Thanks very very much for the detailed report!  Your issues with multitasking would be a showstopper for me; I'm very glad that Linux is quite up to the task on the PocketPC. 

My main concern now is finding a keyboard that actually allows me to turn the unit sideways, and still provides decent support. I hate typing in portrait mode, but the interfaces are all hard-wired and unadaptable.

I may just bite the bullet and order the XT from Fellowes, and then see if there's an extender cable.  It's week one proper of school now, so I need to be up to speed and pronto.