The Unofficial
Zaurus
FAQ

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

Compiled by Bill Kendrick
bill@newbreedsoftware.com

Last update: 2002.Apr.17 13:59
The latest version is available here:
http://www.newbreedsoftware.com/zaurus-faq/

Table of Contents

General

  1. What is the Zaurus?

  2. How does it relate to other Zauruses?

  3. Why should I care about the Zaurus?

  4. Where can I buy a Zaurus in the US?

  5. Where can I buy a Zaurus in the UK?

  6. Where can I buy the Zaurus in Canada?

  7. Where can I buy the Zaurus in the UK?

  8. Where can I buy the Zaurus in Japan?

  9. Where can I buy a Zaurus in Germany?

  10. Where else can I buy a Zaurus?

Character Input

  1. I think my FN key is stuck / I can't type normal characters on the keyboard!

  2. I think my SHIFT key is stuck / I can't type lowercase characters on the keyboard!

  3. How do I make a | (vertical bar, or pipe) using the keyboard?

  4. How do I make [ and ] (brackets) using the keyboard?

  5. How do I make { and } (braces) using the keyboard?

  6. How do I make a ` (grave) using the keyboard?

  7. How do I make a ^ (caret) using the keyboard?

  8. How do I make a \ (backslash) using the keyboard?

  9. Where's the Escape key?

  10. How do I send CONTROL characters (to the Terminal, for example) using the keyboard?

  11. Can I use a regular or stow-away keyboard with the Zaurus?

Software

  1. Where can I buy software for the Zaurus?

  2. Where can I download software (free or otherwise) for the Zaurus?

  3. How do I install software onto the Zaurus?

  4. How can I upgrade software? 'Add/Remove' shows the new IPK is already installed!

  5. Is Hancom Office available for the SL-5000D models?

  6. I get 'Bus Errors' when running programs

  7. I heard you can play Quake on the Zaurus

  8. Can I run X-Window System programs on the Zaurus?

  9. How do I switch to X-Window from Qtopia?

  10. Can I get back to Qtopia from X-Window?

  11. Can I uninstall the pre-installed software? (e.g., Java demos)

  12. Can I run PalmOS software on my Zaurus?

  13. I heard MySQL works on the Zaurus!

  14. How can I see what files are inside an .ipk file?

Hardware

  1. I thought this thing had a built-in keyboard! Where is it?

  2. My Zaurus won't slide into the cradle!

  3. What are these holes on the back of the Zaurus?

  4. Is the new SL-5500 Zaurus compatible with the Japanese MI-E21?

  5. What's the difference between the SL-5000D and the SL-5500?

  6. What does the Zaurus look like inside?

LCD Display

  1. How do I turn the frontlight off?

  2. How easy is the display to read with the light off?

  3. My screen seems pushed over to the left.

Batteries and Charging

  1. Can I use the A/C adapter without the cradle?

  2. Is there a car adapter for the Zaurus?

  3. The battery status doesn't seem to accurate

  4. How long does the battery last?

  5. Do I lose all my data if I let the battery drain completely, or remove the battery?

  6. Why do I have to charge the Zaurus for 24 hours when I first get it?

See also:

Expansion Slots and Cards

  1. What do CF, SD and MMC stand for?

  2. Can I use MMC cards instead of SD cards? They look the same.

  3. I heard CF cards were compatible with PCMCIA cards. Can I use PCMCIA on my Zaurus?

  4. Are CF and SD memory cards automatically 'mounted' when I insert them into my Zaurus?

  5. What format are CF and SD cards usually in?

  6. How do I get to the files on my SD/CF cards when they're in the Zaurus?

  7. Am I supposed to 'Unmount' CF and SD memory cards before physically removing them?

  8. How do I 'Unmount' CF and SD memory cards?

  9. I tried to 'unmount' a card using 'Eject', but the icon doesn't go away!

  10. How can I write to SD/CF cards using my PC?

  11. Can I use CF microdrives with the Zaurus?

  12. Can I use a CF or SD card as memory, instead of file storage space?

  13. My Internal storage space is running out!

  14. Can I change the filesystem type on an SD or CF card?

  15. What other kinds of CF cards can I use?

  16. What other kinds of SD cards can I use?

IR Port

  1. I can't seem to receive beams from other people.

  2. How do I beam files/documents from my Zaurus?

  3. Can the IR port be used to talk to cellphones?

  4. Can the Zaurus be used as a remote control (e.g., for TVs)?

    • Not effectively; the range is too short
      ...

