Messages

16

General Discussion / Zaurus Sl-5500 Device Anylisis

« on: October 23, 2005, 08:22:08 am »

Oh and sniffing the wifi networks when you are waiting in the queue at the supermarket is geeky fun too
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LOL you do that too?  ...

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 Man...we've ALL done that  

 I used to do little warwalking surveys at work (possibly not such a bright idea since I worked at a government installation and signed away my legal/constituational rights whenever I set foot on the property...), security was pretty good, I only ever discovered one unsecured AP and successfully reached the internet (I reported it of course).  But one day I forgot to turn it off as I drove home.  25 minutes of driving and I found like 300 networks...most of them WIDE open.

 "Sweetie Z...we're going to do GREAT things together...  "

 That's one of the main things I miss about the my old 5500 (sold to help finance the purchase of a C-1000).  Kismet and Wellenreiter were pretty simple to get up and running on them.  Though I've heard others have had success, I still haven't gotten them to work reliably on my C-1000.  Wellenreiter works, but crashes seconds after it starts displaying info.  It's like a wifi-snarfing-geek-tease...



 As for the paper.  Yeah...get it proof read, but other than that I enjoyed reading it.  It touched on all the major points and was pretty well articulated.  The conclusion is spot on as I'm sure most other Z owners/users will agree...

 The one thing I might have done differently had I written it was give a bit more review of the keyboard since the topic is about interacting with the device (and that was one of the features that attracted ME to the zaurus line).  But then you might have been focusing more specifically on the soft interaction aspect...

 Good job, and thanks for sharing...

17

General Discussion / Any News For The Next Zaurus?

« on: October 23, 2005, 07:44:15 am »

Yeah...


 And now that we're beyond the paranoia we can think about the possible benfits to the Z line itself.

 If this thing takes off who knows what 'satellite' technology might end up in the Zaurus.

 A gen or two from now we might see the 'Ultra Zaurus SL-CX9000 Super Pocket Power Servant', with optional W-SIM OR internal hard drive.  Then you could choose if you want a phone replacement or a media device with all the other great stuff we've been seeing since the 5500...

 ONWARD INTO THE FUTURE !!!!!


 (Though admitedly, since the Zero-thingy is based on PHS there'd have to be a similar new tech released for GSM/GPRS for anyone outside of asia to benfit...but who knows what tommorow may bring...)

18

C1000/3x00 General discussions / Hard Drive Question

« on: October 23, 2005, 02:07:10 am »

Ah, Meanie...so useful...so knowledgeable...  

 As for not being able to install to the internal microdrive,

       Wha...?    


 What's the point of having an internal hdd then?  Yeah it's nice for movies and MP3's, but...dude...that's messed up.

 Might it be possible to reformat and remount the internal harddrive to be  /hdd2 ?  Basicaly FOOL the installer into using it ?  I'm thinking not (and if it was it would probably require a custom ROM of some type I should think), but it's just a guess...

19

C1000/3x00 General discussions / Request Gps Recommendations

« on: October 22, 2005, 10:44:59 pm »

I've browsed around this form in it's many parts and didn't find a definitive recommendation for a CF GPS card to use with my C-1000.  So, at the risk of duplicating such a thread that I simply overlooked, I'm gonna ask if anyone out there can suggest such a card for the C-1000 ?  I'm currently using the basic Sharp rom, but fully intend to lock Cacko when it gets released.  

  Japanese maps are a definite plus as well, since I'm currently living in Japan...and frequently getting lost (though I do usally end up encountering cool stuff anyway...).


 So if anyone has some info, or even just wants to say 'Wake up idiot, this and been asked and answerd in thread XXXXX !' I'd sure be glad for the help...

 Thanks all!

20

C1000/3x00 General discussions / Hard Drive Question

« on: October 22, 2005, 10:29:03 pm »

You mean it doesn't ask you where you want to install them ?

