The Unofficial

For the SL-5500 and SL-5000D Personal Mobile Tool

Compiled by Bill Kendrick
bill@newbreedsoftware.com

Last update: 2002.Apr.09 00:30

The latest version is available here:
http://www.newbreedsoftware.com/zaurus-faq/

General -- What is the Zaurus, where you can get one, etc.
Character Input -- How to use the keyboard and on-screen input.
Software -- What software you can get, and from where?
Hardware -- General hardware issues
LCD Display -- About the screen and light
Batteries and Charging -- Batteries, adapters, chargers, etc.
Expansion Slots and Cards -- Using memory cards with the Zaurus and desktop
IR Port -- Beaming, talking to cell phones, etc.
Syncing and Sharp IO Port -- How to sync and use the cradle
Networking -- General networking, browsing and e-mail questions
Accessories -- What accessories you can get, and where
User Interface -- Buttons, icons, rotation, and more
Audio -- Playing MP3s, voice recording, etc.
Graphics -- Graphics- and image-related questions
Community -- Mailing and websites you should know about
Programming -- Programming for (and ON) the Zaurus
System -- ROM upgrades, shells, logs, and other Linux-y questions

General

What is the Zaurus?
- A Linux- and Java-based PDA from Sharp
  The Zaurus PDA that this FAQ discusses is the new Linux- and Java-based PDA which was released in the US and Europe by Sharp in the 1st Quarter of 2002.
  It's specifications include:
  - 206MHz StrongARM CPU
  - 64MB RAM (for storage and memory) (5000D has 32MB)
  - 16MB ROM (for OS and built-in apps; flashable/upgradable)
  - 240x320 16bpp (65,536 colors) frontlit 3.5" LCD
  - Linux 2.4 kernel (Lineo's Embedix)
  - PersonalJava (Insignia's Jeode)
  - Qtopia (Trolltech's Qt/Embedded plus apps.)
  - Stereo audio out / Mono audio in (1/8" headphone jack)
  - Buzzer (for alarms/etc.)
  - On-screen handwriting recognition (with word-completion)
  - On-screen keyboard (with word-completion)
  - On-screen letter pickboard (with word-completion)
  - UNICode character-picker
  - 37-key QWERTY thumbpad (similar to Blackberry RIM pagers)
  - IR port
  - USB/Serial docking station
  - Compact Flash Type-2 expansion port
  - Secure Digital / Mulitmedia Card (MMC) expansion port
  - Rechargable, removable battery (Lithium-Ion)
  Applies to: SL-5500, SL-5000D
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
How does it relate to other Zauruses?
- It is similar in form-factor to Japanese MI models
  The Linux-based Zaurus (SL-5500 and the development version, SL-5000D) are similar only in that they are from Sharp and have the same shape and exterior features (keyboard, screen, etc.).
  The Zaurus discussed in this document runs Lineo's Embedix brand of Linux and uses a 206MHz ARM CPU. The earlier Zauruses released in Japan use a proprietary OS from Sharp and a different CPU. They are not compatible.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
Why should I care about the Zaurus?
- It's a powerful PDA
  With a 206MHz ARM processor, 64MB of RAM, 16bit graphics, and not one, but two expansion slots, it's among the post powerful PDAs on the market today. It's capable of wireless access, digital photography, music and video playback, full-featured web browsing, gaming, and much more.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
- It runs Linux - Great for Linux hackers!
  People accustom to Linux are used to a powerful, stable, open operating system. By using a Zaurus, they get this in their pocket, down to the shell prompt!
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
- It runs Linux - Great for the end-user!
  While many believe Linux isn't easy enough to use for end-users, on a pre-packaged device like the Zaurus, the underlying OS is transparent - the user rarely needs to think about it. And because it runs Linux, there are already many thousands of potential Zaurus developers in the world who will be creating the Zaurus applications of the future, and, thanks to the openness of Linux, helping perfect the Zaurus' existing system software and applications.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
- It's got a built-in keyboard
  The built-in, hide-away, 37-key QWERTY keyboard (similar to those on some pagers, and available as add-ons for other PDAs) provides an extremely fast method for inputing data onto your Zaurus. Many have already found the keyboard much more convenient than using the Zaurus' trainable handwriting recognition software or on-screen keyboard.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
- It's expandable
  With both a CF slot and an SD slot, you can add both extra storage space AND useful accessories to the Zaurus at the same time. (Accessories like a digital camera, a GPS device, a wireless NIC, or a modem.)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
Where can I buy a Zaurus in the US?
- Directly from Sharp's US website
  Sharp's US website, SharpPlace.com, has the Zaurus available.
  
  Applies to: SL-5500
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
- At electronic retailers
  In the US, they are available at:
  Applies to: SL-5500
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
Where can I buy a Zaurus in the UK?
- Directly from Sharp's UK website
  Sharp's UK website, Sharp.co.uk, will soon have the Zaurus available.
  
  Applies to: SL-5500
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.02
Where can I buy the Zaurus in Canada?
- Currently, you cannot buy it in Canada
  The final decision to whether the Zaurus will be marketed in Canada has not been made. If it will be, it will be available in October 2002. (See "Where else...", below)
  
  Source: Maria Iacovino, Sharp Canada
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
Where can I buy the Zaurus in the UK?
- ...
  ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
Where can I buy the Zaurus in Japan?
- Currently, the SL-5500 is not available in Japan
  Probably to keep from diluting the ~25% marketshare Sharp enjoys in Japan with the MI models (which use a different CPU and OS than the SL series), it appears Sharp hasn't yet announced plans to ship the Linux-based SL series in Japan
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
Where can I buy a Zaurus in Germany?
- Check Sharp's German Zaurus website
  Sharp's German website, zaurus.de, may be helpful.
  
  Source: Gilles Fedak, Marc Stephan
  Applies to: SL-5500G
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
- From numerous dealers
  Source: Gilles Fedak, Marc Stephan
  Applies to: SL-5500G
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
Where else can I buy a Zaurus?
- From PC Connection
  PC Connection apparently will ship anywhere (even Canada).
  
