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Case TechWorks
January 29, 2002
Thumboard Case— while this is a somewhat bulky solution overall, I have to hand it to the CaseTechworks folks— they really do know how to solve a problem. I usually just toss my Thumboard in my bag when I’m not using it, but that means that I don’t use it all that much because it’s a hassle to fish out. With this new case I’m much more likely to use it, because it keeps everything in one place. The Thumboard itself is held in place by a yoke with elastic sides and a leather front that perfectly fits the keyboard. The m505 then slides into the Thumboard and you can type away with everything in the case. When you’re done, just fold the flap over and secure it with the snap on the back of the case. The flap is rigid enough to provide some screen protection, and it also has a guide that sits on top of the m505 that makes up for the extra thickness of the Thumboard and prevents the handheld from shifting or potentially falling out of the case. While the overall combo won’t win any competitions for slenderness, it is an excellent solution to the problem of how to carry the m505 with the Seiko Thumboard. I can’t show you any pictures yet— some of the finer details of the case’s design have yet to be finalized, and pricing has not yet been set. But once this case is available you’ll definitely want to take a close look at it if you have a Thumboard and have been trying to figure out how to carry it with your Palm.
SlinG4 Laptop Case— this one is the ideal solution for someone who would like to carry their laptop in a stylish, ergonomic manner. Instead of a bulky computer case like the ones you see everywhere these days, the SlinG4 is a monostrap backpack that holds your laptop in the vertical position. Be forewared though— it’s made for a fairly small, slim laptop. My T22 was a pretty tight fit, but it was OK. Inside you’ll find two accessory pockets in addition to the laptop pouch, and outside there’s a slip pocket for your keys or cell phone and another pocket on the side for a water bottle or slim umbrella. The best part about this case is how much easier it is to carry your laptop. It’s funny how our modern four to seven pound computers can get so heavy as we’re carrying them from one meeting to another, and most cases aren’t all that ergonomically friendly. But put your laptop in the SlinG4 and put the non-slip strap over your shoulder and you’ll feel an immediate difference. The physical detailing and materials are top-notch, from the zippers to the reinforced corners. You can get one for yourself for $69.95 directly from the company.
You might also want to take a look at the Case TechWorks web site, as they also make custom carrying cases for the Sony Clie, the RIM Blackberry, HandSpring Visors, and the Compaq iPAQ. While I haven’t reviewed all of their cases personally, the ones I have seen are of uniformly good quality and workmanship. Be sure to check out the clearance center while you’re there, as there are several excellent closeout offers. I picked up one of their Utility PDA cases and absolutely love it.
