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PRODUCT REVIEW
Master dialup connections with DialupMaster
By Dan Huber
One of Windows CE's most useful features is its diverse range of connectivity options, from standard phone line-based connections, to 10 Mbps wired LAN connections, and even IrDA and RF wireless connections. Because phone line-based connections are probably the most commonly used, especially for common dial-up connections to Internet Service Providers (ISP), you may find yourself wanting more than the standard offerings of Remote Networking.
Peter Koch was aware of this issue and created a product called DialupMaster to add some additional features to Microsoft's own software. With this product, you are now able to monitor your current connection times; speed up access to all of your Remote Networking connections; and use scripts to login to your ISP (a feature similar to that in desktop Windows). There's even an integrated "keep-alive" utility to help keep you connected longer.
Before they were famous…
In an email to Peter Koch, out of curiosity, I inquired about the program's history. He told me that it was originally inspired by the need for a scripting utility that eliminated having to manually enter the information each time he dialed. Peter programs for Windows CE at his workplace and he decided to write the scripting feature.
Later, he wanted fast access to connect to his ISP and added a tray-based pop-up menu to access his dial-up connections. Prospective users spoke of their interest in this program. He made it ready for final release by adding a ping utility (which had been requested), as well as a tray-based online timer, since Peter uses a GSM mobile phone to check email and wanted to watch his connection times to keep costs down.
DialupMaster turned out to be a hit with users, though it was originally intended only for the author. The version I'm going to review is version 1.1, which adds a new feature that eliminates the need to tap connect when you launch a dial-up connection, as well as some bug fixes.
Installation and initiation
Installation of DialupMaster was a simple matter of running a setup utility. The setup utility provides you with an introductory screen to familiarize you with the features and capabilities of DialupMaster. Afterwards, the Application Manager is launched to finalize installation by copying the appropriate file to your device, where installation is completed. This was quick and flawless for me and, as instructed by the setup program at the beginning of the installation, a shortcut to DialupMaster, as seen in Figure A, is placed in the Communications folder, a wise choice in my opinion.
FIGURE A
 
The DialupMaster shortcut is in your Start menu's Communications folder. Roll over picture for a larger image.
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