  Source: Sebastien Routier
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.09

Character Input

I think my FN key is stuck / I can't type normal characters on the keyboard!
- NUM-lock is activated
  A small should be visible on the very bottom right of the screen (to the right of the current time, on the taskbar). Pushing 'NUM-lock' (press + ) again will disable function lock: the should disappear, and the keys will work as expected.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
I think my SHIFT key is stuck / I can't type lowercase characters on the keyboard!
- CAPS-lock is activated
  A small should be visible on the very bottom right of the screen (to the right of the current time, on the taskbar). Pusing 'CAPS-lock' (press + ) again will disable caps-lock: the should disappear, and the keys will work as expected.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How do I make a | (vertical bar, or pipe) using the keyboard?
- Qtopia: Press SHIFT + SPACE
  In Qtopia (the normal, graphical environment), hold one of the keys and push .
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- Console: Press FN + SPACE
  In text-only console mode, push or hold the key and push .
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How do I make [ and ] (brackets) using the keyboard?
- Press SHIFT + FN and Del or Comma
  To get an open bracket ("["), push and hold and , and press [Del].
  To get a close bracket ("]"), push and hold and , and press [,;].
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How do I make { and } (braces) using the keyboard?
- Press SHIFT + FN + < and >
  To get an open brace ("{"), push and hold and , and press [.:].
  To get a close brace ("}"), push and hold and , and press [Enter].
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
Where's the Escape key?
- Press Cancel
  The button on the panel acts as the Escape key.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How do I send CONTROL characters (to the Terminal, for example) using the keyboard?
- Press FN + SHIFT + Key
  In Qtopia, all CONTROL-A through CONTROL-Z characters (except CONTROL-C) can be sent by holding both and while pressing the letter.
  CONTROL-C can be made by pushing just and [C]. (CONTROL-Z, -X, and -V can be entered with just , as well)
  
  Applies to: QWERTY keyboard models
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
Can I use a regular or stow-away keyboard with the Zaurus?
- Not currently
  But the Zaurus has a serial port, so something like the ThinkOutside Stowaway keyboard for the Palm could be used, as there's a hack to connect it to iPaq PDAs running Linux. (See this and this.)
  
  Source: Brian J. Fox
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01

Software

Where can I buy software for the Zaurus?
- MyZaurus.com (aka Handango.com/sharp)
  MyZaurus.com is a portal site run by Sharp which includes a software section managed by the PDA site Handango.com.
  The software there is under the Software section.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
- theKompany.com sells Zaurus software
  theKompany.com, known for their commerical Linux-based desktop software, already have a collection of commercial software (typically in the $5-20 USD range) for the Zaurus.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.04
Where can I download software (free or otherwise) for the Zaurus?
- Zaurus Software Index
  Zaurus Software Index is a community-maintained, categorized index of software available for the Zaurus.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
- ZaurusZone.com
  ZaurusZone.com, maintained by Jason Perlow (who's doing work for Sharp), includes a "Downloads" section here.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
- The Zaurus SourceForge project
  The Zaurus project at SourceForge has a "Files" section full of downloads.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
- MyZaurus.com (aka Handango.com/sharp)
  The Software section of MyZaurus.com doesn't just contain commercial and shareware software. It also includes a lot of free/Open Source software, as well as trial versions of some of the non-free programs.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
- Zaurus@LL
  Zaurus.LovesLinux.com includes a downloads section.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
- From the OPIE Project
  The OPIE project is an open source alternative to Trolltech's Qtopia suite. It includes several enhanced Qtopia apps., as well as a few originals.
  Note: Some may need the 'libopie' package to run properly!!!
  
  Source: ljp on the Zaurus-General list
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
- IpkgFind
  IpkgFind, similar to RPMFind for desktop Linux users, lets you use keywords to search for available packages, many of which will work on the Zaurus.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
How do I install software onto the Zaurus?
- Use the Add/Remove Software program to install IPK packages
  Most software for the Zaurus comes in a format called "IPK" (eg, "someprogram_1.0_arm.ipk"). Place the IPK files on your Zaurus either by:
  1. Using the sync software on the desktop
  2. Uploading to the "/home/root/Documents/" directory using FTP or SCP
  3. Placing the IPK on a CF or SD card (anywhere will do, at the moment)
  Run the 'Add/Remove Software' program (found in the 'Settings' tab of the launcher), click the "Install packages" button, and select the packages to install from the list. (Uninstalled programs will have a icon next to them.)
  You are typically given the choice to install the package into "Internal" storage (the storage space inside the Zaurus's RAM), on a CF card, or on an SD card. Note: Some packages fail to install on external cards!
  When you're done installing, exit the Add/Remove program, and Qtopia will restart.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
- Use the Add/Remove Software program to install packages off the net
  Similar to the Debian distribution of Linux, and Familiar Linux-on-iPaq PDA project, the Zaurus can download software packages off of the Internet using 'feeds.'
  Add a server (referred to as a 'feed URL'), and then select and install software available from the feed.
  
  Source: Gilles Fedak
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
- Run the "ipkg" command from a terminal
  Instead of using the 'Add/Remove Software' application, you can run the "ipkg" command from within the . (eg, "ipkg install some.ipk")
  Run the "ipkg" command without any arguments to see what else you can do with it.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
Is Hancom Office available for the SL-5000D models?
- You can use the 30-day trial version, for now
  Currently, only SL-5500 owners are able to download the non-trial version of the Hancom Office software. You can get it from mobile.hancom.com.
  
  Applies to: SL-5000D, SL-5500
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.03
- SL-5000D users will be able to use it soon, possibly for a small fee
  Hancom is working with Sharp to provide a permanent solution to the thousands of people who've recently purchased the Zaurus 5000. They'll have a permanent solution available well before you 30-day trial expires (but they do have to feed their engineers, so it's possible that they will charge a small fee for the non-trial edition.
  
  Source: Bart Decrem, Hancom
  Applies to: SL-5000D
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.03
I get 'Bus Errors' when running programs
- Typically, this is due to a truncated IPK install
  If a newly-installed application won't run from the Launcher, and you get welcome with a 'Bus Error' when trying to run it from the , it probably got truncated during install, and, unfortunately, the 'Add/Remove Software' application didn't notice. Try uninstalling it, freeing up some space, and then re-installing it.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
I heard you can play Quake on the Zaurus
- Yes, but it's slow and currently buggy
  You can download the Quake IPK and data IPK and install them on your Zaurus, if you have space. People have had problems running it from the launcher using the Quake icon in the 'Games' tab. You can run it from a command line with:
  quake -nosound -width 240 -height 200 -basedire /opt/QtPalmtop/quake/data
  ...and it will run, but slowly.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
Can I run X-Window System programs on the Zaurus?
- Yes, but you'll need to install X-Window, first
  The Zaurus's "Qtopia" environment runs directly on the video framebuffer, it doesn't use X-Window like Qt for the desktop does on a typical Linux system. To run X11 applications on the Zaurus (eg, those compiled for Linux running on the iPaq PDA), you'll first need to get the XFree86 packages for the Zaurus. Note: You'll need a CF or SD memory card!
  XFree86 for Zaurus at SourceForge.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
How do I switch to X-Window from Qtopia?
- Terminate Qtopia and start X-Window from the console
  - 'Terminate Qtopia' from the 'Shutdown' app.
  - Press at the 'Wait' prompt in the text mode
  - Press [A] to enter text-only mode
  - Log-in as 'root'
  - Enter the command "wm" to start X11
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
Can I get back to Qtopia from X-Window?
- Yes, just exit X-Window
  Exit X-Window using the IceWM menus. Once back at the console, type the command "exit". The 'Wait...' will appear and Qtopia will restart.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
Can I uninstall the pre-installed software? (eg, Java demos)
- Not using the Zaurus itself
  The built-in applications (Opera, the PIM apps., Jeode and the Java demos, etc.) are not installed using the package system, so you cannot remove them using 'Add/Remove Software'.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
- They're typically in ROM, anyway
  Most built-in apps. are stored in the 16MB of flashable ROM, and aren't taking up space in Internal Storage.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
- Build your own ROMimage
  Some have taken Sharp's ROMimage and removed some applications, and added others. ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

