Beginner's Guide to Handheld Electronics

SMS

2006-07-26T20:21:44Z

What is a Palmtop?

2006-08-14T16:16:43Z

A Palmtop is another word used for the Handheld PC. A Handheld PC is a Microsoft term for a computer that is smaller than a standard notebook or laptop. A true Handheld PC uses a Platform Release of the Microsoft Windows CE operating system. The Handheld PC, or Palmtop, was the original hardware for PDA devices that ran Windows CE. The Palmtop was first introduced in 1996 as a "PC companion device". It was marketed as being able to provide familiar PC applications in a portable format.

A palmtops touch-sensitive screen is as easy to read as a memo pad, but is much more practical. With a palmtop, you can store thousands of contacts, create and update your calendar, and keep detailed lists of things to do. Palmtops also have optional software that enables users to send and receive e-mail, connect to the Internet, read books, listen to music, play games, and more. Palmtops are compatible with PCs, so it's easy to transfer information from one to the other. Palmtops are usually very thin and have a large LCD screen that either displays color, or generic black on green.

Although some palmtops are similar to personal digital assistants in that they accept handwritten or touch screen input, they differ in that the palmtop has more memory, a keyboard, and a greater variety of available programs. For a device to be classified as a palmtop, it must:

• Run Microsoft Windows CE (Handheld PC Platform Release)
• Be bundled with an application suite found only through an OEM Platform Release and not in Windows CE itself
• Use ROM
• Have a screen supporting a resolution of greater than 480x240
• Include a keyboard
• Include a CompactFlash Slot
• Include a PCMCIA Slot
• Include an infrared (IrDA) port
• Provide wired serial and/or USB connectivity

Palmtop Functions

2006-08-14T16:17:56Z

Palmtops have a variety of functions. From storing personal information, to communication, to entertainment, the palmtop is the quintessential tool for a business traveler. Most palmtops are equipped to help organize a schedule, maintain a to-do list, and save contact information. The amount of information a palmtop can hold depends on how much memory it comes with. Most palmtops can store hundreds of contacts, numbers, email addresses and many other types of information. Some palmtops can even be used as memo pads since they are equipped to read your handwriting and store it in memory. Most palmtops come with a built-in calculator and some even have a clock with world time zones, which you can use for appointment alarms. Palmtops can also synchronize with your PC, so you can transfer information between the two and keep them both up to date.

Palmtops also have the ability to send and receive e-mail and connect to the Internet. Although most Palmtops don't come with modems, you can purchase a modem card or a wireless card. There are also adapters and other devices available that can snap onto some Palmtops for sending and receiving e-mail, like PocketMail.

With some palmtops, you can also read books, listen to music, view photos, play games, and read maps. Some units also have extra ports for a microphone or headphones, and many palmtops even come in flashy colors.

Types of Palmtops

2006-08-14T16:18:17Z

Palmtops have changed significantly from their first introduction to the world. Today's palmtops have more RAM, more room for storage, are slim and lightweight, and can perform a variety of multimedia functions. Most have an average of 8MB of RAM and can connect to computers through a USB port. The memory capacity and functions vary from brand to brand.

The very first palmtop was simply called "Palm". When these devices were introduced, they were grayscale handheld organizers. Today, Palm has many different organizers on the market, including some with color screens. Most have between 2MB and 8MB of RAM and up to 8 MB of internal memory. They operate with the Palm operating system. Some Palms are compatible with both PCs and Macs, and others are compatible only with PCs. Accessories for the Palm include an attachable full-size keyboard for data entry and Back Flip for e-mail access. Palms operate with regular alkaline batteries.

The Pocket PC is a new advancement in the world of Palmtops. The term Pocket PC was coined by Casio, who currently manufactures them in a variety of colors. Pocket PCs operate with Windows CE, which offer limited versions of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Money. They come with 16MB of RAM and a 150MHz processor. Most Pocket PCs also have a slot for Multimedia cards with up to 64 MB of storage. They run on rechargeable Lithium batteries and connect with PCs with a USB port.

