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I have a Wizard (XDA Mini S) and O2's Trion doesn't seem to be to appealing seeing as how much it could cost me (not to mention lock me into another contract).
After poking around on eBay, I see M3100s going for 50 to 150++ and it is very tempting to get one as Kaiser seems far off. To my knowledge the M3100 has autofocus (some like the Qtek one don't?) and I also like the black body and key layout (no other reason for this specific variant).
I am just curious whether or not it's still worth going for one (if I can get it on the cheap) and what is drawing me to the hermes over the wizard (I love the keyboard and the rest of it):
- 3G
- Speed (apparently the samsung can be overclocked?)
- Better camera (Wizard's lack of macro makes it a pain to photograph chip markings)
- Jog dial
The nice to have GPS and FM radio are hard to find and the Kaiser will have a high markup (I am not looking for the latest and greatest right now as I waiting for something newer before I drop a lot of dough). So will the Hermes suit me and will an investment of around 100 pounds be a sound one (is it too much and also seeing as I can unlock it myself...I should have no problems right?)
One thing bugging me is the screen alignment issue but if it's a recent one I doubt it should be there and warranty for stuff off eBay (how do I deal with this?)?
Well worth it
The alignment issue is not persistent in all devices, I've just had my Vario II replaced and there is not sign of it so far (touch wood).
When the issue was there it was bareable...
Also worth baring in mind that the Vario II/ 3100 is still less than 12 months on the market, so it would be under manufacturers warranty = just walk in the shop and let them sort it out....
Personally It's a cracking unit, and if you can get a good deal off e-bay it'll last you a long time.
Personally I wish I'd found this forum sooner as I've been a long time smartphone/ pocket PC owner, there are loads of excellent resources here mate.
UPDATE:
MDA Vario II @ 400MHz (no over-clocking for me thx)
WM6-Professional (CE OS 5.2.968 (Build 17736.0.2.0)
ROM 3.23.0.2
Radio 1.40.30.00
HERM300
I have been looking around a fair bit but I'm a little lost why some eBay sellers say the Vodafone V1605 doesn't do 3G sims. I know it supposedly needs a firmware update to get HSDPA but except that is there any issue with the 3G uSIM?
Has the Hermes really been on the market for under 12 months? It feels like I've seen it around for ages. The one thing pushing me towards the M3100 is the color (really don't want another siliver one) as I said but I can't seem to find a detailed list of differences between the various models (checked wiki and there's no mention of the 3G thing above or for that matter differences in camera if at all).
Funny thing is, I'm normally the type to patiently wait and then buy something but after going on eBay, that patience has vanished...also the numerous v1605 units going on the cheap are pretty tempting. I will also probably end up buying a black silicone case as well so I'm not too sure if the color will be a major issue.
There are no real differences between any of the variants. The camera is the same, the processor is the same, etc etc.
Yes the 3100 is the best looking one. I would go for it.
Thanks for the heads up but the M3100s seem fairly pricey (at least most start high...) maybe I'll strike a deal somewhere...some how. Oh well, keep looking...44 items being watched on eBay
AsGF2MX said:
To my knowledge the M3100 has autofocus (some like the Qtek one don't?)
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No autofocus on either, afaik. It does have the lens slider to switch to macro though.
The camera is "okay". I recently took it on a skiing holiday where it got completely confused with the white balance and all the pictures came up with a very strong blue tint.
In general use, apart from exposure issues when there is high contrast and the flash being near-useless (I'm sure it's mistimed with the exposure), it takes a reasonable picture. Certainly no substitute for a dedicated camera though, imo.
Just got one
Hey i recently[09/04/07] got an Orange SPV M3100 + 2GB card + BT gps + extra screeen protector + cradle + extra battery for 240 quid (pounds sterling) including first class next day shipping off Ebay UK. Unfournately i recieved a unit with the screen allingnment issue and was totally unware about it being a common problem till i read you post... anyways still love the device and if your in a area that recieves HSPDA coverage its well worth it!
Yes black does feel very sleek, compared to my silver vario !
UPDATE [ i am reading the wiki and working on my options ]
arghness said:
No autofocus on either, afaik. It does have the lens slider to switch to macro though.
The camera is "okay". I recently took it on a skiing holiday where it got completely confused with the white balance and all the pictures came up with a very strong blue tint.
In general use, apart from exposure issues when there is high contrast and the flash being near-useless (I'm sure it's mistimed with the exposure), it takes a reasonable picture. Certainly no substitute for a dedicated camera though, imo.
