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Types of PDAs
Home » Handheld Electronics » PDAs » Types of PDAsAs the capabilities of the PDAs continue to grow, the devices are in a constant state of change. PDAs come in a wide range of capabilities as well as price. The spectrum ranges from a basic organizer for around $50.00 that does no more than store your contact information and provides a daily calendar to the high-end PDAs that provide advanced features such as wireless access, expansion slots, cameras, and more.
• Basic PDAs - The two main types of PDAs are the Palm and the Pocket PC. Today there are fewer differences between the Palm and the Pocket PC. There are other operating systems such as is found on the BlackBerry but Palm and Windows are the most common. One of the biggest differences between the two is that Windows Mobile has Microsoft Word and Excel built-in. The amount of internal memory in the PDA determines the number of names, phone numbers, and information it can store. Even the most basic PDA is able to perform the following functions:
o Provide an address book in which you can store names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses.
o Provides a memo pad where you can take notes.
o Provides a daily calendar where you can store appointments, etc.
o Provides a clock which features alarms and appointment reminders.
o Provides a calculator.
• Mid-range PDAs - In addition to added memory, most PDAs today also include wireless and multimedia functions. The screens are generally color screens with crisper text. The screen may also support landscape formatting. Other features found in a mid-range PDA may include:
o A faster processor.
o Wireless networks that enable you to access the web or corporate networks.
o Support for data networks providing connectivity to Smartphones.
o Support for MP3 files.
o Contains a memory card slot for use with digital cameras.
o Provides an additional memory slot for adding memory at a later date.
o Includes rechargeable batteries and a cradle.
o Retains data when batteries run out.
• High-end PDAs - A high-end PDA will give you even more memory, a higher screen resolution, and contains a faster processor allowing you to play video games easier and access the web faster. Other features you may find on a high-end PDA that are not generally found on lower priced PDAs include:
o Built-in digital camera and video recorder.
o Global Positioning System card and receiver that along with mapping software allows you to pinpoint your location and get directions.
o Includes Bluetooth capabilities.
o Combined MP3 players.
o Combined mobile telephones.
o Keyboards for quick and easy data entry.
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