Well – here is the issue:
I am posting my mini review hoping it will help some people here. If anyone has a similar (or non similar) case for the hx4700 please post it under this thread so we may get a "mini database for hx4700 cases” and this will probably help us choose what is best for our iPaq and style
I have my nice hx4700 – I need to protect it. I’m a sportsman and I like to have my iPaq all the time so I need the best protection available.
So I got me a nice metal case (Innopocket Metal Deluxe Case – cx-0310) and here are my findings (according to importance from my point of view).
The case:
Innopocket Metal Deluxe Case - CX-0310
Protection: this is tuff stuff, all aluminum, can absorb a nice hit from that bench you crashed into as you chased your Pit Bull chasing a cat. WORKED FOR ME!
Weight: you cannot feel it – believe me it is light (according to manufacturer it’s 76 gr) but again, I’m a big guy, wouldn’t feel it even if it was that weighty. The only exposed part is 70% of the top (SD, CF, On/Off, stylus and earphones), and in the synchronizing link.
Access to function: when the case is closed you can access all functions BUT to the screen and the touch pad and the navigation buttons (calendar, contact etc).
Apply and un-apply: sticking the PDA in is just as easy as getting it out – you will feel that its in and going to stay in even if the unit is open.
Grip and size: when the unit is closed it feels big – I mean you can feel it very well in hand – it makes the hx4700 feels bigger. When it’s open it is a bit uncomfortable to hold. The door opens and makes a 180 degree angle, so you don’t have a good grip of the unit because the tips of your fingers will not be able to hold the left side of the unit like when the unit is free without the case (imagine you have big fingers like mine). Furthermore, if you have a big hand like mine you will have a hard time writing because your right hand will always keep bumping in that damn door part.
Fingerprint and stuff: easy to clean, no fingerprint will be shown and the unit will always shine.
Extras: 2 SD slots, you can store 2 SDs in the case (see picture in provided link down) – GREAT!
Special usage notes:
- You cannot synchronize using the cradle when the unit is in the case.
- You can record notes/lectures or whatever when the case is closed, the recording quality and range is the same.
- There is full access to storage cards when case is closed, but it’s just a bit hard to get that SD card when you have big fingers, small fingers will love it.
- You can see the LEDs and hear alarms just the same – Quality the same.
- It seems that the WiFi range and quality is not affected buy the case – haven’t tried with Bluetooth, but it’s probably the same (antenna is not covered by the case).
- It has a nice belt clip and belt post but the unit with the case is just too heavy for the belt and too big.
- Rubber side grips are nice to have.
Pros:
Protection, weight, access to functions and storage cards, ease of applying, no affect or WiFi range, always clean, SD X2 storage, alarms and microphone are usable and not affected.
Cons:
CAN’T synchronize using cradle, hard to grip when open and makes writing harder, color (I like black or darker colors better for my hx4700).
I would give it 7 out of 10 Bullets in »HunTeR«'s Shooting Range
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