IBM WorkPad

Last updated
IBM WorkPad
IBM Workpad c3.jpg
WorkPad c3
Type PDA
Release dateJune 1997;27 years ago (1997-06)
Discontinued2002;22 years ago (2002)
Operating system Palm OS 2.0 - 4.1 (PDA)
Windows CE (WorkPad Z50)
CPU Motorola 68328 (16-33 MHz)
Memory2-8 MB

IBM WorkPad was a line of portable devices, produced by Palm Inc. and branded by IBM. [1] This line contained personal digital assistants (PDAs) and one subnotebook model (WorkPad Z50).

Contents

Overview

This line was released in 1997 [2] and discontinued in 2002. [3] [1] After discontinuation of its self-branded line, IBM still offers the main Palm line on its site. [4]

This IBM-branded line of PDAs were rebranded PalmPilots, with only a few software improvements (easy sync for Lotus Notes, DB2 EveryPlace, and IBM Mobile Connect). [5]

Reception

Early WorkPad PDAs were received positively, similar to parallel Palm models; [6] [7] but later this conservative business-oriented line lacked notability, [8] and multimedia options of latest models were described as relatively poor. [9]

Models

WorkPad Z50 - 1999, subnotebook/thin client, powered by Windows CE, equipped with an NEC MIPS processor and with an 8.2" screen. [10]

PDAs

WorkPad 30X IBM WorkPad 8602 30X open.jpg
WorkPad 30X

All WorkPad PDAs have a similar gray-scale screen (with better resolution and contrast for C series, but with same physical size and similar layout); only the c505 model has a color screen. The WorkPad 30X can be upgraded to a Japanese version, using the Open Extension slot. [11] [12]

WorkPad - 1997, rebadged PalmPilot

WorkPad 20X - 1998, rebadged Palm III

WorkPad 30X - 1999, rebadged Palm IIIx

WorkPad 30J - 1999, [13] Japanese version of 30X [14]

WorkPad 31J - 2000, same as 30J, but with PHS broadband module. [12]

WorkPad 31A - 2000, version of 31J with locked phone operator. [12]

C series with new thin, sleek metal case:

WorkPad c3 -1999/2000, rebadged Palm V/Vx; also known as WorkPad 40J and WorkPad 50J.

WorkPad c500 -2001, rebadged Palm m500; also known as WorkPad 60U.

WorkPad c505 -2001, rebadged Palm m505; also known as WorkPad 70J.

Accessories

Most WorkPad PDAs can use the same peripherals as the PalmPilot; for example, the external keyboard available for some models, and most WorkPads can be attached to a cradle for charging or connection to a PC; the WorkPad can be attached to a Palm cradle, and vice versa.

Some WorkPads (and sibling Palm models) can be attached to some ThinkPad laptops, using an Ultrabay cradle; [15] This would be the Palm V, m500, m505, and the WorkPad c500 and c505 models.

See also

Related Research Articles

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References

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