Both Palm and Pocket PC systems can be synchronized with a desktop or laptop computer, from which contacts, appointments, and email may be downloaded. If you use standard Windows applications on your main computer such as Word, Excel or Outlook, Pocket PC would be a good choice; its integration with Microsoft Windows allows documents to be transferred with ease. On the other hand, Pocket PC requires more memory and operates more slowly than Palm.
Most PDAs are operated by a touch screen. This allows the user to tap the screen using a stylus. There are typically several methods by which data can be input. A small keyboard can appear on screen, the 'keys' of which are tapped with the stylus. A variety of handwriting-recognition technology may also be used; although not as fast or as accurate as regular handwriting, this is nonetheless an effective way to input information.
Other models are equipped with an actual, albeit small, keyboard on the unit itself. Which type you choose is a matter of preference. Keep in mind, however, that portable, fold-out keyboards are also available accessories; while smaller than standard keyboards, they do permit typing with reasonable comfort and speed.
PDA displays use LCD technology, but their quality varies considerably. Color displays are nice to look at, especially when combined with high resolutions, but they are more expensive than monochrome models with lower resolutions. In addition, some models restrict handwriting technology to one portion of the screen, while it may be used anywhere with other models.
Most PDAs are shipped with between 8mb and 64mb of internal memory, most of which is used by applications. Because Pocket PC systems require more memory than Palm systems do, they typically have at least 32mb. Memory capacity is often upgradeable, via removable storage (such as Secure Digital cards, for example).
A PDA must have a travel cable, or a cradle, to connect to your PC. Either way, the PC must have a free USB port; serial connections are still available, but they are becoming increasingly obsolete. Some PDAs offer an infra-red port, from which synchronization can be done without wires of any kind. The computer on the receiving end must also have an infrared port.
