Sharp Netwalker PC-Z1 © EDV Pulster, Germany - www.pulster.de - info@pulster.de

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

-Where can I find informations about the Sharp Netwalker ?

Sharp Japan Support Site (Google translation) - Online Manual (Google translation) - Sharp Japan original Product pages - Product review - Unboxing Infos
Videos can be found an youtube: here and here (English) and here (German).

- Quick Specifications ?

- comparison with Psion / Zaurus ?

Size comparison see picture (link)

- input options ?

Keyboard: QWERTY keyboard layout, key pitch 14mm

Touchscreen & optical pointer (mouse):

- system OS options ?

Preinstalled is Linux Ubutu 9.04 ARM (japanese customized veriant), what else do you need ? :-) There is no way to install Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7 on it. If you are desparate in changing the OS, see kernel-flash instructions here, Debian port and Android port is on the way. Also Windows 95 is emulating well :)

- language options ?

All Ubuntu language settings can be used, this means all common languages are available. The unit can be localised to your local laguage very good.

- what do I need to start with ?

The Sharp Netwalker comes with all you need to start: mains power supply, internal battery. There is no printed manual, stylus pen, nor USB communication cable included.

- charging options ?

The mains power supply has an input of 100-240V, which means worldwide use. The power cord with Japanese plugs can easily replaced with a European one. We already include a european cable for free.
The battery is not removeable.

- colour options ?

Black, white, red. In general we prefer black units, however the black Netwalker is quite a bit tricky with fingertips. This time our favourite color option is red. It's far from sissy, but a classy eye-catcher, check real life picture (link).

F.A.Q. - for Netwalker users:

- Where to download Flash Lite Update ?

Please click here: Rapidshare download. Extract archvice file and click on install.sh. Now you have a YouTube-viewer in your pocket.

- How to reset the unit ?

Some first informations can be found here: Sharp Support Site (Google translation), Wiki Netwalker.

- Further informations ?

Check out the japanese FAQ with google translations. Community forum (German):

- What peripherals can be used with the Netwalker ?

Sharp compiled a list of working accessories here (link). It states that these external USB devices can be used: harddrives (not bus powered), DVD-drives, wireless router, mouse, keyboard, headset and memory sticks. Besides David Samblas from Tuxbrain.com explain in this How-To (link) how to attach a external monitor/projector, so you can use your Netwalker for presentations !

- Is the battery replaceable ?

Short answer: no. Long answer: disassembling the unit means a loss of warranty. The battery pack is not user accessibel, but prepared for exchange of Sharp services. For details click picture please.

- Input of special characters ?

Please create file ".Xmodmap" in your home-directory like this (example adds German 'Umlaute"):

keycode 49=Mode_switch
clear mod3
add mod3 = Mode_switch
keycode 38 = a A adiaeresis Adiaeresis
keycode 32 = o O odiaeresis Odiaeresis
keycode 30 = u U udiaeresis Udiaeresis
keycode 39 = s S ssharp
keycode 26 = e E EuroSign

After reboot, confirm startup of this keymap, otherwise start it manualy: xmodmap .Xmodmap
Now you can enter special characters using the Japanese key (bottom row 4th key from left, next to 'Alt") + character key.

- How do I connect the Netwalker to Internet ?

Most easy option is to use internal WLAN/Wifi card. For HSDPA/UMTS/EDGE/GPRS the Huawei E160 USB-Stick ("Fonic Surf-Stick" (old variant!) works "plug and play" perfectly fine.

- How do I connect the Netwalker to my PC ?

tbc

- How do I connect the Netwalker to my mobile ?

tbc

tbc = to be continued - YOUR information imput is very welcome !

© EDV Pulster, Germany - www.pulster.de - info@pulster.de