The Personal Digital Assistants better known as the PDA's are new age electronic devices that store all your personal information and data and process it whenever you need it. These devices are not only about storing and retrieving data but they come with a variety of options for added functionality and convenience.



These devices are equipped to give you more functionality than processing data and these new functionalities include handwriting recognition, networking, wireless communications, MP3 players, phone etc.

This device can be classified by considering its functionality and the operating system or OS it uses. More features like the Memory and processing speed also help us to determine different types of PDA's.

But in general you will find the PDA's classified as hand-held PDA's and palm-sized PDA's. The only major differences between these two being size, display and mode of data entry. The hand-held PDA's, if compared to the palm-sized PDA's, tend to be larger and heavier.

They have larger liquid crystal displays (LCD) and use a miniature keyboard, usually in combination with touch-screen technology, for data entry. Whereas, the palm-sized PDA's are smaller and lighter. They have smaller LCDs and rely on stylus/touch-screen technology and handwriting recognition programs for data entry.

When you stat looking for a PDA device what you need is device with the most compatible operating system. The Windows Pocket PC OS is the most popular as it is compatible with most of the Desktops. The size does matter. The small sized PDA device is easier to carry and use. While considering a PDA note that a choosing a big screen will ensure that no unnecessary strain is put on your eyes.

The best PDAs are loaded with the most useful applications and are Internet ready to keep you on move. RAM is an essential factor for choosing a PDA device. The one that have more RAM helps you to process data faster and run more applications.

Some of these devices come with memory slots so that you can insert a compact flash or secured memory stick to increase its storage capacity. The handheld device is well equipped with networking capabilities. It helps you to get connected with LAN's and other wireless networks.

A handheld model is designed to give you the freedom of accessing important data without the geographical limitations, and with added convenience. So it can be used by those who have to spend most time out of the office and carrying a laptop every time is not a possibility. In fact in some occasions it is more useful as it is handy and can be carried in the pocket.

It is very useful with some of its interesting features like handwriting recognition software, which make using it even more convenient. It helps you in a great deal to stay connected to the Internet and can function as a mobile phone as well.

This combination is great for the people who need to communicate a lot and at the same time require data at their fingertips. It is also a great entertainment tool with music and video player, which makes it a great companion everywhere.