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The Best Tech Tool Of 2003

by Stephen Canale

This has been a good year for technology. Advances in portable storage and WI-FI networking have both advanced and become easier to use. As impressive as these technologies are, my favorite "tech-tool" for the year extends portability and convenience even further.

While I've been an advocate of SmartPhone technology (cell phone PDA combination devices) for several years, none of the first and second generation models to date has really captured the full potential of the idea as well as the Kyocera 7135.

Most other models that I've tested and reviewed just didn't seem to have exactly the right balance between the cell-phone and the PDA functionality. They were either impressive phones, but less convenient to use as PDAs, or the reverse was true.

That said, the Kyocera 7135 not only offers exceptional functionality in both regards, but is so well engineered that it's hard to believe how far the technology has advanced from previous generations.

Favorite features

While I've seen "flip-phones" that appear to flip open for no reason beyond style, the 7135's clam-shell is sturdy, ergonomically designed and attractive all at the same time.

The Palm Graffiti data entry screen is cleverly located on the base of the unit, while the display is contained in the flip-up cover. Not only does this make viewing data extremely convenient, but it also allows for data entry without obstructing your view of the display.

The 7135 includes a standard dialing keypad (a feature missing on many SmartPhones) that provides for excellent phone functionality. Combined with "speed" and "voice-activated" dialing, plus speaker-phone and a head-set jack, the Kyocera lacks nothing in the "ease of use" department when you need to make a call.

As a fully function Palm OS PDA the 7135 has all of the standard Palm functions you would expect, including the ability to beam information through an infrared port. An unexpected bonus: the 7135 even has an SD/MMC Media expansion slot for adding memory and transferring files.

Software bundled with the Kyocera includes two handy programs for Internet access: Eudora Email and Eudora-Web for the Palm. When combined with a wireless data package, reviewing email and wireless enabled Web sites have become a regular and efficient part of my day.

While I wouldn't want to write extensive email responses or read lengthy web sites on a PDA-sized display, the ability to quickly check for important emails and to verify critical and time-sensitive information online (mapping, flight information, stocks, etc.) have both proven to be indispensable features.

Attention to detail

Aside from the everyday business necessities, the Kyocera also includes a built-in MP3 Player, text-messaging capabilities and a voice-memo recorder.

The single power supply not only fits the charging/synchronization cradle, but the phone as well. In addition, the outlet prongs fold flat into the power supply itself. These extra considerations eliminate the need for a separate travel charger, a welcome benefit indeed.

An additional USB data cable accessory is available for synchronizing data on the road; and the power supply also fits into this adapter as well.

Even the belt-clip holster has been thoroughly designed for maximum functionality. Not only is the holster quite sturdy but it also includes a swivel which is perfectly suited for multiple body positions, including sitting. Finally, the 7135 slips into the holster face first, offering both convenience and extra protection for the display.

Even with the clam-shell in the closed position, the top of the 7135 includes a signal strength indicator, the current time, an incoming call indicator and the battery meter.

Packing all of this functionality into a sleek package weighing less than 7 ounces is quite an accomplishment. Doing so with such careful attention to the overall engineering and usability of the unit is what distinguishes the Kyocera 7135 from other models; and what makes this the best tech tool of the year.

Visit Kyocera-wireless.com for pricing, details and wireless providers.

Published: December 3, 2003

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.

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