If you have the time, don't hesitate to research all of the PDA options on the market. In addition to Palm, Inc., Casio, Sony, Compaq, TRG, and Handspring are just a few of the companies that sell PDA devices. When you are shopping, keep the following things in mind:
Software
There are basic software applications for every PDA on the market. However, if you hope to get the most out of your PDA, we recommend purchasing a system based on the Palm OS. There are hundreds of medical software applications written for this platform. However, most of the major software developers are now releasing versions for both the Palm OS and Pocket PC systems. The basic medical and utility programs are generally available on both platforms, however, more specialized applications typically only are written only for Palm OS devices. We recommending researching which software titles your are planning to purchase before selecting your PDA.
Memory
As a medical professional, you will unquestionably need a Handheld with memory expansion. Palm OS systems typically come with 8MB of RAM. New models are shipping with 16MB. Pocket PC devices typically have 32MB to 64MB of RAM. Pocket PC devices generally come with more memory that Palm OS handhelds, but they use more memory (because of their color screens and graphics-intensive displays) than Palm OS devices. However, don't be fooled into thinking that you need 200 MB of memory. We've found that about 16MB for Palm OS devices is sufficient for the average healthcare professional.
Most importantly, be sure to purchase a device that allows the addition of extra memory. We have listed the typically memory expansion modules used with selected handhelds devices and a comparison of cost of the memory expansion module. Typically, memory modules that are proprietary in nature such as the Sony Memory Stick and Handspring Springboard Modules will cost your more.
| Handheld | Memory Module | Cost |
| Palm m125 | SD/MMC | $$ |
| Palm m500 Series | SD/MMC | $$ |
| HandEra 330 | SD/MMC/CF | $ |
| Handspring Visor | Springboard Modules | $$$$ |
| Sony Clie | Sony Memory Sticks | $$$ |
| Pocket PC Devices | SD/MMC/CF | $$ |
Key: SD (SecureDigital); MMC (MultiMediaCards); CF (Compact Flash)
Color screen
Until recently, Pocket PC devices held the edge in this area. Now, Palm, Inc. offers color as well. Color is more of an added benefit than a necessity. If you value this feature, we would recommend purchasing a either a Pocket PC device or a high-end Palm OS device due to their higher resolution color screens. Today, most software developers are creating color based software applications.
Size
There are many different sized PDAs available. In our opinion, a healthcare professional will not be happy with a large PDA, because they are heavy and difficult to carry with you throughout the day. For this reason, we like the Palm m500 Series' small size - this Palm handheld fits into your pocket unobtrusively and won't weigh you down. If your eyesight is poor, however, take a careful look at other devices with larger screens - you may not be able to read the Palm's small typeface. In general Pocket PC devices contain larger screens but are also much heavier.
Battery Life
Battery life is a major decision factor which you should not overlook when purchasing a PDA. Battery replacement is annoying and expensive, so it pays to carefully consider how much maintenance you are willing to perform. Pocket PC devices offer color displays and lots of basic functionality at the expense of very short battery life. Palm OS devices offer much longer battery life (about a month) and quick speed at the expense of small screen size and simpler graphics. Higher-end PDA devices such as the Palm m500 Series come with rechargeable batteries which is a nice advantage (and can save you a lot of money over several years' time).
Speed
Pocket PC devices are getting better, but Palm OS devices offer a clear advantage in this category. They are fast, reliable, and won't leave you hanging. The Pocket PC system is not as efficient as the Palm OS meaning it takes more processing power to run. This means either faster processors are required, which generally cost more and use more battery, or response times are slower when you use the device. However, for most of the routine handheld functions, differences in processor speeds are negligible.
Data input
We think that using a stylus is just like using a scalpel - a little practice and you'll be fine. However, if you prefer to type or need to input lots of data, we recommend that you consider purchasing a keyboard. The new handheld keyboards are about the size of a laptop keyboard and fold into compact device about the size of your PDA. Remember to purchase extra stylus when buying your PDA - they are easy to lose!
Functionality
Pocket PC devices offer much more base functionality than Palm OS devices. The Pocket PC comes 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. The Pocket PC also contains added functionality for networking and linking to the Internet. However, many third-party software developers have designed programs for the Palm OS systems which allow you to perform many of these same task on your Palm Handheld.
Size and Weight
Palm-size PDAs typically have 2.5 x 3" screens. Pocket PC devices tend to have slightly larger screens starting at 2.5 x 6" and going up to 10" (laptops are about 12"). Large screens are nice, but may not be worth the bulk and weight that comes with them. How will you carry your PDA during the day? If you don't have a large pocket (or backpack!) with you at all times, it will become onerous to carry a large PDA device. We recommend you purchase a smaller lighter model.
Price
You'll typically pay several hundred dollars more for a Pocket PC device than a Palm OS device due to their larger size, extra base functionality, and color screens. You'll also pay more if you want live Internet and email access. We recommend you purchase a PDA that costs in the $250 - $500 range. Spending more or less than that will leave you with a device that either doesn't do anything, or which has extraneous features you probably won't use anyway. Remember: you'll have to spend an additional $100 - $200 on software after you purchase your PDA, so don't go overboard on hardware costs.
Good luck making your purchase! If you need more advice, don't hesitate to email us with questions.
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