What Exactly is a PDA?
PDA stands for Personal Digital Assistant, sometimes referred to as a handheld computer. This mini-computer can fit in your pocket or the palm of your hand. The key feature of a handheld is its portability. Huge amounts of data can be stored in this pint-sized personal computer, as well as an array of programs to manipulate that data. If you haven't joined the handheld-computing revolution, your reluctance has finally paid off. PDAs are now smaller, cheaper, and more useful than ever; and are even integrated into some mobile phone models.

Basic Features of a PDA
Most handheld computers are composed of these standard features:

Operating Systems (OS): Just like your personal computer, a PDA requires an OS to run the programs that allow you to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. Palm and Microsoft make the most commonly used operating systems.

Interfaces: PDA's utilize a pen-like input device called a stylus to tap on a touch-screen or writing area. When you write on the designated area, programs convert your scribble into text and/or numerals for storage or manipulation. Interfaces also use recognizable elements such as menus and scroll bars. In addition to touch screens, PDAs can come with keyboards for data entry.

Displays: Most PDAs use a monochrome (black-and-white) display, but the color variety is quickly becoming standard on the latest models. Color displays are advantageous for viewing pictures or video, but require more battery power than do monochrome.

Store and Access Data: Enter and retrieve phone numbers, addresses, appointments, and other personal information; or interact with programs such as spreadsheets.

Sync-Up: Connect to your desktop computer to transfer data or sync-up documents. Many PDAs also allow you to beam information to other PDAs through an infrared port.

E-mail and the Internet: Maybe the most attractive feature is the ability to access the Internet and e-mail through the use of a Web browser. You can also sync-up your address book with a personal computer, as well as download/upload files.

Expansion Slots: Now built into even the least expensive PDA, expansion slots can be used for add-on gadgetry or to add memory.

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Programs, Power, and Accessories