

A guide to

Essential Mobile Technology for Real Estate

and Empowered Careers

by Michael Antoniak

Revised second edition

originally published as Essential Technology for Mobile Professionals

Smashwords Edition

Revised edition © 2012

original © 2010 Michael Antoniak, Dowelltown, TN

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

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Contents:

The Mobile Convergence

Introduction

Smartphones

Tablets and Apps

Mobile Phones

Mobile Computing

Digital Cameras

GPS Navigation

Mobile Data

Productivity Software

Contact Management/CRM

Unified Messaging

Security

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The Mobile Convergence:

Pathway to New Efficiencies, and Opportunity

The Mobile Office, long promised, discussed and speculated on, has arrived.

It's not any one development, but the combination of converging technologies in hardware, software and support services which finally realize the promise of anywhere/anytime productivity.

Early adopters might scoff at suggestions any of this is new.

For the masses —anyone in any career which has you spend part of your day beyond the walls of a physical office— this convergence marks a real turn in the professional path, new options and opportunities.

At essence, cloud computing, and the migration there, may be the critical development ushering in the truly mobile era. It's a concept evolving ever since we've been able to use web-based solutions for tasks that once required local presence, and software physically installed on hardware. Web mail, Quicken Online, Google Docs, Drop Box, even social networking sites like Facebook or LinkedIn are all examples of working, communicating in the cloud.

This transition to the cloud carries real significance when accessed through the latest mobile hardware and the supporting mobile broadband networks. With a smartphone, tablet or laptop, your office travels with you. The tools, data and resources your job requires are always within reach, in one compact device if that's your preference. You always have the latest version of programs, with all the latest features. As you update or create new files, they can be safely stored and backed up online automatically, freeing you of one more responsibility.

For today's professional, this brings new choices in when and where you work, who you collaborate with and serve, and how you pursue your career.

Conference or collaborate with clients and colleagues around the globe. Work off-hours or around the clock, when you choose. Reach into the cloud for whatever the task requires, as you need it. All of it translates into time savings and efficiencies which boost productivity and improve service.

Every advance can be disruptive, as old ways yield to the new. It depends on whether you resist inevitable change, or welcome and embrace it. Whatever your career, whatever business you're in, some combination of the solutions covered in this ebook can benefit you and your professional aspirations.

But you can become slave to these tools, if you allow them to erase the bounds between personal and professional life. If that's a concern, only you can set the limits, occasionally unplug the network connection, and set hours when you're not at work, physically or psychologically..

By definition, convergence is where multiple paths come together, a meeting point. The road from here promises opportunity and success empowered by mobile technology.

Wherever you are in your career, it's pointing to your future.

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Mobile Essentials

An Introduction

If you're that tech-savvy professional who always needs to know and have the latest gadgets, this book isn't for you.

There's no way I can pretend, ebook or ink on paper, to deliver up-to- the minute information on the latest advances, the newest products to market in a book.

For that, we have the Internet, and all the resources there. Technology just moves too fast.

Rather, this book is written for those who need a good grounding in the many tools and technologies which can empower and liberate them as professionals. It's the direct outgrowth of my experience, covering consumer electronics, and all that entails, starting in 1982.

Since the early 1990s I've been a regular contributor to the publications of the National Association of Realtors. Real estate professionals are a highly mobile group, spending most of their time out of the office, meeting with buyers and sellers of property. I started just before this industry, like so many others, was transformed by the Internet; when notebooks were just beginning to deliver on the promise of portable computing, before hot spots and Bluetooth. Photography meant film, printing and processing. A cell phone was for calls, only. When you needed directions, you unfolded a map or opened your atlas.

All of that's changed. Whatever your field, today's mobile professionals can choose from a variety tools and technologies to make better use of your time, increase productivity and improve customer service. That said, if real estate reflects other mobile professions, many of these same tools are underutilized by the very people they were developed to benefit.

One paradox I've repeatedly encountered is the slow pace at which many professionals embrace technology which could advance their careers. There's always those early adopters who thrive at the leading, bleeding edge, with the means and mien to continually master the new. The majority, though, would rather focus their time on the business they're in than spend hours or days learning how to use tools which can seem intimidating. As a result, many are content to to do things they way they always have, rather than investigate and master what's new.

What's changed, though, is the same tools some have chosen to ignore or overlook now represent new standards, in every trade. One can embrace them, or start contemplating other careers. Throughout the year I receive queries from readers of the articles I've done seeking advice on what to buy, what to look for in a computer or camera, smartphone or software. Some come from successful pros looking to upgrade, or who have been able to postpone their investment in technology. Others, come from those just moving into their respective career, eager for a quick study on what they need, what to get, and how to use it.

The hope with this ebook—my first— is to discuss the essential tools most mobile professionals can expect to use, with enough insight on function, features and value to help you make an informed purchase decision. Some will require every solution outlined in the chapters that follow. Others can cherry pick, mix and match a selection of these tools only as needed.

Start slow with one or two solutions then assume more tools as your confidence and capability grows. Or, take it all on once and hit the ground running. There is no right way to embrace technology, save what works best for you. There are no "best" tools, except those you will actually use.

To me, the "mobile" label applies to anyone who spends some or all his/her time outside the conventional "office." You may work from home or your car, on the train or at the nearest WiFi hot spot. If you're free to take your job with you and work where you want, as needed, I'd consider you a mobile professional.

Before we start exploring the various solutions, some basic trends I'll reinforce repeatedly in the pages ahead. First, technology, in every category, is continually refined and improved. The next wave of the latest, greatest whatever is always on its way to the product pipeline. Wait for what you need to be perfected, your wait will never end. And, to wait is only to deny yourself the productive gains of tools you could use, today.

So, once you identify your need, the best time to buy is now. And, always buy the best product you can afford when you're buying. It will prolong its useful life.

On hardware, the product cycle works like this. The newest features, the latest innovations are always priced accordingly. What's brand new today, and commands top dollar, will likely be a common feature, available for less, within a year. By then, something else will appear at the high end.

Software is a different story. New features and improvements show up in periodic updates, usually offered to registered users for free, or in a new version of the software. When that new version appears, older versions of the software may still be around at a discount. If your hardware meets manufacturer's recommended specifications, buy the latest version.

That said, it's not always prudent to rush out for a new version of software as soon as it hits the streets. Let others do the pioneer's work, discover the bugs and incompatibilities. Wait for the first round of fixes and you'll be a happier user.

The information in this book should help you know what you're talking about and ask intelligent questions when shopping. With hardware, I always recommend a little hands on experience before buying. The critical importance of ergonomics cannot be overstated. What feels great in one person's hands might seem a cramped and cumbersome nuisance in another's. You'll only know if you try it.

Company employees should seek initial guidance and recommendations from your resident IT expert as a first step. You'll probably want to integrate your tools with the company system and software to some degree. You want that process to be as painless as possible. Asking ahead could spare headaches later.

Everyone should seek the advice of your peers. Ask what they use and why, what they like or don't like about their tools. Take a look at online reviews by professional editors as well as consumers. Reports from actual users impart honest insights about the good and bad about brands and models.

When you buy hardware, especially mobile computers, you'll be given an opportunity to purchase an extended warranty. Evaluate the added expense against the cost of replacing an out of warranty product. With computers, the extended warranty from the manufacturer may also be bundled with extended tech support. Since many companies now charge, per event, for product assistance, this part of the plan could pay for itself over the useful life of the product,

With technology, that's usually a maximum of three years. Two and at most three years from when you buy hardware or software, enough improvements will have made their way into the market that you should at least consider trading up to this year's model.

Specs change over time, but usually not the core product concept. For that reason, I've tried to avoid mentioning specific models or specifications as much as possible. That way, this book should have a longer shelf life, and give you a basic understanding that will help you make informed purchases on these necessary tools, those latest specs.

At the end of each chapter you'll find links to a few websites where you can learn more about that category. I'm also putting together a more comprehensive directory of web resources, by product type, at the Real Tech Tools website, and will try to update it as my schedule allows.

I thank you for this opportunity and hope I succeed, as I've set out, to provide you with essential information on the mobile tools and technology that will help you in your career.

MJA

2010

Introduction to Second Edition

Two years is a long time in the world of technology.

If it's been that long since you purchased your equipment, it's time to consider an upgrade.

Two years is a long time for books about technology, as well.

Since I first wrote and published this ebook in 2010, some emerging trends then have evolved into the defining trends of the day. So, I've refreshed the book with updated info exploring the convergence now driving and defining mobile productivity in smartphones, tablets and Web based software and services. Some tools treated separately in the original book— GPS navigation, for instance— are now standard features of handheld devices, or available as an app. In other areas, like digital imaging, smartphones and tablets aren't yet fully viable alternatives, but their capabilities continually improve.

Perhaps the most dramatic change, and most important for the future of our increasingly mobile careers and lifestyle, is the shift underway to "the cloud." Combined with the anywhere/anytime access of Web-enabled hardware, cloud services deliver the practical value of mobility long promised in previous generations of hardware and software.

This revised and updated edition reflects these changes with new content on smartphones, tablets and apps, and convergence in the cloud.

The remainder of the ebook presented the original copy, with updated references to specs or other features where needed. My original intention with this book remains: to provide the new or novice user with the working knowledge to make smart purchases, wise choices in the tools they embrace. Information in the first edition still applies to the varied features of multi-function devices. In some cases, it still makes the most sense to carry a specialized device like a camera for specific functions.

I thank you for your business and hope you find this book a useful resource. I also maintain an occasional blog(LINK) where I write about topics and tools I think may be of interest to-Realtors and other mobile professionals. I also invite your comments, questions or suggestions.

Thanks again,

MJA

2012

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Smartphones:

The World in Your Hand

If there is one essential tool, it's now the Smartphone, the mobile office for many professionals.

The smartphone allows them carry less but do more: communicate with clients, get directions, run apps, compose or view documents and contracts, video conference, with clients, access the Web, take pictures and movies.

At this writing, fully half of all mobile phone users now carry one of these multifunction handsets. If you're not among them, you're likely to consider a smartphone as your next upgrade. There will always be those who prefer the compact convenience of a no-frills mobile phone. But for a growing number of professional user, the smartphone is now key to mobile productivity..

Smart Phones in Real Estate

Real estate agents and brokers were among the first professionals to embrace smartphones, and have remained loyal to the concept as it evolved into versatile, multifunction handsets.

Today's smartphones deliver everything required for mobile productivity: multiple channels for communicating with clients by voice, text or email; point-to-point directions and real time traffic updates; a camera/camcorder always in hand; anywhere/anytime web access for information on the latest listings; a cloud connected device for retrieving documents and data stored there; a fully functional handheld computer, powered by apps.

The only limits they've encountered are in the small screen and keypad. The screen too small to share with clients or view web pages; the keypad too cramped for composing lengthy correspondence. Such realizations have many also carrying some form of notebook or a tablet PC, even as they continue to use their smartphone as their personal, primary mobile computer.

Value

As a handheld communicator/computer/camera, a smartphone is equipped for the basic needs of anyone who works out of the office. It allows you to communicate with clients in whatever mode they prefer: voice calling, email, or text messaging. Run the right app(software program) and the smartphone adds a new dimension to mobile communications, as a channel for video conferencing.

Today's smartphones are full-powered handheld computers with the high speed processors, RAM, memory and wireless connection options once exclusive to laptop or desktop systems. As with those PCs, the software apps available for your smartphone add all types of functionality. In real estate, for example there are apps to search the local MLS, map available properties, create a floor-plan, read QR codes, or capture legally binding digital signatures.

A smartphone is also a full function digital camera and high resolution camcorder. Image quality varies from model to model, but is adequate for use on the Web. Although the optics built into smartphones is limited, aftermarket accessory lenses, adapters and filters can compensate.

Your smartphone also serves as a GPS navigation system. Directions and local points of interest may be provided as a service through your cellular provider, as an app bundled with the smartphone, or as a third party app you can download and install later.

All of this functionality, and much more via apps,is yours in a device small enough to slip in your purse or pocket.

You Should Know

The smartphone may not be the mobile device of choice for all users. One of the common complaints is the relatively small screen size. Anyone with vision problems may have trouble or find it cumbersome to view web pages or read documents on the small screen.(See next chapter on tablets)

The other most common complaint concerns data entry. Whenever you need to type on a smartphone you tap tiny images of keys on a "soft keypad" which appears on its touch-sensitive screen. Some users find this awkward to use and make a lot of mistakes.

There are voice recognition apps available to convert speech into text, but they don't yet deliver the absolute accuracy most business users require. That will change over time, however, as voice recognition technology improves.

Like any computer, one of the keys to the versatile functionality of a smartphone is it's operating system(OS). Smartphones can only run the apps compatible with its OS, and these should be considered when deciding on phones. The current line-up includes Apple's proprietary iOS, which runs on the iPhone exclusively; Google Android, currently offered on the largest selection of smartphones; Blackberry OS running Blackberry devices: and Windows Phone, a component of Windows 8 for compatible hardware.

Currently the iPhone enjoys the largest catalog of apps, but Android is rapidly gaining. For a complete look at all is available, check the respective app stores for Apple's iOS; Google's Android, Microsoft's Windows Phone; and Research In Motion's  Blackberry OS.

For mobile web access, smartphone performance depends on the network it's connected to or availability of a local WiFI "hot spot." Cellular service providers 3G and newer, faster 4G networks should deliver a reliable and seamless web experience as you roam.

In the U.S., phones are usually bundled with a service plan, typically two years. As with cellular phones, you can buy some smartphones in a locked or "unlocked" version,

A locked phone is typically bundled with a service contract . Purchased this way, the cost of the phone is often subsidized by the service provider, thereby lowering initial cost as enticement to sign that contract. Smartphones purchased as an unlocked version carry the manufacturers full retail price, but will still require that service contract.

Handset manufacturers continually strive to improve the design and features of their lines. New models come to market throughout the year. While Apple tends to upgrade the iPhone annually, manufacturers of Android devices and Windows devices may add new new models more frequently. They may also distribute different versions of the same basic hardware through several cellular service providers, or offer the same model under different names or model numbers.

All smartphones carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price, but in most case you'll pay much less with a two-year service contract, the norm. Prices vary depending on features and release date,with the newest models commanding top dollar. Older smartphones are available for much less, even free with that contract. Another way to save on hardware is to purchase a refurbished model directly from the manufacturer or service provider.

Choices

As a multi-function handset, purchasing a smartphone entails more considerations than a standard mobile phone. Approach it as a mobile phone first,however. Availability of reliable service—wherever your work day takes you— is your the top priority. That service network empowers its communications and computing functions.

Your choice then turns to which smartphones are offered by the local cellular provider with the most reliable service. All now offer a selection of handsets with a variety of features, running different operating systems. Again, the phone's OS is critical as it determines which software apps run on that smartphone. Decide what core functions you want from the smartphone and check the catalogs to see what apps are available.(For more on apps, check the Tablets and Apps chapter)

For example, Realtors should check with their local MLS for advice on which platform platforms it supports with its app for mobile searches. Whatever your business ,check with the publishers of any specialized software you use on your computer, to see if an app is available for the smartphone OS.

