StocKeeper Companion:
Herd-Pro Software's Guide to Palm OS Handheld Computers
StocKeeper Companion runs on any Palm OS Handheld computer. This page
was designed to help you get a better idea as to the variety of hardware,
software, and accesory choices available for Palm OS Handhelds. This page
is divided into several sections:
- Palm OS Hardware
- How a Palm OS Handheld works
- Palm OS Accessories
- Other Palm OS Software recommendations
Palm OS Handheld PDAs
The Palm OS is an operating system, just as Windows is, and, just like
windows, there are several different computers you can purchase to run
the Palm OS. There are four major companies currently productin Palm OS
Handheld computers. All of these companies are good companies making quality
products, so the company you purchase from is less important than choosing
the product that has the features you are looking for.
Note that our software does not run on Pocket PC handhelds at this time. You will want to make sure the handheld you purchase runs the Palm OS.
The biggest difference between the Palm OS handheld computer options will be memory (most farms will run just fine with 2mb. Most Palm Handhelds come with 8mb or more build in) and screen quality (color vs. black and white). Many Palms now offer advanced features as well including built in cameras, wireless internet, and blue tooth connectivity.
The most popular Palm OS Hanheld manufacturers include:
Prices can range from $100 to $400 depending on features. For most farm needs and environments, we recommend the lower prices Palm brand PDAs. We strongly recommend that you purchase a USB hotsync cradle instead of a serial port hotsync cradle. The usb hotsync cradle will allow you to transfer data between your desktop and handheld at a much higher speed.
Where to purchase.
Most any large electronics, computer, or retail chains such as CompUSA, OfficeMax, Best Buy, Circuit City, Target, etc. carry Palm OS Handhelds and accessories. Many even offer no-questions-asked damaged unit replacement warranties that you may want to consider when purchasing. In addition, nearly every online retailer of electronics carries Palm OS Handhelds.
How a Palm OS Handheld works.
Palm OS Handhelds are very easy to use. The average user can become quite
adept at using the Handheld in about a half hour.
Syncing Data with your PC
 The
Palm OS Handheld connects to your PC using a cradle. The cradle allows
you to transfer data to and from your handheld with the single push of
a button.
The process of connecting your handheld to your desktop computer is called
HotSyncing.
Using your Palm OS Handheld Computer
Once you have your data transferred to your handheld computer, you can
take it with you into the field. The following diagram of a Handspring
Visor shows you several of the features found on a Palm OS Handheld:
Entering Data
There are two ways to enter data into your Palm OS Handheld. You can
write down information, just as you would in your notebook, using Grafitti,
which is a slightly modified version of handwriting (see below). You can
also access an on-screen keyboard, where you can simply tap the data in
with your stylus.
Get a good case.
Farming treats handhelds a bit rough. It's a good idea to make an investment in a good case. Some of our favorites are:
Our personal favorite. The AquaPac is a waterproof, transparent case
that you can carry around your neck. This allows you to access your
handheld and enter information without having to take it out of its
case, exposing it to the environment. Not recommended when working around heavy machinery.
 Waterproof, crushproof, and very affordable. The Otter Box 2000 is low-cost insurance for your Palm OS Handheld.
Other cases and accessories
Other resources for cases include:
Another handy accessory are Write Rights. These are clear plastic overlays for your screen. These prevent dirt, grime and scratches from damaging your screen: www.fellowes.com
Recommended software and other links
There are over 10,000 applications available for the Palm OS.
While we feel that StocKeeper Companion will probably be your favorite
one, we thought we'd make a few other suggestions to help get the most
our of your Palm OS Handheld!
Software Recommendations
These are just a few of the many great applications available. We felt that
these are 'must-haves' on every farm. All of the following are freeware applicaations:
Autobase (Freeware)
Download
Site
Keep track of your vehicles' maintenance.
HandyShopper (Freeware)
Download
Site
A highly customizable shopping list database. Never forget that item at
the hardware store again!
Diddle (Freeware)
Download
Site
Need to sketch something down? Diddle is a quick and easy sketch program.
AvantGo (Freeware)
Download Site
AvantGo is a web browser for your Palm OS Handheld. It will automatically
connect to the internet and download your favorite sites when you hotsync,
providing up-to date news every day.
Other Software Sites
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