Siemens ME45 Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing & Performance

Introduction to Siemens ME45

The Siemens ME45 was launched in 2001, marking an era where mobile phones were starting to become more than just communication devices. The ME45 stood out during its time due to its rugged design and robust feature set, aimed at users who required a reliable device for both everyday use and more demanding environments.

Design and Build

The Siemens ME45 was well-known for its durable construction. It had dimensions of 109 x 46 x 21 mm and weighed approximately 99 grams. The device was designed to withstand rugged conditions, featuring dust and splash resistance, which was somewhat rare for mobile phones at that time. The use of durable materials ensured that the phone could survive in challenging environments, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Display

The phone featured a monochrome graphic display with a resolution of 101 x 80 pixels, displaying up to 7 lines of text. Monochrome screens were common at the time, and while they may seem limited compared to modern displays, they were highly effective for displaying basic information clearly, even in direct sunlight.

Network Capabilities

The Siemens ME45 was equipped with GSM 900/1800 bands for 2G connectivity, allowing it to function across many regions around the world. Supporting Class 8 GPRS, the ME45 could handle basic mobile data, which was used primarily for WAP 1.2 web browsing. Although limited compared to today's standards, it provided primitive internet access.

Battery Performance

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion 840 mAh battery. It offered stand-by times ranging from 60 to 300 hours and talk times from 100 to 300 minutes, depending on network conditions and usage. The long battery life made it a practical choice for users who needed a reliable phone throughout the day without frequent recharging.

Memory and Storage

The Siemens ME45 did not come with expandable memory options but featured an internal storage system capable of maintaining a phonebook with up to 500 entries. Call records for 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls could also be stored, which was adequate for the needs at that time.

Sound and Alert Features

The phone supported vibration alerts along with downloadable monophonic ringtones. A composer feature was available for users to create custom tones. However, it lacked a 3.5 mm jack but included a loudspeaker for hands-free communication.

Communication and Connectivity

For connectivity, the Siemens ME45 provided an infrared port, which was used for data transfer with compatible devices. Other modern connectivity options such as Bluetooth, WLAN, GPS, and USB were not present, as the technology was still in development for mobile phones during that era.

Additional Features

The Siemens ME45 came with several useful features including an alarm clock, stopwatch, and a few built-in games. Although it lacked Java support, these features enhanced the usability of the phone for everyday tasks.

Durability and User Experience

The ME45 was designed to be rugged and durable, appealing to users in harsh environments. Its robust build and practical features offered reliability and functionality, ensuring the device could meet the demands of its users across different conditions.

Legacy and Impact

Although discontinued, the Siemens ME45 left its mark as one of the durable phones of its time. Its emphasis on robustness and reliability set the stage for future phones designed to withstand challenging environments, a trend that continues in many modern smartphones.

Conclusion

The Siemens ME45 remains a notable example from the early 2000s, showcasing the innovation and design considerations of its time. While technologically limited by today's standards, its ruggedness and practical features made it a favorite among users requiring a durable and reliable mobile device.