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

       

Syncing and Sharp IO Port

  1. 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

       

  2. 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

       

    • Not with Evolution, at the moment
      There are currently no plans from Ximian for Evolution to support the Zaurus. Open Source developers are working on this, however. There is already a Perl script which will sync the Zaurus' calendar with Evolution, here.

       
      Source: Chayim I. Kirshen, Roger Leardi
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  3. 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

       

  4. 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

       

  5. 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

       

  6. Nothing happens when I try to sync using Windows

    • Disable Personal Firewall
      Some versions of Windows (e.g., WinXP) 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

       

    • Try rebooting the Zaurus
      For some reason, this sometimes helps. Reboot the Zaurus from the 'Shutdown' application.

       
      Source: Stephan Kremer
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.17

       

    • Under Windows XP, try disabling and reenabling the connection
      1. Follow the directions in the manual to set up the USB device
      2. If step 1 went ok, you should have another local area connection called "SL Series (NDIS 5)"
      3. If at first the Zaurus and XP do not communicate (e.g., no inbound packets can get through), continue...
      4. Try right-clicking the new connection and select "Disable" and then "Enable". At this point, they should start talking
      5. From this point on, when you put the Zaurus in the cradle, the connection should get re-established, and things should work fine.

      One thing to remember, you have to turn on the Zaurus to get the connection established.

       
      Source: Danny Hyun
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  7. How do I use the cradle under Windows?

    • For TCP/IP over USB under Windows 2000
      • Configure Windows 2000 for connection sharing. In the Network control panel, select your normal Internet connection (properties). Selecting the sharing tab and click on 'Enable...', then select the Local Area Connection that connects to the Zaurus. This will force the USB interface (SL Network) to have an IP address of 192.168.0.1 (netmask 255.255.255.0)
      • In the SL Intellisync, select "Communications Options..." and put in an IP address that's on the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.0.200)
      • On the Zaurus, set up your Internet connection ('Internet Wizard' under 'Settings') to have that same IP address (192.168.0.200), and netmask (255.255.255.0). You probably should also set the default route as the IP address that Windows assigned (192.168.0.1)
      • Put your DNS entries into the Zaurus
      • At this point, the Zaurus should be able to communicate. If it cannot, execute this command in 'Terminal'
        route add -net 0.0.0.0 gw 192.168.0.1
      • If you have a proxy server, Opera does not support the automatic proxy configuratio, so you'll need to enter the HTTP and FTP proxies.

       
      Source: Ben Hui
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.17

       

  8. 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

       

  9. 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

       

  10. QtopiaDesktop for Linux crashes when I try to install it!

    • It currently doesn't work with KDE 3.0
      QtopiaDesktop appears to crash when running under KDE 3.0. Try setting your "LD_LIBRARY_PATH" environment variable to point to the directory that contains the libs that came with QtopiaDesktop. This will cause it to load the "qt.so.3" library that came with it, instead of the version installed by KDE3. (You'll also need to create a symlink from "libqt.so.3" to "libqt.so.3.0.3" in the directory containing the libraries shipped with QtopiaDesktop, if this hasn't been done already.)

       
      Source: Jason Dixon, Dan Carter
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  11. I heard you can't use the built-in keyboard with the serial cable plugged in

    • Correct, it is too large
      Unfortunately the cable which Sharp released (shown here) is far too large. Hopefully a 3rd party will make a more sensible alternative.

       
      Source: David Murphy
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.15

       

Networking

  1. 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 (e.g., 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

       

  2. 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

       

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

    • Convert desktop Opera to Zaurus Opera using Perl
      There's a Perl script which you can run on your Zaurus (and possibly on a desktop) which will convert Opera for Windows' bookmarks to Opera for Zaurus' format.

