A stacked PDA running Linux? It's a geek's dream.

PDAs come in two major flavors, Palm OS and Pocket PC. But there's a third option that shouldn't be overlooked: Linux.

Sharp updated the operating system and hardware in the SL-5500 and came up with the Zaurus SL-5600. Some of the updates are subtle but welcome improvements. Still, the SL-5600 delivers for the tech-savvy. Find out why, tonight on "Fresh Gear."


Quick hits

The SL-5600 doesn't look any different from the original. Like the original, the SL-5600 has a familiar and comfortable thumb-style QWERTY keyboard cleverly hidden under the quick-launch buttons and navigation pad. A couple other notable features remain, as well.

  • Dual expansion: Type II CompactFlash (CF) and Secure Digital (SD)/MultiMediaCard (MMC). You won't get SD Input/Output (IO) support for adding peripherals such as cameras or wireless through the SD slot. The CF slot supports IBM's Microdrive for cheap gigabyte storage.
  • 240x320 display: The touch screen supports more than 65,000 colors.


The biggest changes appear under the skin.

  • Intel XScale 400-MHz processor: There's plenty of power for the SL-5600, but I found it sluggish when it was returning from standby.
  • Memory: A total of 96MB with 32MB for running applications and 64MB of flash memory for the operating system, applications, and data. Yes, your data is stored in nonvolatile memory.
  • Big battery: PDAs consume battery power even when in standby. With average use, I managed a couple weeks between charges. Your mileage may vary depending on your usage pattern. Road warriors will appreciate the removable battery for swapping on the go.
  • Voice recorder: Finally, the Sharp includes a voice recorder.


Strong software suite

Of course, a PDA is only as good as the included applications. Here are the most notable applications available on the Sharp.

  • PIM stuff: The usual applications (Calendar, Address Book, E-Mail, To Do List).
  • Hancom Mobile Office: This suite includes applications for Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint compatibility.
  • Media player: The player supports only MP3 and MPEG-1 files. Too bad that's a mere speck in the mountain of formats currently available.


Is that Windows in your PDA?

The Zaurus may run on Linux, but the interface is Trolltech's Qtopia. I like the interface, especially the tabbed navigation along the top for quickly jumping to your neatly categorized applications.

The Qtopia interface mimics a KDS or GNOME interface for Linux users. In many ways it even mimics Microsoft Windows. It has a Start button on the left of the task bar, and open applications appear as little icons on the task bar. Any Windows user will know how to work the interface.

For synchronization, the SL-5600 supports Palm Desktop, Microsoft Outlook, and Qtopia Desktop. That covers all your PIM data, but when it comes to transferring files such as Word documents and MP3s, the process isn't as convenient. You'll need to launch Zaurus File Transfer, drag the files into the application, and then transfer the files. Sorry, the SL-5600 only works with Microsoft Windows.

For your inner geek

The SL-5600 is for the tech-savvy. That's most evident when you install applications. You have to transfer the IPK file to the SL-5600 and then use the Add/Remove Software application to install the application. It's far more complicated than using a setup wizard, as with the Pocket PC, or simply double-clicking the PRC file, as with the Palm.

Other issues came up too. Software and hardware compatibility information is scattered around the Web. For example, finding drivers for my Wi-Fi card (which worked with the SL-5500) proved too difficult. For the geek in me, the hunt for new applications was entertaining, though not particularly fruitful.

The SL-5600 is hefty for a PDA. Measuring 5.4 inches by 2.9 inches with a thickness ranging from 0.7 inches to 0.9 inches, and weighing 7.1 ounces, it isn't exactly pocket-size.

Summary

If you're looking to replace your paper organizer, the Sharp Zaurus SL-5600 is too much PDA for you. For the technophile, or for anybody looking to use their PDA to maximum capability, the SL-5600 does a good job and comes with a solid suite of applications. Just be prepared to hunt for new applications and hardware that supports this portable version of Linux.

Pros: Clean interface; good battery life; data stored in flash memory

Cons: Complicated application installation; limited file support with media player; hefty

Company: Sharp Electronics
Price: $500
Available: Now