Interestingly, the Palm developer's site has a hardware comparison matrix (at http://www.palmos.com/dev/tech/hardware/compare.html) that also lists the Sony CLIE PEG-S500c, which I'm assuming is a forthcoming product, probably supporting color (you heard it here, first)! Given that the other color devices have their own unique HotSync interface, we can expect yet another new HotSync interface with this device.

There has been some deliberate differentiation between manufacturers in this area. For example, the Visor shipped with USB HotSync as a way to differentiate itself. But, in the main, the HotSync (and charging, keyboard, and modem) interface has found itself changing from device to device as a side effect of new aspects of each model.

Finally, there's even been an attempt to bridge HotSync interfaces between models using a device aptly named The Bridge (at http://www.midwestpcbdesigns.com/products.htm). This gadget (workable, but a bit clumsy) connects Palm V devices to Palm III accessories.

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This incompatibility of HotSync cradles is a double-edged sword. On one edge, the cost of upgrading accessories keeps customers from moving from manufacturer to manufacturer. On the other hand, the cost of upgrading accessories also keeps customers from upgrading within Palm's own product line. If you've got to pony up another $150 or more in add-ons after the cost of buying a new Palm device, you're going to have some second thoughts.

I think it's time Palm took some leadership here and established a HotSync standard for all new devices. Let manufacturers compete and differentiate themselves at the other end of the unit. But make sure all devices can share basic peripherals.

Granted there's no easy way to grandfather all the devices out there and keep costs at a reasonable level. But start now. Work with manufacturers for products due out in a year and establish that all products coming out after 2002 will share a common interface.

If PC manufacturers can agree on USB (Universal Serial Bus) and PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect), the few Palm device vendors can establish a HotSync interface standard.

If you have strong feelings about this issue, post a note on the PowerBoards (the link is at the end of this article) or contact your favorite device manufacturers. Standardization will help grow this exciting market even more. Fractured standards lead to anarchy, and, well, the Pocket PC.