       
      Source: John Mayson
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.15

       

    • Converting them yourself
      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.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.15

       

  4. 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 'Terminal', 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

       

  5. 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" through "ttya7".

       
      Source: Brian F. Morgan, Peter W. Borders, Paul Flinders, Benjamin Meyer
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.17

       

  6. 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 'Terminal':

      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

       

  7. 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

       

  8. 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

       

  9. 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

       

  10. 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

       

  11. 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

       

  12. 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

       

    • It's under development
      A tool called 'blueZ' has been tested on the Zaurus, and works with a Nokia 6310. Expect more soon

       
      Source: Stefan M.
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.15

       

  13. 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

       

  14. 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

       

  15. Is there a way to mount Windows SMB shares on the Zaurus?

    • There are SMB ports which may work
      The "Familiar" Linux-on-iPAQ project includes a number of SMB packages, which may or may not work. Try searching for "smb" at ipkg find.

       
      Source: Jason Dixon
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.11

       

See also:

Accessories

  1. 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

       

  2. 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

       

  3. Are there any VGA adapters that work with the Zaurus?

    • Not currently
      There are a number of CF cards with VGA output (for use on PocketPC and laptops), like the Voyager from Colorgraphic. Currently, though, none are explicitly supported by the Zaurus.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.09

       

  4. I lost my stylus! What can I do!?

    • Order a replacement SL-5000D stylus from Sharp
      While it appears styluses still aren't available at any retailers, it seems Sharp accepts orders for them. The part number is CPEN1008YC01. You can call Sharp's tech. support at: 1-877-794-8675. (This is the plastic stylus.)

       
      Source: James Ebertsch, 'Brutus'
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.16

       

    • Order a replacement SL-5500 stylus from Sharp
      While it appears styluses still aren't available at any retailers, it seems Sharp accepts orders for them. The part number is CPENP1008YC01. You can call Sharp's tech. support at: 1-877-794-8675. (This is the part-metal stylus.)

       
      Source: 'Brutus'
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.16

       

User Interface

  1. 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 [Menu] button can currently be assigned the "Menu Popup" function.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Mar.28

       

  2. 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 [Menu] button cause the 'Qt' menu to pop-up.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Mar.28

       

    • Has it been reprogrammed?
      Make sure the [Menu] button was assigned the "Menu Popup" function within the 'Application Key' application.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Mar.28

       

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

    • Install the QPE-Rotation and Qt-Embedded-Rotation packages
      To rotate applications (e.g., 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

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

    • There is no built-in microphone
      The 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

       

  2. 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 speaker icon 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

       


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Community

  1. 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 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

       

  2. 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 in order to use it.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.05

       

    • Zaurus@LL
      Zaurus.LovesLinux.com includes web-based forums.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.07

       

  3. 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

       

  4. Are there any Zaurus-related Usenet Newsgroups

    • news.le.org gateways the SourceForge Zaurus mailing lists
      A community member has been gatewaying the various Zaurus mailing lists (from the Zaurus SourceForge project site) to newsgroups on his server since almost the beginning. (Posts are set to expire after 6 months, so you can look at some pretty old messages.)

       
      Source: Tin Le
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.11

       

    • Check general PDA/palmtop/handheld newsgroups
      Groups like comp.sys.handhelds and comp.sys.palmtops are general Usenet groups about PDAs (not specific to particular hardware or operating systems).

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.11

       

Programming

  1. 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

       

  2. 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 (e.g., "perl-base_5.6.1-7_arm.deb" and "perl_5.6.1-7-arm.deb").

      Then open the 'Terminal' 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

       

  3. What editors can I use to program the Zaurus?

    • VI
      The VI editor comes with the Zaurus. You can just open a 'Terminal' 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++, XML, Python, Perl, DTML (Zope) and ColdFusion), has word-completion, vertical and horizontal selection, and other programmer-friendly features. It's available here.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

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

       
      Source: Jim Murff
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.13

       

    • XiTE
      XiTE is a port of the Scintilla source code editor.

