Pocket PCs In The College Of Education

As of Fall 2004, the Education Office of Information Technology is supporting Dell Axim Pocket PCs.

NEW: How to configure PAL2.0 on your Dell Axim Pocket PC

What is a Pocket PC? 

A Pocket PC is a small handheld device that gives you a limited subset of the functionality of a desktop or laptop computer.  A Pocket PC is not a laptop and is not a substitute for a laptop.  The main strengths of Pocket PCs are: Calendaring, Notes, and Contacts.  If you need to access your calendar or contacts as you travel, or if you need to scribble short notes in meetings, a Pocket PC may be just what you are looking for.  However, if you need fast, reliable, and feature-rich access to network resources such as Email and Web, you may find a Pocket PC (or any small handheld device) frustrating.  Unfortunately, Pocket PC networking technology is not mature.  VPNs are not fully supported and can be difficult to configure.  Wireless, Wired, and Dial-Up networking is supported only in limited ways.  Those who need robust and feature-rich access to network resources should consider a small laptop.  There are some very small lightweight laptops on the market that can recreate a desktop environment while you are on the go (for example, check out the Dell Latitude X300).  Having said all that, if you are adventurous and enjoy discovering emerging technologies, and if you have need for a "calendar in your pocket", then the Education IT team would encourage you to purchase a Dell Axim Pocket PC.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact your Education IT team at edit@purdue.edu.