriers still haven't made public."

I commend Planet computers on the speed of their support replies.

38

Gemini PDA - Hardware / AT&T in USA - How to access 4G LTE and eSIM

« on: June 07, 2018, 09:29:36 am »

Kudos to Planet Computers!  They responded to my support questions on this topic in hours (considering the time difference, even more remarkable)!

Here is the reply which I received from Eric:

"To enable 4G LTE, you should navigate to the Settings - More (under Wireless & networks) - Mobile networks and enable Enhanced 4G LTE Mode. This would also be affected based on coverage around your area.

You can check if your Gemini has eSIM by looking at the back of its box. If it has 2 IMEI numbers listed, then it would have the eSIM module. If there is only one IMEI number and empty space after it, then that would be an X25 model which doesn't have the eSIM chip."

So the "enable Enhanced 4G LTE mode" is on and the wi-fi is off and I am having no problem streaming 4K videos.  (I have excellent AT&T mobile coverage in my area).  

One cautionary note from the company for us in the USA on the use of the eSIM capability "LTE works on both the eSIM and the removable SIM card module. However, you might currently still struggle finding a consumer carrier network which supports eSIM. It's a very new standard that most carriers still haven't made public."

I commend Planet computers on the speed of their support replies.

39

Gemini PDA - Hardware / AT&T Wireless data - Improved spontaneously from 3G to 4G in 24h

« on: June 06, 2018, 07:51:55 pm »

Yes, today my AT&T data reception suddenly improved from 3G to 4G, for unknown reasons (I made no attempt to modify software or Sim card).

Also, today Planet Computers put out a press release regarding the eSIM capability in the Gemini - see link below:

https://pressreleases.responsesource.com/ne...-on-gemini-pda/

Let's inquire of Planet if they can help those of us in the US with the 4G device to access LTE.  Would that be possible?  If any of you have been successful in obtaining an AT&T LTE signal using this method please post on how to do it.  In the meantime I am asking Planet directly.

40

Gemini PDA - Android / Has anyone managed to get a 4G or 3G connection to Virgin in the UK?

« on: June 06, 2018, 08:22:05 am »

I only got 3G or No Service at first on Virgin.

Here's what worked.

Go to Settings > SIM cards.

Switch it to CARD 1 under each entry of: Mobile data, Calls, and SMS messages.

Now 4G no problem!

Thanks, but all us Americans know you Europeans have the best phone service!  Mine always improves when I go on an English or German network.  Therefore, unfortunately, we can't compare access.

41

Gemini PDA - Hardware / AT&T Wireless data - why can't we get LTE?

« on: June 06, 2018, 06:55:01 am »

It's a bit better on T-Mobile, but still not exactly "modern".  

I dealt with this problem with my old LG F3Q phone.  Like the LG, Planet didn't
exactly pick a chip with the respectable support of frequencies used in the US
so there are a lot more places where those frequencies just aren't recognized.

Sucks to have a brand new phone and be plunking along on 3G.   :/

Here's hoping they come out with a GeminiMX with a proper chipset and a real
camera, backlit keyboard, etc etc.



Good luck,

PJS

Thanks for the reply, PJS.  Doesn't sound very hopeful.  I was hoping for a software fix.  Would it be possible for Planet to modify the e-SIM so it could accept LTE?

Pdtpoet

42

Gemini PDA - Hardware / AT&T Wireless data - why can't we get LTE?

« on: June 05, 2018, 04:07:43 pm »

My iPad can use AT&T wireless data through LTE and has for years.  I live about 30 miles from New York City in a well-populated suburban area.  
This morning I purchased a micro-sim from AT&T and added it to my family data account (LTE) and successfully inserted into the Gemini micro-sim slot.  When I powered on the Gemini with the SIM card installed, only the 3G signal showed.  I can access data with the Gemini over 3G, but (as anyone) would prefer LTE.

The Planet Computer website suggests that LTE should be accessible.  Is anyone else in the United States with a Gemini and AT&T data account able to use the LTE?  Is there some setting I failed to address?  I am not tech-conversant so that is possible.

Any input would be appreciated.

43

Gemini PDA - Android / ATT 4G LTE

« on: June 05, 2018, 01:34:27 pm »

Seems like I should be able to get this because ATT shows 4G LTE coverage in my city/zip; and the Gemini supports the required frequencies/bands. However, when I am at the lock screen it shows "AT&T - NO SERVICE" and when logged in shows 3G.

I've checked all the APN settings (and tried them all), have Enhanced 4G LTE Mode on, etc. but no joy!

Any ideas?

I'm in Australia, so can't comment on ATT supported frequencies, but the specs on the Indiegogo page for the supported frequencies is wrong. For example, on the basis of what the Indiegogo page states, I fully expected the Gemini not to support 3G at 850MHz, but it does.

This app might help you:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?...ed.ltediscovery

Similar lines, but way prettier pictures:

Code: [Select]

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wilysis.cellinfoThere is a free version too, but who wants adds when you're searching out faint cell signals?

I am in New York with excellent AT&T coverage (LTE for iPhone and iPad) and Gemini PDA will only access AT&T 3G(!) any possibility Planet can help?

44

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Gemini PDA glitches - US English version keyboard

« on: June 05, 2018, 08:24:03 am »

You should have an app installed called Gemini Keyboard.  (On the desktop screen, swipe up from the bottom to see all your apps.)  From there, select Preferences, and you'll see an option for ‘Vibrate on keypress’.

I have a UK Gemini, which has @ printed below the ‘K’ key.  (The symbols on the front, sloping faces of the keys show what you get if you press them while holding down Fn — but if you were a Psion user, you'll know that already :-)

If that doesn't match your US keyboard, you should be able to change that in the Gemini Keyboard app.  (There are also related settings in the main Settings app -> Languages & input -> Physical keyboard — I don't know which one you're supposed to use.)

Andy - thanks so much for your help.  I now have a US English keyboard  which is vibration-free.  Cheers! And (so far) I am loving the device size and keyboard.  Also have not yet inserted a sim card.

45

Gemini PDA - Hardware / Gemini PDA glitches - US English version keyboard

« on: June 04, 2018, 05:39:29 pm »

Hi! I'm new to this device but I was a devoted Psion 5mx user until they abandoned it.

I live in the United States, in New York State, about 30 miles north of New York City.  I ordered the Gemini PDA April 9 (order #6---) and it came today.  On unboxing I charged the battery and attempted to log into my Google accounts, but the @ key which is usually shift followed by the number 2 key only provided me with an apostrophe.  I had checked for keyboard updates and my version was current.  After hunting all over the keyboard I found the @ attached to the K key, and could type it after pressing the sequence Fn followed by K.  This is how it has remained mapped so far.  That seems to be the only glitch as I am not a computer techie and only joined this forum to learn about the new pda.  

Typing is actually easier than on the Psion 5mx, and I had no problem using the space key on the PDA (old Psion problem).  However, I tried to turn the vibrations off on the keyboard and was unable to do so.  Can anyone tell me if they are also having a strange mapping of the @ symbol to any key other than the 2 key?  And also how to turn off the vibrations when I press a keyboard key.  Thanks very much.