Introduction to the Handheld PDA:
Features to Consider when you Purchase a PDA

(Remember…as you shop for your first PDA,
it probably won't be the last one you buy…)

Functionality:

• Know how extensively you want to use it (replacement for paper planner or use for clinical reference, patient tracking, etc.)

Operating System (OS):

• OS = type of programming used to run the computer.
  
  
• The three most common operating systems in order are: Palm OS, Pocket PC (and its predecessor called Windows CE), and Epoc (more popular in Europe).
  
  
• There are also several proprietary operating systems that are specific to a given company and its products. Software is written based on what operating system is used and it should be able to be utilized in all the products that use that same operating system.
  
  
• Know what OS your colleagues are using so that you can easily exchange information.
  
  
• CNET.com currently lists over 80 devices in hardware reviews and price indexes

Palm OS:

• Developed specifically for a palm-sized computer. Considered very user-friendly and is intuitive.
  
  
• Palm OS handhelds own the market share. Therefore you will have the most fellow users to share information with if you purchase a Palm OS computer.
  
  
• Palm OS also has the most available associated products and medical software.
  
  

• Palm www.palm.com
  
• Handspring www.handspring.com
  
• Sony www.sonystyle.com/
  
  

Windows Pocket PC:

• Developed to be used in a variety of products as a scaled down version of Microsoft Windows®. Includes compact versions of Word, Excel and Outlook.
  
  
• Necessary if you are planning on using your handheld to integrate with an electronic medical record product that requires it.
  
  
• OS requires more memory.
  
  

• HP www.hp.com/jornada/
  
• Casio
  
• Compaq www.compaq.com/showroom/handhelds.html

Input methods:

• Many PDAs use a penlike stylus to enter information. Tap on an on-screen keyboard or enter data by writing on the screen, which may require learning a special alphabet.
  
  
• Palm OS and Pocket PC devices have detachable keyboards which can be used for data entry.

Memory:

• PDAs typically have 2 MB to 32 MB of built-in memory.
  
  
• 2 MB useful minimum for Palm OS devices.
  
  
• 8 MB required for anything more than basic address and calendar (e.g., if you want to download clinical references such as the Merck Manual) or if you want to add peripheral equipment such as cellular phones or digital cameras)
• 32 MB minimum for Windows CE OS devices
  
  
• Small storage cards can be inserted into some PDAs.
  
  
• Consider built-in memory, add on memory, and capability to use cards to add on memory.

Display:

• Monochrome or gray-scale displays vs color displays
  
  
• 2 to 16 grays; 256 to 64,000 colors
  
  
• Active matrix displays generally are easier to see, more responsive and can be viewed at larger angles than passive matrix displays, but use more power.

Battery options:

• Permanent or swappable rechargeable batteries (always keep a ready supply on hand!)
  
  
• Replaceable alkaline batteries
  
  
• Typical use time between recharging or changing batteries: 3 hrs to 1 month
  
  
• Consider the time it takes for recharging

Size:

• Today's PDAs range from the size and thickness of 10 business cards, weighing 1.4 ounces, to the size of a paperback book weighing significantly more.
  
  
• Complementary hardware -- for example, modems, cradles, and battery chargers -- add to the overall size and weight of PDAs.

Connections:

• Synching with PC
  
  
• Serial, USB, IR
  
  
• External connectivity
  
  
• Ethernet, wireless LAN, IrDA, cell phone

Expansion:

• Some PDAs can be upgraded, with new OS software.
  
  
• You also may be able to add memory or removable storage to a PDA, or connect it to an external monitor, a network, or a modem. Printers and external keyboards can be added to many PDAs as well.

Cost:

• PDAs range from less than $100 to over $600. Generally, the higher-priced PDAs provide more features and functions than the lower-priced models.

Once you have an idea of the size/weight, input methods, features, uses and applications then you can prioritize them based on your personal usage patterns and tastes. Then you are ready to compare your needs with the different devices that are available.

For more information, see the Select Sites listed in "The Handheld PDA: Tools and Resources for Health Care Professionals".