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Handhelds Overview : |
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The first handhelds, which appeared in the mid-1980s,
were very small and offered limited features. It wasn't until 1996,
when the first Palm OS-based devices appeared, that mobile
professionals started to use them. |
Simple synchronization with PCs and easy,
icon-based operation are the keys to the handheld's success. And over
the last five years, hardware improvements have proliferated, including
the addition of well-lit color screens, cool audio features, and lots of
expansion and connection options. The most recent push is the
integration of wireless capabilities for e-mail, instant messaging,
Internet browsing, synchronization, and printing; the challenges of
varied standards, speeds, and coverage issues will be major factors in
this market's evolution.
First and foremost, the core function of any self-respecting handheld is
its ability to handle personal information, including contacts, calendar
entries, and task or to-do lists. Most handhelds can connect to a PC, so
you can keep your important personal information synchronized, download
applications and data to your handheld, and back up important
information to your PC. Handhelds also have convenient utility features
such as clocks, calendars, and calculators. Of course, you may want to
carry more than just basic information, and fortunately, the handheld
world is full of interesting and even surprising capabilities. Devices
can now double as music players and e-book readers; they can even
display streaming video. Beware of the hype, however. No matter what you
may hear, no handheld is perfect--or comparable to a notebook.
Because employees and companies have different needs and preferences,
handhelds come with widely varying characteristics. This is especially
true when it comes to data input: Some handhelds have real keyboards
(attached, clip-on, or plug-in accessories); some have on-screen virtual
keyboards; some include handwriting-recognition applications and voice
recorders; and others limit input and control to single-stroke
characters on a tiny touch screen. Other key differentiators include
whether the device has a color or monochrome screen and whether it has
enough battery power to run for two to four weeks or just for a long
workday. Size and weight can also influence your choice. In most cases,
a handheld weighs between 2 ounces and 3 pounds and fits in a pocket.
And we all know price makes a difference: Typically, a handheld costs
between $100 and $500, although very limited devices may run less than
$100, while some specialized models can top $1,000.
The purpose of this buying guide is to help you understand what
handhelds can and can't do, so that you and your company can make an
informed purchasing decision. Here you'll find a discussion of the
various hardware categories and a look at their applications and
capabilities. We've provided some tips on price ranges and features, as
well as a Reality Check section to help you steer clear of common
misconceptions as you assess your needs and preferences.
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