The Azbooka N516 has the same basic hardware as the Hanvon Handybook N516, but its better firmware makes a better, if still average, eBook reader. For instance, unlike the Hanvon version, the Azbooka has basic eReader functions like a dictionary and search functions, as well as support for basic ebook formats like mobi, epub, and FB2 which the original model lacks. It even has an elementary text to speech function, something generally only higher end eReaders had in 2009.
The Azbooka N516 has a power button, volume up and down, page up, page down, and 10 numbered menu keys along the left side. It is mainly of plastic construction, with a rubberized molding which makes it less "slippery" to hold. The device comes in six colors: white, red, black, red, yellow, green, and purple. The reader works with menus in Russian/Ukrainian Cyrillic script.
Onboard memory is limited at 512 MB, but the Azbooka N516 can accept SD and SDHC cards to expand memory. The unit does have a basic mp3 player and headphone jack, and unlike the Chinese original, this model has speakers and a microphone. We did notice from the specs that the Handybook's operating temperature only runs from 0F to 90F, whereas most eReaders function up to around 95-110F. This is probably not a a major concern, but something to keep in mind if you were using this outside in a hot environment.
The Azbooka is supported by version 0.2 of Openinkpot, open source firmware, which has gradually improved over time--for instance recent versions have added PDF functionality.
Azbooka is a Ukrainian company which exports the N516. The unit is the European export version of the N516 produced by Hanvon (or Hanwang Technology Company as it is known in China). This model debuted in July 2009--the hardware for this eReader is also used for the Woxter Scriba 150.
Connecting: Unfortunately, the Azbooka has no wireless connectivity capabilities, despite being a rather new eReader. You need to connect to your computer via a USB 2.0 cord to transfer ebooks and other files to the eReader.
It takes 2 hours to charge via AC wall socket, or 4 hours via USB.
Accessories: The unit ships with a protective cover, USB cord, and a AC power adapter. We're unaware of accessories for the Azbooka N516 ebook reader.
Price: The Azbooka N516 retails in Ukraine for about $230.
The Ukrainian Azbooka version of the Hanvon N516 is surprisingly improved on the original given better firmware.
eBook Reader Basics