The Zaurus is being touted as a powerful business tool jammed full of leading-edge multimedia features.

"The Zaurus SL-5500 offers consumers a powerful alternative to conventional PDAs," said Steve Petix, associate vice president. Sharp Mobile Solution and IT Group. "The new Zaurus SL-5500 combines the functionality of a computer and multimedia system wrapped in a sleek package perfect for someone on the go."

Besides wireless capabilities to check e-mail and browse the Web, the Zaurus comes equipped with a comprehensive software package including address book, calendar, calculator, text editor and Word and Excel viewing and editing capabilities as well as a PC synchronization program for Outlook.

When it’s time to have fun, the device becomes a multimedia center. With a high-resolution color screen, voice recorder, and MP3 and MPEG-1 multimedia player, the Zaurus makes viewing a movie or popping in a video simple, the company says.

Features of the Zaurus SL-5500

• 206 MHz processor
• 64 MB SDRAM
• Linux-based platform
• Personal Java
• Reflective TFT LCD screen with 240 x 320 pixel, 65,536 colors
• Dual expansion slots
• Built-in QWERTY keyboard, also features handwriting recognition
• MP3 and MPEG-1 multimedia player
• Voice Recorder

In a separate statement, Sharp said it’s working with Aether Systems to develop Sharp Mobile Services, an end-to-end wireless solution, including modem ordering, fulfillment, network service, billing, customer service and support.