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-- Newbie looking to buy PALM V or VISOR - need lots of questions answered ASAP, thanks! (http://discussion.visorcentral.com/vcforum/showthread.php?threadid=963)

Good to be here!

The other day I decided I wanted a new toy. Since I own a business and have lots of schedules and contacts to control, I thought I'd buy a PALM device.

My first thought was to buy a PALM V, that is, until someone mentioned the VISOR.

From what I have read, the VISOR looks to be superior in value to the PALM devices, especially in memory (8mb) and expansion.

I have also read the many complaint stories on this website concerning ordering foul-ups and delays in shipping. Since most of this news was from October 1999, I am hoping advances were made.

So, without further ado, I do have some Questions for the owners of the VISOR, and I Thank You in advance for answering these questions.

Here we go...

I am buying the DELUXE version $249

1. Are you all extremely happy with the VISOR, and does it truly exceed the PALM devices by 3COM?

2. Is the VISOR totally interactive with your computer so you can enter all the information on your computer via keyboard and easily download it to the VISOR?

3. What is the CURRENT situation on ordering this device? Are they readily in stock, and shipped immediately?

4. What are the BASIC accessories that come with the DELUXE VISOR? What do I or should I immediately need to buy accessory wise with this product?

5. Is the BACKUP module totally necessary? I figured most of the information is backed up on my computer in case it gets lost from the VISOR.

6. How is the CASE that comes with the DELUXE version? What have you found to be the handiest case for the VISOR? Is the deluxe case (most expensive) worth the cost or are you happy with the less expensive ones? Something with pockets for cards, batteries or a pen would be nice.

7. Do I need to buy a stylus pen to operate
frm screen to screen, or does it come with one?

8. Honestly, what is the nicest looking color to buy? I like the black graphite because it looks executive, but the ICE looks pretty neat, too. Your thoughts?

9. How long did delivery take? Is it worth upgrading to EXPRESS?

Basically, I hope that someone can also tell me a bit about their experiences with the VISOR, either helping me sell the product or steering me away from it.

Thanks everyone!

------------------
Ronald Epstein
HOME THEATER FORUM http://www.hometheaterforum.com

[This message has been edited by Ronald Epstein (edited 01-15-2000).]

[This message has been edited by JHromadka (edited 01-16-2000).]

Hey Ron... I frequented your site for quite a while when I bought my DVD player 2 years ago and my AC-3 receiver just a little later. I still refer people to your site now. Great source of info.

1. I love the 8 Mb Visor Deluxe and I believe it to be a better value than the Palms, but some of the Palms are very good deals mail order and deserve to be considered. I would suggest you compare the 4 Mb IIIx. While the Palm V looks very nice, it is a poor value with its 2 Mb memory and high cost. If memory is not an issue, I would suggest either the plain 2 Mb Visor or the Palm IIIe.

2. Depends on what you are talking about... I synch Outlook and I can type most most of what I want on my computer. I will purchase a Stowaway foldable keyboard when it comes out.

3. They are arriving within 2 weeks most of the time.

4. Deluxe: 8 Mb Visor, lid, stylus, slip case, USB cradle. No serial cradle.

5. Either backup module (esp. if you travel a lot) or backup software. The included software does an incomplete backup, but it is acceptable for some.

6. I am fine with my free slip case. Any other would probably be too big for my preference. (I often keep it in my back pocket.)

------------------
Eugene Hsieh
Editor, VisorCentral FAQ

Ron, the Visor Deluxe is certainly more cost-effective than the V. Having said that, the Palm Vx would be a sleek choice (though it is more expensive) if you're expensing this thru your office anyway and if you don't think you'll need the Springboard slot. I'll try to answer some of your questions.

1. Yes, extremely satisfied with it, having upgraded from a Palm III.

2. Yes, and if your computer runs Win98 with USB, then your HotSyncs will take no time at all.

3. Handspring has significantly improved their shipping times recently since mid December, with receiving times of 1-2 weeks post-ordering. There have been some around 3 weeks, and some even 3-4 days!

4. You'll need to get the metal 5-pack stylus, because the stock one is ... how do I say it nicely... not very useful.

5. No, you don't need the Backup module as long as you Hotsync/Backup to your computer everyday. If you think you'll need more memory, then the 8Meg memory module can also double to backup important data.

