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Internet-ready handheld devices have many advantages over standard PCs:
Lighter than a laptop. Your laptop is portable, but it can't go everywhere with you. Even ultralight models weigh at least four pounds and require their own carrying cases. In other words: A laptop doesn't fit in your pocket. Also, you can't discreetly boot up your laptop when you're in a conference session, at a business dinner, or in your car. Handheld devices are perfect for these situations because they can provide quick, convenient, discreet Internet access.
E-mail everywhere. With wireless Web access you can stay connected to your office whether you're stuck on the bus or away on a weeklong business trip. Some portable devices even have always-on Internet access, which saves you the time and trouble of establishing a dialup connection. Being able to unobtrusively check your e-mail will also let you take urgent messages without disrupting meetings and other important events with phone calls.
Cords no more. A wireless Internet connection means no phone lines, extra cords, or external modems to lug around or to get tangled up in. The same can't be said for laptop computers, which quickly become a headache when you start to add wires, cables, and other external components.
Better battery life. A typical laptop computer battery lasts only three or four hours - if you're lucky. Some PDAs can run for weeks on a single charge, which means you don't have to drag along a battery charger or extra batteries on your business trips. Even standard mobile phone batteries last longer than laptop computers, providing up to 150 hours of standby time or several hours of talk time.
An up-to-date date. Wireless Web access lets you download timely information such as business news, stock prices, sports scores, and driving directions. Having immediate access to this sort of information can be advantageous, especially if you're monitoring sensitive financial or business data.
Less is more. Why not consolidate all of your electronic devices so you don't have to carry around a gaggle of gadgets? Some handheld devices, such as cellular phones with built-in PDAs, perform a variety of functions. One device that makes phone calls, keeps your appointments, lets you write documents, and even provides Internet access will save you money and baggage.
To learn more about the range of features on handheld devices, read Pros and Cons of Handleld Computing Devices. The truly mobile office may want to consider Integrating Wireless Laptops and Handheld Devices in Enterprise Applications.
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