Hardware

I thought this thing had a built-in keyboard! Where is it?
- Slide the panel down
  The built-in keyboard is hidden 'behind' the panel of buttons below the screen. Grab the panel on either side (left of the button, and right of the button) and pull down (away from the screen).
  Be sure to pull it down all the way, until it 'locks,' otherwise the panel buttons will not work.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
My Zaurus won't slide into the cradle!
- Open the Sharp I/O Port
  Make sure the cover on the bottom of the device, labelled , is opened. (Use a fingernail to grab the slot at the top of the door and pull down to open the cover. Then push the cover in, to insert it into the Zaurus.)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
What are these holes on the back of the Zaurus?
- Eyelets
  The holes next to the headphone jack, on the top, and the battery door cover lock, on the bottom, are eyelets. They are for connecting straps for carrying your Zaurus on your shoulder or around your neck, or for securing it in a public display.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- Screw-hole
  The hole near the center of the back of the Zaurus (about 1/3rd down the back) is a screwhole for mounting or securing the Zaurus.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
Is the new SL-5500 Zaurus compatible with the Japanese MI-E21?
- The models are not compatible
  Though they have a similar appearance, and share much of the same hardware, they have different CPUs and architectures, and run different operating systems.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
What's the difference between the SL-5000D and the SL-5500?
- The SL-5000D was an earlier released, developer's model
  The SL-5000D was initially available for USD $399, was available in November 2001, has only 32MB of RAM, and has an all-plastic stylus.
  The SL-5500 is the first consumer model, initially available for $499, available in March 2002, has 64MB of RAM, and has a part-metal, part-plastic stylus. It also comes with an embedded office suite from Hancom pre-installed (presentation viewer, word processor and spreadsheet).
  Internally, other than the RAM size, they seem to be identical. (Software and peripherals are compatible, they physically look the same, other technical specifications are the same, etc.)
  
  Applies to: SL-5000D / SL-5500
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.30

LCD Display

How do I turn the frontlight off?
- Push and hold the Menu button.
  Push and hold the button. After holding it for one second, the light should turn on/off.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- Adjust the brightness in Light & Power.
  Run the 'Light & Power' application to adjust the brightness of the frontlight.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How easy is the display to read with the light off?
- In bright light, it's very good
  In bright light (outdoors during daytime, or in a brightly lit room or, for example, grocery store), the light isn't actually useful. The display looks similar to GameBoy Advanced screens in these situations.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
- In a dark room, it's impossible to see
  With the light completely off, it's almost impossible to see in a dark room. With the frontlight at it's lowest setting (under 'Light & Power'), visibility is suitable in a very dark room.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
My screen seems pushed over to the left.
- This is for the frontlight
  The Zaurus's LCD display is slightly off-center, pushed to the left about 1mm, to make room for the front-light which is on the right side of the screen.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28

Batteries and Charging

Can I use the A/C adapter without the cradle?
- The normal A/C adapter works with or without the cradle
  You can unplug the A/C adapter from the back of the cradle, and plug it directly into the bottom of the Zaurus, in the plug.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
Is there a car adapter for the Zaurus?
- Not currently
  People have had luck using normal A/C adapters from Compaq iPAQ PDAs, so presumably an iPAQ car adapter could work. Noone has reported trying, nor success or failure.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
The battery status doesn't seem to accurate
- It's not the best yet
  The battery status in the taskbar - - only seems to show 0%, 10%, 25%, 50% and 100% at the moment.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
How long does the battery last?
- It depends on how much you use it.
  ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
Do I lose all my data if I let the battery drain completely, or remove the battery?
- No, the RAM is backed up by another battery
  Along with the removable Lithium-Ion battery, the Zaurus has an internal battery: a small Nickel Cadmium one. It keeps the RAM (part of which contains the program-, data- and configuration-files) from being lost when the Lithium-Ion one goes dead, or is removed from the case. It will only last about 24 hours, though!
  
  Source: Peter W. Borders
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
Why do I have to charge the Zaurus for 24 hours when I first get it?
- To fully charge the NiCd battery
  The Nickel Cadmium battery that keeps your data safe when the main Lithium-Ion battery is completely drained, or removed, is very small, but it charges at a very low rate. This is probably why Sharp recommends charging the Zaurus for 24 hours the first time.
  
  Source: Peter W. Borders
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.30

