Guide to PDA Software

Get the most out of your PDA with the latest personal digital assistant software

By Marianne Cotter, Freelance writer

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

Choose PDA software that's compatible with your operating system

Your operating system is your first path to PDA software. Whether your personal digital assistant runs on Palm OS, Windows CE or BlackBerry, a wealth of software options awaits you. Each operating system has a website offering PDA software downloads as well as PDA accessories, news and updates.

I recommend: PalmOne Software is headquarters for PDA software for the Palm, Treo and other Palm OS devices. BlackBerry Smartphone desktop software works with your PDA software and lets you synchronize your email, contacts and calendar between your smartphone and your PC. Windows CE is Microsoft’s operating system for handheld computers and has been used as a base for the development of many PDA platforms like Windows Mobile and Pocket PC. Windows Mobile Software page is a good starting point for software downloads.

Invest in PDA software that will keep your device secure

If your PDA is connected to the Internet, you need PDA software that provides a firewall and virus protection. While hackers have not pursued PDAs and other mobile devices with the same vigor they direct toward desktop applications, there have been some notable exceptions. And a lost PDA can mean comprised data.

I recommend: McAfee’s Triple Play offers integrated desktop, mobile and wireless protection. GuardianEdge’s Mobile Edge Device Security offers PDA software that protects corporate data on PDAs, smartphones and other handheld devices. Appian’s PocketLock is password-protected encryption software that allows you to lock specific files or folders on Pocket PC and Windows CE PDAs.

Shop webstores that specialize in PDA software

Many webstores specialize in mobile software downloads and offer a wide range of PDA software applications as well as PDA accessories.

I recommend: In addition to PDA software downloads searchable by operating system, PDA Street is a great mobile resource center with news, forums and PDA price comparisons. See PDA Street’s Daylight Savings Update for information about how to get your PDA in sync with the changes in daylight savings dates. Handango offers extensive PDA software plus a free PDA software application download every Friday. CNET Network’s Mobile page offers software downloads for a range of platforms and PDAs. The Pocket Solution carries a full line of PDA accessories from cases, screen protectors car chargers and adapters searchable by PDA model. Handmark’s Pocket Express offers a package of personal digital assistant software applications including maps, weather, search, news, stocks and travel.

Find free PDA software

Free PDA software can include anything from crossword puzzles to GPS maps to professional applications.

I recommend: Free PDA Software has games and utilities as well as links to other free PDA software resources. FreewarePPC.com offers free PDA software for Windows Mobile and Pocket PC. GetJar.com offers free PDA software downloads for Palm and Pocket PC software searchable by PDA device.

PDA software for professionals

Many standard tools and references for various professions have been optimized for PDAs with PDA software.

I recommend: Handango sells a variety of medical reference programs including The Merck Manual for Mobile Devices. Skyscape specializes in clinical PDA software programs for doctors and nurses. Windows Mobile’s Legal and Professional Services offers software for lawyers to track and bill client time, track expenses, capture audio interview and depositions and to access cases, statutes, regulations and news.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  As devices continue to consolidate, expect to see PDA software that encompasses PDAs, smartphones, music players and more.
• •  Search for personal digital assistant software that supports your occupation. Many niche applications address specific industries and jobs.
• •  Companies that issue PDAs and smartphones to employees should track and protect those devices just as they would desktop PCs.
• •  Keep your personal digital assistant operating system up to date so it can handle the latest PDA software.