 On both my 5500 and my current C-1000 if you are installing ipks it always asks where you want to install them via a little pop-up window (assuming you have media available other than local ram/flash...I usually set mine up with an SD card that is nigh permanently mounted and everything get's installed on that).  True, certain programs REQUIRE that they be installed in one place or the other, but it STILL usually asks you, and assumes you know what you're doing...

 I'm amazed your unit is not doing this.  Do you have a C-3000 or a C-3100 ?

21

General Discussion / Where Do I Get A 5600?

« on: October 21, 2005, 06:31:36 am »

On the subject of typing you are pretty well definitely better off with a C series.  The CxK models are the best with both good layout and tactile feel, but I think even the membrane style Cxxx models were better for straightout typing than the 5x00/6K were.

 Standing, sitting at a table, sitting on a bus,  lying down...for typing the C's really are more enjoyable...not to mention faster and more accurate.  I've ownd both kinds (5500/C1000) and that was my experience.  I actually have a very nice folding usb keyboard that I use with the C-1000, but I've only used it few times to write REALLY long emails since the KB on the C-1000 works so well.

 Also, if you actually WANT to 'thumb type' as you would basically be forced to with the portrait style units, you can simply flip the screen of a C series all the way back and do so...except you have more room between keys that the 5x00/6K would.  Of course if your hands are REALLY small that could actually be a bad thing...

 A word on your criterion of being able to use the device from day one...The CxK models are still light on apps written precisely for them.  Many of the older hombrews out there do work just fine...but there's a number of them that don't.  Your immediate  ROM selection is also going to be significantly wider with a 5x00/Cxxx rig (all of us are still breathlessly awaiting Cacko for the C-1000 and C-3100).  But that's today...I don't know how vigorously those models are still being developed for.  Undoubtedly some people still are, but I think a lot of the major homebrew talent out there right now is concentrating on the later models...

 I think most people posting here will agree the CxK models are definitely worth the extra money in power, features, longevity, and quality...it's just a matter of being able to afford them.

22

General Discussion / Any News For The Next Zaurus?

« on: October 20, 2005, 10:16:18 am »

Looks like I might have been right.  Whithout flexing my imagination too much I can see this thing being the result of a board meeting about 'what we should do to the Zaurus next...' at sharp HQ..

 But this new device won't necessarily canibalize the Z line.

 Though it wouldn't really surprise me...

23

General Discussion / Where Do I Get A 5600?

« on: October 20, 2005, 02:50:55 am »

Here's my soundbyte on the subject.

 First off, you mention you've never had a PDA like device before.  And you also ask what accessories you will need (more on that later).  The obvious counter question is what do you plan to do with this device ?  If you're looking for straight PIM (Personal information Managment) a Palm device of some type is probably a better fit.  But if you're looking for a device that can do basic PIM and you can tinker with and use your MAD LiNuX skillz on, the Z is the way to go.

 ebay is inevitably going to have 5600 on it sometime in the near future if it doesn't right at the moment.  And if you get tired of waiting there are ALWAYS 5500's available on there.

 Amazon.com is also someplace else you might try.  They quite often have Zaurii for sale.  Occasionally even 5600's.


 As far as I know ALL 5600's have a 400mhz processor.

 About this 5600 thing though.  It'll cost, but you might want to consider the 6000 instead.  It's got a better screen and a couple other features that people really seem to like.  Assuming of course that it's the native portrait /tablet layout that you want.  Cause if you're just looking for a good Z w/ 400+ mhz of guts I'd say get yourself a C-1000 or C-3000.  With the apearance of the C-3100 the 1k's and 3k's are hitting the 2nd hand circuit pretty strong at just about one year or less of age. The USB host is a nice feature to have...and the 5600 does NOT have it...

But that will likely mean eBay.  So a word on eBay...

 I both buy and occassionally sell on eBay.  I've only had 2 negative experiences during that time.  One buying, one selling.  But I've had about 100 GOOD experiences.  Just make sure you read the descriptions VERY carefully.  And if you have a question ASK (there's a button in most/all adds that will let you email the seller).  If he/she doesn't respond or gives you attitude DON'T BID.

