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).

Quick Facts Type, Release date ...
IBM WorkPad
Thumb
WorkPad c3
TypePDA
Release dateJune 1997; 27 years ago (1997-06)
Discontinued2002; 22 years ago (2002)
Operating systemPalm OS 2.0 - 4.1 (PDA)
Windows CE (WorkPad Z50)
CPUMotorola 68328 (16-33 MHz)
Memory2-8 MB
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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

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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

References

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