Choosing a PDA that's Right for You

Choosing a PDA that's Right for You [PDA Ipad pocketpc]

Today's personal data assistants (PDAs) have developed into a device more like a mini-computer than the simple data storage devices they once were. With the ever growing list of features and applications, these little wonders offer true computer power on the go.

For those new to the world of PDAs it is best to do a little research and familiarize yourself with as many of the features as you can before you walk into the retail outlet to make your purchase. When choosing which PDA is right for you, there are a number of things that you need to consider such as:

Types
The two main types of PDA are the Palm OS and the Microsoft Pocket PC. Your choice between the two will be determined by a number of factors such as the intended purpose, your budget, and what type of home computer you have. For connectivity purposes, if you own a Mac computer then a Microsoft Pocket PC will not be compatible, so you will need to select a Palm OS style of PDA.

Other than compatibility issues your choice of PDA comes down to your personal requirements. Palm OS models are less expensive, smaller, lighter, and use less battery power than Microsoft Pocket PC versions; however Microsoft Pocket PC models tend to have a far greater range of multimedia capabilities and more memory.


CPU Speed
Continued advances have enabled today's PDAs to typically have CPU clock speeds of around 300MHz and some newer models can even have a clock speed of up to 624MHz. Unless you only intend to use your PDA for basic tasks such as storing phone numbers etc, then try to purchase a model with the fastest CPU within your budget. [PDA Ipad pocketpc]


Memory
Memory is another important consideration when choosing a PDA as all the data stored on the device is stored in the memory. As with CPU speed the more memory a particular PDA model has the more expensive it will be. As a guide, for basic data storage you can get away with as little as 16MB; email applications and running basic software programs require at least 32MB; multimedia and internet applications need around 64 MB, although for optimal performance 128MB or more would be best if your budget stretches that far. It's also a good idea to check that there is an expansion slot available to enable you to plug in some extra memory if you need it.


Connectivity
The infrared connectivity features of today's PDAs give the user a convenient method of sharing files with another PDA or even the home computer. This easy information exchange capability eliminates the need for each business associate to type information into their respective PDAs in the case of business data, or for personal uses there is no need to type the PDA data into your home computer as it can easily be transferred using the infrared connection.

Some PDAs may have a cable connection instead of infrared and in such cases it is wise to check that it comes with the correct cable and software to connect to your computer before you make the purchase. Also remember to ask the retailer if these accessories are included in the pack or if they cost extra. Some PDA models even have a re-charger built into a cradle that connects the PDA to your PC which allows you to re-charge the device while you are transferring data to your PC.


Batteries
PDAs come with either of two battery options, which are the standard replaceable type and the permanent type. The better quality PDAs tend to come with the later, although even the less expensive versions are increasingly opting for the rechargeable battery type nowadays.


Screens
Some of the latest models of PDA come with high quality color screens which are great for watching videos etc although at present they are only in the more expensive models. For those on limited budgets the standard models come with good sized backlit screens which are more than adequate. [PDA Ipad pocketpc]


Once you have a good overall understanding of the variety of features to choose from when looking to buy a new PDA, you'll be able to make an informed decision and be far more likely to choose a PDA that suits your exact requirements as well as your budget.

by Colin Wolfenden