My Palm in my palm

Bruno Mori
Nov 17, 2005

Mobile communication are everywhere today, cell phones are a must in our society. It is hard to remember the life without them. Other devices are becoming more popular as well. One example is the PDAs. My girlfriend gave me a Palm TX for my birthday. I didn't really understand the power of PDAs, for me it was a device where I could write my schedule and maybe play some games, but there is a lot more to explore in the Palm of your hand.
I couldn't wait to receive the PDA that she had ordered on the Internet for me. When it finally arrived I ripped the box and turned it on. I had no idea about the operating system, but it was easy to configure the WI-FI connection. The amazing part of it was that the Internet was not WAP based (usually used on cell phones), but it was exactly the same as on my PC. Well, some functions like Flash or strumming Videos are not supported by my PDA, but I am sure that there is a way out.
After reading some forums and messageboards, I figured out most of the functions of the Palm TX and downloaded some freeware/shareware games. I couldn't believe the quality of the games and the power of the software. There are all kinds of software imaginable for palms. After going around the Internet, I saw all kinds of software which included software from sales to bartend. The problem on my opinion is the price. There are not so many quality freeware for download.
The Internet also allows me to find driving directions on yahoo maps or mapquest. I was amazed because I don't have to write or print out the directions everytime I go somewhere. With my PDA, I search for the directions at home and save the webpage because there is no WI-FI on the freeway. Also if I am lost on the way, I could stop at a Hot Spot and get new directions. This would be very efficient for delivery drivers since GPS are still to expensive today.
One of the functions that surprised me the most besides the power of the WI-FI was the beam/infrared technologies that are also embedded on the Palm TX. I have downloaded a software that makes my PDA a remote control for any kind of TV or remote control device. I don't have the problem of losing the remote anymore. My PDA will be always the backup, but if I lose my PDA it will be a big loss.
My uncle bought a Life Drive (top of the line) ; he looked like a child with a new toy. If you are thinking "to buy or not to buy", there is no question, buy your PDA it is worth it. Make sure that your PDA has WI-FI I think it is the basics. I recommend the Palm TX for everyone. It has all the functions of the Life Drive of Palm, but with an more affordable price ($250-$299). Well, the memory is lower than Life Drive, but memory cards (SD) do the job.