Expansion Slots and Cards

What do CF, SD and MMC stand for?
- CF stands for Compact Flash
  The Zaurus has a 'Type 2' CF slot, which means it can support larger, 'Type 2' CF devices, like micro-harddrives.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
- SD stands for Secure Digital
  ... (no security / compatible with MMC)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
- MMC stands for MultiMedia Card
  ... (predecessor to SD)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
Can I use MMC cards instead of SD cards? They look the same.
- Yes, they are compatible
  SD cards add two pins (one on either side) on top of the 7 that MMC cards have. ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
I heard CF cards were compatible with PCMCIA cards. Can I use PCMCIA on my Zaurus?
- Yes, using an adapter
  CF cards and PCMCIA cards are similar, but they are in a different form factor. There are adapters which plug into a CF slot (like on the Zaurus), and allow you to plug PCMCIA devices into it. (They cost approx. USD $50).
  Whether the PCMCIA devices will work once connected, is another story...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
Are CF and SD memory cards automatically 'mounted' when I insert them into my Zaurus?
- Yes, CF and SD memory cards are mounted automatically.
  The 'cardmgr' and 'sdmgr' processes running on your Zaurus will notice when a card is plugged in, and automatically mount it.
  You should see a 'SD' (for SD cards) or (for CF cards) card appear on the taskbar, at the bottom right of the screen.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How do I get to the files on my SD/CF cards when they're in the Zaurus?
- They should be available automatically
  Most programs (including the 'Documents' tab of the launcher) will automatically see files on the mounted cards.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- They are in /mnt/card and /mnt/cf, respectively.
  When issuing commands from within the program, or when using applications that provide a desktop-computer-style file browser for accessing files, the contents of the SD and CF cards can be found within the "/mnt/card" and "/mnt/cf" directories on the Zaurus's filesystem, respectively.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
Am I supposed to 'Unmount' CF and SD memory cards before physically removing them?
- Yes, unmounting is suggested.
  In case there is still data left to be written to a file on the SD or CF card, you should 'Eject' ('Unmount') it before physically taking it out of the device. This ensures that the data finishes writing. Once it's done, the card's icon will disappear from the taskbar, and you know it's safe to remove it.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
How do I 'Unmount' CF and SD memory cards?
- Tap their icon in the taskbar.
  Tap the 'SD' or icon in the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. Select "Eject Card" from the menu that appears. Once the icon has disappeared, it is safe to remove the card.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
I tried to 'unmount' a card using 'Eject', but the icon doesn't go away!
- Something is still using the card
  Unfortunately, unlike the Linux 'umount' command, the Qtopia GUI's 'Eject' command doesn't give you an error (like "device is busy") if something is still being used on the card.
  Most Qtopia programs are good about 'letting go' of the cards, so they shouldn't cause a problem. If you've got a open, though, make sure you're not in the '/mnt/cf' or '/mnt/card' directory. If absolutely nothing helps, try rebooting from the 'Shutdown' app.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
How can I write to SD/CF cards using my PC?
- Use a card reader
  You can purchase a USB Compact Flash card reader for PCs. Some include slots to read other cards, as well.
  Note: Desktop Linux users will need a Kernel capable of USB (version 2.4 or later, and some later 2.2.x versions), and may need to configure the kernel to support CF card readers.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
- Use your Zaurus
  ... (while it's connected to the PC via cradle / via network)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
Can I use CF microdrives with the Zaurus?
- Yes, but they may get warm
  People have reported success using CF microdrives (even those as big as 1.0GB) with the Zaurus. Some have been concerned about the amount of heat put out by them, and there's no doubt they'll eat up your battery if you use them a lot. (For example, IBM's Microdrives)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
Can I use a CF or SD card as memory, instead of file storage space?
- Set up a 'swap' file on the card
  It is not recommended for normal usage (since writing and rewriting to the same area of flash media will wear it out much more quickly than normal usage), or the faint of heart, but creating a 'swap' file (virtual memory) on a card is possible.
  Set up a swap file, and more "memory" will be available for programs. (Just remember to remove the swap file before unmounting and removing the card.)
  - Open the
  - Create an empty file for use as swap. For example:
    dd if=/dev/zero of=/mnt/cf/SwapFile count=32768
    ("count" is the size of the file in 512-byte blocks, so 32768 is 16MB. "of" specifies the location of the swapfile. In this case, on the mounted CF card.)
  - Turn the blank file into a swap file:
    mkswap /mnt/cf/SwapFile
  - Activate the swapfile:
    swapon /mnt/cf/SwapFile
  You can see the swap by checking the available memory. Run the command "free".
  To turn off the swapfile (you won't be able to eject the card unless you do this first!!!), run the command:
  swapoff /mnt/cf/SwapFile
  See also: Increasing virtual memory on your 5000D
  
  Source: Howard R. Abbey, Huge Eaves, Rick Spickelmier
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
My Internal storage space is running out!
- Move documents to a CF or SD card using the Documents Tab
  In the 'Documents' tab, if you click-and-hold the icon of a document, you can adjust some of its settings, including where it's stored. If you have room on an external storage device (a CF or SD card), simply change the 'Location' using the pulldown menu, and then click '(OK)' and the file will be moved.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
- Save new files to the CF or SD card
  Unfortunately, not many, but some applications (like the 'Voice Recorder') allow you to choose where new documents will be stored. If you're running low on Internal space, choose a different storage location.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
Can I change the filesystem type on an SD or CF card?
- Yes ...
  Most SD and CF cards come pre-formatted in Windows FAT16 or FAT32 format, for use in WinCE/PocketPC PDAs, digital cameras, etc. On the Zaurus, you can reformat them to EXT2 format, which is the most commonly-used filesystem under Linux.
  Changing the filesystem to EXT2 is useful because you get case-sensitive long filenames, file permissions and ownership settings, symbolic link support, and more.
  ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
What other kinds of CF cards can I use?
- Digital Camera card
  ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
- LAN and WLAN cards
  ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
- Modem and Wireless Modem cards
  ...
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
What other kinds of SD cards can I use?
- Currently, none
  At the moment, only SD and MMC flash memory cards are supported.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.08

IR Port

I can't seem to receive beams from other people.
- Enable Beam Receive
  By default, to conserve battery life, the IR port doesn't listen for beaming all of the time (like some other PDAs do). Activate the IR port from the 'Beam Receive' application.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- Turn the Zaurus on
  Even if Beam Receive is enabled, the Zaurus can't listen to the IR port unless it's turned on! (Push and hold the button to wake it up.)
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- The IR port is on the left
  Remember, to make space for the CF slot at the top, the IR port on the Zaurus is on the lefthand side!
  
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
- PocketPC users must beam from index
  The Zaurus can receive beamed contacts from a Pocket PC 2002 device. The Pocket PC 2002 transfers the contact information differently between the index view and the full contact view. The Zaurus can only receive the contact when it is beam from the index view.
  
  Source: MyZaurus.com
  Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
How do I beam files/documents from my Zaurus?
- Tap-and-hold the document icon
  In the 'Documents' tab of the Launcher, tap the icon of the file you wish to beam, and keep the stylus pressed on the screen for a few moments ('tap-and-hold'). A window will pop-up which includes a 'Beam' button at the bottom.
  
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
Can the IR port be used to talk to cellphones?
- Use the Network and Sync app.
  Using the 'Network and Sync' app., add an "IrDA - PPP" service, enter your ISP's dialup number, your username and password, and set the speed (eg, 19200bps).
  
  Source: Herb Jellinek
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
- People have reported success with a number of brands/models
  - Siemens S45, 115kbps over IR, 9600bps over Cellnet GSM (UK network)
  - Motorola Timeport family
  - Ericsson T68
  - Nokia 6210
  Source: Paul Flinders, Nick Williams, James Reader, Luciano Lavagno
  Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
- With an Ericsson T68M, using, eg, "Orange" service in the UK
  On the phone:
  1. Go to Menu => Connect => Data Comm => Data Accounts => Add New Account.
  2. Select GPRS Data
  3. Give it a name
  4. Set the APN to "orangeinternet" (without quotes)
  5. Leave the user id and password blank.
  6. Save.
  7. Make a note of the CID of the connection, you'll need it later.
  On the Zaurus:
  1. Go to the tab and open 'Network and Sync'
  2. Go to the "Services" tab and click "Add"
  3. Select "Dial-up PPP"
  4. Leave username and password blank.
  5. In the phone number, enter "*99***(CID)#", where "CID" is the CID number from above
  6. On the "Modem" tab, the DNS server addresses are 158.43.192.1 and 158.43.128.1
  7. On proxies, select "No Proxies"
  8. Save.
  Then turn the IR port on your phone on, and start the network connection from the toolbar. Once it connects you can start 'Opera' and browse away.
  To change this to work with other service providers, all you should need are:
  Source: James Reader Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
Can the Zaurus be used as a remote control (eg, for TVs)? Not effectively; the range is too short ... Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

`Syncing and Sharp IO Port`


Can I sync with a Macintosh?