6. If you're thinking of carrying it in your pants pockets (like I do), then you'll want to get the least bulky case. Currently I'm using the slim leather case from my since-retired Palm III.

One other consideration is colour of the case. The graphite (black, really) is plain but fits well in the boardroom environment, whereas blue and ice (translucent, really) are the next most popular choices.

Hope this helps...

1. I love my visor no complaints.

2. If you are using the provided apps, yes. I typed all my phone numbers into my desktop (using palmdesktop) and it was synced to the Visor.

3. They seem to have gotten their act together. Even though they say 4-6 weeks, it comes a lot faster.

4. A case and stylus. I had no problem with the stylus, put I bought a panache anyway. I like it better becasue of its weight. I would also but screen protectors.

5. No it isn't totakllly necessary, if you aren't going to be away for your PC for any length of time. But remember, syncing doesn't backup everything. If you don't want a buddy you should look into a software solution. I use Backup Buddy.

6. I don't use any other case but the one that came with it, but it isn't the best. Basicallt its a sock with cushion (but not much cushion).

7. It comes with astylus. See above.

8. I have a Blue and Like it. I have only seen the graphite up close. I like the graphite a little more.

9. I think it cost 3.00 more for express. Why not get it that way.

Hope this helps.

WOW what a list!

I will answer what I can and not sling hash about the things I don't so this will be a short reply

I am thrilled with my BVD (Blue Visor Deluxe).
I think it is a better Value than the Palm IIIx and the Vx. I can't speak interms of quality one V the other, my Visor has been flawless. The sringboard technology makes the Visor a more interesting product than the Palm.

I have had no trouble moving all of my contacts, appointments, tasks and memos seamlessly from My Home and Work computers and the Visor. I use Outlook 2000 and home and the office and so for so good.

I received my Visor in three weeks at a time they were telling people 4 to 6 weeks. I have seen postings from people that have received their unit in a week or less. It seems Handsring has their act together for new orders.

Quality seems to have improved. I see less posts about defective units now than before.

My Visor came with one USB cradle ,I ordered a second USB cradle for work. The stylus the visor comes with leaves a greatdeal to be desired. Most people it seems are purchasing an after market stylus. Most people recomend some sort of screen protection like WrightRights.

If you have a lot of programs loaded on your Visor, I imagine the backup module is a good thing, it will be my birthday gift to myself this coming March.

I can't say much about cases but I was unhappy with the slim case they list for $24.95. I don't think it does its intended job very well at all and I am looking to return it to handspring. I have ordered a Devian DVP3M case from www.devian.com.

As I said, I am thrilled with my Visor and I have recomended them to friends


------------------
Life is to short for boring food

Ron - I love your site! I've been a big fan since it's inception!!

Now for your questions:

1. I haven't been this happy with a purchase for a long, long time. I bought mine a few months before my wedding (in December), and with Y2K on the horizon then I couldn't have made it through everything without it (work was really hectic). I've never used a Palm [Pilot] device but alot of my co-workers have them and from the selection of features I really like the Visor more.

2. I'm using the Palm Desktop software that comes with the Visor and I can enter all my contacts/appts from that app and download it to my Visor. It seems to interact well with Outlook 2000, also.

3. Although I ordered mine in October I've been reading that delivery lately has been within 10 biz days.

4. If you have Win98 definitely get the USB port. It is MUCH faster than the serial port. Also, I purchased the stylus 5 pack with it and I love them! They come with a screwdriver that can work on the Visor (Heaven forbid you ever need to open it) and the other end has a "reset pin" for those times you may need to do a reset. One thing that I didn't buy right away but just received yesterday is a protective case. It comes with a leather case, but I didn't feel it provided enough protection for me. I purchased the RhinoSkin Shocksuit and I am very pleased with it. Be sure to research your cases carefully to see which one best fits your needs.

5. I did not purchase the backup module (I'm waiting for the Six-pack from Innogear). Instead, I use BackupBuddy and it has saved my life more than a few times. Of course, this would not help me if I was on the road without my laptop...

6. As I previously noted I was not totally confident that the provided case was not protective enough. With the needs that you described you may want to look into the RhinoPak 2000. I considered this case before I bought the RhinoSkin Shocksuit but I didn't really need everything the Pak 2000 offered.

7. The Visor will come with a stylus (no pen included) but I've heard that it scratches the screen. I've never used mine because I bought the Stylus pack at the same time. But, I have heard that Visors are now shipping with a different kind of stylus that is not as likely to scratch the screen.

