PDA Buying Guide

The PDA, or personal digital assistant, offers a variety of mobile computing functions in a package small and light enough to carry around in a pocket or purse. Unlike laptops, PDAs or handhelds generally use special mobile software that is designed to use less memory to store and run. This special software is what allows them to offer so much functionality in such a small package, and files are generally easy to convert to regular formats for transfer to a desktop or laptop computer. A PDA can easily be used to catch up on email, keep track of appointments, work on spreadsheets and documents, and play games like solitaire. There is even software to let your PDA play full length movies!

A PDA is an ideal option for users who need access to data and computing functionality in situations where a laptop would be too cumbersome. They also tend to be significantly less expensive than laptops, so they can be the perfect budget option for users who don't need the full capacity (or size and weight) of a laptop. Of course, there is also the option of using a PDA in addition to a laptop!

What do you want out of a PDA?

• Do you need a fast, convenient and portable way to keep track of appointments and important dates?

• Are you looking for a pocket sized way to browse the Internet, check email, read novels or play games during long plane, train or bus rides?

• Do you need constant easy access to email during the day for work, no matter where your work takes you?

• Are you simply fascinated by the latest gadgets and technology?

There are PDA features and programs to fit almost any need or taste, and options to fit both economy and luxury sized budgets.

Features

Operating System

There are a variety of operating systems available in the PDA market. Some of the major competitors are Windows Mobile, which the Pocket PC platform uses, Palm OS, Blackberry and Symbian OS. Blackberry, of course, runs on Blackberry units, and Symbian OS runs primarily on PDA/phones from Nokia. Windows Mobile and Palm OS are available in a wide range of PDA offerings from several different manufacturers.

One factor to consider when deciding on a PDA operating system is what type of computer the PDA will generally be connecting with, if any. For instance, Palm OS will sync with a Mac out of the box, but a PDA running Windows Mobile might need special set-up to do so. Palm OS runs a wide range of third party software, while Pocket PC is optimized for proprietary Microsoft software.

Although the operating system is a factor to consider, how important the choice is depends on your priorities and how you will use the PDA.

Display

PDA screens are available in a variety of sizes and types of display. Larger screens are more expensive than smaller screens of the same type, but a simple monochrome screen will be less expensive than a color display of the same or even smaller size.

Check the specifications of the PDA for whether it is monochrome or color, but also check for resolution and visibility enhancements like backlighting and contrast adjustments. Be sure to consider what you will be using the PDA for when you decide what is important in the display. Think about what sort of lighting conditions will be likely, as well as what sort of programs will be used.

Expansion

One of the great things about having a PDA is the ability to expand on its onboard capabilities. Many PDA manufacturers also offer accessories that can be attached via ports or wireless connections. Such extras can transform a basic PDA into a camera, phone or GPS unit. Expansion ports can allow you to add a keyboard for easier data input, and extra memory to store large files such as spreadsheets, or music and movies.

Memory

PDAs store permanent files like the operating in ROM - that stands for Read Only Memory, which means that this space isn't available for additional software or files that you may add later. RAM, or Random Access Memory, determines how much space there is to store everything that the user adds, such as third-party software, data files, and media files.

How you intend to use the PDA is the biggest factor in deciding how much RAM you really need. Those who are just storing appointments and contacts, and playing the onboard games, will be fine with the minimum RAM - generally around 2-6MB depending on the operating system. Anyone who wants to store larger files such as music and video, or lots of extra software, will need to look for a PDA with more RAM, or the ability to expand the RAM with memory cards purchased separately.

Audio and Video

Not all PDA models are set up to deal with audio or video playback. If playing music is important, check the PDA specifications for speakers, a headphone jack, and what music formats (such as MP3 or WMA) it supports. Some PDAs come with support for video file formats, although there are also third party programs that can expand this capability. Many PDAs that offer audio playback will also come equipped with a microphone for taking voice notes.

Data Input

An essential tool for using any PDA is the stylus. The stylus is used to tap the touch sensitive screen, and takes the place of both the mouse and the keyboard that are familiar to desktop computer users. The standard way to input data into a PDA is using a stylus to draw stylized letters that the PDA translates into print on the screen. Many PDAs also offer a virtual keyboard option where the user can tap keys on an image of a keyboard on the screen.

Some higher end PDA models offer an integrated keypad or thumbpad. This miniature keyboard can be a convenient alternative to entering letters by stylus. If looking for a PDA with a keyboard, it's highly advised to find a display model in order to try out how the keys feel before buying. Since the keyboards are so small, it can be difficult to hit just one key. Many users find that the stylus or buying a larger separate keyboard is a more practical option.

Wireless Communication

Wireless functions allow PDA users to connect to wireless internet networks in order to check email or surf the internet. Wireless features also allow PDAs to exchange information without needing cumbersome cords and plugs.

The two major formats for using wireless networks are Bluetooth and WiFi, and many PDAs also offer Infrared sensors and transmitters for exchanging data with accessories and other PDAs in visual range. Look for a PDA that offers the format you use the most, or one that supports all of them!

Battery Charging

PDAs generally use rechargeable rather than replaceable batteries. In many cases, the docking cradle that connects the PDA to your computer will also connect it to a wall plug for easy charging when it's not in use. If you plan to travel with your PDA, look for a travel cord that allows you to plug it in anywhere without needing to lug the docking cradle along.

Battery life varies widely between different models. In general, the more functionality you are using, the shorter the battery life will be. Wireless connectivity and video playback both drain batteries quickly. Check the battery specifications for both standby and active life spans.

Size

PDAs come in a wide range of sizes, from those that fit easily in a pocket to larger versions that need a purse or carrying case. Basic PDAs are often smaller, and features such as a keyboard or a larger screen will increase the size of the unit. Larger batteries often last longer, but can make the PDA heavier than otherwise comparable models.

How it Feels

When deciding on a PDA to buy, don't forget to consider how it feels to hold and use.

• Is the stylus easy to grip and manipulate?

• Is the screen easy to read in different lighting levels.

• Is the body of the PDA a comfortable size and weight for you to hold?

Even if you decide to purchase from an online vendor, it can be useful to find a store with display models to try out. It can also be advantageous to look for user reviews of the models you are interested in. While personal experiences will vary, looking at several reviews can give you an idea of what using the PDA day to day will be like.

Price

Prices for PDAs vary widely, and the same model may be available for different prices from different vendors. In general, more features mean a more expensive PDA, but by checking and comparing different models it's usually possible to get the features you want within a budget that works for you.

In general, basic models with monochrome screens and basic functionality will cost around $100 to $200.

Mid-range units with more features and functionality range generally between $200 and $400.

High end units may cost $400 to $1000 or more.