The portable computing world
Mike Revers
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We live in a world today that is constantly on the move and on the go.
This has created a new line of portable devices, which are both powerful, and convenient. There are many on the market — everything from full-blown laptops to small devices that aren't as powerful as a pocket calculator.
But there are some noticeable front-runners, and there are some fantastic things on the horizon that promise to be "must-haves" for all of you out there who are techies.
The most successful and probably the most recognized handheld computing device is the palm pilot from 3Com. The newest version out right now is the Palm VII ($450 plus $25 monthly for the service) which has a built-in cellular modem, allowing for its users to quickly connect and download information to the device from anywhere that they can receive cellular access. However, another product that 3Com has just come out with, the Palm IIIc ($450) has also caused some attention, as it is the first color device that 3Com has ever produced. Though, beyond a color interface, the Palm IIIc doesn't have anything new to offer
The palm device, although successful, is not the only portable choice for consumers. There is a new device, based on the palm operating system, called the Visor from Handspring.com that was created by the founders of the palm pilot. This new device is just as reliable, yet it has an expansion slot on the back of it, which allows for the addition of special "Gameboy-like" cartridges. This might mean that you could buy games, more memory or even a global positioning device if the need be.
The most attractive thing about this device is the price. At a mere $150, it is cheaper than both of the latest versions from Palm.
Nevertheless, for the student budget, I would recommend one of the older palm pilots like the Palm III, which is pretty competitive with the handspring, both in cost and functionality.
The combination of organizers and other services, such as cellular telephony or Internet access, is becoming the hot trend in portable devices. This, coupled with the new technology of smaller size but larger storage, will allow portables to see new development in the market. I think that we may see the portable market create devices that are almost Star Trek or Star Wars in nature, where you can watch television, make a phone call and trade your Internet stocks from one portable device. So this obviously will beg the question, "Do we really need all of that?" Well, like most answers you get at Notre Dame, it depends. Those who are constantly on the go, like consultants and salespeople, might find great use in these devices. But I believe that it would be nothing more than an expensive toy for the average person.
The main benefit that many of the organizers give the user is alleviating the need to carry around lots of memos and papers stuffed into a leather binder. Most of the devices allow you to place them into a cradle-like device that connects to your computer and synchronizes the schedule and memo functions with your notes that you might type into the computer or receive through e-mail. But the new devices being offered that combine the newer cellular technologies and services are really what are on the cutting edge for personal digital assistants.
With all of these devices coming on the market, the consumer must be educated about which one is the best buy, so as not to be ripped-off. In all honesty, by the time you finish reading this column, another device will be offered with newer features — and probably for a lower cost. Therefore, you must always stay up on the special deals and the special discounts that the individual stores or Internet retailers might be having. The old caution of "buyer beware" still rings true with the purchase of a PDA, but the advice that you should take from this is don't get caught up in the hype. Buy what you will need and use, not something that is going to be a toy. I personally have a Palm V and use it for my calendar, memos and contacts, which is all I needed. Decide what you personally need before you surrender 300 or more of your dollars.
The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
All Scene Stories for Monday, April 3, 2000
