Switch to Verizon XV6800

I've been a Verizon Wireless customer for many years now. I've also been a Windows Mobile user since the days of the old Pocket PC and Windows CE devices. I went ahead and upgraded to the new XV6800 and I'm happy so far.

Here are the main reasons why.

Compared to the old Treo 700wx running Windows Mobile 5:

1. I can save $15 each month for a cheaper unlimited data plan ($29 instead of $45).
2. I've loaded a custom ROM that includes Windows Mobile 6.1 and this gives me much better Internet browsing capabilities and several other useful features. Want to know how I did it? See below.
3. Much faster processor.
4. Much more internal RAM.
5. Larger screen.
6. Built-in GPS (only available if you load the custom ROM described below)
7. Bigger, better keyboard.
8. Smaller size and no antenna sticking out (not by much, but it still counts).
9. Mini-USB connector and charger.
10. Bluetooth 2.0 vs. the older 1.2

Those are the top 10 reasons why I went for this upgrade.

So what do I miss about my old Treo 700wx? I miss the one-handed operation. I could hold that phone and press the keyboard buttons using one hand. Now with the XV6800, to type on the keyboard, I really need to use two thumbs. Also, the Treo seemed to have better screen visibility outdoors.

So how did I load the custom ROM for the XV6800? I will refer you to these sites:

http://www.phonenews.com/how-to-add-gps-to-htc-mogul-xv6800-p4000-titan-2663/
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=371314&page=1

I'm currently running the DCD 2.3.2 ROM for Verizon. The instructions may seem a bit complex, but you just have to have some faith and go for it! It reminds me of the old days when Compaq would release ROM updates for the old iPaq 3600 models. Some of those ROM updating attempts would 'brick' the iPaq and turn it into a dead paperweight.

To get the internal GPS to work (only works with custom ROMs):

1. Go to Settings -> Phone - then click on the Services tab -> Location Setting and set to "Location On"
2. Allow Windows to manage the GPS automatically
3. For Google Maps, set the GPS settings to be set by Windows (not manually to a specific COM port)
4. For Windows Live Search, set the GPS to "GPS Intermediate Driver" at the bottom of the list.

To learn more about using the GPS on this phone, take a look at this:

http://forum.ppcgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=17032

Career Lab

I recently found this interesting resource for those interested in pursuing non-clinical opportunities and careers. It's called Career Lab. I haven't had time to look extensively at all the different articles posted on the site, but this one caught my eye:

Career Transition Flow Chart

Looks like they provide some comprehensive consulting services to help you secure the right career opportunity. If you need some guidance and don't have time to do extensive research, this service might be beneficial for you.

Executive Health Programs

I was on the plane the other day thumbing through the airplane magazine. An article on Executive Health caught my eye. More and more concierge-type Executive Health programs are emerging in this country. Cleveland Clinic, Duke, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, UCLA, Mass General - these are just a handful of some of the programs that are out there.

So, if you're rich and you can afford this type of care, what's wrong with that? These programs often include luxury spa treatments, relaxation sessions, lengthy counseling with clinicians, and a very personalized touch to medicine. Resort-style accommodations. No waiting rooms. Comprehensive exams. Add a game of golf (integrated golf package offered by Duke and others), swim in the outdoor pool, and get daily massages. Maybe you'll be eager for your next colonoscopy if it takes place in a resort and you get a relaxing massage before the procedure.

Busy corporate executives often don't have time to sit around waiting rooms, but should they get a $3000 visit to a luxury resort for their physical? The other aspect that I find interesting is that certain programs include full body CT scans as "add-on" options (offered by the Cleveland Clinic among others). Such scans may be more harmful than helpful - but why not offer them to rich executives since their companies are paying for the bill, right?

Namesake: Dr. Joseph Kim

Doctor Joseph Kim
Gastroenterology
U.P. Digestive Disease Associates, P.C.
Upper Peninsula Medical Center
1414 W. Fair Avenue, Suite 250
Marquette, MI 49855
Undergraduate: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI - BA
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee WI - MD