simple handheld/pda

cool, so the user-replaceable battery isn't such a big deal, then? in that case, bob, would you still recommend the zire 31 or do you have a preference for another brand/model?

thanks so much for your feedback!

If nothing else but to explain why. As you may see, this drops many prospective models off the list.

Here's an idea. Most of the Dell Axims and Ipaqs have batteries (although proprietary) that you can remove and replace. My RX3115 has such. I doubt I'll replace it ever since a new PDA in 5 years will be amazing.

A parting shot is that I think if you consider Pocket PC, then wait for the death of the 2003 OS. I find that OS rather annoying.

Bob

it seems like being able to remove the battery myself (if needed) is quite a bit easier than having to send it somewhere for replacement... but if keeping it charged will maintain one battery for 5 years, its not that big of a deal, right?

i definitely don't want to limit my options, so i'm open to anything.

thanks for your help!

wow... thank you so much.

to answer your first question, when i say retrieve email, i mean downloading my messages from outlook... i don't need wi-fi for that, right?

i am definitely interested in mid-range PDA's, and you're now the second to recommend the Zire 31... can you tell me more about it from your perspective? cnet.com seems to like it fairly well.... are there any other models/brands you might recommend?

plus, what is the typical lifespan of a handheld? in general, are people upgrading pretty regularly? (this will be my first one.)

i can't even tell you how valuable this forum is...

thanks again,
julie

It's either the 1 second 4 foot drop to the pavement or many many years. The PDA is not bullet proof and some will not survive in your back pocket either. The years the PDA depens a lot on the owner.

The Zire 31 does most PDA things well and the screen isn't too boring plus you can do interesting things with it. The size is about right.

If we move to the iPod then there are do it yourself battery replacements for those that want to do that. Look to see if the iPod has some rudimentary PDA functions for you.

Bob

''When i say retrieve email, i mean downloading my messages from outlook... i don't need wi-fi for that, right?''
Correct. All you'll have to do is place your PDA in the cradle and sync it. WiFi is only needed if you want to sync your PDA or browse the internet wirelessly.

For your needs, I think the Zire 31 would be your best option, and a steal at $129.
* The 16MB of internal memory is plenty for storing your contacts, maintaining a calander, and taking notes.
* The fact that it has a SD memory card slot enables you to store large quantites of music on various cards, and pop them in when ever you want. (You could even designate each card to be a different genre.)
* The color screen enabled the viewing of photos (though low-quality) and, believe it or not, makes it easier to find/navigate programs.
* The 200MHz processor is more than sufficient for your needs.
* The 3.5mm stereo jack enables you to use any pair of headphones you currently have.
* It has built-in capabilities to sync with Microsoft Outlook, and the optional ''Documents to Go'' software bundle can allow you to access your MS Word, Excel, and Powerpoint documents on the go.
* Palm is currently giving away a free MP3 kit if you buy a Zire 31.

However, if you would like more power and more features, you might want to consider a mid-ranged PDA. In that case, have a look at:
* The Palm Zire 72 doubles the quality of the display, doubles the built-in memory, features a 312MHz processor, and even has a built-in digital camera with voice recorder. Plus the Documents to Go software is included. However, expect to pay $249 for this feature-packed mid-ranged PDA.
* The Palm Tungsten E2 only has a 200MHz processor (same as the Zire 31, but it has the latest version of the Palm operating system. While it lacks a built-in camera and voice recorder, it makes up for it by adding a peripheral connector...great for adding an external keyboard. It is also priced at $249.
* Finally, if you want to venture into the PocketPC (Windows) realm, check out the Dell Axim X30 High. Although it's considered old, and is about to be retired, it still makes the Palms look like kids toys. It features a 624MHz processor, 3.5'' color QVGA screen, WiFi, Bluetooth, 64MB RAM, 64MB ROM, an SD memory card slot, and a user-replacable battery. It is the best-valued PDA currently available, especially sondiering that the processor is the fastest on the market. However, it may be a little outside your price range at its sale price of $297.

As far as life span, it's a huge variable. I still have a couple of old organizers (note I didn't say ''PDA''), which are going on 8 years old. I also have an old Cassiopeia (running Casio's own OS), which is around 5 years old. Each one has been dinged up, suffering short drops and even a few drop kicks. But, they aren't made like they used to be. Todays units, while much more advanced, are also much more fragile. Dropping a current PDA will probably result in a cracked screen...AKA death. Tat's why its important to keep it in a protective case when not in use, and make sure you are reasonably careful with it. You should also do things like use a screen protector, for while it may slightly reduce the quality of the image, it will prevent damaging scratches that are inevitable otherwise. (Caused by dirt being dragged by your stylus.)

There's also another aspect to it, though...life of the technology. Companies currently come out with a new line of PDAs every 6-8 months, making your old unit appear obsolete. However, your PDA will continue working, most new software will still be compatible, and your warrenty will still cover any problems you may encounter. While my old Cassiopeia can't run Windows Mobile, Pocket 'Office,' or most modern programs found on Handango, it still can perform its tasks, and there's still a small group of people developing software. Thus, the PDA you buy now will still be your friend four years from now, unless you find a new friend between now and then.

Hope this helps,
John


P.S. I'm glad you like the Cnet community. It truly is a nice, friendly place where you can obtain technical assistance at a very reasonable cost. If you ever need help, feel free to come here and ask...there's always someone here to help.