How to Connect 3Com Palm Pilot to a Laptop

Connecting a Palm Pilot to a computer can be helpful for completing tasks like updating the device's firmware, backing up information and transferring files. The connection process, called a HotSync operation, takes only a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Palm Desktop Organizer software
• Palm HotSync cradle

Instructions

1. Turn off your computer and connect the Palm HotSync cradle's AC adapter to the power jack on the back of the serial connector and connect the serial connector to the serial port on the computer. Plug the AC adapter into a wall socket to get power to the cradle.

2. Turn on the computer and insert the Palm Desktop software disc into the disc drive. An installation wizard will appear.

3. Click on "Install" to start the installation wizard.

4. Follow the instructions in the installation wizard to install Palm Desktop software on your computer.

5. Turn on your Palm Pilot and insert it into the cradle when the installation wizard prompts you to do so. Make sure that the back of the Palm Pilot rests firmly against the back side of the cradle.

6. Press the HotSync button on the cradle. A dialog box will appear onscreen.

7. Enter a username for your Palm Pilot. Another dialog box will appear showing the progress of the HotSync operation. The dialog box will indicate when the HotSync operation is complete, and your Palm Pilot and computer will be able to interact with one another.

Tips & Warnings

• If your computer is not equipped with a serial port, you might be able to use a serial-to-USB adapter or have a serial port expansion card installed.

References

• Palm V Organizer handbook