Sony PEG-N760C Clie Handheld

Rather than CompactFlash or SmartMedia, the Clié N760C uses Sony's own Memory Stick cards for expanding memory. While more expensive than other forms of media, they can be used in a variety of Sony devices, from MP3 players to digital cameras. If you're a Sony aficionado and already have other Sony peripherals, it won't be a tough transition to the Clié. Unfortunately, while the costs of SmartMedia and CompactFlash cards have dropped recently, proprietary Sony Memory Sticks have stayed much higher.

Although the N760C ships with only a total 16 MB memory (8 MB internal memory and 8 MB via a Memory Stick), it can be upgraded as high as you're willing to spend for additional sticks. The N760C treats the inserted Memory Stick as a removable drive, making it an easy way to transfer data from your PC and other peripherals, such as digital cameras or camcorders. The interface on the base of the N760C, used to connect to the AC adapter or the USB docking station, can also be used to connect a Clié modem.

The thin gray and silver unit weighs less than six ounces and fits snugly in the palm of your hand. The nifty Jog Dial scroll wheel sits right under your thumb, letting you switch between applications, move from one audio track to another, and even fast-forward or reverse during video playback. A removable leather face cover protects the N760C while it's in a pocket and flips up out of the way easily.

Sony includes an extensive software bundle with the N760C, from games like Acid Solitaire and Race Fever to interactive maps in Rand McNally's StreetFinder Express and Amy Reiley's Pocket Gourmet and Pocket Vineyard, with tips on tipping and sipping.

The 16-bit color, high-resolution screen works well for gaming as well as watching small video clips (again, you'll need to beef up the Memory Stick to take advantage of the media player). The audio software on the Clié can play MP3 files, and the attachable in-line remote control (which features a shirt clip and also doubles as a stylus) handles playback functions and volume control. The headphones can plug into the Clié or pass through the remote control.

The lithium-ion rechargeable battery juices up in less than four hours initially and will last up to 15 days for normal use (although if you're playing a lot of audio files it will drain much faster).

You'll need to spend at least another $75 to $120 to get a large-enough Memory Stick to make it worthwhile as a full MP3 player. But even with that additional cost, the Clié N760C offers enough functionality and entertainment value to make it worth consideration. --J. Curtis

Pros:

• Bright, 16-bit color display
• Built-in MP3 audio player
• Headphones and remote control
• Compatible with thousands of Palm OS programs

• Memory Sticks not cheap

The Sony Clié handheld runs on the proven, reliable Palm operating system, which means it comes complete with all the standard Palm OS applications you need for organizing your life. It comes with Date Book, To Do List, Memo Pad, Mail, and Expense tools, and the Sony-enhanced Address Book that enables you to add photos to your contacts listings.

It also features a wide range of fun and productivity applications, including StreetFinder Express from Rand McNally for interactive maps, Vindigo city guides, Amy Reiley's Pocket Vineyard and Pocket Gourmet, and games such as Acid Solitaire and Race Fever. Plus, the Clié is fully compatible with thousands of Palm OS add-on applications available for download.

Connect to your PC and synchronize your contacts and date book using the included USB cradle. You can also beam information to other Palm OS handheld owners using the IrDA infrared port.

The Sony Clié PEG-N760C comes with a number of exclusive Sony features. The Jog Dial navigator allows you to access images, phone numbers, notes, even video clips, while keeping your other hand free. And you get virtually unlimited data storage with Sony's Memory Stick removable media. Transfer digital content between your Clié handheld and other Memory Stick-compatible products, including digital cameras, digital camcorders, and PCs.

Listen to your favorite music with the built-in audio player. Simply load MP3 audio files onto Memory Stick media and take your newest albums with you anywhere. The Clié handheld comes equipped with headband-free headphones and an inline remote controller. You can also watch video clips on the high-resolution 320 x 320 reflective color LCD screen.

The Sony Clié is compatible with Microsoft Windows 98, 98 SE, 2000 Professional, and Me, and connects to your PC using the USB port. It comes with headphones, audio remote controller, USB HotSync cradle (which also charges the lithium polymer battery), detachable AC adapter, 8 MB Memory Stick, stylus, and a protective cover.

What's in the box

• Sony Clie Handheld
• Headphones
• Audio Remote Controller
• USB HotSync Cradle
• Detachable AC Adapter
• Memory Stick (8MB)
• Stylus
• Sony CLII Installation CD-ROM
• Read This First
• Registration Notice
• Add-on Application Guide
• Graffiti Sticker
• Protective Cover

The MP3 function is very useful, but the 8MB card provided is insufficient for this purpose. I suggest buying a 128MB stick made by a third-party, like Lexar, for around $50-60.

Battery Life:

Since I bought my model refurbished, I don't know how the PDA would perform if it were new. I am suspicious about the battery life. Sony promises something like 10hrs of performance with the screen off for the mp3 player, but it's more like 5 in real life. What this means is that you only get 2-3 days of use off a full charge. I mean, this is plenty for me for day to day tasks. However, I hesistate to take it with me in a long flight or overseas because it's difficult to recharge. I wish it came with a removable, rechargable battery.

Construction:

The construction is really nice, but don't drop it. I dropped it from about 2-3 feet onto carpet and while it still works, the memory stick slot doesn't hold the card in. It uses spring action, so now to keep the card in, I put a piece of tape over the slot to secure the stick.

Its fairly sturdy, but after repeated use, the screen loses some accuracy. It's some sort of two layered plastic which can, over time, cause innacuracy in pointing at things. Graffiti works fine though. Just be sure to buy a protective cover. I didn't and now I have scratches in the grafitti writing area which is

Also, it looks metallic, but only the front plate is brushed aluminum. The backside is painted plastic.

Accessories:

The lack of accessories for Sony handhelds is a problem, so don't expect to upgrade it in any way. I would like a hardcase, but no one, except hobbyists, make them. Also, until very recently, there was no keyboard for the CLIE. The one they have now is a thumb keyboard and that's no good at all.

Wonderful handheld with plenty of power   November 20, 2002
1 out of 2 found this review helpful

This unit is probably the closest thing you can get to a Pocket PC without having a Pocket PC (this is a palm on steroids!)
The built-in mp3 player is wonderful (nice remote and headphones too) and the screen is just phenominal. The screen is at least as great as my computer screen (the high resolution and 65,356 colors). It has a fast processor as well. I really appriciate the expandable memory stick slot as well. The software Sony put on this is really great, the picture viewer and movie player
(this thing even came with two music videos!). It's one of the best Palm-OS units you can buy in my opinion. It also looks really cool with that brushed aluminum!