Currently, no.

Unfortunately, the sync software is not yet available for MacOS9
         or MacOSX.
         Contact TrollTech 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
 
Use the raw XML files.

The Zaurus PIM applications store their data in XML format.
         One could presumably FTP them from the Zaurus (under the
         "/home/root/Applications/" directory) and then parse the XML
         (perhaps using Perl, which comes with MacOSX) and convert it
         into something compatible with desktop software. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
 


Can I sync with Linux?

Yes, using QtopiaDesktop

Trolltech has created "QtopiaDesktop" for Linux, which will
         let you sync the PIM software and transfer files and programs
         to/from the Zaurus.  ftp://ftp.trolltech.com 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.03
 


Can I connect USB devices to my Zaurus?

No, the Zaurus can't use USB devices

The Zaurus has a USB device controller, not a USB host
         controller. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
 


I can't seem to transfer large files to/from my Zaurus

Under Linux, use usb-uhci.o Kernel module

People have reported that using the "usb-uhci.o" Kernel
         module, rather than the "uhci.o" one, will help with problems
         like this that occur using the USB cradle under Linux. 

Source: David J. Kessler

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


My desktop stops recognizing my Zaurus if I take it out, or it goes to sleep

Connect the A/C adapter to the cradle

The Zaurus won't go to sleep if it's connected to wall power. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.03
 
Push the 'Sync' button on the cradle

Pushing the [Sync] button on the cradle typically helps the
         desktop re-register the Zaurus over the USB connection. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.03
 


Nothing happens when I try to sync using Windows

Disable Personal Firewall

Some versions of Windows (eg, XP) might be 'protecting' you
         from your Zaurus.  Try adjusting the settings or disabling the
         firewall altogether and see if that helps. 

Source: B.C., post on Slashdot

Last updated: 2002.Apr.04
 
Try connecting to a powered USB hub

Where in your USB chain do you have the Zaurus hooked up to?
         If it is hooked up to an unpowered hub, try moving it to
         a powered one, or directly to your PC. 

Source: Mookie Kong

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


How do I use the cradle under Linux?

Under SuSE 7.3...


          Get a 2.4.16 kernel update (with sources..) from ftp.suse.com
          
Apply the usbdnet patches
          
Configure the kernel as mentioned in the howto
          
Compile new kernel and modules ('make' clean, dep, bzlilo, modules, and modules_install)
          
Create new initrd (mk_initrd ; lilo)
          
Edit /etc/rc.config.d/hotplug.rc.config - it should read:

              HOTPLUG_USB_HOSTCONTROLLER_LIST="uhci usb-uhci uhci usb-ohci ehci-hcd"
          
Restart USB subsystem (run "/etc/init.d/hotplug restart")
          
 

Source: Dr. Christian Riede on Zaurus-General

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 


It says I can sync with Outlook and PalmDesktop.  Can I sync with Pilot-Link, J-Pilot, etc. under Linux?

...

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 



Networking

How can I get to my LAN or the Internet from the Zaurus?

Using a LAN or WLAN card, it should 'just work'

If your Zaurus is connected to your LAN via an ethernet CF card
         or a Wireless card, you should have access to the PCs on your LAN
         and the Internet, beyond.  This is assuming your Zaurus is configured
         properly (eg, you've provided a DNS server for it to use, so you
         can access websites using their domain names, rather than IP address),
         etc. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 
Using the cradle and a Windows desktop...

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 
Using the cradle and a Linux desktop...

... See the 'Zaurus Ethernet
         over USB under Linux HOWTO 

Source: Charles-Edouard Ruault

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 


Why is my Zaurus trying to connect to port 67?

It's trying to get an IP using DHCP

Port 67, in the past used for BOOTP traffic, is now more commonly
         used for DHCP - to automatically obtain an IP address on a network,
         and get other related information (like DNS servers, default
         gateway to use, etc.).  The Zaurus is trying to do DHCP. 

Source: Dax Kelson

Last updated: 2002.Mar.31
 


Can I use my desktop browser's bookmarks on the Zaurus?

Not without converting them

Opera on the Zaurus uses a simplified bookmark system, and stores
         its bookmarks in pairs of lines; one the name of the bookmark, the
         other the URL.  For example:

         
Yahoo!

         http://www.yahoo.com/

         Google Search

         http://www.google.com/


         (This file is "/home/root/.opera/bookmarks.dat" on
         the Zaurus.)


         Opera on the desktop uses a slightly more complicated, but also
         plaintext, bookmark system.  Netscape uses an HTML format.


         While it should be simple for someone to create a script which
         converts a desktop browser's bookmarks into the Zaurus Opera
         format, noone has done so yet.
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


I can't telnet into my Zaurus!

in.telnetd isn't installed by default

The default Sharp ROMs don't come with a telnet daemon. ... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
Telnet is disabled by default

Either using the "vi" editor on the Zaurus
         through the , or by downloading the file via
         FTP and editing on your desktop, you'll want to edit the file
         "/etc/inetd.conf" on the Zaurus.

         Find the line that looks like this:


         
#telnet stream tcp nowait root /usr/sbin/in.telnetd
         


         ... and remove the "#" (comment) at the
         beginning of the line.


         Finally, restart the "inetd" daemon by running this command:


         
killall -HUP inetd
 

Source: Jim Murff

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


I can telnet, but I can't log-in as root!

Add "ttya1" through "ttya7" to /etc/securetty

By default, most Unix systems do NOT allow root to connect to
         the system on anything but the physical terminal.

         Similarly to the above, you'll need to edit the file
         "/etc/securetty" on your Zaurus.  In this case,
         you'll want to add seven lines, "ttya1 - F"
         through "ttya7 - F".
 

Source: Brian F. Morgan, Peter W. Borders, Paul Flinders

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 


I can't SSH into my Zaurus!

Install the OpenSSH package

... Once installed, you must generate some host keys, by running
         the following command from the :

         ssh-keygen -b 1024 -f /usr/local/etc/ssh_host_key -N ''


         (Note that those are two single quotes on the end.)
 

Source: Casey Anderson

Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
 


I can't FTP into my Zaurus!

Connect to port 4242

The FTP server on the Zaurus listens to port 4242, rather than
         the normal port 21. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


I can't MGET multiple files off of my Zaurus!

MGET won't work with the built-in FTP server

The Qtopia FTP server running on port 4242 of the Zaurus doesn't
         support the 'NLST' request, which is what an FTP client's
         'MGET' command uses to see what files it should download. 

Source: Jeffrey FOx

Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
 


Does Opera on the Zaurus support SSL encryption?

