Customer Reviews
Unable to connect via USB cable 
2008-10-03
The OZ-290HII works as a PDA but I tried several times on 2 different computers running Win98 to get the USB connection to work. And I can use a USB keyboard, a USB optical mouse, a USB cable for my digital camera, ect.
The software installs okay, but it never seems to find a port to use on the USB cable. So IMHO basically this PDA is worthless to anyone who wants to share data with the desktop pc. Maybe it will work on XP or Vista but I definitely can NOT get a USB connection via Win98 2nd edition.
Next time I'll get a PDA with wireless and USB connections, just so I have a better chance of bring data into my pc.
Dark 2008-08-31
I purchased a Sharp Wizard Organizer, & found it to be very difficult to read. The writing is very dark & even when you use the very little lighted back area, it's still almost impossible to read at night.
Dr. Marvin Handler
don't buy 
2008-06-30
I purchased this PDA new and with in 1 week the time was off (new batteries also) the alarm only worked part of the time, so it was useless to me being that the reason for purchasing it was to remind me of meetings and appointments. I did like the case design but trying to figure out how to make everything work is somewhat difficult and I am usually good with electronics. I can't imagine someone with a limited skill with electronics trying to make this work without using the manual constantly. I have read where there is a problem linking it to your computer but I never tried it before sending it back and buying a Palm. I thought I could save some money and get by with this one but no chance. So my recommendation would be to spend the extra money and get one that's been proven to work well.
list-making impossible 2008-06-25
I used to have the original model of this PDA and used it primarily to set up categories in the Memo section for shopping, etc., then made lists that I could take to the stores to use. Very handy. No little hand-written notes swimming in my bag.... This new model lacks both backspace and return functions, which are very important in keyboarding! It is impossible to make lists in the Memo function of this PDA. Overall, I found the product to be clunky and unintuitive. Anyone want mine?? :)
After 4 years of usage... 
2008-06-09
I used the OZ-290H, the precursor to 290HII. Used it for four years and now the screen has gone all flaky on me-- many of the numbers and digits wont appear at all on the entry pad. So I am now going for HII. Four years of regular usage is good enough for me. So my feedback is on the earlier 290H model which I think is mostly valid for this model too. Plan to modify this feedback once I get my 290HII. PS: Got the 290 HII model and it is the same as the 290H. No difference whatsoever as far as I can see.
I use it for:
1. Phone #s, addresses, etc.
2. Memo: Take short notes, like some shop names, passwords, note of books to buy, etc.
Pros:
1. Cheap, light-weight, and easy to use. Never lost the stylus.
2. Does all the basic organizer functions that I need.
3. Many a times I use my fingers and not the stylus and it works ok.
4. Battery life for my usage (about twice a day) is about 2 yrs.
5. Computer backup is great. I backup once in 6 months or so.
6. Nicely fits into my pocket without a bulge.
7. Has a sturdy flip top to protect the screen.
8. 1MB or so of memory is more than enough. I ended up using about 25% after 4 years of gathering all the information + adding from 3-yrs worth from my old YO Sharp organizer. But then, I never worked in 'Sales' or customer contact.
Cons:
1. Cannot backup to my Vista computer. So I use my XP laptop for this.
2. The memo feature limits the character entry. I find this annoying being used to their earlier YO digital diaries. Not such a big deal.
3. Information backup is not in an easy-to-use/modify excel/word file. I get a .bak file for backup that I cannot easily open. BUT, it allows me to 'export' in .csv format each of the sections.
4. Kind of clunky-- especially with no backspace and 'enter' (new-line) button.
Stop Consider : Very Poor Quality 2008-02-18
Sharp organizers are recognized all over the world as the source for getting organized. You'll discover it was never easier to find time once you get your hands and your life on a Sharp organizer.OZ-290 stores thousands of personal entries, Syncs with Microsoft Outlook with included CD-ROM software and PC Link cable, features 14 x 5 line display with backlight. Word Translator Mode allows for approximately 20, 000 English/Spanish translations. 3 Phone Books allow for easy look up of thousands of addresses and phone numbers. Schedule Function with Alarm allows you to keep track of all your appointments. Protective Flip Cover helps protect your display from scratches and other damage.
Refurbished need more Re 2007-12-26
Take care in purchasing the factory refurbished, although they look new they may still be unuseable.
Good but missing key ingredient 
2007-10-30
This is a good product for keeping track of your daily appointments. The one bad thing about it is that it is not compatible with outlook 2007. I am guessing that it is compatable with other versions of outlook. The seller was reluctant to answer my questions about compatibility. They did give me a return authorization to sent it back. I did keep the product because it is a good product. The upgrade is coming out in mid 2008 according to Sharp products.
Love It 2007-10-18
Easy to use, covers all the bases. A useful product at a reasonable price! Couldn't live without it now.
hard to use 2007-09-17
After hours of trying everything in the manual, online and customer support I am still unbale to link this device to my computer. Without Outlook one cannot view a schedule, you can only set an alarm. Not very useful to a busy mom. I was really looking for a way to keep up my calendar. It is nice looking and I am sure if I could link it it may even be a good electronic calendar. I guess the bottom line is - you get what you pay for...I will try to unload mine at a garage sale
