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TRAVELING EXECUTIVES looking to cut the cord on their e-mail habit have lots of choices these days. I looked at three of the latest wireless e-mail devices - the Palm VII, the Touchpoint phone with a built-in Web browser from Sprint PCS and an updated two-way pager from Research in Motion Ltd. All three do more than wireless e-mail, of course: You can jot down notes, keep track of your schedule and, in the case of Touchpoint, make cellular phone calls.
Although each unit has its frustrations and problems, all are improvements over the trio of devices I reviewed Feb. 15.
I've used one form or another of wireless e-mail for more than eight years and suggest that you consider the following:
Can you get e-mail on these devices with the same corporate e-mail account that you use on your desktop? Most devices require some effort and some combination of software and services to do this.
How much skill is required to type a typical reply message? None of the devices is as handy as a fullsize keyboard. You should try one out before buying to make sure you're comfortable with its controls and key layouts.
Do these devices work indoors and in out-of-the-way places? All three I tested work best outdoors and in major metropolitan areas. The farther inside buildings and away from the city you take them, the worse the radio reception gets. This is just physics.
Is the price reasonable and predictable? All the devices come with an array of monthly service plans and fees. Make sure you understand...