UPC or Pocket PC?

Long before picking up the Sony U-70 and incorporating it into my daily work regime I was happily using a Windows Mobile based Pocket PC.  I first described my typical work day with the Toshiba e-805 earlier this year and felt it time to update that a little.  I do not think many people realize the utility of well equipped Pocket PCs and mobile professionals should not overlook them as valuable tools.  I still use the Toshiba quite a bit, although the Sony has replaced a lot of the heavy work stuff.  Most people probably don't realize that a properly equipped Pocket PC can provide 90% of the functionality of a good laptop or ultra-portable computer (UPC). 

Pocket PC devices with VGA screens are now readily available and it is this screen advancement that makes these devices a serious alternative to the UPC.  After all, VGA was all we had for a very long time in the early days of computing.  Now you can put these VGA devices in your back pocket (just don't sit down). The advantages of Pocket PC devices over UPCs are primarily:  smaller/ lighter, cheaper, true instant on, inexpensive software, and very long battery life.

The Stowaway Bluetooth keyboard I use with the Sony also works very well with the Toshiba and has replaced the IR keyboard I used in the original article.  It is smaller, lighter, and I can position the Pocket PC more comfortably for viewing with the keyboard's detachable stand.  Since the Toshiba is running Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition, which makes it a snap to switch from portrait to landscape orientation with the touch of a button, I use the keyboard in both orientations from time to time depending on the actual task at hand.  Stowaway has recently announced a Bluetooth mouse for Pocket PCs that is compatible with most devices with integrated Bluetooth.  The mouse should be available in December and coupled with the keyboard can produce a very similar desktop solution to my UPC configuration.

Communications is a snap with integrated WiFi found in most high-end Pocket PCs and many also have Bluetooth.  The Toshiba doesn't have Bluetooth but I use a Socket Compact Flash card to provide the connectivity to the keyboard.  I can also connect wirelessly to my bluetooth cell phone for those times when WiFi is not to be found.  Web browsing is very nice with the VGA screen and more than adequate.  Outlook users can have full use of their email on the Pocket PC with two-way synchronization. 

Pocket PCs with VGA screens will cost you about $500- $600 making them a fraction of the cost of a UPC or laptop.  Throw in good accessories and a Windows Mobile based device can become a very capable traveling companion and you'll still have money left over for room service.  Mobile professionals looking for a serious alternative to a laptop should not overlook the Pocket PC and all it has to offer.

Comments

[bkbroil]

I agree with you....and that bluetooth mouse will make scrolling web pages that much easier....I, however am using the hx4705 and sure miss the Netfront browser...I wish that the Netfront for Toshiba worked on my hx4705. :(

[jk]

I'm still on the fence about the utility of the BT mouse on a PPC but once it's out and I can see it that might change. Netfront doesn't work on the hx4700? I can't wait for Opera to be released soon on Windows Mobile. I have a feeling it will blow everybody away. And Brad can have Opera everywhere finally. :)

[PA]

It's that 10% that turned me off from the PocketPC.

Things like surfing websites and not seeing Java, Javascript, ActiveX, or Flash or the inability to launch Windows Mediaplayer, Winamp, Quicktime, Acrobat, and other apps you take for granted on a laptop.

Using the PocketPC was very liberating but it's limitations to a laptop were so glaring that I kept scrambling for a laptop.

[Raj]

Dear Sir/Madam
I like Windows Mobile based Pocket PC. i need 90% above same function in other computer or laptop. where i will easy to using USP,other importent port & sofficent cell also. please send me information about good functional pocket PC.What types of pocket pc are using the hackers? what requriment pocket PC to easy to hacking.

As soon as possible send me this information and your ideas alsooooooooooo

AP