PDA Software
Power and convenience in the palm of your hand
Personal digital assistants (PDAs) provide the convenient and constant access to a computer demanded by many modern users, especially businesspeople. The Palm Pilot, Microsoft Pocket PC and RIM BlackBerry have become an integral part of business maintenance and interaction. Software designed for these PDAs can enhance the effectiveness and convenience of a pocket-sized computer and ensure business runs smoothly.
Syncing software is a key component for PDA use; it maintains synchronization between your main computer and your PDA. The Pocket PC software for syncing is called ActiveSync, while the Palm software is HotSync – available for both Windows and Mac - and the BlackBerry uses Desktop Software.
Much of the software used on your desktop can be found for your PDA. Most PDAs come with the usual office programs such as word processing and spreadsheets, as well as an email application and Web browser. For the travelling businessman or woman, software can be installed to show road conditions and even roadside radar guns.
All work and no play is certainly dull; fortunately, PDAs can be fitted with a variety of games and other fun applications to break up the work day. Available Palm Pilot software includes RealPlayer, Pocket Tunes and an eReader, as well as the ability to purchase eBooks to read. Games such as chess or Sudoku can be installed on PDAs, and other software even allows the recording and playback of DVDs.
PDA software also extends out of the world of business in other ways. Accessibility software such as speech recognition can help those with learning disabilities use handheld or tablet computers. Some educational institutions also use PDAs with accompanying word processing, dictionary and thesaurus software for faster and more accurate note-taking.
PDA software can customize palmtop computers to suit any user's needs and provide convenient, round-the-clock access to the applications and information businesses and individuals rely on.
Features and Benefits
PDA software:
- Synchronizes data with your PC to ensure constant and accurate updates.
- Allows for round-the-clock access to emails and execution of business transactions.
- Adds fun features to your PDA such as music, games and eBooks.
- Benefits students through accurate and faster note-taking.
Top Choices
- Palm Pilot
- RIM BlackBerry
- Microsoft Pocket PC
- Apple iPhone
Major Considerations
- What PDA software is compatible with my handheld device?
- What PDA software best addresses my needs?
- Does my palmtop computer have Internet connectivity?
Price Range
Prices for PDA software range depending on the application. A simple solitaire game or calculator can be purchased for under $10, while professional applications can be much pricier. For example, medical applications providing access to literature databases and information on diseases and medication can cost up to $150.
Summary
PDAs satisfy the modern need for accessibility, mobility and convenience. In the fast-paced environment we live in, businesses, educational institutions and even individuals need to keep meetings, documents and other files organized, portable and efficient. PDA software addresses these issues so that everyone, from doctors to executives to the average user, can switch between desktop and PDA without missing a beat.
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