Acer n311

By Sandra Vogel, CNET.co.uk, CNET Asia
Jun 12, 2006

Acer has recently augmented its handheld lineup with the Windows Mobile 5.0-based n300 series. There are two models in the range, the S$399 (US$284.07) n310 and the S$559 (US$397.98) n311, reviewed here. The n310 lacks Wi-Fi, has less user-accessible memory, a slower processor and is supplied without a docking cradle. The remaining features mentioned below are identical in both devices.

Design
Acer's n311 has a functional silver and black case that's distinctive without challenging the design conventions of the handheld format. Measuring 70mm by 110mm by 14mm, it's pretty average in size, but the weight, at 135g, is on the light side.

The 94mm (3.7-inch) screen accommodates 480x640 pixels, which is the highest resolution supported by Windows Mobile 5.0. This resolution is something of a rarity, and the extra pixels add hugely to the clarity of the display. Physically, the screen dominates the device--there's very little spare space on any of its four edges. The small area it does not occupy at the bottom of the casing is taken up by four shortcut buttons and a navigation key in the shape of a mini joystick.

The shortcut buttons take you to the Today screen, Calendar, Messages and Contacts. We have mixed feelings about joystick-style navigation keys, but the one used here is large and responsive. It offers four-directional movement with a press-to-select feature. One drawback with the n311 is the fact that the application shortcut buttons are very close to the bottom edge, making it difficult to use the device one-handed. It's hard to see how Acer could have done better, though, given the large size of the screen.

There is a software-based device-locking feature that's supplemented by a hold button on the left edge of the device. This disables the screen, but allows some functions to continue--music playback, for example.

The left edge also houses the only other side button, the power switch. Unusually, there's no button for launching the built-in voice notes software. On the top edge is a 3.5mm headset jack and a slot for an SD card, while the bottom edge houses the reset hole and mains power/PC connection jack. The latter has a proprietary format, and Acer has not included a converter to enable you to charge or dock the n311 without its cradle. This could prove inconvenient for mobile professionals. On the other hand, the cradle does include a USB connector for using the USB Host features on the device, and a slot for charging a spare battery.

The cradle comes with a snap-on Perspex section that separates the n311 from the battery charging section. It also doubles as a stand, enabling you to have the n311 screen in landscape format when docked. This might sound gimmicky, but in fact this orientation is ideal for viewing diary or spreadsheet information, and may prove useful.

The stylus, which lives in a housing on the upper right edge, is long enough but fairly lightweight. In addition to the cradle and mains power cable, the n311 comes with a USB PC connection cable and a soft, drawstring slipcase. This provides minimal protection, and you will probably want to invest in a more substantial case.

The printed documentation comprises a minimal quick-start guide, with exceptionally small print. A user guide is hidden on the provided CD ROM. We say 'hidden' because its presence is not flagged on any printed material in the box, although one sheet of paper does advise you to visit Acer's Web site for the user manual.

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