After living with and using a $400 calendar, also known as the palmOne Tungsten T5, for three months, I have a few thoughts to share. First, the calendar and contacts software is excellent and extremely easy to use. I have had absolutely no issues syncing either with Outlook.

beyond the calendar

One important reason I finally bought a PDA is palmOne’s inclusion of a WiFi card for free. Although surfing wirelessly is a joy when a hot spot is nearby, the fucking browser crashes more often than Billy Joel. Additionally, palmOne should build WiFi into the handheld. While the WiFi card connects and works fine, it sticks out of the PDA making it rather awkward to slip into a pocket or bag. Ideally, the next generation of product will have both WiFi and WiMax built in.

In contrast to the buggy browser, the included email client, VersaMail, is fantastic. Reading email on the handheld is easy, complements of the bright 320×480 color display. Composing or responding to email is not so pleasant. However, Graffiti is better than other systems like predictive text input schemes used on mobile phones.

synchronized swimming

The number of options for syncing the PDA with other computers is excellent. I normally use Bluetooth, which works flawlessly. PalmOne really nailed this part.

sweet toys

A key strength of handheld computers is expandability. Several software companies have written various applications that run under PalmOS. One I find particularly handy is the Wine Enthusiast Guide, an excellent and reasonably comprehensive database of wine that makes choosing and managing wine remarkably easy. Unfortunately, I have not had much spare time to search out other cool applications. Any suggestions from PalmOS users in the peanut gallery are welcomed.