7. Filestore & Backup: Standard Data Backup

The iPAQ H1940 allows the user two options for backing up important data or programs, with either an optional SD/MM card as storage media or with the so-called iPAQ Filestore.

The iPAQ Filestore is a subdivision of the internal ROM with a maximum of 14 MB that is available for data backup. The advantages of the iPAQ Filestore are obvious: because the storage is in the ROM, its contents are not lost even after the device is completely reset or when the battery dies. Probably the most serious disadvantage of iPAQ Filestore is that if the user loses the PDA or it is stolen, the important data in the ROM are lost forever as well. For this reason we recommend that important data be backed up on a memory card from time to time and kept in a safe place separate from the PDA.

HP provides a corresponding program, iPAQ Backup, for backing up data. A closer look reveals that it is the tried-and-true data backup tool "Pocket Backup" from Sprite Software.

This means that data and programs can be backed up - if desired - with a timer or according to the battery status.

iPAQ Backup: Even an automatic backup is possible

Testing

THG determines the performance of the devices with a PDA benchmark developed by one of our cooperating partners, PC Professionell Deutschland. It measures CPU and 2D graphics performance. The battery life is also determined with this benchmark. In the process a stylus entry on the display every 30 seconds is simulated with a test script, keeping the PDA in constant operation. To get comparable values, the display brightness is set at fifty candela per square meter on all devices. If the maximum brightness is lower than this, battery life is calculated at the brightest setting.