MegaWicki
MegaWicki allows you to create Web-like links between Palm OS documents so that you can jump from one to another by just tapping on a link.

MacroPlay
MacroPlay (at http://www.palmgear.com/software/showsoftware.cfm?prodID=29076) is a macro package for Palm handhelds. It allows you to automate operations you frequently perform and to start them with a single tap on your screen.

How can I use hacks?
In order to use hacks on your Palm handheld, you'll first need a hack manager. Below are three of the most commonly used hack managers.

HackMaster
The granddaddy of all hack managers, HackMaster (at http://www.daggerware.com/hackmstr.htm) allows you to enable and disable hacks, as well as enter each hack's control panel, allowing you to configure each according to your needs. It will also automatically prompt you to re-enable them all if your Palm handheld undergoes a "reset" condition.

TealMaster
Compared with HackMaster, TealMaster (at http://www.tealpoint.com/softmstr.htm) offers enhanced stability, system compatibility, exclusive configuration, and diagnostic and activation features. Unique features include hack priorities, anti-delete protection, timed automatic activation after reset, and multiple activation profiles. Advanced features include system analysis tools and automatic activation and deactivation of hacks when switching applications.

X-Master
X-Master (the hack manager that I use available at http://linkesoft.com/english/xmaster) offers support for switching "sets" of active extensions and a few other more technical features. I've found it to be a very solid and completely reliable hack manager, even though it's freeware.

Are hacks reliable?
They are no less reliable than any other third-party software that you might install on your Palm handheld. If they're well written, they won't cause problems. Again, this goes for any program you many install on your Palm handheld, not just hacks.

Do I need to run hacks?
First of all, the majority of Palm handheld owners don't use any third-party programs on their devices. However, there are well over 300 hack programs available today. Some of them may offer functionality you find valuable. Some can also be quite complicated to use. It really comes down to personal preference. I've personally found the three hacks I run on my Palm handheld to be invaluable.

Conclusion
Hacks can provide Palm handhelds with completely new capabilities. They do so by extending the functionality of the core Palm operating system. In order to use them, you'll need to first install a hack Manager on your handheld. Doing so opens your device up to completely new possibilities. Upcoming articles will discuss some hacks available for your Palm handheld and just what advantages they can provide to you as an enterprise Palm handheld user.

Kathy Burns has been writing for over 15 years and has columns in a number of publications. Questions, comments and suggestions on her handsizing column are welcome and can be directed to PPENT@palmpilotfiles.com. In addition to writing, Kathy runs a large Palm OS-related Web site. You can browse the site at http://www.palmpilotfiles.com or view additional articles by Kathy at http://www.sasezpublications.com.