A Handheld PC, or H/PC for short, is a term for a computer built around a form factor which is smaller than any standard laptop computer. It is sometimes referred to as a Palmtop. The first handheld device compatible with desktop IBM personal computers of the time was the Atari Portfolio of 1989. Another early model was the Poqet PC of 1989 and the Hewlett Packard HP 95LX of 1991. Other DOS compatible hand-held computers also existed.
Some Handheld PCs run on Microsoft's Windows CE operating system, with the term also covering Windows CE devices released by the broader commercial market.
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The Handheld PC was a hardware design for PDA devices running Windows CE. It provides the appointment calendar functions usual for any PDA. The intent of Windows CE was to provide an environment for applications compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system, on processors better suited to low-power operation in a portable device. Originally announced in 1996, the Handheld PC is distinctive from its more recent counterparts such as the Palm-Size PC, Pocket PC, or Smartphone in that the specification provides for larger screen sizes as well as a keyboard.
To be classed as a Windows CE Handheld PC, the device must[1]
Examples of Handheld PC devices are the NEC MobilePro 900c, HP 320LX, HP Jornada 720, and Vadem Clio. A full list of Handheld PC class devices can be found at HPC:Factor in the Handheld PC Device Specifications List.
Microsoft has stopped developing for the Handheld PC since 2000, instead focusing development on the Pocket PC and Windows Mobile. Other Handheld PCs may not use Windows CE. Windows CE devices which match all of the hardware requirements of the H/PC specification but lack a keyboard are known as Windows CE Tablet PC or Internet tablet devices.
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