Palm 2000
Based on the Cyrix MediaGXi-S 166 MHz processor, with 32 MB of RAM and 1.6 GB hard disk, the Palm 2000 is not a machine for power users. It is, however, an ideal companion for travellers who need the smallest mobile computer available that can run Windows 9x for tasks such as surfing the Internet, e-mail and word processing.
The LCD display is a bit small, as is the font size, even at a resolution of 640x480. 16-bit sound is integrated into the system, with tinny-sounding stereo speakers on either side of the screen.The rear of the unit contains one USB port, microphone jack, line-in, IrDA, headphones and a Type II PCMCIA slot.
The standard package does not include a floppy or CD-ROM drive. A 1.44 MB floppy drive and a 24x Mitsumi CD-ROM drive are present on the optional docking station, which also serves to charge the mobile computer. A port replicator clips on to the rear of the device and offers two PS/2 ports, VGA-out, serial and printer ports. Pointing is by means of a stylus. The handwriting recognition software on the device can be ætrainedÆ to learn strokes or personalised characters or symbols.
With a good set of functions, capabilities and sturdy build quality, this system is suited well for life on the road. If you use standard word processing, spreadsheet, Internet surfing and e-mail, this mobile computer is a good choice. However, the price is way too high for a device that does not feature all drives and accessories.