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Aww man, the autofocus thing would be handy but well, macro shots are little important to me and as for dedicated camera, I don't have one on me right now but looking at what some people have taken, I doubt I'll be complaining about it for now. If it beats my wizard, I'm sold.
stryker1355 said:
Hey i recently[09/04/07] got an Orange SPV M3100 + 2GB card + BT gps + extra screeen protector + cradle + extra battery for 240 quid (pounds sterling) including first class next day shipping off Ebay UK. Unfournately i recieved a unit with the screen allingnment issue and was totally unware about it being a common problem till i read you post... anyways still love the device and if your in a area that recieves HSPDA coverage its well worth it!
Yes black does feel very sleek, compared to my silver vario !
UPDATE [ i am reading the wiki and working on my options ]
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Well some of the sellers don't reveal the serials...at least I've had no luck and mind you, I'm trying to score one for under 100 - because I can't just spend and spend (have one wizard housing and silicone case on the way). Based on the fact that all these M3100s/V1605 are supposed to be under warranty, a walk into Orange/Vodafone should resolve such issues, However one thing I am hesitant about is how do I register the phone under my name once I acquire it?
Also does the GPS in the radio chip stand any chance of working? I've seen the the engineering thread and based on the pin setup (the fact that pins are tied to ground and such to disable the GPS portion) of the hermes, it doesn't sound practical but on the other hand I've seen one or two odd posts that it is only a crippled antenna.
Buy it already!
AsGF2MX said:
Also does the GPS in the radio chip stand any chance of working? I've seen the the engineering thread and based on the pin setup (the fact that pins are tied to ground and such to disable the GPS portion) of the hermes, it doesn't sound practical but on the other hand I've seen one or two odd posts that it is only a crippled antenna.
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Got my v1605 for 175 quids, sim-free.
I wouldn't bother too much about the GPS hype, it isn't worth the trouble.. No screen alignment issues for me. Used the stock ROM for a couple of weeks and upgraded to numerous roms since.
Currently on Black v2.0 (WM6) and lovin' it. Yes, the TyTn is indeed a wise choice. I live in an area with full HSDPA coverage and I have since disconnected my ASDL broadband service (HSDPA seems to be wayyyyy faster).
I have push e-mail and other pop-access accounts. This device is indispensable for me as I travel a whole lot.
Cheers from Frankfurt.
175 from where? I know my price point maybe a little low but since it's eBay, I suppoe there's a chance but I do see some of them who have one bidder raise the price 3 times or more in a row (i.e from 50 pounds to 150) and now that bothers me.
AsGF2MX said:
Well some of the sellers don't reveal the serials...at least I've had no luck and mind you, I'm trying to score one for under 100 - because I can't just spend and spend (have one wizard housing and silicone case on the way). Based on the fact that all these M3100s/V1605 are supposed to be under warranty, a walk into Orange/Vodafone should resolve such issues, However one thing I am hesitant about is how do I register the phone under my name once I acquire it?
Hey with regards to the warranty issue, i am gona have a go at it (since i am experiencing the sreen alightment issue). I will message my ebay seller and ask him if he can spare me the original reciept so i can possibly make a warranty claim at a orange shop, dont know if its gona work though.
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Now this is an issue, how does one register a change of ownership of the handset? Well I am looking forward to you updating this thread with what info you get and also what did Orange say?
no reciept
AsGF2MX said:
Now this is an issue, how does one register a change of ownership of the handset? Well I am looking forward to you updating this thread with what info you get and also what did Orange say?
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Sorry the ebay seller wasnt kind enough to send me the receipt or he may have "Lost" it. Did follow the steps of loosening screws and the screen alignment issue is much better now
Hi Guys,
A few weeks ago my Uni started giving the dreaded "NO GSM" error on boot. I ended up buying an Excalibur. I miss my Uni, though!
Anyway, I can't make it talk to a network, but the screen is good (replaced it last year) and the battery is good. The device has... uh... Jwright's WinMo 6 ROM on it, I think... The outer casing is pretty scuffed up due to living in my pocket, haha. I'll take pictures when I get home.
Comes with a UK Charger with a UK -> US adapter (low quality, but works). I think I have the booklet and a spare stylus as well.
Asking $150 or best offer. Hey, I replaced the battery and the screen! Those weren't cheap! lol. Probably best used for parts...
-----------------------
Thanks to anyone who messaged me and sorry to everyone I didn't get back to, but the ol' uni is on its way.
do you have any pics of the scuff marks?
thanks!
yes, my athena x7500 is finally for sale. it just collects dust now so its time to let it go and get myself a touch HD. so if anyone is going from athena to it expect me to cook some roms for it. its in about 8,8.5/10 condition. i bought it used and babied it so almost everything is from the previous owner. the rubber i guess from sitting or just from time on the joystick came off and the camera button also came off. both can easily be replaced for a few dollars. camera can still be used by taking the stylus and sticking it into the hole of the camera button. its just the actual button that came off. screen is mint since it has a screen protector from day 1. have original box, keyboard, cables, the 4 in cable, 2 cases, and a small usb keyboard that u can also get if you like. looking for 600 plus shipping. it has the latest incarntion of my ap rom that never got released. i remember the rom was almost stable but some bugs and lack of time made me stop development.
its going to be sad to see her go but its for the better.