 But to be honest, you're not too likely to get your unit and all those accessories you want for under $300 (US).  I sold a 5500 on ebay a few months ago with the accessories you mentioned and an IR keyboard and it went for about $300.  A 5600 with twice the horsepower would likely go for more.

 And if you buy used (from eBay or amazon or anywhere really) I'd advise you to expect to spend an extra $30 (US) for a new battery.  'The battery still runs great!' is a HIGHLY subjective statement...but you see it in many ads.  

 As for other Linux  PDA's...thus far the Z is the only franchise that has really seen anything like wide spread success.  I tried to get ahold of a GMate Yopy a while back, but missed it by $2 on ebay.  I've since been told that while the Yopy was kinda cool, it's probably not worth the effort of looking for one...as the community is all but gone...

 On the horizon we have the Nokia 770 Internet tablet, which isn't to be a pure PDA per se, but it will be running linux, and the (pocketable) Linux community seems to be interested in it. You might check it out a bit on-line...it's not out yet.

 There is also Unications 'Magpie PDA' (the dubious "Personl DREAM Assistant).  It's not out yet either, but it's specs look intruiging (though it's cpu is only going to be ~200mhz).  And since their website seems to be down about 1/3 of the time I think this device could end up vaporware.  Keep your eye on it though.

 As per your question concerning what to think about people with lots of PDA's...all I can say is...it happens.  I started out getting a 5500 which was awesome.  But then I got curious about the Pocket PC world so I picked up one of them, then I wanted to run a few specific apps so I ended up with a Jornada 720 and a Mobilepro 790. I've since sold them all and now I've got a C-1000.

 It's just kinda happens when you start getting into it as a hobby (most multi device owners buy at least a couple of their devices and accessories used...and often that involves eBay...you really can save/recycle a lot of money if you use eBay responsibly).

 Many people on these boards have multiple Z's.  One for regular use and one as a test bed, or they are simply lagging in unloading the older one on the heals of aqcuiring the newer one.  And at this point I should probably add that this website has a Buy/Sell/Trade section that you might peruse or perhaps even throw a 'wanted' ad up on...


 As for accessories...again, it depends on what you want to do...but I would advise at least a softside case of some type ($10 - $15 for a basic one).  A screen protection applique is always a good idea (it is a good way to protect resale value).  Stylaii really depend on how well you keep track of your original stylus.  I didn't notice my 5500 having any problem retaining the stylus in it's little silo, so if you are good at keeping track of things like that you probably won't need more.  Many people here like the battery extenders that allow you to recharge your Z off of 4 rechargable AA batts...it's not a must, but it's handy.  A travel power adapter is a good thing to have as well.  If you plan to be using this for PIM a second cradle for work might be a good idea if you have a desktop at work (or in your summer home or whatever).  When purchasing I/O cards (bluetooth, wifi, lan, modem, etc)  I'd suggest perusing and posting in here before you buy one so you can verify compatibility.  Look through the threads first though, many devices have already been tried and remarked upon...

 That's about all I got for the moment.  Wish you well and I hope this helps.  It's longer than I intended and slightly editorialised, but I'm sure Meanie, Speculatrix, Ragnorak et all will be along soon to correct my deficiencies  

 Take care!

24

Accessories / Case Suggestions

« on: October 19, 2005, 09:07:41 am »

Older post, but I'll through down.

 I have used for a while a plastic index card box lined with a bit of cloth.  Hard(er) exterior, soft interior (I determined in a 7th grade experiment in designing a protective container for eggs that this usually works best). It was mainly the fact that the size was just about exactly right..

 But I actually have recently moved on to a generic Targus case that I picked up at Fry's for $10.  It's soft all around, but it has a nice inner pocket to hold a flat CF I/O card or data card of some type.

  I ws looking to pick up this hilarious case I found in Den Den town that had some Engrish on it (something like "ZERO Case - To protect for device from powerful Bang" or something like that) and was reinforced with metal framing in the sides and edges, but it was few milimeters to small.