Yes

SSL v2, SSL v3 and TLS v1. 

Source: 'RR' on zaurus-general

Last updated: 2002.Apr.04
 


Is there a serial comm. terminal for the Zaurus?

Yes, minicomm has been ported

You can get it from the Zaurus Sourceforge site.

         To make minicomm use the serial port by default (and not present
         an error message about 'Configuration file not found...'),
         create the file "/etc/minirc.dfl" containing:

          

         baudrate 9600

         pu bits 8

         pu parity N

         pr port /dev/ttyS0

          

         (that's "tty", capital 'S', zero)
 

Source: Dax Kelson

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


I heard I can run Konqueror on the Zaurus - Can I!?

Yes!  Download the Konqueror/Embedded package

You can install Konq/e for your Zaurus.  It supports bookmarks,
         zoom-out (like Opera) to 20%, zoom-in to 150%, multiple pages open
         at once, and much more.  You can get it
         from SourceForge. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


Can I use BlueTooth on the Zaurus?

Not currently

The Zaurus SL-5500 doesn't have built-in BlueTooth, and at the
         moment, no BlueTooth CF or SD cards are supported. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 


Using tkcJabber, people on AIM can only send me messages if they're in my buddy list

Your server-side AIM preferences are setup with this restriction

An easy way to fix this is to login to AOL's Java-based
         AIM Express
         and update your preferences there. 

Source: theKompany.com

Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
 


Using tkcJabber, I can't seem to remove people from my buddy list

tkcJabber is grabbing your list of buddies from the IM server.

An easy way to fix this is to login to AOL's Java-based
         AIM Express
         to update your server-side buddy list. 

Source: theKompany.com

Last updated: 2002.Apr.09
 



Accessories
What accessories are available for the Zaurus?

Check MyZaurus.com

Sharp's MyZaurus.com
         lists a number of accessories for the Zaurus on their
         Accessories
         page:

         

         Mobile modem card
         
Land modem card
         
Wireless network card
         
Ethernet card
         
SD and CF memory cards
         
Digital camera
         
Battery and power accessories
         
Cradle and serial cable
         
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
Check developer.sharpsec.com

The
         developer.sharpsec.com
         site (where the SL-5000D was first made available) contains a page
         that lists
         peripherals that will work on the Zaurus (including brand and
         model), as well as those they hope will work some day soon. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


Are there cases for the Zaurus?

MI-E21 Zaurus Cases should fit

Cases for the Zaurus MI-E21, such as
         these
         available from Xigma in Japan (they ship to the US) should
         fit the SL-5500. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 
Targus makes some cases for iPaq/Jornada which should fit

Targus also makes a few cases for the iPaq/Jornada which fit just
         fine.  For example,
         this one.
         It's only $10 USD, and has an inside pocket for PCMCIA or
         business cards. 

Source: Todd Radel

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 



User Interface
Are the quick launch buttons programmable?

Yes.  Run "Application Key"

Launch the 'Application Key' application, and you can
         select programs (from within the 'Applications' tab)
         which should be launched when each of the application keys on
         the panel are pushed.

         Note: Only the  button can currently be assigned the
         "Menu Popup" function.
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 


Why doesn't the Menu button work?

Some applications do not use the menu button.

Only when the main 'Launcher' display is visible, will the
          button cause the  menu to pop-up. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 
Has it been reprogrammed?

Make sure the  button was assigned the
         "Menu Popup" function within the 'Application Key'
         application. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 


Can't programs on the Zaurus rotate? (Landscape)

Install the QPE-Rotation and Qt-Embedded-Rotation packages

To rotate applications (eg, display them Landscape
         (320w x 240h) instead of Portrait (240w x 320h),
         install both of these packages: QPE-Rotation for the
         application, and Qt-Embedded-Rotation for the fonts and graphics.
         They are both available from the
         QPE package
         feed at SourceForge.net.

         Note: To rotate an application, you must run the 'Rotation'
         program (under the 'Settings' tab) first, then run the
         program.  This lets you run many programs simultaneously, with only
         some of them rotated!
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 



Audio
How can I use the voice recorder?  I don't see a microphone!

There is no built-in microphone

This current models of the Zaurus do not have a built-in Mic. 

Applies to: SL-5500

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 
Use a microphone or headset.

Use a normal 3.5mm (1/8in) microphone, or use a headset for
           cellphones.  (They are typically 2.5mm, so you'll need a
           a 2.5mm to 3.5mm adapter.  The adapter must be a stereo one,
           even for a mono headset!) 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 
Use the left headphone

If you have no microphone or headset, you can use the
           left earpiece of a pair of headphones.  Quality will be poor,
           though. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 


I can't hear anything when I go to play an MP3/WAV/etc.

The SL-5500 does not have a built-in speaker.

You'll need to use headphones.  The Zaurus headphone jack is
           a standard 3.5mm (1/8in) size, like portable CD players, etc. 

Applies to: SL-5500

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 
Check the volume.

Tap the  on the taskbar at the bottom
            right of the screen.  Adjust the volume using the slider. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 
When recording, check Input Gain setting

If you can't hear anything when playing back sounds recorded
           with the 'Voice Recorder' application, try adjusting the
           "Input Gain" setting (under Options->Preferences)
           and recording again. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
 



Graphics
How do I take screenshots of the Zaurus?

Use the 'scshot' command.

From the  program, you can run the command
           '/home/sharp/bin/scshot name' and it
           will take a snapshot of the screen and store it in a file named
           'name0001.bmp'.  Further screenshots will be named '0002', '0003',
           etc.

           The screenshot is taken immediately.  You can use the Linux
           'sleep' command to pause before taking the shot, so
           you don't just end up taking a shot of the Terminal.  eg,:


           sleep 5 ; /home/sharp/bin/scshot shot
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 
Install the screenshot applet.

There's a program you can install on the Zaurus which will
           appear as an applet on the taskbar (near the battery status
           and clock) which lets you take screenshots at a click of the
           stylus.

           You can download it from the
           SourceForge.net Zaurus site.
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 
Use VNC and your desktop.

You can install the VNC Server software
           on the Zaurus, connect it to your desktop or local area network,
           and then run a VNC client on your desktop, and take a screenshot
           of that. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
 


Can I view PDFs on the Zaurus?

Use Opera

The 'Opera' browser supports PDF format files. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
 
Download QPDF

QPDF is a port of XPDF, and supposedly works better (faster)
         than Opera.  You can get it from
         here. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 



Community
Are there any Zaurus-related mailing lists?

zaurus-chatter at SourceForge

For general, non-development discussion of the Zaurus.

           Sign-up |
           Archives
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
zaurus-general at SourceForge

For general discussion of development for the Zaurus,
           not specific to Java, Qtopia or Bluetooth.

           Sign-up |
           Archives
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
zaurus-qtopia at SourceForge

For discussion of development for the Zaurus under the Qtopia
           graphical environment.

