Research for eBook: Handheld computing

What are handheld devices:

- Handheld devices are portable computers that are small enough to be held in somebody’s hand and are very convenient to use and carry . typically having a display screen with touch input and/or a miniature keyboard that can be slided out 

- They are  typically used for PIM (personal information manager) purposes such as maintaining schedules, keeping names and phone numbers, doing simple calculations, taking notes, and, with an internet connection, exchanging e-mail and getting information from the Web. 
more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_digital_assistant#Medical_and_scientific_uses

Types: 
- PDAs 
- netbooks 
- smartphones 


- media players


How do handheld devices work:
- powered by microprocessors 
- Don't have hard disk drives 
- Have LCD screen used for output as well as input 

more info:  http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/cell-phone6.htm

http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/travel/pda5.htm

Future developments:

refer to: http://www.jldcreative.com/blog/details/The-history-and-future-of-portable-computing-where-will-it-end.html