PDA & Smartphone Guides Books

How to Do Everything with Windows Mobile (How to Do Everything)

Frank McPherson

Amazon Price: $16.49 List Price: $24.99 Usually ships in 24 hours By: McGraw-Hill Osborne Media Amazon Marketplace: 56 new & used starting at $4.59

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Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Computer Science -> Software Engineering -> Information Systems
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Hardware -> Handheld & Mobile Devices
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Microsoft -> Mobile & Handheld Computing

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 3.0 of 5

I regret not having bought it sooner! 5 out of 5 stars.
25 of 27 people found this review helpful.

If you have a mobile computer (for example, a PocketPC) that runs on a Windows platform, you probably found the instruction manual grossly inadequate. I know I did. I also found some basic, expected functionality missing from my PocketPC and immediately set about finding third-party applications to resolve those deficiencies. Along the way, I found out just how frustrating it is to set up or even use a mobile computer without something other than just the manual to serve as an information source.

What a jewel I found in this book on Windows Mobile! Most computer-related books are either way too simple to be of any use, or they are written for people who don't need a manual in the first place. This one is targeted squarely at the typical user.

I have a real problem with "newbie" books that assume you can't read a display menu. This book doesn't start at that point. It starts with the assumption you don't live under a rock and aren't too lazy to click a few things to see what they do. It also doesn't assume you have an advanced degree in computer programming. My first reaction when reading this was, "Pinch me--I must be dreaming!" Definitely a great value for every penny spent and definitely worth the time spent reading it.

The book is arranged logically, with five major parts. Part One focuses on the "get started" issues. It starts off by explaining the Windows Mobile platform. It then provides some basics about the devices that run on Windows Mobile, so you're not lost in later sections. After this, it explains various settings--what they mean and what you can do with them. It ends by addressing specifics with Smartphones.

Part II helps you master using your laptop or desktop PC with your Windows Mobile device. I found this extraordinarily helpful, because the manual for my device left me to bumble and stumble in needless pain and misery. But now, I am very comfortable using my laptop to manage my Pocket PC. If you are wondering what the heck "manage" means in this context, you need to read this book!

One operation I don't do is synchronization--I find that far too scary. What if it wipes out the files on the computer? The first time I tried this process, it created all kinds of problems and I had to restore my computer's calendar and e-mail from a backup. To prevent a disaster, I now use my laptop rather than my desktop to do things on my Pocket PC.

A weakness in the book is it doesn't explain how to selectively synchronize. It gives a hint, though--setting up a special mail profile for this may solve the problem of unwanted "updates." But it doesn't address this problem directly. The synchronization function needs to be fixed, so that a person can use it without the risk of losing data. A well-explained workaround would have been nice.

Part III addresses many issues I don't care about and that don't affect people who have broadband service with their Pocket PC. If you have to use a dialup, though, this information is indispensable.

Part IV talks mostly about various applications that strike me as laptop or desktop stuff. For example, running spreadsheets and databases on your Pocket PC. Maybe my view is just too narrow. To me, the small screen and tiny keyboard mean you pretty much stick to calling, e-mailing, and doing minor text work. In an age where 21-inch CRTs and 17-inch LCDs dominate desktops, it seems ridiculous to try to cram those same applications into a screen that is 1.75 x 2.75 inches. If you can't have a laptop with you, then maybe the actual work can wait. It may seem unbelievable, but there was a time when people weren't expected to respond to a call 24 hrs a day and were expected to go back to the office to update a file.

Throughout the book, there are resource recommendations with accurate URLs provided. I followed up on many of these and found some excellent applications at reasonable prices.

If you are looking at any kind of computer/phone combo, get this book first. Yes, that applies to thinking about a Blackberry or PalmPilot, too. I was originally going to buy a Blackberry, but my product research led me to select a PocketPC instead. I have never regretted that choice. I bought this book several months after buying my device (I didn't know there was such a book, until then). My only regret is that I didn't buy it sooner.

Editorial Review:

Get the most out of your Pocket PC, Pocket PC Phone, or Smartphone using the latest Windows Mobile software and this easy-to-follow guide. Learn fast and simple ways to manage all types of information-from everyday essentials such as scheduling appointments and storing addresses to balancing your checkbook and reading email-no matter where you go. Written in a step-by-step format, How to Do Everything with Windows Mobile shows you how to share data with other wireless devices, play music, watch videos, send messages, write letters, and much more. Whether your needs are business or pleasure, this handy guide will have you fully utilizing all of the expanded features and capabilities of your Windows Mobile device.

Nokia Smartphone Hacks: Tips & Tools for Your Smallest Computer (Hacks)

Michael Yuan

Amazon Price: $19.46 List Price: $24.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: O'Reilly Media, Inc. Amazon Marketplace: 41 new & used starting at $1.41

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Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Hardware -> Handheld & Mobile Devices
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Hardware -> PCs
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Hardware -> Peripherals

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 7 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

Nokia's smartphones pack a powerful computer into a very small space. Unlike your desktop or laptop, your smallest computer can be connected to the Internet all the time, and can interact with the world around it through its camera, voice recognition, and its traditional phone keypad. Nokia smartphones combine these features with impressive storage options and a host of networking protocols that make this smallest computer the only thing a road warrior truly needs.

