#: 6056 S9/Sharp Zaurus 07-Mar-95 08:31:35 Sb: #6030-#Zaurus Vs HP200LX Fm: Scott Campbell (SHARP) 75300,2046 To: art schneiderman 76010,1304 (X) >> Do I need a SRAM card to extend main memory? Are there other things that require SRAM cards rather than Flash? I was thinking about getting one large (16Meg) Flash card and using it for everything. << SRAM cards can: 1. be used for backup (if used in this mode, only can be used for backup). 2. be used for loading add-on software programs 3. be used for storing main application data FLASH cards can: 1. be used for backup (if used in this mode, only can be used for backup). 2. be used for loading add-on software programs I hope this clears it up a bit. Let me know if you need more info. Regards, - Scott - #: 23279 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-Nov-95 15:57:55 Sb: #23217-SRAM vs. Flash? Fm: Scott Campbell (SHARP) 75300,2046 To: George Czajkowski 74131,2121 George, Here goes: >> 1. Can you have simultaneously installed on the same SRAM card: user data files (i.e. entries in say Contacts 5, 6 and 7, letters in Documents and databases in Data Files 4, 5 and 6), add-on applications and data created with these applications? << Yes. >> 2. Can you also have on the same card simultaneously stored a backup file (providing that the amount of data stored in the main memory - and therefore size of the backup file - is small enough)?<< Yes but after you install software, you won't be able to create a newer backup (because backup to RAM card deletes all card data). So not really. >> 3. Can you download an add-on application from the PC to Zaurus (using e.g. DEU or RuppLynx 3.0) - DIRECTLY to Flash card? << Yes but you must use our install program and you need equal amount of available memory in main (e.g. to install a 100K app. onto a FLASH card you need 100K free on the main unit. After the install is completed, you no longer need the free memory on the main unit. >> Can you then run install program on that Flash card and install the application on the same Flash card (as opposed to installing it from main memory to Flash card, or from Flash card to main memory)?<<<< When you "download" it directly to FLASH, you are in fact "installing" it. You can't then make further copies from FLASH. If you were to "download" to Main (or SRAM card) to the PC Files area, then you are not "installing it". You could then "install" it into Main, SRAM, or FLASH. >> 4. Can you have add-on applications installed on Flash card and run them from there?<< Yes. >> 5. If you create data using add-on application (say Expense Manager) and application is executed from Flash card, where is these data stored - on Flash card or in main RAM? If the data is stored in main RAM will it be backed up with the rest of the data backed up from the main RAM?<< Main. The data will automatically be backed up when you use the DEU to backup your unit or if you backup to the FLASH card. >> 6. If you create data using add-on application, and application is executed from SRAM card, where will these data be stored - in main memory or on SRAM card?<< Your choice of SRAM or FLASH (except in the case of AT&T Mail which can only use main memory for data storage). >> I also understand that this SRAM card will only let me expand Zaurus' memory "indirectly". New entries from Contact 1 will not overflow into SRAM card. Instead I will need to put them in a new Contact 4 database (do I understand it correctly?).<< Yes. >> As you can see there is A LOT I do not know about use of SRAM and Flash cards with Zaurus and add-on applications.<< Hope these answers have helped. Best Regards, - Scott - #: 23665 S9/Sharp Zaurus 27-Nov-95 08:21:33 Sb: #23591-Can't get AT&T to Card Fm: Bill Leung 76447,273 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 <<>> <> There are some subtle differences between loading on a Flash card and an SRAM card. When loading onto an SRAM card or MAIN memory, the program gets deposited directly into memory. However, when loading onto a Flash card, you must have enough MAIN memory free to load the program into the Zaurus where it is then installed onto the FLash card. If you can't load the program into main memory, then you can't load it onto a Flash card either. You must first do a full backup of your unit using the Data Exchange utility. Then you must delete data to free up enough memory in your Zaurus to handle your program (About 300 kbytes for AT&T Mail). After installing the software, then restore your data using the Data Exchange utility. This should solve your problems. Bill Leung Zaurus Systems Manager #: 25225 S9/Sharp Zaurus 15-Dec-95 19:26:19 Sb: #25129-2M Card For Sales...$95 Fm: George Czajkowski 74131,2121 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >>George, I am so confused with the SRAM & FLASH issue I need a tutorial.<< Well, I am often confused on the subject too. I hinted to Scott that a detailed technical paper should maybe be developed by Sharp and posted in the library here. The basis Zaurus limitations with respect to memory cards are as follow - as far as I understand it: SRAM - Zaurus can use any size up to and including 1 MB. I understand that 2 MB SRAM would not work with Zaurus at all (somebody correct me if I am wrong, cause maybe you could access 1 MB and the only other one would be inaccessible?). FLASH - Zaurus can use any size up to and including 16 MB. But only up to 2M can be designated on each card for storage (and execution) of add-on programs. So, if you have say 16 MB Flash card, you need to partition it in such a way that 14 MB is designated for backups and 2 MB for add-on software. With 8 MB flash card these numbers would be 6 MB and 2 MB, respectively. The conclusion here would be that you do not rally need a Flash card bigger than 4 M, that is if all you want is two backup files. >>I sent back my AT&T program as I couldn't get it loaded onto the 4M card because I didn't have 200K available in main memory.<< So, you did not transfer data from main RAM to PC to make room? Once you had AT&T software installed on Flash card, you could have transfer that data back to Zaurus. With these initial install programs you only need the extra main RAM for installation. Once the add-on software is installed on the card, you can use up the main RAM with whatever you want. Cheers, R. J. (George) Czajkowski CIS - 74131,2121 Internet - georgec@cyberus.ca ----------------------------- writing at 10:25 PM (EST), on December 15, 1995 #: 27747 S9/Sharp Zaurus 16-Jan-96 10:14:03 Sb: #27741-#S-RAM v.s Flash Fm: Derek Pinton 70372,470 To: Christian Khouri 100610,3674 (X) >>According to the manual, S-Ram can only be used to increase the memory of the Z (meaning you have exactly the same interface on a card: you can save and retrieve your documents, contacts etc from your cards instead of your Z...), but cannot be used to add software to the Z.<< I am using a Verbatim 1MB SRam card and have found that it CAN store both programs and backups. I have two programs on the card - the Zaurus Demo (which I use as a 'screensaver' when on AC and away from my desk), and a program I'm beta testing. The Add-on Software totals 386kb. In addition, I have a full backup (about 400kb) on the card. The card is 75% full and I'm using about 50% of main memory. When doing Main-to-Card backups there is a warning indicating that all card data will be lost (overwritten?) - however, in my case, this is not happening. I'm able to do backups and the two programs remain intact. It took a bit of experimentation, but I believe that if the programs are installed AFTER card initialization and BEFORE the first backup is attempted, then the card will handle backups and retain the operating programs. I found that if there was a backup set on the card and then the programs were installed I ran into problems. Cheers, Derek Vancouver, B.C. Tuesday, 16 January, 1996 @ 10:09 PST #: 28661 S9/Sharp Zaurus 25-Jan-96 20:08:35 Sb: #28645-Expense Manager Fm: Scott Campbell (SHARP) 75300,2046 To: Jim Zurer 71072,624 Jim, >> A question. I put the card in the Zaurus and the expense card and pager software are operational. I did a backup and it seemed to work without a problem. However, I was under the impression that I could use the flash memory card with the regular Zaurus applications--just like the RAM card on my "late, lamented" Wizard 9520 which was lost in December (backed up through September, so not a total disaster.) In effect, I was able to have six databases and six telephone lists, as well as separate storage for documents and outlines.<< An SRAM card would work like that but not a FLASH card. You can get a good explanation of this from our fax-on-demand service at 612-397-8601. Regards, - Scott - #: 5877 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Mar-95 07:55:19 Sb: #5844-Zaurus PCMCIA Fm: wayne 76207,1115 To: Jim Christian 72320,474 My (limited) understanding of Flash cards is this: Unlike SRAM cards, a flash card requires no power to maintain its memory. It only requires power to write to or read from the card. You can remove the card and your data is safe w/o worrying about power running out and trashing your data. In relation to the Zaurus, a Flash card is like a disk drive. It doesn't increase your memory capacity, but it does increase SOME of your storage capacity. You can back-up the data on your Zaurus, and later restore your data from it, and you can place add-on programs (when the become available) on the card and run them from it. For some reason (anybody care to jump in here?) the Zaurus can't use a flash card as data space for it's internal applications. In other words, you can't tell it to use the card for your appointments, databases and wordprocessing files. I picked up an Apple Newton 2 meg flash card for $139. Hope this helps. #: 53469 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Jul-96 02:59:15 Sb: #53399-Flash RAM & ZR5800 Fm: Calvin Wong 100314,1710 To: Jon Freivald 104650,2666 Jon >Epson 5 Meg Flash RAM I checked on the PCMCIA compatibility list (available in the section library - search for PCMCIA) and there is no Epson 5M RAM. I have a feeling that you may have got yourself an ATA type flash card (ie more of a flash HDD) - can you tell from the label (or check with the supplier/Epson)? The Z will only work with non-ATA type flash cards. Good luck. Rgds, Calvin #: 53475 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Jul-96 04:34:48 Sb: #53399-Flash RAM & ZR5800 Fm: Patrick Dehlinger (PALMW 100014,1025 To: Jon Freivald 104650,2666 Hi Jon, Epson 5Meg flash are ATA (it is Sundisk technology), he Zaurus do not support ATA pcmcia card. You can try to sell them to a HP/Newton user, and then get a compatible flash card (ie: not ATA driven). Patrick #: 54276 S9/Sharp Zaurus 18-Jul-96 10:46:13 Sb: #54255-Z-2 Questions Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: JOHN A FLEMING 71211,1544 John, I was afraid that you were going to say that. No if you do a backup to the SRAM card it will completely rewrite the card, only the FLASH card can do several backups. If you have the room I would move the finance software to the main memory, and then do backups to the card. Or you can backup all your data to the card and then reinstall the Z-finance software to the card and run both things off the card, that would give you 300k more of memory than what you have in the main memory. Of course this have not solved your backup problem, have you tried to backup to your PC? Bo (via SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX) #: 54312 S9/Sharp Zaurus 18-Jul-96 15:03:48 Sb: #54295-Z-2 Questions Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: JOHN A FLEMING 71211,1544 John, You can run some software on a FLASH card, but not all, you can not run the Z-finance software on the FLASH card. The simplest way to do what you want to do is using a FLASH card, the FLASH card takes a complete "snapshot" of the Zaurus's memory. and if you have a problem you can reset your Zaurus deleting all your data and then comfortably restore ALL your data from the FLASH card. I have done that a few times already. The SRAM card do not include installed software when you do a backup, the FLASH card do. Bo (via SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX) #: 54293 S9/Sharp Zaurus 18-Jul-96 12:39:26 Sb: #54124-Z-2 Questions Fm: Kable Singh 100434,2542 To: JOHN A FLEMING 71211,1544 John, My experience is that it overwrites the DATA but not the Z-Finance PROGRAM. However the really upsetting bit is that whilst it doesn't overwrite Z-Finance (good) it does overwrite all the data which you have input to Z-Finance (very bad). There ought to be an option on Z-Finance to keep the data in Main memory and I've already suggested that. Make sure that you have an installable version of Z-Finance in case there have been any recent changes to the way SRAM backups are done! regards, Kable (Winchester UK) #: 65420 S9/Sharp Zaurus 03-Oct-96 17:50:57 Sb: #65300-Flash vs SRAM Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Steve Norrid 74732,2013 (X) Hello Steve, You can run add-on software of both a FLASH cand a SRAM card, the FLASH card can also be used to preform several backups of your Zaurus, However you can not access the data saved on a FLASH card, to do that you will have to use a SRAM card. Right now the best price for a SRAM is about $70 for 2meg and $35 for 1 meg from Reboot @ (201) 457-1980 the ZR5000 can only use 1meg of SRAM so you would want the $35 one. You can also access data on the SRAM card with your PC software. Bo (via SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX) #: 65647 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Oct-96 15:41:43 Sb: #65394-sram back-up Fm: Jon Freivald 104650,2666 To: Marcus Green 100445,2577 <> SRAM cards have a battery in them. Just remove the battery for a few minutes... Jon >>Via Sharp Zaurus ZR-5800FX<< #: 65821 S1/Forum Business 07-Oct-96 10:02:29 Sb: #65794-Flash RAM or SRAM? Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: John Rowe 100357,1116 Along with what Bo will say there is a library file ZCARDS.TXT, as well as your manual, that goes through the various pros/cons. ZBOOKS is on hold, I believe, as the Rupps last conference (the library has the conference notes) said so it's not right around the corner. I would imagine flash will be OK as the book text is non-executable and could go anywhere. That's the way my Newton works, also. AFAIK, SRAM can execute any program whereas flash only some. Backups can go in either. SRAM has a battery, flash uses the Z's. The cost/MB is better for flash at list price. ZFINANCE must go a a SRAM & the new Compuserve library upgrade must go in main or SRAM, don't know why. Me, I have both types and have a Z installed 4M Newton card that one can get for around $125 used. It has 3 or 4 programs on it as well as a daily backup. Good luck, John. --JHC #: 66092 S9/Sharp Zaurus 08-Oct-96 20:10:30 Sb: #64574-back-up Fm: Calvin Wong 100314,1710 To: Michael Weiler 103732,71 Michael >Add-on software doesn't seem to be copied to a pc-card when making a back-up. Yes it does...but only if you use flash card for backup, in which case everything gets backed up (data, add-on progs and associated data). In this sense, a flash card BU is better than any existing PC based sw (RuppLynx and DEU). Rgds, Calvin #: 66143 S9/Sharp Zaurus 09-Oct-96 07:31:26 Sb: #65794-Flash RAM or SRAM? Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: John Rowe 100357,1116 John, I think that Jim covered the bases pretty well in his message. Did he mention that when backing up to a SRAM card you will *not* move any add-on application, and whatever add-on you might have on the SRAM will still be there after the backup? My personal choice is to use a FLASH card for backup's because it takes a complete "snap-shot" of my main memory. This card resides in the top drawer of my desk at home. during the day I use a 2meg SRAM card with several addon application installed, and about half a hundred text files from forum members who have figured stuff out long before I ever did think about it. BTW... Now we are talking about "card-choices" Today I am sitting at LAX on the way to Fresno, and I have instead of my Favorite CE-FM4 sidecar modem brought my 14.4 PCMCIA card modem, together with a extra set of lith batteries from Energizer. When traveling light the extra power consumption is outweighed by the smaller size of the Zaurus with a modem in the PC card slot, compared to mounted on the end. Well that was besides the point. but anyway. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 66364 S9/Sharp Zaurus 10-Oct-96 12:47:56 Sb: #66312-Flash RAM or SRAM? Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Michael Weiler 103732,71 Hello Michael, "What is the advantage of an SRAM card?" Eh that is a good question ;-) Well to me (I can not speak for others) the biggest advantage is that I use my SRAM cards to store data which I can access which it in installed in the Zaurus, you can not store data and access them on a FLASH card. I also have software installed on the SRAM card, I don't know, but supposedly there is some software applications which can not be run on a SRAM card, I think that Z-finance is one of them. Another advantage is that they are cheap from Reboot @ (201) 457-1980 right now. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 66568 S9/Sharp Zaurus 11-Oct-96 23:50:04 Sb: #65394-sram back-up Fm: Daniel W. Rasmus 72225,1423 To: Marcus Green 100445,2577 it appears that deleting software packages does not remove associated data unless you reinitialize the card. Since the Z does not do uninstall like Windows apps, the Z delete function knows nothing about data created by an app. Long term I hope sharp creates some kind of memory management app that supports package movement between cards and main memory and the visibility of files for deletion. Daniel W. Rasmus Pen Computing Magazine #: 66627 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Oct-96 08:41:36 Sb: #66604-PC Cards Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Joseph L. McDowell 105321,1716 (X) Some, but minuscule IMO. A SRAM card has it own battery whereas FLASH uses the Z's. Forum reports/tests have shown a startup drain and delay after backing up. My non-tested estimate is <5 minutes excess use of battery life. I would assume that the higher capacity of a card, say 1M vs 4M, the drain is higher on flash due to there is just more transistors to feed. I haven't run any tests on this, though. There may be data on it in the library. Do a SEARCH on Batteries & Cards & you'll find interesting info. Good luck, Joe. --JHC #: 66683 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Oct-96 17:59:00 Sb: #66310-erased?! Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Michael Weiler 103732,71 Yes, you will get them back :-) Try erasing them from the SRAM card, though :-( (not possible) Regards, Marcus ** via Sharp Zaurus 5800 fx ** #: 67902 S9/Sharp Zaurus 20-Oct-96 14:45:33 Sb: #67899-PCMCIA Catalog Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Philip E. Clark 76741,1037 Yeah, J&R has them on Park Row, 212-238-9000, mailorder @ 800-221-8180. The Apple Newton flash cards work fine. I have three, 2-2M & 1-4M. The 4M is around $180 & the 2M around $100 from J&R. As far as 2M SRAM cards I'd recommend the discontinued $50-$60 GRID cards, mailorder from Reboot (not in NYC) at 201-457-1980. Many of us have them and they are the price/performance leader now but with limited availability. Your manual and the library file ZCARDS.TXT can tell you the difference between flash & SRAM. I'd recommend buying two Reboot's, one for inside the Z and one external for your daily backup. I have all & use only the Reboot SRAM's now that I was able to buy them @ such a reasonable price since I broke the story to the forum. SRAM cards normally cost 100's of dollars. For example, Epson's 1M SRAM has a street price of $200 & other's 2M street is $270. They do require a battery whereas flash does not, no big deal. Good luck, Philip. --JHC #: 68017 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-Oct-96 11:06:25 Sb: #67901-6 more db's w/Sram, how? Fm: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >I also installed all my Z-programs in the card and that only diminished memory size with no ill effects to the aps or programs.< Yes, that's quite neat isn't it? The card does double-duty really well. Oddly enough, just as an experiment I tried a new backup to a card which had some add-on programs on it, assuming it would delete or overwrite the programs as the manual says. It didn't. One of the programs automatically re-initialized itself after the backup was completed, and both programs still run. Don't try this at home, since it isn't supposed to work! I tried it because I didn't really want the programs on that card anyway, and just wanted to see what would happen. My working hypothesis is that an SRAM backup is really the same as copying the data files for all your applications from main memory to the card, and they are usable from there. The reason the manual and the Z warn that a backup will delete all data or programs on the card is that the new data coming from main memory will overwrite whatever applications data is already on the card, and if the data in main memory uses more RAM than is available free on the card, the add-on programs will be overwritten. (Or you'll get an error message that you don't have enough available RAM to complete the backup - I don't know which.) I don't know yet because I don't have that much RAM used. Theoretically, with a full Z2, you need almost all of a 2MB SRAM card to back up your data. Maybe Scott can tell us if this is correct. Suzanne #: 68691 S9/Sharp Zaurus 26-Oct-96 08:23:34 Sb: #68672-Z5000 & add-ons? Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Robert M. Muench 100606,2653 <<>> Along with Mike's response adding a card doesn't extend contiguous memory, say making a 1M 5000 into a 5M 5000 by adding a 4M flash card. It's sorta like a PC's main memory & a separate hard disk, although a poor example. One can run programs via a card but some need sram and other runs on either. Rupp's Z-FINANCE could only run in main & sram in my 5800, not flash. We'll let you know when you decide to do something, just ask. The library file ZCARDS.TXT as well as your manual has good stuff on cards. Another good library file is ZWEBS.TXT which give you worldwide web sites focused on the Zaurus. Good luck. --JHC #: 68750 S9/Sharp Zaurus 26-Oct-96 15:00:55 Sb: #68672-Z5000 & add-ons? Fm: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 To: Robert M. Muench 100606,2653 Sorry, what is "handy"? But in answer to your second question, 2400 is definitely enough, especially if you are only interested in collecting your E-mail. Robert: >> Is the sidecar able to connect to a handy? << Sorry, what is "handy"? I do not understand. But in answer to your second question, yes 2400 is definitely enough, especially since you are apparently only interested in getting your E-mail. (I find it better than this @#$?! new CIS 3.0.1 program I'm using today). Can a program be run from the flash card? Yes they can, except I think the Expense Manager, which I think I've read cannot run from Flash. Programs can also run from SRAM. Most add on programs are not large at all only 2-300 kb, and I have Z games installed in Main Memory. Only CCZ (so far)is so large that it needs to be on a large 2mg Flash card. -Michael- #: 68812 S9/Sharp Zaurus 27-Oct-96 07:46:47 Sb: #68782-Flash RAM Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Philip Hager 101660,1413 I have both and would opt for sram as more can be done with it like having all the aps replicated in it giving you 6 more different CONTACTS & USER FILES. You also can install "some" programs in it which don't work in flash. Both cards can be taken out and not lose their contents but sram has a battery whereas flash doesn't. You exchange the sram battery, when bad, inside the Z so to not lose data. Call Reboot at 201-457-1980 & buy two discontinued GRID 2M cards at $60 each, one for a outa-Z backup and one for ina-Z programs. Also J&R sells Apple Newton flash cards, which work flawlessly, at good prices like 4M for $150 or so. I have 2 or 3. The library file ZCARDS.TXT & your manual has more data for you, Philip. Good luck. --JHC #: 69472 S9/Sharp Zaurus 01-Nov-96 22:15:11 Sb: #68970-SRAM CARDS Fm: Daniel W. Rasmus 72225,1423 To: Rick McKinney 71016,153 (X) SRAm works as working memory. It essentially acts as a duplicate and can be worked on, just like main memory. If you want to keep multiple backups, use Flash, which copies an image of main memory and will do so for multiple generations of backups on a single flash card. Dan Rasmus Pen Computing Magazine #: 73364 S9/Sharp Zaurus 28-Nov-96 07:44:23 Sb: #73344-ZR 3000 SPECS Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Ben Mabini 105226,521 <<>> Call REBOOT at 201-457-1980 and buy the Grid 1M or 2M SRAM cards for around $50, if they still have any. Otherwise Newton flash cards work flawlessly and can be bought used here in the CIS Newton forum and on the many Newton web sites. I bought a 4M for a 100 bucks a year ago. New ones go for around $150 from J&R and other companies in the library file MAILPALM.TXT. Good luck. --JHC #: 73703 S9/Sharp Zaurus 30-Nov-96 09:53:02 Sb: #73632-Flash ROM vs. SRAM Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Ben Mabini 105226,521 I own both + own all the software you have & use the SRAM due to it giving me 6 more CONTACTS/DATA FILES for other databases. It will also load some programs that flash won't. ZFINANCE was one, I think. ZBOOKS will work in flash, I've been told, so I'm going to dedicate my 4M to that and all the books I'll put in it when it arrives. Call REBOOT at 201-457-1980 for their $50, or so, Grid 1M & 2M SRAM cards...a dynamite but and they're running out of them. I use use 4M Apple Newton cards which one can buy used on the Newton internet areas for $100 and new for $150 @ J&R, in NY. The library file ZCARDS, and your manual, has more data. Good luck. --JHC #: 73699 S20/Trading Post 30-Nov-96 09:52:56 Sb: #73657-Want PC Cards for Zaurus Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: L.SLACK 103524,1200 1. Call REBOOT @ 201-457-1980 for their around $50 1M & 2M Grid SRAM cards. 2. Call Damark @ 800-729-9000 for the $40 14.4/14.4 AT&T fax modem, item # B-8850-489527. 