The Visor Prism runs on a 33MHz Dragonball VZ processor by Motorola and
sports PalmOS 3.5.2H. PalmOS 3.5 support infrared connections from a data port
which is built into the side of the Visor Prism. This enables users with say
laptops to synchronize their Visors on the go, without the need to set up all
the cables that would typically be necessary.
Additionally, if
more than one person has a Visor, the infrared port can be used to
transfer data from one handheld to another
seamlessly.
The PalmOS 3.5 also supports a list of very
handy applications for the 'geek' on the go. Those applications include: Advanced date book with
integrated to do list, scientific and business calculator, world clock (in
full colour no less), address book, memo pad, mail, expenses, out of the box
Mac compatibility, built-in microphone, and enhanced security
features.
Impressions
Speaking from the point of view of one of those
people who rely almost exclusively on post-it notes the HandSpring Visor Prism did manage to
impress me with its usefulness and expandability via the Springboard expansion
modules. In fact, soon after I had my hands on the little blue devil
I was fully synced and ready to
go.
The Graffiti style of writing took about a day to get
the hang of (we're talking basic letters and
numbers), but I did find some recurring difficulties with a few letters
that were written quite similarly. Other than that the switch from paper to digital
note keeping and appointment making was quite
smooth.
Although the usefulness of a portable device that is difficult to read in
the outdoors is a bit suspect, the Prism's usefulness indoors was easy to
measure. Sadly though, if on a lunch break at the park on a sunny day and an
epiphany strikes you will probably be better off writing down your thoughts on a
piece of paper.
Overall I would have to say the Visor Prism makes quick work of some many
daily chores that is really is a time saving device and a wondrous tool of
organization. The HotSync feature - a staple of all PalmOS devices - is so
intuitive that there is little the user has to do to ensure data is safely
stored on a desktop PC.
For the geek on the go, or for anyone who leads a truly
hectic life, a device like the Handspring Visor Prism is a welcome assistant.
And as a bonus, you can play Tetris while pretending to look like you're working
diligently.