PDA screen cover question

[lobe]

I just got an iPAQ pocket pc. I've never used any kind of pda previously. I was wondering if I should get those screen covers and use those? I don't want to put mine in a case-want to just have it in my pocket. I don't want the weight of a case, or the size. But I don't want the screen to get all scratched up either. Do those covers work? Are they worth it? Do they damage the screen at all with adhesive?

Thanks in advance.

 

[CJP]

Originally posted by: lobe
I just got an iPAQ pocket pc. I've never used any kind of pda previously. I was wondering if I should get those screen covers and use those? I don't want to put mine in a case-want to just have it in my pocket. I don't want the weight of a case, or the size. But I don't want the screen to get all scratched up either. Do those covers work? Are they worth it? Do they damage the screen at all with adhesive?

Thanks in advance.

I've just put a Brando screen protector on my Ipaq 5550 and I'm very happy with it. Avoid the cheap protectors you can get at your local shop like Fellowes or Belkin. They don't last long, are hard to apply (bubbles) and I've read alot of people who don't like the feel of writing on them. I think you'd be happy with any of the quality protectors like, Brando or Writeshields (adhesive), or NuShields(fit under the case). I went with adhesive because I read a person who wrote that if you get any grit under say the NuShield and the protector moves around the grit will grind into your screen and scratch it. This may be untrue and uncommon but that's what I read. Also I haven't read anyone complain of quality adhesive protectors leaving adhesive when they're removed. That's something the cheap one's do, probably partly because you have to replace them every month. The Writeshields get the best reviews but the Brando is more affordable and you can buy it in a package of one (you've got to buy 3 of the writeshields at once and it's expensive). Also, you get a cleaning kit with the Writeshields that I personally didn't want to pay extra for. People say that a Writeshield or Brando can last for half a year or more. I don't write, I mostly just tap on my screen, so I'm hoping that my Brando will last the life of my Ipaq. I'm more worried of something other than my stylus scratching the screen and that's my main reason for having the protector (I spent so much on this Ipaq I'd be furious with myself if it got scratched). My protector does reduce the brilliance of the screen a bit but it's nothng that concerns me. You can get the Writeshields at Pocket Pc Techs website or the Brando at Executive PDA and there are other quality protectors that I can't think of the names of right now too.

Some advice, apply your protector in a steamed washroom to get the dust out of the air. Also, apply the protector at the same time as you're peeling the protective skin off of the adhesive side of the protector and do all this quickly to minimise dust. I fumbled mine a bit so I got some dusk between the protector and screen at the top but fortunately it's not too bad. The Brando is washable so I could remove, wash, and reapply it but I figure it could be worse the second time. If you get a big dust particle on the adhesive side use scotch tape to remove it.

Hope that helps,

Chris

 

[Spoooon]

I have Fellowes brand for my Palm V. I never had any problems with getting dust or bubbles underneath the overlay. The package says to replace it once a month, but I've only replaced it twice in a year or so. I like the feel of it when writing, it's slightly textured.

 

[ericboo]

There is info about great screen protectors over at PocketPCPassion in the forums.

 

[lobe]

Thank you so much, all of you, for responding. I REALLY appreciate it. I have never used a pda previously, and I agree, I would hate to scratch the screen and then look at it daily and kick myself every time. I'll give one of them a try.

 

[JackHawksmoor]

Yeah, I've been using Fellowes WriteRights for years and have no complaints. They can be a little tricky to put on, but who cares? Just get it right the next time you change it.

 

[Foghorn]

I agree, that Fellowes stuff is a bastard to apply, especially on my cheapie lil screen zire.

 

[lobe]

I have had almost a month now to try out the write shield screen covers and have been very happy with them. Actually it. It seems like each cover is going to last a substantial amount of time. So although they are expensive to purchase initially, they will likely be a very good value over the long haul.

Thanks for the tip on them.

 

[bastula]

I've been using the Boxwave Cleartouch on my Toshiba E755. Works like a charm and even reduces glare. Review and Link.