pocket pc simplified use query

[beekay30]

I want to use a handheld to be able to use an encyclopedia/library-type program in mobile situations. All the rest of the wonderful uses everyone speaks of is far beyond where I'm at. Phone connectivity etc I don't really want or need.

Has technology moved too far ahead for me to find a simpler pocket pc, but with 500MB or more program capacity?

Any suggestions would be most appreciated!

BeeKay

[tack9204]

BeeKay - Great to see you know what you want to do with your device and this is THE BIGGEST thing you need to know as far as I'm concerned.

There are numerous devices out there that fit your needs. Look at the processor your potential device has, which will help it run/access your programs. I would suggest to look for WM5 as your OS, if not Crossbow (WM6) because if your battery goes totally flat if you're away from recharging for some time, you won't lose all your installed programs. For your 500MB request you are going to have to use a memory card in the device. This will be regulated by the device you select.

Instead of giving you a list of devices to search through to start with how about some internet sites that will give you some ideas of what to look at and you can chose the type of device you like from reviews etc. PDAdb.net PDA Essentials Pocket PC Thoughts Smartphone & Pocket PC magazine

If you do want to go chasing by brand names some good solid examples of devices that are a Pocket PC (or PDA depending on your vocabulary) Axim, Ipaq (HP), Acer, Mio, and if you prefer there are the Palm operating system devices.

I can only suggest that you don't limit the selection to what you need for now, as you will find numerous uses for the device when you start using it regularly. If you do find a device that you like that has things like Bluetooth/WiFi and you don't need them, they won't activate unless you turn them on. Also don't forget to check around for some of the great bargains that are available for good condition secondhand devices.

Have fun and keep mobile.

[beekay30]

Tack --

Consulting the suggested sites, I'm learning a lot about what might work for me. (gives me a bit of a headache, actually, but I'm perservering.) One possibility that looks promising is the HP iPAQ rx4540. It has the bluetooth and wifi you mentioned, 1 GB storage, and WM5.
A reviewer said it's a PDA dressed up in a portable media player's clothing, but is equally good for productivity. the review also mentioned how quickly PDAs are vanishing in the new wave of communication gear in the market now.

Thanks for your comments -- they've been a great help.

BeeKay

[tack9204]

Good to see I could help in your search. Ask whatever questions you have and I'm sure somebody will answer them for you.

You are looking at a good device too. I have an old Ipaq also, and wouldn't be without it even though it is my back up device now.

Good luck with your searching.

[beekay30]

Tack,

For your kindness, just to let you know, I bought an ipaq hx2795b. So far no regrets as I explore its parameters. What a neat little device!

I definitely will continue accessing the forums.

All best,

BeeKay

[tack9204]

Good solid choice of device BK. Hope you enjoy the usage for many years to come.

Now the only challenge left is to find out what you can't do with it.