Transcript Hand Held Computers

Hand Held
Computers
Edwin Feener
Patrick Griffin
J.P. Divers (AWOL)
Description
• Initial models were just fancy gadgets
– capable of basic organizer tasks such as a calendar and address book
• Current models are almost complete computer systems
– offer word processing, spreadsheet, databases, and games
• Major attraction is the ability to transfer data back to a
desktop PC or a laptop (discussed shortly)
• Corporate interest has also increased with the power and
ability of these handheld systems
Data Entry
• Keyboard
• Hand Writing Technology
– tries to read writing and convert it into words
– system ‘learns’ the way a user writes
– becomes increasingly effective as system becomes familiar with
more users
– Apple’s Newton allowed you to set up many users
• Graffitti Approach
– Uses touch screen
– Simplified alphabet which users can learn in about an hour
Operating Systems
• CE
– MS’ offering
– strong initial support due to many Windows
users
– similar GUI to Windows
– support has decreased because:
• too complex
• many limitations
• high battery requirements
Operating Systems…con’t
• EPOC
– Psion Operating System
– has formed partnership with Ericsson, Nokia,
and Motorola
– seeks to become the leading OS due to its
support of increasing wireless capabilities
Operating Systems…concluded
• Palm OS
– OS of PDA leader “Palm Pilot”
– excellent GUI
– Lowest battery use of any OS
– had functionality for administrators to manage PDAs
through help desk and remote access