New T665 - Any hints or Tip or must have software

[cxpalam0]

I have just purchased a T665 (it will arrive early next week) and i am wondering if there are any hint and tip for the this model..

I have not had a PDA for many years after using an old Sharp orgainser!

Is there any thing that i should buy (i am getting a 16mb MS and a free sony leather case as part of the run out offer)

Also is there any must have software that I should get now (hacks etc)


Thanks in advance.

[galaxygrrl]

Oh, no one had answered you.

I think there are only two musts and then the rest depends on what you want to do.

A launcher -- here are a few Yishow, zLauncher, megalauncher. This is utility that lets you organize your programs and runs programs easily. The newer one's let you change the wallpaper and icons on your desktop.

An better dateboo -- the two out there are Datebk5 and Agendus.

All of these have a 30 free trial, so when you get you're Clie, just don't load them.

Oh, migh was invest in a 128 MB Memory stick soon because you'll want it.

Beth

[aaronrkelly]

A case, run - dont walk- and get a good case. Good doesnt necesarily mean expensive to me - it means one that is comfortable to use. I have a T615 and use a cheap Belkins flip but I like it and its comfortable for me. I havent seen the one Sony includes, it might be very nice.

Another must (in my opinion) is screen protectors....cheap and they save you from scratching your screen. Again I use the cheap Belkins....I change them about every 4 to 6 months and there are 12 in a package. There are nicer ones out there (Brando etc), again this is personal preference.

I have mixed feelings about the launcher - I use YiShow but believe that if you are a new palm user you are better off getting to now the machine and the OS before you go adding more/different functionality that the launcher offers. Its will just add more complication until you learn the OS (operating system). There are several discussions on a regular basis about which launcher to use - the most common are YiShow and MegaLauncher. They both have their good points.

A datebook replacement (as previously mentioned) is a good purchase (if you use your palm for such). I use Agendus (still have an older version) and it definitely is an improvement over the built in app. It integrate your contacts, to dos and appointments all into one program. Another handy program I use thats FREE is Today 1.8 - this is a simple program that replicates the Today screen on a PocketPC (the only good thing they had, IMO). It shows you everything to do today....you cant beat the price. Go to PalmGear and check it out.

Memory sticks are handy as well, especially if you get hooked on a launcher that supports backgrounds. The mem stick allows you to save all your background images and skins - a must with a launcher. You can also put mp3 on it and play them with the T665 - 128 MB is the only way to go here. It will hold your data, programs and a few mp3 for when you get bored.

[bobbd]

After 2 1/2 years with a Palm IIIc, I bought a T665 at Christmas. My suggestion is to spend a couple of weeks with the default applications to get used to the basics. Read the manuals etc.

Then start experimenting with the replacements. Decide what's important to you. You may find that you change how you do things over time. The beauty is that there is so much great software out there for relatively low prices. And there's lots of great freeware as well.

Do get screen protection fast. Be very careful until you do. I went for the G2. Others prefer the Brando/Innopocket/Sony. There are a few screen protector threads here.

As for a case, decide how you're going to use it. There are metal and leather cases. Do you need a case that works with the cradle? Are you going to carry it with you all the time or throw it in a briefcase. If you're taking it out of the case all the time, you want something easy. I put mine in the cradle at work and at home plus I sometimes carry it in my shirt pocket. I have a E&B leather case that I had for my Palm, so I put the T665 in it when I carry it in my briefcase. Otherwise, I don't bother with a case. I'm considering the PocketSolutions Flip Cover.

Once you use it for a week or so, decide whether you like the stylus. Most people don't. They find it too light and too thin. Unfortunately if you want one that fits in the silo, it's going to be thin. The best replacements seem to be the InnoPocket and PDAPanache. I bought the InnoPocket (not the 3 in 1). It's about twice the weight and feels much better, but still too thin. I also bought a 3-pack of the PDAPanache stick stylus. I leave them on my desk at work and at home. They're just like stick pens except with a stylus point. Much better for a lot of graffiti.

Pick up a 128Meg MS. You'll use it.

I also suggest reading the forums here. There are lots of topics and great advice.

And above all - have fun with it.

Bob

[wellsjs]

Check out PalmGear at: www.palmgear.com

There you can "try before you buy" most apps, and most are fully enabled demos. I recommend you browse the "Essentials" and "top 50 all time/month" sections to see what's hot. If the description appeals to you, download it and test drive it and buy after you're sure! ;)

[ScottLP]

Do yourself a favor, and get a backup program. I use back-up buddy and have it set to back up daily.

FYI: I do not use a case (even though I have ones from my 610 which would fit) and keep the PDA in my front pants pocket. I also do not have a launcher which I think is really only necessary if you have a lot of programs.

[exppcguy]

Originally posted by ScottLP
Do yourself a favor, and get a backup program. I use back-up buddy and have it set to back up daily.

My T665 has come with MS Backup, which seems to run fine. Why would you want to use back-up buddy?

[aaronrkelly]

It allows you to schedule backups as well as encrypt them....I have mine setup to backup my palm 5 minutes after midnight everyday. My palms turns on, does a backup and turns off. Kinda handy.