Toy or Tool of the Trade? Part II

PART I OF THIS SERIES INTRODUCED the basics of personal digital assistant (PDA) technology, including built-in features, choosing a model that meets your needs, and ideas on how to begin using your PDA. Part II of this series examines software and hardware that can enhance your PDA's usefulness. Thousands of software programs are currently available for PDAs. In this column, we'll look at some, such as medical references and database management tools, that increase the functionality of your PDA. Included is information on installing new software and deleting programs you no longer need. We'll also examine hardware additions—such as memory cards, digital cameras, MP3 players, bar-code scanners, infrared printers, and global positioning system (GPS) technology—that are available for your PDA. Vendors from whom you can obtain these goodies are also identified.