A hard reset basically means resetting the system back to factory spec. Everything in the main memory--all programs, settings, and data--is wiped out. Sometimes you'll want to do this intentionally if you've got a problem that won't yield to less drastic measures, or just when you want a fresh start. (To initiate a hard reset in the iPAQ, while holding the bottom two hardware buttons below the screen, press the recessed reset button on the bottom; in the Axim, while holding the power button press recessed reset button on the back for about half a second; then when asked if you want to delete all data, choose yes). However, a bad system or software crash and, in the iPAQ hx4700 and the Axim X50V, complete loss of battery power can also trigger a hard reset. When your Windows Mobile system suffers a hard reset for any reason, you'll see this screen:
Those of you with English language systems can simply follow the onscreen directions. Some users of the Japanese system need a little help, though. Thus, here I present the English-language versions of the screens you'll be seeing, with occasional commentary. Tap each screen shot to advance to the next screen, just as you're seeing them on your Japanese iPAQ or Axim. Those of you with newer English OS versions of my system (from March '08 on) will find the screens a bit different--you can skip some things and there are a few extra steps tossed in--but the onscreen directions are clear and you won't have any problems. Tap the screen shot above to begin.