Handspring palmtops are similar to Palms in that they use the Palm operating system and have the ability to file share with other Palms. They have all the basic features of Palms, but with some added functionality. Handsprings can be turned into digital cameras or GPS units. They can connect to both PCs and Macs with a USB interface. Handsprings are available in various colors with grayscale LCD screens and operate with 2 AAA batteries.

There are several other types of Palmtop devices as well. The iPaq is manufactured by Compaq and comes with 32MB of RAM and a 206MHz processor. It also comes with pocket versions of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Explorer, and Windows Media Player. They are equipped with an iPaq modem and are able to connect to PCs with a USB or Serial port. Another type of Palmtop is the Sony Clie. Clies come with up to 8MB of RAM, a neat jog control wheel, and are memory-stick compatible. The Sony Clie works on the Palm operating system and uses touch-screen interface. The Clie also works with Windows 98/2000/Me on the PC.

For those who don't need all the function of a palmtop, but want a personal organizer, there are several handheld devices available that come with a built-in keypad for data entry. These devices can store addresses and phone numbers and other types of information just like a palmtop. Personal organizers are usually less expensive than palmtops and are made by Psion, Rolodex, Casio, Sharp, Seiko, Royal, and Xircom, among other manufacturers.

Choosing a Palmtop

2006-08-14T16:18:41Z

If you are considering purchasing a palmtop, think of all the advantages that it offers. It offers fast and accurate handwriting recognition. You have your information with you at all times. They are relatively inexpensive. You can transfer data between your palmtop and your PC. The most important thing to consider when choosing a palmtop is whether or not it fits in with your lifestyle. For people who rarely travel, a palmtop may not be necessary. However, if you are frequently on the road and are tired of carrying around a bulky laptop, a palmtop may be just what you need.

When choosing your palmtop, take the following things into consideration:

• How much do you want to spend?
• What features do you want?
• Are you likely to abuse it?
• Are you on the road a lot?
• Will it replace a palm-top or other palm-sized device?

Most palmtops have these standard features: handwriting recognition, a stylus, an infrared port, and built in PIM (Personal Information Manager) functions like Outlook Contacts, Calendar, To-do lists, and Notes. Optional features include color screens, expansion slots, digital voice recorders, and e-mail and wireless capability. Find out what features are important to you and choose the Palmtop that fits your lifestyle.

References

www.wikpedia.org
http://www.uchsc.edu/is/palmtops/choosing.htm
http://www.bartleby.com/65/pa/palmtop.html
http://www.jr.com/Templates/Guides/HANDHELD+AND+PDA.tem?JRSource=nsa&nsa=1#03

What is a Pocket PC?

2006-08-14T16:19:10Z

A Pocket PC is a handheld computer that runs a specific version of Windows CE operating system. It has many of the same capabilities of standard PCs and has thousands of applications available to it, many of which are freeware. Some Pocket PCs even have mobile phone features through Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition. Other add-ons for Pocket PCs include GPS receivers, barcode readers, RFID readers, and cameras. Microsoft's definition of the Pocket PC is "a handheld device that enables users to store and retrieve e-mail, contacts, appointments, tasks, play multimedia files, games, exchange text messages with MSN Messenger, browse the Web, and more."

For a device to be classified as a Pocket PC, it must:

• Run Microsoft's Windows Mobile, Pocket PC edition
• Come bundled with a specific suite of applications in ROM
• Include a touchscreen
• Include a directional pad or touchpad
• Include a set of hardware application buttons
• Be based on an ARM version 4 compatible CPU, Intel XScale CPU, MIPS CPU or SH3 CPU

What is Windows CE?

2006-08-14T16:20:19Z

Windows CE is a variation of Microsoft's Windows operating system that is designed specifically for minimalistic computers and embedded systems. Windows CE is a distinctly different kernel and may run in under a megabyte of memory. It is supported on Intel x86 and lookalikes, MIPS, ARM, and Hitachi SuperH processors. Devices using Windows CE are often configured without disk storage. They may be configured as a "closed" system that does not allow for end user extension. Windows CE is a real-time operating system with a deterministic interrupt latency. It supports 256 priority levels and provides for priority inversion. Unlike UNIX-like operating systems, the fundamental unit of execution is the thread, which allows for simpler, faster concurrent programming.