From software the evaluation turns to hardware, and the same specs you'd evaluate when buying any other computer: processor type and speed, amount of RAM, built in-memory and expansion options, and support for wireless connections via Bluetooth and WiFi.

At this writing(late 201) the latest smartphones feature dual core, even quad-core processors, rated 1.2GHz or better. A 1GHz dual core processor with 1GB RAM has been the minimum standard but that's bound to increase, Many handsets have a built-in microSD card slot which allows you to add additional memory for storing data. In addition to connecting with Wi Fi networks, some models can also serve as mobile WiFi hot spots,themselves for "tethering." This allows you to share the smartphones cellular connection with other devices for accessing the web.

Smartphones tend to be larger and a bit bulkier than other mobile phone handsets. This results from all the functionality built into the device as well as screen type and size. Screens are measured diagonally, with the largest currently offered pushing toward five inches. The screen is where you see it all: view content on the web, retrieve data, dial calls, and control all functions.

All smartphones have touch screens, with some sort of protective coating. A few models feature mini-QWERTY keypads for entering data, but the majority have "soft keypads" on screen. The quality of the display can vary depending on model and type of screen. The next innovation in screen technology will be more durable, flexible screes which you can twist or drop without risk of damaging the unit.

Cameras are also a standard feature, but imaging features and quality vary. Most units include two cameras, a front-facing webcam for video chats, and a higher resolution rear-facing camera for photos and video. As specs continue to improve, look for at least a 5MP image sensor and high resolution 1080 HD video recording. An LED flash which also serves as a light when recording video will improve picture quality in poorly lit settings.

If image quality really matters, also explore the aftermarket and see what kind of lenses and other camera accessories are available for the specific smartphone you are considering. A telephoto lens adapter, for example greatly improves the ability to zoom in on your subject.

Smartphones offer a range of voice recognition and speech synthesis technology. Apple's Siri, the "digital assistant" which responds with answers to spoken questions, demonstrates how voice technology can make the smartphone a more functional tool. Other voice recognition software lets the user announce a person's name and the phone dials that number. Speech to text for composing email and text has been available for several years. Google's Chrome bowser provides the means to search the web with spoken keywords, and the Google Translate app translate what you say in one language into another.

All this functionality requires power. Battery life should also way in your evaluation. Fortunately, manufactures have made great strides in battery life( expressed in Mille-ampere hours or mAH) Those ratings are calculated under optimum conditions.

Be realistic about your power needs in the field. If you require more you may want to look for a phone which allows you to swap batteries, as needed. Some do not.

Smartphone Glossary

4G LTE: For Fourth Generation Long Term Evolution, the latest networking standard for cellular voice and data communications. supplanting 3G.

AMOLED: A display technology for improved screen resolution while reducing power needs. Also referenced as Super AMOLED.

Android Versions: The Android operating system developed by Google, has been released in several versions, each described by a name and a number., such as Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, Android version(v)2.2, Froyo; v2.3, Gingerbread; and v3.x,Honeycomb, for tablets. The OS version can determine features and compatible apps.

Dual Core or Quad Core Processor: A computer processor with multiple cores, each capable of handling its own stream of data, to increase the speed and overall performance.

LED Flash: A type of camera flash found on some smartphones which uses energy efficient light emitting diodes(LED).

mAH: Milli-ampere hours, a measure of available battery power when fully charged. Actual battery life depends on how the smartphone is used.

Unlocked: An unlocked phone is available as a standalone purchase without a service contract,.

Windows Phone: Microsoft's operating system for smartphones, this term may also be used to describe smartphones compatible with it.

To Learn More

You can learn more about specific aspects of a smartphone's performance by exploring the book's chapters on digital cameras, computers and navigation systems.

Since smartphone technology is so rapidly evolving, the best place to learn about your latest options and shop for them is your cellular provider's website or local retail outlet. Also check the manufacturers' websites of a particular brand or brands that interest you. There you will find in depth information on features and performance, with links to carriers or suppliers in your area.

As with all things today, there's a wealth of information available on the Web, from product reviews to blogs about the latest technology. Sites like PocketNow() and FindTheBest are useful resources for the latest developments in this evolving market.

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Tablets and Apps

If you don't own a tablet computer, you're probably considering one as your next PC. Tablets now rank with smartphones as "must have" tools for mobile productivity.

Whether you need to make personal presentations to clients, video conference, take pictures or record video, compose and sign a digital contract, or do all those things you do on your laptop, your tablet can be whatever you require that moment.

Powered by your choice in software apps, it delivers all the promise of the mobile office in one sleek and elegant device. Much of this can be said about smartphones, but the tablet's larger screen and keyboard, combined with other features, make it the preferred portable computing solution for many business users and consumers

First let's look at the hardware, then turn to the apps.

Tablets in Real Estate

The new generation of tablets, especially iPads and the assortment of Android models, have found their place in real estate. As a device with a larger screen than a smartphone, the tablet is the preferred tool for sharing listing information or making presentation to clients. That larger screen also lends itself to reading, revising and ultimately signing digital forms and contracts electronically. A growing number of mobile real estate agents also prefer the tablet format for viewing websites, reviewing and editing pictures, building tours on the fly.

The hardware is only half the story, however. An abundant selection of apps, including many developed specifically for real estate, make the device a more useful tool, essentially whatever you need that moment. You can comfortably search listings then view them on a map with clients; make a listing presentation or prepare and review a CMA; even use the tablet as a digital guestbook for open houses, with easy follow-up at the end of the day.

Many of these same real estate apps run on smartphones. For comfortably working, viewing and sharing,though, tablets make the more practical tool.

You Should Know

To many, iPad is synonymous with tablet. Since its launch, Apple's take on tablet computing finally legitimized a product concept around for years. Consider the iPad as the standard by which all competing products in this category are now judged.

But is it the right tablet for you?

That depends on what you want from the tablet experience, and where you are in your adoption of computers and smartphones. Today, a tablet is best approached as the mobile extension of your primary PC.

All tablets give users finger tip control of software features and functions on a touchscreen. Where they diverge is in operating systems, design and size, expansion and connectivity options, and hardware features. As with smartphones, the operating system(OS) determines the compatible catalog of software programs, referred to as "apps." It's these apps, available at little or no cost, which make the tablet such a versatile machine.

Current operating systems for tablets and smartphones include Apple's proprietary iOS; Google's Android/) ;  Blackberry OS(l) ; and present and future versions of  Windows.

Because of the popularity of the iPad, most app developers initially focus on it, although app support for Android is catching up. What matters most to each user, though, is whether the right combination of apps you need is available to adapt the tablet to your career goals.

Tablets really are just a new type of portable computer, especially compact, responsive and versatile. Like any computer, consider the same key specs when evaluating different models. The basics include the type and speed of the processor, amount of RAM, and available flash memory for storing data. Since it's a portable device, you also want to know what kind of wireless connections it supports, and whether it can send/receive data and access the web over cellular broadband networks.

With tablets, more than other types of PCs, the screen is one of the most critical features. It serves as both user interface and window to all the tablet offers. One complaint with early tablets was poor screen visibility under direct sunlight, but welcome advances have been made in both screen brightness and resolution.

Screen size also determines the physical size of the tablet, with choices clustered in the 7-inch and 10-inch range. A 7-inch model is compact enough to slip into a purse, pocket or pouch. The larger, 10-inch models make it easier to comfortably share whatever is on screen with clients, however.

All true tablets weigh less than 1.5 pounds. For those who want a tablet without surrendering notebook functionality, there is also a small selection of hybrid tablet/notebooks which are larger and heavier. On these, the touch sensitive screen functions as a tablet, as well as the screen for a notebook with keyboard

Most tablets have front and rear facing cameras for photos and HD video. The front facing webcam is typically low res and serves for video conferencing and chatting. The higher res rear-facing camera, 5MP or better, is used for capturing still pictures and video recordings. The lens is typically a fixed focus lens with digital zoom, and an LED flash is only offered on some models. For improved optics like higher zoom or a wide angle lens, several companies now offer snap-on accessory lens and adapters.

As truly mobile computers, all tablets require some sort of wireless connection to access the web and connect to printers and other devices in their immediate area. Many apps will not function without a web connection. Depending on model and price, this wireless connection may be provided in different ways.Built-in support for WiFi and Bluetooth wireless are standard features. In addition, many models can connect to the Internet via mobile broadband networks.

When a vendor offers different version its tablet, the lowest priced version is WiFi compatible. It connects to the Web through WiFi, and is only fully functional within range of a router or WiFi hot spot.

Higher-end, more expensive versions connect to the Internet over the mobile broadband services, 3G and the latest 4G networks. Once connected, some of these high-end models can serve as a hot spot themselves, sharing the connection with other wireless hardware through "tethering."

The other feature which impacts price within brands is the amount of internal flash memory built into the unit. This is expressed in gigabytes(GB,) each gigabyte roughly equal to 1000 megabytes of storage capacity. Current choices range from low-end models with 8GB of internal flash memory to top-of-the-line tablets with 64GB. Over time, internal memory will increase.

Evaluating Tablets

The right tablet are can be a fun, stylish, truly liberating tool for mobile productivity. Be sure to consider apps before selecting your hardware(see following section).

Then, establish your price range as it will quickly narrow the field.

The amount of internal flash memory, and compatibility with wireless broadband networks will impact price of models offered in good-better-best versions.

Camera quality varies, but no tablet can yet rival the optics of a true digital camera/camcorder

If you're not comfortable using an on-screen keypad, you'll want the option of a keypad dock or accessory keyboard. If you envision connecting other devices, or expanding capabilities, consider features like standard USB ports or a micro SD card slot .

Screen size determines size and weight of the unit and power needs. Seven-inch models are more portable, but a 10-inch screen is easier to see and share.Treat estimates of battery life with some skepticism. Ultimately it depends on on how you use your tablet.

The right tablet feels and looks right in hand. You can't make that determination online. Visit stores and explore features, run some apps on different models. Then make your determination.

Someone in your office or professional association has already transitioned to a tablet. They can be your best resource for advice on which tablet to buy, what you'll need to make it a fully functional tool in your business.

Apps For Everything

Like all computers, a tablet can't do much without software. That's where the apps come in. Most apps are free or cost only a few dollars. That gives you some freedom to experiment with different apps until you identify your best tools.

Ask contacts at your trade or professional organizations which tablet operating system is best for your career, what apps are available. Find out about digital contracts and signatures, what's acceptable, what's required to take your business paperless, via your tablet. Also see what app support is offered by publishers of business software you use.

It's the OS which determines which apps run on any tablet. Those which run on a tablet usually run on smartphones with the same OS. For an idea of all that is available, browse the respective app stores: iTunes

Apple's iOS for the iPhone and iPad, Google Play for Android devices; and more limited catalogs for Blackberry) and Windows Phone .

In apps as in full blown software applications, most professionals rely on some combination of specialized software and generic off-the-shelf programs. You'll likely rely on a few core apps for day-to-day business activities. They should deliver comparable features and performance to programs you've used on your PC.

Think of your established work habits, what you require for mobile productivity, how you want information organized, what software tools you need throughout the day, and which will make your professional life easier. Then find the right apps.

Basics include a contact manager; mobile Web browser; a word processor for viewing, editing and sharing documents, contracts and presentations; and a photo management/image editing program. If these aren't bundled into the tablet's OS, you can find and download them at your respective "app store."

A variety of apps will make your phone or tablet a more useful tool in new and novel ways. For example, a code scanner/reader equips your device to "read" different types of bar codes for product pricing and information or to launch a website from a QR codes. Others apps tap the unit's camera for digitizing documents or receipts into sharable, searchable PDFs Cloud solutions like DropBox and EverNote ensure the same information is always available in the cloud, whatever device you're using

More specialized apps provide specific functionality related to your career. In real estate, for example, a property search app instantly retrieves information on the latest property listings, while another app lets you point the camera and click to create a floor plan. Apps which tell you what else is in the area, based on present location, provide valuable information when you need gas, lodging or want to take a client to lunch. There's all kinds of apps for tracking expenses, calculating loans, mortgages, depreciation, commissions, etc.

Other apps deliver contracts and forms to your mobile hardware, and can capture an electronic signature when it's time to sign. For personal security, there are safety apps which can be set to alert others about your location, or notify them if you haven't deactivated the alert feature after a specified time.

With new apps introduced all the time, there's no limit to the potential uses of your tablet or smartphone.

Tablet and App Glossary

Accelerometer: A motion sensor built into a tablet to determine how it is held so content is displayed appropriately in portrait or landscape mode.

Adobe Flash: A multi-media format for displaying animation, movies and video online. Not to be confused with "flash" which refers to a type of memory.

App Store: Online software catalogs where users can purchase and download apps compatible with your device and operating system.

Cloud: Software as a service which resides online. Apps which are stored in the cloud require a web connection for full functionality

Digital Pen/ Stylus: A pen-shaped tool used to control software functions and sign documents on a touch-sensitive screen.

Installed App: An app bundled with your hardware. Installed apps usually allow you to use features whether or not you are connected to the Internet. Other connect to cloud-based services to provide functionality.

Lite: A limited or introductory version of an app, usually offered for free as a way or introducing potential users to its features.

Multi-touch: A type of screen and input method for controlling functions of a tablet. A multi-touch screen recognizes when two or more fingers are touching the screen to control functions, highlight text, enlarge images, close windows, etc.

Swype: An typing method on touch-screens where the user slides from key to key on the screen keypad, rather than tapping individual keys. Either built into a system or available as an app.

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Mobile Phones

Even in this era of smartphones, there are some who will always prefer a basic handset. The mobile phone, or phone functions, remain critical to mobile productivity, especially for those who choose a tablet over smartphone as their mobile computer.

Mobile Phones in Real Estate

In real estate, the mobile phone forever changed the game. As the communications link from the field, it saved time while leaving agents freer to roam their territory. Downtime once wasted on trips to and from the office are now productive hours for calling, consulting with buyers and sellers, setting up showings, taking calls otherwise missed.

For some, that basic mobile phone is still the ideal. They prefer the straightforward simplicity of a no frills phone over a more ambitious smartphone. With voice, text and email, communications are covered; navigation services make it a useful tool for getting around town; the phone camera may be limited but it's good enough for visually conveying a property's basic features and appeal. That's enough phone for minimalists. When they need more, they'll bring along a tablet or notebook, or upgrade to a smartphone.

Value

Without a mobile phone, you'd be tethered to your desk, beyond reach when out and about. There was a time when those who worked in the field knew the location of every pay phone in town; if they didn't make repeated calls into the office, they had no way of knowing a meeting had been pushed back until arriving at the client site. Worse, if you forgot a form or document, you were headed back to headquarters.

Thanks to today's wireless communications those days are long gone. Your mobile phone is a key to productivity, and it allows much more than mere voice calling. Mobile professionals are just as likely to use email or text messaging to keep in touch with all who matter.

With a smartphone—and phones are getting "smarter" all the time— you can also run software, or browse the web, from the palm of your hand.

That's empowerment.

You Should Know

Phones continually evolve in size, design, features and performance. Throughout the year, new models appear. If there is an overriding trend, it is to pack more features and performance into a more compact handheld device.

