Internetworkers: http://www.ibiblio.org/internetworkers/

["Bill Geschwind" <geschwin AT email.unc.edu>]

Title: Older PDAs

Hi Colleen,

 

I’m sure you know that opinions will vary widely on this subject. Here’s my take on this subject:

 

-          I would look for a PDA that uses the Palm O/S rather than Microsoft Windows CE/Pocket PC/Windows Mobile or whatever they call it these days. In my experience Palm O/S is much easier to navigate, less resource-hungry and crashes less than the Microsoft ones.

 

-          Make sure that whatever Palm PDA you buy includes the CD with the software. I have found that you can’t always download all of the software you need after the fact from the manufacturer’s website. This applies in particular to the freebie software that’s usually included with Palm devices to connect to Outlook for contacts and calendaring.

 

-          Regarding what other PDA applications to look for, I would keep an open mind about it and see if any other “killer apps” present themselves to you. On mine I use the address book for Outlook contacts that you mention all the time, and I also use it very frequently for its calendar (which can also synch with the calendaring portion of Outlook and other calendars), its “memo pad” for note-taking and to play Solitaire whenever I need to wait a few minutes for somebody or something. This is one category where Your Mileage Will Vary!

 

-          Before buying, make sure that the hot synch cable that comes with it is compatible with your computer. Older PDAs often connect to a serial port rather than to a USB port and some newer “legacy-free” PCs no longer have serial ports. Make sure what you’re getting is compatible with what you have before buying!

 

-          Some Palm PDAs operate with AAA batteries whereas others run off of internal rechargeable batteries. There are pros and cons to both, but after having used both in the past I have a very strong preference for the rechargeable internal ones. However if you’re buying an old used one, then caveat emptor applies regarding the condition of the battery. Some of the internal ones may be a royal pain or impossible to replace.

 

-          About memory, get as much as you can afford. Even for basic Palm O/S functionality I would stay away from the early models that have 2 MB or less of memory and at least get one with 8 MB. (For example Palm Vx instead of Palm V). Once you start using it and find that it’s useful for stuff besides a fancy address book you don’t want to catch yourself frustrated due to a lack of memory. Remember to keep an open mind about how you end up using it, and you may find yourself using it for many more things than you originally intended. They really are neat devices.

 

-          As far as accessories go, I generally find it useful to have a battery charger both for home and the office. Also, if it doesn’t come with one, some sort of protective case is a good idea, so that the screen is protected from damage if the device is in your pocket or bag. Disposable screen protectors are also a worthwhile investment.

 

Best of luck in finding a good one.

 

Hope things are going well for you over in N.C. On a totally unrelated subject, my first tour in the Foreign Service with the US State Department will be Cotonou, Benin, and it looks like I will be heading there early January and will be there for two years. The more I read about the place the more I’m looking forward to getting there.

 

- Bill

 

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From: internetworkers-bounces AT lists.ibiblio.org [mailto:internetworkers-bounces AT lists.ibiblio.org] On Behalf Of Colleen McCarthy
Sent: Wednesday, August 23, 2006 7:43 PM
To: Internetworkers@Lists. Ibiblio. Org
Cc: Barry Kahn
Subject: [internetworkers] Older PDAs

 

Hi Folks,

A fiend of mine just bought an older PDA (I think it was a Palm 5) on eBay for $18.00.  I am looking for a PDA also-- just an electronic address book that will synch with my Outlook Contacts.  I know that many of you have had PDAs for many years.  If any of you could offer answers to these questions, I would appreciate it :)!

Is there anything else that I might want?
How much memory should I look for?
What accessories should I look for?
Is there anything that I should avoid?

Thanks much!

Colleen