3. Call J&R in NY for their $150 4M Apple Newton flash cards. There is no such thing as a fax/modem pager card. Also, see the library files ZWEBS.TXT, MAILPALM.TXT & ZACCESS.TXT for places to buy Zaurus items. Good luck. --JHC #: 73727 S7/Windows CE 30-Nov-96 11:54:42 Sb: #73676-PC CARD COMPATIBILITY Fm: Ron Luks (SYSOP) 76703,254 To: Jack Nolan 73663,63 Jack: I share your concerns about the true level of compatibility of various PCMCIA cards and agree that one of the most valuable services this forum can perform would be to compile and maintain a compatibility list. However, either I don't fully understand your point about levels of compatibility or I just don't agree with you. I don't see the need for various levels of compatibility rankings. Either a card works or it doesn't. Period. Yes/No. On/Off. To my mind, if a RAM card can be read FROM but not written TO, that card does NOT work. It goes in the incompatible list. We need to keep any list as simple as possible and I dont see any wisdom in compiling a list that has qualifications like "67% compatible with Windows CE units". I would be flexible to the point of saying something like "This modem works with all Win CE units except the XXXX unit..." but beyond that, lets keep things simple and straightforward. Ron #: 74104 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Dec-96 09:58:14 Sb: #73843-power /modem Fm: George Fragos 102741,1410 To: Criel Filip 100277,3303 (X) For the most part the PCMCIA modem draws power only when used. The one exception is when you turn the Zaurus on. Zaurus checks the PCMCIA slot to see whats there, this will use some power. The issue here may be when batteries get weaker, there may be enough power to start but, not enough to recognize the modem. I have both the Sharp CE-FM4 sidecar and a PCMCIA modem and only use the CE-FM4. It meets all my needs and takes less power than conventional modems. As to the power supply, there are files in the library on building battery supplies that should answer your questions. I would say at less than $10 the Sharp supply is cheap and "compact". I have three and leave them where I use them, work and etc. Why take a chance, 800ma is more power than the Sharp AC power supply or their external NiCad which I also use. George (ZR-5000FX & CCZ) --------- In reply to --------- Hi, Can anyone tell me if the modem-card pcmcia consumes power when inserted into the Zaurus. For example when using activities ? Or is it only when using the modem ?? I have a stabilized power supply (800ma). I would like to use it for my zaurus - What voltage must I use and what is + and - (core or pin) ?? Thanks in advance Filip #: 74205 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Dec-96 17:38:47 Sb: #74040-ZR 3000 SPECS Fm: Ann Harrell 76161,55 To: Ben Mabini 105226,521 >>with Z. Jim pointed out that Newton flash cards are compatible >>with the Z; which reminds me, ClubPDA is selling 2mb Newton >>Flash cards for $69.95 (the cheapest ones I could find...) ClubPDA?? Stop being coy and tell all...... Ann@Indiana Harrell 76161.55@compuserve.com annharell@aol.com 7:43 PM, 12/2/96 #: 74277 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Dec-96 23:28:04 Sb: #74252-#Flash Rom vrs. SRAM Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Bill Choi 105417,3203 (X) Hello Bill >What in world is the difference between flash rom and sram?< For pure Backup the FLASH ram is the coolest, however you can only access the data if you restore it to the Zaurus, in other words you can't access data on the card and the Zaurus at the same time. The SRAM will let you access the data, or store new files while using the Zaurus, and you can also run all add-on applications from a SRAM card, (some will not work on a FLASH card). However the SRAM card do not backup the add-on applications, only the FLASH card takes a "snap-shot" of the entire Zaurus. I would recommend a FLASH card for daily backups, and a SRAM card for work on the road. Remember to always leave the FLASH card in the office or at home, if your Zaurus and backup get lost at the same time, you really are going to hate life. Bo Via MacCIM 3.0 #: 75700 S9/Sharp Zaurus 10-Dec-96 12:41:34 Sb: #75686-Install to Flash Problem Fm: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 Thanks, Jim. >> If you ever get a PCMCIA modem you'll want CCZ to be in main memory so consider putting it there if you can. << First I'd need to get a 5800, as my 5000 only has @708kb of space when totally empty! CCZ is about 1.2mg (also, don't forget, the 5000 only accepts up to 2mg Flash cards) Actually, I finally did get the two programs installed, after trying a myriad of ways I dimly remembered seeing here in the past (before I had the problem and was paying attention, of course!). I think the main keys (for a 5000) are: 1) rem out any Temp file set in your autoexec.bat; 2) install the smaller files first, then CCZ; 3) for smaller files, it may be faster/easier to import (using the DEU) to PC files in Main memory, then install via the icon to Card; 4) keep trying different ways, even ones that don't at first necessarily make any logical sense. (why did it work when I installed the small program first??) Also things that have worked for others, may not be necessary for you (i.e.- I didn't have to delete all my data first, then install, then restore. I *tried* that, but it didn't work. When I finally got both programs installed, it was onto a half-full Zaurus). Now, where was that Rupp catalogue...? - Michael - #: 76050 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Dec-96 12:27:32 Sb: #76039-Flash v SRAM Fm: Derek Pinton 70372,470 To: Murray Moffatt 100240,1477 >>I vaguely remember reading somewhere that you can only use 1MB S-RAM and Flash cards on a Z-5000, and not higher capacities. Is this true?<< PMFJI, but I use a 2MB Flash card on my Z-5000. I have about 870k allocated for (1) backup and the Z-Games, Z-Calc and Pili software are all on the card as well. The card is full but works fine. Cheers, Derek Vancouver, B.C. Thursday, 12 December, 1996 @ 12:25 PST #: 76047 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Dec-96 12:07:16 Sb: #76039-Flash v SRAM Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Murray Moffatt 100240,1477 <<>> My 5800 supports my 2M SRAM and 4M flash (& even higher to 8M. I think) so I guess the 5000 supports 1M SRAM and higher flash. In fact, I used my 4M Newton flash card with my 5000 when I had it. I believe the 5000s manual has the limits, don't remember though. The library file ZCARDS.TXT may have the answer. --JHC #: 76180 S9/Sharp Zaurus 13-Dec-96 06:54:31 Sb: #76157-Sharp Announcement: CCZ! Fm: George Czajkowski 74131,2121 To: James Fields 102041,2327 >> I need the two meg kind right? << Zaurus can use Flash cards up to 16 MB in size, but only up to 2 MB can be designated for add-on programs. The rest can only be used for backing up main RAM. Flash cards have to be non-ATA type. Alternative solution is a SRAM card. ZR-5000 can use up to 1 MB, ZR-5700/5800 can use up to 2 MB. Reboot Electronics apparently has very cheap brand new 1 MB SRAM Cards (Fuji GRiD). They also used to have 2 MB SRAM cards (and maybe still do). These cards work with Zaurus. You can call them at 201-457-1980. Cheers, George *SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX user* #: 77185 S9/Sharp Zaurus 19-Dec-96 09:38:28 Sb: #77150-SRAM CARD Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Rick McKinney 71016,153 I have 6 programs on my 2M SRAM card (ZCALC, ZGAMES I, ZEXPENSE, ZFLASH, ZFINANCE and Z-EM@IL) all loaded at separate times. Whoever told you that was wrong. Check the library file ZCARDS.TXT and your manual for add'l data. Also, Parra's DIGITAL INK, "the" Zaurus newsletter has an issue dedicated to cards. See their web site, parra.com, for a subscription as well as back issues. Good luck. --JHC #: 77373 S9/Sharp Zaurus 20-Dec-96 18:20:38 Sb: #77150-SRAM CARD Fm: George Czajkowski 74131,2121 To: Rick McKinney 71016,153 >>When I want to store something on my SRAM card, I am told that any prior programs or data stored there will be eliminated. I don't understand the rationale behind such an arrangement. Can someone explain. << Are you sure you are not trying to use Backup feature? Attempting ng to back up main RAM to SRAM would give you this message. Cheers, George (via SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX) #: 77607 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Dec-96 20:20:36 Sb: #77150-SRAM CARD Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Rick McKinney 71016,153 Hello Rick When You store something on a SRAM card nothing is deleted, only if you do a backup, in that case all the content of your Main RAM is transferred to your SRAM card. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 77763 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Dec-96 02:40:46 Sb: #77692-Annual purge & reset Fm: Ben Mabini 105226,521 To: Pete Berg 74227,1017 Pete, I have a ZR5800 (2mb) and I used to do my traditional monthly purge and reset (done 5 of them). I noticed that there is a slight speed gain in the Z if restoring via the DEU using the following scheme: 1. Install Applications first 2. Import ZDF file (CSV, RTF, etc.) The "backup" of the DEU, copies the data files as it is recorded in the Z while the FLASH Card copies both data & apps into a backup (as is it is recorded in the Z); so if you have some sort of corrupt data in your Z it'll back it up, unfortunately 'as it is recorded ... on DEU & Flash backups, the links are not lost though... SRAM cards are the best IMHO if you want a "hard-disk"-like feature where you can view & edit your data dynamically.... Ben - via #: 77813 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Dec-96 13:19:10 Sb: #77757-Z-em@il Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Douglas Armand 100046,2475 Hello Douglas I expect the Zaurus / MI-10 to hit the US market in the late spring, early Q2, but I really don't know any more than what I have been told. While you wait, I would purchase a 2 or 4 meg FLASH card, to back up your Zaurus, while using the SRAM card as extra memory, you can not use the SRAM card to store files and backup to it at the same time, as it will overwrite what is in those files you have stores there. I have saved a backup copy of all important software on a Sram card, where I can retrieve the .ZPM if I need it. I also have all of the software stored on my Mac of course. Right now I like you are pretty pressed for space, and find myself using the CE-FM4 more than I did before, because most of my ADD-ON software is installed to a 2meg SRAM card, (which I have backed up to my Mac via the DEU.) that way I have more space in my Zaurus, and unlike if I store documents on the Sram card I don't have to use the tools to swap memory, I feel that using the SRAM card for software, including the autopilot, is a good compromise. (until we get a Zaurus with a 500MEG HD that is) Bo #: 72094 S1/Forum Business 21-Nov-96 08:10:31 Sb: #71982-Backups Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Douglas Baum 102746,322 Hello Doug You can only backup the entire Zaurus at one time, this is a good thing because you would other wise loose the links between your entries. If you use a 2meg FLASH card you can only get room for one back up from your ZR5800 naturally the Z1 eg ZR5000 can store two backups in the same space. You can purchase a 8 meg FLASH card and have room for 4 individual ZR5800 backups or 16 ZR5000 backups. Bo #: 78996 S9/Sharp Zaurus 01-Jan-97 21:36:16 Sb: #78561-#To buy a Zaurus? Fm: Michael A. Greer 75620,2677 To: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 (X) Message text written by Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) > (Other than I am running out of room and have a 2meg SRAM card installed almost permanently these days. < This is THE reason to own the sidecar modem IMHO. I have had an SRAM card installed permanently since July/August. It is a necessity for me. #: 79067 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Jan-97 10:31:57 Sb: #78153-Z-Em@il/Mac Issues/long Fm: Rupp Technology Corp. 75300,1232 To: Sunil Mulchand 100426,3713 I can't do anything about the Mac Installer.....We didn't make the DOS one. We don't have RTPatch for macintosh....something we are looking into. Flash Card: Well this is easy. You cannot put PC Files on a flash card. You could send it to your Zaurus RAM, then install to Flash Card...but keep in mind that the flash card draws more power....which may be the reason your batteries died so quick? Message Headers (retrieve subjects of messages) was actually something I suggested, but unfortunately could not be implemented into the first version. PPP timeout adjustment was discussed and it was worked out to 'timeout' only if the server didn't respond. Typically what happens is the server is disconnecting the user (or disconnecting Z-Em@il) and not Z-Em@il disconnecting from the server. I really can't say if this is what is happening to you or not since I haven't seen use of your account in action. HotKeys: There are some hotkeys....send/receive mail is just not one of them...but it is on the list now. Regards, Scott (RTC) sglasgow@rupp.com #: 79585 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Jan-97 14:32:10 Sb: #79458-Flash Card Space Fm: Aaron Chandler 105413,2523 To: Ann Harrell 76161,55 (X) No, 2meg is the given name, but only hold about 1700k / 1.7meg.... so that adds up about right. #: 68208 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Oct-96 16:43:25 Sb: #68147-#Reboot and Autopilot Fm: Michael Disabato 72253,1534 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >Yes, the Reboot cards will work in your 5000 but read the card area of your manual for >maximum size and how SRAM can be used. The library file ZCARDS.TXT will help you Jim, Thanks for your response. I have an 1MB SRAM card and a 2MB Flash card. My question was prompted by some comments that the 2MB SRAM card from Reboot does not work in the 5000. As for Autopilot, I'll wait on that and the software until I see if I'll be buying a 5800. After all, it has been nearly a year since they were announced, there *is* the MI-10 to consider, and Compaq just announced a handheld using Windows CE. Ain't this stuff fun???? :) Mike P.S. I also use an AT&T 3762 to connect through my Nokia Cellular. The entire system works like a champ! Can't wait for Z-Em@il. #: 68213 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Oct-96 17:40:18 Sb: #68208-#Reboot and Autopilot Fm: George Czajkowski 74131,2121 To: Michael Disabato 72253,1534 (X) >>My question was prompted by some comments that the 2MB SRAM card from Reboot does not work in the 5000.