A handheld device is a type of electronic device that can be held in the hand and operated without the need for a separate power source. The term 'handheld device' is often used to refer to a Palmtop, which is a type of personal digital assistant (PDA) that is smaller than a laptop computer and has a touchscreen display. Palmtop devices are typically used for tasks such as taking notes, organizing contacts, and managing calendars.