If you're still cracking open your laptop or pining for your desktop while you're on the road, you haven't begun to unlock your Nokia's full potential. Nokia Smartphone Hacks is dedicated to tricking out your smartphone and finding all the capabilities lurking under the surface. Learn how to:

• Unlock your phone so that you can use it with any carrier
• Avoid and recover from malicious mobile software
• Watch DVD movies on the phone
• Use the phone as a remote control
• Use the phone as a data modem for your notebook
• Check your email and browse the web
• Post to your weblog from your phone
• Record phone conversations
• Choose mobile service plans
• Transfer files between the phone and your computer

Whether you want to use your smartphone as your lifeline while you're on the road, or you're just looking for a way to make the most of the time you spend waiting in lines, you'll find all the user-friendly tips, tools, and tricks you need to become massively productive with your Nokia smartphone. With Nokia Smartphone Hacks, you'll unleash the full power of that computer that's sitting in your pocket, purse, or backpack.

101 Cool Smartphone Techniques : Covers Series 60 Phones from Nokia, Samsung, Siemens, Panasonic, Sendo, and more!

Dean Andrews

Amazon Price: $22.49 List Price: $24.99 Usually ships in 2 to 4 weeks By: Wiley Amazon Marketplace: 38 new & used starting at $1.49

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Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Business & Culture -> Culture
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Hardware -> Handheld & Mobile Devices
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Mobile & Wireless Computing -> PDA & Smartphone Guides

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

Here’s how to get as smart as your phone

Your Series 60 smartphone is one really cool gadget. Here’s how to take advantage of 101 reasons why they call it “smart.”

This is no boring user’s manual, but the key that unlocks tricks you never guessed your phone could do. Find out how to blacklist unwanted calls, set your camera features on “fast draw” so you never miss a shot, create your own ringtones, send video, encrypt data on your phone, install and remove software, and so much more.

• Get expert advice on buying a smartphone, configuring it, and transferring data from your old phone
• Send automatic text message responses to callers
• Replace your phone’s wallpaper with your own images
• Create an e-book you can read on your phone
• Quickly locate files and multimedia
• Super-size your caller ID
• Use shortcuts to fast-forward, rewind, or play back vodeo
• Connect to your PC via Bluetooth or infrared technology
• Lock your memory card and back up data stored there or in your phone memory
• Open Zip files on your phone

How Smart Phones Work - The Origins of Symbian and the New Smartphone Industry

Symbian

By: John Wiley and Sons Ltd Amazon Marketplace: 4 new & used starting at $9.91

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Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Programming -> APIs & Operating Environments -> EPOC-Symbian
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Mobile & Wireless Computing -> PDA & Smartphone Guides

How to Do Everything with Your Smartphone, Windows Mobile Edition (How to Do Everything)

Jason R. Rich

List Price: $24.99 By: McGraw-Hill Osborne Media Amazon Marketplace: 21 new & used starting at $1.46

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Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Hardware -> Handheld & Mobile Devices
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Microsoft -> Operating Systems -> Windows - General
Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Microsoft -> Operating Systems -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

Useful Info for Smartphone Users 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 3 people found this review helpful.

A collection of useful information for users - new and old - of Microsoft Windows Mobile Smartphones. The format makes the book very easy to either read or to use as a reference, with lots of pictures, tips, and notes. The book is well organized, and full of real-world examples and advice. It covers both the included basics, and additional software and accessories. As someone who develops and supports Smartphone software, I know how much a book like this is needed by the Smartphone community!

Editorial Review:

Kick off your shoes and let How to Do Everything with Smartphone show you the essentials of operation, plus enough Windows mobile add-ons and customization tricks to make you want to 86 your other communications devices. Combine cutting edge PDA technology with wireless communication and use scheduling software, finance and text tools, wireless Web, database management software, and much more. So, c’mon, chief, get the book and get smart! You’ll never look at a phone booth the same way again.

Marketing at the drive-up: how do you promote your products and services to customers who prefer the drive-up window to the branch lobby? Mobile and encased ... An article from: Bank Marketing

Mike Dunphy

Amazon Price: $5.95 List Price: $5.95 Available for download now By: Bank Marketing Assn.

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Subjects -> Business & Investing -> Management & Leadership -> Management
Subjects -> Business & Investing -> General
Subjects -> Business & Investing -> General AAS

Editorial Review:

This digital document is an article from Bank Marketing, published by Bank Marketing Assn. on May 1, 2004. The length of the article is 1845 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Marketing at the drive-up: how do you promote your products and services to customers who prefer the drive-up window to the branch lobby? Mobile and encased in vehicles, they are a challenge both in terms of communication and interaction. Yet, they are too numerous to ignore.(branches)
Author: Mike Dunphy
Publication: Bank Marketing (Magazine/Journal)
Date: May 1, 2004
Publisher: Bank Marketing Assn.
Volume: 36 Issue: 4 Page: 26(6)

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Get a grip on your mobile data: the freedom PDAs offer make them difficult to manage. Find out how to manage and secure data exchange, even when you're ... ): An article from: Mobile Business Advisor

Louise Davey, Martin Lauzon

Amazon Price: $5.95 List Price: $5.95 Available for download now By: The Gale Group

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Subjects -> Computers & Internet -> Mobile & Wireless Computing -> PDA & Smartphone Guides

Editorial Review:

This digital document is an article from Mobile Business Advisor, published by Advisor Publications, Inc. on November 1, 2002. The length of the article is 1465 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Get a grip on your mobile data: the freedom PDAs offer make them difficult to manage. Find out how to manage and secure data exchange, even when you're dealing with different kinds of devices.(Administration )(mobile device middleware and management )
Author: Louise Davey
Publication: Mobile Business Advisor (Magazine/Journal)
Date: November 1, 2002
Publisher: Advisor Publications, Inc.
Volume: 20 Issue: 8 Page: 38(2)

Distributed by Thomson Gale