Active Matrix Display

An LCD technology used in flat panel computer displays; it produces a brighter and sharper display with a broader viewing angle than passive matrix screens. Active matrix technology uses a thin film transistor at each pixel and is often designated as a "TFT screen."

Addressbook

One of the most popular native applications on the Palm OS(r) device.

Application

A program, such as a word processor or a spreadsheet, that performs one of the important tasks for which a desktop or handheld computer is used. This term is sometimes use in place of or in conjunction with "software."

Backlight(ing)

Refers to an optional function in which the handheld display glows from behind for easier reading in the dark. This feature was first featured in Palm(r)

devices and is now found in most devices across all platforms.

BlackBerry(tm)

Handheld device developed by RIM(r) which focuses on wireless email communications, but can also run other applications.Book Cards - Because of the memory required to store a full-length book, they come on cards. You can plug a card in and read the book from it.

Bluetooth -  a short range wireless communication standard.

Book Cards - Because of the memory required to store a full-length book, they come on cards. You can plug a card in and read the book from it.

CF – Compact Flash – an expansion slot for memory or other expansion cards such as ebooks or games.

Commercial Software

Software that must be purchased before use. There is no "testing" period available before the customer must spend money for the product.

Connected Organizer

How Palm, Inc refers to its line of Palm(tm) handheld computers.

Cradle - The device that the PDA sits in while it is syncing

Datebook

A popular native application on Palm OS(r) devices.

Digitizer

On Palm OS(r) devices, the digitizer calibrates the display's sensitivity to the tip of the stylus for accurate pointing and writing.

Doc

Document. Usually referred to when discussing electronic documents. See also E-text.

Doc Reader

A computer application designed to read Doc files. See Doc.

DragonBall processor

Computer processor manufactured by Motorola on which Palm OS(r) devices run.

E-commerce

Electronic Commerce. Selling and purchasing of products through an electronic service, such as the Internet.

EPOC

The operating system of the Symbian platform, which works best with low-power, compact machines and long-running applications. It was developed and licensed by Symbian. See Symbian.

E-text