PDA

PDA, the abbreviation of Personal Digital Assistant, is also popularly known as the pocket computer or palmtop computer. This general-purpose device is a smaller version of the laptop and can actually fit in to the userís pocket. Usually, the display screen is touch sensitive and helps in navigation. The Global Positioning System (GPS), radio or stereo and other contemporary features make this device more evolved than the desktop or laptop computer. Additionally, the PDA can also be used as a mobile phone, web browser or a portable media player.

On many PDAs, the Internet, intranet and extranet can be accessed via Wi-Fi or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN). Most of the PDAs have a slot for the memory card ñ the Secured Digital slot (SD), which is also compatible with Wi-Fi cards and Webcams. The memory of a PDA can be further expanded with the use of compact flash slots. These devices have Infrared connectivity that is useful to connect two PDAs, and a PDA to a computer. The advanced Bluetooth facility is also inbuilt in a few PDAs.

A PDA can also be synchronised with a PC to prevent any undue loss of information. One can also add software to the PDA by directly downloading them from the Internet or by purchasing them. With the GPS installed in the device, it is widely used for automobile navigation as well. Apple Computer was one of the first companies to launch a PDA in 1993. This was called the Newton MessagePad.