[CLUE-Tech] Zaurus by Sharp

[Mike Benavides]

>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
>_______________________________________________
>
People like me who tested it broke it and got it ready for prime time. 
 Go out and buy it.  It is great.  I want to sell mine to my brother to 
get the final version. The extra memory makes all the difference in the 
world.  I think it IS the best PDA on the market bar NONE.  I have 
played with them all.  Also Send an email to Sharp-USA to make their Web 
site open to all browsers.

Mike Benavides