Clamshell Zaurus SL-C700 Coming to U.S.

Last month, Sharp introduced the Zaurus SL-C700, a Linux-powered handheld with an integrated keyboard that can be used in the traditional tablet shape or reconfigured into a mini-laptop. Unfortunately, Sharp is only offering it in Japan. However, Dynamism is now offering the SL-C700 for $700 with an English version of the operating system installed and supported by Dynamism.

Despite being only 3.5 inches when measured diagonally, the SL-C700's screen is 640 by 480 pixels (VGA). It uses a 400mhz Intel XScale processor and includes 32 MB of RAM. It also has a CompactFlash slot. At 7.9 ounces and 4.7 by 3.3 by .7 inches, the whole handheld is only slightly larger than the other members of the Zaurus line. It uses a 950 mA battery that can power the C700 for about 4 hours.

According to a Dynamism representative, the first shipment has left Japan and will arrive in the U.S. in a few days. Then the English language OS will need to be installed, which will take a week or two. The representative reports heavy demand for this device.