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Hi All-
Just registered after lurking for awhile...

What modem does every one use? I am considering the Thincom or the Handspring model. I like the Handspring because it has it's own batteries and may not drain the Visor. Also Thincoms' software is not the full version but a shareware version. I would *really* like to use the software of my choice. Can the software on the Thincom be deleted or upgraded? My use would be mainly to get e-mail.


Thanks,

Robert

Don't know that I can help that much. But I know your dilema.

I finally broke down and ordered the Thincom after reading James' review. Deciding factors for me were size, upgradability to 56K (if we ever get there), and price. Not that the price is much better than the HandSpring module, but I just felt I was getting more for the money.

All the Thincom software is on the module and pops into the launch screen when you plug the module in. I like that because it doesn't clutter up the normal memory. The software that is included in addition to Thincom's modem configuration software are: BrowseIt, a VT 100 Terminal emulator, and MultiMail.

I've used BrowseIt, MultiMail Pro, and HotSync'd via the phone line with my main system. BrowseIt is functional. But, as can be expected with the small viewing area of the HandSpring, manuevering around a web page with the scroll bars is a bummer. Suffice it to say it's doable.

MultiMail Pro impresses me. It is a full function email program on a par with Outlook Express, Eudora lite, and others. It interfaces with the Address book for email address lookup and provides a mechanism for dealing with attachments. The downside is, that it is only a 10 day demo and I wonder what happens after that expires...does it auto delete or just sit there and waste space. Check with me in 8 more days when mine expires. Also, I'm debating how much I need the program since when I HotSync, even remotely, the HotSync, downloads new email into the standard HandSpring Mail program anyway. If I were traveling extensively, I might want MultiMail. But the standard mail gives me the ability to read and respond to emails needing responses. The rest can wait 'til I can get home. Whatever modem you buy, MultiMail will be a separate purchase. It's worth checking out.

I have the Handspring modem, but I will probably get the Innogear 2M or the 6-Pack when it ships, as I would like something smaller and do not like extra cords.

If you are a registered user of Eudora, you can get a copy of Eudora Internet Suite for free, which incorporates a POP3 client and a text-only web browser.

I have used both modems extensively. I got the Handspring modem first and bought Multimail to use with it (It came without ANY software apps). The full version of Multimail in my main memory had precendence over the demo version in the Thincom memory so that caused no trouble.

I initially liked the Handspring modem better as it had it's own batteries and seemed to be more robust in handling noisy phone lines. I have since used both extensively (including a 3 week vacation in Europe). I found myself using the Thincom more and more. The convenience of not having to remove the Visor from the case to insert the Handspring modem and the convenience of having the Thincom modem always in the Visor were very strong. I initially didn't like the long 6' dongle connector for the Thincom, but became comfortable with it. It fits in a shirt or pants pocket easily and is MUCH liter than the Handspring modem + cable would be.

In short, I would choose the Thincom over the handspring for convenience now. Just one opinion though.... your mileage may vary (c: