The jury is still out regarding which operating system is best. Palm's operating system is by far the most popular, due to its great speed and reliability. However, Microsoft vows that the recent redesign of its Pocket PC operating system will give the Palm OS a run for its money. At this point in time, either operating system will work fine, though more medical software applications currently exist for the Palm OS devices. We have summarized the advantage for each system and recommend that you choose the device that will be fit your computing needs.
Palm OS
This is the most popular handheld OS. These systems are extremely easy to use and come with the standard Palm applications including an address book, calendar, to-do list, notepad, calculator, clock, expense tracker, and e-mail. You can then download and install additional programs ranging from medicine travel expand the functionality of your handheld. Most people find that learning Palm's Graffiti handwriting system is an easy. Additionally, all Palm OS devices come with the Palm Desktop personal information management (PIM) software for both Windows and Mac. This software links your Palm Handheld to your desktop and laptop computer. You can even link your Palm Handheld to the most popular scheduling programs such as Lotus Note and Microsoft Outlook.
Palm OS Advantages
- Variety - More medical software is currently being developed for Palm OS versus the Pocket PC. You will have a larger variety of programs from which to choose. However, most of the major medical software titles are available for both Palm OS and Pocket PC.
- Size - Overall the Palm OS systems are much smaller and lightweight. The Palm m500 weighs only 4.0 oz!
- Cost - Basic entry-level models such as the Palm m125 and Visor Edge will cost you less than $200 - a substantial savings from the typical price tag of a Pocket PC device of $400-$500.
- Ease of Use - We have found that our customers find learning how to use their Palm OS devices more intuitive and straightforward.
Palm OS Manufacutures
- Palm, Inc.
- HandEra
- Sony Clie
- Handspring
Pocket PC
Microsoft recently released the fourth generation of its handheld OS, which in many ways looks and feels like a trimmed-down version of Windows. This is system is more robust than the current version of the Palm OS. The Pocket PC OS contains many of the same functions as a desktop computer such as "pocket" versions of many of Microsoft's well-known applications, including Outlook (contacts, calendar); Windows Media Player for playing digital music and movies; Pocket Internet Explorer; Pocket Word; and Pocket Excel. These Handhelds also come with the basic organization tools such as an address book, calendar, to-do list. Presently, Pocket PCs synchronize only with Windows-based computers - sorry Macintosh users.
Pocket PC Advantages
- Functionality - The Pocket PC Handhelds are loaded with extras including Compact Flash memory expansion, support for Virtual Private Network connections, Integrated Voice Recorders, MSN® messenger and more.
- Multimedia - Pocket PC devices come with the Windows Media™ Player which supports audio and video playback, including MP3 files. Also provides for playing media on the device, or streaming content from the Internet or intranet. You can play music in the background while working within other apps.
Pocket PC Manufactures
- Compaq
- Casio
- Hewlett-Packard
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