IBM WorkPad c500 Handheld

I've owned a WorkPad since Jan 2002. I previously owned a Palm M100 and, frankly, I don't see much of a difference; probably because they look the same and the WorkPad uses the Palm OS. The WorkPad basically is a Palm and it would not have been my first choice of PDA's.
"Then why did you buy it?" you ask? Well, I didn't actually buy it; it came with my laptop, which is (you guessed it) an IBM!

What I like
The WorkPad is fairly sturdy; it's taken a lickin' and kept on tickin'. It's relatively thin (as compared to more bulky PDA's) and fits into my pocket without much obstruction. I usually only recharge my WP once a week and it fully recharges in a matter of minutes. I've dumped a lot of junk (games, useless programs, etc) onto my WP and I've still got 40% of memory left. Let's face it, 8MB is alot when your only dealing with kilobyte files.
My favorite feature is the Infrared (IR) port. While it's possible to HotSync (synchronize your PDA with your PC) using the USB cradle, the IR port is a more attractive option if you use a laptop and aren't always sitting next to a power outlet, or you don't want to lug around the cradle everywhere you go-- although the IR port isn't quite as fast as the USB.
I initially had some compatiblity issues getting the IR port on my laptop to detect my WorkPad; it turned out to be a common problem inherent in Windows 2000 (what a surpise) but IBM has since released a fix. I've recently upgraded to Windows XP professional and haven't had any conflicts.
Another use of the IR on the WP is to "beam" information, games, business cards, etc. to other PDA's. This is a quick and convenient way to exchange information with your colleagues, contacts, and friends. Since it uses the Palm OS, the WorkPad can sync with your mail program (like Outlook) without any problems.

The buttons on this PDA perform standard functions that allow you to scroll pages, access your calendar, contact & task lists, and memo pad. They can also be customized to perform different functions.

The WorkPad has a slot for expansion cards that allow you to add additional software or memory. It also comes equipped with a universal connector that accepts peripheral hardware like a modem, portable keyboard, or a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. The modem would be very handy if you need real-time access to the internet. Otherwise, you can download email and website content (by syncing with a channel service like AvantGo) and read them at your convenience; you can also compose email on the WP to send later. I haven't purchased any add-ons for my WP, so I can't give a first-hand account of how well they work.


What doesn't impress me
The so-called color display is not that spectacular; at least not enough to justify the difference in cost from a monochrome. However, the backlight does give a more brilliant look to the display, so I keep it on even in well lit situations.

The bottom line
The WorkPad C505 is a useful organizational tool with enough features that it can hold it's own in the world of PDA's. If you're a tech-head looking for the coolest gadget, complete with an MP3 player and all that other jazz, then this isn't the one for you. It is suitable for a businessperson or student who needs a bit more organization and portability.
I must admit, I don't usually leave home without my WorkPad and it's has yet to let me down.