       
      Source: Giles Fedak
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

       

  4. How do I make my Qtopia application 'Fast-Load'-able?

    • Don't call qApp->quit()
      In your C++ source, make sure that you simply close the window for your application, rather than quitting it completely with "qApp->quit();". You should also call "showMainWidget()" on the QPEApplication instance, rather than on the QApplication-inherited "setMainWidget()".

       
      Source: Kent Sandvik
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

    • Add CanFastload=1 to the application's .desktop file
      The "Fast-Load" feature is enabled or disabled on a per-application basis. Add the following line to your application's ".desktop" file to enable it:
      CanFastload=1

       
      Source: Kent Sandvik
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  5. How can I add Help pages for my application?

    • Place English HTML files in /opt/Qtopia/help/html
      Place your HTML help files in the directory "/opt/Qtopia/help/html". Name the file the same as the executable, with ".html" at the end. (e.g., "coolprog"'s help file would be "/opt/Qtopia/help/html/coolprog.ht,l")

       
      Source: Kent Sandvik, Ben Hui
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

    • Place non-English versions in /opt/Qtopia/help/lang/html
      Place your HTML help files in the directory "/opt/Qtopia/help/lang/html", where lange is the code for the language (e.g., "de" for German).

       
      Source: Kent Sandvik
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  6. Where can I learn more about programming the Zaurus?

    • HOWTO create packages ('.ipk') for the Zaurus
      This HOWTO at ZaurusZone explains the package format.

       
      Source: Benjamin Meyer
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.17

       

    • Howto set up your development environment (under Linux)
      This HOWTO explains how to set up the cross-compiler and development environment to compile Zaurus applications using a Linux desktop.

       
      Source: Benjamin Meyer
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.17

       

System

  1. How do I get a Shell prompt on this thing?

    • Install the Terminal program
      By default, the Zaurus (and most Sharp-released software updates) do 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 'Terminal' 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

       

  2. 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

       

  3. How do I tell what ROM I have right now?

    • System Info. will tell you.
      The 'System Info' application will usually show you, under the 'Version' tab. (If it doesn't show you, you're running 1.02, and really SHOULD update.)

       
      Applies to: ROM(s) 1.10 and later
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  4. 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:
      1. Back up your data, if you don't want it lost forever!
      2. Switch 'Battery Cover Lock' to 'Replace Battery' and remove the battery cover.
      3. Connect the Zaurus to A/C power
      4. Press and hold the [C] + [D] keys, and push [Reset] on the back of the Zaurus.
      5. Wait for the 'Email LED' and 'Power LED' lights to turn off (it should take about 3 minutes)
      6. Push [Reset] again
      7. Replace battery cover and switch 'Battery Cover Lock' back to 'Normal Operation'
      8. Push and hold [Cancel] to turn the Zaurus back on.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Mar.30

       

  5. 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

       

  6. 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 can not do it via the USB cradle or a serial cable. (Note: People have also used CF microdrives.)

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.01

       

  7. 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 'System Info' application, and go to the "Version" tab.

       
      Last updated: 2002.Mar.30

       

    • Check using the 'uname' command
      Open the 'Terminal', 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

       

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

    • This is to save power
      100% System CPU usage (the green line) in the 'System Info' display is normal. This is the Linux kernel process, "kapm-idled." When it is 'running,' the CPU is actually halted and not drawing power. It's perfectly normal. As other actual applications require CPU, the red line will go up, and the green line typically goes down the same amount.

       
      Source: Roy Murphy
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.10

       

  9. 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

       

  10. 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 'System Info' 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 'System Info' 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 'System Info' 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

       

  11. 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

       

  12. 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

       

  13. 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 'Terminal' program. Whether or not this breaks anything is currently unknown. (It seems to work ok with QtopiaDesktop under Linux)

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.01

       

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

    • Run 'uptime'
      If you launch the 'Terminal' 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 'Terminal' and run the Unix command "last", it will show you a log of what users have recently logged into your Zaurus (e.g., over a network connection) as well as when the system was rebooted. Unfortunately, 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

       

  15. Are any Linux-style logs stored on the Zaurus?

    • ...
      ...

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

       

  16. What shell does/can the Zaurus use?

    • BASH
      ...

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

       

    • ...
      ...

       
      Last updated: 2002.Apr.06

       

  17. 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