Mobile Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

See the questions and answers below for more information about PDAs, or ask MyLibarian if you have a question of your own. The questions are divided into three sections:

Acquiring a PDA
- What's a PDA?
- Can I borrow a PDA from the library?
- What if I decide to purchase a PDA?
Configuring Your PDA
- How do I set up the wireless so that it works in the Library?
Using Your PDA
- Where on the JHMI campus is there wireless access to library resources?
- Is there somewhere in the Welch Medical Library where I can sync my PDA?
- Is there a place in the library where I can download programs and files and then transfer them to my PDA?
- What about installing ePocrates/InfoRetriever/etc. on my PDA? Can I do that here in the Library?
- How do I download e-reserve materials to my PDA?
- What PDA resources are available to the JHMI community?
- How do I get help and troubleshoot problems on my PDA?

Acquiring a PDA

What's a PDA?
PDAs (personal digital assistants) are small computers which run stripped down versions of regular operating systems. The term "personal digital assistant" refers to the primary functions of the first devices - keeping a calendar, personal contact information (phone, email, etc.), notes and to do list with you at all times.

Typically a user enters most of the information into software which resides on a desktop computer (Windows or Mac) and then uses a cradle or infrared port to synchronize the PDA with the software on their desktop computer. There are also "pocket" versions of some applications (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Internet Explorer, etc.) which can be synchronized with the full blown versions available for desktop computers.

PDAs are valuable tools in clinical, teaching, and research settings because they can provide information at the point of need, including drug databases, calculators, medical reference, patient care, and patient tracking, and they are small enough to fit into the pocket of a lab coat.

Can I borrow a PDA from the library?
No. The Welch Medical Library does not loan PDAs.

What if I decide to purchase a PDA?
Check the Hopkins Mobile Computing Program for purchasing options for Hopkins faculty, staff, employees and students. You may first want to see what email options (Blackberry, Treo/Pocket PC) and synchronization options are available to Hopkins PDA users and review the Personal Digital Assistant Standards (PDF) for the Johns Hopkins Institutions.

A good source for finding a PDA that might best meet your needs is My Product Advisor, a free and unbiased service that provides a customized, ranked short list of products based on your individual preferences, including usage, price, brand, and operating system.

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Configuring your PDA

I just bought a wireless PDA. How do I set up the wireless so that it works in the Library?
The library's Wireless Support Service promotes and supports the use of a wireless environment in the Welch Library (including the second and third floors of the Welch Building), all book stacks areas, the Greenhouse, the Office of Academic Computing Lab, School of Nursing Library and Meyer Library.

If library users would like to request this wireless service, they can fill out this form. After submitting this form, users will be contacted by ATIS staff via e-mail to make an appointment for the installation. The cost of installation is $50 (free for students) plus $95.00 for a wireless card.

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Using your PDA

Where on the JHMI campus is there wireless access to library resources?
Wireless Access points for the JHMI wireless network are listed on the Hopkins Information Technology website. go »

Is there somewhere in the Welch Medical Library where I can sync my PDA?
No. You aren't able to sync your information at the library's computers.

Is there a place in the library where I can download programs and files and then transfer them to my PDA?
No, but the Office of Academic Computing in PCTB has infrared devices that students can use to download to Palm OS 3.3 or higher handhelds.

What about installing ePocrates/InfoRetriever/etc. on my PDA? Can I do that here in the Library?
No. In general, it is best to install software programs like these on your computer where you sync your device.

Can I download e-reserve materials to my PDA?
Yes, you may download e-reserves to your PDA, but, depending on the type of file (e.g., *.doc, *.xls, *.pdf), you may need a third party application to open it.

What PDA resources are available to the JHMI community?
Check the PDA Health Sciences Resources page and look for listings with "Hopkins license" marked next to them.

How do I get help troubleshooting problems on my PDA?
The Welch Medical Library currently does not have the resources to provide support for installation or operation of PDA software or hardware. Check sites for PDA support including your PDA manufacturer's web site, Palm OS Support, PalmGear, and/or software sites (e.g., for ePocrates help see the ePocrates web site).

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