Sony Clie PEG-SJ30

When it comes to handheld computers, size is important. Extra functions are all very well, but if they mean the device needs a briefcase to carry it around it is just waste.

Palm operating system-based handheld computers have a reputation for being small and capable. With Sony designing the packaging, the result should be a cute but functional handheld.

And that is exactly what you get.

The Clie sits snugly in the hand and is small by handheld computer terms. The colour screen is sharp and takes up most of the front of the device.

There are four shortcut buttons and a scroll button squeezed onto the bottom edge of the Clie for navigating without the stylus.

The main items to note are along the top edge. There is an infrared port for sending information to a notebook PC or similar; a power button, stylus and an expansion slot for Memory Stick memory cards.

Palm devices feel very easy to use as soon as they are turned on. The main page displays all the applications and there are four shortcut buttons for Address Book, Diary, To Do and Memo pad.

Sony has added to the standard Palm applications to include an image editor and movie player software.

HotSync software is supplied for backing up information to a desktop PC computer.

In order to keep costs sensible, there is no cradle supplied, just a power lead and USB connector.

Assuming you don't mind carrying the cables round, it does make it more portable, although using the Clie when it is connected to the PC is a little fiddly.

This is compounded by the small stylus, which can get lost in your hand when writing or pointing on the screen.

There are several extras available for the Clie that plug into the bottom, including a game controller and an audio player.

While 16MB of memory is plenty for a Palm OS-based device, it won't hold much music. Memory Sticks are also needed to get the most of its musical capabilities.

Overall, however, the combination of Palm OS and Sony-style abilities make this a very attractive handheld computer.

DETAILS
Price: £230

Contact: Sony 0870 542 4424