Although Micorsoft denies that the initials "CE" are significant, many people believe that the letters stand for "Compact Edition" or "Consumer Electronics". Today Windows CE is no longer aimed only at handheld devices. Many platforms are based on the Windows CE operating system, including: Microsoft's AutoPC, Handheld PC, Pocket PC, Pocket PC 2002, Pocket PC 2003, Pocket PC 2003 SE, Smartphone 2002, Smartphone 2003, Windows Mobile 5.0, and more.

Standard Features of Pocket PCs

2006-08-14T16:20:40Z

The Pocket PC comes with loads of standard features. Every Pocket PC comes with a stereo headphone jack and Windowns Media Player so you can play MP3 files and Windown Meida format movies. There are also several commericla video players available from other manufacturer so you can play MPEG1, AVI, and DivX files. Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, and Pocket Internet Explorer are just some of the programs that are available for the Pocket PC. There is also a calculator, MSN Messenger, and Pictures for viewing photos. Many Pocket PCs also come with Terminal Services and MS Reader. Handwriting recognition is part of the operating system. There are three handwriting options pre-installed on the units: one for printing letters, one for writing in script, and one that's a grafitti clone. If you don't want to use the handwriting feature, you can type your information into the onscreen keyboard.

All PPCs come with ActiveSync, which is the desktop syncing application for Windows desktops. ActiveSync supports parterships with two computers (home and work), and you can choose the information you sync (for example, you might choose to sync contacts, but not e-mails). The PPC also has file/application install capabilities (in "guest" mode) for as many PCs as you want. ActiveSync can also be used to install applications and transfer files to the PDA and to backup the PDA.

Battery life for a Pocket PC is about three days on average. If the battery drains completely, data will be lost, so remember to charge your Pocket PC and back it up. Most PPCs have 32, 64 or 128 Megs of RAM (memory), and 32 megs or more of ROM (where the OS and built-in applications are permanently stored). They run on XScale ARM family processors at speeds of 200 to 624 MHz, depending on the model. The specifics vary, depending on the price of the unit, but all of the models have a lot of power. Most PPCs have one SD card slot and some have a CompactFlash Card slot. This is generally used for adding more memory. The CF expansion slot can also accommodate CF modems, wired Ethernet cards, Bluetooth cards and WiFi (802.11b wireless Ethernet networking) cards. All Pocket PCs are equipped with IrDA infrared ports, a 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack, a stylus, built-in speaker and microphone, syncing cradle or cable, rechargeable Lithium Ion battery, color display and hardware-based navigation buttons. Several models also feature integrated WiFi and/or Bluetooth wireless networking.

Pocket PC Vendors

2006-08-14T16:21:02Z

There are several different companies that sell and manufacture Pocket PCs. The major manufacturers are: HP, Toshiba, Acer, ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu Siemens, HTC, and ViewSonic. Gateway Computers and JVC announced their plans to release a Pocket PC in 2003, but their project plans were discontinued. In 2003, the average price for a Pocket PC ranged from $200 to $800 USD. Although it was rumored that a model priced between $100 and $200 would be released in 2004 or 2005, the price for a just-released model has never gone under $300. Before the introduction of the Pocket PC, there were other similar products on the market. HP, Philips, and several other companies had been manufacturing products similar to the Pocket PC. These products ran Windows CE 2.0-2.11, which is nearly identical to the desktop version of Windows 98.

Shopping tips for buying a PDA

2006-08-14T16:21:21Z

The first thing to consider when choosing a PDA is the operating system. If all you need out of your PDA is maintaining a calendar, contact list, and to do list, then your best bet is to stick with a low-end device. They can be purchased for under $100 and can handle other applications as well. Another thing to consider is spending a little extra for additional memory or an expansion slot. That way, you can add new software or store photos and MP3s whenever you want. You should also consider expanding the capabilities of your PDA with third-party software. There are thousands of applications available at are available for downloading at www.PalmGear.com. One such application, DataViz's Documents to Go, allows you to edit Word and Excel documents and view PowerPoint files on your Palm-based PDA. You can find software for Pocket PC devices at www.freewarePPC.com.

