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What does PDA stand for?
PDA stands for "Personal Digital Assistant." A PDA is the generic term for a handheld computer/organizer. PDAs are
also referred to as palmtops, handhelds, "Palms," "Palm Pilots," and pocket computers.
How can a dietitian benefit from a PDA?
Briefly, a PDA helps you organize your time, tasks, appointments, events, and contact information.
It also aids in nutrition assessment, data lookup (such as nutrient value of foods or drug-nutrient interactions),
and calculations such as BMI and energy requirements. For more detailed information, see our article on
PDAs and the Dietitian.
Do a lot of dietitians use PDAs?
PDAs are becoming very popular among dietitians.
According to a recent poll in Today's Dietitian,
32% of dietitians use PDAs in their practice, and 33% are considering buying one.
How much do PDAs cost?
PDAs range from under $100 to as much as $600, and more for add-ons. To figure out which PDA is right for you,
check our product comparison chart.
Where can I get software for my PDA?
Over time, you will be able to buy software at a discount directly from us here at pdaRD.
Until then, visit the manufacturer's web site and read up on how to purchase.
Check out our updated nutrition software charts.
What is a HotSync?
HotSync is the registered trade name for the method of transferring information between a handheld
device and a notebook, desktop, or other computer. The process is accomplished by using a cradle or a Hotsync cable.
Information can also be transferred using wireless connections and infrared radiation (IR) in some situations. It
is imprortant to HotSync regularaly! We recommend once a day.
How do I access my PDA information on my desktop or notebook computer?
You can use the software that your PDA comes with for your computer (calendar, contacts, memos, etc.), or you
may choose to use Microsoft Outlook.
What is "beaming"?
This is one of the most fun things about owning a PDA. "Beaming" is transferring information from one PDA
to another. This technology uses an infrared port. So for example, you can share programs, files, and contact information.
One of the most common things to "beam" is your business card (you would create one in your Contacts--it's just a contact for you!).
You can also "beam" files from your PDA to a printer that is infrared-enabled.
What happens if my battery runs down?
All new PDAs need to be fully charged before using. It is important to pay attention to the battery icon on your
screen so you know when you'll soon need to charge (it's sort of like the gas guage in your car).
If the battery in your handheld "dies," all data stored in memory is lost.
However, performing another Hotsync operation once the battery is recharged restores information
saved from the last HotSync operation. If you HotSync daily, even running out of battery power shouldn't be a problem.
What is Graffiti?
Graffiti is the trade name for the specialized set of characters that the Palm recognizes. You can see how to do graffiti
here.Think of it as built-in
handwriting recognition... except you have to learn the handwriting! It is just one of the many ways of entering
data into a PDA. Graffiti involves a small writing instrument called a stylus--which resembles a pen without ink--
to write letters, numbers, and punctuation on the screen.
The PDA recognizes these characters as if they were keyboard entries.
The program that allows input using this set of characters is also called Graffiti.
(In Italian, a graffito is a scribbling; the plural form is often used to describe the scribblings people do on walls, fences, subways, and so forth.)
What's the best way to enter all your information such as names, addresses, and calendar events?
There are several ways to input information; it usually comes down to a matter of personal preference.
You can use Graffiti, but for some the task may become tedious and time-consuming.
You can use the onscreen alpha and numeric pads available, but again time becomes an issue.
External keyboards or devices with keyboards built in are another option for some PDAs. If you don't travel much
and use your main computer frequently, enter information on your computer and perform a HotSync.
What if I start to run out of memory and can't afford to buy a new PDA?
Most PDAs come with expandable memory capabilities.
You should be able to purchase either a Memory Stick if you own a Sony product or SD Expansion Card
for a Palm product. Expandable memory comes in sizes from 32 MB to 128 MB.
Most Pocket PCs come with more memory to begin with.
Which PDA should I get?
First, decide whether you want a Palm Operating System or Pocket PC (Windows-like) Operating System.
Palm OS's are more commonly used and are less expensive.
Pocket PCs are more powerful.
A major deciding factor for health professionals is whether the software they want is available
for the OS they have, so do your homework before you buy. And take a look at our comparison chart for more information.
Can I use the Internet and email with a PDA?
Yes, depending on the PDA model. Your choices are a built-in wireless connectivity, or an attached wireless modem.
If your PDA doesn't have the ability to connect directly with the Internet, you can still view select Web Pages by downloading
them into your PDA when you do a HotSync.
AvantGo allows you to do this.
Why is a PDA better than my trusty Black Book?
Have you ever said, "What would I do if I lost my organizer?" With a PDA, you don't have to worry about misplacing
or losing your paper-based organizers. Your PDA and your computer together provide a backup of your personal
information, so if your computer crashes or if you lose your PDA, you can still easily replace either.
Another bonus of an electronic system is that you can quickly search
your personal information to find records in your address book, calendar, or to-do list. Say good-bye to sticky notes!
Aren't PDAs easy to break?
Not really; they're quite sturdy. This is not to say that you should play catch with them; you should exercise caution
with your PDA as you would with any electronic device. Always keep the cover on when not in use; probably the most
common physical damage to a PDA is to the glass screen. PDA warranties usually do not cover screen damage.
What is PQA?
PQA stands for palm query application. They are files used on PDAs with an Internet connection. Users need special libraries from the Palm Mobile Internet Kit (MIK) to run pqa files. The MIK is sold at the Palm web site for $39.95 and it includes OS 3.5.
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