Tips for Buying a PDA as a Gift
Entering a new year with a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) gift means it has to be recent. Up to date versions often have advanced features like the built-in satellite navigation (GPS), Bluetooth or Wi-Fi wireless Internet access, phones, cameras and multimedia functions.
Buying an expensive one could be worth it but consider what it will be used for. It is pointless buying a camera PDA like the Fujitsu-Siemens Loox 720 when the recipient has so many other professional cameras which they would rather use. The need could be for making and organising appointments. In this case there are many simple and affordable PDAs which will save you a lot of money.
Until recently, the only choice of PDAs was the Palm OS or Microsoft's handheld operating system, Pocket PC. There are now RIM BlackBerry devices. These function as mobile phones (smart phones), provide email services, internet web browsing and other wireless data access. This practically performs multifunctional tasks and makes a superb gift for people who are always on the move. In addition to the above, the operating system which it operates is easily synchronised with Microsoft Windows applications including Outlook.
The Siemens SK65, Nokia 6810 and Sony Ericsson P910 are the best Blackberry PDAs in the market. Some additional tips include:
Processor Speed: It is important to note the Processor Speed. Are you buying it for someone who will use it for tasks like Internet access, then you need to have a fast processor. Top models, such as the Dell Axim X50v, have processing speeds of 624Mhz.
Memory Capacity: The memory capacity should be considered. The greater the memory capacity, the more expensive will be the PDA. So think about how much is really needed. The recipient might be using it for storing simple data such as contacts and appointment, in which case the Palm Tungsten W or the Sony Clie PEG-NZ90 which have up to 16 MB will be good gift ideas.
Expansion Cards: Always look for a PDA with an expansion slot to increase memory capacity. Expansion cards enable you to store data on an external device such as a CompactFlash (CF) or Secure Digital (SD) memory card or Microdrive
Synchronisation: Endeavour to make sure that the PDA can be synchronised with the individual's computer system, be it a laptop or desktop computer so that their tasks and data can stay organised.
Battery: Buying spare batteries as part of the gift come in handy as PDA batteries run out quickly when used for a prolonged period on multimedia features or browsing the internet via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