For a mobile professional, the most important consideration to make today is whether you buy a standard cell phone, or a smartphone. A cell phone may share many features with a smartphone— camera, contact records, email, web browsing and texting options— but a true smartphone is also a handheld computer. It can run a host of software app compatible with its operating system.

Equipment vendors are putting more emphasis on these multi-function handsets, while continually upgrading the capabilities of standard phones. Bear in mind, though, a new smartphone will costs considerably more than a cellphone.

In the U.S., phones are usually bundled with a service plan, typically two years. You can buy certain phones in an "unlocked" version, but a hardware/service bundle usually gives you more value for the dollar. When purchased in a bundle, the cost of the phone may be subsidized by the service provider, thereby lowering initial cost as enticement to sign that contract.

Consequently, your choices are usually dictated by which phones are offered by the cellular carriers serving your area. When you purchase your phone with a service contract, the phone is "locked" and will only work on that carrier's network. "Unlocked" phones can be set up to work with compatible networks. This is one way to get around the limited selection your carrier may offer, but you will still need a service contract.

Calling plans are priced based on the number of minutes the contract allows, with surcharges for minutes exceeding the basic plan. Additional fees may apply for text messaging units, and web access. For most mobile professionals, it makes sense to purchase an unlimited calling plan, or, if you plan to use it to browse the web and send/receive email, an unlimited voice and data plan.

Choices

The more you want from your mobile handset, the more the phone will cost. Finding the best deal may require some legwork and comparative shopping. Certain phones are available in different versions from several carriers. The model number or the name may change, but it's the same phone, different brand.

Basic phones are often offered for free or at a nominal charge with the service contract. They provide standard calling features, limited contact/calendar functions, perhaps a low resolution camera, and texting. In the mid-range you'll find phones with step-up features like web browsing, improved camera/video functions, more memory and software functions. The high-end smartphones were designed and developed as multifunction handheld computers and communications solutions.

Design can impact price, with the size of the phone, size and type of screen, layout and design of keypad, expansion options and step-up features all impacting price. Current design types include "candy bar" or "bricks," a one piece handset; "clamshells" or "flip phones" which fold up as a more compact solution; and "sliders" in which the screen moves out of the way to reveal a hidden keypad.

Which features matter most, which are secondary? Deciding which phone is best for your needs requires a self assessment of need: Will a simple phone and voice plan serve, or do you want all the options. Email? Wireless web? Photos and video? Music too? And how big and bright a screen do you require?

Do you want the best web browsing experience or the highest resolution camera? Does software compatibility matter?

Every yes narrows your choices.

Features

Basic Handsets: Even the most inexpensive phone, the one likely to be bundled with a service contract at little or no charge, has these basic features. As a phone, it supports voice calling, call waiting, caller ID, call logging and voice mail. Some also allow for conference calling. For hands-free calling, most models include a headphone and mic jack, and/or Bluetooth wireless compatibility.

A first point of comparison can be the phone's address book and scheduling functions. All phones include storage space for contact names and numbers, and a calendar feature, but memory capacity may be limited. Information stored in memory empowers the phone's one-touch dialing, and caller ID features. On many models a removable memory card can be used to expand storage capacity.

A basic phone can display several lines of text: number called, incoming caller's ID, call log, etc . The standard mode of data entry is with an alphanumeric keypad. Entering numbers is straightforward enough, simply press the appropriate number key. For names, and text, you tap-tap-tap the keys to compose letters of the alphabet assigned to each.

Once you move beyond these basics, your choices begin to diverge. Here's a rundown of available extras, with many of these available on inexpensive phones. To take advantage of all, you'll need a full-featured smartphone.

Bands: A mobile phone may be described as a dual, tri or quad band phone. As you shop you'll encounter acronyms like GSM, CDMA, EV-DO, 3G, 4G, LTE used to describe different phones. All this information refers to the cellular networks that particular handset can operate on, as different carriers used different types of networks. This can all get confusing to the user's whose real concern should be reliable service.

What you need to know is whether any given phone will operate in the areas where you work and roam. Let the availability of service there guide you to your choice in phones. Check coverage area maps for local carriers. Ask subscribers to different providers about satisfaction with service. You want a phone compatible with the most reliable service.

Texting and Email: Texting is a preferred communications link for many users when corresponding with established contacts and clients. Also referred to SMS(short messaging service)it may be a modestly priced add-on service. Multi-media messaging(MMS) describes the ability to send/receive messages containing photos or videos. This can be a valuable tool for visual communications, say showing a prospect a new real estate listing, or relaying a damage claim back to an insurance office.

Email is another option for mobile communications and may be more important to some. Real time send/receive email capabilities may require an additional service plan. Since email moves over the Internet, an unlimited data plan is again recommended. With email, you may also receive incoming faxes as a pdf document which can be displayed on some screens.

Keypad: If you plan to compose text messages or email on an ongoing basis, consider the type of keypad. The standard approach is to use the phone's alpha-numeric keypad for entering text. An alternative is offered in phones with "mini QWERTY" keypads.The entire keypad is arranged in the familiar layout of a full-sized keyboard, allowing users to enter letters by striking a key once, as opposed to the tap--tap-tapping required on an alpha-numeric keypad. On phones and smart phones with touch-sensitive screens, the "soft keypad" appears on screen as key icons which the user taps as if typing.

Voice Activation: Some models are equipped with voice recognition technology. This gives the user spoken command control over some phone functions. For example, announce a person's name and the phone dials that number. Over time, accuracy improves It's a convenience and a safety feature: you can keep your eyes on the wheel and still dial and answer calls.

Screen: The screen becomes an increasingly important feature as you move away from basic phones. Screen size and resolution can be especially critical when surfing the web or reading documents. Many new phones feature that touchscreen which serves as the user interface. By touching or tapping the screen, you can compose text, control functions, place calls, and retrieve files

Color quality and brightness of the screen all impact the user experience. Evaluate its screen under a range of lighting situations, inside and out, bright room and dimly lit corner.

Camera: A camera for capturing stills and recording video is now a standard feature on all but the least expensive phones. The quality of that camera, rated in megapixels(MP), varies greatly, however.

If your job requires taking a lot of pictures, pay close attention to the phone's imaging capabilities. A high end cameraphone, at least 5MP or better, can eliminate the need to carry a separate camera in some situations. The one area cameraphones still lag behind a standalone camera is in optics. Apart from digital zoom, which is a software function, higher quality optical zoom is rare, but you can improve camera phone optics with accessory lenses and adapters, if available for that model. LED photo flash is a feature found on some phones with cameras s, and may serve as a light for recording video in low lit settings.

To most, the most important camera feature is the phone's megapixel(MP) rating. It describes how much image information the camera can capture, in millions of pixels. Anything with a 3MP image sensor or better can capture pictures good enough for display on the web or as small prints. 41MP phones have already appeared overseas, and an 8MP sensor seems to be emerging as the minimum standard in terms of image resolution

Previously phone video was "good enough" when nothing else was available. True HD video recording is now a standard feature on many new phones, for recording high resolution video.

Memory: All phones have a limited amount of internal memory for storing names, numbers and perhaps a few pictures. Look for a phone with a memory card slot. With these, you can expand the phone's memory capacity by slipping in a removable flash media card. Available with storage capacities of 1GB or better, these greatly enhance all you can do with the phone, and may be required for some software applications.

Currently the most popular flash memory formats for phones are the mini and micro SD cards. With one of these you can easily move files from to/from a computer, but a special adapter may be required for playback in a computer's memory card slot.

Navigation: Mobile professionals should consider GPS navigation a necessity: It's a time saver which will allow you to make more productive use of your day.(see GPS chapter)

Some phones have GPS navigation capabilities built in. More common, though are GPS navigation services, as an optional upgrade to your wireless service plan or as an app installed on a smartphone. All work fine for getting you from point to point, and finding out what restaurants, gas stations, etc., are in the immediate area of your present location.

Wireless web: With today's digital networks, you can surf the web anywhere you can send or receive a cell call. That requires a specially equipped phone with some form of web browser installed and a wireless data service. If your job requires easy access to the web throughout the day, you'll welcome that capability in your phone.

Web browsing on a phone's tiny screen is not always comfortable, so screen zoom/enlarge capabilities should be considered. On most phones, you connect to the web over the cellular service directly. A few high-end models back that up with support for Wifi so you can connect to the web wherever you find a wireless network "hot spot." A few new models can serve as mobile hot spots themselves in a process called tethering. With these, the phone can share its mobile broadband connection with wireless devices in its immediate area.

Running Software: For a phone to serve as your handheld computer, it needs a processor and RAM, and a software operating system. These are all distinguishing features of "smartphones" (See Smartphone and Computer chapters)). Phone operating systems include Apple's iOS, Google's Android, Blackberry and Windows Phone

Only certain phones will run certain operating systems. If software matters, if you plan to use the phone as a mobile computer, check into the range of software applications or "apps" available for that platform. In fact, if there's industry-specific software you already rely on, check and see if the publisher offers a smartphone version.

Form and Ergonomics: Before you buy, hands-on experience with mobile handsets you're considering is advised. It's the only way to know which offers you the most comfortable experience when talking, listening, composing messages, surfing the web or running software.

Questions:

The bottom line: Will your phone keep you in touch, and productive, wherever you need it? That question entails all concerns you should have about the phone and carrier, as well as the handsets features and performance. Approach your choices in terms of your mobile communications and computing needs. A smartphone can serve as your primary or secondary mobile PC.

As far as the handset goes, how long you have to decide if you like it? Also, if you already have a phone loaded with numbers and contact information, can you swap the SIM card into the new phone, and save yourself the work of reentering that information?

Because you'll likely buy your phone as a hardware/service bundle, scrutinize the service contract. What's covered in your monthly bill, and when will you incur additional charges? What are your options, and costs, if you decide to upgrade the plan, or buy a new phone or terminate the contract?

Mobile Phone Glossary

3G/4G: For Third Generation wireless, the technologies which empower faster transmission of voice and especially data, sure to eventually be superseded by 4G, then 5G.

Analog: The original cellular technology which used radio waves to send/receive transmissions.

Band: A range of frequencies used for cellular communications,

Bandwidth: The amount of data carried over a transmission.

Broadband: A wide-band for voice, data and possibly video transmissions.

CDMA and GSM: The two primary competing mobile phone network technologies in the U.S. Cell phones operate on either CDMA technology or GSM technology, unless they are multi band phones compatible with both.

EVDO, EDGE, UMTS and HSDPA,  LTE: Acronyms used in reference to specific high speed data transmission networks.

Locked/unlocked Phones: Carriers usually 'lock' a phone when the phone is sold at a subsidized with a service plan. A locked phone only recognizes the removable SIM card provided by that carrier. An unlocked phone will recognize a SIM card from any carrier. Phones sold at full retail value without a service plan are generally unlocked.

SIM card: Subscriber Identity Module, the removable memory card used in phones to store information.

WAP: Wireless Access protocol, a standard for wireless Internet access.

To Learn More

You can learn more about specific aspects of a phones performance by exploring the book's chapters on digital cameras, software, and computers and operating systems.

Since phone technology is continually evolving, the best place to learn about the latest options is your cellular provider's website or local retail outlet. You can always learn about what phone choices or features you may be missing by visiting the sites and stores of other carriers, as well.

Also check the manufacturers' websites of a particular brand or brands that interest you. There you will find in depth information on features and performance, with links to carriers or suppliers in your area.

As with all things today, there's a wealth of information available on the web, from product reviews to blogs about the latest technology. Sites like the Cell Phone and Wireless Service Buying Guide or Phonescoop can be useful resources for mobile phone news, reviews and comparing plans or handsets.

For a list of more resources, check the RealTechTools section for Mobile Phones. There is also a separate page for Smartphones.

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Computers: New Options for Mobility

Some type of computer is the hub of productivity for today's professionals, whether you spend your day out and about or tethered to a desk.

The definition of the mobile computer has expanded in the past few years to encompass different product types: notebooks and laptops, from a full-powered desktop replacement to the most ultra-portables; and tablets, which add a touchscreen to the user interface; and smartphones, the diminutive and ubiquitous hybrid cell phone/computer.

Mobile Computers in Real Estate.

There's no doubt you need a mobile computing solution in real estate; the question is which one is best for you. Sales associates and brokers use mobile computers of every type: notebook, ultrabook, tablet and smartphones. A few use them all. More often it's some combination of these.

Whatever you choose, these are all tools of empowerment. Real estate services can be judged by the quality and timeless of information you provide. Mobile computing makes this a truly mobile career, putting all the data, software and resources the job requires at hand. Location becomes secondary, your desk is where you are. Listing information, tours, disclosure forms and contracts, it's there waiting in the cloud.

The right computer for you? It as much about style as personal preference.

Value

Consider the many ways a mobile professional can use his or computer in the field: composing documents; real time correspondence with clients; storing and distributing contracts and forms; creating flyers, newsletters and other marketing materials; organizing information about contacts, activity and transactions; accessing the Internet and all resources there; editing photos and video files; managing business finances and expenses; analyzing the effectiveness of marketing campaigns; preparing incisive reports for sharing with managers and peers.

The computer you carry is your mobile office, the key to productivity when you're away from your desk. Whatever your job entails, your mobile system empowers your ability to work on the go, freeing you from the confines of the office while maintaining s links to all the resources so vital to commerce and customer service.

This category evolved in several directions over the last few years, delivering a variety of practical solutions for the demands of every mobile profession. Your mobile PC can be an attaché case sized system or a souped-up phone that slips into your pocket. What you choose is as much about personal work style and preferences as the practical benefits of the hardware and software.

There is a mobile computing solution for every user, and the choices continually expanding as computer technology evolves.

Solutions

In the beginning of the computer age you had one choice: a desktop PC. Then came the "portables," as big as a sewing machine at first. As the performance and features improved, the size also shrank into smaller packages, compact enough to be called laptops, then notebooks.Now,ultrabooks have been added, as thing and light PCs for work with software as services in the cloud.

Today's computer user has other choices. Tablets offer a more compact mobile solution than a traditional notebook, replacing the keyboard with a touch sensitive screen for entering data and controlling applications. Smartphones, another option, evolved up from cell phones to function and serve as true hand-held computers no bigger than a phone, yet rivaling larger systems in their ability to run software and connect to the web.

As a mobile professional, you can expect to employ a combination of these devices. Some will prefer the compact connectivity of a smartphone or tablet as all that's required in the field. Others will find a notebook or ultrabook with its larger screen and keyboard, delivers a more comfortable user experience. A few more may consider the desktop PC as their primary system, and approach a mobile solution as a portable extension of it.

Whatever your preference, all computers share several core components and features. These are comparison points when evaluating the relative advantage and appeal of one type of system over others.

It all depends on what you require from the mobile computing experience.

You Should Know

Computers exemplify several principles which apply to most categories of consumer electronics products:

Systems relentlessly improve, with the latest technology, features and performance always available at the high end of the market. If you wait, you will always be able to get a more powerful system at a lower price point. The moment you open the box, a superior product is already working its way into the product pipeline. Within two or three years from the date of your purchase, technology will have advanced enough to warrant serious consideration of upgrading.