<< That is correct. You cannot use SRAM cards larger than 1 MB in ZR-5000. (However, ZR-5700 and ZR-5800 will accept SRAM cards up to 2 MB in size). Cheers, George *SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800FX user* #: 68229 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Oct-96 19:23:08 Sb: #68213-Reboot and Autopilot Fm: Michael Disabato 72253,1534 To: George Czajkowski 74131,2121 George, Thanks for the info. Makes sense. Must have to do with the memory access routines. Mike #: 68227 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Oct-96 19:14:34 Sb: #68120-#Reboot and Autopilot Fm: Jon Freivald 104650,2666 To: Michael Disabato 72253,1534 (X) <> It's a part of the add-on (free!) Compuserve enhancement for the 5800 -- I don't believe (though I'm sure I'll get dozens of corrections if I'm wrong!) that it works with the Compuserve add-on for the 5000. <> The 1 Meg cards do. Jon >>Via Sharp Zaurus ZR-5800FX<< (with AutoPilot!) #: 68232 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Oct-96 19:24:05 Sb: #68227-Reboot and Autopilot Fm: Michael Disabato 72253,1534 To: Jon Freivald 104650,2666 Jon, Thanks for the info. Looks like I'll get one of the 1MB cards for Z-Em@il. Mike #: 68227 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Oct-96 19:14:34 Sb: #68120-#Reboot and Autopilot Fm: Jon Freivald 104650,2666 To: Michael Disabato 72253,1534 (X) <> It's a part of the add-on (free!) Compuserve enhancement for the 5800 -- I don't believe (though I'm sure I'll get dozens of corrections if I'm wrong!) that it works with the Compuserve add-on for the 5000. <> The 1 Meg cards do. Jon >>Via Sharp Zaurus ZR-5800FX<< (with AutoPilot!) #: 68228 S1/Forum Business 22-Oct-96 19:22:19 Sb: Sram 1MB on Z2 Fm: Jeff Freed 103725,3721 To: All I just discovered something that I thought I would share with you all. I was one of many that was not fortunate in getting one of the 2M sram cards from Reboot. So instead I got two 1megs. Today I tried something that may be of interest to other people that have a Z2 with a 1meg Sram. I took a my Z2 and backed it up on a 2Meg flash card. I then took the 1meg sram card and put it in. And backed it up. Now I want to explain, I have total used 1158 in my main memory. I have in add on soft ware: 587k. When I backed up to the 1meg sram card it only took the main memory. The add on software stayed on the Z. So then I restored from the 1meg sram to the main memory, expecting that it would delete my add on software. And it did not. I believe that if you have 1meg of main memory used up, and the rest in either communications or in add on software, that you can get away with using a 1meg sram card. At least it worked for me. I hope this works for anyone else that may need it. PS: If any one out there has a 2meg sram card that they are willing to sell near the price of Reboots, I would be interested. -Jeff Freed *SHARP Zaurus ZR-5800 user-Auto pilot* #: 69784 S9/Sharp Zaurus 04-Nov-96 21:04:22 Sb: #69662-All Z2's not equal !!! Fm: Kent R. Folsom, MD 105175,706 To: Marcus Green 100445,2577 >><< I put a Reboot SRAM card in, and was moving files, when I found that the order was different! The main memory was newest-last, the card was newest-first. Hmm. Now here's the good part.... it doesn't do it any more! >> Kent, very interesting observation. I assume your SRAM card had been initialized in another Zaurus? Marcus<< Actually, no. At least to my knowledge. I didn't do that (only have one), but I really can't say if I received the card from Reboot un-initialized. I was greedy and bought several cards, so it's possible I did something like that. I sure miss the newest-first index! Kent, via Sharp Zaurus 5800FX 105175.706@compuserve.com #: 69554 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Nov-96 19:24:53 Sb: #69263-All Z2's not equal !!! Fm: Kent R. Folsom, MD 105175,706 To: Marcus Green 100445,2577 <> Marcus, I, too, found that odd occurrence WITHIN my 5800! I put a Reboot SRAM card in, and was moving files, when I found that the order was different! The main memory was newest-last, the card was newest-first. Hmm. Now here's the good part.... it doesn't do it any more! Now both are new-last. Mine also needs the patch. Love to hear an explanation! Kent, via Sharp Zaurus 5800FX 105175.706@compuserve.com #: 69064 S9/Sharp Zaurus 29-Oct-96 13:33:08 Sb: #69033-#SRAM or FLASH Fm: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 To: new 105252,3605 (X) Patrick, I second Charles -- call Reboot to see if they have cheap cards left. They have had 2MB SRAM cards for $70US (compared to a more typical $270). I have a few now and see nothing wrong with them. They were simply surplus. They also had a 10MB Flash card for about $270, which is also a good price, and 1 MB SRAM (which is the largest you can use if you have a 5000) for about $40. Reboot's phone number is (201) 457-1980. Suzanne PS - I'd say get SRAM since it doesn't use your main Z batteries and Flash does. They can be used for backups, to install and run add-on programs, or to set up additional data files. They are fast and flexible, and at $70 a real steal. #: 74040 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Dec-96 03:34:29 Sb: #73857-ZR 3000 SPECS Fm: Ben Mabini 105226,521 To: Ann Harrell 76161,55 No problemo. Price from Reboot for the 1mb cards are @$35.00 each (a REALLY GREAT deal) compare that price with Alix' ($98.00 / 1mb SRAM). As for the 2mb they said they ran out of them & the current flash cards for the Grid are not compatible with Z. Jim pointed out that Newton flash cards are compatible with the Z; which reminds me, ClubPDA is selling 2mb Newton Flash cards for $69.95 (the cheapest ones I could find...) Ben #: 82180 S9/Sharp Zaurus 23-Jan-97 05:51:20 Sb: #Memory Extension Fm: WEISTO, E. J. 72204,1711 To: anyone What is the difference between "SRAM" and "flash memory"? I am running out of space in my Zaurus #: 82188 S9/Sharp Zaurus 23-Jan-97 06:40:21 Sb: #82180-Memory Extension Fm: Scott Campbell (SHARP) 75300,2046 To: WEISTO, E. J. 72204,1711 Use SRAM (a 2MB card for the ZR-5700/5800 or a 1MB for the ZR-5000). This memory can be used to store anything you want (programs, data, etc.). If you only want to install programs (or perhaps backup the main memory), then get a FLASH card. Regards, - Scott - #: 82403 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Jan-97 08:20:09 Sb: #82335-Sidecar -> mobile phone? Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Paul McNab 100237,641 <<>> Good planning, Paul. I have the CCZ AutoPilot library upgrade patch in main memory along with Rupps EM@IL and a 2M SRAM in my 5800 for the other programs. When I use my PC CARD modem the communication software is always residing in the Z's main memory. Good luck. --JHC #: 82402 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Jan-97 08:19:38 Sb: #82380-Ram Cards Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: R.A. RYERSON 105533,3115 Hello Richard The FLASH card will shortn your battery life somewhat, if you are looking to expand your avaliable space, I think that I would recomend getting a 2meg SRAM card, continue to use your FLASH card for your regular backups, and use the SRAM card permanently in your Zaurus, place your software onthe card, and store your data in main memory, that works great for me, you can also cut any entry from the Zaurus and paste it into the SRAM card for storage. From what I hear the AutoPliot plug-in (Great FREE product from SHARP) works from main or a SRAM card. but I have not tried it from a FLASH card, others may have a diferent experience. Bo From my Mac #: 82407 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Jan-97 08:20:14 Sb: #82380-Ram Cards Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: R.A. RYERSON 105533,3115 The battery drain is minimum in my tests. SRAM cards have an internal battery which makes them better while FLASH uses the Z's battery. Both use some current during startup and rebooting and minimal when the Z is on. I doubt anyone can see it as it's probably measured in low minutes over the weeks of use. Anyway, I recommend the 22 cent AA Price Costco batteries. Who cares when one can buy them that low? I get 4+- weeks outa 2 of them with no PCMCIA use. I've tried the autopilot on an sram/flash card & in main memory although recommend one puts in only main as it will always be there when one is using a PC CARD modem or has their card out. It does take 200K+-, though, & Z's sorta get sluggish with the more you put in main memory. Good luck. --JHC #: 82445 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Jan-97 13:43:38 Sb: #82425-#RAM Cards? Fm: Nathan Wajsman 100712,3112 To: Charles Newgas 101612,3123 I have a 2mb Grid SRAM card from Reboot and a 2mb Newton Flash card. Both work perfectly. I believe Reboot does not have any more of the 2mb SRAM cards but they might still have the 1 mb ones; the price is quite low. The Newton Flash cards are around $50. Unfortunately, I do not have the phone numbers at home, they are at the office and IT IS FRIDAY NIGHT (YEAH!), but perhaps some of our friends in the U.S. time zones who are still slaving away at w**k can help... Nathan #: 82458 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Jan-97 14:21:30 Sb: #82342-RAM Cards? Fm: Bill Choi 105417,3203 To: Philip Hager 101660,1413 >>I am interested in a 2MB RAM Card for my Zaurus. Does anyone know where to order one in the US? (International orders) and how much they cost.<< Hey Philip, Call Pygmy. They have the best price on 2mb SRAM cards $149.00. Ask for Richard Wohl at 1-800-447-9469. Bill 105417.3203@Compuserve.com #: 82502 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Jan-97 18:26:04 Sb: #82423-Update Problem Fm: Ben Mabini 105226,521 To: Charles Newgas 101612,3123 (X) Charles, Well, to tell you the truth I guess I went 'mental' one time: if you consider yelling at 300 decibels at 9:00 in the evening ... oh, the horror if seeing it all go away... Since then I always backup my stuff everyday in a flash card (and would delete the 2 day old backups). I also utilize SRAM cards so I can hold 6 additional contact files & 6 datafiles and what nots. (I have 2 other SRAM cards exclusively for this).... I wish you the best in fixing your Zaurus. One thing I've learned from softwares is to wait till everyone has tested it and figured out the bugs.... Best wishes, Ben Mabini - la.ca.usa - 1/24/1997 5:29_ #: 82667 S9/Sharp Zaurus 25-Jan-97 21:00:17 Sb: #82574-Ram Cards Fm: Ben Mabini 105226,521 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 Jim, There is a software (.zpm) installation program for the PC? I didn't know that... May I ask you what the name of that program might be? With regards to the autopilot Flash Card installation, I did reinitialized the flash card and reinstallating the autopilot & one other program. So far, what I found out is that the Autopilot will not install onto a flash card if another application is present in it -- or also you can not install another application on to a flash if the Autopilot is installed -- pretty weird huh? Ben #: 82697 S9/Sharp Zaurus 26-Jan-97 06:43:29 Sb: #82672-#Ram Cards Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Eavan Boland Casey 100125,3622 (X) The Z's only global backup to a any kind of card. One can copy a separate file and paste, though, to a SRAM card after cahnging to the acrd via TOOLS. See the library file ZCARDS.TXT for more data, Eavan. Your manual has more on card reintializing but I think one holds down the RESET switch upon pushing ON and then saying NO to reintialize main memory and yes to the card. Read your manual first. WARNING: YOU CAN WIPE YOUR Z CLEAN IF YOU DO THIS WRONG SO BACKUP & READ YOUR MANUAL BEFORE DOING ANYTHING! Good luck. --JHC #: 81608 S9/Sharp Zaurus 19-Jan-97 22:37:47 Sb: #81548-#Autopilot weather Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Wayne A. McCurdy 74051,2355 (X) Hello Wayne No the card ONLY recieve power when used by a application, with one notable exception, when you first power up the Zaurus, it will prope the card, and if it finds the card to draw too much power for the unit, it will notify you and refust to turn on. Bo #: 81704 S9/Sharp Zaurus 20-Jan-97 11:05:18 Sb: #81630-Cserve Mail Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Charlotte F. McCorq 104116,241 Hello Charlotte, Call PYGMY at 800 447-9469 You may also need a FLASH card if you don't have one, I have heard that PYGMY have been kind enough to install the software to the card for some customers, if you are not use to installing Zaurus software you may want to ask it they will do that for you. (tell them that the SYSOP int he Zaurus forum gave you that crazy idea ) Bo #: 85354 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Feb-97 21:24:52 Sb: #SRAM Card Fm: Jeff Freed 103725,3721 To: Lorentzen, Bo (Sys 75300,2517 (X) Bo, In terminal mode I can choose to put any info on a SRAM card, but in Compuserve software, I can't figure out how to download to the card. What can I do? Is there a way to choose the location of where you would like to store data or files, or software in just regular CSV icon. Do I have to go the tools and switch my location to RAM card instead of main? Thankyou again is advance. I'll try to make it to room 3 on Sunday. What time would it be Central Stadard time? Jeff Freed *Z2 user Via Auto Pilot |:-{)* #: 85366 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Feb-97 22:33:22 Sb: #85354-#SRAM Card Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Jeff Freed 103725,3721 (X) Hello Jeff, You know I have never tought about that, I bet that if you swich the location you will get the desired effect, I generally download to my PCfiles area on the main card and simply copy to the SRAM card if I want to move the files. Looking forward to seeing you Sunday. Bo #: 85443 S9/Sharp Zaurus 13-Feb-97 11:23:50 Sb: #85366-#SRAM Card Fm: Harold M. Goldner 70741,2346 To: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 (X) Bo - Yeah, just figured that out myself (switch location) except for one HUMONGOUS drawback. Can't download to a card when you're using a PCMCIA modem, can you? Harold #: 85476 S9/Sharp Zaurus 13-Feb-97 20:54:02 Sb: #85443-SRAM Card Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Harold M. Goldner 70741,2346 Hello Harold. >except for one HUMONGOUS drawback. Can't download to a card when you're using a PCMCIA modem, can you?