Handtops, UMPC - New Handheld Sharp has just released the D4 -UMPC handheld! -

08/25/08 + primaz

full review at last!
link

Here is a just a bit of the review, full link above:

The Willcom D4 (Sharp WS016SH) UMPC is currently the smallest-screened Centrino Atom device running Windows Vista in the world. Launched alongside the Kohjinsha SC3 on July 11th in Japan, the 40GB slide-and-tilt handheld computer is an unlikely candidate to see an official release outside of Asia, but that doesn't mean it can't make it to American soil. With the help of an importer like Conics.net, anything is possible.

But is the 1-pound UMPC worth the premium import price (about $1500 new, $1200 used)? Read my full review below to find out.

System Specifications
OS: Windows Vista Home Premium
CPU:
1.33GHz Intel Atom Z520
Chipset:
Intel US15W, GMA500
RAM: 1GB DDR2 SDRAM (soldered onto motherboard)
Storage: 40GB HDD (1.8" Toshiba MK4009GAL, 4200 rpm)
Expansion: MicroSD card slot

Display: 5” touchscreen (1024 x 600, 262K colors, LED-backlit)

Wireless: 802.11b/g, Bluetooth 2.0
(1Seg TV tuner & phone functions work in Japan only)
Camera: 2 megapixels
Size: 7.4" x 3.3" x 1.0"
Weight: 1 lb. (with standard battery)

Take a look at my Willcom D4 unboxing for photos of the packaging and included accessories. An extended battery, docking cradle (review), and other accessories are available separately.

Design

The glossy black D4, perhaps taking a cue from the HTC Shift, features a slide-and-tilt design that encourages versatility in the way it can be used.

Held between two hands, the D4 is a slider UMPC to entertain those waiting in line, lounging on the sofa, or commuting to work. Its rounded all-black casing, accented with silver trim and glowing red controls, is eye-catching and undeniably attractive.
Set atop a flat surface, screen tilted to best suit the user, the D4 becomes a miniature notebook for sending email at coffee shops and editing documents at work. Its smooth, streamlined body and sturdy build give it a look of sophistication and professionalism.
Left in slate form, screen orientation switched to portrait mode, the D4 is a small tablet for taking notes in meetings, reading eBooks, and viewing daily appointments at a glance. Its long yet compact form factor makes it easy to hold and slip into/out of a jacket pocket, briefcase, or bag unnoticed.
The glossy surface, used around the display only, is not resistant to fingerprints and smudges, but it doesn't collect them too quickly/easily either. Extended use of the unit with oily thumbs will leave behind some arch, loop, and whorl evidence, but it's nothing a quick wipe with a cloth (or sleeve) can't get rid of.

Size

View my D4 size comparison post for photos of the Centrino Atom slider alongside a handful of other UMPCs, a few other gadgets, and some common household items.

review of the docking station:
link

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