Chapter 13 - Internet Smart Handheld Devices

Abstract

This chapter focuses on Internet smart handheld devices (SHD). Internet SHDs provide direct Internet access using an add-on or integrated modem. SHDs include handheld companions, smart handheld phones, and vertical application devices (VAD). VADs are pen-and keypad-based devices that are used in specific vertical applications in a variety of industries. Key applications for VADs include: routing, collecting, and delivering data for a vendor in the transportation industry, and providing physicians access to patient's records in hospitals. Smart phones are usually cellular voice handsets that also have the ability to run light applications, store data within the device, and in some cases, synchronize with other devices such as a PC. Smart handheld phones also include the emerging enhanced, super-portable cellular phones that enable both voice and data communications. Some of the applications for smart handheld phones include cellular voice communications, Internet access, calendar, and Rolodex data such as names, addresses, and phone numbers. On the other hand, handheld companions include personal and PC companions, and personal digital/data assistants (PDA). PC companions normally feature a keyboard, a relatively large screen, a Type I and/or II PC card expansion slot, the Windows PocketPC operating system, data synchronization with a PC, and in some instances, a modem for wire-line Internet access, and a pen input for use with a touch screen. While PDA is effectively a handheld PC, capable of handling all the normal tasks of its leather-bound ancestor—address book, notepad, appointments diary, and phone list.