ARTICLE: Gadgets for 2003

Ready for some unplugged toys?

The computer industry has been playing around with "palm," "hand' and "pocket" devices for a few years now. What is it that we want to carry around with us anyway? Some of the tools below - maybe offer something worth "holding" on to! That is - if their price tags haven't burned a hole in your pocket.

T-Mobile Sidekick
We'll start slow and easy. This "do-it-all" gadget is just a little more expensive than your basic cell phone. It includes a full keyboard, cell phone, PDA, wireless access for email and AOL Instant Messenger. This slick device was ranked #1 in Entertainment Weekly. If you're already using both a PDA and phone - why not trade those in for one easy-to-use "Sidekick?"

Samsung A500
If all you need, and would ever want is a great cell phone - then try Samsung! A stylish, easy-to-use flip phone also has a sharp and colorful screen. If your business communication relies heavily on a cell phone - you might as well go for the best!

Sony DCS-TRV50
A digital video recorder and camera in one! With a little practice and tips from the experts - you can product great looking digital photos for your web site. Then put the recorder to work next time you rent out your property for a wedding or family reunion! This particular model is highly packed with features - including zoom lens, large viewing screen and the ability to connect to the Internet! Connection to the Internet requires a little help actually - from a compatible Sony cell phone with wireless capability.

TiVo DVR Series 2
In those rare moments when you sit back and take in some quality TV programming, this little "box" will take your viewing to another level. With the TiVo, it IS possible to avoid commercials and search for programs much like you browse through your computer. If you happen to have a favorite TV show - with the TiVo you can arrange recordings of future showings.

i-Pod
If you haven't heard the term MP3 - let me make an introduction. For years you've saved your letters, forms and many other items in a computer format called ".doc" For music files saved on a computer or CD, they appear in MP3 format. The I-Pod is another superbly designed device from Apple. Many of you have maybe experienced the instability of trying to play a CD on a portable CD player. Now you can save your favorite CDs and songs on an I-Pod which weighing only 6.5 ounces is easily portable and provides better listening too! It comes in 3 different models - with the deluxe one saving up to 4,000 songs! If you're wondering how one browses through a menu of that many songs, Apple as usual has a smart answer. A "touch wheel" lets you easily circle through the menu!

Sony CLIE PEG-NX70V
We reviewed the CLIE handheld earlier - and Sony continues to produce a great device scoring high in providing speed and functionality. This particular model is top of its line with built in digital camera, and a voice recorder for those of you who like to playback your "to-do" list for the day! It's a little pricey - but if you need a digital camera AND a PDA then it's not a bad deal. In ZDNET's Christmas review - it was rated as "the most capable--if not the most compact--pocket computer on the market."

PEG-SL10 B/W CLIÉ™ Handheld
Then again - if all you need is a PDA - you can opt for the basic model for a cool price of around $130. And still enjoy good Sony design!

Dell Axim X5
Dell is a well-trusted provider of PCs for many innkeepers. They've done a great job of producing a compact PC as well! The Dell Axim includes a fast processor, bright screen, dual expansion slots, and a sweet low price; the Axim may just be the perfect PDA. Dell also offers a lower priced version for those who only need the basics!