Given all that, the standard advice for any computer purchaser is to buy the best system you can afford today and don't look back. The sooner you get your system, the sooner you can begin taking advantage of it. Waiting only denies you the productive benefits you would otherwise gain from having the system now.

Choices: Operating Systems

Today's computer user faces two broad choices to consider. First there's the operating system, then the type of computer best for you. As far as the OS goes, you can choose between machines running some version of Windows; PCs running Linux; or the Macintosh family which run Apple's proprietary OS X operating system. (For tablets and smartphones the choices are different, and covered in their respective sections)

Since software empowers the system, the depth and breadth of the software catalog should be considered when evaluating your choices in hardware. The computer's operating system also determines the number and variety of software programs available to users.

Windows, the most common operating system, is still included the broadest range of notebook systems. Since Windows has dominated the PC market, most publishers put their emphasis where the numbers are, targeting their programs at Windows systems. This also makes Windows computers a preferred target of hackers, as they focus their malware where they believed they could wreak the most havoc.

Because of Window's popularity, it also has the largest catalog of compatible software applications. Users should note, however, that older software is not always fully compatible with the latest version of the operating system. This is an issue some may face when upgrading to Windows 8.

Linux developed as an open source alternative to Windows and has attracted a small but strong group of enthusiasts. By open source, it means the system is free and open to improvements by all users. It has also garnered some manufacturer support as the preferred operating system on some netbooks. Nevertheless, it may not be the best choice for those whose primary concern is a simple turnkey solution.

OS X is proprietary operating system developed by Apple to run on its Apple Macintosh line of desktop and mobile computers. The graphical user interface which originally distinguished the Mac is now standard features of all computers, yet Mac users contend the OS X is more user-friendly and stable than other platforms.

Since Apple's Macintosh desktop and mobile systems now run the same chips found in many PCs they can also be configured to run the Windows OS and software. For today's user who wants access to the broadest range of software applications, the Mac is now a viable option. That said, Macs tend to be more expensive than Windows PCs. And in order to run Windows applications, the user must also purchase and install a version of the Windows OS, as well as the software programs.

Given all this talk about computer operating systems, there's another trend to keep in mind when evaluating software as part of the system. There's been a decided shift among many publishers to market software as a web-based service "in the cloud.". With these web-based applications, all that's required to use the software is an Internet connection and a web browser, making software compatibility with the OS less a concern. Mobile users should also investigate the selection of web-based applications when considering your next computer.

Choices: Hardware

Once you've decided on operating system, the question becomes which type of computer do you want: notebook, tablet, smartphone. or one in the merging class of ultrabookthin and light mobile PCs.

Given those choices, you may still want and a desktop PC for your office, and carry some form of mobile system in the field. For instance, some users carry their smartphone with them everywhere and pull out the notebook only for presentations to clients. Others rely on a regular cellphone for calls and texting, then pull out the tablet to log on the web.

Today's notebooks can serve as your primary computer. They rival desktop systems in price and features, though you'll always pay a little more for mobility. Spec for spec, they match up well against desktop PCs. That said, however, the largest screen size can only be found on desktop systems, and few notebooks truly rival the comfort of full sized keyboard.

Tablets have developed into a portable platform of their own, with specialized appeal and functionality. Users control all functions, and enter data, by tapping the tablet's touch sensitive screen with fingers or a digital stylus. This can be a real convenience for any mobile professional who regularly works with electronic forms or contracts, or keeps copious notes. A variety of apps are available to convert notes written on screen into text.

Some tablets are "convertible" systems. With the twist of the screen, users switch between their tablet and a standard notebook mode, enter data on screen or with the system's built-in keyboard.

Ultrabooks are the latest take on ultralight or ultra-portable PCs. Extremely thin and light, with minimal internal components. They offer the same convenience and portable appeal which once defined netbooks, but with full sized screens,keyboards and performance..

What makes all these mobile solutions truly practical is the growth of web-based applications and cloud computing. With any system and a wireless connection, one can remain productive wherever one can access the cloud.

Smartphones are an increasingly popular category of hybrid cellphone/computer. The two things working against them as a primary everyday computer: small keyboards and screens. Display size could become less an issue once new projection technologies find their way into these multi-function handsets.

Note: Even with a mobile computer, many users will want desktop system at the office. When two or more computers of any type are used, data synchronization becomes an important feature and functions.

With appropriate software and a wired or wireless connection, you can update information between two or more computers so you always have access to the latest current data. Of course. that's also a selling point of migrating to cloud services.

Standard Features/Basics:

When you shop for any type of computer, you'll be faced with a variety of terms to describe system features and performance. Here's brief overview of some of those key specs and what they mean to you.

Processor: The first feature cited is the computer's processor or central processing unit (CPU). It's usually described by a name denoting a specific type of processor(Core 2 Duo, Core i7, Turion, NVDIA Tegra, ARM, A5 )and speed, expressed in Gigahertz(GHz). It's the heart and mind of the machine.

Many systems now feature multi-core processors with two more or more cores. These can process more data while requiring less power than previous generations of chips. When you buy, you want the fastest processor you can afford. The speed of the processor also places demands on what you want in other components of the system.

RAM: Random access memory(RAM), also referred to by different types such as DRAM or SRAM. RAM describes the amount of internal memory available to the processor as it does its work. Each processor has a specific RAM requirement to run efficiently. Video RAM(VRAM) is dedicated to processing graphics data for enhanced system display.

BUS speed: This refers to the speed with which data can be moved through the system, and another factor which impacts overall system performance.

Internal Drive: Built-in storage space where software applications and user data are saved and stored. A drive's capacity is expressed in gigabytes(GB) or terabytes(TB). Conventional hard drives have moving parts, while the latest "flash" or "solid state" drives(SSD) do not. Flash drives claim less space and require less power to operate, making them an especially attractive solution for mobile computing.

Optical Drive: In addition to their internal storage systems, most computers now come with some form of optical drive. These use a laser to read data stored on optical CD-ROM or DVD disks. Most optical drives can read/write to CD-ROM discs, and higher-capacity DVD disks

Monitor: The computer screen or display. Today's systems employ some form of flat panel screen, typically an LCD or LED-backlit screen. Monitors are described in terms of screen size and pixel resolution, the more pixels the sharper the displayed image Widescreen monitors have a 16:9 aspect ratio, which defines the relation of the width of the screen to its height.

Touch-screens are now offered an all types of computer systems, including desktops and notebooks.

Input/Output ports: A system's versatility also depends on the number of expansion slots or connectors available. They are used to connect other devices either by cable or by plugging the device directly into the port. These can include, USB,, and Thunderbolt ports; PC card slots; media card readers, and various output ports , including HDMI, for connecting external video displays or audio speakers.

Network and Wireless Support: Ethernet describes the ability to plug the system into a wired network. Bluetooth allows short range wireless connections(30 to 50 feet) with compatible devices like headsets, printers and cameras. Wifi a/b/g/n describes compatibility with the Wifi standard for wireless networking, of which n is the latest version. A few mobile systems, some tablets and all smartphones are equipped to connect to wireless broadband cellular networks, as well.

Security: Password-restricted access is a routine feature of the operating system but must be activated in order to be effective. Some mobile solutions now have biometric fingerprint readers, iris, face recognition software to verify the user before enabling access the system.

Some Computer Terminology

AIO: For all-in-one, a self contained desktop system with all components in the same housing as the monitor.

i3, i5, i7: Types of Intel multi-core processors manufactured.Within each type the speed and number of cores can vary.

Gigabit Ethernet: A port often found on PCs for high speed transmission of data over wired networks.

LED, LED -backlit display: Used interchangeably by manufacturers, they describe a screen technology for enhanced image quality on LCD displays

SSD: For solid state drive, a type of computer hard drive also referred to as flash drives. SSDs store files and data on integrated circuits, have no moving parts and use less battery power than conventional hard drives.

Thunderbolt: The latest high speed input/output port for connecting peripherals to a computer.

WiDi: For Wireless Display, an Intel technology built into some of its processors for wireless sharing of content between a notebook or desktop computer and a compatible monitor or display.

Some considerations when buying

User comfort should rank high when buying a mobile computer. With desktop systems you have a pretty good idea of what the user experience will be like, but with a mobile computer, comfort and convenience can be sacrificed for size.

Therefore it's advisable to get some hands on experience with several models before buying.

Keyboards and Keypads may be too small for some hands. Some "desktop replacement notebooks" may be more computer, in sheer bulk, than you want to haul everywhere.

Screen size can be a determining factor in the overall size of a notebook as well as its power requirements. In addition, the screen resolution and brightness will determine how easy it is to use in a variety of lighting situations.

Mobile computers can be surprisingly fragile when bumped or dropped. Therefore take the durability of the case or housing into consideration. The case is your best protection against damage.

The warranty typically runs 12 months on parts and labor. If you accept your mobile hardware should serve from two to three years, you want assurance it will last that long, or be quickly replaced or repaired if it doesn't. An extended warranty which adds a year or more to that basic plan may be worth the investment. Better yet, are the "no questions asked" plans from some vendors which guarantee repair or replacement during a specified period, no matter what the cause.

Battery life will ultimately determine how much productive use you get from the computer, wherever you roam. Advances in power technology make it possible to run a notebook for as long as eight hours between recharges, but that's the exception. Mobile professionals should carry a back up battery pack, so check the cost.

Sources

It's always best to try before buying, as the design of any computing solution, the style and type of keypad, all impact user experience. Electronics superstores, warehouse clubs, discounters, the vanishing computer store are all good places to see what's available.

Web-based retailers, including the online stores operated by nearly all manufacturers, can be a best source for a great price on a customized PC, or significant savings on a refurbished model. Customer support can also step you through the process of building a system to your needs.

For smartphones, your search should start with the site or store of your present cellular service provider. Specific models are only compatible with some networks, and your choice will be limited to what will work on the networks serving your market area.

Before buying anything from unfamiliar online retailers, check their background A quick search of that retailer by name should uncover any problems or lingering complaint other consumers have experienced.

To Learn More

The web is your best source for educating yourself about the latest computer specs and models. Pricewatch provides information on the pricing trends. websites maintained by specialty magazines like Computer Shopper provide detailed reviews and recommendations. Also, browse the user reviews posted on the sites of web-based retailers and sites like Epinions. They can be a best source of insight into the quality of the system, and how satisfied buyers are with the investment.

Also, please check the RealTechTools.com sections for Mobile Computing and Smartphones.

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Digital Cameras:

The Visual Communications Link

Digital imaging has revolutionized photography, empowering a new form of visual communications.

Whether showcasing your latest products, selling homes or cars, or documenting claims, you can send an image over to a peer, client or potential customer as quickly as it takes to compose an email message. You may also use images captured digitally to promote business, products or services online; to build a visual database of clients or products; to show and share whatever it is the home office or client needs to see.

The biggest change in this category: the continually improving imaging capabilities of smartphones. If you have casual need for work related prints or video, if the images aren't destined for print, you may find all the camera/camcorder you need in your smartphone.

Digital Imaging in RealEstate

Ever since virtual tours first caught on, a digital camera has been a requisite tool for real estate marketing. Now, with video tours increasingly popular, you're best served with a camera that does double duty as a camcorder.

Fortunately, that's now standard. For photos and video tours , real estate agents are producing impressive results, even with some of today's most basic cameras. Since there's no associated processing costs, they're taking as many shots of homes, inside and out, to get the right pictures, recording an hour of video for that two minute tour.

Today's cameras, and imaging software, can be very forgiving. From basic compacts to sophisticated digital SLRs, real estate professionals are using every conceivable camera to promote listings, exploring the capabilities of new concept cameras in smartphones and tablets.

Value

First, there's the immediacy: an image captured digitally is available as soon as the shutter clicks. You can share and view that image in ways just not feasible when a photo required paper. You can print a digital image, but also view it on camera, computer or TV monitor; post it to the web, or distribute it around the world by email or text.

Digital imaging has also eliminated ongoing costs from the photographic process. Once the camera and memory card are paid for, you can shoot away, without the need to pay for film processing and printing to see or share your pictures. This encourages you to take more and better pictures, redoing a shot over and over if necessary until you've captured that perfect picture.

A digital camera is one of those rare products which pays for itself, literally, in savings over the "old way" of doing things.

But it's the sharing of images where the advantages of digital imaging really shine. With a digital camera and a web connection, one can always get a picture to whoever needs to see it, ASAP. Real estate professionals can show off a new listing to potential buyers as soon as it becomes available. With the same ease, a salesman in the field can request and receive a photo to share of new products in the warehouse, as soon as they are received. Or, team members in different locations can review an image simultaneously and collaborate on improvements in the look or design of a new product or advertising display.

Use your imagination: digital cameras empower all manner of visual communications.

Solutions

A digital camera isn't the only way to get images onto your computer and the web, but it's still the fastest and most convenient. For instance, you can still have printed photos converted to a digital format by a photo finishing center. Or, with a desktop scanner, you can create digital image files of your photo prints, slides and negatives.

But for convenience, savings and visual communications today and tomorrow, most still need a digital camera.

There are several different types of digital cameras, some more specialized to a specific task than others. The least sophisticated, and most specialized of these are the "webcams" now built into tablets, smartphones and some computers, or sold as peripherals. These were developed to allow users to transmit photos or video, with live audio, over the web. Webcams can also be used to take still images, but the quality lags behind digital still cameras. So, the primary uses in business are for video chats and video conferencing. It's a realization of the "videophone" long promised and finally delivered by combining a camera, live video streaming and the web.

True digital cameras are photographic solutions, and may also be used to capture video. Choices for mobile professionals can be divided into three broad product groups: Cameraphones, in which the digital camera is included as a feature of a multifunction mobile phone handset; compact cameras with a self-contained lens; and digital SLRs, in which the camera body and lens are separate components of a photographic system.Between the compacts and d-SLRs are a class of bridge cameras, with compact bodies which also accept accessory lenses.

As the imaging features of cameraphones improve, many users can now realistically ask if the phone is all the camera they need. Ultra compact and built into hardware mobile professionals already carry, they eliminate the need for one more piece of equipment.

However, they do not yet rival dedicated cameras in optics, creative options and print quality. They may be best considered as a solution for "good enough" when the goal is to capture, send and share an image as quickly as possible or for images destined for the web. Their features will continually improve to the point where they are a viable alternative to some cameras. And, their performance can be improved with snap-on lenses and other accessories now available for the most popular smartphones.

Compact digital cameras are the most popular class, with an abundant selection of models and styles. Prices for a good camera start in the $100 range, with the most expensive compacts still coming in under $500. The size, design and video record capabilities of a compact can all impact price, too. The one feature common to all is a self-contained lens with zoom capability.

For most mobile business users, a compact is a solid choice. Their size makes it easy to carry around, and they take pictures that will serve most business applications, unless there's a need to produce poster-sized prints. Experienced photographers may find their features somewhat limited, however, and require the creative control only found in more expensive d-SLRs.

As already stated, a digital SLR is a camera and lens system. Since users can easily swap out lenses they have more choices when taking pictures. Most of these cameras include automatic settings. These make the d-SLR as easy to use as a compact, but the user also has the option of manually setting camera controls. Accessories like an external flash, shutter release cable or highly specialized lenses and lens filters also make the d-SLR system a more versatile imaging solution.

