Mobile computing accessories include electronic devices such as laptops, notebook PCs, tablet PCs, palmtops, personal digital assistant (PDAs), other hand held devices, networking software and access point devices. These devices have inbuilt radio signaling devices that are used to receive and transmit electronic data. They can be used in any location that is wirelessly networked using Wi-Fi or WiMax technology.
Different accessories are designed to offer varied services. Portable computing devices such as laptops and notebooks can be used to access the Internet or an organizations LAN( local area network) or WAN (wide area network) server. Hand held devices such as mobile phones can also be used to access the Internet and download electronic data.
Mobile computing accessories are used in different industries such as education and corporate training, retail, transportation and logistics, warehousing and distribution, office and public space environment, manufacturing, healthcare and hospitality. They are used to transfer large data files and other electronic data, access the world wide web, support audio/video conferencing, send and receive e-mails and reconfigure high bandwidth sites. They also help in just-in-time inventory infrastructure management, real-time information management, customer service, and access to vital network resources. These enable organizations to boost productivity, cut costs, and increase profitability.
These accessories are used in conjunction with appropriate software that alters device network settings to suit different networking technologies. The software is used to prevent unauthorized access with the help of log in passwords. Proprietary data stored in these devices can be encrypted to avoid data theft.
Apart from standard mobile computing accessories available in the market, customized devices are also manufactured to suit specific user requirements. Work is on to design and develop new mobile computing accessories that are compatible with different networking technologies. They are expected to incorporate new features and technologies that will enable fast and error free data transfers.