All Palm devices are not created equal. Some are simply equipped to handle more than others, like the HandEra 330. Of course, the cost of the HandEra 330 isn't quite as low as some of the other Palm-based devices, but in this case, you get what you pay for.

Many Palm devices offer the basic PIM features, but for those who like the Palm platform and want diverse functionality, those devices will fall sadly short. So companies like HandEra have decided to pick up the slack. The HandEra 330 includes those standard Palm applications that can run on the Palm OS 3.5.2, including Date Book, Address Book, Mail, To Do List, Memo Pad, and HotSync.

In addition to these basics, however, the HandEra supports CompactFlash cards, Secure Digital (SD), and MultiMediaCards. Those familiar with mobile technology probably already know what this means: expandability and options. HandEra users can increase memory, applications, and multimedia files with the simple addition of a card. Other important features come standard on the device. An internal amplifier and speaker will play .WAV files and ensure alarms and alerts are heeded, while the microphone records those all important notes-to-self.

The screen on the HandEra 330 is also an appealing feature. Perhaps the most interesting element is the unusual, bright blue-green backlighting, which helps tremendously in the dark. The 240 x 320 QVGA high resolution screen has an active area of 2.2 x 2.9 inches. Even more useful is the fact that the graffiti area at the bottom can be downsized, so the full screen can be used for viewing. With special applications, the screen image can also be rotated 360 degrees for better viewing.

Besides the touchscreen for navigation, the HandEra 330 has three dedicated on-screen icons for system control, one user-configurable on-screen application launch icon, four user-configurable quick launch application buttons, three dedicated function keys, and a jog wheel and auxiliary button for one hand operation. It is powered by a 33MHz Motorola DragonBall-VZ processor and includes 8 MB RAM and 2 MB Flash.

The HandEra 330 is 4.7 x 3.2 x 0.7 inches and weighs 5.9 oz with the AAA batteries, or 5.4 oz with the optional lithium-ion batteries.

Pricing and Availability

The HandEra 330 is currently available for $350.

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