8. I'd say it's almost impossible to say which is the nicest looking color. It's relative to you and your working environment (if that kind of thing matters to you). Where I work I probably should have gotten the Graphite since the Corporate standard is the Palm Vx or VII. But it doesn't fit my personality so I chose the one that seems to be the least liked color (Orange - dare to be different!).

9. My order took exactly 4 weeks and I had express delivery. Honestly, I couldn't wait to get my Visor, so I said "The faster, the better!)

I wish you luck in your endevour to pick the best Visor (or Palm if you decide...) for you. If you choose any of the Visor's I'm positive you won't be disappointed.

Good luck!

------------------
Rick Bailey
eFizz.com

1. YES YES YES!!! It is excellent, I love the thing! It is supposedly faster than a Palm Vx, and I have had NO problems.

2. Yes and no. If you mean enter it like your keyboard is directly attached to your visor, no. However, you can use Palm Desktop and/or Outlook Express on your PC and it will enter it in with your visor at the next hotsync, just like a palm. If you need a keyboard for all of your palm apps, you can buy the really cool go type foldable keyboard. It looks like it would be a great add on for any visor.

3. I got mine in 2 weeks, with express shipping. It came without any calls to CS or Donna. True, it is 24 hour shipping, but we can all wait a few days, right?

4. USB cradle, Plastic Toothpick-aka Stylus , Hard cover, Soft Cover, CD-ROM, and a box of stickers/manuals/add to buy some springboard modules. In my oppinion, buy WrightRights, they are worth it in the long run, especially if you let anybody look at your visor, even though they always grab adn write on it. You also might get a replacement to the plastic toothpick, unless you don't mind (I don't). Finally, get some NiMH's. I have almost used up a pack of energiser advanced batteries...after 4 weeks of use! I am a very heavy user.

5. Most of your databases/preferences are saved, but not everything. Some people get BackupBuddy, but for the price you should go and get a backup module, more convient in case of a battery failure.

6. I am fine with the standard case that comes with the deluxe visor, though I wouldn't mind one with some pockets. Haven't really looked though.

7. It comes with a plastic toothpic, as I have already mentioned. Wether or not you get a new one is personal preference. I don't really care, so I just use the stylus that came with it.

8. Graphite looks like it is boring. I like blue, it looks nice, expecially if you own/plan on buying an iMac or a G4 from apple. Even though I own a PC, I really like what apple has done with their new systems.

9. 2 Weeks, with express. Don't know how long delivery takes with standard, but express is cheap enough.

Hope this helped

1. Yes. I have no complains at all. I think people pay extra $$$ for palm as a brand. Sure, Palm Vx is nice, and V & Vx have better screen than Visor, but Visor's screen is better than Palm series.

2. Yes. Here's the data flow you can imagine

User <==> Palm Desktop <==> Visor <==> User

3. Keep checking on status page on www.handspring.com. Generally, it arrives earlier than they say: You'll be happy with that fact.

4. Besides Visor itself and other stuff (CD-ROM, leather case, manual, stickers, etc)... it comes with USB cradle and one plastic stylus. You don't want to wait another month or so for additional order...order altogether. Serial cradle (ONLY if your PC doesn't support USB) and 5-pack styli is definitely must have, unless you want to carry a paper clip around. Believe me, it freezes when it's the most critical (= one of the most intensive use) time, even if you're the beginner like me.

5. I don't think so...all the personal information is backed up on your hard drive, even additional software you installed on your Visor will be backed up in places like
C:\Program Files\Palm\(user_name)\Backup
So, as long as you have access to your PC, you'll be fine w/o it.

6. I still like the way paper organizer looks, and still want custom Visor case. Original case that comes with Visor Deluxe is very..uh, "functional." Hard leather (something hard like cardboard and pads are in it) is wrapped around from front, bottom, and back..in "U" shape if you look from side. Both side has stretchy band, so no matter how you put your Visor in (with plastic cover or without it), it fits perfectly. It looks like it provides enough security, so probably it'll be fine if you drop it. Only problem is, it's not very good looking. Oh well...I'd like to hear other opinion about custom cases, though.

7. It comes with one plastic one. Personally it's definitely better than the one w/ Palm Professional, so it was okay with me, but like I said, I think a reset pin is necessity, so buy 5-pack (or look for someone you can buy at least one), then take your time to look for other styli.