< LOL. No I am afraid that would be kind of hard to do. Join us for the Zaurus Chat this Sunday at noon California time and 3PM Eastern time. Bo #: 85445 S9/Sharp Zaurus 13-Feb-97 11:45:42 Sb: #85354-SRAM Card Fm: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 To: Jeff Freed 103725,3721 (X) Jeff, I _think_ I remember the manual saying that communications data _always_ goes to the main unit so that it's always available to you, even when sometimes using a PCMCIA modem. I'm not sure if this applies to downloaded library files, though. Suzanne #: 85504 S9/Sharp Zaurus 14-Feb-97 06:17:02 Sb: #85445-SRAM Card Fm: Jeff Freed 103725,3721 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 Suzanne, Thanks for the thoughts. I believe you are right. If I want to designate the download location, I will go terminal. I haven't figured out any other way. Thanks again, Jeff Freed *Z2 user Via Auto Pilot |:-{)* #: 85551 S9/Sharp Zaurus 14-Feb-97 14:34:13 Sb: #85546-Memory Cards Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: C. BRUCE ALBERT 104741,1110 One can get Newton cards at J&R in NY as well as 1M SRAMs for around $50 at REBOOT...201-337-1134. The library file ZCARDS.TXT as well as your manual will tell you more about sram and flash. Good luck. --JHC #: 86817 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Feb-97 09:55:54 Sb: #86619-#using .bin files Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: SUE E. HOHE 107742,766 (X) Hello Sue, Are you ready, hold on and get ready.. First you need to download the PILI file from library 14, this is the software which allows you to run the .bin files, this file requires about 300k of space, download it to your PC then install it to main memory or to a SRAM card if you have one. After it is installed you can open it by pressing the HELP button, you can still read the help files by pressing 2nd+HELP, when you open first time PILI will install it self further, then it will shut off, after you power on your Zaurus again you tap on the far right button in the PILI menu to select the file you like to open, the menu you get is a index of the PCfiles where you by now should have placed the .bin file you want to run... select the file and tap on OK, there you go, have fun. Hmm. A ZR5000? You may need some more space, pick up your phone and call REBOOT at (201) 457-1980 to order a 1meg SRAM card for $35.- put your software on the card, and keep your data in the main memory, that way you will have a lot more room for cool and fun softwares. I don't know if you have a PC, but if you don't you need to put fresh batteries in your Zaurus before you try to fetch the PILI file from online It will take 20-40 minutes with the Zausu depending on your setup.. Please ask any question you may have. Bo *** Come join us forthe Zaurus chat this Sunday at noon California time. *** #: 86888 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Feb-97 17:55:54 Sb: #86817-#using .bin files Fm: SUE E. HOHE 107742,766 To: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 (X) thanks Bo...another problem...i have a new sram 1meg card...from Rupp...initializes ok until i turn off unit...then i get same initget init Thanks Bo! I will try it out...but another problem...I do have a new SRAM card, 1Meg bought from Rupp (costly!)...and every time I try tolize window again...t rupted, blah blah blah.. exit #: 86896 S9/Sharp Zaurus 24-Feb-97 18:39:26 Sb: #86888-using .bin files Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: SUE E. HOHE 107742,766 (X) Hello Sue, If I understand you right your Zaurus ask you to initialize the SRAM card every time you turn the unit on? My first gues would be that you need a new battery in the card, or that you never put the battery in (No I am not saying that you did forget it, maybe it was not in the package.), that would cause the card to loose its memmory between uses, which inturn would make the Zaurus ask to reformat the card over and over again. You should call if the problem continues call RUPP on 800 844-7775. If the card is older you may simply have run out of battery, they need to be changed about once a year, the way to do that is to insert the card in the Zaurus and while the unit are turned on change the battery, which pops out of the end of the card, that way you will not loose data you have saved on the card, ofcause if you have nothing on the card there are no reason to worry about that deatail. Bo via SHARP ZR5800FX #: 87658 S9/Sharp Zaurus 01-Mar-97 21:23:46 Sb: #87335-Leave Flash Card In? Fm: Leslie Dutton 76265,650 To: Brad Kent 73117,717 >>I just got my ZR5800 and I bought a 2 MB Flash card for backup. My question is should I remove the card between backups and only insert it as needed?>> Just to add to Jim's comment ... the flash card also puts a not insignificant drain on your battery every time you boot the Z with it in, so it's best to remove it. OTOH, an SRAM card has only negligible impact on battery life. Someone in the forum did a nice analysis of the power draw of these cards about a year or so ago after a bunch of folks started noticing shorter battery life after getting flash cards. Leslie #: 88847 S9/Sharp Zaurus 10-Mar-97 08:33:09 Sb: #88657-CIS on Z-5000 Fm: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 To: Leo Boivin 104445,1403 Leo: Don't forget, you will need a 2mg Flash card to install CCZ to. Unless I missed something, there is no need to upgrade the CCZ when you get it installed into the 5000. It comes with the weather, stock and ENS features built in, but cannot, I don't believe, be upgraded to use Autopilot (although I'd love to be proven wrong about that last point). From my experience, if you want to install anything else onto the Flash card besides CCZ, install it first, or you may have difficulty getting it on afterwards YMMV. - Michael - #: 89719 S9/Sharp Zaurus 14-Mar-97 23:01:34 Sb: #89087-Flash Cards Fm: Calvin Wong 100314,1710 To: Joel David Warady 70702,1765 Joel Depends what you need the storage for: - a flash card does not allow you to store data, but can be used for installing most add-on software. It also allows you to do a complete backup (including any add-on s/w and data in your main memory). I say most softwares, because some software will not work on a flash card (such as Z finance from Rupp). - an SRAM card allows you to store data from as well as softwares, but will not back up any add-on softwares and associated data in your main memory if you use it for backup. I think there is a file in the library listing the finer differences between the two. I have 2 4MB flash and 2 1MB SRAM, I never use the SRAM cards as I don't have that much data in my Z but I do have a number of add-on s/w. It's not a very comprehensive posting but I hope it gives you an indication. Rgds, Calvin #: 89718 S9/Sharp Zaurus 14-Mar-97 23:01:33 Sb: #89185-Newton Flash or SRAM? Fm: Calvin Wong 100314,1710 To: Todd Carson 75507,2620 Todd If I remember correctly, Jim Christian uses Apple flash (which, incidentally, are largely made by Intel and should be the same as their Z compatible Series 2 cards) in his Z. Don't know about their SRAMs though.... Rgds, Calvin #: 91042 S9/Sharp Zaurus 23-Mar-97 08:20:03 Sb: #backup Fm: Norm Reuss 107662,1503 To: sysop 75300,2517 (X) I am having a problem with backup on my 5800. In the tools area the backup icon is gray and does not respond to touch or select. My Z is unlovcked so that is not a concern. Do you have any sugestions? Thanks, Norm Reuss #: 91068 S9/Sharp Zaurus 23-Mar-97 12:39:04 Sb: #91042-backup Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Norm Reuss 107662,1503 Hello Norm, You are not giving me much to talk about. are you using a FLASH card to backup to or do you want to backup to your PC? If you are trying tobackup to the PC you need to do the PC link thing from the Zaurus and then simply select backup on your DEU software. THe ikon being gray sounds like you don't have a card installed, that feature relys on a card to work. Bo #: 91083 S9/Sharp Zaurus 23-Mar-97 14:15:52 Sb: #91042-backup Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Norm Reuss 107662,1503 One needs a card in your unit to do a backup. If you have a card installed and still see it gray the card is defective, the cards battery has run down, not initialized (should tell you) or is not compatible. Good luck. --JHC #: 92759 S9/Sharp Zaurus 04-Apr-97 06:49:56 Sb: #92632-Flash or SRAM Fm: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >> Adding a SRAM card does not expand the internal Z's contiguous memory, one has just 3 more CONTACTS, << True, but by choosing, in Tools, to keep all his information on the SRAM card instead of Main memory, Mel could get closer to the 1mg capacity of the SRAM card for his Contacts, etc. than the 650 or so available to him using Main memory. Alternatively, he could use the Main Memory for his 1100+ one big data base (leaving Contact 2 & 3 empty) and then use the SRAM card for his other info which would usually be in Contact 2 or 3 (or vice versa). The real problem is, where will Mel keep Z-Games and CCZ? - Michael - via... my PC #: 84637 S9/Sharp Zaurus 07-Feb-97 11:26:52 Sb: #84587-Mac DEU Problem Fm: Scott Campbell (SHARP) 75300,2046 To: Sunil Mulchand 100426,3713 Sunil, A FLASH card on a Z cannot hold PC Files. The Mac Link will only allow you to download "binary" files (such as a .ZPM file) to the main memory PC Files area. From there, you can then install it onto the FLASH card. If you have a ZR-5700/5800, the section in the manual on PC cards/PC Files, etc. is GREAT (I wrote it ). Check it out for more details. Regards, - Scott - #: 94957 S9/Sharp Zaurus 20-Apr-97 19:38:37 Sb: ZGames & ZFlash Fm: Tim Schweikert 72037,754 To: Jim Christian (Sys 74777,2604 Jim, JHC<> Unfortunately, I am trying to use SRAM or Flash, or ..., anything but main memory. No luck. You didn't say whether the flawless operation was from SRAM or main memory. For me, ZGames2, like ZFla sh, works OK in main memory, not in SRAM. By the way, the ZFlash I bought from Rupp was the at normal price, it wasn't supposed to be a beta ... It's interesting that you also have the problem of not being able to load/save flash stacks when ZFlash is in SRAM, which is exactly what the patch was supposed to have fixed - and didn't. Oh well, I'll see whether Rupp has any response other than 'send it back'. I have to admit I'm disappointed, but I can't afford to lose more time on something I can't use for $100. Of course, I don't want to count the $$$ lost on PC/Mac programs that didn't work right either. Bo will remember the infamous release of MSWord v3.0 for the Mac. (G) Thanks for the response. Tim #: 95017 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-Apr-97 06:24:27 Sb: #94993-Pili and Z5000 Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Kevin J. Davidson 72714,531 (X) < Onoe other question I have: I am thinking about getting the Cserve companion for my Z1. I hear that program needs 1.2 meg. I also hear the Z1 can only handle a 1 meg card. Is this a problem, or can it be worked out? > Hello Kevin, while restricted to 1MB SRAM, the 5000 accepts FLASH cards (non-ATA !!!) up to 18 MB. You can also run the prg from there. Marcus ** via 5800 ** #: 96572 S9/Sharp Zaurus 01-May-97 10:17:51 Sb: #96083-FR SCOTT: NEW ZAURUS Fm: Scott Campbell (SHARP) 75300,2046 To: Paul Slavik 73237,3233 (X) Paul, Any card the pulls more than 200mA (at 5V), shouldn't work in the Zaurus 5700/5800. The ZR-5000 can only handle up to 100mA from a PC card. The AC adaptor won't change these limitations either. Regards, - Scott - #: 99040 S9/Sharp Zaurus 17-May-97 09:29:07 Sb: #98982-SRAM CARD Z 5000 Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Mel Saltzman 76375,213 Yes, that will work, but you'll need to access the data via TOOLS -> RAM CARD everytime you want/update the data. Do the following... 1. Backup to the SRAM card and your MAC. Make sure you have set up the fields exactly like your main data file on the card. 2. Delete the data file in the main unit. Make sure it's on the card before, though. 3. Keep the Z either in the CARD or MAIN mode whichever you access the most. Other thoughts...