[CLUE-Tech] Zaurus

[Jeffery Cann]

Hi.

This past week @ JavaOne in San Francisco, I had the opportunity to test 
drive the new Sharp Zaurus SL-5500, a Linux handheld.  One word:  wow!

I had tried Mike B's Zaurus, which he purchased as a developer's version (if 
I remember correctly).  As I recall, it had 32 MB of RAM and 8 MB ROM.

The SL-5000 has 64 MB RAM and 16 MB of ROM.  The maximum RAM is 128 MB.  This 
extra memory caused a significant improvement in the performance.  It also 
has StrongARM 206 MHz processor.  The screen supports 65,536 colors and is 
bright -- its a TFT LCD.

So, in addition to the snappy response of Linux and KDE, the QWERTY keyboard 
definitely wins (for me) over the Palm handhelds.  It weighs in at about 7 oz 
and fits in your pocket.

Anyway, definitely ready for prime time.  Hopefully, they price will inch 
down in the next few weeks.  I think the list price is $549.  You can get it 
at electronics stores and on-line (e.g., Amazon) for $499.

http://sharpelectronics.com/products/ModelLanding/0,1058,698,00.html

Jeff