DS
International has been around since the late 80's, serving the computer
input needs of users in the United States, Canada and Europe. DSI
has focused primarily on keyboards (including custom designs) and input
devices, but now is starting to feature new PDA related products in
their catalog. Their newest addition is the iPAQ Holster for all
iPAQ Pocket PC's with an expansion sleeve. The holster provides
added device protection as well as a belt clip for easy transportation
of the iPAQ with an expansion sleeve.
The DSI iPAQ Holster is made of a black plastic shell
similar to that of the iPAQ sleeves. Either side has red rubber grips as
well as an opening for the side button. The top of the case includes the
hook for the belt clip as well as a latch to keep the flip-cover closed.
The bottom as openings for the AC-plug, reset switch (battery lock) and
the connection port. The inside of the top cover is lined with soft felt
as to protect the screen. The top cover has stops so it will stay open
in various positions by itself. The top cover also has a cutout at
the top so the user can see the iPAQ notification lights and the speaker
included at the top of the 3800/3900 series iPAQ's. The flipside of the
holster case is completely open. This is where the expansion pack sticks
out. By having this kind of design, the holster can use any iPAQ
expansion pack, not just a certain size. The belt clip hook and the belt
clip are made so that the holster only can be connected with the holster
to the side. Once it is latched in, it will be held tight until the
release is pressed and the holster is turned an pulled out. Also, the
top of the holster has a small overhang on the hinge so the expansion
sleeves will stay in.
Upon first use of this holster, one noticeable thing is
the added size. Since I most often use my iPAQ naked (or in a
small case), having a sleeve on it adds bulk but also the holster casing
increases the width by over a quarter of an inch. Because of the
increased width, while the device is in the holster is cannot be used on
the sync cradle. (Openings on the bottom allow for a sync cable to
be connected as well as AC power.) Though there is the added size
when I am using it, I find the holster is really a solution for taking
my expansion sleeve with me and this added size is necessary to be able
to carry my device on my belt. The holster will work with all
expansions except the empty sleeve with the flip cover (because the flip
cover could not be opened while the device was in the holster). I
did not have a silver slider or modified sleeve to test with, but these
should work as the conform to the standard sleeve sizing as the new
style sleeves work fine.
One nice feature this holster has that others I have
seen do not, is the opening face so you can use your iPAQ while it is
still in the holster. This leaves less on your belt while you are
using your device and gives you device added protection. DSI has
also made the lid hinge with stops in it so you do not the holster case
will stay open on its own. Another nice feature is that the belt
clip and belt clip hook allow the holster case to turn while on your
belt. This causes the iPAQ to stay vertical while standing and
sitting, and also allows it to shift if there are obstructions (like car
seat belts).
Holsters are a simple and effective way to carry a
Pocket PC especially when they will not fit in your pocket. Because of
the iPAQ's expansion systems, often the iPAQ because bulky but a holster
like this one allows you to easily care the device and its sleeve with
you. Most of the time, I like use my iPAQ without an expansion, but when
I have one on my iPAQ, the DSI holder is a cost effective ($30) solution
that makes transportation and use easy.
Dave's Score - 8.0
This means, this product is a good product,
though has something which could be improved. This product has a
good design and/or application, and is something I might use though there are still areas for improvement. Weigh
the pros and cons before purchasing.
|
Click to enlarge |