If you are buying a PDA with advanced features, again, consider the operating system. Windows Mobile-based devices have been gathering enterprise support more quickly than Palm-based devices. However, newer Palm OS-based devices, such as Treo 650 are catching up, since they have integrated cell phones, the ability to display audio and video, and the ability to display digital photographs. Generally, Palm-based PDAs are easier to use, while Windows Mobile PDAs interface better with Microsoft Office desktop apps and come in a wider selection of models. Another thing to consider with an advanced PDA is a storage card. CompactFlash and SD cards allow you to store music or video that you can listen to or watch on your PDA. CompactFlash cards are cheaper than SD models, but are also physically larger. If you plan on using your PDA to access the Internet, keep connectivity in mind. PDAs with built-in Wi-Fi, an integrated cell phone, and/or Bluetooth will help you get more done with fewer wires. If you plan on managing e-mail or consulting the Web while on the road, check the connectivity options closely.

References
www.wikipedia.org
http://www.mobiletechreview.com/ppc.htm
http://www.pcworld.com/howto/bguide/0,guid,11,page,4,00.asp

Introduction to Treo

2006-08-14T16:21:54Z

Everyone needs some form of organization in their life. Whether you like to make your "To Do" lists with a pen and paper, or whether you need an electronic organizer to get the job done, the need remains the same. Today, organizing your life can be done quickly and efficiently with a PDA. PDA stands for personal digital assistant, which in a nutshell, is exactly what this little device does. A PDA is a handheld device that was originally designated as a personal organizer. Over the years, however, PDAs have become much more sophisticated. Today, some of the basic tasks a PDA can perform include: calculating, use as a clock and calendar, playing computer games, accessing the Internet, sending and receiving e-mail, use as radio or stereo, camera recording, recording notes, use as an address book, and use as a spreadsheet. Newer models have color screens and audio capabilities so they can be used as mobile phones, web browsers, or media players. Many can also access the Internet, intranets, extranets via Wi-Fi, or Wireless Wide-Area Networks (WWANs).

Palm, Inc. is a company that manufactures PDAs, including the ever-popular Treo Smartphone. Although Treo was originally developed by Handspring, in 2003, Handspring merged with Palm, Inc.'s hardware division to form palmOne. Palm, Inc. is currently the manufacturer of Treo Smartphones. The Treos are the most popular PDA mobile phone due to the large number of integrated features they offer. With a Treo Smartphone, its possible to check the calendar while talking on the phone, dial directly from contact lists, send e-mails, and with some models, use a built-in camera.

Palm OS vs. Windows Mobile

2006-08-14T16:23:14Z

There are currently 13 different models of Treos, and all but one utilizes Palm OS. The Treo 700w utilizes Windows Mobile. Palm OS is a compact operating system that was developed and licensed in 1996 by PalmSource, Inc. for PDAs. It was developed to be easy to use and is comparable to operating systems such as Microsoft Windows. Palm OS is combined with basic applications including an address book, clock, note pad, sync, and security software.

Windows Mobile is also a compact operating system combined with basic applications for mobile devices. It is based on Microsoft Win32 API. It is designed to be comparable to desktop versions of Windows. There are several features that are common to Windows Mobile. First, the Today Screen shows the current date, owner information, upcoming appointments, e-mail messages, and tasks. There are also pocket PC versions of Microsft Office applications included in Windows Mobile. These applications include Pocket Word and Pocket Excel. With ActiveSync, you can convert desktop versions of files to Pocket PC compatible versions. Windows Mobile also comes with Outlook mobile, which includes tasks, calendar, contacts, and inbox. Finally, Windows Mobile comes bundled with Window Media Player.

