Brando Workshop Tapwave Zodiac Case

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Judie Hughes

April 20, 2004

Product Requirements:
Tapwave Zodiac1 or 2

Ever since I started using a Tapwave Zodiac2, I have wanted a case that would protect and enhance its looks. Perhaps due to the Zodiac's curvy shape, landscape orientation, odd button placement or maybe because this PDA isn't widely available in stores, there just haven't been a lot of manufacturers rushing to create anything. I think it really is a shame because the Zodiac has turned into one of the most dependable workhorses I have ever owned. I think that the Zodiac deserves better protection than the cheesy screen cover with which it ships.

Brando Workshop, a company that can almost always be counted upon to introduce accessories for even the most underappreciated  PDAs, has what I believe may be the only  play-through Tapwave Zodiac Case currently available on the market.

Comprised of a very finely grained, smooth black leather similar to Napa, the Brando case has evenly spaced white stitching for a nice contrasting visual effect. There is no branding on the exterior, in fact the overall effect is quite subdued and businesslike. Not a bad way to cover what is still considered by many to be a primarily a gamer's PDA!

The case is kept securely closed with a magnetic snap tab.

While the empty case may cause you to recall a traditional book-style, the Brando is actually more like a flip-style due to the landscape orientation of the PDA. With that in mind, here is how the Zodiac is presented when in the case...

The lid portion is also comprised of smooth black leather with contrasting white stitching. It feels like it has been reinforced with a sheet of plastic sandwiched between the layers of leather. There are two pockets for ID or credit cards, as well as two recessed slots for holding SD cards. A deep slash pocket runs the length of the organizer area. The Brando logo is tastefully embossed between the sets of pockets.

If you are going to use these pockets, then it's probably a good idea to also use the included removable ID card pocket. This pocket is made of a soft waffle-textured nylon in black, also with contrasting white stitching.

   

When this ID pocket is installed, chances of the Zodiac's screen being scratched by contents of the wallet are virtually nil. If you are someone that can get by with only carrying a few ID and credit cards along with a small amount of bills, then you might actually be able to use the Brando case as a replacement wallet.

The bottom portion of the case is lined in a soft velvet-like material. It also appears to be reinforced with a sheet of plastic between the layers of leather and velvet. This should protect the PDA from any scratches and add as an additional shock buffer. The holster is made of layers of stiff black leather, once again with contrasting white stitching.

In order to insert the Zodiac into the holster, the stock screen cover will need to be removed. Once the PDA is in place, it is immediately evident that all buttons, ports, joystick, and slots are still easily accessible. Even the inconveniently placed stylus becomes handy due to the way that the case flaps back to expose it.

Because of the Zodiac's curves and port / button positioning, it would most likely be impossible to cover all of the exposed corners and still have such a functional case. With that in mind, the user will just have to guard against dropping the PDA as the Brando will not provide corner protection. Of course, a naked PDA is even less protected, so don't use that as an argument not to get this case.

       

Since the Tapwave does not ship with a cradle, it will probably not matter to many that the Zodiac has to be removed to sync or charge. If you are using just the cable that shipped with the PDA then you will still be able to conveniently do so.

The main con I can see concerns the considerable thickness that is added when this case is used. Without the case, the Tapwave measures 5.6" long x 3.3" wide (at widest point) x 0.5" thick. With the Brando case including the card holder/screen protector, the numbers jump to 5.8" long x 3.4" wide (at widest point) x 1.4" thick (on snap). If you are trying to keep this PDA in your pocket, then this may be a deal-breaker.

Exposed corners and added thickness aside, the Brando is an excellent case that offers good looks and excellent quality. It is still quite easy to use the Tapwave as a gaming device while it is in the case, and to me, that says a lot about the planning that went into its making. If you have been looking for a protective case that can also double as a light day wallet, then you should give the Brando a try.

Price: $32

Pros:
Allows access to every button and port
Very well made with attractive design
Can serve as a mini-wallet
Excellent screen protection
Allows syncing/charging with Tapwave cable

Cons:
Adds considerable thickness to Zodiac
Corners are not protected in case of drop
Will not work with Tapwave cradle