 Edit : Well the case says "Zero*Shock - Bump 'n Bang Protection"  it still cracks me me up. But that probably just says more about me than it does the case...

25

General Discussion / Any News For The Next Zaurus?

« on: October 19, 2005, 08:50:30 am »

Well I love a good speculation session  

 I can not fault anyones wants thus far, all would be nice.  None of them really jump out at me, the C-1000 was nigh perfect for me (although having it fully ruggedized in it's exact dimensions and/or add integrated wifi would be nice).

 But as far as what I think sharp actually WILL do, I'd have to think like sharp for a minute.

  I actually encountered a zaurus in the wild (other than mine) for the first time.  A dude on the train was web surfing as we buzzed down the tokaido line.  That's right, the tokaido line. Cause this here is Japan...native country for the Z family. So basically I think it's the desires of the Japanese consummer base that Sharp will really be looking to sate.

 It's no secret that more and more mobile phones are edging into PDA territory. And some even speculate that the mobile phone will eventually render the stand alone PDA obsolete (personally, I think if you take out the phone guts, you have room to make the device that much more powerfull on the media front, and that will always apeal to someone). The Z is aparently king of the hill in the Japanese PDA market, so it's got that going for it, but it wouldn't surprise me if Sharp slowly or quickly tried to morph the Z into a phone of some type.  Maybe a wifi phone, or perhaps thay'll just integrate a microphone and offer an add on card so you have the option (Visor style) of turning it into a cell phone (keitai) of some type.

 Just one idle speculation...But if they really wanted to make the next Z attractive enough for the tinkering/enthusiast crowd to buy ANOTHER model, offering a version with intergrated wifi (or maybe even blue tooth) would be the smartest move.  But then they aren't actually marketing the Zaurus line outside of Japan, so it's really the wishes of the domestic proletariate that matters...

 Then again, dare I bring up the originator of all things 'i' (yes the iPod) , and say that flash memory is a possibility.  The C-3000 really seemed to spark things off for a while with it's massive storage.  I don't know for sure, but I think it might have had a hand in nudging Palm into producing the Lifedrive (for all the good it's done them).  It would fit sharps pattern of releasing only a few incremental changes with each new release to change the HDD to a 4gb slab of battery friendly flash (as speculated by others).  And with flash memory prices slowly dropping, it might even be economically feasible...if they can find some flash that will last as long as a hdd can be expected to.  The 'Nano' sure got peoples attention...

 Also, looking again at the increased emphasis on PMP's, adding a DSP or other video subsystem...or maybe even that enhanced screen everyone seems to want...could help the Z tap further into another market that is currently on the rise...

 All in all I definitely think the Z line has been steadily improving, no missteps or backtracking yet, so if sharp continues with new models I'll look forward to them, even if they are merely incrementaly improving...


 But yeah, just re-perused the other musings in here, and I agree...we've had 64mb of RAM and ~400mhz for quite a while now.  Yes, the Z was slightly ahead of it's time in getting THOSE specs when it did, but I think both those specs could stand to be bumped (significantly...like more than 4%...)

26

C1000/3x00 General discussions / Spaces In My Ssid...

« on: October 19, 2005, 08:01:53 am »

Thanks ya'll.  Spot on advice (though I didn't get a chance to test the %20 yet).

 I haven't gotten the Z working on this particular troublesome wireless network (but then I haven't gotten my laptop working with it either, so I begin to think the network it self might be slightly jacked), but I definitely was able to enter the SSID as my laptop seems to recognize it during the site scan.  

 As for ssid 'ANY' it didn't work on this particular network, but it randomly connected to something when I fired the Z up elsewhere...

 The instructions from Bolbit are right on (just in case someone is reading this looking for instructions).  After reading Meanies response I spent a couple hours trying to figure out which file to edit before I noticed some one else had posted with that exact info.  

 Thanks again all !

