The @ctiveLink module connects to a ReFLEX wireless network and transfers data at an average of 9.6 KB per second. The ReFLEX wireless network provides the broadest coverage and best in-building penetration. No dialup or login is required, and you can leave the @ctiveLink connected to the network even when the module is removed from the Visor. It is powered by two AAA batteries and also includes a backup Ni-Cad battery that maintains module power and protects stored messages if the AAA batteries' power becomes too low.

When the @ctiveLink module is inserted into the Visor's Springboard expansion slot, its three embedded applications automatically start up and are automatically downloaded into the handheld. The @ctiveLink application is the main window for your wireless services, showing network connection and available applications. It will also display pending messages and the unit's battery level.

BeamLink is the two-way messaging application that enables you to compose, read, and send e-mail. You can attach items such as addresses, appointments, to-do notes, and memos to messages you send. If you send an attachment to someone else who uses BeamLink, they can save that attachment onto their Visor. If you send an attachment to a non-Palm OS user, contents are simply listed within the e-mail. Messages that are received are downloaded into the Visor when the module is inserted.

InfoBeam provides a collection of Internet query applications that allow the device to request and receive information on demand from a variety of Internet sources--from stock quotes, sports, and news updates to weather reports and airline flight information. Other services include the ability to track FedEx and UPS packages and search phone directories (white and yellow pages). Note that you cannot view Web sites with InfoBeam. Also, information is automatically downloaded from the inserted @ctiveLink module to the Visor and deleted when the module is removed (@ctiveLink and BeamLink applications remain in the Visor's memory even when the module is removed).

The @ctiveLink module can be used much like a pager--even when removed from the Visor, it will continue to receive and store messages as long as it is turned on and is in network range. A green LED on the front of the module shows that its power is on. If the green light blinks fast, new messages have been received. Messages that are received are downloaded into the Visor when it's inserted.

Important note to customers: The Glenayre @ctiveLink Wireless Messaging Module requires a minimum $24.95 monthly wireless service option through Metrocall. An activation card with details is included in the box. For information on Metrocall's nationwide coverage, call the customer service department at (800) 318-8796.

My complaint is the form factor. It sits on top of the handspring and makes it taller and fatter. So, it will not fit into standard palm cases without removing the module. The module doesn't include a belt clip so it just kinda floats around. If it would have been a smoother form factor I would have given it 4 stars. If it had a better form factor and the underlying networks would allow bigger emails I would have given it 5 stars. It is worth mentioning that SMS (cellular) devices only allow 120 character emails, which is a joke.


Great device with true push ability   June 9, 2001
 8 out of 9 found this comment useful.

I really like this device because of the very braod network coverage, I don't think there is another wireless service that can compare coveragewise. I especially like the ability to truely push info to the device. Since it's always on and always checking to see you if have any inbound information, as soon as it recives the info it lets you know. You don't have to start it up, wait to connect and then check to see if you have anything that came in. The built in software automatically installs in the Visor when you put it in the springboard slot the first time so you never have to worry about your Visor crashing and not being able to comunicate because as soon as you put the device back in, the software will load up again and you are ready to communicate within seconds. Built in software lets you track packages, get weather, get stock quotes, directions, all sorts of stuff. Better get rechargeable batteries though if you use it like I do.