           Sign-up |
           Archives
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
zaurus-java at SourceForge

Discussion of development for the Zaurus using Java.

           Sign-up |
           Archives
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
zaurus-bluetooth at SourceForge

For BlueTooth (802.11b) wireless discussion regarding the
           Zaurus.

           Sign-up |
           Archives
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
qpe-devel at SourceForge

The main list of the Qt Palmtop Environment (now known as Qtopia)
           project site at SourceForge.

           Sign-up |
           Archives
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
uZers at Yahoo! Groups

A community-run list for end-users and developers of simple
           apps.

           uZers' Yahoo!
           Group
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
Zaurus Otaku Kurabu (Zaurus Nerd Club) at Yahoo! Groups

Originally a discussion forum for the original Japanese-only
           Zaurus models, now it is focusing more on the new Linux-based
           models.

           ZOK's Yahoo!
           Group
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
sl5500 at Yahoo! Groups

A community-run general discussion list for the Zaurus.

           sl5500's Yahoo!
           Group
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
id-zaurus at Yahoo! Groups

A community-run list for the 'International Version' of
           the Zaurus SL-series PDA.

           id-zaurus'
           Yahoo! Group
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
zaurus-pim-dev at Yahoo! Groups

A community-run project devoted to created a new set of
           Personal Information Manager (PIM) applications for the Zaurus,
           to replaces those that come as part of Trolltech's Qtopia.

           zaurus-pim-dev's Yahoo! Group
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
Zaurus Mailing-Liste

A German community-run list.

           Zur Mailing-Liste: "zaurus"
 

Source: Andi Scharfstein

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 
qt-embedded-interest at Trolltech

A list run by Trolltech which is meant for questions and
           discussions regarding Qt/Embedded.

           Find it on the
           Trolltech Mailing Lists
           page.
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
qt-interest at Trolltech

A list run by Trolltech which hosts discussion among
           active Qt users and others interested in the toolkit.

           qt-interest at Trolltech
 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


Are there any Zaurus-related web forums?

ZaurusZone

ZaurusZone has over
           2-dozen
           web-based forums 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
 
developer.sharpsec.com

Sharp's developer
           site (initally for the SL-5000D) includes
           a general forum, and a developer's forum.  You must sign up
           for the site to use it, though. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.05
 
Zaurus@LL

Zaurus.LovesLinux.com includes web-based forums. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 


Are there Zaurus-related chat rooms / IRC channels?

#zaurus on OPN

The #zaurus channel on irc.openprojects.net is a general
           hang-out for users and developers alike. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 



Programming
What languages can I use to program my Zaurus?

C++

You can program Qtopia applications using C++, and then
         cross-compile them for the Zaurus. ... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
C

Plain text console programs, and programs written to use
         the Framebuffer, or using SDL, for example, can be written in C,
         and then cross-compiled for the Zaurus. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
Java

Since the Zaurus comes, by default, with a Java Virtual Machine
         (Insignia's "Jeode"), you can run Java programs on it.
         (No cross-compiling is needed, of course!) 

Applies to:  ROM(s) Official Sharp ROMs

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


What languages can I use ON my Zaurus?

Shell scripting (eg, BASH)

By default, the Zaurus comes with the BASH shell, so you can
         write BASH shell scripts on the Zaurus. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
C and C++

If you have 20MB of space available on a CF or SD card,
           you can install ZGCC, a build of the
           GNU C and C++ compilers which run on the Zaurus!
           (People have even had luck compiling Qtopia applications
           using it!) 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
Java

IBM's Jikes editor, which is available
           on ZaurusZone. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
Perl

You can get Perl from the Familiar (Linux-on-iPaq) feed,
         http://familiar.handhelds.org/familiar/releases/v0.5.1/packages/armv41 

Source: Gilles Fedak

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
Perl

You can also get Perl from the Debian project,
        here.
         Be sure to get the
         "*_arm.deb" packages (eg, "perl-base_5.6.1-7_arm.deb" and
         "perl_5.6.1-7-arm.deb").

         Then open the  and use the command
         "dpkg-deb -xX ..._arm.deb" to
         unpack it.  It will end up in a "DEBIAN" directory.
         Use the Unix "mv" to move the files (...) and
         create symlinks, if needed.
 

Source: Yu-Phing Ong

Last updated: 2002.Apr.08
 
Python

http://www.riverbankcomputing.co.uk/pyqt/ provides selever IPKs of Python sized for the
           Zaurus.  They also furnish the PyQt Python binding for Qtopia,
           which allows you to program Qt applications using Python! 

Source: Gilles Fedak

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


What editors can I use to program the Zaurus?

VI

The VI editor comes with the Zaurus.  You can just open a
          and type "vi filename". 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
tkcEditor

theKompany.com has a
         commercial editor for the Zaurus which does color syntax highlighting
         for a number of languages (PHP, SQL, HTML, C/C++),
         has word-completion, vertical and horizontal selection, and other
         programmer-friendly features.  It's
         available
         here. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
EIDE

The EIDE editor, written in Java, is an editor
         for developing Java programs which can be used on the Zaurus. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
XiTE

XiTE is a port
         of the Scintilla source code editor. 

Source: Giles Fedak

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 



System
How do I get a Shell prompt on this thing?

Install the Terminal program

By default, the Zaurus (and most Sharp-released software updates)
         does not come with a terminal program you can use to get a shell
         prompt to run the familiar Linux commands (like 'ls',
         'cp', 'ping', etc.).

         The standard  program (an embedded version of the
         KDE project's "Konsole")
         is available from the
         MyZaurus.com
         'Downloads' page.


         A useful alternative to Sharp's Terminal is a version which contains
         'tabs', allowing you to run multiple terminals in one window.
         Embedded-Konsole-Tabs is available at the
         Zaurus SourceForge project site.
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 


What does 'Flashing the Zaurus' mean?

Installing a new/upgraded set of base software

When Sharp releases updates to the core software for the Zaurus
         (the Linux kernel, drivers, and standard applications) on
         their download
         site, or when third parties (like the Open Source project
         OpenZaurus
         release alternative updates, you install them by copying them
         to the 16MB FlashROM inside the Zaurus.

         When you reboot, the new system will 'unpack' itself into RAM and
         you'll have an upgraded Zaurus!  (Note: Flashing typically,
         but not always, causes all of your current data and installed
         programs to be wiped, so you'll want to sync or back-up first!)
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.29
 


How do I tell what ROM I have right now?

System Info. will tell you.

The  application will usually show you, under the
         'Version' tab. 

Applies to:  ROM(s) 1.10 and later

Last updated: 2002.Mar.31
 


How do you flash the Zaurus?

Copy a ROM-image to a CF card and do a special reboot

The 'README' text file that typically comes along with a
         ROM-image explains all of this, but to summarize:
         
         Back up your data, if you don't want it lost forever!
         