Treo Models

2006-08-14T16:23:33Z

Some of the newer and more popular models of Treo Smartphones are as follows:

Treo 600- The Treo 600 is a smart phone that combines the technology of a color Palm OS PDA with a regular sized mobile phone. It has many integrated features, including the ability to check the calendar while talking on the phone, dial directly from the contacts list, take pictures, and send emails. Although the Treo 600 is rather large by cell phone standards, it quite compact for a PDA.

Treo 650- The Treo 650 was introduced on October 24, 2004 as the successor to the Treo 600. It too is a combination PDA/cell phone and is equipped with an Intel processor. It features the Palm OS, version 5.4.8 and a 0.3 megapixel camera. It also has built-in Bluetooth 1.1 compliance. The Treo 650 weighs just 6.3 ounces. Users expressed problems with slower-than-usual loading times and difficulty transferring files, but palmOne released a ROM/Firmware Update to alleviate some of the problems.

Treo 700w- The Treo 700w was introduced on September 26, 2005 as Palm's first Windows Mobile-powered Treo. This was beneficial for people who need to use Microsoft software. The Treo 700w features a 1.3 megapixel camera and a 16-bit color 240x240 TFT touchscreen display.

Treo 700p- The Treo 700p is the newest smartphone and was announced on May 15, 2006. With this model, the Palm OS is used. The Treo 700p features high-speed cellular network support and is the first Treo model to support Bluetooth 1.2. It is the first of a rumored three new Treo smartphones to be released in 2006.

Free Software for Treo

2006-08-14T16:23:53Z

There is tons of software available for Treo and some of it is free! Here are some of the free programs available:

Diddlebug: Diddlebug is a program that allows you to jot down notes on what looks like a yellow-sticky note. The program uses digital ink to record your information and is also capable of setting alarms for each note from a pop-up list.

SharkMSG: This program allows you to send an automated text message to callers when you are on the other line or are unable to take the call.

Directory Assistant: This program is very handy and is great for finding information on the fly. It's great for getting directions and information and you may find yourself using it instead of your PC!

TCPMP: This program turns your Treo into an entertainment device. Shrink down your DVDs using another free program, Fairuse Wizard, and then watch them on your Treo. This really comes in handy when you're stuck waiting somewhere.

Sound Recorder: This program allows you to make a note to yourself by storing digital files directly to your external card. It comes with a record volume and a playback volume, as well as recording quality level. You can even set an alarm to play your message at a certain time.

U*Blog: For all you bloggers out there, this free program will allow you to post your blog directly from your Treo! If you have something important to share with the world, open the application, type, and post. It's that simple. It's a little difficult to set up, but once you've got it, it's worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions about Treo

2006-08-14T16:24:14Z

How do I set up my Treo to send email?
You are not always able to send mail using the outgoing mail settings you use in your POP account. Outgoing settings, or SMTP settings, have to be set up using your wireless providers SMTP settings.

AT&T Wireless customers- SMTP Server: smtp.mymode.com

Cingular customers- SMTP Server: cwmx.com; leave the user name and password blank

Sprint customers- SMTP Server: smtp.sprintpcs.com; enter your Sprint PCS username and your Sprint PCS email password

Verizon customers- SMTP Server: smtp.vzwmail.net; username- enter your 10-digit cellphone number followed by @vzwmmail.net; password: enter the password you set up on the vtext.com webpage.

How can I add ringtones to my Treo?
Start up the Treo's built-in web browser and go to http://www.pattib.org/ringtones. Select one of the twelve ringtones you see there. Save the ringer to "sound", then select the ringtone in your menu.

Can I instant message my friends with a Treo?
You can "IM" your friends with your telephone, or you can use a Third Party Application through your data plan. Here are links to several IM chat programs for Palm OS based Treo smartphones, what they support, and where to try them out. Both Agile Messenger and Toccer are freeware solutions.

• Agile Messenger - AOL, ICQ, MSN, Yahoo
• Toccer -AOL only
• Verichat - Yahoo, ICQ, MSN and AIM
• IM+ - AOL, ICQ, Jabber, Yahoo, MSN, Googletalk
• Chatupus - jabber with support for MSN, ICQ, Yahoo, others

References
http://www.everythingtreo.com
www.wikipedia.org