An alternative that I have not yet used is DataViz Mail, which comes as part of the Documents To Go Add-On Kit. The biggest benefit I would expect is the ability to open Word and Excel attachments.

I'm still undecided on a favorite Web browser, a quest that leads me to do a survey of the current state for an upcoming article. I have tried several browsers. All have their limitations, such as an inability to handle images or a failure to deal with wide formats or complex tables. Any of them can get you through in a pinch, though.

I also use AIM for Palm OS (at http://www.aim.com/get_aim/palm/latest_palm.adp) for instant messaging, but the inability to use the modem with a keyboard makes it painful for more than the necessities. It is almost easier and more convenient to use the AIM client in my mobile phone.

Finally, for those desperate times when I forgot the right file or when I need to troubleshoot issues on my home network, I use PalmVNC and Top Gun SSH, which I discussed in detail in previous articles (at http://www.palmpowerenterprise.com/issues/issue200204/palmvnc001.html and http://www.palmpowerenterprise.com/issues/issue200206/sshclient001.html, respectively).

That human touch
To round things out, I also keep pictures of my family in MGI Software's PhotoSuite, which came with my Palm m505, for those sweet reminders. It's a nice touch when traveling or working long hours to easily remember what is important to you.

Although I try to avoid games, I do play Astraware's Bejeweled (at http://www.astraware.com/palm/bejeweled/) and Astro Defence (at http://www.astraware.com/palm/astro/). If you ever thought that you would never see addictive, arcade-style games done well on your PDA, you need to check these out. After all, you never know when you'll be stuck in an airport or waiting interminably for a meeting.

Conclusion
There are other things relevant to consulting that I keep on my PDA, but the ones discussed above are the essential tool kit. You will definitely need an 8 MB or larger handheld to store it all and expansion cards to really open it up. It will pay for itself in time-savings and convenience, and eventually it will save you in a tight spot.

Gil Gordon heads Gil Gordon Associates at http://www.gilgordon.com in Monmouth Junction, NJ. Since 1982, he has specialized in implementing telecommuting and virtual-office programs for employers and in helping vendors develop products and services for that marketplace. His latest book, TURN IT OFF, at http://www.turnitoff.com, has been receiving rave reviews from the business community.