Iliad Newbie Questions

[HarryT]

I am seriously considering buying an Iliad, and have a few basic questions which I hope someone can answer:

1. Reading the Iliad web site, I get the impression that, in order to upgrade the firmware, one connects the Iliad directly to a LAN and downloads the software directly to the Iliad from the Internet. Is that correct? It's not transferred from a PC? Does that imply that the Iliad has a standard ethernet connector on it?

2. How about transferring, say, books to it? Can that be done directly from a PC? How are files transferred from a PC? Via special client software, or does the Iliad simply show up in Windows as an extra "drive" which you drag files to/from?

3. What do you actually get with the Iliad? Charger? Case? It's slightly confusing on the web site what is an accessory and what's standard.

Thanks for any replies!

[VillageReader]

1. Yes. In my case, I actually connect direct to the DSL modem and bypass the home network entirely.
2. To transfer books to the main memory you use the computer and copy to it just like you would any drive. To transfer to an MMC or CF card, you put the card in a reader and transfer from the computer to the card.
3. Iliad, charger and, I think, a short LAN cable. No cover unless something has changed.

[HarryT]

Thank you - that's very helpful.

[tribble]

Originally Posted by HarryT

1. Reading the Iliad web site, I get the impression that, in order to upgrade the firmware, one connects the Iliad directly to a LAN and downloads the software directly to the Iliad from the Internet. Is that correct? It's not transferred from a PC? Does that imply that the Iliad has a standard ethernet connector on it?

The iLiad has a built in WiFi and an Ethernet connector on the supplied Hub, that you can connect directly to your iLiad. This way you can download the updates directly from the internet.

Currently you cannot upgrade the firmware via the PC, but a reflash from CF tool is being implemented at the moment, so you can upgrade to a newer firmware via CF card aswell.

2. How about transferring, say, books to it? Can that be done directly from a PC? How are files transferred from a PC? Via special client software, or does the Iliad simply show up in Windows as an extra "drive" which you drag files to/from?

There is a "Companion Software" available, which lets you backup and sync from a Windows XP machine to the iLiad via USB.
I have almost never used it.
Bad thing is, that the mobipocket desktop software doesnt work with Vista aswell.

You can just plug into your PC and it will show up as a drive, so you can transfer files easily to the internal memory. CF, MMC and USB can not be accessed this way. You need a card reader for transfering data to them.

Another method is the tcp/ip connection to the computer. Its sometimes difficult to get running, but then you have a hotfolder on your PC, where you can copy files which get downloaded on the next connection (wireless or wired)

3. What do you actually get with the Iliad? Charger? Case? It's slightly confusing on the web site what is an accessory and what's standard.

In the box is the iLiad, a USB cable, the hub for connections, a wall charger with a few different plugs and the Stylus.

You should get yourself a cover with the iLiad. The shoulderbag is good enough for transport and protection. It has a thick plastik plate to protect the screen.

Thanks for any replies!

I have lots of fun with my iLiad. Hope you will have the same pleasure.

Best Regards
Tribble


I have lots of fun with the iLiad.

[HarryT]

Thanks Tribble - that's extremely helpful. I notice that the UK dealer for the Iliad is only a few miles away from where I live. I think I'll give them a ring on Monday and see if I can go and see one "in the flesh" before buying.