TABLET PC OR PDA - WHICH GADGET IS BEST FOR YOUR NEEDS?

Mobile professionals need a device that they can carry around without having to compromise on the day to day tasks they need to perform. So what gadget is best for your needs?

PDAs are attractive because of their small size and reasonable price. But they do not offer as much functionality as a laptop does. A viable alternative is the tablet PC. Before you choose a device, you need to evaluate the specific requirements of your job. You may also want to consider budget constraints if any.

Tablet PC Pros & Cons
Because of their relatively large size, tablet PCs offer a working environment similar to that offered by laptops and desktops. They also come with touchscreens and digital pens which are ideal for taking notes during meetings or conference calls. Tablet PCs are usually compatible with all Windows compatible applications, so you will not have to purchase additional software. On the flip side, tablet PCs are costlier than PDAs. They are larger too.

PDA Pros & Cons
PDAs are lightweight, so you can easily carry them around. Prices are reasonable. They start up fast and you will be able to enter data quickly. Some higher-end models will allow you to upgrade the RAM when you feel the need to. A number of freeware programs are available for PDAs. PDAs also face considerably reduced threat of virus attacks. On the flip side, because of the small viewing area reading long pieces of information can get tiresome.

Some PDAs are based on the Palm OS; some are based on the Windows OS. So before you purchase the device you need to make sure that the software included with the device will be compatible with the software used by your organization.

STYLISH LAPTOP CASES FOR YOUR NEEDS

Laptop Cases

Our laptops are a big investment in money and a good laptop case is a must if you want to protect your computer.

Laptop cases are usually boring. They almost always look like a bad briefcase, usually too bloated and frankly everyone can tell that you are lugging around your laptop. Many companies are coming out with some very interesting laptop cases that will have you computing in style.

Saks Fifth Avenue has a gorgeous Juicy Couture Velour Laptop Case. Carry your laptop around in a hot pink. The handles are faux leather and is has a mesh trimmed studded logo. It has a zip top that only opens 1/3 of the bag as opposed to the average laptop case which opens fully so one can use the computer while resting it on their lap. There is an outer zip pocket to keep pens and other materials. The laptop case is fully lined, measures 13½"W X 11"H X 1½"D and is made of a cotton/polyester blend. This case also retails for $95.00.

Pinder has some great laptop cases, including one that is thin enough to put into your regular bag. Called the 'Thin', it holds a surprisingly large amount of items. It will hold your laptop as well as all of the cords, power supply and mouse. It has a full 1/4" of closed cell padding on all sides of the laptop case. This offers a good amount of protection for your laptop, including protection from the zipper when the case is closed. There is padding just below the zipper. Pinder offers many sizes for the laptop case, so you are sure to find one perfect for your computer. It also comes in many colors which makes it a great fit for men or women. The Thin laptop case also comes with a shoulder strap and is 55% for the holidays. This is a great deal because this laptop case retails at $57.95. Pinder is also offering free shipping until December 31.

Looking for a little more protection in your laptop case? The Pelican 1495CC1 Laptop Case is crushproof, dustproof and watertight. This case even has a 3 dial combination lock to keep your laptop secured. If you don't think the combination lock is enough, padlock loops are also built into the case. This space age laptop case even boasts a automatic pressure equalization valve. The interior includes a nylon padded sleeve that the laptop fits into as well as a shock absorbing tray, lid organizer and padded shoulder strap. This particular laptop case fits laptops up to 17" but if you have a larger laptop, Pelican offers many other laptop cases. It also has an optional nameplate that can be personalized. The Pelican 1495CC1 comes with a lifetime guarantee.

These three cases are a great example of how laptop cases can be stylish and functional. Whether you want a Juicy Couture Velour Laptop Case, Pinder Thin laptop case or the Fort Knox like Pelican 1495CC1, you are sure to find a laptop case for your needs.