Purchasing a PDA

[phild]

I'm looking to buy a PDA and I'm overwhelmed with the range and underwhelmed with the degree of plain-English info available!

I want a PDA that will handle todo, calendars and the like.
I want one that will synchronise with Lotus Notes (and I understand I may have to get additional software like Intellisync to do this).
I want one that will have direct dial-up access (I can acccess a VPN to facilitate this if necessary) without needing to go through an additional phone or intermediary device. (I know a blackberry will do this, but am not clear whether a blackberry will also provide the calendar access)

I dont particularly care about MP3s, texting, telephoning or camera functions

Any advice would be most welcome!

 

[DoubleHelix]

All PDAs handle calendaring, contacts, and tasks/to-do lists.

I don't know of any that natively sync with Lotus Notes. Check the Intellisync software to see what they're hardware requirements are.

I'm not sure what you mean by "direct dial-up access". Do you want to connect a phone cord to the device and dial into a VPN system? No PDAs come with built-in dial-up modems. I'm not sure they're even made anymore.

If you're referring to cellular-type connections (you referenced the BlackBerry), then your options are very limited. There's the BlackBerry, Handspring Treo, and an HP PocketPC Phone Edition PDA. All of these require the purchase of a monthly data/voice contract.

 

[phild]

I'm not sure what you mean by "direct dial-up access". Do you want to connect a phone cord to the device and dial into a VPN system? No PDAs come with built-in dial-up modems. I'm not sure they're even made anymore.

If you're referring to cellular-type connections (you referenced the BlackBerry), then your options are very limited. There's the BlackBerry, Handspring Treo, and an HP PocketPC Phone Edition PDA. All of these require the purchase of a monthly data/voice contract.

If modems dont exist any more (ah, the memories of my chunky old Palm modem!) then, yes, it's cellular-type connection that I'm referring to. Many PDAs proudly claim Bluetooth and Wireless capability, but I want to be able to access email on the move wherever I am. I'll check those three out - thanks - but I'm surprised there arent more given the huge PDA market!

 

[DoubleHelix]

Many PDAs have wireless capabilities such as WiFi and Bluetooth, but those technologies don't allow you to connect to the internet anywhere at any time. WiFi is wireless networking. It works when you're near a hotspot. Bluetooth is generally used to connect two devices over a short distance.

Even with a Smartphone, you still have to be in the coverage area, just like you do to use a cell phone.

HP's smartphone only works with T-Mobile's network. If you're outside that coverage area, that device won't work for you. The other two devices offer a few more options.

 

[botto]

If you do go with the Treo i'd suggest getting the Treo 600...many users in my company have the Treo 650 and there's been some platform issues...A couple users have the 600 and have had no issues what so ever....the new Blackberry 7100g is pretty slick too....and the OS seems alot more streamlined as well....if i had the cash i'd go with a Blackberry 7100g.