Mobile computing refers to the ability to use the Internet and other computer-related features without having to be stationed at or plugged into a specific location. Bluetooth (a type of personal area network, or PAN) and Infrared Data Association (IRDA), which establishes communication between remote devices, are among the two types of technology that make mobile computing possible.
Some devices you can use for mobile computing include:
While business people on-the-go can benefit from the use of mobile computing devices, so too can students, those who travel frequently or anyone else who wants to stay tapped in to the online world.
Although you may be thinking that mobile computing is too high tech or unnecessary, some of the ways in which it can be useful in your everyday life include:
Getting such information can be extremely helpful when you are already on your way to a location. Having to pull over, call someone or wait may not only make you late, but it could also cost you money or unnecessarily put you in a dangerous position.
In this section, we will outline and explain some of the various devices you can use for mobile computing. Our articles will also describe the pros and cons of mobile computing so that you can effectively fit it into your life.
WiFi, short for wireless fidelity, refers to wireless local area networks (WLANs) that allow laptops and other devices to connect to the Internet. When you are using a mobile computing device, finding WiFi hotspots, locations where you can easily get online, is important to the proper functioning of that device. Some of the most common WiFi hot zones include hotels, airports and cafes.
Although WiFi is generally offered for free, some networks may charge a nominal hourly fee or a flat daily fee. Keep reading for more information on WiFi hot zones.
In general, the main cost associated with mobile computing revolves around the price tag of your mobile computing device. While PDAs can start as low as $99, you can also get a deal on a fully equipped laptop for around $1,000. Once you purchase one of these devices, the main costs of mobile computing are covered!
Although some WiFi networks may charge a small fee for connecting you to the Internet, many others are free. Read on to learn more about the costs of mobile computing.
A personal digital assistant (PDA) is a small, hand-held device that organizes and stores information, processes Word documents, connects to the Internet and has a Global Positioning System (GPS). While PDAs first came onto the electronic scene in the 1970s in the form of advanced calculators, as technology advanced over the years, PDAs have become more compact and extremely powerful devices equipped with Bluetooth capabilities.
PDAs are generally easy to use: In addition to the touch screen, PDAs also come with a stylus (a small pen-like object) that you can use to navigate through various screens. Keep reading to learn more about the unique features and benefits associated with personal digital assistants.