Mobile Computing is a generic term describing your ability to use technology to wirelessly connect to and use centrally located information and/or application software through the application of small, portable, and wireless computing and communication devices. This includes devices like laptops with wireless LAN technology, mobile phones, wearable computers and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) with Bluetooth or IRDA interfaces, and USB flash drives.

History of mobile devices

---

Originally, electronic devices such as radio transmitters, wireless communications systems, and the like, were base stations, operated at fixed locations, typically with large antenna towers. Widespread use of automobiles gave rise to smaller devices operating at 6 volts. In the 1950s, the transition to 12 volt automotive electrical systems gave rise to a large number of 12 volt devices, such as two-way radios, referred to as mobile rigs. A large industry, with companies such as Motorola (Motor-ola) sprung up to support the growing need for mobile devices, such as taxicab radios, police radios, and other 12 volt underdash equipment, as well as trunk mount systems. Today there are a wide variety of mobile computing platforms, including dash-mount VGA displays, and computers that can provide GPS and other navigation functions for automobile users.

Base-Mobile-Portable hierarchy

---

In ham radio, there is a base-mobile-portable hierarchy, as follows:

• Base station: fixed location, incorporated into a building or other architecture;
• Mobile: attached to or in a vehicle or used by a mobileer;
• Portable: worn or carried. (The word "portable" derives from French "porter" = "to wear", but also includes handheld devices such as handie-talkies, walkie talkies, handheld computers, as well as wearable computers).

More on [ Mobile computing ]

Whats New at SmartphoneMag.com

Jim Karpen's Web Guide: Phone as Internet Access Point, Freeware, Trends
This week I want to highlight Internet Access Sharing, which lets you connect your laptop to the Internet via your phone's data connection. Also, we'll look at some free Web services and freeware, as well as note some interesting trends.
Jim Karpen's Hot Web Site of the Week: WindowsMobileNow.com
WindowsMobileNow.com is a new site from eXpansys that's dedicated to the Windows Mobile devices, accessories, applications, and resources. These resources include helpful information on how to configure a Windows Mobile device to sync e-mail, how to browse the Web, how to play music and videos, and how to connect a Bluetooth headset.
Featured Article: My 5 Favorite Accessories
They protect my Windows Mobile device, add capability, and make using it easier and more enjoyable.
Featured Review: HP iPAQ 210 Enterprise Handheld
Powerhouse WM 6 Classic PDA sports a 4-inch VGA display, fast processor, and plenty of memory.
News: Microsoft launches Windows Mobile site for salespeople
Microsoft has launched a new website devoted to Windows Mobile, and targeting "anyone who sells mobile phones or works in the mobile industry." Windows Mobile Connection features background information on the operating system, mobile industry news, Microsoft press releases, and discussion forums, the company says."
Tip of the Week: Set X Button to close down programs completely
The X button in the upper right corner of a touch screen display does not really shut down the current program.

Subscribe to Mobile_Computing RSS feed

Palm Advances Mobile Computing