Features:
- 8 MB handheld multimedia reader and content player with large, backlit display area
- Download and read thousands of electronic books or documents, or listen to audio books
- Listen to your favorite music in MP3 format
- Write notes in your own handwriting, and record messages in your own voice
- Keep track of your important numbers, dates, and appointments
Description:
One of the main complaints about the first few generations of electronic book readers is their cost--who wants to pay several hundred dollars for the equivalent of a few $3 paperbacks? Enter Franklin's new line of eBookMan devices, available in three different models. We got an early peek at the midlevel eBookMan, which features 8 MB of memory, a sharp 200 x 240 16-level gray scale display, and excellent versatility. In addition to being an e-book reader, the eBookMan also plays audio files (both audiobooks and MP3s), records voice messages, and functions as a respectable PDA. A flip-up cover and hard rubber outer coating afford protection for the device. With a USB-connected cradle, transfers between desktop and the eBookMan proceed quickly. While the eBookMan offers a date book, address book, memo application (using natural handwriting recognition), and voice memo recorder, its main angle is still as a book reader. The large screen and powerful backlight makes reading literature in the Franklin Reader format clear, though the backlight did seem to drain the batteries rather quickly in our demo unit. Ironically, the eBookMan's versatility also draws attention to its limitations. While the unit will play MP3 files, it can only store two or three songs at once with its 8 MB of memory (the top-of-the-line model, the EBM-911, comes with 16 MB). However, if you pick up an optional MultiMediaCard with up to 64 MB of memory, it is possible to adapt the eBookMan into a more respectable MP3 player. While you'll need to spend a little extra to money to get your eBookMan to reach its full potential, the unit's low original cost and variety of applications make it an excellent gateway into the world of electronic literature. --J. Curtis Pros: - Very versatile--PDA, e-books, audiobooks, and MP3s in one device
- USB connection
- Large display
Cons: - Not currently compatible with Microsoft Reader
- Short battery life
- Gray scale only
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