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I have a recently aquired Dell Axim running Windows Mobile v5.0 which I am currently using only for contacts and calendar. (I previously had a first generation Palm Pilot but had problems with the clarity of the display).
Recognising that this is a powerful machine, I would like to do a lot more with it but I'm finding it very difficult to develop a 'mental picture' of how Windows Mobile is structured. I have a lot of experience using Windows and Unix both as a user and a developer - so it's not as if I'm new to computing.
Examples of some of the questions I have are as follows:
1. Can I move folders and applications around without losing them?
2. Where are the data files that underly my contacts application?
3. Can I customise the Home screens?
4. What is the significance of the folders I see in File Explorer?
I have looked for books on Windows Mobile but I'm surprised to see there are very few. The documentation that came with my PDA is useful but very thin on detail.
Something to keep in mind is that while Windows Mobile is not identical to desktop Windows, it does have many similarities. Among these is the structure of the file system. Like Windows Explorer on your desktop PC, WM File Explorer shows you the file system through a graphic interface. What you do in the Explorer window makes the equivalent changes in the underlying file system.
Like desktop Windows, the heart of WM is the registry, which tells the OS where to find pretty much everything. When you install software, entries are made in the registry concerning file locations for executables, dll files, and data files, and also what apps are associated with each type of data file. This is why simply moviing a file or folder will often 'break' an application. Unless the registry entries are updated, they remain pointing at the old file system locations. The best way to insure a smooth move is to uninstall the app and reinstall it to the desired new location so that the OS handles the needed registry changes. Some utilities like Pocket Mechanic have move functions but they are not always foolproof.
You can make straightforward changes to the Today screen by changing themes or the background image through Settings. More significant changes can be made using apps like Pocket Plus or WisBar, or various launchers like iLauncher. There are many options and you should select the one that matches your needs. Whether a new theme or a Today screen app, make sure you choose one that is compatible with WM5. Most clearly tell you what WM versions they are designed for.
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