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16-Aug-2005
Pros: Lightweight, not too bulky.
Cons: No access to USB port or charger, stylus, headphone jack, IR port, or SD port.
The Bottom Line: Find something else instead.
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RATING DETAILS
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Full Review
The case is billed as being for the E or E2 handhelds. The size difference between the two devices is insignificant, not enough to affect the fit my E2. Having said that, I found there to be several shortcomings.
First and foremost, when the HotSync (and/or charge) cable is plugged in, the E2 will not sit within the case. You actually need to pivot the E2 halfway open just to plug the cable in, all the while holding on to the top of the E2, not the top of the case, to make sure you don't remove the E2 from the case as you force the cable into it.
You need to follow the same process of swinging the E2 halfway open, like loose pages in a book, to get at the stylus or Power button. Why not be able to access these items immediately while leaving the E2 lying flat against the back of the case? Better yet, these two items should be accessible without opening the case at all, as should the headphone jack. As it stands, you can't use the headphone jack with the case closed. You can't even use it with the case open and the E2 resting comfortable against the back of the case. You need to prop it halfway open in an awkward position to use the headphone jack. And then, the weight of the E2 is taken up by the jack... not ideal.
Finally, the memory card is likewise inaccessible without swinging the E2 to the case's common "halfway open" position. I saved this for last because it's not that big of a negative in my mind. For the frequency I'll be changing out my memory card, I don't need it to be accessible as readily as the other features. Regardless, it's clear the designers gave little thought, if any, to how the users will interact with this product.
On the positive side, the cover opens 180 degrees and sits under the back side of the case, meaning if you want to place it on a desk or table, it takes up the same footprint open or closed, which is an OK feature.
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