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aikidoka
2nd March 2004, 12:18 AM
Appearance

Among the several leather cases I have seen, the elegance and simplicity of this leather case impressed me the most. It is the most refined seductress of them all. It resembles an ordinary paper diary but opens up to reveal an efficient machine that does more. This case enhances the elegance of the m10x handheld, raising it away from the "techno" image portrayed by this current handheld series.



Design

Made of leather, this case flip-opens to the side like a mini paper organiser. The flip cover has three top-loaded creditcard-sized pockets and two side-loaded pockets big enough for half-folded cash. The case bears striking resemblance to the InnoPocket Splendid Case in many aspects. The marginal differences lie in the material used, the colour of the cases, and the metallic-button strap and an extra side-pocket for this leather case. Like the InnoPocket Splendid case, this leather case secures the m10x handheld with Velcro fastener.

The flip is held closed by a metal-button commonly found on ladies' handbags and umbrellas. It is durable for repeated fastening and unfastening and it doesn't make as much noise as Velcro fasteners.



Ease of use

The case is held elegantly closed by an attaching strap (see picture). When using this case, you do not need the m10x screen cover anymore. The leather cover provides enough protection for your screen.

Black does wonders to a lady's figure, and it certainly does the same magic here. Though the case and handheld measures 2.5cm thick, it certainly doesn't appear so thick.

Ease of placement

A piece of Velcro fastener has to be pasted onto the back of the handheld. This will "stick" the handheld to the case and prevent the handheld from falling out of the case. Thankfully, it's the "hairy face" of the Velcro union that is stuck to the back of the handheld, and not the "spiky face". Thus handling the handheld without the case causes no discomfort.

Stylus and IR

The IR port is full exposed while in the case. Stylus removal might be a little problem. m10x handhelds have stylus silos at the back of the casing and not the side (like the Palm V series). You'll have to bend the casing a little to reach it. However, the leather case is flexible enough even for a thick thumb to reach for the stylus.

HotSync

Like the IR port, the Hotsync port is not covered and this allows Hotsyncing while in case, as long as you are using a cable. Cradle Hotsyncs require you to remove the handheld first. Protection/Durability

The case is made of high-quality leather. The case offers moderate but sufficient protection. It should last for a few years of daily handling. The treads used to sew the edges are strong and do not break easily like some cheap imitation wallets. The casing does not offer drop or crash protection. But it enough to protect the handheld from harsh conditions in your school bags and handbags.



Size

Size is a little of concern here. No matter how thin the casing is, admit it: the m10x is already over-sized. The casing will fit into any box that measure 12.5cm length, 8.5cm breath, and 2.5cm deep.

Cost

SGD$49 from Palm Authorised Distributors

Conclusion

This is by far the most elegant m10x case I've seen. The simplicity and use of black leather gives the handheld an elegant look.

Who would want to buy:



those that have gone tired of the original m10x flip cover
those who wants a casing with card holders
People who carry their Palms in their hands, or in their bags
Who wouldn't want to buy:


Users who prefer a case that fits the pocket
Users who think that the original m10x flip cover is enough
Users who demand that m10x is absolutely protected against drop and crash
Users who don't like bulky covers
Likes:


Seductively black to visually "hide" the thick perception of the case
Simple and elegant
Hotsync and IR while in case
Soft leather that doesn't harm other things in the bag
Dislikes:


No coins compartment
No keys compartment
Available at
http://store.palm.com (http://www.innopocket.com/)


Rating:



Reviewed by Ng Pei Sin (psng7@singnet.com.sg)
1 July, 2001