The pre-installed operating systems are also varied: While PDAs usually use the mini-Windows system Pocket PC and Palm OS, most smart phones use the Symbian operating system.
Storage capacity runs from 16 megabytes to 128 megabytes, usually expandable with flash storage cards. Customers should take a look at which kinds of media will work with which devices: While classic PDAs often use the CompactFlash format, already the most widely available, smart phones often use Secure Digital storage or Multimedia cards. Sony customers, by contrast, are forced to by Sony's proprietary Memory Stick format.
Many models can also surf wirelessly on the Internet, says Patrizia Incardona, who runs a Web site devoted to PDAs. The MDA II from T-Mobile, for example, offers an integrated Bluetooth port, while the Pocket Loox 610 from Fujitsu Siemens is equipped with Wireless LAN.
Another alternative is to use a GPRS connection, although that connection is much slower, Incardona reminds. A PDA can even serve as a car navigation system, if outfitted with a GPS receiver.
When buying a PDA, customers should look for devices with long battery life, Incardona reports. Wireless and multimedia applications use a lot of energy, meaning that many devices need recharging after only one day.
A replacement battery is a wise investment. In a few years, PDAs will probably be able to function as televisions by receiving terrestrial digital signals, says Hinze.
The rapid development of the mini computer does have its downside, though. Just recently the first smart-phones virus was identified. Users need to think not only of the fun side of their devices, but about security as well.
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