(www.) PYGMY (.com) has a 5000 trade in program for 5000's to a 1.6M available 5800s. The 5800 is a superior unit IMO. Also the 5000 has around 620K+- available whereas a card has nearly all the 1M. Lastly you can put all the main data on the card & operate out of there as your default. An SRAM card essentially mirrors the main Z whereas flash only can be used for programs and mass backups. Good luck. --JHC #: 99511 S9/Sharp Zaurus 20-May-97 17:18:33 Sb: #99499-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Manuel Izaguirre 71064,2546 An SRAM card will do backups and can have programs residing on it. One sets the partition size upon intialization. See more data in library file ZCARDS.TXT. Good luck. --JHC #: 99573 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 06:31:41 Sb: #99548-#Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 (X) <<>> My wifes 5800 has a 2M SRAM card, 3 or 4 programs, and a daily backup. She gets by with the 2M SRAM as she's not a power user having used only 400K in main memory. I tend to recommend SRAM more than FLASH (I have have 3 cards of each) to newer user due to the versatility of it mirroring the Z, adding 6 more databases. One can't use it as a backup then but you do have the choice. With FLASH you don't. Each to his own, though, that's the neat thing about this forum. Jim #: 99592 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 09:52:28 Sb: #99573-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >> I tend to recommend SRAM more than FLASH (I have have 3 cards of each) to newer user due to the versatility of it mirroring the Z, adding 6 more databases. One can't use it as a backup then but you do have the choice. With FLASH you don't. << I'm not sure what you mean by "mirroring the Z, adding 6 more databases..." Wouldn't a large Flash card work just as well? (And a lot cheaper?) I was thinking of buying a 16meg Non-ATA flash card for storing large masses of stuff. Whenever I needed to access anything on the card, I'd save the card's current information to a my 2MB Flash backup card. Then I'd use the "Restore" function to fill the Zaurus with 2MB of information from one of the eight "backups" on the 16MB card. After I was done using that chunk of information I'd save it to the 16MB card again. Finally, I'd insert the 2MB Flash card and restore my "Current" information of appointments/contacts. I already have three 2MB SRAM cards, but I'd like to be able to carry around more information on a single card. By the way, here are some decent prices I found at a place called L.A. Trade in Torrance CA: 1MB SRAM $109 2MB SRAM $189 4MB Flash $118 8MB Flash $218 16MB Flash $419 #: 99612 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 11:46:52 Sb: #99592-#Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 (X) <<>> When one uses an SRAM card it mirrors all the functions of the main unit. I have 6 other databases on the card...wines, CSi WW tel numbers, etc. You go to it by TOOLS --> RAM CARD, sorta awkward but mine are little used databases. If you use it for backup one can see all the data that was backed up, also. Say you backed up yesterday, deleted a main record this AM, and whoops, want it now. It is there visibly for you to see on the card & you can cut & paste. The largest SRAM I have is 2M and largest FLASH is 4M so I can't vouch for anything larger nor remember any forum messages on how well they work. There is some limit that is in the manual, don't remember though, Andy. I didn't follow your use of cards well as it sounded like you were copying card to card and I don't know how to do that as it wipes out the Z's main data when doing it, I guess. Jim #: 99635 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 14:54:17 Sb: #99623-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 << As I understand what you want to do, Andy, is have alot of readable/editable docs on a 16M card. If that is correct it may work depending on the initialization of the card and I don't remember the numbers. >>. I was just perusing the manual on this very subject last night, and here's what I got out of it: 1) You can put up to 6? software programs on the FLASH card, but NO DATA can be stored on it, unless in backup form. 2) You can only use 2MB for the software you want to put on it, but can put multiple backups onto the the card, possibly filling the 16MB (i.e. largest card). What I got out of this is that the maximum FLASH card a person would realistically need is a 4MB one, using 2MB for up to x add-on programs, and the other 2MB for a backup. According to the manual, it also uses alot of power to write to the card, so it might be just as well that data is not saved there. This information pertains to the ZR-5800, and is correct unless I misread it (doubt that). Maybe Z-Book will overcome this problem somehow? I sure hope so, for I was crestfallen, wanting to put books on my Zaurus as well. - tk [ZR-5800+Sidecar+AutoPilot] #: 99623 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 13:44:25 Sb: #99617-#Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 1. You can back up a Z in either SRAM or FLASH. A full Z is around 1.6M so any 2M will work w/around 400K left over. My wifes 5800 uses only a 1M SRAM card as she only has 500K+- of data. 2. As I understand what you want to do, Andy, is have alot of readable/editable docs on a 16M card. If that is correct it may work depending on the initialization of the card and I don't remember the numbers. Here are caveats, though... a. The maximum size of any doc is 16K (not M) which means the DOCUMENTS ap will have many chunks for big files. I don't know if there is an upper limit. b. One can't selectively backup individual docs as it is a mass backup/restore. I guess one could cut and paste but that doesn't sound like it solves your problem. c. I don't know how one gets 8-2M size packets of info on a 16M card unless the PC sends it there or you're always adding and deleting to the main units. Again, though, you can't selectively backup the DOCUMENTS ap as it's all or nothing. The Z software will allow one to send/receive DOCUMENTS to a card but I've never done that. I believe the best solution to your problem is to let me loan you a 1M SRAM card and you play around with it. Email me your address. The fee is a couple of your books. :) Another idea is to wait for Rupp's Z-BOOKS which allows reading material to be put on cards with bookmarks, etc., like the Bible. If it ever does come I think it will be in calendar Q3. Rupp has been super silent on it lately so they may be having problems. Good luck. --JHC 3. #: 99608 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 11:46:29 Sb: #99573-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 Hello Jim, Cool, I totally forgot that when you backup on a SRAM card it does not overwrite the MORE files, great idea... Only drawback would be that you probably don't get a backup of the data created by the add-on software in the main memory? Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 99663 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 21:10:28 Sb: #99623-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >> As I understand what you want to do, Andy, is have alot of readable/editable docs on a 16M card. << Exactly! I have a *lot* of text I want to carry around for reference. Instead of buying eight $200 2MB SRAM cards, I'm thinking of buying one $400 16MB FLASH card and doing something a little sneaky. >> The maximum size of any doc is 16K (not M) which means the DOCUMENTS ap will have many chunks for big files. I don't know if there is an upper limit. << Yep. Since the 5800 can hold about 1700K, it can hold about ten chunks of 16K files at one time. >> One can't selectively backup individual docs as it is a mass backup/restore. I guess one could cut and paste but that doesn't sound like it solves your problem. << I'll simply use the mass backup/restore to shift from one chunk of Archived Documents back and forth to the Zaurus' main memory. For instance, I'll backup my Zaurus' current crop of name/address information, and restore a chunk from the 16MB FLASH cards: Perhaps Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest". It would be a chunk of 16K files. When I'm done reading the play, I'd simply restore my original "current" crop of name/address information to get back to normal. >> I don't know how one gets 8-2M size packets of info on a 16M card unless the PC sends it there or you're always adding and deleting to the main units. Again, though, you can't selectively backup the DOCUMENTS ap as it's all or nothing. The Z software will allow one to send/receive DOCUMENTS to a card but I've never done that. << I'd get them onto the card by Backing up my Zaurus' current name/address info to the 16MB card and then using my PC and RuppLynx or DEU to put the Documents into the Zaurus. Once in the Zaurus, I can archive them to the 16MB card, repeating the process with different plays, novels, book chapters and whatnot until I've filled the 16MB FLASH card with Archived text. Then, I Restore my name/address info to bring things back to normal. >> I believe the best solution to your problem is to let me loan you a 1M SRAM card and you play around with it. Email me your address. The fee is a couple of your books. :) << Thanks for the offer, but I snatched up a few SRAM cards from Reboot. :-) Unfortunately, they cost so much now! When I saw the 16MB Flash RAM card for $419 (compared to the $189 for the 2MB SRAM card), I knew it was time to start fiddling around with this FLASH stuff... >> Another idea is to wait for Rupp's Z-BOOKS which allows reading material to be put on cards with bookmarks, etc., like the Bible. If it ever does come I think it will be in calendar Q3. Rupp has been super silent on it lately so they may be having problems. << I called Rupp a few days ago and the saleslady said they'd pretty much stopped working on Z-Books. She said they've invested a lot of time and money into it, but want to change the software, so they're trying to decide what to do. Anyway, I'm gonna go ahead and and order that 16MB FLASH card and fiddle around with it. I'll write something up for the library if everything works according to plan. (Or if it doesn't, for that matter... :-( Andy #: 99664 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 21:23:39 Sb: #99635-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 To: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 (X) >> What I got out of this is that the maximum FLASH card a person would realistically need is a 4MB one, using 2MB for up to x add-on programs, and the other 2MB for a backup. << With a 16MB FLASH card, I'm planning to save a wide variety of backups -- and each backup will be of the Zaurus when it contains a bunch of Document files. By choosing to Archive and to Backup the Zaurus' memory at various times, I can shift the right information into the Zaurus. I can Restore one Backup that contains an bunch of Document files composing a Tom Stoppard play. When I'm done reading that, I can Restore a bunch of Document files composing a Shakespeare play. When I'm done reading, I can Restore my Zaurus' normal, name/address/appt. information. >> According to the manual, it also uses alot of power to write to the card, so it might be just as well that data is not saved there. << I've backed up information to my 2MB FLASH card for quite some time, and it's not a deadly battery drainer. (Plus, FLASH cards don't use batteries, so they're safer than SRAM cards, which *do* require batteries!) I keep my Zaurus plugged in while on my desk, though, and I almost always carry a couple AA batteries in my pocket -- just in case. :-) #: 99669 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 23:09:38 Sb: #99664-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 To: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 Hello Andy, >> With a 16MB FLASH card, I'm planning to save a wide variety of backups -- and each backup will be of the Zaurus when it contains a bunch of Document files. By choosing to Archive and to Backup the Zaurus' memory at various times, I can shift the right information into the Zaurus. I can Restore one Backup that contains an bunch of Document files composing a Tom Stoppard play. When I'm done reading that, I can Restore a bunch of Document files composing a Shakespeare play. When I'm done reading, I can Restore my Zaurus' normal, name/address/appt. information. << Very interesting application of your Z! Sounds like you've got it all figured out, and I assume that you've taken into consideration that it may take a couple minutes to do the swaps. I cannot do that, because if it takes that long to switch between data, I might as well put the book on my desk , because I'll be looking at it for a few seconds at most. Just don't forget that before you swap to new stuff, like the plays, etc, you'll have to 1) delete the old backup of your standard Z's memory (w/appt, etc) and 2) back it up again, both only necessary if you've changed something (which could be as simple as checking off a to-do item). Personally, I could not wait three minutes (quoting the manual again) for it to restore another "Zaurus" for me so I could jump over to my Activities and see what's planned for lunch! I completely agree with you concerning the added safety of not needing a battery in your backup - that's important to me too. Your data's just not safe, in muy opinion, if it's dependant on something that could fail. As for the battery life part, I was simply quoting that as well, but I have spoken with another forum member who explained that he used his Z all the time at work w/o an AC adaptor, then simply used it for a while every night plugged in and *that* seriously increased his batteries' life, so it may just be offset by the time you spend at your desk (though I don't know). If you are interested in rechargeables, check out Rayovac's Renewal battery - I use these exclusively. BTW - I'm not sure where you are when you access your plays or if you have access to a phone line, but perhaps if you have time to swap backups, you'll have time to load up one of the plays on a 2MB SRAM card via Zaurus's Remote Access