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Accessories & Shopping
Accessories
when you buy a PDA find out what accessories are included in
the price. Sync cradles or cables are usually but not always
included. If you're a Mac user make sure the cradle or cable
is for the Mac. Additional software might be needed to make
the PDA compatible with a Mac which could cost extra.
Internal modems are sometimes included in the upfront price
but add-on or wireless modems are extra.
Once you get to know your PDA, you might want to invest in a
protective screen overlay or a carrying case. Consumer
torture tests have proven most PDAs remarkably durable, but
a leather or metal case can add that extra hint of style.
Other accessories include small keyboards for palm units, AC
adapters, styli that double as pens and even digital
cameras.
Audio
PDAs have differing audio capabilities. Virtually all have
built-in speakers for alert noises. Others have internal
microphones for recording notes or limited voice recognition
uses. Depending on the device, there can be jacks for
headphones or external microphones. Audio features will be
especially important for users who want to use a PDA for
multimedia purposes. On newer PDAs like Pocket PCs, you can
watch video clips, listen to MP3 music or hear an audio
book. In general, Pocket PC units tend to offer more audio
features though there are add-on audio accessories on offer
for Palm OS devices as well.
Shopping
You put the "personal" in PDA so you want a device that can
accommodate your work and recreational needs. A good place
to start is a matching engine that will search for PDA
models that satisfy your specifications for features like
memory or size. After you've got a short-list in mind, there
are a number of web sites offering reviews of PDAs which
discuss topics like price, screen quality, software and
battery life. Many of these sites also review the latest PDA
software and accessories.
When you're ready to lay down your money credit cards are a
convenient, reliable method. Some companies automatically
insure your purchase against loss, theft or breakage. Using
a credit card can also simplify returning an item if
something goes wrong. Before purchasing, ensure you've read
all the fine print about returns, restocking and shipping
fees.
Not all warranties are created equal. Most major
manufacturers will stand behind their product, but it's
still a good idea to compare warranties before you buy. Some
stores add extras to the manufacturer's warranty. Ideally, a
warranty will cover parts and labor on everything. You can
also buy extensions to a warranty, just keep in mind that a
more inclusive warranty with a shorter term will serve you
better than a limited one for a longer term.
Price
Basic PDAs can be found these days for under $100 but most
entry level units are in the $200-$300 range. Expect to pay
$300-$900 for a feature rich professional model and up to
$1500 for a handheld with keyboard.
Conclusion
PDAs pack quite a punch for their size. Although they were
originally designed simply to organize your personal
information, today PDAs provide far more functionality. With
the right accessories and software, a PDA gives you mobile
access to the internet or corporate network, lets you create
and edit documents, manages your contacts and appointments
then helps you relax by blowing up aliens. Sure, PDAs exude
geek chic, but who says you can't be efficient, productive -
and cool.
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