Automatically converting text files
Another big time saver is the DOC-format plug-in. Dragging text or text files into the Palm Buddy window automatically converts them into .PRC files. Dragging a text file will create a file with the same title as the file, and if you drag directly from a text editor, the plug-in creates an untitled .PRC. Then the next time you backup your Palm device, your files are loaded. No sweat.

Restoring your stuff
And now we come to the real reason for Palm Buddy: restoration. When you need to recover your data, open up the folder on the Macintosh with the files you want to restore and drag them onto the Palm Buddy window. I can't tell you how many times I've sat for a half-hour finding some obscure database to restore information for an application. Or even worse, when I spent all that time tracking it down it only to find out that I can reinstall that database. No more re-entering information for this little camper. All of my databases are in order and ready to be placed back on the PalmPilot with a minimum of fuss.

Some final hints and tips
One thing you need to pay attention to is that during a backup and while you are connected, your PalmPilot is still on. Let me repeat this just in case: your Palm device is still on. I know, you aren't an idiot, but I caught myself messing around in the window, dragging and dropping -- generally puttering around and realizing that I'd better stop since I'd eat up all my batteries if I didn't turn off my PalmPilot.

Just one more nifty trick before I finish up. The authors of Palm Buddy included a couple of hints for easier usage. I think one in particular is noteworthy. Built into the application is a feature for the 2.0 PalmOS to make HotSyncing a little easier. If you set the HotSync button on your cradle to launch Palm Buddy, then when Palm Buddy is open, hit the HotSync button again and HotSync begins! Now you don't have to go through all that monkey business about re-launching the HotSync application.

Finally, let me say that I am just plum tickled to death (as my crazy grandmother says) to be seeing more fully featured stuff out there for the Mac. A lot of what I see is geared toward Windows users (though I have nothing against Windows users) and when you use the Mac equivalent of it, you are shortchanged features and speed, and in many cases, quality. (3Com, are you listening?)