Getting the Most Out of My Pocket PC at Work, Traveling, and at Home

Pocket PC enthusiast uses her Genio e550G at work, at home, and on the road

I have the best job in the world! Working here at Pocket PC magazine not only exposes me to the latest and greatest Pocket PC software and accessories, it gives me the opportunity to use my Toshiba Genio e550G in many creative ways at work, traveling, and at home.

The three things I do with a new Pocket PC

There are three things I always do when I get a new Pocket PC:

  1. Install a screen protector. This keeps the screen looking new and free from scratches. Small amounts of dust and dirt that accumulate on the screen can get underneath the stylus and will be dragged while writing and scratch the screen. I use a WriteShield (http://pocketpctechs.com/ws.asp) screen protector because of its long life, smooth surface, and because it's easy to apply to the screen.
  2. Install a Task Manager program. Many, but not all, Pocket PCs come with a built-in task manager, which lets you switch between programs that are running or close running programs that you don't need to keep open. I prefer a freeware program called PocketNav (www.scottandmichelle.net/scott/cestuff.html). It places a small yellow "lightning bolt" icon in the upper-right corner of the screen to the right of the time display. Tapping the icon opens the menu and pressing the "X" closes individual programs or "Close All" closes all running programs. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a favorite of mine.
  3. PocketNav adds a task manager to any Pocket PC.

  4. Install Launcher. This program is from Scott's CE Applications (www.scottandmichelle.net/scott/cestuff.html). It's a plug-in that places shortcut icons on the Today screen. I can open programs directly from my Today screen, saving me time and taps from having to locate them in my Programs menu.