software from a PC at your desk or at home, or wherever (might save you some money in the long run, and won't ever run out of room that way). It's just an idea that you'd have to research - that's *not* in the manual Just keep in mind that you're not using your Zaurus, if you do this, the way they (Sharp) intended you to use it, and you'll pay the price in time/efficiency. Personally, I'm disappointed in the 2MB limit and hope they fix this in their next generation product. I pressed my old 9600II Wizard to do things it wasn't intended to do, and eventually became disgruntled with it because (naturally) it didn't do it very well. I hope you have better luck in your endeavors! Take care, - tk [ZR-5800+Sidecar+AutoPilot] #: 99667 S9/Sharp Zaurus 21-May-97 22:43:56 Sb: #99663-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 One last idea. Insert *** as a bookmark and then do a SEARCH on it and it will tell you where you left off reading. Good luck, Andy. --JHC #: 99695 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-May-97 08:53:33 Sb: #99669-Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Andy Rathbone 75300,1565 To: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 >> Personally, I could not wait three minutes (quoting the manual again) for it to restore another "Zaurus" for me so I could jump over to my Activities and see what's planned for lunch! << You've found the biggest hole in my bag of tricks! It would take a *long* time to switch back and forth between information on the cards. However, I figure if I have time to read a book on my Zaurus, I have time to wait a few minutes for it to load. When I'm on an airplane, I don't really have much choice in what I'm getting for lunch, anyway! #: 99800 S9/Sharp Zaurus 23-May-97 10:36:38 Sb: #99647-#Which mem card for Z 5xx Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 <<>> Hmmm...good point and I don't know. Anyone? -------------------------------- Bo, Jim: Yes :-)) I just tried it: I have Z-Em@il in the main unit. 1. I backed up my Z to a 2MB SRAM card. 2. I then deleted some messages in my Z-Em@il inbox 3. I restored, and the messages are back! Good news, right? Now for the real tough questions: 1. You have an SRAM card installed. On there, you have an appointment alarm set at 4pm. You also have a main unit daily alarm set to 4pm. Now it's 3:59pm and you are starting a Z-Em@il session to fetch your eMail. What happens? 2. You want to transfer the contents of a folder from main to (SRAM) card. You could eMail the folder to yourself via CIS. Now how can you download it into SRAM? CCZ won't do it AFAIK. Do I have to copy each entry individually via PC or cut&paste? Will terminal let me download a ZRF onto SRAM? 3. If you press RESET while holding down certain keys (or a certain key) the Zaurus gives you info on the software in ROM (it's version number and more). This is interesting, because some of our Zaurii (5800) have different versions. For instsance, some of the Zs will always show the oldest NOTES or DOCUMENTS entry FIRST (on top of the list) in the index view. The newer production runs do it vice-versa. What is this reset-key combination? 4. Are there Easter Eggs in the main software? 5. My Zaurus is plugged to the phone with the sidecar and I'm composing a PALMB message offline in CCZ. Now the phone rings, the Z automatically switches to INDEX view and my message goes to Egypt. Why? 6. My parents hifi remote needs no pointing. I think it uses ultra-sound. Would this be an alternative to IR in the future? 7. Can you help me with this? I received a forum message from Scott Campbell here a few weeks ago. I accidently deleted the message from my inbox before reading/responding. Why can I no longer find the message in the forum? I have spent many hours on CCZ AND on WinCIM looking for it; all with long distance calls to CIS. I used my ID as a search word in "TO:", then Scott's ID in "FROM", then Scott's name in "FROM". Every search brought back returns, but never THE message. Did this message go to Egypt, too, or can I get it back? 8. Why does my autopilot sometimes have a "problem receiving message" from the PALMB forum? Is it because the message may be too large? 9. CCZ: When reading a forum message and I switch font size the Z returns to the beginning of the text. When I am composing a message, it stays on cursor position. Just an inconsistency in the SW? Has this been corrected in the 3500X? 10. Why am I asking these questions when I should be studiing for my finals? Best regards, Marcus #: 100076 S9/Sharp Zaurus 26-May-97 13:32:04 Sb: #99796-#backups Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Douglas R. Lee 76720,1555 (X) Hello Douglas, A FLASH card creates a compleete backup of all data on your Zaurus, a SRAM card do not backup your add-on software and PCfiles. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 100077 S9/Sharp Zaurus 26-May-97 13:32:06 Sb: #99827-SRAM Cards Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Jeffrey R. Wiesendanger 110127,1711 Hello Jeffrey, I have a 1meg Newton SRAM card with I use all the time in the Zaurus. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 101021 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Jun-97 02:02:57 Sb: #100822-5800 VS 3500 Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 (X) Tibor, < Thanks Marcus, I didn't know that! I would be afraid of frying my Z, but I guess that's not so much of a risk as I'd thought. > The Zaurus tests the card for compatibility and power requirements when you turn it on. If the card is not fit for the Z, the Z will give you a message and then shut itself off. So, no need to worry about frying. Marcus #: 101023 S9/Sharp Zaurus 02-Jun-97 02:03:07 Sb: #100870-Sram Card Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Jeff Wiesendanger 110127,1711 (X) On one of the forums a year ago, I heard of a person using a Verbatim SRAM card!! I remember because my company was doing business with Verbatim at the time, and I tried to get one, but was told they had stopped production. So I think it should work. Marcus #: 103294 S9/Sharp Zaurus 17-Jun-97 19:40:40 Sb: #102885-help Fm: Leslie Dutton 76265,650 To: Pete-R 113072,1106 >>3. Dont leave your modem in the card slot when not in use - it does drain some power, as seen when you switch on your unit with and without a modem inserted.>> I'm not sure about modems, but here's the info on memory cards. SRAM cards have little effect on batteries. However, a flash memory card will drain your batteries if left in the slot. Someone in the forum did some extensive tests a year or so ago that showed a surprisingly high drain from the flash cards, especially at startup. Good luck! #: 103313 S9/Sharp Zaurus 17-Jun-97 22:24:11 Sb: #103294-help Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Leslie Dutton 76265,650 <<< SRAM cards have little effect on batteries. However, a flash memory card will drain your batteries if left in the slot.>>> It may have to do whether either card is being battery powered or not. Flash use internal Z current (no battery) whereas SRAM has it own battery. Either way it should be minimum with my guess w/flash using <<20% of no-brainer cheap AA battery current. Jim #: 103317 S9/Sharp Zaurus 17-Jun-97 22:31:32 Sb: #103299-Autopilot to RAM card? Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Robert Hayes 71431,3362 The 5800 has 1.6M available whereas a card has 2M. One can maybe pick up 400K by operating from a card leaving the Main for other things like PILI. Try those thoughts. Good luck. --JHC #: 103426 S9/Sharp Zaurus 18-Jun-97 14:27:58 Sb: Loading to Flash Card Fm: Imre L. Berty 104212,2762 To: Bo Lorentzen (sysop), 75300,2517 Dear Mr Lorentzen, I have a Zaurus 5000 with a 2 MB Flash Card, and ZR-5C03 (CompuServe Companion) software. I was unable to load this software to the card, although I had no problem to load the AT&T Mail access software to the card or to into the Zaurus' main memory. I also could load the Z-Finance to the main memory. Called Sharp, I was advised to send my unit to Texas for a memory upgrade. After this upgrade I still could not load the software to the flash card (which was correctly initialized and set-up leaving 1.3 MB for the CompuServe companion to load). I mailed Sharp my Flash Card and the software, they were kind enough to load it for me, and it works fine. The Flash Card is configured as follows: after the ZR-5C03 loaded, there is still 128K left for add-on programs, the remaining 504 K is left for archiving the ZR main memory data. The Problem: When I tried to install either the 97K size Demo program or the 32K Palmware Shortcut program from the PC files are, I got an error message that I did not have enough memory. Why? I also would prefer to reconfigure my Flash Card, to move the 128K unused Add-On program space to the "other side" so I would have about 630K left to Archive main memory data, but I am afraid to initialize the Flash Card, because I could never load the ZR-5C03 on it even when I set it up to allow the full 2MB (or so) for Add-On programs only. Could you give me some ideas what might be happening here? Everything, including the ZR-5C03 program functions perfectly. I often travel with the Zaurus. I use it often even though I have a PC and a laptop too. Thanks for your help. Regards, Imre L Berty iberty@compuserve.com #: 103666 S9/Sharp Zaurus 20-Jun-97 18:29:46 Sb: #103639-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 To: Pete-R 113072,1106 Peter, If you're only interested in a backup for your Z, then don't waste your money on an SRAM card, but focus soley on a flash ROM card. I have a 2MB SRAM in the mail (not for backup, mind you - my office PC does that for me), and it cost me U.S. $160 - best price I could find. That's as compared to approx. $70 for a flash ROM. You do the math. Also, the SRAM's require batteries to store the data - ROM's don't. Oh and, uh, don't waste your money if you're not gonna need it. I just found out today that a friend that moved across country can now provide me with a Pentium PC for $700 with everything I'll need. My panting Z is overjoyed at finally seeing a light at the end of its overworked tunnel (in a month or so), and I'm wishing I hadn't just sunk the cash in the SRAM ... Guess I'll get to carry around alot of programming notes and project summaries now, huh? Happy bargain hunting, - Tibor (ZR-5800FX + AutoPilot) #: 103820 S9/Sharp Zaurus 22-Jun-97 08:04:29 Sb: #103772-Sram Card Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Jeff Wiesendanger 110127,1711 Make sure you have the card battery the right side up as well try it again w/the SECRET password deleted. Try fresh batteries in the Z, also. Good luck, Jeff. --JHC #: 105272 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Jul-97 09:30:54 Sb: #105247-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Les Falke 76001,3044 Along with what Bo says SRAM is better in most cases but more expensive. Reasons: 1. You can mirror your Z giving you 1M to 2M more of "non-contiguous" memory. This means you have 6 more databases. 2. You can operate from the SCRAM card as the default giving you a full 2M vs 1.6M with the Z. 3. An SRAM card can do the above or backup, not both. My wife has a 5800 also and I backup mine to an SRAM card, put it in hers and I don't have to take mine when we go out. A purse is always better than a coat pocket. :) 4. Most, if not all, add on programs will run out of SRAM whereas a few won't w/flash (don't remember). 5. SRAM requires a battery, flash use the Z's. One would assume flash causes the Z's battery to run down faster with flash, although minimally. 6. Card backups are infinitely faster than a PC. See my section 9 library file ZBACKUP.TXT for my tests. Take it out after backing up, though, and store it in a safe place. Toronto's Leslie taught me that, right Leslie? :) 7. Used 1M Newton flash cards go for as low as 25 bucks on the internet & CSi Newton forum. I have many + 3 or 4 SRAM's. Used 1M SRAM's are hard to find and go for >$50 when found. 8. You'll need a 2M SRAM to run PILI and it's programs...and you'll need to delete most of you main Z to load it! I think it requires >500K in main memory to load it. A cheap 2M flash would be the best bet but also 2X the backup by doing it to your PC, also. 9. Your manual has more, along with the library file ZCARDS.TXT. 10. I have installed a 2M SRAM with most of the Rupp programs on it, 6 more databases, and don't run PILI, but I could. I have Z-EM@IL installed in main memory in case I use my Motorola cellular phone and my Motorola PCMCIA card to get my email. I also have the libraries free AUTOPILOT upgrade in main memory for the same reason. Good luck. --JHC 8. #: 105277 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Jul-97 10:08:00 Sb: #105247-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Les Falke 76001,3044 Yes, Bo is right. The closest you can come to "expanding" the memory of your Z5800 is a 2MB SRAM (1MB for the ZR5000). The card will give you "a second Zaurus", meaning 3 more CONTACT Files, one DOCUMENTS app, one SPREADSHEET app, one more FILER app with fresh folders etc. The only setback is that you can only access either the apps on the card OR in main at one time. You need to switch memory every time via the TOOLS menu. You can, however, store add-on software on the card also and access it via the MORE section without switching the memory source in TOOLS. Marcus marcus@cscout.com #: 105318 S9/Sharp Zaurus 06-Jul-97 00:22:30 Sb: #105264-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Les Falke 76001,3044 Hello Les, For the most freedom I recomend a 2meg SRAM card. Bo *Zaurus Chat, July 13. Noon PST* (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 105329 S9/Sharp Zaurus 06-Jul-97 02:50:34 Sb: #105264-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Marcus Green 100445,2577 To: Les Falke 76001,3044 < Thanks for the info. However, I'm still confused. If I want to run a program from the card, ie. PILI or Rupp Games, what type of card do I need? > Both cards can run up to 2MB of add-on programs. But the SRAM card also allows you to store PC Files (eg PILI games) as well as contacts, etc. This way, the add-on programs can take advantage of the SRAM card for storage of their data. Marcus marcus@cscout.com #: 105294 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Jul-97 18:20:21 Sb: #105247-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 To: Les Falke 76001,3044 Les, If you have access to the web, check out www.pdapage.com for the lowest price out there for the SRAM card and where to order it from (usually linked right to it). Happy Z'ing, - Tibor (ZR-5800FX + AutoPilot) #: 105325 S9/Sharp Zaurus 06-Jul-97 01:34:30 Sb: #104973-ATA compatible? Fm: R. A. Davis 74022,557 To: Steve McAllister (Blaze) 110021,364 >> Like - What the hell is ATA? (-: It sounds cool.