Selecting the Perfect PDA

I’ve been struggling to find the perfect PDA ever since having, for some reason or another, burnt out my desire for an iPod Nano. There were just too many crap features I didn’t need (and didn’t want to pay for) in many of the best-rated handhelds on the market.

Now, I knew what I needed:

• Microsoft Windows Mobile-powered
  Palm OS may be fat-free and fast, but there’s just not enough functionality for me.
• Fast Processor
  None of that sub-400MHz Intel XScale processors for me. At least 520Mhz.
• Both CompactFlash and SD slots
  With dual expansion slots, you’re talking about crazy amounts of memory. And a CF slot would help if I needed any add-ons in the future.
• Wi-FI Support
  Self-explanatory.
• Bluetooth Support
  Infra-red is passe. ‘Nuff said.
• 3.5″+ Screen
  Not asking for much in this department. As long as it’s bigger than 3.5″, I’m happy.
• Sub-200g Weight
  Again, this is a pretty reasonable requirement, especially when you consider what I don’t need in my PDA.

Of course, I also knew what I absolutely didn’t need:

• Integrated Camera
  These always command a price and size premium. I’ve never been a fan of integrated cameras, and I prefer thinner handhelds.
• Integrated Phone
  Nope. This is another size bumper. Even if the combined product is smaller than two separate ones, I like the reliability and form factor of two individual products.
• Full Keyboard
  While one-handed use is great, I’m fine with using both hands and a stylus. And the size a full keyboard adds is intolerable, especially since I won’t be using the PDA as a phone.

And with this list(s), I marched into the PIKOM PC Fair II (on the 12th) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

But as you’ll find out later, it was to be 6 hours of unfruitful labour.