That could change in years ahead, however. One noteworthy developments in digital imaging over the past few years was introduction of the Lytro camera from the company of the same name. Unconventional in design and how it operates, it's built around proprietary technology which lets the user adjust focus and change the depth of field after an image is captured. As the technology finds its way into other cameras it could give all users the creative options which once required a d-SLR and assortment of lenses.

In recent years, there has been a trend to make all digital cameras more than a simple still camera by adding video record capabilities. HD digital video capture at 720 or the higher 1080p standard, is now a common feature in cameraphones, compacts and digital SLRs.

For those who have a business need for stills and motion footage, the video record capabilities of the camera should figure in your purchase decision. Only a few cameras allow use of the camera's optical zoom lens while in the video mode, however. On most, only digital zoom is available. Should you require close-ups of your subjects, zoom should matter, as well.

You Should Know:

All digital cameras take good pictures.

What you can do with those pictures, and the choices you have when clicking the shutter, depend on the camera's mix of features.

The one feature you're likely to hear first when shopping for a camera is its Megapixel(MP) rating, expressed as something like 10MP. It describes the camera's ability to capture individual bits of image information, expressed in the millions of pixels. The larger that number the sharper, more detailed the image.

For everyday image sharing, display online and standard sized prints, all you really need is a 3MP camera. Nevertheless, you'll see and hear much higher megapixel ratings quoted as a selling point of the latest digital cameras. Unless you require poster sized prints of your images, don't let MP rating alone guide your search. Today 10MP seems the minimum of a dedicated camera; any camera rated 10MP or better should serve all your needs well.

More important than resolution is the camera lens and optics, as they determine just what types of pictures you can capture. The optical zoom, expressed as a number like 5X, tells you how much you can zoom in on and enlarge your subject in the picture. The higher the zoom factor the more versatile the camera. Within compacts, there's a sub category of ultra-zoom models with lenses offering 20X zoom or better

Digital zoom, expressed the same way — 4X digital zoom — is a software function. The camera's processor enlarges the image, and fills in the spaces between pixels with what it "think" should be there. Pictures taken with digital zoom tend not to be as sharp or detailed as those captured with a comparably rated optical zoom lens.

For insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and others who need to include a large subject or view in a single frame, the type of lens can be critical. These professionals should look for a wide-angle lens, described as "equivalent to a 28mm lens on a film camera," or lower. With a wide-angle lens,the photographer can stand close enough to capture all the details of a wide subject or scene in one detailed picture. At the other end of the spectrum are telephoto or powerful zoom lenses.

Another thing buyers often overlook, especially when shopping online, is the importance of the camera's body and design. This is especially important with compacts, as some cameras are too small for large hands. So, it's a good idea to actually try the camera before buying.

Digital cameras, like everything, else a mobile professional depends on, can take a beating in the field. Durability should be a concern. Look for models with a metal body, and get a case to protect the camera and lens.

Standard Features/Basics

With that understanding, let's review some of the features you'll be evaluating as you compare cameras.

Resolution: All digital cameras rely on an image sensor or light sensitive chip to capture image. The amount of image information that sensor can gather, measured in megapixels(millions of pixels)or MP, describes the camera's image resolution. The higher the number, the more information in each image, and the larger the file.

Megapixel rating is a selling point, but you don't necessarily need the highest MP camera. For images destined for the web, 3MP is actually sufficient; for standard-sized prints and enlargements, 6MP willdo, but you'll find much higher MP ratings on the newest models.

Lens: There are two lens systems: cameras with a fixed, or built-in lens; and high end cameras, also called digital SLRs, which take removable lenses. You can purchase a variety of lenses for d-SLRs, but individual lenses can cost as much as compact camera.

Digital camera lenses are often described in terms like "equivalent to a 55mm lens on a 35Mm camera." A lens in the range of 50-55mm will capture images to comparable to how you see. A 28mm lens, or lower, would be a wide angle lens. With a zoom or telephoto lens, equivalent to 80mm or better, the subject appears to be closer than it actually is.

With a fixed-focus lens, found on inexpensive cameras and webcams, everything in the picture is in sharp view, and only digital zoom is available.

An autofocus lens automatically brings the subject into focus when taking a picture. With manual focus, the user twists the lens to focus. More expensive compacts and digital-SLRs let users choose between the automatic and manual mode.

Zoom: Digital camera specifications usually cite both an optical zoom and digital zoom ratings, each expressed as a number like 5X.

Optical zoom describes the actual ability of the lens elements to bring an object closer. It's what the lens sees. Digital zoom is a software function: software inside the camera takes the image information from the image sensor, enlarges it, then fills in the space for an image that appears have been taken closer than it actually was.

Digital and optical zoom can be combined, for a much higher rating. For instance, a camera with 10X optical zoom and 4X digital zoom provides a total 40X zoom.

Viewfinder: The viewfinder is where you look to frame a picture. Film cameras had a "through the lens" viewfinder. Through it you saw your subject as as it appeared through the camera lens. On most digital cameras, the LCD monitor now serves the same function. The camera displays on screen the subject as it will be captured.

LCD: The LCD screen monitor serves as the viewfinder; displays images after they are captured; allows you to review, edit and organize your pictures; and is where users can review and change camera settings. LCD screen size and brightness are key points points of evaluation. More models now feature touch-screens which can be used to adjust camera settings, view and edit photos and video in-camera.

Settings and Controls: Digital cameras are all automatic, to a point. In addition to the "automatic" mode, most cameras have several "scene" settings. The user selects and sets these to more precisely adjust the camera for specific shooting situations such as a bright sunny day, night scenes, or shooting a dark subject against a bright background. Camera controls also govern picture resolution, aspect ratio, file format, macro mode for extreme close-ups, white balance, exposure, etc.

Some cameras have location sensors built in and be set to "geo-tag" photos with information on where each picture is taken . That information can later be used to organize photos by location on a map.

Flash: The standard built in-flash is good enough for subjects within a few feet of the lens. Be aware of its limited range. If you regularly photograph night scenes, or interior rooms, consider additional lighting or a camera which has a hot shoe for an auxiliary flash. That may point you to a d-SLR.

Cards, Cables and Batteries: Digital photos are saved to either internal memory or removable flash media. The digital equivalent of film, "flash" cards are removable and reusable. The Secure Digital card, and its mini and micro variants, is currently the most popular format.

To see or print what's on the card, you need a computer with a compatible card reader. Slip the card in the reader, and your files are ready for view. USB or FireWire cables, usually included with the camera, allow you to transport images directly from camera to PC. A few models support Wifi or Bluetooth, so you can transfer images via a wireless connection.

Battery life depends on the type of battery used as well as how you manage the camera. A monitor always on, constant use of flash will quickly drain any battery, and reduce the number of pictures you can take. The rechargeable battery pack now included with many cameras is a convenience. Or, look for a models which take standard AA batteries.

No matter what the battery type, buy and carry a back-up power pack.

Digital Camera Glossary

Aspect Ratio: The relation of the width of an image to its height, expressed as a number like 4:3 or 16:19.

Image Sensor: The light sensitive chip which "sees" and captures picture information. Digital cameras us CCD or CMOS image sensors.

JPEG, RAW, TIFF: File formats used to record images. JPEG, which compresses or reduced the file size, is most widely used. A TIFF file is slightly compressed, while a RAW file contains all the information seen by the image sensor.

Lens Converter, or Conversion Lens: An adapter which fits over the lens of some compact cameras to extend capabilities for wide angle or telephoto photography.

PictBridge: A standard for direct printing between compatible cameras and printers without a computer.

Sources

Digital cameras are available online, in retail stores and directly from many manufacturers. Since design and ergonomics are so critical to the practical enjoyment of a camera, a retail store is likely the best place for most users to buy a digital camera. There you'll get hands-on experience with the camera, can sample its operation and features, and decide which is the best fit for your needs, budget and preferences.

At camera and electronics specialty stores you can usually find the sales assistance to help you choose the best model for your needs, and a source you can turn to with questions on its operation.

Frequently, vendors introduce new models while older models are still in distribution channelsYou'll find your best deals on such cameras, as retailers try to sell them off out to make way for the new.

If you do decide to buy online, thoroughly check your source before making your purchase. The best price online is not always your best deal from a reputable vendor.

To Learn More

You can do much of your preliminary research online, narrow your election and then head to stores for a hands-on look. If you like a particular brand the vendors website is usually be your best source for look at all its current models, and price breaks or refurbished models.

There are many sites and publications dedicated to digital cameras. At a site like Digital Photography Review you can read reviews, useful "how to" articles and reports on the latest trends.

Online sellers often allow users to post reviews of products they've purchased.  Amazon's camera store is a comprehensive resource for digital camera buyers. Sites like this, which combine camera information with user reviews, can be some of your best sources for insight into what buyers liked or didn't like about a particular camera, and any problems they may have encountered with that model.

At the RealTechTools.com section for  Digital Imaging, you'll find additional links to online resources.

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GPS and Navigation

Systems and Service

How do I get there?

If you've ever grappled with that question as you fumbled with maps or an atlas, you'll love GPS-based navigation. Using signals from a network of satellites in orbit around the earth, a GPS receiver, navigation services or an app will pinpoint your location and continually track it. Combine that information with a map database, and the navigation system can serve up detailed, point-to-point directions to your destination, monitor your progress there, and guide you back on track should you miss a turn or wander off course.

Navigation Solutions In Real Estate

No matter how well you know your market area, you will benefit from a GPS system or navigation services.

First of all they are time savers, literally adding hours to your week with efficient point-to-point directions. A navigation system will help you plan and organize a tour of several possible homes in the most logical order, then advise you on the quickest and best route to a new listing as soon as you enter it's address.

What's more, the information these systems provide about sites, attractions and stores in the area make you the instant expert on everything from area schools to shopping. You can even use these systems to quickly calculate commute times, if that matters to the interested buyer.

Value

At first glance, GPS seems all about convenience: Directions are always available, on request.

When you're unfamiliar with an area, a personal or vehicle navigation solution will direct you where you want to go. If you're looking for the fasted reroute around traffic, GPS-based wireless services can provide that too. Or, when planning a day's itinerary with several stops, enter the addresses and the a GPS system will figure out the most efficient route, provide turn by turn directions to each destination, and automatically re-adjust those plans, should you decide to drop or add a stop.

All of this translates into the kind of efficiency which can save time and thereby boost productivity. In mobile professions like sales, repair services, home health care and real estate, GPS relieves the professional in the field from figuring out how to negotiate unfamiliar territory. Since a navigation system allows users to store addresses, the system can efficiently guide you back to any location.

You can also create a map log of your travels to show where you've been, distance between destinations, average travel speeds, time spent at each stop, etc. Such insight can help improve efficiency, boost productivity, and reduce travel expenses.

With the maps, most navigation systems also contain a database of local landmarks and points of interest. Using these, you can quickly identify area restaurants, gas stations, hotels and other landmarks and find your way there. Combine GPS-based navigation with optional wireless services, the system can also provide real time traffic alerts, with detours, to cut short your commute and add time to your day.

Choices

GPS solutions now encompass a class of hardware, as well as increasingly popular navigation services and apps. Long term, the navigation services may become the preferred means for retrieving point-to-point directions. However, some professionals will always want a dedicated GPS system with its larger screen for viewing maps, routes and the terrain

Whether it's a system or service, the accuracy of any solution depends on its ability to pinpoint your location. Once it has a lock on that, it can track your progress to your destination.

This capability is now available in handheld GPS units, "transportable" units you can move from from car to car or office, and stationary systems installed or built into some cars and trucks. A small but growing selection of multi-function hardware, including some smartphones and a few digital cameras, now have GPS capabilities built-in, as well.

The core of any GPS unit is the receiver which uses signals from orbiting satellites to continually calculate your location, the speed and direction you are traveling. It is built into a case along with other components such as a processor, control buttons, a map database, and an LCD screen which may also serve as a touch-sensitive user interface.

There are handheld GPS systems for hikers, or anyone who needs to map an area. These pocket sized units usually don't include a map database, but can record information on several locations or landmarks, as well as guide the user to a destination. They are the modern hiker's sophisticated equivalent of a compass.

Mobile professionals maybe best served with a portable or transportable navigation system you can install or remove from your car at will, or services on your phone or tablet. That way, you can take your GPS capabilities with you, as needed, whether you want to switch cars, or simply review maps or plan your itinerary at your desk. A mounting bracket, so the unit can be installed with minimal signal interference, is included as part of the package.

Systems installed in your car, or purchased with the vehicle as an option, are fixed in place and often integrated into the car's entertainment system. The navigation system's display may also serve as the playback screen for DVDs,. Voice prompts for directions may be delivered over the car stereo system. These in-dash systems also tend to be the most expensive with features that make them as much a mobile entertainment center as a navigation system.

In addition to hardware systems, GPS navigation assistance is now offered as an increasingly popular service for mobile cell phones and smartphones. These are bundled with your cellular services, or offered by the day or month.The major drawback to navigation services is the small size of a phone screen for displaying maps. Check with your cellular provider. Also check app stores for navigation apps for your smartphone or tablet.\

There are also computer software solutions which can also provide detailed directions These install on your computer, and come bundled with a companion GPS receiver for installation in the vehicle. They can provide as accurate guidance as a dedicated system but on a larger screen. This approach costs less, but the computer must remain on while you drive. Finally, point to point directions are always available online from services like Google Maps and Mapquest.

Core Features

Evaluation points for any GPS equipment system include the size and type of unit; screen size and resolution; user interface; how directions are provided; the amount of information in its map database; and how often that information is updated. Navigation services usually provide the latest mapping information and and a current database of points of interest.

Since GPS systems get most use in a car, consider how you prefer the system be installed or mounted. A fixed system, permanently installed in the dash of a car, is fine if you foresee no need to remove it. This is an option with new cars today, and an aftermarket in dash system can also be installed by the same companies which install car audio systems.

For mobile professionals, the portable navigation system may be the more practical buy. You can easily install or remove it from your car. Carry or transport the system as needed, and still tap its many features. With such portable or "transportable" systems, the GPS receiver has to be positioned in such away that it continually receives satellite signals without interfering with driving or your view.

Regardless of the type of system you choose, street map, local landmarks, addresses and area information will all be displayed on the unit's LCD screen. The display can show where you are on a map, upcoming turns and landmarks, and nearby points of interest. Some systems now feature a "street view" 3D rendering of the landscape as a visual aid when driving.

For all of these reasons, the screen should be evaluated as one of the key features of any navigation system. The larger and brighter it is, the easier it will be to make entries, read text prompts and maps, and recognize your surroundings

Depending on cost and features of the system, you may be able to retrieve directions in one or more ways: entering an address by typing, touching screen icons, or simply stating your intended destination out loud. In its simplest form, the GPS system responds to requests for directions with a set of turn-by-turn directions displayed on the screen.

Better systems respond to spoken commands and provide directions as voice prompts. With a voice-activated system, you announce your destination and the system takes care of the rest. Depending on model, you may also request information on and directions to area points of interest.

In systems that provide directions as "voice prompts," a synthesized voice, transmitted from the unit or through the car's stereo system, alerts the driver to upcoming landmarks, and advises when to turn.

