2. Simple, But Limited

At first glance, the PMA 400 looks exactly like its predecessor - the same solid design, the same multimedia applications, the same accessories (charger, USB 2.0 cable, remote control, base station and cables for TV connections). Physically, the screen is a little larger than that of the basic AV 400. A protective case containing three styli has been added to the accessories.

When you turn it on, the screen icons comprise video, music, photo, Explorer, AudioCorder, VideoCorder and other options. So where's the PDA? Look at the upper right of the screen. You'll see four new tabs. By clicking on them, you'll call up - from left to right - productivity Applications, games, settings and documents. Don't expect too much - this isn't a Pocket PC, after all. There are only a few standard applications: a text editor, PDF document viewer, calendar, address book, Web browser and e-mail application, plus seven small games.

Fortunately, Archos has chosen Qtopia, the Linux distribution from Trolltech, as its operating system. So it's possible to install new programs. Also, Archos and Mophun are supposed to develop some more elaborate games. You'll have to pay for them, though, if you download them from Archos' Website (www.archos.com ). In the Settings tab, there is a program-software packages- to install new applications.