What Accessories Are Available For a PDA?

What Accessories Are Available For a PDA?

In light of the explosion in PDA's popularity in the past decade, it's kind of surprising how many people are still running around with just the bare unit. They might keep the AC adapter/charger that came with the unit, and might even drop it into a leather pouch when they think of it, but otherwise they miss out on a whole array of gadgets to make their PDA experience something more enjoyable.

Carrying cases are of course one of the most common accessories. It's worth it to get a durable one that looks good and is even stylish. After all, if the thing is going to follow you around every day, it might as well look good while it's doing that! Cases range from simple pouches to little purses to holsters that clip on the belt (for the "I'm Batman!" factor). More durable cases run to aluminum and other metals, for the rugged bush-dweller. Styles range from mod to hipster to snooty goth.

Bluetooth PDA accessories add a whole new dimension to a PDA. With Bluetooth speakers, it can become your personal music station, or with a Bluetooth headset it can become a communications tool.

Data storage options for PDAs are a must-have accessory. Typically a USB-plugged external drive can store anywhere from 128MB to a few Gigs. This extends the functionality of a PDA, and since they're so affordable, a new trend is appearing: the USB thumb-drive ring. This is a keyring with multiple USB thumb-drives on it, so you can keep them organized and have one for documents, one for video files, one for games, and so on.

You also don't have to limit yourself to using a stylus or twiddling your thumbs over an onscreen keyboard. Keyboard accessories, using either a USB plug or Bluetooth, can extend the functionality of a PDA, letting you type in comfort and accuracy on-the-go. Other input accessories include gaming console devices, including mice and joysticks. PDAs are getting powerful enough now to afford a portable gaming solution.

Screen cleaners and screen protectors are another essential accessory. These come in a wide range of solutions designed to do their job well without getting in the way.

One last accessory worth mentioning is the replacement stylus. Yes, sure, you can order the plain black ones - they point, and for some that's all you need. But recently there are modified devices that include a stylus, such as pen combinations, and even laser-pointer combinations, as well as styluses that clip to your pocket and are styled more like a high-end pen. Practical and fashionable.

Filed Under: PDAs • Product Reviews

Tags: PDA Accessories