[SPiNdustrious]

Hello,

I am wondering what handheld devices you would recommend that meet the following specifications in order of importance:

1. Ability to connect to HTTP/HTTPS servers.
2. Ability to display XHTML/CSS data and submit <form>s.
3. Adequate display for continuous outdoor use (glare, backlight power, etc.)
4. Ability to readily enter text (QWERTY keyboard a definite plus!).
5. Reasonably durable and able to function in a dusty, jostling outdoor environment.

I have been looking at:

• PocketPCs: Dell Axim, Casio IT-10 and EG-800, Symbol MC-50, TDS Recon
• Palms: Tungsten C, LifeDrive
• Smartphones: Blackberry, Treo 600/650

Any experience (firsthand or heresay!) that you might have with any of these would be most valuable.

Am I on the right track or is there some perfect solution that I've completely overlooked?

Thanks,

Peter

[TimmyDee51]

Looks like a pretty complete list to me. It depends on what you're looking to do with it. If you're looking for an around the house device, the Tungsten C or LifeDrive look pretty nice. The C's QWERTY keyboard and built-in WiFi are pretty compelling. If you want a smartphone, I lean towards the Treos. I looked at the Blackberries, but the lack of third-party software coupled with the expensive BB service ($30 a month for T-Mobile vs. $5 for t-zones or $20 for full web access) pushed me away from them. I have a Treo 600 and I'm extremely happy with it.

The Treo 650 can handle XHTML and CSS. You can also download ssh apps for it freely (as in beer). It's keyboard is also much improved over the 600 (and I like the 600's a lot).

[SPiNdustrious]

I agree with Timmy that the Tungsten C's keyboard and integrated wireless (and VPN for that matter) are compelling features. What do you all think of the Palm Source Web Browser packaged with it? Based on Palm's web site, it sounds pretty capable...

Thanks,

Peter