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PRODUCT REVIEW
The Franklin Electronic ROLODEX, an inexpensive and very functional PDA substitute
By Jason Giacchino
What a modern day paradox organization can be. I came to this conclusion firsthand by juggling files and reminders across several pieces of hardware of varying sizes and operating system compatibilities: PDAs, tablets, notebooks, and desktops. It doesn't take long to require an organizer for all of one's organizers! And although quick to get carried away by the latest and greatest of electronic trends myself, I find a recurring question in my inbox that warrants some serious consideration: what about your basic organizer?
A user-friendly interface on top of a functional OS, nothing fancy; no MP3 playback, no full color LCD, no WiFi, Bluetooth or infrared, no built-in digital camera, not another jack-of-all-trades cell phone. Apparently the "latest and greatest" line of thinking causes the press to often overlook the practicality and budget-friendly nature of a true electronic organizer. Manufacturers such as Royal and Franklin haven't abandoned such devices in favor of feature-rich, ultra expensive technological terrors, instead choosing to keep a healthy lineup of electronic organization tools that deserve a closer look.
Naturally at the root of any mobile computing device exists the potential for organization, but constant advancements in technology and portability equal handhelds capable of so much more. This brings to mind the question, "Can too much of a good thing ever really be too much?"
For the sake of simplicity, that answer is, "Yes." Although it's nice to be able to watch movies, listen to music, send email, and surf the Net from the middle seat on the bus, sometimes the temptation of so much entertainment can distract from the practicality of truly using a handheld device for organization; as a means to simplify. Fortunately, electronic organizers are tools designed with simplicity of operation in the forefront, applets that favor function over form, and a host of handy functions that are often reduced or removed entirely on higher end units.
If you've ever considered a PDA but rejected the notion in favor of the simplicity and reliability of the traditional pen and paper method of keeping yourself on track, read on. I took a step away from the clutter on my work desk that disguises itself as a means to simplify my agenda, and devoted several weeks of use to Franklin's ROLODEX RT-8214 touch-screen handheld organizer in Figure A, and what I discovered may surprise even the most savvy of mobile computing devotees.
FIGURE A
 
What could the ROLODEX RT-8214 do that my Tablet PC can't? Roll over picture for a larger image.
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