Getting The Best PDA For My Needs

What factors do I need to keep in mind when looking for a PDA?

The number one factor of shopping for a PDA is going to be the compatibility with whatever you're synching it with. If you're a Mac user, you need to have something that's compatible with your Mac; if you're a Windows user, you're going to want something that works well with Windows, as well as any third party applications you may be seeking to use such as expensive management systems or vehicle maintenance programmes if you're a network analyst, which would be giving you certain tools and utilities that allow you to do your job better.

Can I get "voice recognition" for my PDA?

Most of the Microsoft PDAs actually have a program that you can pay for - a one-off $50 charge - called Voice Signal. Voice Signal is a voice recognition software that allows the customer to tell the device what you want it to do, via simple voice commands. Say, "Look up contact", say the name of the contact and the voice recognition software will open the contact and show it to you. Some of the PDAs that have been fused with phones give you the ability to make and receive phone calls using the sound of your voice as well.

What kind of cable do I need to sync my PDA with my desktop computer?

Every PDA has a different standard of USB cable to connect to a desktop computer. Blackberries have a standard cable they use, Palm has a standard cable that they use and you are most likely going to find the cable inside the box of your PDA. If you open your PDA and there is no cable inside, check the box just to make sure it has one listed on the accessories that come included. Otherwise, the cable to connect to a computer is a third party piece of hardware that you need to purchase from the manufacturer itself.

What kind of software do I need to connect to the Internet via my PDA?

Typically, most PDAs already have the software built-in to connect to the Internet, though you made need extra hardware to use it. For instance, some PDAs have Wi-Fi internet built-in, and in order to use that feature, you have to have a Wi-Fi router at home or at your office, which the PDA can connect to. Some PDAs are Bluetooth-enabled, in which case, you can connect it to a Bluetooth-enabled phone, and use your data connection from your cell phone in order to access the internet.