Color in the Palm of my hand
Written: Nov 25 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Color, runs PalmOS, familiar interface, Handspring's expansion cards
Cons: Heavier than other PDAs in its class, can't see screen outdoors, OS upgrades questionable
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| oranjcat's Full Review: Handspring Visor Prism Handheld |
The Handspring Visor Prism was my second choice. The first choice was a Palm IIIc and, as usual, the local computer/office supply store didn't have any in stock (I'll save that for a rant in another location). Since instant gratification was the theme of the day, I went with the Handspring instead.
My previous organizer was a Handspring Visor, which had replaced a Palm III. The Handspring Visor Prism was like more of the same, but in color.
I wasn't expecting a revolutionary PDA experience, and I didn't get one. I'm not trying to slam the organizer; I'm honestly pleased that the Prism was as easy to use as its predecessors with the only major difference being that it now offered a color screen.
No more batteries! The Prism features a rechargeable battery -- its second best feature. I no longer have to worry about minding the battery level. Simply placing the Prism in its cradle at the end of the day, and it's all charged and ready to go when I get up in the morning.
Because the majority of Palm/Handspring units in use are not color, the majority of programs for this operating system are not in color. This will change over time, much in the same way color television gradually overtook black and white television.
The internal battery adds some size and weight to the Prism. It's certainly heftier than the other Palm/Handspring models that are available.
I love the new color display, but it's almost impossible to see outdoors. I tried to check mine in broad daylight yesterday, and I was unable to see the screen without the help of a friend who provided a bit of shade with his newspaper.
Although Handspring claims that the version of PalmOS on their handhelds can be updated via expansion cards, they have yet to produce one for their earlier Visor models. If you plan on using the same PDA for more than 12 months, this could be a problem for you.
On the other hand, that expansion slot sure is fun. I've purchased the camera add-on, and plan to purchase the cell phone card when it becomes available.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 419
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Epinions.com ID:
oranjcat
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Member: Dan B.
Location: Dubuque, IA
Reviews written: 4
Trusted by: 1 member
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