8. Personally, I was inspired by Orange. Some pictures on HandSpring's site look like yellow, but it's nice dark orange. I think two-tone (blue/ice, orange/ice, etc)...gives sophisticated (less-toy-like) look: very fine border between toy and casual gadget ;-) If the custom case was available at that time I might have ordered ice Visor w/ blue leather case or something like that. Why not Graphite? ...no offence, but it's too boring.

9. Even though I ordered mine during Christmas shopping season, I don't think I waited more than a month (expected to wait for mine for like 3 more weeks). Only few more bucks for next day delivery...why not???

Another tip: Start using your baby with screen protection like "WriteRight." They aren't cheap, so you don't need Starter's Kit, but definitely WriteRight is must-have. I strongly suggest to try local store like BestBuy, don't go home so soon, but open the package immediately to see all the films are clear, otherwise go back to the store for exchange. This could save you weeks of hassle.

One possible drawback I can think of, is the limit of sync support: You'll have to rely on 3rd party software if you want to use other organizor software or e-mail client (besides Outlook Express). Situation with Mac is better than Palm family, although you'll still have to look for e-mail syncing option online.

Any way, you'll love your baby! Have fun shopping around. :-)

Hey Ron, your website was suggested to me when I started looking for DVD players (I plan on getting an RCA one as an entry level one).

Most of the questions are answered by others, but I wanted to mention that the Backup Module is only necessary if you travel often and/or are away from your computer a lot. The Visor comes with a stylus, but do yourself a favor and get a better one (see the Accessories section). The slip case that comes with the VDX is decent. I have a graphite one, but if you get a color VDX and get a case that envelopes it, what difference does the color make?

------------------
James Hromadka
VisorCentral.com
Personal Website: http://www.Hromadka.com

Hey Ron. I mention visor on your site all the time (Bryan Cristina)

If the other answers aren't enough, here's a few more..

1. I am very happy with my Visor Deluxe. Compared to the Palms by 3Com I would say it's better. I bought my girlfriend a IIIx for Christmas simply because I got an awesome deal on it, and I got my brother a IIIe to use for his personal use. The Visor has 2x the memory of the IIIx and 4x the mem of the IIIe.. well worth the extra 30 bucks you'll spend for twice the memory. Plus the springboard slot, if it takes off, will be worth it.

2. Things are easy to go back and forth from computer to Visor and vice versa.

3. Answered, but it seems to be ok now.

4. You should immediately buy a 5 pack of stylus pens because the shipping is outrageous if you buy them alone (8.50 for a 16 dollar item). Much better than the generic plastic one.

5. Answered again, but unless you travel frequently or are using a lot more than the 8 megs of space (you probably won't) you might not need the backup module.

6. Don't know anything about cases.. sorry.

7. Stylus comes with one.. refer to #4

8. I have the blue and like the colour. The graphite/black is a pretty safe bet. You can go to http://mayhem.res.cmu.edu/~cheese/visor.html to see some shots of what the colours actually look like. (Thanks to RichF)

9. Delivery doesn't seem bad, and I wouldn't waste any money on express.

As you can see here, we have a lot of people trying to sell you. As both a Palm and Visor owner, I can tell you you made the right choice at least choosing the PalmOS. With most of the delivery problems behind them, it is pretty much a no-brainer to go with the Visor Deluxe unless you REALLY like the form of the V or Vx.. Another thing.. the V/Vx has its own rechargable battery.. so if it dies on the road and you can't charge it, you're out of luck.

I'll chime in with a few brief thoughts.

I've been involved with computing and technology for about 15 years. I never thought I needed a PDA. Now I really don't see how I existed without one! Finally, I'm on the way to being organized!!!

I have an Orange and a Graphite Deluxe. IMHO, the Graphite looks more business-like. The fit and finish of the Graphite would blend in well for corporate users. I got the Orange first and I do love the shade of Orange.

Unless Handspring has changed the process, definitely get a better stylus. I have a chrome Cross Digital Writer (which is great) as well as an Orange Handspring stylus. (Bought from someone on this forum.)

I use Outlook 2000. Because of all the custom folders I have, I bought Intellisync. At 69 bucks it wasn't cheap, but it was exactly what I needed. For standard syncing with Outlook, PocketMirror (incl w/Handspring CD) should work well for you.

