REVIEW: "SHARP Zaurus Video Manual" from RUPP Technology Corporation

by R.J. (George) Czajkowski

I recently had an opportunity to view "SHARP Zaurus Video Manual" developed by RUPP Technology for Zaurus 5x00 series K-PDA.  In the past, I always found watching a video much more enjoyable than reading a printed manual.  In addition, I figured that such a review would constitute a good refresher course and maybe even let me learn a few new tricks.

So I plugged the tape into my VCR and hit "Play" button.  The first thing I noticed, after the opening titles were over, was a little time counter in the lower right corner of the screen.  This counter, when used in conjunction with the enclosed index card, lets the viewer advance or rewind the tape to a specific topic, like "Note"s setup" or "Filer".  I found it very handy.

The entire visual training course is conducted by David Willis, who starts with an introduction to Zaurus interface and than takes the viewer on a step by step tour of the built-in applications.  There is a lot of good examples on how to use various features and even a brand new user should not have any problems with quickly learning how to take full advantage of this amazing palmtop.  The entire tape is 2 hour long and provides a good coverage of almost all applications represented by the permanent icons on both sides of the unit's display, with one noticeable exception - the Utilities and Preferences found under Tools icon are not included in this video manual.

I found this tape very entertaining and an excellent way to refresh my knowledge of Zaurus.  It not only gave me an excellent overview of the unit and its potential, but also let me gain a better knowledge of certain tricks and features, especially in Spreadsheet, Filer and Outline applications.

In summary I would highly recommend this video to all new users who would like to quickly learn about Zaurus and its main applications without spending many hours of reading through the printed manual.  I would also advice old users, even those very familiar with the unit to take this refresher course, as it no doubt will result in their increased productivity.

"SHARP Zaurus Video Manual" is available directly from RUPP Technology Corporation for $59.99 US (however, please check with RUPP for special pricing and promotion).  RUPP can be contacted at 1-800-844-7775 (or 602-941-4789) or at their excellent Web site located at http://www.rupp.com.

P.S. Please note that I am in no way affiliated with RUPP Technology Corporation or SHARP Corporation.

R.J. (George) Czajkowski
*SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX user*
Internet: georgec@cyberus.ca
CIS: 74131,2121

Copyrights 1997 by R.J. (George) Czajkowski.  No part of this document can be copied or re-transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent from the author.