27

C1000/3x00 General discussions / Cacko Rom 1.23 For C1000 Progress

« on: October 18, 2005, 07:15:11 pm »

Rock on Mas-man!  Thanks for puttin' up with all our whining and bit chomping!!!

 (I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S ALMOST OUT!!!!!!!)        


( You too stubear, can't forget the peeps who created the Z in the first place...)

28

C1000/3x00 General discussions / Spaces In My Ssid...

« on: October 14, 2005, 03:27:50 am »

Anyone know how I can connect to an 'infrastructure' wifi netowork that has spaces in it's SSID ?  I keep trying to configure it manually, but my C1000 won't let me type in the spaces (and you might have noticed I even tried ascii code).  tyoing the correct ssid in the text editor and then using cut and paste didn't  work either.

 Any thoughts ?

 
 Also, I'll ask again, since nobidy responded to my earlier inquiry, does anyone know what Wellenreiter dies after about a minute of successful sniffing (it certainly finds things, but it shuts down showrtly after doing so).

 Thnks all!

29

General Discussion / Buy Zaurus In Japan.

« on: October 01, 2005, 06:52:49 pm »

I was a little surprised as well last night to find that there is little savings to be had by purchasing in the Akihabara as opossed to the online vendors.  Even when purchasing from other countries, with shipping added it`s only maybe $10 - $30 difference...and you get translation from most of the online vendors...

Go figure...

 Edit: I'll confirm Scot's statements.  Sofmap 5 in Osaka (not in Den Den town...one near the Osaka JR station).  Saw one there that looked to be in excellent shape for about $360.

30

General Discussion / Who are you and where are you from?

« on: September 16, 2005, 06:11:41 pm »

TsingTao (aka OddManOut; Omnitus; Sandman; SingWah)

 SF Bay area in California, USA
 (as of  Sept 29 '05 change that to Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture, Japan)

 Age: 25
 Single
 No kids yet (But I'm pretty tight with mum, da, and my sibs)


 Been working as a Network/Systems administrator (and occasional moving man) at the NASA/AMES Research Center out at Moffett Field, CA.  Now I'm switchin' gears for a little while to study Japanese down in the Nagoya area. Hopfully when I return in a year my next job will be a little heavier on networking and Unix/Linux and a little lighter on 'moving'...

 My father was and is a letter carrier (well for 3 more months anyway) on light duty due to an on the job car accident.  He's been the defacto 'IT Guy' at his station and throughout the Bay Area for special projects since about 1984, and he ran his own consulting buisness for a number of years. As such we've had PCs around the house as long as I can remember.  Back in the 80's and early 90's I was barely allowed to use them, since I graduated HS I've been buying/building/servicing most of the ones around our house.  I generally have 2 - 3 in my room at any one time.  Most are dual booted with Win2K or above and one or more linux distros.  I have the most experience with PCs and Windows, a little bit with Linux/Unix (studied in school and I'm tinkering more and more with it recreationally), and a tiny bit with Macs, though I've never owned one...

 My first handheld was a Cassiopeia I purchased in 2002 as a souvenier of my first trip to Japan.  I didn't use it too much.  Next I purchased a Zaurus SL-5500 off eBay to help me with some trouble I had getting up on time (imagine my surprise that it didn't have a built in alarm clock).  It did that and a whole lot more. Next I purchased an NEC Mobilepro 780.  I later acquired the ROM from a 790 and slapped it into the 780 so I could have HPC 2000 running on it.  NICE to type on, but finding software was hideous (made a nice Nokia 770-esque wireless coffee table internet appliance though...).  And it was really too big to lug around.  Next up I got an HP Jornada 720.  A Little tougher to type on, but more portable and more powerful.  Same limited OS though.  So then I bit the bullet and sold the Zaurus, Mobilepro and Jornada on ebay (with a truck load of accessories) and put the $800 I got towards a C-1000.  And that's pretty much it for now...  

 For my current accessory load, check my sig...

 Thanks!