PDair Aluminum Case for the HP iPAQ hx4700 Series PDA

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Judie Hughes

November 02, 2004

Product Requirements:
HP iPAQ hx4700 / hx4705 PDA

Maybe you actually need the protection that an all-aluminum molded case will provide your PDA. Or maybe you just like the idea that if a wild herd of bulls were to stomp on your PDA while wearing such a case, it would survive. Or perhaps you just like the industrial style that a hard metal case adds to your PDA. Wherever the truth may lie, there is no denying that an all aluminum case will make your PDA virtually indestructible to whatever abuse your daily routine may offer.

PDair has the first such hard case available for the HP iPAQ hx4700. It is offered in the classic book-style, but with the case opening from the left.

When the case is open, the lid will lay at a little more than 180º angle.

The entire interior of the PDair aluminum case is lines in shock-absorbing neoprene.

The iPAQ is inserted in the case by sliding it through the top slot of the case's left side.

Once inserted, the PDA will be secure - unless you turn the open case upside down while shaking it. The right side of the case has a recessed built-in SD slot, so that if you need to carry a spare one will be handy. The recessed design helps ensure that the card will not drag against your iPAQ's screen.

The back of the case has a raised circular area where the PDair belt clip nub can be screwed in to accept the belt clip.

The iPAQ inside the PDair Flip Type Case measures 5.3" tall x 3.4" wide (measured at the widest point of hinge and clasp) x 0.9" thick.

The aluminum case has cutouts so that every notification light, speaker and microphone can be seen, heard or used while the case is closed. There is a cutout on the left side so that voice memos can be made while the case is closed.

The bottom of the case has openings to expose the reset button, sync/charge port, infrared port, battery lock and release.

The top is left open to allow access to the headphone jack, stylus, SD & CF card slots.

It is not possible to use the cradle while the PDA is in this case, but you can easily use a sync/charge cable. The design of the case guarantees that virtually ever corner or angle will be protected in the event of a fall - except for perhaps the corner that holds the stylus.

The PDair aluminum case feels rock solid and adds even more protection to an already tough PDA. If you are concerned about shocks, drops and possible crushed screens, then this case should make you sleep better at night.

PDair cases can be found here.

Price: $34.95

Pros:
Rugged, industrial design
Perfect fit
Excellent corner and screen protection
Can sync/charge with cable while PDA is in case

Cons:
Can't use cradle to sync/charge