PalmOne VIIx Wireless Handheld
by Palm

List Price: $199.99
Our Price: $87.50
You Save: $112.49 (56%)
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Buy Used: from $11.50 (click here)
Category: CE
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Digital product summary information

• 8 MB RAM, 4 times the memory of the standard Palm VII handheld
• Stores thousands of addresses, appointments, to-do items, and memos
• What's in the box: Palm VIIx, Stylus pen, AC adapter, PC serial port, Hotsync docking cradle, Protective leather cover, Palm Desktop software

• Sanyo Eneloop AAA NiMH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries (4 Pack)
• Targus PA870U Universal Wireless Keyboard

Digital camera reviews of PalmOne VIIx Wireless Handheld

Digital camera Review: A Product You Can't Live Without!!!
Summary: 5 Stars

In the past, I tried several different paper-based organizers. While useful for a short while, they eventually ended up in what my husband calls the "Personal Organizer Boneyard". Either they were too bulky, or didn't have enough space to write longer notes, or were limited in terms of their ability to be upgraded. Upon entering graduate school, I knew I would need something that would last. Furthermore, with my travel schedule, I needed a device that would allow me to maintain contact via email.

I initially was reticent about spending such a high amount for an organizer, especially given my history of rapid disposal. What I have learned, however, is that the Palm is so much more. I use it daily, which is more than I can ever say for any of the paper-based organizers I owned. I believe this has been a function of the ease in upgrading the unit, which I have been able to do using various free and shareware downloads and the HotSync/Desktop software.

Aside from how well it has worked for me to personally organize, the wireless internet feature of the VIIx has been a godsend. I have never had a problem connecting, even when visiting family in northern New England. While some may be concerned that the availability of "web-clipping" apps rather than a full-browser is limiting, I find that the ability to locate small pieces of information, such as my email, traffic information and the nearest Starbucks, is more than sufficient. The only downside to the wireless feature is the PalmNet service. Unfortunately, PalmNet is the only game in town. As such, the lack of competition will continue to drive their service and pricing behavior until additional firms providing the same service enter the market.

Although newer Palm models (the m500 and m505, I believe) offer the ability to go wireless, neither has a built-in modem like the VIIx. From my estimation, one would need to additionally purchase a modem card, which does not make these newer, lower-up-front priced models such a bargain.

If you are trying to decide between going for the Palm V or Vx, or one of the newer models, and the VIIx, go for it and spend the extra money. It will be worth it!

Summary of PalmOne VIIx Wireless Handheld

The Palm VIIx handheld has had its memory bumped up to 8 MB (from only 2 MB in the original Palm VII), and it includes all the practical features we've come to expect from Palm--the easy-to-learn (and use) Palm OS, a sharp screen with contrast-variable backlighting, and infrared beaming of information.

But it's the wireless connectivity--and the ease and quickness of installation and connection--that really makes the Palm VIIx shine. You'll first need to add the Palm VIIx's two AAA batteries, which are also used to charge the modem's internal, rechargeable ni-cad battery. It takes about 70 minutes to fully charge the device. But that'll give you time to play around with the other Palm apps or practice your Graffiti writing skills.

Once charged, we simply flipped up the radio transceiver antenna (which also turns on the screen) and connected to the Palm.net network in seconds. Then we set up our account and chose a monthly service plan--which reminded us that wireless ease doesn't come cheap. These plans range from $9.99 for 50 KB of information downloaded (and $0.20 per additional KB) to $44.99 for unlimited usage. The Palm.net site estimates that 50 KB equals about 150 downloaded Palm screens of information--which isn't that much if you're doing a bit of online shopping or checking of sports scores.

The other important factor to remember is that you won't be able to view the entire Internet. The Palm VII connects only to certain sites that offer Palm Query Applications (or PQAs), which send Web Clippings instead of HTML. These Web Clippings are specially configured minipages that minimize both display requirements (to fit on the Palm VII's screen) and bandwidth usage. Thus, while we weren't able to view the day's English Premier League scores on Soccernet, we could read headlines at ABC News, get driving directions with MapQuest, and check airline flight status using Travelocity. (The Palm VII comes with 22 Web Clippings, but you can download more from www.palm.net/apps--from Merriam-Webster's online dictionary to a Starbucks locator.)

E-mail was a snap using the included iMessenger app and the Palm.net e-mail address that we set up. This account won't hook up with an existing POP account, but there are several good third-party apps on the market that you can install to grab e-mail from your regular accounts.

Ultimately, the Palm VIIx--and persistent wireless connectivity--isn't for everyone because of its online limitations to proprietary Web Clippings. But with a lot still in its favor--the robust Palm OS organizer environment, hassle-free activation, quick connection to the wireless network, easy e-mailing, and good nationwide coverage (featuring about 260 major metropolitan areas)--the Palm VIIx handheld is still king of the wireless jungle. --Agen Schmitz

It comes with integrated hardware, software, and wireless communication service so you can activate it right out of the box. The included HotSync cradle allows you to quickly back up and exchange information between your handheld and your PC. The display's enhanced technology makes it easier to see at all angles, in dim light, and in bright sunlight. The Palm VIIx also includes a carrying case to protect your handheld from scuffs and scratches.

What's in the box

• Palm VIIx
• Stylus pen
• AC adapter
• PC serial port
• Hotsync docking cradle
• Protective leather cover
• Palm Desktop software

*Note: The Palm VIIx WIRELESS FEATURE CAN NO LONGER BE USED if you don't already have a palm.net account.

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