Can PDA update a web based database?

Hello,

I am trying to develop a system for our small business. We would like our field reps to carry some sort of pda like device with them on a daily basis. The rep will record basic info from each stop in the device and upload it to a database on our office server.

Is this possible with a pda ? and how ?

Thanks

[getsurfers]

Easiest way would be to used a web based form/page and this would connect to a mysql database at your office.

Please forgive my ignorance, but are you saying that the pda would have the capability of running a web based form/page and that the pda would connect directly to a server in our office?

If so, what type of pda could do this?

[getsurfers]

The way we do it is via a GPRS or Wi-Fi connection and PDA. GPRS is via Bluetooth connection with their mobiles.

Each engineer/rep naviates to a website, where they log on. The back end DB completes info on the web page they see, and processes any info they input and stores/updates this into the DB.

Then, at the office, they use applications such as Crystal reports to analyse the data and a parts processing macro to update and create parts orders.

The hardest bit of this would be creating the DB with all the fields you need. But most web designers should be able to assist in this.

I didn't create it, but have a good idea how it works for my employer.

[Martin Laverty]

Getsurfers post above is exactly right. There are a copule of different PDA's that would be able to do this.

http://www.totalpda.co.uk/HP-iPAQ-2190-New.aspx
The 2190 is good spec and you could use bluetooth on it to connect to a mobile phone and access teh the internet via GPRS on the phone.

http://www.totalpda.co.uk/HP-iPAQ-2490--NEW.aspx
The 2490 does the same above but it also has WIFI so you could access teh server via a Wifi hotspot. This is faster and doesnt affect phone bills. This unit also has a faster processor and a desktop cradle.

You may a PDA with a phone built in as we sell those as well.

I would look at these models they are all unlocked so you can put any sim card into them.
http://www.totalpda.co.uk/i-Mate-JAM...with-WiFi.aspx

http://www.totalpda.co.uk/QTEK-S200-...with-WiFi.aspx

http://www.totalpda.co.uk/Mio-A701-PDA-GPS-Phone.aspx

All of the PDA's shown here use Windows mobile 5 so they have versions of word, excell, outlook and powerpoint on them.

Originally Posted by glenn69

Please forgive my ignorance, but are you saying that the pda would have the capability of running a web based form/page and that the pda would connect directly to a server in our office?

If so, what type of pda could do this?