Touchbase WorldPort 2496; specifications and reviews for three portable PC-based fax units - Hardware Review - Touchbase Systems Inc.'s Touchbase WorldPort 2496 facsimile - evaluation

Home Office Computing, Jan, 1991

Specifications and Reviews for Three Portable PC-Based Fax Units

Touchbase WorldPort 2496

Rating * * * List price $699 Manufacturer; phone Touchbase Systems, Inc.; (516) 261-0423 Hardware requirements 512K IBM compatible with hard-disk drive and serial port; telephone line with standard modular connector; DOS 3.1 or later; graphics card recommended Transmission speed (Fax) 9600 bps; (data) 2400 bps Features Automatic fax/data switching; built-in text editor; acoustic coupler interface File formats supported ASCII, .PCX Dimensions 5 by 2.75 by 1 inches Weight 7.5 ounces (including replaceable 9-volt battery) Review Touchbase Systems' WorldPort 2496 is remarkable as much for its dual functionality as for its physical compactness. This tiny unit operates not only as a 9600 bps Group 3 send/receive fax, but also as a data modem at speeds of up to 2400 bps. Weighing just a few ounces and easily able to slip into a shirt pocket, it seems like an ideal traveling companion.

The 2496 software (supplied on 5.25-and 3.5-inch disks) isn't fancy, but it is easy to set up and learn and it does the job neatly. I liked it. The package supports an easy-to-edit, easy-to-use dialing directory that holds both fax numbers and data numbers. While the 2496 package doesn't automatically prepare a cover sheet, it does allow you to send more than one document in a single transmission, so you can make your own. A handy "express fax" feature lets you compose a quick message (with a built-in editor) and fax it off immediately.

Sending and receiving faxes with this unit was problem-free (as was sending files in data mode). The quality of the sent and received faxes was slightly lower than that of The Complete Fax/Portable's, but was certainly within the acceptable range. The WorldPort supports Epson FX and HP LaserJet printers --and their many compatibles.

The unit comes packed with a 9-volt battery, an AC adapter, compact softcover manuals for hardware and software, and a free trial subscription to the GEnie on-line information service.