Switch 'Battery Cover Lock' to 'Replace Battery' and remove the
           battery cover.
         
Connect the Zaurus to A/C power
         
Press and hold the [C] + [D] keys, and push [Reset]
           on the back of the Zaurus.
         
Wait for the  and  lights to turn off
           (it should take about 3 minutes)
         
Push [Reset] again
         
Replace battery cover and switch 'Battery Cover Lock' back to
           'Normal Operation'
         
Push and hold  to turn the Zaurus back on.
         
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 


What ROMimages work with what Zauruses?

1.x for SL-5000D and 2.x for SL-5500

The SL-5500 models currently have ROMs in the 2.x range.
         The SL-5000D developer models have ROMs in corresponding 1.x range.
         It's not possible to install the wrong ROM on the wrong model of
         Zaurus 

Source: Jason Perlow

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


Do I NEED a CF card to flash the Zaurus?

Yes - They can only be flashed using CF cards

You must have a recognized, Windows format (FAT16) CF memory card
         to flash the Zaurus.  SD cards won't work, and you currently cannot
         do it via the USB cradle or a serial cable.  (Note: People have
         also used CF microdrives.) 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


What kernel is it running?

A 2.4 Linux Kernel

ROM 1.12/1.13 uses 2.4.6 

Applies to: SL-5500 running ROM(s) 1.12/1.13

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 
Check under System Info.

Launch the  application, and go to the
           "Version" tab. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 
Check using the 'uname' command

Open the , and then run the command
           'uname -a' to
           get the exact version of the Linux Kernel running on your Zaurus. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.30
 


Why does the system info. show 100% CPU usage?

This is to save power

100% System CPU usage (the green line) in the
            display is normal.
           The powersaving functions of the Zaurus's hardware perform
           better when the CPU is active.  As applications require CPU,
           the red line will go up, and the green line typically goes down
           the same amount. 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 


Does memory work like on PalmOS?

No - Memory and storage are split, like regular computers

Unlike PalmOS, where memory (for running programs) and
         storage space (for installing programs and storing
         databases (the Palm's application-centric method for storing
         data, instead of using files)) are shared, the Zaurus splits
         the 64MB of RAM between memory (for running programs), and
         storage (for a Linux "ext2" filesystem). 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


Where's all the memory the Zaurus is supposed to have? (Shouldn't it total to 64MB?)

Half of it is being used for storage

Of the 64MB on the Zaurus SL-5500 (32MB on the SL-5000D),
         typically half of it is used for storage.  If you add the total
         memory with the total internal storage (listed in the
          app.), it should add up to just under 64MB. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
The 16MB ROM is read-only

The 16MB ROM in the Zaurus is not what is listed as
         "Internal Storage" in the  app.
         It contains the base system, including the built-in applications
         (look in "/usr/QtPalmtop.rom/", for example),
         and is not writable.  (It is only ever written to when you
         flash the Zaurus. See above.) 

Source: David Hedbor

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
Available memory includes "Cached" as well as "Free"

When looking in the  app. under the "Memory"
         tab, only the red, "Used" part of the memory is actually not
         available.  To get an idea of how much RAM is available for
         new programs to use, total up all of the other values, not just
         the dark blue "Free" part. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


Why do I keep running out of memory?

The SL-5000D (developer model) Zaurus has only 32MB of RAM.

Some of the Sharp ROMs (1.10, 1.12) split this RAM up more
          evenly, providing less RAM for programs to run in (memory), and more
          space for programs and files to be installed in (filesystem).

          Try using a different ROM which provides more RAM, or use a
          'hacked' ROM (like those made by Paul Flinders) which use
          an SD card for the entire filesystem, leaving almost all 32MB of
          RAM available for programs to run in.
 

Applies to: SL-5000D running ROM(s) 1.10/1.12

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 
Run fewer programs in "Fast load" mode.

Click-and-hold the icon for an application in the
         'Applications' tab and un-check the
         "Fast load (consumes memory)" option.

          By default, most ROMs have the 'Address Book',
         'Calendar' and 'Todo List' applications set to
         "Fast load".
 

Last updated: 2002.Mar.28
 


Can I adjust the ratio of memory to storage?

SL-5000D users can use a different ROM

See above: "The SL-5000D (developer model) Zaurus has only 32MB of
         RAM". 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 
Create a swapfile in Internal storage

Creating a swapfile in internal storage will provide more space
         for programs to run (virtual memory), while using some of the
         storage space.  While a swapfile on the ramdisk is less efficient
         than actually changing the ratio of memory-to-storage, it is
         more flexible (no need to install a new ROM, and it can be
         done without rebooting).

         See "Set up a 'swap' file on the card" under the
         Expansion Slots and Cards
         section.
 

Source: Howard R. Abbey

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 


What's the root password?

By default, it is blank

Unfortunately, the default password for the user "root" on
         the Zaurus is blank.  Presumably, it can be changed by running the
         "passwd" command from within the 
         program.  Whether or not this breaks anything is currently unknown.
         (It seems to work ok with QtopiaDesktop under Linux) 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


How do I tell how long my Zaurus has been running?

Run 'uptime'

If you launch the  and run the Unix command
         "uptime", it will show you how long the Zaurus has been
         running - that is, unsuspended (like you'd see on a Linux 
         laptop).  Unfortunately, this is not the same as the uptime on a
         desktop - the amount of since the system was last rebooted. 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 
Run 'last'

If you launch the  and run the Unix command
         "last", it will show you a log of what users have
         recently logged into your Zaurus (eg, over a network connection)
         as well as when the system was rebooted.  Unfortunately, though,
         since the time and date is not set the very first time the Zaurus
         is booted (or booted after flashing the ROM), the first reboot
         date will be inaccurate. 

Source: Brian J. Fox

Last updated: 2002.Apr.01
 


Are any Linux-style logs stored on the Zaurus?

...

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


What shell does/can the Zaurus use?

BASH

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 
...

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.06
 


Can I use AT or CRON to wake the Zaurus up?

...

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 
Use uschedule

... 

Last updated: 2002.Apr.07
 






Compiled by Bill Kendrick,
bill@newbreedsoftware.com

The Unofficial

For the SL-5500 and SL-5000D Personal Mobile Tool

Compiled by Bill Kendrick
bill@newbreedsoftware.com

Table of Contents

General

Character Input

Software

Hardware

LCD Display

Batteries and Charging

Expansion Slots and Cards

IR Port

`Syncing and Sharp IO Port`

`Networking`

Accessories

User Interface

Audio

Graphics

Community

Programming

System

The Unofficial

For the SL-5500 and SL-5000D Personal Mobile Tool

Compiled by Bill Kendrick bill@newbreedsoftware.com

Table of Contents

Compiled by Bill Kendrick
bill@newbreedsoftware.com