Linux-Powered, WiFi Handheld?

rgovostes asks: "I've been looking around for a (hopefully low-cost) Linux-based handheld device with WiFi capabilities for some network testing and security evaluation. I need to be able to ping, list nearby WiFi signals, and run Ettercap. I'd also like it to be Mac OS X compatible without much work. I found handhelds.org (Coralized), which has some information, but I'm not very handheld-savvy, so it isn't too helpful to me. Am I asking for something unrealistic or is something like this possible? Any advice on the matter would be appreciated."

Comments

Anything is possible.

[FreeLinux]

Anything is possible. In fact there are numerous palmtops and PDAs, that can satisfy your needs and desires, already available today.

However, somethings, though possible, are improbable. The likelihood of finding your dream PDA for cheap is one of those things that falls under the heading of highly improbable. If, on the other hand, you consider $300-$1000 cheap then have a look at the Sharp Zaurus, HP iPaq or Dell Axim They are all very nice PDA/palm tops.

Well, if you're a REAL nerd...

[Dr.Dubious DDQ]

This is probably not quite what you had in mind, but if you can come up with a display for it, perhaps you could build your own off of one of the gumstix computers.

Hmmmm...anyone know if there is anyone making external versions of synaptic's cPad unit? Might work as a combo display/input device for a gumstix unit.

Sure, a Sharp Zaurus is probably a better match for what you need (heck, I know *I* want one), but SOMEBODY has to suggest something else in this thread...