Can I load software from CDs like Microsoft Money to a PDA? If so, what OS would it need to have?

Answer 1

No, you cannot. Even if you go with PocketPC which uses Windows Mobile edition, you will not be able to load your Windows-based applications UNLESS the CDs include a Windows Mobile Edition of the programs

You can, however, find programs that either integrate with or are produced by the same manufacturers as the software you want to use (e.g. Microsoft Money) that will work with your PDA.

For example, I use a program called Ultrasoft Money that integrates with and synchronizes all the data in Microsoft Money on my desktop onto my PDA. There are other applications, for example Dataviz OfficeToGo, that allow you to create, open, and edit Microsoft's Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.

If you are looking for a great PDA, I would go with any of Palm's handheld:

http://www.palm.com/us/products/index.html

I use the Palm LifeDrive, and I love it! It's a great handheld, very powerful, feature-packed PDA.