One of the challenges for developers of 95LX-related products is how to reach the end user. The HP Palmtop Paper is the leading way to get the word out. However, probably 10% at most of the world's 95LX users subscribe, or have access to The HP Palmtop Paper. We are making a concerted effort over the coming months to increase that number. Word-of-mouth advertising is the most effective way, and we appreciate your help.
This still leaves the developer with the challenge of reaching his end user. In the U.S. market, two companies seem to have invested the most time and effort in developing and distributing products: Sparcom and ACE.
Many developers have arranged to have these two companies distribute their product. For example, Sparcom is now distributing the Globalink foreign translation cards, the Austrian-originated Swift!Basic programming language reviewed in this issue, and Pocket Sales Force discussed in the last issue.
ACE not only distributes its Stacker-based Double Card and regular RAM cards, it is selling software like the BATTman and Switch! utilities discussed in this issue. According to Andy Fu, President of ACE, and Steve Bares, President of Sparcom, both companies are planning to broaden their HP 95LX line of products in the coming months.
In the meantime, EduCALC, a mail order retailer, has the most complete range of products for the 95LX user in the U.S..
International distributors of The HP Palmtop Paper (England, France, Germany, The Netherlands, and Belgium) are another possible distribution channel for 95LX-related products. (We welcome Supplyline as our new U.K. distributor: Phone: 081-744-0022; Fax: 081-744-0045).