Pros: Small footprint, pleasant aesthetics, large memory, robust
Cons: Non-existent upgrade path, cover can fall off, lacks raw speed (and multitasking)
The Bottom Line: Buy this if you want a simple but effective PDA - but if you want to do anything more than self-organisation, you may wish to look at a Compaq iPaq...
The Palm m105 is quite a nice little machine, all things considered. It's small, versatile, quite sturdy, and seems to run my life considerably better than I can. It even functions as a watch, thanks to the porthole on the cover which allows easy access to the clock. Unfortunately, it also has a limited lifespan, thanks to Palm's decision not to bring out ANY form of upgrade, software or hardware, for the m105. In any case:
How easy is it to enter data into this PDA?
There are a number of ways that you can enter data with this Palm:
1) External Keyboard - Geek factor 10, but allows for speedy input
2) Graffiti - Using stylus and handwriting recognition - slow, but steady if you bother to learn the more "efficient" writing style
3) HotSync - Fast to type, slow to transfer - But not really an input method you would commonly use (because otherwise you'd do all your inputting on a PC, duh!)
On average, I can manage (sans keyboard) to write at 20 words a minute, and I'm a reasonable writer, so it should work out for beginners, but it may take a little while to learn a new script (not to mention write in a target area about an inch square).
How easy is it to sync this PDA with a computer?
Easy:
1) Attach provided HotSync port to computer.
2) Place (provided) Palm m105 in the cradle port
3) Press the HotSync button on the cradle
4) Twiddle thumbs for 5 minutes whilst everything is transferred (less twiddling time if you are lucky enough to own a USB port, however)
HotSync-ing is a piece of cake, though beware - if either the Palm or your computer crashes, things can go haywire - requiring a reset of both. Shouldn't happen often, however.
Is the screen easy to read in sunlight and in the dark?
In sunlight, the screen, although pixelled and, unfortunately, black and gray (and zzz boring), is easy to read. The standard systems fonts might be miniature, but at least they stand out quickly. The backlight is easily activated (just press the power button), and provides ample light for reading in the dark (without significant power drain - a useful thing for reading e-books on aeroplanes when the lights are out). Some opinions suggest that the screen is too small (30% smaller than a Palm Vx, or so I hear). This isn't the case - the smaller resolution hasn't affected what I see on this screen, and I'm as blind as a bat. The screen is also (largely) shatter-proof - although don't "experiment" with it by playing frisbee. Also, the screen is largely scratch proof too (if you use the stylus, that is... Pens/pencils/knives do NOT make good input units - but then you should know that, right?).
What kind of internet service is available for this PDA?
Thanks to Palm, no modem (currently) is available for this PDA. Which means that the only Internet access you are going to get from this machine is through your HotSync connection. Palm at least provides you with the software to do this - AvantGo, which allows for offline browsing of web pages. Palm also provides a free mail program, so that you can balance your inbox on the commute to work. If you work, that is.
Where do you carry this PDA when you're on the move? In a pocket or a bag?
In my pocket - it creates a slight real estate problem, but that doesn't really worry me, I've got quite a small phone. This little machine can be carried anywhere though - it would sit quite happily in even the smallest purse. Just watch out for the front cover - it can come off quite easily - and the clock viewing panel can become easily scratched.
Summary
All in all, this is a good little entry-level PDA. The software is functional, but limited (Alarm, Datebook, Notepad, To Do, AvantGo, Mail). The upgrade path is just limited. In fact, non-existent. Some features of this model are nice - the clock viewing panel, the small size, the large memory. On the other hand, some features are more annoying - such as the slowness of the HotSync speed (unless you invest in a USB cradle). In any case, this machine is a good choice for neophyte PDA users - as it is reasonably cheap, does quite a good job of actually being an organiser (as opposed to a palm sized Cray, which some people expect of it). On the other hand, those who crave power/Microsoft domination had better check something like the Compaq iPaq. This Palm might be cute, but it needs some serious processing power to catch up with the iPaq.
But then again, you get what you pay for. A handy little machine on a budget.
8 MB memory--stores thousands of addresses, phone numbers, appointments, and to-do items Includes HotSync serial cradle to back up data to your PC or ...More at Amazon Marketplace
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