Going beyond the simple organizer mind-set requires an input method that enables quick, accurate, data entry. As Palm-sized PC users, we're blessed with this. Call it the elusive killer app if you must, but mark my words, Calligrapher is the REAL missing piece to the Windows CE puzzle. And Microsoft has realized that. Last month they announced the purchase of the Calligrapher engine from Vandem/Paragraph, and had invested in the company. So I wouldn't be too surprised if the next version of the operating system has Calligrapher built-in. And as much as the naysayers and detractors will want to poo-poo the new release, they will be forced to acknowledge the power and functionality that Calligrapher brings to the platform.

Does Calligrapher have any problems?
Sure, there are still a few glitches. Switching between taps and input can sometimes be a little kludgy. Ones (1s) are often translated as capital 'I's. And although I haven't experienced it, some people report a noticeable system slow-down when Calligrapher is installed. But all of these nits pale when you harness the power that Calligrapher adds to the platform. Using Calligrapher makes the need for those nifty folding keyboards moot. It becomes a joy to input data rather than a chore. It just works.

So the next time you whip out your Palm-sized PC to show off its nifty features, forget about the MP3, the 64K color display, and that expensive compact flash hard drive. Hand the person your device, its stylus, and invite them to just write.

Clifford Brooks can be reached via email at clifford_brooks@dl.com.