A point that's interesting to note is that with the OmniSky Minstrel V Modem, you'll not only have access to Palm.Net, but also to OmniSky's wireless Web service, which is available in 167 metropolitan areas in the United States.

The modem communicates at 19.2 kbps on the CDPD (Code Division Multiple Access) network. The service comes with an email address, or you can set it up to check the email from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). You can also use Yahoo Instant Messaging. The only drawback here is that the modem uses the same connector you'd need to attach a portable keyboard, so you couldn't use both at the same time. You'd have to make do with Graffiti for your text input.

The Kyocera QCP 6035
Another way to connect your Palm handheld to the Internet is to use one of the many cables on the market to connect your handheld to your cell phone. However, if you'd prefer to have your phone and handheld functionality all in one convenient package, you've got options there as well.

The Kyocera QCP 6035 (at http://www.kyocera-wireless.com/kysmart/kysmart_series.htm) is what's called a smartphone, a combination cellular phone and PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). In this case, the PDA functions are handled by the Palm OS. The device is pictured in Figure C.

FIGURE C


The Kyocera QCP 6035 combines a cell phone and a Palm OS handheld. Roll over picture for a larger image.

The Kyocera QCP 6035 was reviewed recently by Jason Thibeault in the July 2001 issue of PalmPower's Enterprise Edition at http://www.palmpowerenterprise.com/issues/issue200107/kyocera001.html. It has 8MB of RAM, version 3.5 of the Palm OS, and supports Palm Web clipping applications. Besides wirelessly connecting to the Internet, though, smartphones have another big advantage. You can also use them to make phone calls, and you can dial directly from your Address Book. Multi-functionality is a beautiful thing.

The SPH-I300
Speaking of beautiful, Samsung has recently come out with its own cell phone/PDA combo in the form of the SPH-I300 Series handset (at http://samsungelectronics.com/mobile_phone/ads_awards/trade_shows/cebit_2001_pdaphone.html). Not only do you get the benefits listed above of having a Palm OS device combined with a wireless phone, but you also get a gorgeous color screen, as you can see in Figure D.

FIGURE D


The SPH-I300 features a stunning 256 color display. Roll over picture for a larger image.

The data capabilities include Web browsing (Openwave UP4.1), Web clipping available via Palm.Net, email, short message service, and data synchronization with a PC. SPH-I300 also includes infrared communication and 8 MB of memory for user data and applications.

The SPH-I300 was developed in conjunction with Palm and is compatible with all Palm OS-based applications. The hardware itself features a small top viewer for calling information such as caller ID, time, and roaming and power indicator. It also has a speakerphone so you can talk hands free. The SPH-I300 weighs 170g with a standard battery and measures 125 x 58 x 21 mm.