Still for sale?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=2765247&posted=1#post2765247
I suspect shipping would be faster and cheaper if I bought yours. Thanks.
Janis said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=2765247&posted=1#post2765247
I suspect shipping would be faster and cheaper if I bought yours. Thanks.
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still for sale. 650usd plus shipping(to give us negotiation leway)
This seems like a fair price to me. Is it? What hardware issues should I be looking for, common wear/tear's etc?
Thanks guys! This will be a nice (slightly heavier) upgrade from my Blackjack2 and 2125.
superultra said:
This seems like a fair price to me. Is it? What hardware issues should I be looking for, common wear/tear's etc?
Thanks guys! This will be a nice (slightly heavier) upgrade from my Blackjack2 and 2125.
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There's quite a list of things to look out for. Be aware that there are quite a few being dumped on the net because of pretty serious issues. Having said that, there are good ones around.
You should not buy one that:
1
has ever had a white screen or fading screen problem
2
Shows a "No GSM" error
3
has a screen alignment issue (even a minor one)
4
has a slide out keyboard so loose that holding it up to your ear makes it slide out a little (this fault is fixable - but not entirely straightforward)
5
switches completely off from time to time (may be a minor battery contacts fault, but can be cracked solder joints on the battery connector.)
6
has ever suffered from applications closing for no reason or the start menu opening for no reason. (can be a sign of alignment issues or contamination under the screen bezel)
7
ever had charging problems or other issues with the USB socket. This can be replaced but the cost is probably not worth it unless it's DIY
8
a loose stylus is a hassle. Some are so loose they just fall out. I have instructions to fix this but easier to avoid the issue.
Im sure other folk can think of a few other things.
It may be worth buying one that is cheap if the rear speaker or front speaker is not working. The rear speaker is of just a loose connector and is just under the rear casing. The front earpiece speaker can be faulty due to loose spring connector (fixable, but a major dismantle - it can be replaced if necessary with a relatively cheap motorola alternative)
Mike
PS I am not up on current prices. Just the other day someone got one at $120 which was not thought to be a bargain. However with the Hermes, I'd rather pay a few more dollars for one that works ok rather than one that has one of those white screen or alignment problems.
That is a great answer. Thanks very much Mike. I'll post here how it turns out.
thats where i found mine, turned out great. this may not seem like the obvious , but one of the main reasons i like craigslist purchases is that they are usually meet face to face affairs. people that are going to scam you by selling you junk are less likely to do so face to face, at least thats been my experience. I think thats price is fair if its in halfway decent shape.
go for it, not a bad price if specs check out like Mike said...
Picked it up, checked for all issues and asked some questions. Seller was mostly tech-illiterate but I dropped her down to $80.
Thanks so much for the advice all. I'll off to upgrade this puppy!
Excellent! Happy Flashing
So I just received my X1a Xperia in North America from expansys.ca
I have to say it's not what I thought it was going to be for $1,000 dollars.
As soon as I got it, noticed the battery and the charger were removed from their bags.
The actual LCD (viewable LCD display) is slanted on the one side... (The gap between the straight peice of plastc horizontally and the viewable section of the screen is greater on the right side than the left... Kinda miffed about this, it's small but Im neurotic and notice these things...)
The back cover of the phone (not the battery cover) was higher and sharp, and not level wiht the battery covery. After closer inspection, I pushed on it, and it snapped into place (it wasn't fully snapped on during manufactoring I guess).
The Camera button doesn't feel secure, and the optic pad for scrolling is very loose and I'm wondering if it is going to fall off...
THANKFULLY the unit has no cracks, hahaha. Kinda also miffed about the sliding. I'm getting scared how easy it is to pull and have the top seperate from the bottom....
Anyone else have any of these issues? For 1,000 bucks I was expecting a bit more. I thought it may have been a re-pack from expansys, but the factory screen protect was on waiting to be pealed off, and when I started the phone it started the initial WM config stuff.
Is there any way to find out how long the phone has been powered on?
why are you buy an X1a for 1 Grand? That's ridiculous.
why not return it, and get it from buy.com for $720 i think you can even get it at sonystyle.com for $799.
I got my x1a from buy.com and had no problems.
Well
Well, it is possible to check in the registry how many power cycles the phone has had. However, this is only accurate if the firmware has not been reflashed since. I think (but not sure) that even a hard reset will reset this effectively rendering this method practically useless. I have noticed it when looking through with SkTools.
