PDA is the abbreviation of Personal Digital Assistant, which literally means "personal digital assistant".

This handheld device integrates many functions such as computing, telephone, fax and network. It can not only be used to manage personal information (such as address book, plans, etc.), but more importantly, it can surf the Internet, send and receive Email, send faxes, and even be used as a mobile phone. More importantly, these functions can be realized wirelessly. Of course, not any PDA has all the above functions; Even if it is available, it may not be realized due to the lack of corresponding services. However, it can be predicted that the development trend of PDA is the integration of computing, communication, network, storage, entertainment, e-commerce and other functions.

generally, PDA is not equipped with a keyboard, but uses handwriting input or voice input. The operating systems used by PDA mainly include Palm OS, Windows CE and EPOC. The origin of PDA can be traced back to Newton Message Pad introduced by Apple in 1993. Soon after, some manufacturers launched similar products. At present, the price of PDA is still on the high side, but experts believe that it will eventually enter the "homes of ordinary people" and become a real "personal digital assistant". The above is a generalized PDA.

at present, there is a narrow understanding of PDA. PDA in a narrow sense can be called electronic organizer, and its function is relatively simple, mainly managing personal information, such as address book, notes and memos, schedule, notes, calculator, recording and dictionary. Moreover, these functions are all solidified, and new functions cannot be added according to the requirements of users. PDA in a broad sense mainly refers to palmtop computers, and of course it also includes other small digital devices with similar functions. The word PDA also has different interpretations. In a narrow sense, the PDA does not have a keyboard, and uses handwriting input, voice input or soft keyboard input. Pocket computers in a broad sense include both those without keyboards and those with keyboards. However, in the China market, almost all PDA's don't have keyboards.

Classification of PDA:

In fact, PDA should be subdivided into four categories: electronic dictionary, PDA, handheld computer equipment and personal communication assistant. The latter two have gradually merged together due to the development of technology and market.