Most PDA's today use operating systems written by either Palm (Palm OS) or Microsoft (Windows CE). FarmHand will now run on any of these devices.
It will also run on some older models such as the Palm V, Vx, Palm M500 series. Although these were great when they first came out, it's likely that they are now a bit too slow for your requirements these days and also lack modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity.
Benefits
Take it with you wherever you go! Your vital information's available at the press of the green button anytime you need it
They're easy to use and can even recognise hand-written entries in an easily learned sketch 'language'
Most have backlit screens which make them easier to use at night.
No more keyboard data entry on your PC! A single button press transfers all your data to and from it.
Interfaces with popular dairy packages either directly or through Industry Standard (DIF) files.
Charging is done through a cradle but increasingly through a cable, which can also be done via cigarette lighter.
The memory is usually so big these days that expansion cards are not neccessary.
Prices are always competitive if you shop around and and each range seems to offer increased veratility
as well as FarmHand for instance...
What software comes bundled with today's Palm connected organisers?
Typically this includes a Date Book, Calculator, Address Book, Clock, To Do List, Memo Pad, Mail, Expense Diary. There are also thousands of third-party programs available from freeware games. There are even programs around that handle GPS software (Global Positioning Satellite) and remote control of your TV and video.
How much space does FarmHand take up?
A 500 cow herd including heifers and calves and 2 years worth of data and latest herd test figures in takes less than 0.5 Mb. The program itself is around 700K so is around 1Mb in total.
What model should I go for?
The main guideline these days seems to be if you need Bluetooth capability or not (BT).
This means they can communicate to other devices up to quite a distance apart. This used to mean BT-enabled phones but in the case of Farmhand, it also means connecting to electronic stick readers, wall panels and Bar-code printers. Good models to look for currently would have to be the Palm E2 or TX and the HP iPAQ models. If you need a device with a builtiin phone the Treo750 is a great unit.
For up-to-date details on Palm/Treo Models, check out www.palm.com.au
The HP equivalent is here and browse to the section for 'Handhelds and Calculators'
Where can I buy a suitable device?
Stores such has Harvey Norman , Harris Technology and Dick Smiths are a good starting points, but eBay is a good alternative if you know what to look out for. Models from the U.S. are OK but check out the voltage and plug adapters.
*** Officeworks used to be a good source, but it's a dead loss on the internet. Try putting 'Palm, PDA, Treo etc into their search bar and see what happens. They don't even have them listed in their technology page - but you might be lucky if you happen to be passing by. All stores will match anothers prices if you can demonstrate what that is.