Nothing could be as easy as using the Backup Springboard. For me, $40 was well worth it with all the apps and data I have on my Visor.

One final note about shipping: Some early orders that requested Standard shipping got overnight (FedEx) as a bonus. But now, I think the free ride is over. I notice you live on the East Coast as I do. Expect 5-10 days using UPS Ground--Handspring's Standard method. Upgrade to Express. The difference isn't that much.

I guess I wasn't that brief.

Regards,
David

You guys are absolutely great!

Nice to see some HTF members here.

Well, I bought a VISOR last night.

I bought the graphite Visor Deluxe.

I then bought a backup module.

I then bought a $13 stylus pen.

My BIG mistake was that I ordered
all this over the net, and seperately,
so I had to pay $8+ shipping on each item.

I'll have to call HANDSPRING on Monday
and see if they could combine the orders
and save me shipping costs of over $24.

I am really looking forward to this thing.


QUESTION....

Is there any place I can download the
software now so that I can start putting
in all my data before my VISOR arrives?

This would save me lots of time.



------------------
Ronald Epstein
HOME THEATER FORUM
http://www.hometheaterforum.com

two places for sharewear, freewear and comercial softwear come to mind: www.palmspot.com
and www.palmgear.com


------------------
Life is to short for boring food

SpiceUmUp,

Which software in specific should
I be looking for?

Is this the same exact software that
comes bundled with the VISOR?

So, by downloading this software I
can begin putting all my contact
information in and then I can immediately
download it to my VISOR when I get it?

If this is the case, this is a major
step in starting to enjoy my VISOR even
before it arrives.

Please give me all the details you
can including the name of the exact
software that comes with the VISOR.

Thanks again!

------------------
Ronald Epstein
HOME THEATER FORUM http://www.hometheaterforum.com

[This message has been edited by Ronald Epstein (edited 01-16-2000).]

Ron:

A lot of people were receiving Visors with cracked CDs, so I had this link up for them, but you might as well use it to get things going with your data.

I recommend doubling up your data just incase when you sync you delete what you had put in instead of overwriting the Visor.
http://bryan-cristina.tripod.com/visor.zip

That is all that is on the Visor CD. The ONLY difference is I took off the user manual (which you can download at Handspring's site) and the adobe reader (which was 5 megs.. not worth it). I don't know what kind of connection you have, but it's a 9 meg file, btw.

If you have any questions, feel free to post or email.

-b

[This message has been edited by BizEchilD (edited 01-16-2000).]

quote:

---

Originally posted by BizEchilD:
A lot of people were receiving Visors with cracked CDs, so I had this link up for them,

---

Ron,

Are you using any contact management software now? If so, you most likely can import it into the Visor and PIM when it arrives. There may even be a conduit you can use to keep your current contact manager and Visor in sync.

Bottom line is that if you have existing data, you should not need to re-enter it manually.

bregent,

I just have an EXCEL chart that I'd like
to import, but I do not know if the VISOR
handles it.

GUYS --

Thanks for the software link. I'll get
started today!



------------------
Ronald Epstein
HOME THEATER FORUM
http://www.hometheaterforum.com

Ron,

You could export the Excel file as csv and then import it into the Palm Desktop. It would take a little effort to get it formatted correctly but depending on how many contacts you have it might be easier. If you have more than 50 contacts already in Excel, I would suggest looking at importing.

--bob

Bob,

In another thread, someone suggested saving
my EXCEL databaxse as a "csv" file.

Problem is, EXCEL doesn't have that save
option. There are about 5 formats you can
save your spreadsheet in -- CSV is not one.

I did try just calling the file "data.csv"
but that didn't seem to work.

Now my questions....

1. How do I save it as a "csv" file in
EXCEL?

2. Once done, where exactly do I import
this file to? I see ADDRESES, TO DO,
and MEMO on the Palm Desktop software.

3. Someone suggested a 3rd Party software
called QUICKSHEET or TINY SHEET. Do I
need these programs to import and properly
set up my EXCEL files?

All these little 3rd party software files
add up in cost, at about $15 - $50 each,
and I can see I am going to be spending
a crapload of money just to get my VISOR
to work functionally.

Thanks for all the help



------------------
Ronald Epstein
HOME THEATER FORUM
http://www.hometheaterforum.com