Research in Motion's BlackBerry PDAs have always focused on easy e-mailing. Their latest PDAs such as the new 8700c now incorporate all kinds of other useful features into the handy handheld device including being a full-fledged cell phone.

Using the Cingular EDGE network, the 8700c PDA can browse the Web, send and receive e-mail, and text message as well as serve as a voice phone. We were quite impressed with the speed at which Web sites loaded, and sending and receiving e-mail and text messages was as fast as on any PC.

The PDA's 320X240 pixel screen delivers bright colors and sharp resolution, and we really enjoyed browsing with the thumbwheel on the side of the 8700c. It makes it easy to scroll through Web sites one-handed, and depressing the wheel can be used for opening new links (although you have to click twice to follow a link). The Escape button right below it takes you back one page or screen, so navigating in Web sites or through the operating system is quite simple and intuitive.

The signature backlit keyboard takes up the bottom third of the PDA, and allows for easy thumb typing even in low light. It's not for major compositions, but it's great for e-mail and texting. This PDA also features the BlackBerry Enterprise Solution for secure access to corporate e-mail and applications.

The PDA has a built-in light sensor so it will automatically adjust the backlight of the screen depending on your ambient level of lighting.

RIM has included some great cell phone features in this PDA such as a built-in speakerphone and GSM quad-band coverage for international usage. If you travel overseas, Cingular allows for international roaming.

This 8700c PDA features an Intel XScale processor and 64MB of memory, so it can run mobile applications with ease, including business software providing instant stock quotes, games, and more.

There's a programmable quick access button and a jack for a headset on the left side of the PDA, but the 8700c also features Bluetooth connectivity for using wireless headsets.

RIM delivers another excellent QWERTY-keyboard PDA with their BlackBerry 8700c. If you need a PDA that can be used to keep in touch around the globe or just locally, the BlackBerry 8700c is a great all-around handheld.


Pro: Easy one-handed use, bright screen
Con: Not as many multimedia features as some PDAs

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Research In Motion
295 Phillip Street
Waterloo, Ontario
Canada N2L 3W8
519-888-7465
http://www.blackberry.com

Ratings:
Value: 4
Performance: 4
Ease of Use: 4
Features: 4
Overall: 4

Warranty
1-year limited