<< It is short for AT Attachment. It meets the "old" IBM PC-AT standards for direct attachment to compatible PCs. Think of it as the ISA bus but I'm not sure if they are one and the same. The Zaurus is not a PC machine so that's why Sharp says non-ATA cards only. RAD in Hong Kong (yet again.) * From my Zaurus K-PDA * #: 105350 S9/Sharp Zaurus 06-Jul-97 10:57:19 Sb: #105277-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Marcus Green 100445,2577 Hello Marcus, I gennerally choose to place my software on the SRAM card, and data in the main memory because that way I can backup my data to a flash card. However I have been thinking about swopping and placing all the add-on softwar in the main RAM to get more speed, and then use the SRAM card as my main memory, that would get me 2meg rather than 1.6 meg and that would also be enough space for my software, BUT, then I would have to backup to the Mac once a day. and that would take a while. Bo #: 105371 S9/Sharp Zaurus 06-Jul-97 18:27:56 Sb: #105272-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Leslie Dutton 76265,650 To: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 >>Toronto's Leslie taught me that, right Leslie? :)>> Sheesh ... looks like you're never going to let me forget it either!! I hearby officially relinquish claim to that brilliant concept and move it into the "public" domain! BTW, the SRAM you sold me BEFORE you discovered this concept, is still working wonderfully! I use my flash card for backups and the SRAM for expense mgr and games. Leslie #: 105903 S9/Sharp Zaurus 12-Jul-97 20:42:32 Sb: #105901-2Meg Memory Cards US/UK Fm: Jim Christian (Sysop) 74777,2604 To: Les Falke 76001,3044 I guess there are new cards for the Newton. My 1M, 2M and 4M Apple Newton flash cards have worked with my 110, 120 and 130. They are red labeled. Try the companies in section 9 library file ZWEBS.TXT. Start with rupp.com, pygmy.com, j&r.com and 47thstphoto.com. Good luck. --JHC #: 107897 S9/Sharp Zaurus 01-Aug-97 20:19:32 Sb: #107857-PCMCIA modem Fm: Tibor T. Kun 110072,2656 To: Jim McIlroy 100044,3512 Hi Jim, Yes, it connects solidly to the computer link (and is a hassle to take on and off, so you'll probably eventually want to get an IR link for your Zaurus if you don't have one already and need to connect to a PC). I bought mine at Rupp (http://www.rupp.com) and like 'em, but cannot tell you exactly who would have the best price. You may want to check out the PDA Page (http://www.pdapage.com), as they have links to the best prices for accessories for not only the Zaurus but others. Their site was where I went to find the best price on an SRAM card for my Zaurus. Regards, - Tibor #: 108353 S9/Sharp Zaurus 07-Aug-97 08:47:49 Sb: #108241-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 To: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 >Still I think that I will recomend a FLASH card for a backup because it does not use a on-board battery, and it takes a "snap-shot" of the entire main RAM, the SRAM card do not backup the installed software.< All good reasons for using Flash for backup, as is the fact that it is cheaper than SRAM. I have no disagreement even though I've gone the other way. Both are good solutions. In my case I decided to keep all add-on software on an SRAM card to save internal RAM for data, so I wouldn't have to switch between main and card all the time. (At least until I filled the Z completely with data, which I am now well on the way to doing!) So it didn't matter whether I could back up programs. And having a battery in the SRAM is an advantage in that you don't use the Z batteries, although of course it means you need to change it every 1-5 years. (I know they SAY they last one year, but they frequently last WAY longer than that.) If I were using the card for ARCHIVE, where I would want to keep it in a drawer and not worry from one year to the next whether the batteries were low, I'd _definitely_ opt for Flash. In fact, I think I'm going to want to get one soon for just that purpose. Regards, Suzanne #: 108155 S9/Sharp Zaurus 04-Aug-97 12:20:26 Sb: #Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Mark Joseph 110115,1723 To: ALL To All, I always handled my Zaurus with such great care. Now less then a year after I bought my ZR5800FX it died. Two days ago I noticed that the Z was killing brand new Batteries in less then 24Hrs without use. After 3 sets went dead in 3 days the Z itself crashed while In use and has never turned on again. I tried every trick (new batts, checked batt cover, AC, Reset) It is Monday and My Z is dead. The most recent backup is 4 months ago (Dumb). Needless to say I am lost, much information is lost (Nearly all Business) Where do I go from here? New Z? Windows CE? Paper Planner? J #: 108184 S9/Sharp Zaurus 04-Aug-97 20:25:50 Sb: #108171-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Mark Joseph 110115,1723 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 (X) Dear Suzanne, Thanks for the letter. I went to the store to look at the machines they have there. After about 90 seconds on a CE machine I decided it was not for me and was reminded what a great machine the Z is. I could not go one day without my Z and bought another one today. I do have a 2meg scram card with a 4month old backup on it so I have the bulk of my data. This experience reminded me how much I depend on the Zaurus everyday. I will take your advice regarding backups. What do you think of flash cards as backups? Take care, Mark #: 108241 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Aug-97 16:04:29 Sb: #108171-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 (X) Hello Suzanne, Yeah, I just did a backup for the same reason. Still I think that I will recomend a FLASH card for a backup because it does not use a on-board battery, and it takes a "snap-shot" of the entire main RAM, the SRAM card do not backup the installed software. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 108201 S9/Sharp Zaurus 04-Aug-97 23:31:02 Sb: #108155-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Kai Schmidt 106430,1223 To: Mark Joseph 110115,1723 (X) "to say I am lost, much information is lost (Nearly all Business) Where do I go from here? New Z? Windows CE? Paper Planner?" Mark, maybe Jim knows somebody who can help you. But if it's really dead I would wait for the new Z or get a series 5. - Kai - ( via ZR-5800 + Autopilot ) #: 108399 S9/Sharp Zaurus 07-Aug-97 20:28:58 Sb: #108353-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 Hello Suzanne, Well, I agree with you as always, I use the AC power when backing up so I do not have a power issue. And yes my SRAM cards have lasted well past one year by now. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 108388 S9/Sharp Zaurus 07-Aug-97 19:45:57 Sb: #108248-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Mark Joseph 110115,1723 Hello Mark, Glad you got anothger Z, I am sure that you will love it, now remember to do a Backup daily, ofcause you may choose to do it weekly, depends on how much you change your data, Personaly I have a FLASH card at home which lets me backup before leaving in the morning.... Every morning. And about once a week I also do a backup to my Mac. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 108421 S9/Sharp Zaurus 07-Aug-97 22:29:24 Sb: #108353-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Nathan Wajsman 100712,3112 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 < And having a battery in the SRAM is an advantage in that you don't use the Z batteries, although of course it means you need to change it every 1-5 years. (I know they SAY they last one year, but they frequently last WAY longer than that.) > Suzanne, PMFJI, but have you ever changed your SRAM batteries yet, and if so, how do you know when they are low? Does the Zaurus give you an indication of some sort? I have looked in the manual but see nothing on that topic. Or do you simply change them at fixed intervals (e.g. 1 year)? Nathan #: 108475 S9/Sharp Zaurus 08-Aug-97 13:03:52 Sb: #108353-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 >> (I know they SAY they last one year, but they frequently last WAY longer than that.) << A good point and little known fact. When I had my 5000 and kept an SRAM card in it, I was constantly nervous about it because all the literature said the battery had to be replaced every year, and there was/is no battery indicator for the card. Therefore, I kept two SRAM cards (one with a much newer battery), in case one died without warning. However both were still chugging along fine 2 1/2 years (though I did keep the 5000 plugged into the EA-23E during the day). - Michael - #: 108470 S9/Sharp Zaurus 08-Aug-97 10:47:45 Sb: SRAM battery Fm: Mark Wolk 100371,2120 To: Nathan Wajsman 100712,3112 Hello Nathan, Yes, the Z does tell you when the battery of the SRAM card has to be replaced. It is a message you can't miss; it appears well before it is too late. It happened to me 2 weks ago. I kept my old battery for a week before I managed to buy the right size. When changing the battery of the SRAM card, leave the card in the Z, and leave the Z on. Mark (via ZR-5000 & Piiceon modem) #: 108502 S9/Sharp Zaurus 08-Aug-97 21:48:17 Sb: #108470-SRAM battery Fm: Nathan Wajsman 100712,3112 To: Mark Wolk 100371,2120 (X) Mark, Thanks for the info, it is a relief to know that my Z will tell me when it's time to change the SRAM battery. Nathan (via Z-2 and Nokia GSM on holiday in Italy) #: 108241 S9/Sharp Zaurus 05-Aug-97 16:04:29 Sb: #108171-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Bo Lorentzen (Sysop) 75300,2517 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 (X) Hello Suzanne, Yeah, I just did a backup for the same reason. Still I think that I will recomend a FLASH card for a backup because it does not use a on-board battery, and it takes a "snap-shot" of the entire main RAM, the SRAM card do not backup the installed software. Bo (via SHARP ZR-5800FX+AutoPilot) #: 108582 S9/Sharp Zaurus 09-Aug-97 18:09:22 Sb: #108421-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 To: Nathan Wajsman 100712,3112 Nathan, >PMFJI, but have you ever changed your SRAM batteries yet, and if so, how do you know when they are low? Does the Zaurus give you an indication of some sort? I have looked in the manual but see nothing on that topic. Or do you simply change them at fixed intervals (e.g. 1 year)?< Good questions. I have had the Z and the SRAMs for about 1.5 years. I haven't yet had to change the lithium batteries in either the Z (the little backup battery), or the SRAM cards. My husband has SRAM cards in an older DOS palmtop where he has never changed the SRAM batteries. That's 3-4 years so far. I thought I remembered seeing something in the manuals about a message from the Z on SRAM battery getting low. But I read all the docs 1.5 years ago, and don't know if I remember correctly. I know I remember you change the SRAM batteries while the card is in the Z, so you don't lose data while you change. If you changed once a year, you'd be totally safe. Suzanne #: 108583 S9/Sharp Zaurus 09-Aug-97 18:09:25 Sb: #108475-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 To: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 Michael Thanks for the data point. >(though I did keep the 5000 plugged into the EA-23E during the day).< Does the SRAM take power from the Z when the Z is on AC? I didn't realize that. It's good to know, although I don't have an AC adapter for the Z anyway. Suzanne #: 108645 S9/Sharp Zaurus 10-Aug-97 13:00:51 Sb: #108583-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Kai Schmidt 106430,1223 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 Hello Suzanne, ;Does the SRAM take power from the Z when the Z is on AC? I didn't realize that. It's good to know, although I don't have an AC adapter for the Z anyway.+ AFAIK the SRAM card uses its own battery. The flash takes it from the Z. Greetings from sunny Germany and me being on vacation. - Kai - #: 108712 S9/Sharp Zaurus 11-Aug-97 06:33:30 Sb: #108583-Zaurus FAILED me! Fm: Michael H. Cohn 73377,2222 To: Suzanne Shea 70402,3150 >> Does the SRAM take power from the Z when the Z is on AC? << Honestly, I don't know. Maybe the SRAM batteries last longer than conventional wisdom or maybe it was the AC adapter use which prolonged its life. Don't know which, only that it lasted a lot longer than it was supposed to from all I had read. - Michael -