Any navigation system is only as accurate as the the information in its map database. You want to know how often maps are updated and how you can get that information into your navigation system. Usually these updates are available for a free download. The frequency of map updates is especially important for those who work in an area undergoing significant development with new streets and street names. One advantage of GPS navigation services is subscribers always have access to the most current map database.

Some systems are compatible with optional navigation services, usually offered on a subscription basis. The most popular, and most practical for mobile professionals, may be real time traffic alerts. If you drive in a congested city, these services deliver continuous traffic reports, based on your planned commute, with suggestions of alternate routes and detours to avoid delays.

Questions

Where will you rely on the navigation system? Make sure the the map database is comprehensive and current for that area, and updated to reflect the latest development, new subdivisions or new street names.

If you also plan to use the GPS system as a travel and touring aid, how complete are the points of interests included with the maps? The more points of interests, the more useful the system will be, whether you're looking for a place to eat, gas for your car, or just want ideas on where to take a break from the road.

Is a system with voice recognition and voice prompts worth the expense? You will pay more, but these are safety conveniences well worth having.

Is the screen large enough? No matter how you get your directions, you will glance at the screen from time to time. The bigger, brighter than screen the better.

What else would you like from your navigation system? Some have evolved into car entertainment centers, providing mp3 audio and DVD video playback. You'll pay top dollar for that versatility.

Do you really require a dedicated navigation system? With cellular navigation services and apps for smartphones and tablets you may have all the direction assistance you need. If you carry one of these devices, see what's available and try it before buying a dedicated system.

GPS Terms

POI: Points of Interest, the schools, stores, restaurants, gas stations, parks, etc., included in a navigation system's database.

Route: A set of directions, based on starting point or present location, to one or more destinations or waypoints.

Triangulation: A method of pinpointing a location, based on its relation to three fixed reference points.

Waypoint: Locations or landmarks stored in the GPS unit. These can be reference points you want to return to later or an actual destination.

Sources

Navigation systems are sold directly to consumers by most major manufacturers, and are widely available in consumer electronics stores, mass merchandisers, wholesale clubs, auto supply stores and a host of online retailers. Auto dealers now offer a navigation system as a standard option on new vehicles.

With the exception of large electronics stores and online retailers, the selection at most of these sources will be limited to a few models from a small share of all brands in this category. Therefore, investigate what's available online and in stores for an idea of all your options.

If you only have occasional need for a navigation system, or only need basic navigation system without the bells and whistles, start your search with the navigation services available through your cellular services provider. Remember, though, any monthly fee may seem a more affordable up front, but becomes an ongoing expense Over time,it can cost as much or more than a dedicated navigation system.

To Learn More

To learn more about GPS technology, what's currently available, search online. As with other mobile technologies, valuable resources include manufacturer and vendor websites, sites or retailers selling these products, and customer reviews of various systems posted online.

For a better understanding of the technology behind GPS, you can start with the tutorials available from equipment maker Garmin

or this article on the website  How Stuff Works. CNET combines information on technology with reviews and recommendations of some of the latest systems.

Additional information on navigation systems can be found in the  GPS/Navigation section of the RealTechTool.com website,

For any navigation system you're considering using in your car, you should actually see the system, and evaluate its screen size and quality, control functions, and how it will fit into your car, before buying.

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Mobile Data

The more dependent you are on any combination of hardware, the greater your need for data back up and storage.

A back-up of your files and applications, regularly updated and saved, is always your best protection against loss of hardware, ensuring you'll be up and running again with minimal disruption. When you need to share or move files from one device to another — phone to computer, for example — you can connect devices by cable or Bluetooth, or simply swap files via some form of portable storage media

Mobile data solutions come in all shapes in sizes. There are even services and software utilities to relieve you of direct responsibility for making those copies. It's all good, it all works, provided you think things through and embrace one or more.

And it's now available through a variety of services in the cloud, some offering free storage, others charging a monthly fee.

Mobile Data In Real Estate

Real estate professionals typically work in more than one location, with several different devices, splitting your day between your office, and hours spent with clients. Mobile data solutions bring peace of mind that your files are safely backed up. These products and services ensure easy access to them, whatever device you are on.

Traditionally,this required some mix of mobile data storage solutions: portable hard drives, CDs or DVDs, thumb drives. As many are starting to discover, an alternative waits in cloud services for automatic back-ups and instant access to the same information regardless of where you are, whatever device you are on.

Value

It's given: you'll lose some files due to a computer crash, inadvertent erasure or hardware failure. So why run the risk of a total loss? Back up your files and your always protected.

And the same solutions which make it so easy to copy files, also make it possible to move files from one device to another with relative ease. Some pocket-sized hard drives may require software drivers, but flash drives, media cards and optical disks do not. Swapping files can be as simple as inserting that card, drive or disk, and dragging and dropping files.

Any of these solutions are also more affordable than ever, with memory capacities improving all the time as prices fall. And, for many portable storage solution, there's now a companion cloud service for online storage and back-up of files.

Whatever your requirements for a mobile data solutions, answers are affordable and readily available.

Making the Connection

The most important question to ask before investing in any storage system: Will it work with my hardware. USB is the standard interface for hard drives and flash drives, and card readers. If your system has the latest USB ports, a FireWire or IEEE1304 port, or newer Thunderbolt port, it will empower faster sharing of data but you'll also need a specific type of cable connector and drive

One recent trend has been to do away with cables entirely in favor of wireless data back-up via Bluetooth or WiFi. The type of wireless connection determines how far the storage device needs to be to the hardware. Within 50 feet, Bluetooth will serve. For a greater range of freedom, WiFi is recommended.

Flash media requires either a USB port or a compatible card reader. Hardware equipped with multi-card readers can read from the most popular flash media formats. For hardware without a built-in card slot, there are card reader peripherals. Insert your card in the reader's slot, hook it up via a USB port and you can open or copy files.

Cloud services require only a Web connection and a web browser, and provide the tools to guide you through the process of uploading your files.

Choices

Portable Hard Drives: Today's portable hard drives truly live up to that label.

At the high end are drives with capacity to store 1 terabyte of data— that's 1000 gigabytes of data— in something small enough to slip into your pocket. There's an abundance of very affordable drives available with mere hundreds of gigabytes of storage. For extremely large files of things like video, the speed of the drive can be as important as its storage capacity.

The latest advance in storage solutions: solid state hard drives(SSDs). Solid state drives have no moving parts. They require less power and are completely quiet when operating. This makes them an appealing mobile data storage solution. Compared to a traditional hard drive, the cost per gigabyte of storage space can be higher.

With any external or removable drive, the included software should be considered in your evaluation. Many ship with programs that allow the user to schedule automatic file backs at set intervals, relieving you of the responsibility of copying your files.

Flash Drives: Also called thumb drives or USB drives, a flash drive is simply a flash memory chip with a USB interface. They are truly plug and play, require no software driver and work with any hardware with a USB input port. Capacities range from a few megabytes to several gigabytes.

Key-sized, they are the ultimate convenience for mobile computing: an inexpensive, ultra compact solution for back-ups or moving files from system to another. Design and security features vary and directly impact price. No matter what other mobile storage solutions you choose, investing in a couple of these is highly recommended.

Media Cards: Another form of flash media can be found in the variety of flash media cards. In digital cameras, they serve as the "film" for capturing images. On cellphones and smartphones, they provide removable memory for storing applications, pictures or files. Inserted in computers with a card memory reader, their contents are instantly available for viewing or copying. In fact, they can also serve as an alternative form of removable storage.

The trend here,too, is to increased capacity at ever lower price points. Formats matter, especially if you intend to use the flash card to move or share files between devices. The original CompactFlash has been superseded by SD(Secure Digital) cards as the dominant format. For phones, popular variants on the Secure Digital format include mini and micro SD cards. In addition to these, some equipment manufacturers have tried to promote proprietary flash cards, such as Sony's MemorySticks.

Optical Discs: CD-ROMS and DVDs can be the most cost effective way to back up files and move them from one computer system to another. DVD/CD writers are now a standard feature on desktop systems. For notebooks, the DVD writer may be a step-up option. Blank discs are very inexpensive, and the storage capacity is large: 700MB on a CD, and more than 4GB on a DVD.They are a great way to move files between computers for building an inexpensive file back-up and archive.

Double Duty: As already mentioned, the flash cards used as "film" in digital cameras can also be used to store and move files from hardware to hardware. Today, just about any device which connects directly to your computer, and has it's own internal memory, can also be used to store, back up or move your files around. Your MP3 player, digital audio recorder, even a connected camera can all serve as a storage/back-up solution when nothing else is available. If you're carrying any of these, check the user's manual to learn how you can use the device as a temporary storage solution.

Cloud Storage Services: You can also save and store your files with an online storage service for free or a modest monthly fee. With cloud services, you can set up your account so your files are automatically uploaded, and available wherever you log on the web.

The catch? To use these services and retrieve your files, you must have an Internet connection. Some services offer a basic free account, but charge for for additional storage with an ongoing subscription fee, monthly or yearly. And, as with other web-based solutions, some users may not feel comfortable entrusting their files to a remote service. Finally, initial set up of these services can take some time, as all your files are uploaded to the provider's servers.

Sources

Mobile storage solutions are available wherever they sell hardware, and across the retail spectrum, on and offline. Since you're putting so much faith in these products, it's advisable to stick with reputable name brands rather than shop only for the lowest price. Inexpensive no name USB drives, for example, can fail, leaving the user with no means to retrieve files, or a hefty fee from file recovery services.

To Learn More

For USB Drives, this FAQ from the USB trade group can explain everything you need to know about this class of drives. web-based retailers, including the SuperMediaStore provide information on all your options as well as a representative selection of the latest storage products.

For information on how cloud services work and your options, you could start with Apple's iCLoud ,Microsoft's SkyDrive or Amazon's  Cloud Drive services.

Additional links on  Mobile Data/Backup can be found at RealTechTools.com

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Software

for Basic Productivity

Think of a computer as an engine.

Software is the fuel which unleashes its power, allowing it to take you where you want to go, do what you want to do. All mobile professionals rely on some combination of software applications to get through the work day, manage business and serve clients.

Here we'll look at tried and true basics, the programs most commonly used.

Basic Productivity in Real Estate

At the one level real estate require the same basic software as any career. But your needs go beyond that to also include software tools for marketing your listings, your services and keeping your name before prospects and clients.

Once you get beyond standards like a word processor or spreadsheet, the choices vary between general software, and programs developed specifically for real estate. Some of these extras include tour-building software for virtual tours; marketing solutions for flyers, brochures, listing presentations or CMAs; website design tools and enhancements for your online presence.

When considering real estate specialty software, compare it with generic versions of comparable software. Often, the specialty software was developed with your needs in mind to get you up and running as quickly as possible. Conversely, though, specialty software may not be updated as often as products for the broader market. You may not always have the advantage of the latest features.

Consider the range of programs outlined here, and in the next chapter on contact management solutions as the foundation of your computer powered career.

Value

Whatever you want to accomplish with a "computer"— desktop, notebook, smartphone or tablet — you'll be using software. Even devices you might not think of as a computer, like cell phones and digital cameras, rely on software for their features and functionality.

Some applications — apps for smartphones and tablets — may come included with your hardware, like the operating system, a web browser and your email client. Others, you'll need to purchase in the aftermarket.

Individual applications or programs serve a specific function, like word processing. Often several of these products are grouped together as a productivity suite. Basic productivity packages give users a bundle of integrated programs for such standard chores as word processing, presentations, a spreadsheet or database. Advantages to buying a suite: the individual components are designed to work together, and the bundle brings significant savings over purchasing each program individually.

Depending on your profession, you may also require some mix of specialty applications developed specifically for your career. In most cases, these cost more than "generic" or "off-the-shelf software" developed for the broadest base of users. Given the focus on the particular needs of your business for generating, organizing and managing specific information, the cost of specialty software can be reasonable.

You Should Know

All hardware comes bundled with an operating system, the software which guides its operation and determines what software it can run. Most systems also include web browser, email application, basic contact manager and word processor. Beyond that, though, there are no set standards. Some vendors may include essential software as part of the bundle, or trial versions of the software or suites most users will likely need. When purchasing a new system, before buying software, check to see what's already bundled with the system.

Beyond the operating system, and software included with the hardware, ask if you'll be better served with software programs installed on your computer, or subscribing to software as a web-based service in the cloud.

Until the last few years all software was installed on the user's PC. Purchase a program, insert the installation disk or download the program from a website, and install it on your hard drive. Once installed, there it waits, ready when needed. The records or documents you create are stored along with it, and saved to back-up disk or drive if you develop good habits.

The trend in recent years has been toward web-based applications, now commonly referred to as cloud services. With these, software is a service. The tools you need are available to you anywhere/anytime. All you need is a computer, Internet connection and web browser. No longer does your productivity depend on you having your computer with you. As long as you can log on the Internet, you can work. And, with "remote access" programs or services, you can access your primary computer or network over the web, and work with your files as if seated at your desk.

Many computer users are not yet comfortable with this model, however. Since their applications and files don't physically reside on their personal computer, they worry if their sensitive data and documents could be compromised. Then, there are price issues. Standard software carries a one time license fee. Once you purchase the program, it's yours to use.

With most cloud services, however, there's an ongoing monthly or annual subscription fee. The user can end up paying substantially more for using the software than the one-time purchase price of traditional software.

Whether you decide to use web-based applications, traditional software, or some combination of these, you will find an abundant variety of programs for your needs. When evaluating solutions, scrutinize any software's "user interface," the controls you use to run the software and features. If it's not intuitively easy, you may not use it.

Most software publishers no longer include a printed manual with their programs. Instead, documentation is included in a digital format, usually as a PDF file you can open and read with Adobe's free Acrobat Reader on your computer. If you're new to computing or that application, you my want to consider paying extra for the printed version of the manual, when available. It's still easier to flip back and forth through a book, than click back and forth between screens to try and solve a problem or issue.

Certain software also comes with tutorials and templates to help the new user get started sooner, and simplify the creative process. Tutorials educate you about the software's features and operation. They can be "wizards" which lead you step by step through using the software. Some tutorials are actually mini movies hosted online about the features and operations

Templates give you the basic format for a software document and activity which you can customize to some degree.

Word processors include templates for standard letters or marketing materials, while the templates in website building software include design themes and graphics for a multi-page website. A database or spreadsheet program may have template sets for a particular type of business or business activity, like tracking expenses.

Basics

Now, let's elaborate a bit on the essential software mobile professionals can expect to need and use. Much of this is basic info, so skim through as you wish.

Word processor: For documents, letters, reports, correspondence—any from of writing— you'll use a word processor. It transforms your computer into much more than a typewriter.

Built into nearly all word processors are tools for designing and formatting documents, checking and correcting spelling and grammar, and sharing your written documents with other applications. Microsoft Word, bundled in the Office suite, is the de facto standard in word processing. Even if you prefer some other word processing application, you want to know how to save and export your documents so Word users can read them.

Word processors include templates for all types of documents and publications, from business cards to reports. They may also allow you to export your documents as html for display on the web, or as PDF files, for viewing on any computer.

