Part 5 of 5 in the iPad for Business series.  What can an iPad offer me for work?

Power User Apps & Gadgets.  These are the apps and gadgets that you use when you need more ümph in your application.  You’ll see here a lot of apps I’ve already covered previously.  But these apps and gadgets take those ideas to the next step.  Need something more than a simple program will let you?  There’s an app for that.  Perhaps you need that extra help for applications you already have?  Add a gadget to take it to the next level.  Of course with that extra bit of power comes a bigger price tag.  But for those of us that need to work with high level apps, these items are waiting for you.

iTeleport: Jaadu VNC for iPhone / iPad ( http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/iteleport-jaadu-vnc-for-iphone/id286470485?mt=8 )
24.99 – Universal: I cover’d VNC apps yesterday, but this one takes it to a new level.  Includes an app for your desktop (no router config) so you can remote in from anywhere in the world.  As well as a whole suite of VNC functions.

FileMaker Go for iPad ( http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/filemaker-go-for-ipad/id379690325?mt=8 )
39.99 – iPad: It doesn’t allow you to create new databases while on the go, but does allow full access and editing to any FileMaker server at your disposal.  You can view & edit charts, enter data, and run reports.  It can access FileMaker servers over a network or you can open up FileMaker databases locally on the iPad.

OmniFocus for iPad ( http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/omnifocus-for-ipad/id383804552?mt=8 )
39.99 – iPad: This takes task management to a whole different level.  Location aware lists that show up on maps, voice notes for quick recording, syncing to OmniFocus on the mac and an inbox for those ideas you just haven’t thought out yet: it has everything.

OmniGraffle ( http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/omnigraffle/id363225984?mt=8 )
49.99 – iPad: This is arguably “the” diagram app on the mac, in iPad form.  With multi-touch gestures, drag-able shapes, shared items between pages, combining object… the list goes on.  In addition, it fully integrates with its desktop big brother.

AD Helpdesk ( http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ad-helpdesk/id366597535?mt=8 )
4.99 – Universal: This isn’t so much an expensive app, as an incredibly niche, power user app.  This app will allow a tech with Active Directory rights to reset, unlock, and lockout any user within an AD domain… out of the box, no configuration on the server.  Best feature?  Being able to see all locked accounts with one glance, no need to search.

Apple Digital AV Adapter  (Gadget)
39.99 – Universal: Want to present your work on the big screen?  This dongle allow you to use a TV or projector with HDMI as a second screen (all iOS devices) or mirror (for iPad 2).  Also a VGA adapter for $29 that does the same thing, just with VGA. So show off your presentation or just a website with these accessories.

iPad Keyboards (Gadget)
Varies – Universal: Missing your keyboard when typing lots of content on the iPad?  Any docking or bluetooth keyboard can be paired with the iPad to make a much easier typing experience.  I’m partial to the Apple Bluetooth Keyboard for $69, but I’m probably biased.

Touch Screen Stylus Pens (Gadget)
Varies – Universal: Stylus pens boil down to 2 criteria.  What are you going to do with it?

• If you’re looking for an all around basic stylus to take the place of your fingers, the BoxWave Capacitive iPad Stylus is the best bet. ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BUI76S ).  Comes in colors and has a general good feel for a decent $15 price point.
• For the artist out there, the slender Ten One Design Pogo Sketch stylus is your best bet.  ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Q6GGZO ) The tip is much more sensitive that the BoxWave and as such will wear out faster, but you get much more control over it. They are also a bit cheaper around $10, but you’ll need to replace it more.

(Note – iPad designed for the iPad, iPhone– designed for iPhone & scales for iPad, Universal– Designed for both, Native-Part of the iOS applications)