ROM: Read Only Memory. The memory in which the operating system and built-in programs are installed on a palmtop computer. It cannot be edited.

RAM: Random Access Memory. The memory, sometimes known as the 'internal disk', on which programs and files are installed and run on a palmtop computer. It can be changed at any time, but will be lost if the computer runs completely out of power.

Q. What is the Revo?
A. The Revo is Psion Computers' newest palmtop computer, dubbed 'the switched-on organizer'. It combines organizer functions with productivity tools and the potential to add new programs in a small package.

Q. What operating system does it run?
A. Symbian EPOC Revision 5.

Q. Is it compatible with the Psion Series 5/5mx/7/netBook, Ericsson MC218, Oregon Scientific Osaris and the discontinued Geofox One?
A. On the whole, yes - they all run EPOC and use the same files. However, some programs will not fit on the Revo's screen, and a small number will have other problems.

Q. Does it have a backlight?
A. No. It does have a reflective backing to the screen, though, which helps with visibility. However, there is no way to see the screen in total darkness.

Q. How good is the screen?
A. The screen is the best of all the greyscale Psions, and is on par with the Palm V. Its background is slightly green and it can display up to 16 greys. The resolution is 480x160 pixels, and the screen area is 115x38mm. As with all Psions since the Series 5, the screen is touch sensitive.

Q. How easy to use is the keyboard?
A. The keyboard is not as good as the Series 5/5mx's, as the keys have little travel (ie, do not move down much when pushed) and hinge at the bottom. They do not take too much pressure to push, though. Getting used to them can take a couple of days, but can be typed quite comfortably on at speeds of up to about 40-50 words per minute if you are a competent typist. It is not a touch-type keyboard, in that you are very unlikely to be able to fit all of your fingers onto the keyboard. Key clicks can be turned on to help typing.

Q. How much memory does it have? Can it take some sort of disks?
A. The Revo has 8MB of RAM (storage and program running space) and 8MB or 16MB of ROM, depending on your language. It cannot take Compact Flash disks or SmartMedia disks, or any other sort of removable storage.

Q. How long is the battery life?
A. Approximately 12 hours, depending on the amount of infra-red communications and sound that you use. When there is hardly any power left, the Revo will switch off and keep its memory intact for about 2 weeks. You must recharge to use the machine again. It has built-in AAA NiMH batteries.

Q. Does it connect to Windows and Mac PCs?
A. Yes and yes. For Windows, PsiWin 2.3 is supplied for connection, backup, file conversion and program installation. MacConnect can do the same for the Mac, but it must be purchased separately. Communication is via serial port and a docking station is supplied.

Q. What is its processor?
A. An ARM 710T, running at 36.864Mhz. This is more than enough power to run a Revo, and is the same as the Series 5mx.

Q. Does it have the same programs as a Series 5mx?
A. Mostly. Word, Sheet, Data, Agenda etc. are all present, and the only ones missing from the set are Comms, Bombs (replaced by Cascade, a new game), Program and Sketch. Spell is supplied on the PsiWin CD and can be installed, but will take up RAM space. New for the Revo, apart from Cascade, are Phone, a program to keep contacts in sync with a mobile phone, and eSetup for simplifying setting up internet access.

Q. Can the Revo run Java programs?
A. No. Java is not supplied and cannot be installed due to limited RAM space.

Q. Can the Revo access the Internet?
A. Yes, provided that you have either an infra-red GSM mobile phone with a modem, the Psion Dacom Infrared Travel Model or a convertor for a standard serial modem, which can be connected via the docking station. Email is on the ROM, and Web can be installed from CD.

Q. Is the Revo better than the Series 5mx, or any other portable computer?
A. It depends on your needs and budget. The Revo is suitable for mostly organizational work, and maybe occasional word processing, spreadsheet or database work. If you need more, look for a different machine, such as the Series 5mx, or even the colour Series 7 or netBook. For something simpler and cheaper, for just organizing, try the Palm series from Palm Computers. If you want an all-singing, all-dancing but expensive computer, look for a Pocket PC running Microsoft's Windows CE operating system.

Q. Why isn't Spell on my PsiWin 2.3 CD?
A. First, try looking for D:\Extras\Spell\English\spell.sis on the disc (replace D with your own CD drive letter if it is different). If it's there, connecct your Revo and double-click on the spell.sis file to install. If not, you may want to contact Psion. Some non-UK CDs appear not to contain Spell.

Q. How do I install .sis files?
A. Most downloaded software is packaged in a .sis file. To install, connect your Revo to your PC and double-click on the .sis file in Windows Explorer/My Computer to install. If you use a Mac, the technique should be similar.

Q. How do I uninstall programs?
A. Go to System, then Control panel on the toolbar. Scroll to the right and double-tap on Add/remove. Choose a program from the list and tap Remove.

Q. Why do I get the error 'In use' if I try to delete a file?
A. A program currently has the file open. Close the program, or all programs if necessary, and then try again.

Q. Why am I told 'Access denied' if I try to test an alarm sound?
A. You have sound disabled. Go to System, then Control panel on the toolbar. Scroll to the right, and double-tap Sound. Make sure 'Sounds on' has a tick, and click OK.