I need a PDA
by Ok, forget the laptop... I could really use a PDA. I was out in service and the brother I was with pulled out his PDA to mark down future return-visits, and I said to myself, "You're a much bigger geek than this guy, why don't YOU have a PDA". And I have to admit, myself made a good point.
Ok, Here's what I need: Linux operating system (no PocketPC!!), Java, color screen, (if its not to much more, TFT lcd, and a good resolution). Its gotta have the ability to do WiFi (either integrated or expansion card.
I don't know ANYTHING about PDAs. Are there any good sites with comparison of ones out there on the market or a yea or two old? (I might grab one off of eBay if its a good deal)
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seriously, you came to the right place. I am THE most PDA obsessed person. You have NO idea. I'm on my 6th PDA.
Why do you want a linux based one? The idea of open source is good if you're going to write ALL your own applications- but you'll find WAAAAY more apps wirtten for Palm OS than anything else.
Figure out which is more important to you - Internet over Cellular, or Wifi. (I chose Internet over cellular, only because the PDAs that have both are not that great.)
Next, figure out which you would rather do - type the data in on a small keypad, or do grafitti. If you plan to answer email, IMs, or stuff like that, choose a keyboard. If you want to just type in a phone number, a few addresses, whatever - use grafitti. (a keyboard definitely adds to the weight of the device). I chose a keyboard - because I love to IM while I'm chillin in the park, in the car, whatever - plus, my boss has no idea where I am.
If you definitely want Linux, look at the Zaurus. It's big, bulky, and ugly - but it does Linux.
yeah, I'm not sure what I'm gonna do with it yet, basically the normal pda stuff, like appointments, ntoes, etc. But I also might want to hack around in it, so if it was linux that'd be a little easier to do, but its not top priority. I guess I have a lot to think about as far as features, but the integrated keyboard is pretty cool.
Theres Java VR on palmOS isn't there? At least you could do Java right?
mount /dev/linux ~/palm()S
Linux PDAs: http://www.pdabuyersguide.com/linux.htm
But, I'd suggest using a PalmOS based PDA, instead of Linux. The amount of software and ministry oriented apps is really helpful. current palms: http://www.pdabuyersguide.com/pilot.htm
If you need wifi, you can either get one with it built-in, or get an add on card. That'll be at least $300. here's some wifi reviews for pdas: http://www.pdabuyersguide.com/tips/wifi.htm
wifi memory stick cards are $129.99, son!