Information about PDA cables changes rapidly in the face of new technology, such as network swapping serial ports for USB pins in the base port of mobile phones. Consumers have to make some smart purchasing decisions. A solution for wireless PDA data cables is made more complicated by distinctions between USB hosts and USB peripherals. Two USB peripherals can’t communicate directly to each other, and phones and PDA’s are tagged as USB peripherals.

Changes in technology affect PDA cable connectivity just like any other hand-held component. Consider these steps when choosing PDA cable sellers:

1. Consider a PDA cable that charges your PDA when synchronizing with your laptop.

2. List the devices you need to link to your PDA data cables before you go shopping.

3. Determine if you need your PDA cables to have special features like “remote wake-up."

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get auto-retractable PDA cables for charging

An auto-retractable PDA charger cable for Sony Clie, Palm m500/505 and Compaq iPAQ allows you to synchronize data and charge your PDA with one cable. The retractable charger cable allows easy access to power sources from all computers.

I recommend: Get an auto-retractable PDA charger cable from UPO Technical Products, a PDA cable seller. Having acquired your marvel of an apparatus, you may dispose of the old cradle – you won’t need it anymore. For those of you who still carry both a mobile phone and a PDA, you will want to purchase the auto-retractable PDA and cell phone charger cable from UPO for the best of both modern gadgets.

Ask PDA cable distributors how to convert your serial to USB

The IOGEAR USB to Serial/PDA Converter Cable allows a PC/Mac connection with serial devices to a USB port.

I recommend: Avoid setup hassles associated with old serial ports. Get a USB plug/serial adapter from your online PDA cable suppliers. The USB plug/serial adapter from IOGEAR works great for converting your serial interface to USB. This adapter gives you an external serial (DB-9 male) plug-n-play connection for use with your hand held or any other computer with USB. Also check the latest deals with Cables To Go, a good reseller in the PDA cable business.

Shop PDA cable suppliers that carry interchangeable PDA cables

A solution for wireless cables between PDAs and phones is to purchase an additional device from PDA cable sellers. That's right -- you'll have to purchase one more gizmo from your PDA cable providers. The ComCube from Gomadic has interchangeable cables to allow the user to connect different PDAs, phones, and laptops. Multiple devices can be made wireless with the ComCube. One ComCube can enable wireless connections for both your PDA and laptop at the same time.

I recommend: Purchase PDA cables that are interchangeable. Mate and pair different PDAs, phones, and laptops, all with one ComCube. Data transferring speeds range from 56Kbps to over 100Kbps

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Purchase PDA cables that allow you to both charge and synchronize your device. Make sure that your PDA cable providers are giving you the best deal. Sometimes the manufacturer has a better price than the reseller.