The beauty of PDAs is that you can just pop them in your backpack or pocket rather than lugging around the laptop. Some PDAs now connect using an infrared port. Most come with applications like spreadsheet software, a word processor, database and financial management programs, as well as useful utilities like a clock, calculator, or various games. The most complex PDAs combine a cell phone, fax machine and personal organizer in one. Some of these handheld devices even include voice recognition technology.
Many people are already banking and shopping online using their PDAs.
Email access is easy but the web is limited. Although you might not be using your PDA for general web surfing, you can still take advantage of specialized software and Internet services that give you quick access to stock quotes, weather forecasts, maps and directions and the latest sports scores. You'll have better access to wireless services if you live in a major metropolitan area. For an overview of PDAs and the history of their development, visit the PC Technology guide to PDAs. E-mail our editor .