Just like your desktop computer, software for the Palm comes in a variety of different formats. There are programs that will run completely on their own (like Microsoft Word does on your desktop) as well as a whole host of programs that are reliant on other software applications to make them run (like a Microsoft Word document needs Microsoft Word in order to be read). While all this may sound a little confusing, in most cases it is really pretty easy to make sure you have all the right pieces to make your software work perfectly.

Generally, when a develop has created a program that requires the use of a platform (a separate program that is required to run the application) it will noted in the minimum requirements section or the product description. Listed below are the most common types of programs you will come across and what software you will require to be able to use them.

• Doc Files - These files are text documents similar to what a program like Microsoft Word or Wordperfect creates. To read them, you need a document reader. The most common of these are AportisDoc and TealDoc.
• HanDBase Files - These are database files that can only be used in tandem with a program called HandBase (which is a database program).
• JFile Files - JFile is a database program similar to HandBase. To use JFile files, you will first need to install JFile on your PDA.
• TealInfo Files - Another database program, TealInfo is required to view files which have been formatted for use on the TealInfo platform.
• FireViewer Files- This is a graphics format that allows you to see pictures on your PDA. To see the pictures, a program called FireViewer is required.
• cbasPad Files - cbasPad is a program that allows compact programs written in basic to be used. To run these programs, first install cbasPad.
• MathPad Files - These files are add-ons to a program called MathPad. The add-ons provide additional functionality such as medical calculations which do not come standard with MathPad.

On occasion, you may come across a piece of software that does not fit any of the formats listed above. In those case, if it is not clear what additional program is required, contact the developer directly. In most cases they can provide you with instructions on where to find the necessary application.