The Palmtop Computer

The palmtop computer is a computer with the functionality of a desktop PC, yet is small enough to fit in your pocket or hand. It is the smallest and lightest of portable computers, and often runs on two AA batteries. The palmtop is often the most difficult to describe as well, for no two are quite alike, and they should not be confused with calculators or organizers with business functions (such as a memo pad, address book, or scheduler). A palmtop computer has its own operating system plus separate, often selectable, application software programs; calculators and organizers do not. Here are two palmtops.

The Poqet PC is a PC-compatible with no moving parts; its software comes in integrated circuit chips that plug in. It comes with a scheduler, word processing, a calculator, an address book, and a communications program. Additional programs, such as Lotus 1-2-3, are available on RAM cards, integrated circuits on credit card – like cards that slip into the machine. A nice feature is the Poqet's ability to "remember" where you stopped your work when you turn the power off, and return you to the same place.

The Hewlett-Packard HP 95LX is an 11-ounce PC-compatible computer with a phone book, appointment scheduler, memo writer, and other features. Most notably, however, it comes with the Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet built in, making it an ideal computer for the accountant or auditor on the go. It performs all the 1-2-3 functions (including graphics, database, and macros) andcan be connected to standard personal computer printers. It can communicate over phone lines with other computers. But more interestingly, it can also exchange data with another HP 95LX, while they are sitting side by side, viainfrared beam. The palmtop spreadsheet was so impressive that it was featured on the "NBC Nightly News."