Fully Mobile?The new features that are being released almost every day in the wireless hand held computer field makes choice more than a little difficult. But here's a rundown of features that you should review before you run out and buy a handheld PC. Microsoft makes a scaled version of its Windows operating system for Pocket PCs called Windows CE, and Palm has it's own operating system called Palm OS. Your best bet, is to chose a device with an OS that you already know. Pocket PCs are a good choice if you have Windows on your PC. Depending on what you need the handheld PC for will determine what you need. if you want to run word processing or other processing applications, you have to have an OS like Windows CE that can handle it. What other handheld devices are you going to be using? Windows CE only works with Windows PCs. That alone may determine you're going with Microsoft products. Handheld PC's are not any different than your desktop in terms of memory requirements. In terms of basic memory (RAM), the more you have allows you to run more applications and store files. Typically , handheld PC's will run 32MB - 64MB and that may be OK. Before you buy check the maximum memory configuration because you don't know what you may want to run later on Future functionality is important and you want to be forward looking in your planning. A secondary type of memory that is inserted into the device as a slide-in card like Memory Stick, Secure Digital (SD), and Multimedia Memory Cards (MMC). Make sure that you know what your device is capable of handling. If your familiar with today's digital cameras, you know what I'm talking about. The size and weight of the unit are important. Much depends on how you will use it and transport it. The likelihood is that the thinner and lighter it is the more expensive it will be. Monitors follow the desktops pretty much. Color is easier to read and is more expensive. Some are designed for outdoor use and have anti glare features. The resolutions vary and range from 160x160 to 240x320. Again your pocketbook may determine the one you pick. Looking down the road, pick a unit with integrated expansion slots and ensure you know the unit will take the type of cards you may want to use. Battery technology is advancing but you should check the run times of the device. Before you buy, check the keyboard size, operating systems, and add-ons. Are you OK with using a stylus as the primary method of data entry? Is there a thumb board? Does the unit allow external keyboard or pointing devices? The main thing to remember is how you plan to use this aid and where are you going in the near to mid future? Does this unit fit those plans? |