Psion Series 5MX Palmtop Computer

Psion 5MX been around the handheld industry as long as the rest of the big manufacturers, and they're not changing their large-scale design for anybody. While the latest Psion, the 5mx, looks similar to the Psion 5 (which is in turn similar to other previous iterations), it integrates various internal changes that make it a more powerful machine.

The Psion's large format aims at users who need more power than a Palm-sized palmtop and more portability than a notebook PC. While you won't be using the 5mx in hand that often--it's a bit too bulky and weighs three-quarters of a pound--its well-designed case sits flat on a table or even your leg. And it stays steady while you're typing or tapping on the screen with the comfortable pencil-length stylus. It's also one of the few handhelds anymore to ship with a keyboard, and a very usable one at that.

The Psion can connect to the Internet wirelessly via its IrDA (infrared) port when using specific models of wireless phones or pagers--or via the optional Psion 56 Kbps travel modem. In our tests, PC synchronization worked seamlessly, with speedy transfer even using the serial port interface cable.

Armed with 16 MB of memory/storage (compared to the 8 MB of the Psion Series 5 before it), the 5mx opens applications quickly and multitasks smoothly. It was also refreshing to be able to actually type in our handheld's word processor and e-mail programs, even if we had to hunt and peck for a while before we got used to the smaller keys.

Although the 640 x 240 screen lacks color, text and images displayed crisply in gray scale, and a unique zoom feature allows you to increase the size of the text you're working with to see it more clearly. If you're a Palm lover, you'll be disappointed by the 5mx's heft and bulk. But if you're a user looking to get more out of your handheld PC, this Psion offers near-laptop capabilities. --J. Curtis

Pros:

* Very usable keyboard
* Well-designed case
* Zoom feature

Cons:

* No PC Card slot
* Grayscale screen
* Bulky

Product Description
The Psion Series 5mx is the out-of-the-box mobile computing solution for busy executives and professionals like you. Delivering remarkable speed, connectivity and functionality, the Psion Series 5mx is a leader in palm computing.While the Psion Series 5mx is independently powerful, it also connects seamlessly to your desktop PC creating expansive opportunities for PC synchronization and file sharing. From top to bottom, inside and out, the Psion Series 5mx is your powerhouse to working freely on the go. The fast processor delivers speedy communications so you stay on top of business even when you are traveling. High screen resolution allows you to view full-page width documents, e-mails, and Web pages without horizontal scrolling! All of these features and more in a tiny easy-to-carry device! Infrared technology incorporated into the device lets you send files wirelessly to an infrared printer, or to other 5mx device. High-specification infrared software even allows the beaming of business cards and agenda entries. There is even a digital voice recorder offering 60 minutes of voice recording time so you can record reminders and notes to yourself. The recorder even works when the unit is closed!