TECH WATCH
PDA update
Palm Ups the Options
Wireless and digital camera features make Palm PDAs more versatile than ever.
REPORTED BY MIKE ANTONIAK
What do you want from your PDA? Knowing that answer just got a little more difficult with the introduction of the two latest PDAs from Palm. Both new models incorporate distinct features sure to appeal to some real estate practitioners. One offers a built-in digital camera; the other is Wi-Fi-ready with enough processor power and RAM to make wireless connectivity a practical mobile solution.
The wireless-network-enabled Tungsten C debuts as Palm platform’s most powerful PDA to date, in terms of both raw power and performance. This $499 model arrives with a 400MHz processor and 64MB RAM--as much computing power as found in desktop systems only a few years ago! With those specs, this model mutes the Pocket PC camp’s claim that their solution alone delivers true handheld computing power in a PDA.
For users, this combination of a faster processor and more RAM has a direct impact on how quickly the handheld can process data, run applications, and display graphics. More power means a more enjoyable experience for users. The unit includes software applications for networking, browsing the Web, e-mail, working with Word documents, entering text with an electronic stylus on screen, viewing images, and data synchronization with a primary PC.
The real advantage of the increased speed and memory will be evident when you use the unit’s other breakthrough feature: built-in Wi-Fim or wireless network capability. With the right wireless connectivity service package and the unit’s built-in antenna for sending/receiving data, owners of the Tungsten C will be able to connect to their company’s wireless network or log onto the Internet at any of the number of Wi-Fi “hot spots” cropping up wherever people gather. See the April 28 “Tech Watch ” column.
The Tungsten C also offers its own built-in typewriter-style key pad for entering and retrieving information; a Secure Digital/Multi Media card expansion slot; a built-in audio speaker; a new and improved high-resolution LCD screen; and a Palm Universal Connector for plugging in optional peripherals such as a full-sized keyboard. The company estimates its built-in rechargeable battery will power the unit for up to a full day when connected to a Wi-Fi network or for a full week of normal handheld operation before it needs to be recharged.
The other new Palm PDA model, the Zire 71, is primarily targeted at consumers, but the built-in digital camera is a compelling feature for real estate practitioners. The camera is actually hidden within the handheld case. When the photo function is activated, the lens slides out and the PDA screen serves as the electronic viewfinder for framing images. Images can be viewed on the unit’s color LCD screen, saved to internal or removable memory, or saved and distributed later as an e-mail attachment. Like the new generation of cellphone cameras, the camera on the Zire 71 doesn’t capture enough image detail for use as color prints but is fine for photos you’re planning on using electronically.
Other features of this $299 PDA include a 133MHz processor; 16MB RAM; a high-resolution LCD screen; navigator button for simplified data search and operation; buttons for the address book, notepad, or photos stored in memory; an expansion card slot; a stereo headphone jack; and the Palm Universal Connector for plugging in peripherals. The software bundle includes applications for image management, viewing video and multimedia content on the unit screen, e-mail, and data synchronization.
Although the 5.3 ounces. Zire 71 does not rival the new Tungsten C in total performance features, its built-in camera may interest real estate professionals looking for basic PDA organizer functions and quick solution for capturing images of homes in the field, either for their own records or for sharing later with clients as an e-mail attachment. But since camera functions are also available as optional expansion modules for other Palm models, including the Tungsten C, don’t let the camera alone be the deciding factor in your purchase.
But whatever your handheld needs, these latest Palm models give the real estate user an even-wider range of choices in both Palm and Pocket PC PDAs. Whether you’re looking for power, simplicity, or fast photos, there’s a PDA out there for you.
More Resources
For more advice on choosing and using a PDA, click here
Buyer’s Guide: PDA Software , Michael Antoniak, May 2003
It’s a Phone, No It’s a Camera , Michael Antoniak, August 2002
Real-Life Ways to Get More from Your PDA , January 2001
Previously by Antoniak:
Plug Into WiFi
Listing Data Entry Goes Wireless
Tech Products for Special Needs
Color Printing Made Easy
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Do you have technology you’d like to learn more about or a new user twist that you’d like to share with your peers? Let me know about it by e-mailing antoniak@dtccom.net, and I’ll do my best to give it the coverage it deserves.
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