A PocketPC’s capabilities expanded dramatically with the right accessories. From power solutions to connectivity options, these add-ons transformed basic PDAs into powerful mobile computing platforms.
Power Solutions
Extended Batteries
The eternal PDA challenge—battery life—had solutions:
| Type | Benefit | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Extended pack | 2-3x capacity | Adds bulk |
| Slim pack | Pocketable | Less capacity |
| External pack | Huge capacity | Separate unit |
For VGA devices with power-hungry displays, extended batteries were essential.
Charging Solutions
Multiple charging options existed:
- Desktop cradle: Primary charging, sync
- Travel charger: Compact, portable
- Car charger: Vehicle power
- USB charging: Computer-powered
Expansion Cards
CompactFlash Accessories
CF slots accepted diverse peripherals:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Storage | Microdrives (4GB+) |
| Networking | WiFi cards |
| GPS | Navigation receivers |
| Camera | Image capture |
| Modem | Dial-up connectivity |
SD/SDIO Peripherals
SD slots offered additional options:
- WiFi (SDIO)
- Bluetooth (SDIO)
- Storage cards
- GPS receivers
Connectivity
WiFi Cards
Before built-in WiFi, CF cards provided connectivity:
| Brand | Features |
|---|---|
| SanDisk Connect | Popular, reliable |
| Socket | Enterprise-focused |
| Pretec | Budget option |
| D-Link | Various speeds |
Toshiba’s e-series pioneered integrated WiFi.
Bluetooth Adapters
Bluetooth connectivity enabled:
- Wireless sync
- Phone DUN (dial-up networking)
- Headset audio
- Keyboard connection
Input Devices
Portable Keyboards
Full typing capability through:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Folding | Compact | Complex mechanism |
| Thumb board | Always attached | Small keys |
| Bluetooth | No cable | Battery needed |
| IR | Wireless | Line-of-sight |
The HP Jornada 720 solved this with integrated keyboard.
Styluses
Beyond basic included stylus:
- Extended reach: Longer models
- Pen combo: Ink + stylus
- Reset tool: Built-in pin
- Ergonomic: Comfortable grip
Cases and Protection
Case Types
| Style | Protection | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|
| Flip case | Screen | Quick access |
| Book case | Full | Moderate |
| Belt holster | Good | Easy draw |
| Aluminum | Maximum | Screen window |
| Sleeve | Basic | None |
Screen Protection
Essential for touch devices:
- Screen protectors
- Tempered glass (rare)
- Cleaning kits
Car Mounting
For GPS navigation and mobile use:
Mount Types
- Windshield suction: Common, adjustable
- Vent clip: No marks, limited angles
- Dashboard: Permanent, stable
- Bean bag: Non-permanent, versatile
Car Kits
Complete solutions included:
- Mount
- Power adapter
- Audio output
- Antenna connection
Audio Accessories
Headphones and Speakers
Audio options included:
| Type | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Wired headphones | Personal listening |
| Bluetooth headset | Hands-free calls |
| Portable speakers | Group audio |
| FM transmitter | Car stereo |
Voice Recording
Dictation accessories:
- External microphones
- Voice recorder cradles
- Transcription software
Sync and Desktop Integration
Cradles
Desktop cradles provided:
- Convenient charging
- ActiveSync connection
- Upright display
- Spare battery charging
Cable Options
- USB sync cable
- Serial sync (legacy)
- Ethernet cradle
- Charge-only cable
Storage Solutions
Memory Cards
| Type | Capacity Range (2005) |
|---|---|
| SD | 128 MB - 4 GB |
| CF | 256 MB - 8 GB |
| Microdrive | 1 GB - 6 GB |
Backup Solutions
- Desktop backup via ActiveSync
- Card backup utilities
- Memory card swap
Travel Accessories
Essential Travel Kit
PocketPC Travel Kit:
├── Device
├── Travel charger
├── USB sync cable
├── Extra stylus
├── Storage card(s)
├── Keyboard (optional)
├── Headphones
├── Screen cleaner
└── Carrying case
International Considerations
- Universal power adapters
- Voltage converters (rarely needed for chargers)
- Spare batteries
Enterprise Accessories
Healthcare Specific
- Antimicrobial cases
- Cleaning-friendly protection
- Barcode sleds
- Badge holders
Enterprise Deployment
- Charging stations (multi-device)
- Inventory management
- Asset tracking tags
- Rugged cases
Where to Find Accessories Today
For collectors, accessories remain available:
- eBay listings
- Amazon third-party
- Specialized retro computing stores
- Device-specific forums