As with all software, the only way to master a word processing program is to use it and to explore its features. The most important habit you can develop is to periodically save your documents as you work. And, always back up your files when through.

Database: A database provides you with a system for storing and organizing large amounts of information. That can be any information you consider important and relevant to business.

A contact management system (see separate chapter) may be the database application most familiar to mobile professionals. Your database could just as well store information on company products and services, work orders, a mailing list, etc.

Spreadsheet: A spreadsheet is a program for organizing data, including all types of numbers, and analyzing that data. It is primarily used for accounting or financial analysis purposes.

Although some rely on a spreadsheet for financial management, personal finance software or a specialized business accounting programs are often preferred for tracking and managing finances, expenses, checking and credit card accounts.

Image editing and management: You need some way to organize pictures on your computer, and make any necessary corrections to them. Usually these features are combined in one application, either included with your computer, or bundled with your digital camera. For more sophisticated editing and archiving, there are a number of dedicated software applications, of which Adobe Photoshop is most popular.

Graphics and Desktop Publishing: Depending on your aspirations and expertise as an artist or graphic designer, you may not require dedicated software for computer graphics and desktop publishing. Word processors and website creation programs now include basic tools for creating shapes and lines and importing photo or graphics. Also included are design templates. Before buying a dedicated graphics or desktop publishing program, check the features of the standard programs you already own.

Presentations: As the name implies, presentation software is used to combine content into a presentation for a target audience or group. The presentation may be distributed as a printout, played on a monitor, or displayed on the web.

The software breaks down and simplifies the presentation building process as you create a series of slides, each devoted to a specific aspect of your message. These slides can include anything you want: explanatory text, images, graphics,supportive charts, even video and audio. You can also dress up the presentation with animated transitions or special effects. The finish product can be set to play automatically, or the presenter can manually control it and selectively choose which slides to display.

PDF reader: PDF(portable document format) is a standard developed by Adobe which retains the original look and formatting of a document for display on any computer. It has been widely adopted for sharing everything from email attachments and faxes to ebooks We. Reading a PDF requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader application. To create or edit PDFs, you'll need to purchase Acrobat Pro.

Drivers and Utilities: In addition to the programs outlined above, most users will rely on some combination of software drivers and utilities. A driver is a program which controls a specific device or peripheral, such as an external hard drive, digital camera or printer. These programs are included with the hardware, but must be installed on your system. Utilities are programs developed for a specific function, or to add limited functionality to another application.

Sources

For software, the first place to check: your hardware. See which applications you already have. If a full version isn't included, you may find trial versions which will allow you to test the software and see if it's what you want.

When you set out to buy essential software, you'll find your best buy is usually a productivity suite bundle of several integrated applications. Microsoft Office remains most popular among all users, while Apple offers the iWork suite for the Mac. Free productivity suites are also available: OpenOffice, an Office alternative available for free download in all platforms; and Google Docs, a web-based suite of applications.

For smartphones and tablets, an ever growing catalog of compatible of "apps" are available for the different platforms. Check online for your smartphone operating system.(See Smartphone and Tablet chapters)

Computer software is widely available from retailers on and offline, as well as directly from most publishers. Prices can vary,. Always check the publisher's website for information on the latest version before buying any program offered at a substantial discount.

For the most comprehensive idea of what programs are available, check the sites of such large retailers like  Amazon, CDW and NewEgg. The more aware you are of all your options the more likely you'll find that perfect application.

To Learn More

Software is regularly reviewed by computer magazines, on online sites, as well as at many retail sites. If a trial version is available, you should take advantage of it to make sure it delivers the kind of user experience you expect.

Whenever a new version appears, check the manufacturer's recommended system requirements for insight on whether you have enough computer to comfortably run that application.

Additional information on  Productivity Software is available at RealTechTools.com.

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Contact Management/CRM Solutions

Success in any field is built on personal relationships. Business comes from those you meet, referrals, or responses to your marketing efforts, and how well you convert contacts into clients. They may turn to you because they need what you sell, trust your professional judgement, or simply like your style. However the relationship begins, long term loyalty is earned by consistently demonstrating you care about clients and their business, are attuned to and responsive to their particular needs.

These are all areas where a contact management solution can help. At its core is a database of information about those you do business with, and activities related to each. With calendar functions you can use the same system for automated marketing campaigns, to remind you when it's time for follow-up calls or letters, or to gauge the response rate to advertising.

This tool can be such an aid to anyone with a large customer base, it's treated here separately from other categories of software.

Contact Management in Real Estate

For all that technology allows, real estate is still a people business. The value of services you provide is built on perceptions you know and remember your clients, and care about them and their interests. That's a lot to remember, a challenge only compounded by your success as you gain more clients.

Contact management and CRM systems provide a system for organizing and acting on information about everyone you deal with. It provides a framework and system for recording and organizing information you deem relevant. Marketing components built into these systems can schedule and implement campaigns to keep your name before past clients, or check in with prospective buyers or sellers to see how their plans are proceeding.

For all of the reasons outlined in this chapter, you should consider one of these solutions as a necessary investment, one which the more you use, the more you will benefit.

Value

The importance of contact management can be easily missed by those who don't have such a system in place. To them, contact management, at quick glance, looks like a lot of work. And it is: before you can tap its strengths you have to build a database with relevant information you enter about clients and your business relationship. The details of those individual contact records can be whatever you deem important: personal or financial information; order or project history; notes on telephone calls; an archive of email correspondence; a schedule for future communications;

Once that information is entered, it fills in the details of a picture of your business activity, always available for instant retrieval. Whatever you need to know—client's birthday or spouse's name; when you last spoke and what he or she ordered; contract renewal date— it's all just a few keystrokes or a mouse click away.

It's the combination of a database rich with client information, a calendar and database search, sort and report functions, which makes contact management such a valuable tool. It keeps you organized, on track, lets you know where business is coming from, and hopefully where it's headed. With CRM solutions(customer relationship management), contact management is a core function of a system for managing all aspects of nurturing and maintaining relationships with clients, from initial contact, through follow-up after the sale.

You Should Know

Contact management is such an essential tool, it's already built into some programs you may already use. Outlook Express and Outlook, Apple's Address Book, even the contact and calendar functions of your mobile phone, are all basic contact management systems. For some, that may be as much as you need from the category: organizing your contacts and clients by details like name, company, address and contact information.

Contact management/CRM can get as sophisticated, as you need them to be. Popular "off the shelf "software like ACT! GoldMine and Maximizer, to name a few, all give users the structure for building a contact/CRM database you can customize to your needs. These solutions provide the forms and format for managing whatever you need to know and track about your business and clients. Such programs can capture client information off web forms; establish an integrated database of records and financial activity; and provide a complete menu of pre-set and customized reports.

These capabilities are common to all dedicated contact management/CRM solutions. Individual users may discover the need to customize the software for their business model. To simplify the challenges of customizing a database, several vendors offer template sets which can be used to create a customized version of the system for a specific industry such as health care, real estate or insurance.

There are also a number of contact management/CRM solutions which have been developed for specific industries. Generally, more expensive than a generic solution, they give users a system which is already fine-tuned to that particular business. A real estate system, for instance, might be set up to capture information on a buyer's available financing, housing or neighborhood preferences.

Often such industry-specific solutions are offered as the contact management/CRM module of a much larger integrated system for managing all aspects of a business, from front office operations through back office accounting.

The other trend in this category, as with all classes of software, is a gradual shift to making these tools available as web-based solutions. There are advantages to this approach. Users need not store their contact records on any particular piece of hardware; that information is always accessible wherever they can connect to the web. Users of cloud solutions always have access to the latest versions of the tools or features offered by the publisher.

The downside of web-based solution? Well, one is psychological. Even today, many people are not yet prepared to entirely entrust their client data to a web-based service. They fear their data and records can be easily lost or compromised.

The other concern is the ongoing cost of a cloud service, compared with the one time purchase price of software. Since online services are sold on a subscription basis, with a monthly or annual fee, these solutions can cost far more over the long haul than software which carried a one time price.

Choices

Basic contact management is already included with your computer or smartphone, at little or no cost to you. The features are limited, so each individual user needs to decide how much information you need about clients, contacts and schedule to efficiently operate the business.

Off-the-shelf software applications, usually less than $300, provide a more sophisticated system for organizing and tracking clients and business. Each system is unique: sample your options, the user interface, and core management and report functions. Most vendors offer trial versions of their software. Take advantage of these before you buy.

Several of these generic solutions can be specialized with download or purchase of template sets for a particular industry. These address special record keeping and report needs to adapt the system to a business or industry standard. If you like a particular software package, find out if templates or tool are available to customize it for your business.

There are also specialized contact management/CRM solutions for professionals in careers like real estate, insurance, health care, etc. These tend to cost more, and are often available as a standalone or integrated module of a much broader business solution.

If you foresee the need to-carry contact data on more than one device — desktop and laptop or smartphone for example— make sure the system is compatible with the required mix of hardware. It's not enough that you be able to display your client records on multiple devices, however. You also wan to know you can "synch" or synchronize data between devices so you're always looking at the same information.

Of course, the other option is to manage contacts in the cloud, so you're always looking at the same records..

Features

The User Interface: it should be intuitive, so you can easily set up and add to your client database,, without requiring you learn new practices and procedures.

Record Keeping System: The system is built with individual records, one for each client or contact. You enter that information in forms. Forms and records are pre-formatted. You'll want to customize them and store as many as your business requires.

Calendar and Scheduling: With integrated calendar/scheduling features, the system can be set to remind you of an impending appointment, or when to place a follow-up call or email to a client.

Search Sort and Retrieve Functions: These allow you to organize or pull information as you deem necessary. For instance, you may want to know where clients live, by zip code; buyers of a particular product; which service contracts will soon expire.

Automated Campaigns: Integrated word processing or email modules facilitate automated marketing campaigns, sending correspondence at predetermined intervals based on type and status of the client.

Report Functions: Report functions can identify trends about clients and sales for valuable insight into your business. You want standard report functions, and the option of creating customized reports, as well.

Notes and Attachments: Notes, contracts, letters attached or linked to individual contact records deliver an instant update on when you last communicated, the content of your last letter or call to that client.

Call or email logging: These features can date stamp a record of your correspondence with clients so you always know when you last spoke.

Import/Export Capabilities: If you're switching from one Contact/CRM solution, the ability to import your data will save hours, even days, of data entry. Conversely, expect you may at some point want to use data stored in your contact database in some other application. Make sure, before buying, that will be an option.

Questions

Do you need a generic or industry specific solution? Apparent savings on off-the-shelf software can be lost in the time required to adapt that solution to your needs. Specialized software and template sets were developed with the distinct requirements of your business in mind. Take a good look at both types of solutions before making your decision

Are you better served with a cloud service or software installed on your computer? The assurance your software and records are safe on your hardware means you also have to carry it. The primary advantage of cloud services is anywhere/anytime access. These also eliminate the need to "synch" your data between two or more systems.

Can you take your data with you? If you are leaning toward a cloud solution, this should be a primary concern. You want to know if, and how, you can take your contact database with you if you move to a different employer.

Users of company-provided contact management/CRM solutions should note: some are designed so the employer retains ownership of whatever client information employees enter into the system. You may not be able to take that data with you if you leave the company.

What about back-ups? Think this through before buying. Setting up any database is a time consuming process. You don't want to enter your information more than once. With cloud services, inquire about their back-up policy. If relying on software, back up weekly at least to two storage solutions, stored in separate places.

Glossary

CSV: Comma Separated Value, a format commonly used to import/export data **.**

Fields: Individual categories of information. Fields appear as boxes of lines on forms where specific information can be entered.

Forms: A graphical layout of fields where the user can enter different categories of information

Logging: Time/date stamping and recording of a particular activity as part of a client record.

Records: A compilation of information on an individual as entered in various fields.

Relational Database: A database set up to recognize and organize data based on particular criteria, such as buyers in a given zip code who purchased a particular product.

Synchronization: The verification and updating of information so the same set is available on several devices. Also referred to as "data synch."

Sources

Contact management systems are sold directly by the publisher or service provider to the public, and software retailers. Highly specialized industry specific solutions may be available through systems integrators and value-added resellers(VARS).

Most publishers feature demonstrations of the user interface, organizational structure, and sample reports on their websites. They also offer a limited-use trial version to sample the system before buying.

The contact management system you chose can become a foundation of your business. Thoroughly investigate all options, run the sample or trial software before buying. Buyers of this software who don't take that time and effort, may end up up with a system too cumbersome or complicated to use.

To Learn More

For insight on solutions for your particular trade, check industry trade groups and business publications.Ask others in your profession what they use, what they like about it and why.

To learn about the latest products, search by contact management, CRM, contact management templates, and visit the websites of the individual publishers. Then browse the latest reviews on sites likeTopTenReviews or Compare CRM

You'll find links to additional online resources about  Contact Management/CRM solutions at RealTechTools.com

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Communications:

Unified Messaging

Every mobile professional relies on some combination of communications technologies: phone, fax, email, texting, call forwarding, voicemail, etc.

Depending on your business, you may use different contact numbers for different products or services, or encourage prospects to contact you through several email accounts.

What if you could integrate all incoming communications through a single number, and manage all your options and controls, from a single user interface?

That's the power and promise of unified messaging, available now. Everything you could want from today's communications tools, and more, in one place, at your command and convenience.

Unified Messaging

People often say the real estate agent who got their business is the first or only one to respond to their query.

In this business, any missed call could be a missed opportunity. With a unified messaging system, that won't happen.

Collectively, these software-based systems simplify management of some sophisticated new communications options. They put you in control, so callers can always reach you at your convenience, now or later. That convenience creates new responsibility: with a unified messaging system in place you no longer have any excuse, you can't apologize you missed their call or didn't get their message.

Value

With communications, you have to be all things to all people. Some clients prefer to talk by phone, others rely on email. A colleague may expect an immediate response to an instant message. One sends contracts by fax, another as PDF attachments.

All are vital links to the professional in the field.

But as you invite your contacts to use any in this expanding array of communications technologies, managing them can seem overwhelming. Your friends and family, clients and peers, and supervisors expect access, and an immediate acknowledgement or response. Just keeping up with accounts, options, and passwords — while making sure no opportunity is missed — can be a complex challenge for those always on the go.

That is, unless you've adopted a unified messaging or unified communications system. These software-based solutions give you control over how and where you are reached. Distribute one business number for incoming calls to your cell phone or landline. Receive email as voicemail, or voicemail in email.

Assign incoming numbers their own ringtone. Pre-determine who gets through, who leaves a message. Vary your voicemail message to the caller. Receive a text alert when someone dials you. Decide when you're available, at which phone, and route calls and correspondence there. When you need a break, make yourself inaccessible with confidence no call will be missed.

For all of these reasons, anyone who isn't tethered to a desk should investigate the advantages of a unified messaging solution. As the name implies, these services bring all your communications options under one umbrella, giving the subscriber centralized control over incoming and outgoing communications through a single interface.

They are a product of advances in communications technologies on several fronts, and a shift to software based communications systems. Combine that with the anywhere/anytime access of the Internet, you're in control and as reachable as you want to be.

The cost? As little as a few dollars a month.

