PDA Pocket pc

Pocket PC-based PDAs, such as those in the popular Compaq iPaq series, have tended toward the expensive end of the PDA spectrum. Toshiba is trying to change that with the new e310. In addition to the price, the excellent screen is a selling point. The 65,000-color reflective TFT display is viewable both indoors and out.

The e310 is built around a 206-MHz Intel StrongARM processor and has an internal microphone and speaker as well as a stereo-output mini-plug port. The bundle includes a USB docking cradle/charger, an AC adapter that can also serve as a travel charger, and the usual preinstalled Microsoft Pocket Office and entertainment applications.

As you'd expect, the e310 makes some trade-offs to stay below the $500-to-$600 range of other Pocket PC 2002 models. For starters, you get only 32MB of internal RAM .

Navigating through menus and apps with the e310 is easy. In addition to four application-launch keys and a joystick-style button, the e310 also has a scroll wheel (the Toshiba Scroller) that is similar to the Jog Dial on Sony' Clié handhelds. This combination allows trouble-free two-handed or one-handed navigation.

The Toshiba e310 is a fully functional Pocket PC device with the latest OS, a cool screen, and mobile-friendly dimensions, at a relatively affordable price. If you won't miss the extra RAM and dual expansion slots found in costlier models, the e310 is a good buy.