Bilingual Computing:
The Never-Ending Story
Recently, I've received several inquiries about using laptops with Japanese keyboards, and their compatibility with non-Japanese operating systems and applications. It's an ongoing problem that I have had to deal with for years - as well as anyone in Japan who works in a non-Japanese language.
by Thomas Caldwell
All one has to do with a conventional Japanese desktop is to unplug the kanji keyboard and plug in an English, French, Russian, or whatever keyboard. But with a kanji-keyboard notebook, things begin to get difficult.
The first and obvious option is to buy a non-Japanese PC outside Japan and bring it here yourself. Unfortunately, this suddenly becomes a bad idea if the little beastie breaks down (something that recently happened to me) and has to be shipped back to the country of purchase. The inconvenience and cost are an annoyance at best.
Then there is the "ignore-it" solution. That is, just ignore the fact you are using a Japanese keyboard with English Windows, for example, and try to make do the best you can with some of the keys being in the wrong places. I know many foreign business execs who regularly use a Japanese keyboard and seem to get along just fine. However, if you choose this path be sure you thoroughly test the keyboard with the software you plan on using before buying it, and if you're not a touch typist memorize the "real" layout of the keyboard (which doesn't match that shown on the keytops). This especially goes for the mission critical punctuation keys (such as \ and *).
[Or, if you want to use a Japanese keyboard "as is" with English Windows 95, see this month's Help Desk (page 16) for a description of how to install the Japanese Win95 keyboard driver.-Ed.]
You may be surprised to learn that not all Japanese PCs have the traditional backslash key. Japanese DOS uses the yen key in its place. While this problem is easily fixed if you know how to reprogram your keyboard, you are still stuck if you want a large space bar and the other physical attributes you come to expect from your native language.
The other solution to getting a non-Japanese interface with Japan-based warrantees, service, and support is to buy (often at a higher price) at one of the stores that sell what Japanese retailers term "English PCs." I've found that the main T-Zone store in Akihabara has the best selection of English-keyboard laptop PCs in Tokyo. But, if you spend the time to look through the small shops lining the back streets, you can find all sorts of imported bargains. The same goes for the alleyways of Osaka's Den Den Town.
I should also point out that many of the larger foreign-based PC makers (at least one of whom can be found advertising in the pages of this magazine) sometimes stock non-Japanese language machines even if they don't widely advertise the fact. Give them a call and ask.
Digital photography
Cheap digital cameras are becoming commonplace among Webpage authors and technology nerds. Several folks, though, have asked what type of digital gear the professionals use.
Through personal experience, and after asking a few colleagues at news agencies, I can safely say the Nikon E-2 series is probably the most well regarded digital camera line among professional photojournalists. However, the price range (between 750,000 and 1,200,000, depending on the model) puts it well beyond most people's reach, including that of many professionals. Within a few years that will change; the days of chemical-based film cameras are numbered.
As for 35-mm film scanners, the one most professionals I spoke with recommend is the Nikon LS-1000. Check out both Nikon products at the company's bilingual Web site (http://www.nikon.co.jp/).
And if you want a chance to play with the Nikon E-2 while in Tokyo, stop by at the first floor (digital corner) of Yodobashi Camera's Shinjuku Main Store. A couple are on display for prospective buyers to try out. A wide selection of less-expensive digital cameras within the price range of mortals is also available.
Electromagnetics redux
Following up on last month's column - in which I mentioned the growing concern over electromagnetic pollution - I've discovered a book that I recommend to anyone interested in the topic. Cross Currents by Robert O. Becker, MD (Jeremy P. Tarcher, Inc., 1990; ISBN 0-87477-536-1), is a comprehensive, non-emotional book that delves into the effects of electromagnetism on the human body - both good and bad. I was most impressed by the "how to" sections that cover protection of yourself in the modern, PC-necessary world.
Cross Currents is a great book to read if you spend most of your time around electronic devices (which is probably all of you reading this column) or just want find something else to worry about.
When he's not in retail showrooms playing with the latest high-tech gadgets (strictly in the line of duty), Thomas Caldwell is ready to search for answers to your questions. You can reach him at caldwell@gol.com.
If you've got a general interest computer-related inquiry, intrepid Query Columnist Thomas Caldwell is ready to explore the jungles of Tokyo for an answer. You can question him at caldwell@gol.com.
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