Compaq sponsors Linux contest

Compaq Computer has launched a contest designed to stimulate developer interest in the Linux operating system for handheld computers. Entrants are to design applications for Linux-capable handhelds, with five winners to receive a Compaq iPaq PDA (personal digital assistant). Other prizes include a laptop or workstation. Most handhelds currently use the Palm OS or Microsoft's Windows CE, with Compaq the biggest WinCE-based OEM (original equipment manufacturer). Some PDAs, such as Yopy, also run Linux. Compaq itself said it has one European OEM that sells Linux preloaded on the iPaq. Compaq will not comment on whether it plans to sell iPaq itself with Linux preloaded. Staff writer Matthew Broersma reported from London.