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How we tested
InteroperabilityWhat platform does the device run on? How easy is it to use the connectivity features such as WLAN?
Futureproofing
What expansion slots are available? Are emerging standards like WLAN and Bluetooth supported?
ROI
Are the features and functionality suitable for the target market?
Service
How long is the warranty and what are the conditions?
Our test aimed to get an estimate of the maximum wireless range available to the PDAs and whether the open distance achieved differed greatly between the models.
Our test rig included an Intel P4 1.7GHz network client, an Intel Celeron 1Ghz notebook with Sparklan 802.1b network card, a Linksys 54G network card and a Linksys WAP 54G Wireless Access Point.
As described in the article no testing could be completed on either the HP or the Symbol devices.
The Intermec reached 106 metres from our AP. The Toshiba was an acceptable 50 metres while the Palm was only able to manage 32 metres.
- Plenty of expandable memory storage, such as CompactFlash and Secure Digital/Multimedia Card slots.
- Fast processing speed, particularly if you are planning to run processor-intensive applications such as multimedia presentations.
- Secure docking in the PDA for the stylus.
- Expansion capabilities, such as VGA output, digital camera, Bluetooth, and so on.
- Company: BB's Bargain Book Basement. This retail chain wants to roll out wireless handhelds for its sales, shelf-stacking and warehouse staff so they can access catalogues and stock databases wherever they are.
Approximate budget:Â $4000 per handheld.
Requires:Â 150 robust handheld devices with Wi-Fi built in.
Concerns:Â The company insists on handhelds with wireless capability built in. The devices need to be relatively robust and have a Web browser.
Best solution: The best choice would have to be either the Intermec or Symbol; the ruggedness of these devices perfectly suit this application. It is very difficult to pick a clear winner. The Symbol was definitely the more compact of the two units. Battery life would be optimal on Intermect unit with the monochrome screen. Both docking cradles also feature a space for a spare battery, which could be very handy in these environments.
- Company: Squeez-ee Juice Company. This company needs wireless devices for their sales staff who randomly come into the office during the week to access the database, and update their calendars and contact lists while they are there.
Approximate budget:Â $1200 per handheld.
Requires:Â 80 handheld devices with Wi-Fi built in.
Concerns:Â Devices must include a Web browser to access via the WLAN. Should be relatively light and portable for use in the field.
Best solution: In this case, the best choice is definitely the HP iPAQ 5450; its level of refinement is ahead of both the Toshiba and the Palm. It lacks a CF slot, but has Bluetooth or wireless LAN integrated. The protective casing shows HP's design efforts to provide as much protection as possible without affecting the usability of the device.
Editors' choice: Intermec 700 Series
Highly commended: Symbol PPT8846, HP iPAQ H5450
The Intermec is ideal for a rough warehouse environment with its rugged casing, monochrome screen, barcode scanner, and excellent battery handling options. We were equally impressed with Symbol's rugged handheld, but wireless issues meant we could not award it an Editors' Choice. Similarly, the HP iPAQ combines the best of HP and Compaq's handheld expertise in the best office product we looked at, but once again the wireless problems we had in testing robbed it of the top gong.
Final words
PDAs are certainly very handy tools providing adequate planning and training is given on their implementation within the business. As with any relatively new technology, there will always be the knockers or slow adopters resistant to change. It is worthwhile listening and evaluating their opinions, as they are the ones who must use these tools and ultimately decide whether they are effective or not. Also, it is worthwhile ensuring you match your tools with needs; as you can see, these devices are designed for very different applications.
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