The fact the screen protector is on means nothing about the phone being factory, the screen or covering could easily have been replaced if it's a reconditioned.
This sounds nothing like the real build quality of the Xperia. I'm a perfectionist myself and would notice these problems. My touchpad/scrollpad is perfectly secure, the slide is tight, screen is perfectly aligned, and I mean perfectly. The camera button should have no more than half a millimetre play from front to back when looking at the screen, and none in any other direction, even with a lot of use that is the current condition of mine.
Sounds to me like your phone has been rebuilt or you've been very very unlucky.
That being said, expect the keyboard to become a problem after a couple of weeks, but otherwise it's an amazing phone.
Too bad.
I bought mine 3 weeks ago for less than $550 brand new @ Finland.
Optic pad seems loose on my xperia too.
As for the price. The X1a are more pricey than the X1i due.
I needed the X1a to make sure HSDPA works in North America... I don't really care about the price anyways, I shopped around for an X1a and I trust (or atleast trusted Expansys).
I sent an e-mail off to Expansys to find out if it was B-stock or a repack, I'm waiting to hear from them.
I'm wondering if the battery and the charger were removed from their sealed plastic bags because they needed to test them in another device or something...
The only REAL big piss off is the screen... Even though it's a small issue, the blank gap between end of the display and the plastic peice where the buttons start, the right side is 1/16ths of an inch bigger on the right side, compared to the left side. I'm just wondering if a component of the screen is damaged or misaligned... I don't want it to start bending after a while.
I'm concerned about the warranty too as I'm in Canada. I have 15 days to send it back (at my own expense), I'm not to sure if Sony would warranty a product they don't sell in my country...
Start the return process right away. There's no reason for you to keep that phone with the condition you received it in.
Zhariak said:
THANKFULLY the unit has no cracks, hahaha.
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Well, not YET. Mine got cracks at the stylus hole when I had it for 4 to 6 weeks. Good luck and you should really return it before it is too late =P
Ok, soo quick question...
Ive had 10+ windows mobile devices in my life. Everytime I turn them on for the first time (brand new), it ALWAYS asks you to align the touchscreen.....
The Xperia booted up and had confiuration questions, but what's odd is that it didn't ask me to align the touchscreen....
Does anyone know if the X1a prompted them to align the touchscreen when they first unboxed and powered it up?
Also, anyone know the registry key for turn on and offs?
Yes it should ask you to align the touch screen for the first time. Does the phone look like it's been used??? Just return it...I think Rogers is releasing the X1 for $299 w/ 3 year contract...no?
I bought my X1i for $400 brand new
1k?
rofl ... i paid 100€
u can get it here for 350€ new.
wanna buy mine? 800 Bucks
Wow, so I'm an idiot. It has been powered on...
I wasn't promtped for a touchscreen alignment, AND looking at Call history, 333 was dialed once a few days ago, and 222 has been dialed twice a few days ago. All calls lasted for 30 seconds to 2 minutes...
Anyone know what 333 or 222 could be?
By the way, I want to thank everyone for their help... These forums r0x0r! haha
Anyone know howto reset the phone (all my exchange information is entered), I'm returning it for a new unit...
Just press the two silver keys and simultaneously/after that the Key hidden by the stylus [easily pull out the stylus and put it into the hole in order to press the soft-reset button] ...
Or you turn on youzr device, go to Settings/System/Clear Storage ... enter '1234' and press 'OK'
Kind Regards N0r0
To hard reset:
Hold the two silver keys (under the screen) then press the power button slightly (no more than a second!).
Zhariak said:
As for the price. The X1a are more pricey than the X1i due.
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True, but even at a US Sony Style store the price is $799 US, or $920 CAD. And it can be purchased at other stores new in box for less than that.
As for the warranty, for the X1, Sony will honor the warranty anywhere in the world if you can provide a valid receipt. I called before purchasing my X1i for here in the states.
What's with the hater congregation here? If you don't like it, go sell it and be done with it. No need to spam....
jhendra said:
Yes it should ask you to align the touch screen for the first time. Does the phone look like it's been used??? Just return it...I think Rogers is releasing the X1 for $299 w/ 3 year contract...no?
I bought my X1i for $400 brand new
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nice , mine was used for 360
1 grand is just a FRAUD
Well, that comment about Sony providing warranty service anywhere in the world with a valid receipt is awesome!
I remember once I had to get warranty work done on my Motorola MPX220, and they just wouldn't do it even though it was brand new, hahaha...
I ordered another one, and FedEx is picking up the problem one tomorrow morning.
Super stoked to have another "unboxing" haha. Return department at Expansys even said they would check the stock before shipping to make sure it doesn't have any damage to the box and stuff
sounds like you got ripped off bro