Using the Velo 1 Handheld Computer

• Data Entry During Interviews by G.H. Moore, MSW, LSW, 6/11/97
  
  

Since I take extensive notes during most of my therapeutic sessions, and do not like the potential distraction of having both hands busy on a laptop keyboard, I have started experimenting with the Velo 1, the new handheld computer from Philips. Its small enough not to be too distracting to a client, and with Jot handwriting recognition software I can make ongoing notes with one hand using the stylus. Using the Windows CE version of Word, I can take extensive notes, sometimes in an outline format, and even include a graphic of a genogram that was created with the Paint program from Microsoft. Jot takes a little getting used to, but the character recognition is quite reliable, including commands for carriage returns, cutting, copying, and pasting.

A physician has written an article for the new Handheld PC magazine < http://www.thaddeus.com/wince/vine.htm > describing his use of the Windows CE programs to record and track patient information. He prefers using Pocket Excel, Mobile Forms and CE Contacts databases.

Another benefit of the handheld PC is that it allows me to catch up on my writing projects whenever I have some free time. The keyboard is more convenient for this activity.

Like most other PDA's, the unit also has an appointment calendar and address book.

I am very pleased with the Velo 1. Its a light, elegant unit, with backlighting and a built-in modem. I can plug in to any analog phone line, connect with my ISP, pick up mail, browse newsgroups, and surf the net.

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