If you are an active user of a PDA, no doubt the question "why doesn't this software allow me to do this?" has crossed your mind on more than one occasion. While there are many fantastic programs available 'off-the-shelf' that add incredible functionality to PDAs, it would be virtually impossible to write the software to take into account every users needs. For those individuals that find the common applications useful, but just a little lacking, creating customized programs may be the answer.

Of course for those professionals walking around with a PhD. in Computer Science, this doesn't sound that complicated. A few minutes writing some C, a quick compile and voila. For the rest of us though, the easier solution is using database software to build custom forms. While this may not sound a whole lot easier, it really is not much more than a drag-and-drop process using today's user-friendly tools. With a little practice and a good design, you can soon be walking confidently with the perfect data recording tool.

For Windows CE, there are a number of database platforms available that will allow you to build your forms. The most popular of these is Visual CE from Syware. We have also heard good things about Recordian from Ilium Software. As with most utility programs, the best one for you is really a matter of personal choice. Whichever feels the most comfortable and allows you to get the job done in the least amount of time with the least amount of frustration is the one to go with.

Visual CE

Syware recently released its latest version of its popular database application for Windows CE machines, Visual CE 4.0. This application has received much praise from users for its ability to build customized forms for easy data entry. Using this platform, professionals can easily create data entry forms on their PDA customized for their individual needs.

Form creation is a breeze with Visual CE. Simply pick the fields that you want to see, then drag and drop them where you want them to show up. H/PC users and P/PC users can create new forms on the desktop and then transfer them to their PDA. H/PC Pro users can even create forms directly on their PDA.

The best part of Visual CE however, is its versatility. Like desktop based database programs, user can take advantage of labels, edit boxes, note boxes, check boxes, radio buttons, tab buttons, and drop down lists. Multiple page forms are also possible, allowing the creation of very detailed records and questionnaires. This feature is great for P/PC users wanting to capture a large number of fields because they don't have to worry about trying to cram all their fields onto one screen.

For legal professionals who wish to use their PDA to track detailed information such as client data, Visual CE can be just what the doctor ordered. Simply set up a form with all the information they like to record while working with clients and then enter that data while they work. Then, with all information in the PDA, use the built-in search engine to find anything in seconds. At the end of the day, simply go to a desktop computer and use the synchronization function to synchronize the PDA with MS Access, Lotus Approach, or Visual Basic.

Visual CE is definitely one of the top database and data entry applications out there for Windows CE. Want to give it a try? Syware offers a free demo expense tracker for download. While this demo is not a complex application whatsoever, it will give you a feel for how the database interface is setup. Simply visit www.syware.com and complete the online form.

Recordian

This product is a renamed version of an pre-existing database called AutoMate, that, as it turns out, people recognized could be used for all kinds of data tracking. Recordian is less powerful than Visual CE, but the user interface is extremely simple to work with, making the set-up of customized forms a snap.

Recordina also offers a free trial so users can have a look at the product before making a purchase decision. To download the demo version, visit Ilium Software's site at www.iliumsoft.com.

If all you need is a a good package for tracking data, Recordian is a pretty good bet. However, if more comprehensive features that allow you to create complex forms and analyze and manipulate the data in your Windows CE device, Visual CE is more likely the product for you. Either way, with just a little time and effort, that perfect program you wished somebody would create could be up and running on your PDA.

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