EIGHT QUESTIONS TO ASK 
BEFORE YOU BUY 

Thinking of purchasing a new handheld computer?  Here are eight questions to ask before you buy:

1. How does it fit into my hand? How does the case open? Is it easy to get the stylus out of its slot? 

Make sure the PDA feels comfortable to you. Try it out (Best Buy is one of my favorite places to test drive the different models).

2. How much can I spend? PDAs range from about $200 to as much as a complete laptop computer system. 

3. What accessories do I need? Make sure you buy a keyboard, or your model comes with a thumb keyboard. The PDA handwriting called Graffiti 2 is not nearly as efficient as a keyboard. 

You may also want a case, and possibly a separate car charger.

4. What is the typical battery life, and how does the PDA charge? You want a model with long battery life.

How does the PDA's cradle connect to your computer for charging and hot-syncing? For example, if the PDA requires an USB connection, does your computer have a USB port?

Hot-syncing copies the data on your PDA to your computer and back -- syncing the two machines.

5. Do I need special features like a color screen, camera, a voice recorder, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi access? Some of the latest models come with a built-in voice recorder to quickly make verbal notes or a digital camera for photos on the fly. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are both ways to connect your PDA to computer networks or other devices like printers.  Here is a more detailed explanation.

5. How much space do I need? Just like your computer, different models have different amounts of RAM. Some of the newest PDAs come with expansion slots allowing you to add special cards called SD cards to store pictures, music and additional data.

6. Do I need a combination PDA and phone? With models like the Samsung phones and Handspring Treo smartphones you can carry just one electronic device.  This can be very useful if you have multiple devices (pager, phone, PDA) and want to eliminate one device.  

A few things to remember:  

• Verify with your wireless provider service that you can use a smartphone. Certain models only work with certain wireless companies. 

• If one device goes down, both may be out of commission. 

• If you need to see your datebook and address book while you are talking on your phone, it can be a challenge with a combination model.  

• How much will you use internet access on your PDA?  Most smartphones can also be configured to access the internet and check your email using your cell phone (check on additional fees and per-minute charges).

7.  Should I get a Palm or Pocket PC?  This is a complicated question, similar to the Windows vs. Mac question.  Personally, I use Palms and love them.  They work seamlessly with my Windows PC and the interface is very intuitive.  Because of this I've never tried the Pocket PCs.  Here is another discussion about Palm vs. Pocket PC from users of both and a debate from About.com.

8.  What is the return policy?  What if you don't like your new PDA?  How easily will you be able to return it?  Is there a restocking charge?  How long do you have to return it?  Will you receive cash or store credit?  If the model is defective, will you receive a replacement model?  You may want to purchase from a local store, so you do not have to pay shipping charges.

With a little research, you can find the perfect handheld computer to fit your budget and the way you work and live.

For permission to reprint this article, contact julie (at) finallyorganized.com.