Abstract: A golf course (10) having a plurality of wireless access points (18) disposed within or near the outer periphery (11) of that golf course can offer communications regarding golf course infrastructure information as well as supporting subscriber communications of various kinds. Such communications can comprise, for example, data packet communications. Pursuant to one embodiment the subscriber communications can include Internet access.

Abstract: A PDA apparatus that is ruggedized by providing a peripheral bumper and a raised bezel, both of which can be made of rubber or some other elastic material for absorbing shock when the PDA is in use in the field. The PDA can also have an antenna which is also part of the peripheral bumper or that is inset to minimize damage to the antenna. The antenna receives signals from a remote location such as a global positioning so that the PDA can display useful information to the user. In a golf context, this could be the distance from the user to a golf hole. The casing of the PDA can also be made of ballistic nylon so that handles for carrying the PDA can be easily sewn onto the housing and so that the housing can further resist any shock from the environment. If the case of the PDA is hard, there can be sockets provided where the handle can be easily attached or detached using a pair of nuts. A lanyard may be provided in lieu of handle to allow the user to easily transport the PDA.