FAQ
- Operating systems
- Hardware/handheld devices
- Hardware/peripherals
- Software/applications
- Professional development
Operating systems
What is the difference between the Palm operating system and Windows Mobile (also know as Pocket PC)?
Palm and Windows Mobile are two different operating systems. (This is similar to the way in which Windows and Macintosh are different operating systems.) Devices such as the Palm handhelds and the Sony CLIÉ handhelds run on the Palm OS. Devices such as Hewlett-Packard's iPAQ run on the Windows Mobile OS. This distinction is important because software for the Palm OS will not run on Windows Mobile devices and vice versa.
Which is a better operating system — Windows Mobile or Palm?
Each operating system has its pros and cons. The Palm OS is simpler to use and maintain, and there is more educational software available. Windows Mobile is favored by some IT staffs because it runs a Microsoft operating system, but the devices tend to be more expensive.
If you'd like to talk to us about which operating system might better suit your own needs, drop us a line.
Will all software that runs on the Palm OS run on all Palm OS devices?
In general, the answer is yes. Software that is written for an operating system should run on all devices that run that operating system. This is true for Palm OS software just as it is for Windows software. Software that runs on Windows works on all Windows computers, no matter who makes them. The same is true for Palm OS software. (Note: There are a few Palm OS programs that were developed early on that have compatibility issues. Also, software that requires special peripherals or expansion modules require that hardware to operate.)
Will software that runs on the iPAQ or other Windows Mobile devices run on the Palm?
No
Hardware/handheld devices
What's an iPAQ?
An iPAQ is a handheld computer made by Hewlett-Packard which runs the Windows Mobile (Pocket PC) operating system. See here for more information on this handheld.
Which model of handheld is best suited to my needs?
There are many models of handhelds to suit your needs. Important considerations are cost, memory, color capability, size, battery life (or rechargeable battery capability) and expansion capabilities. If you'd like to talk with us about your specific needs, drop us a line.
How much do handheld computers cost?
Depending on the model of handheld computer you want, they can cost anywhere from under $100 to $500.
Aren't kids likely to break handhelds?
It's certainly possible, and for that reason, you may want to consider an inexpensive replacement insurance policy for your school's handhelds. There are also cases available that make breakage less likely. It's interesting to note that most of the schools we've talked to find that students are very responsible about taking care of their handheld devices though. (This is similar to the findings in many student laptop projects.)
Don't kids have a hard time reading the screen of a handheld?
Most kids don't seem to have any problem reading the screen of these devices. They are accustomed to GameBoys and other electronic devices with smaller screens. (It's us adults who have a harder time! Remember that you can adjust font size.)
Why can't I find the Margi Presenter-to-Go product?
Unfortunately, this product has been discontinued by the manufacturer. The only similar product we are aware of at the present time is the Pitch from iGo; however, we do not sell this product. If what you want is to be able to show your Palm screen through the projector (as opposed to doing PowerPoints) and don't mind if a laptop or desktop is involved, there are some inexpensive software-only solutions that let you hook your handheld to a computer and mirror what's on your handheld. One such program for Palm is HandShare. A classroom license for HandShare is available through K12 Handhelds. For Windows Mobile, we'd suggest Pocket Controller.
Hardware/peripherals
Will the peripherals I buy for one handheld work with another?
In general, no. The expansion capabilities of one handheld are often different from those of another (sometimes even from the same manufacturer). Check the requirements of the peripheral or accessory to be sure though.
Will the keyboard I buy for one handheld work with another?
In general, no, unless it is the same model of handheld. Some wireless or infrared keyboards are designed to be compatible across several handheld models. Check the requirements of the specific keyboard to be sure.
What are expansion card slots?
The expansion card slot is a slot that can hold different types of cards, such as SD, MMC, or CF. These cards are small, inexpensive, and easy to plug in. Much like computer diskettes, they hold information for upload or download onto a handheld. With them, you can instantly add software programs, ebooks, large databases, graphics, or even video files to your handheld without sacrificing memory space. Some peripherals, like wireless cards, also connect through expansion card slots.
What are your favorite expansion peripherals?
One of of our favorites is the Socketcom bar code scanner. The Palm Wi-Fi card is another useful expansion add-on. Another great educational tool is data probes that can measure things like temperature, light, voltage, and more.
Software/applications
How are educators using handheld computers?
Educators are using handhelds for administration, communication, collaboration, and teaching and learning. There are more than 101 GREAT educational uses for your handheld computer. See here for some case studies on specific ways educators are using handhelds.
What is the best software for educators?
There is a lot of great software for handhelds for educators. Check here for a listing. Some of our favorites are AvantGo, Documents to Go, Inspiration, and Quizzler.
Where can I find good software?
Here are some links that have a wide selection of handheld software:
Handango
Palm
PalmGear
PocketGear
Freeware PPC
Freeware Palm
Where can I find good ebooks for handhelds?
Below are some links that have a wide selection of ebooks. Make sure to also visit our ebook page.
Ebook Readers:
Adobe Acrobat Reader
CspotRun
Express Reader Pro
iSilo
Microsoft Reader
MobiPocket Reader
eReader
TealDoc
TomeRaider
Ebooks (content):
Adobe's eBooks Central
Amazon
MemoWare
eReader
Fictionwise
Project Gutenberg
University of Virginia's Electronic Text Center
Professional development
Do you offer on-site workshops?
Yes, we do. Our on-site workshops cover a variety of topics and are customized to your specific needs. We provide color reference guides for all participants and include follow-up email and phone support. All of our workshops are specifically geared toward educators.
How much are your on-site workshops?
The cost depends on the length of the workshop, the number of participants, and the subject matter. If you'd like to discuss your specific needs, let us know, and we'll be happy to get you a proposal and a price.
Do you offer workshops that individual participants can sign up for?
Yes, we offer a limited number of “open enrollment” workshops, many of which are at conferences. Check here for a current list of our offerings. You might also want to sign up for our free email newsletter to be notified of future offerings.
