Handspring Visor Somersaults Over Palm

Handspring's Visor is the best PDA to come down the pike since the Palm itself--not much of a surprise since the team behind the original PalmPilot created it. The Visor mimics the Palm's size and shape as well as its OS, so I was able to use all the software that works with my Palm IIIx. I tested a preproduction unit.

Where the Visor differs from the Palm, it almost always outdoes it. The datebook offers three views that the Palm doesn't provide (weekly, annual, and appointment list), the calculator adds advanced functions, and the HotSync cradle's USB connection moves data approximately four times faster than the Palm's serial hookup. The Visor's approach to expandability is impressively elegant: The top back of the device comes off easily, exposing a small bay that accepts plug-in modules about two-thirds the size of a PC Card. (Installing expansion cards on a Palm III, IIIx, V, or VII means fiddling with tiny screws.) Handspring itself will deliver memory, backup, and golf game modules at product launch; other modules, including a music player, a wireless modem, and a GPS unit, will be available through Handspring's Web site later this year. The only thing I like better about my Palm is the flip-up cover; Visor's cover snaps off and is too easy to lose.

Visors will be sold only through Handspring's Web site through year's end. The $149 Visor Solo is attractively priced but lacks a sync cradle, a serious drawback. Entry-level users are better off paying $30 more for the basic Visor with 2MB of memory. It's still a great deal: The basic Palm IIIe costs $229 and accepts no expansion cards. The $249 Visor Deluxe has 8MB of memory (like the more expensive Palm IIIx), and its case comes in iMac-inspired translucent colors in addition to gray. Happy Palm IIIx, V, or VII users have no cause to switch. But owners of earlier models may find Visor Deluxe a very versatile upgrade.

SUMMARY

Visor PRO: Runs Palm applications, attractively priced, easy expandability, color case options. CON: Snap-off lid easy to misplace. VALUE: Great deal for entry-level users, Deluxe model makes appealing upgrade if expandability matters. Street price: cradle-less Solo model $149, 2MB standard model $179, 8MB Deluxe model $249 Handspring 650/230-5000 www.handspring.com