Choices

A unified messaging system gives the subscriber a menu of integrated communications services. You can cherry pick only those services you intend to use, or adopt one system for all your communications needs. If you rely on features like voice mail, call waiting and call forwarding, you've already been using a software based phone system. A unified messaging system gives you the same level of control over today's complete range of communications tools.

These systems are sold in several ways. In an office setting, the software is usually bundled with hardware that makes up the office telephone network. In a home office, these options might be offered through the landline provider. For the mobile professional, cellular service providers now offer unified messaging services.

There are also a number of web-based unified communications vendors. Such providers—Google Voice may be best known — use VoIP(voice over Internet protocol) technology to carry calls. The services allow subscribers to control all settings, manage calls, review and respond to messages of any type, through a browser based interface. Connect to the web, log on your account, and all your communications options are there on your control "dashboard."

Not convinced of the value? Consider all a unified communications solution can entail.

Features

Single Number: Promote and distribute a single number for all your communications needs. Or, have several numbers routed to the same call control center.

Incoming Call Management: Block certain numbers, route some directly to you, others to voicemail. Use multiple messages on multiple mailboxes, stipulate calls originating from certain numbers are always forwarded to you.

Find me Follow-me: When traveling, set the system to forward calls to a successive series of numbers until the caller successfully reaches you.

Electronic faxing: Convert incoming/outgoing faxes to PDFs, received as email attachments.

Messaging: Manage, send and receive texts and email from the same account.

Conversion: Send voice mail messages as audio files attached to email. Convert email, text messages, voicemail and caller ID numbers to synthesized speech, delivered as a phone call.

Voicemail: Program the system to route some calls directly to voice mail. Receive a text alert or phone prompt, with caller ID, whenever someone leaves a message, Review, save, forward or delete messages by phone or web connection.

Custom Mailboxes: Assign a mailbox and customized message to incoming calls, based on caller number or number dialed.

Conferencing: Multiple party conversations from a single phone. For virtual meetings or team collaboration, video conferencing may be an option.

Security: Password authorization for user access, and encryption of transmitted documents and messages.

Savings: web-based solutions, using VoIP, allow for long distance and unlimited calling plans at significant savings over landlines and cellular service contracts.

Questions

Local or toll free phone number? Either can have promotional advantages. A toll free number is always an inducement to call. Use local numbers where you do business but have calls routed to your office, wherever it's located.

Will you take all incoming calls yourself, or do you want a live attendant to act as your receptionist? Some plans offer the option of having a live attendant answer your calls, taking messages and routing calls as your receptionist.

Can you set the service to answer all your phones? Since you likely rely on a cell phone, landline and fax machine, you want to know the system can handle incoming calls for all your lines.

What are the limits? You want to know how many phone lines, voicemail box email accounts, etc, the service provides,and what fees will be incurred to expand the capabilities of the system.

Costs? These solutions are very affordable, but the base price can be the starting point if you want all options. Thoroughly evaluate the program, features and fees.

In Case of Emergency? There's one significant drawback to cell and web-based phone service all users should recognize: emergency services can't always identify the caller's location. Investigate this before entrusting all your phone options to one provider. Have an emergency call plan in place, just in case.

Sources

Satisfied with your present landline or cellular provider? Start there. Inquire about availability of unified messaging/communications services, and fees. All interested should also investigate web-based options as a reference point for comparing program features and prices.

To Learn More

Vendors of web-based services all provide guides to these services and how they work. Check the sites of companies like Onebox, RingCentral

and VoiceConnect.or google "unified messaging" and "unified communications" to find out about the latest options in this evolving class of communications services.

RealTechTools.com has a page with links for more information about  Unified Messaging and Communications.

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Security Solutions

for You, Your Clients and Data

Protecting hardware and data should be a primary concern for anyone who relies on a computer or phone; routinely stores personal or financial data about you or your clients there, or works with information stored in a database.

Security is not just about taking measures to prevent theft. It also entails protecting data resources from unauthorized users, and backing up information so, if the worst should happen, you can quickly recover from the loss of hardware or files it contains.

Security In Real Estate

There's three areas where security should concern all real estate professionals: the hardware you use and the and the information resources they hold; the sensitive personal and financial information entrusted to you by clients; and your personal safety as someone who often meets with strangers in unfamiliar places.

Security in real estate is as much about products as best practices. Its the products and services you buy, the steps you take which will protect you. You owe it to yourself and your clients to make security a priority, an overarching concern ever in mind.

It requires a strategy, and some mix of the many products discussed here.

Value

Developing a security strategy, and implementing it, is just common sense. Any mobile professional who works in the field, and connects to the web, is continually at risk for theft of hardware, and loss, theft or compromise of sensitive data.

One need only monitor the news to know identity theft is on the rise. In fact, stolen hardware may be worth far more for the information it contains, than for the value of the equipment itself.

A well-conceived plan should identify and address potential vulnerabilities. First think in terms of the theft of your hardware itself. A notebook or smartphone left unattended is an invitation to thieves and unauthorized users. Sensitive files can be copied within a minute to a USB flash drive.

Working in public places, tapping away at your keyboard or connecting to a wireless network, always entails risks. Prying eyes could be peering over your shoulder, eavesdroppers monitoring or capturing your transmissions in a mobile "hot spot."

Wherever you connect to the web consider yourself a potential target of hackers intent on corrupting your system with all manner of malware: viruses, worms, trojans, adware and spyware.

Finally, hardware wears out over time, or it can be lost or damaged. If your information is lost with it, you could find yourself temporarily out of business as you scrap to catch up and recreate your data resources.

For all of these reasons, security should be a top concern, for your good, and the good of your clients.

Trends

There's good news: in every scenario outlined above, an appropriate response is readily available. The bad news: thieves and hackers never lack for ingenuity. Every advance in computer security poses a challenge eventually met.

So, security should be an ongoing concern, requiring you periodically re-visit all you're doing to decide what else you can do to protect your interests.

Deciding on a security plan, and which measures should be in place, requires a self-assessment: how and where you work, and identifying potential vulnerabilities in each situation.

Then, act on that insight by developing sensible "best" practices and investing in protective measures to minimize your risks

The threats will never completely disappear, but by taking proactive responsibility for protecting your hardware and data resources, the risks can be easily managed and minimized.

Vulnerabilities

So what does that self-assessment entail?

It begins with an evaluation of all you could lose if your computer or phone were stolen or the information it contains fell into the wrong hands.

Obviously you'll be out the cost of the hardware itself, and unless you have insurance to cover against theft or damage, you'll have to pay for a replacement product. But what about the time and cost involved in replacing data, or explaining to clients their sensitive information has been compromised by your neglect?

If you're like most mobile professionals, your computer is a continually updated archive of your professional life. It holds all the documents you compose, contracts and forms, correspondence, incoming and outgoing email, financial data and reports, and the variety of documentation you may require in your work, whatever your trade.

Add to that all the information you store about your contacts and clients, friends and family. Depending on your career, much of that may be highly sensitive personal or financial information. If it was compromised through your neglect, your professional reputation could suffer and you could be held liable for losses your client or contact experiences.

Security is an area where you should take the initiative to protect yourself, rather than wait to react to a theft or compromised data. The foundation of that strategy should be to regularly back up your data, and keep at least two copies of essential files and applications in two separate locations. Nothing will help you recover from loss of hardware or data as well as that back-up.

With that commitment, we can explore other issues.

Now think of how you work in the field, share and send information. Whenever, wherever you connect to the Internet, consider yourself a potential target of hackers. Their self-appointed mission in life is to devise and develop all forms of malicious programs to infect your PC, steal your data, monitor or capture keystrokes, or hijack the system for their own purposes.

You wouldn't shout your bank account or social security number from a street corner. Using any wireless connection without adequate protective measures in place can be just as foolish.

This may seem like a lot of paranoia but the risks are real, and easily remedied through a combination of smart practices and simple hardware and software solutions. Before we turn to your options, remember security isn't your responsibility alone.

So, ask yourself: What guarantees do you have, what can you do, to ensure those you share information with are as proactive about protecting the data you provide?

Choices

What can you do to minimize odds for theft of hardware?

To prevent theft, security devices include cables, locks, alarms and computer recovery software. Cables and locks simply tether the equipment in place; an alarm alerts you when it is moved. All are relatively inexpensive and widely available.

Smart practices can be the most effective: Never leave valuable hardware unattended in public places.

With computer recovery software or apps like  Find My iPhone or  Where's My Droid?, if your hardware is stolen, you'll receive an alert whenever it connects to the Internet. That information about its location will make it easier to recover your hardware, and prosecute the thieves. Some recovery software also includes tools which allow you to remotely lock or restrict access to files and disable key functions.

What can you do to ensure no unauthorized person can access or copy your information?

The easy answer: simply render the machine useless, its contents unavailable. Password authentication limits access to system resources only to those with the right password. This protective feature must be activated, however, in the system set-up.

A biometric fingerprint reader takes this protection a step further, relying on an individual's unique fingerprint as a type of password. Swipe your finger across a tiny scanner window. If that fingerprint isn't stored and recognized, access is denied. Fingerprint readers are now built -into some systems, and available as an aftermarket plug-in USB accessory for less than $50.

With today's USB flash drives, a thief can plug the drive in the USB port to copy sensitive files within a minute. Settings which allow you to lock the ports, or require a password before files can be copied, add another measure of security.

The next level of defense: file encryption. When a file is encrypted its data is garbled and useless to anyone without the proper encryption "key." Activating that key can require user verification, so there's two levels of defense. Encrypting files stored on your removable flash drives, external hard drives or burned to disc, extends that protection. File encryption can be activated within your operating system, or software is available specifically for this purpose.

What can you do to ensure your network connections are secure?

Wherever you connect to a network, there's a need for a firewall. A firewall establishes a barrier between your computer and the network, requiring all incoming and outgoing data pass through it. It's your best protection against hackers, as the firewall continually scans incoming files for all forms of malicious code, and monitors for unauthorized attempts to access your system. Firewalls are a feature of most operating systems, but the features must be activated to provide maximum security.

Additional protection is available in software security suites, which combine a firewall with other security programs. These are typically sold on an annual subscription basis, for less than $100.

Specific suites have been developed for the various computer operating systems as well as smartphones and netbooks. Whatever the device, whatever the operating system, security protection is only as good as the latest version. Hackers relentlessly launch new versions of malware to exploit system vulnerabilities, and security publishers continually update their programs in response to the latest threats. To be fully protected, one must always be running the latest version of the software. Fortunately, software can be set to continually check for and install the latest updates automatically.

What are the risks in wireless connections, and how can you address them?

Internet hot spots can be a key to productivity for many mobile professionals. Here, as in the home or company office, file encryption and implementation of a software firewall are critical lines of defense. The firewall sets up the same protective barrier, while file encryption ensures even if data transmissions are monitored or captured, the data is useless.

WiFi routers all have security settings, but they must be activated, user passwords assigned in before they can restrict access to authorized users. Check the manual or contact manufacturer tech support for advice on security set-up

Since you cannot personally guarantee the security of any network you yourself did not set up, some mobile professionals choose not to access the web this way at all. Instead, they purchase and use an "air card" to connect to the web via their own secure cellular service account, or rely on security features bundled into wireless broadband services.

Wireless connections are often used by those who work in public places. If you regularly work out in the open, displaying sensitive information about your business or clients, you may also want to consider investing in a security screen filter. This slips over the notebook monitor, rendering whatever appears on the screen invisible to anyone who is not seated directly in front of it.

What should you do to ensure those you share information with are as proactive about security as you?

Real peace of mind requires a certain amount of due diligence. It's not enough that you implement all the solutions outlined above. You must also expect and demand those you share data with are as proactive about security. Ask what steps they've taken to restrict access to information you provide them, and what measures are in place to ensure there's no risk of infecting your files or hardware when you receive data from them.

Often people are not aware of the potential risks, and inherent liabilities, until they experience some form of security breach. Be that stickler about security, and everyone you deal with— from clients to vendors—can work with confidence their hardware and data are safe and secure.

Protect yourself as well as your hardware and data. Mobile professionals often meet with strangers in unfamiliar places. New personal safety apps are available to keep others informed where you are, who you are meeting with, and when you expect to be finished. These can be set to alert others automatically if you do not check-in with the app at a scheduled time..

Glossary

Authentication: Verifying the user as unique individual with authorized access to the hardware or data resources. Its most basic form requires a log-in name and password. Biometric authentication systems verify a user's identify and privileges with a scanner which "reads" and recognizes the user's fingerprint.

Encryption: The conversion of data or a file into a form that cannot be deciphered by those not authorized to see it. When an authorized user opens an encrypted file with the right "key," it is converted back into a recognizable form.

Firewall: A gateway between a computer and a network, including the Internet, through which all content must pass. The firewall protects system resources by continually scanning for and preventing malicious software and hacker attacks.

Malware: A continually evolving class of malicious software developed to damage or compromise resources on a computer system or network. Malware includes viruses, worms, trojans, adware, spyware and key-logging software.

Redundant back-up: Multiple copies of data, usually stored in more than one location, to ensure a copy of the data is always available.

Sources

Keep security in mind when evaluating your next hardware upgrade. Features like a biometric fingerprint reader and computer recovery software may be built into or bundled with new notebooks, netbooks even smartphones. Every operating system has built-in security features. Learn what they are and how to activate them

For cables, alarms and other anti-theft solutions, every retailer of hardware usually offers a representative selection. Companies which specialize in computer accessories often sell their products directly to the public though their websites, or refer you to their dealer network. There are also retail specialists in security products, and they can be found with an online search.

For security software suites, you can purchase through a software retailer, on or off line, or directly from the publisher. In either case, you will be connecting to the publisher's website for the critical updates. These sites also have news about the latest viruses and other forms of malware, how they are being distributed, and the damage they cause.

To Learn More

Since some security features are built into hardware or included as part of the operating system, it's best to begin there. Check user manuals for what security features are standard, and how to activate them, or contact the manufacturer directly. Useful sites for learning about security threats and responses include Microsoft's Malware Protection Center or Apple's OS X Security Configuration page.

This article on CloudTweaks.com provides  an overview of security in the cloud.

For accessories like cables and locks, or software for computer recovery, encryption or security suites, check online reviews and recommendations and visit the manufacturer websites. Although there are retailers who specialize in security products, none has them all, so it's advisable to check several sites before deciding on any particular product. The websites of makers of security products may be the only place to find a full list of all they offer, so check there. For cloud services,

Also search the web for data back up Links to additional Security resources and products can be found at RealTechTools.com

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About the Author

I've been covering consumer electronics and technology since joining the staff of Leisure Time Electronics magazine in 1982. I became a self-employed writer in 1989, and as a freelance contributor to the publications of the National Association of Realtors have written extensively about mobile technology since the early 1990s.

This is my first ebook. In addition, I've had four non-fiction books published, and my novel, Lettuce Soup, will also available in serial form as an ebook.

I welcome comments, queries and suggestions from readers at  Mobility@RealTechTools.com and will do my best to respond in reasonable time.

Natives of NYC, my wife Liz and I are proud parents of six and grandparents of four, all of whom live nearby in the scenic hill country of Middle Tennessee

As time allows, I post on technology from time to time on my blog, Real Tech Tools.

