Sony CLIE PEG-T615C/S Handheld (Silver)

Sometimes you get so wrapped up in work that you forget about important obligations. With personalized audio alert & World Alarm Clock software that keeps track of multiple time zones & has a wake-up alarm, Sony's PEG-T415 Clie lets you stay on top of things. From a Palm OS« 4.1, 8MB RAM & a Memory Stick« expansion slot to Calendar, To-Do List & Spreadsheet functions, the Clie can tackle any job. And, with an infrared port & included software, it can even remotely control audio & video products.

Having already dipped its toe in the ocean that is the PDA market with the Clié PEG-SN760C and the PEG-S300 models, Sony has now jumped in with a second-generation color model--the PEG-T615C. Featuring the same 33 MHz DragonBall processor, high-resolution 320 x 320 color screen, and jog wheel functionality, it also boasts 16 MB of internal RAM, the latest version of the Palm OS (v. 4.1), and a superslim aluminum body.

Very similar in design to Sony's previous color model, the Clié PEG-T615C features the same Jog Dial button, allowing for easy, one-handed navigation around applications. The scroll buttons have been replaced with a tiny rocker switch, which doesn't function as easily as the original buttons. Also, the included flipover screen protector does have a tendency to detach from the unit a bit too easily.

The Memory Stick slot has been retained, allowing for increased expandability. Battery life runs at about 15 days before a recharge is required, though this does depend entirely on how much you use the PDA.

The PEG-T615C has lots of little pluses that make it stand out from the rest. It sits in the cradle nicely and it doesn't make a horrible crunching sound when it's removed, unlike some PDAs. Clié-specific applications such as the AV Remote Commander, World Alarm (which allows you to use your own sound files), Sound Utility, and Clié Paint are fun to play around with. Those of you wanting to do some serious work will be pleased with Documents To Go and Intellisync Lite. The latest version of the Palm OS includes easier data entry and enhanced security and mobile connectivity.

However, the standout feature on the PEG-T615C has to be the high-resolution screen--the images are sharp and detailed, while the text is supersmooth. It makes other PDA displays look positively archaic.

With its bright color screen, superior sound quality, and supersleek body, the PEG-T615C is probably the best (and sexiest) Palm OS-based PDA on the market at the moment and well worth your consideration. --Martin Snelling

Pros:

• Bright, high-resolution color screen
• 16 MB of memory that's expandable with Memory Sticks
• Superslim
• Fun Sony add-on programs

Cons:

• New rocker switch replacing scroll buttons not as functional
• Flip screen protector detaches too easily

Powerful productivity wrapped in an attractive body, the Sony Clié handheld will appeal to both your practical and aesthetic sensibilities. The Palm-powered Sony PEG-T615CS offers great organization tools in a slim PDA (just a half-inch thick) with a crisp color screen. And exclusive Sony features like the Jog Dial navigator and Memory Stick media expansion slot make the Clié the smart and stylish way to keep yourself organized.

The Sony Clié PEG-T615CS features 16 MB of RAM and a high-resolution TFT color display that's great for showing off your pictures to friends and coworkers. Use the PEG-T615CS as a remote control for audio and video components using its enhanced infrared port and Clié Remote Commander software.

The Sony Clié handheld runs on the proven, reliable Palm operating system, which means it comes complete with all the standard Palm OS applications you need for organizing your life. It comes with Date Book, To Do List, Memo Pad, Mail, and Expense tools, and the Sony-enhanced Address Book that enables you to add photos to your contacts.

It also features a wide range of fun and productivity applications, including StreetFinder Express from Rand McNally for interactive maps, Vindigo city guides, Amy Reiley's Pocket Vineyard and Pocket Gourmet, and games such as Zap!2016, Acid Solitaire, and Race Fever. Plus, the Clié is fully compatible with thousands of Palm OS add-on applications available for download.

Connect to your PC and synchronize your contacts and date book using the included USB cradle. You can also beam information to other Palm OS handheld owners using the IrDA infrared port.

The Sony Clié PEG-T615 comes with a number of exclusive Sony features. The Jog Dial navigator allows you to access images, phone numbers, notes, even video clips, while keeping your other hand free. And you get virtually unlimited data storage with Sony's Memory Stick removable media. Transfer digital content between your Clié handheld and other Memory Stick-compatible products, including digital cameras, digital camcorders, and PCs. The PEG-T615 can also be used to remotely control audio and video products up to 15 feet away using its enhanced infrared port and Remote Commander software.

The Sony Clié is compatible with Microsoft Windows 98, 98 SE, 2000 Professional, and Me, and connects to your PC using the USB port. It comes with a USB HotSync cradle (which also charges the lithium-polymer battery), detachable AC adapter, stylus, and a protective cover.

What's in the box

• Clie handheld
• USB HotSync cradle
• AC adapter
• Stylus
• Protective cover
• Installation CD-ROM
• Application manual
• Read This First
• Registration Notice
• Graffiti sticker
• End User License Agreement
• Limited Warranty Statement