Ups and Downs of Portable Multimedia Players (PMP)

The Portable multimedia players took a giant leap forward and changed our everyday lives. The latest tendency is to combine different advanced technologies and functions in one device. PMPs are not out of the rule! The modern user is comfort prone being, so he (she) is not likely to think twice to take a multi-functional device or a bunch of uni-functional devices.

What makes PMP so attractive?

What makes PMP attractive is plenty of accessories and functions it supports. PMPs are actually appreciated for storing and playing files of different media formats. They are also referred to as MP4 Players as they can display pictures, play video and audio files.

Then comes compact and sleek design along with easy-to-use interface. The ability of PMP to be both a portable and static device makes it so popular with the users.

Components

Memory. The data is stored on a hard disk or on flash memory. Hard drives for storage can reach up to 80 Gb.

Display. Portable media players usually have a 4:3 ratio screens. This is rather inconvenient when it is about wide screen movie playback. PMP usually features colorful LCD or OLED display.

Power. The device is powered by internal batteries, which last from 4 to about 8 hours. Some devices are provided with non-removable battery. This might be an issue in the long run. This is why devices with removable batteries are more appreciated.

Remote Control. Most of the PMPs come with remote controls (infrared). It will be easier for you to control the device as you do it with a DVD, DVR or TV.

Multi-functionality
PMPs are able to store and play different formats of video such as MPEG, DivX, XviD and SMV; audio including MP3, WAV, and Ogg Vorbis; digital images formats such as BMP, JPEG, and GIF; and interactive media including Adobe Flash and Flash LITE.

Besides playing, PMPs have the ability to record video and audio. Portable Multimedia Players are equipped with slots for flash memory cards (SD, MMC, etc.). This allows you to store audio, video, and photos while you shoot them.

Some of the best portable media players

• Samsung Yepp YP-T8 has the ordinary capabilities of a PMP. Some characteristics to be distinguished are voice recording, FM radio, and line recording.


• Apple 5th-generation iPod is also considered a portable media player, because of the capacity to play back audio as well as display digital pictures and video.


• The Sony HMP-A1 was released only for Japan and Europe. What is attractive about this PMP is its long battery life. HMP-A1 also includes a USB host capability which allows you to link up to other portable devices without using a PC.


• Creative Zen Vision:M is able to play both audio and video, to record voice, to pick up FM Radio. It is equipped with larger enough displays, which come in two variants (2.5" to 4" respectively).


• MSI MEGA 540, MSI is the first solar powered player. It was recently launched in Germany.


• Neuros Recorder 2 is focused on recording as well as playing back several audio and video formats.


• More PMPs performing the same functions are: Archos Gmini series, MegaView series, MP4 Star by Intechip Corp., aigo E-858, X2 the Neuros 442, the Olympus m:robe, iStation v43, etc.

Ups:

• Combines many devices in one


• Supports Video / Audio formats


• Battery life is much longer comparing to other portable media devices


• SPDIF output


• Large hard drive storage


• Wireless remote


• Customizable menu with icon-based navigation


• Clear and bright display


• USB mass storage

Downs:

• Design. Inconvenient design and buttons displacement (in some cases). Disproportions of the device components (too small sizes or vice versa).


• Cost. The cost per byte comparing with other portable devices is enormous. Usually costs range from 200$ to 1000$.


• Battery life. Though it can go up to 8 hours, still the relevance of PMPs make people want more from them.


• Some models have no responsive remotes.

Today every tech company seems to get into producing some variation of the portable video players. First of all because there is a demand on the market; secondly because there is little to invent! The recipe is: take a hard disk MP3 player, an LCD display and video decoding/playback hardware, shake it all and you'll get a PMP. Add some rare or unique spices, such as long lasting solar battery, video and audio recording, or larger hard drive and you will get a new PMP product.

It is more difficult to sell a new model of PMP than to create it. First barrier is the price! Then they have to feature some additional components required for video playback and recording. Finally it is a great deal to keep the pace up with emerging competition.

So, sometimes they succeed and sometimes they don't! This is the engine that makes technology go further.