NCJ Number
203944
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2003 Pages: 42-45
Date Published
February 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article provides information on handheld computers and police software for use by law enforcement.
Abstract
Computers used by police officers in the field have improved considerably since they were first introduced. Nowadays, Personal Digital Assistant’s (PDA’s) have many benefits to the work-a-day officer thanks to use of improved law enforcement software. This article describes what to look for when purchasing a PDA: what type of operating system to use and which hardware features will be needed. Currently there are two operating systems available, Palm OS and Windows CE, each with its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. After selecting an operating system, the next step is to determine the necessary hardware features, including memory, processor speed, and monitor size and quality. The best way to choose the necessary features is to match them to the applications that will be run on the system. Once this has been decided, the next step is to purchase the software. The article describes the two most popular law enforcement software applications for handheld computers: Aether Systems’ PocketBlue and TriTech Software’s Voyager. Both applications are solid patrol tools that can enhance public and officer safety and make it easier for officers to do their job. In addition, both applications can be used on any of the handheld hardware platforms currently available. The article also notes that there are a number of other very good software providers out there. A list of companies providing hardware and software is included at the end of the article.