Piel Frama Zaurus Case Review

Product Requirements:
Device:
Sharp Zaurus SL-5500

Sharp Zaurus users can smile as
they now have another case to choose from for their PDA.
Piel Frama has recently added this
leather case to their current product line. Available in Black, Tan and a Black
/ Tan combo, this is a quality case made of fine grained cow skin.

To allow use of the 5500’s unique slide out keyboard, the Zaurus is held in
this case with a leather holster. You insert the PDA from the bottom of the
holster, sliding it forward till the bottom part of the PDA slips into a leather
tray. Once inserted, the PDA is held quite securely. Even with vigorous shaking,
I wasn’t afraid that the Zaurus would slip out of the case accidentally.

While inserted, you have access to all features of the PDA except the reset
switch. One large cutout allows easy screen usage, while two rectangular cutouts
on the left side allow you to access the IR port and SD card slot.

The leather tray has a cutout for the serial port and AC adapter. The serial
port cutout is convenient if you have a sync cable for the PDA as you will need
to remove the PDA from the case if you want to sync with the cradle.

When you want to use the keyboard, it easily slides open for unobstructed
use.

The top of the PDA is equally accessible while in the case. When the cover is
open, you can easily insert and remove CF cards and use the stereo earphone
jack. When the cover is closed, 2 cutouts allow you to continue to use both the
CF and earphone features. The CF cutout in the cover is a nice addition for
people that use oversized CF cards such as modems. You can leave the card in the
slot and still close the cover on the case.

The inside of the cover has one large card slot and 2 SD card slots. It is
nice to see that Piel Frama located the slots in such a position as to not come
in contact with the display when the cover is snapped closed. The cover is
padded and is stiff enough to protect the display from everyday bumps and
knocks.

The exterior of the case has the Zaurus logo embossed on the front, and a
plastic belt clip stud is located on the back. I was surprised that the belt
clip matched the color of the case perfectly! However, it would be nice if you
could buy these cases without a belt clip.

The materials and construction of this case are all of high quality. It is
made very well and would look fine in both a business and casual setting.
Although this case does add some bulk to the Zaurus, it also will do a good job
of protecting the PDA from accidental drops. If you are looking for a belt case
for your Zaurus, take a closer look at this one.

Price: 65 € ($63.67) UPS Express shipping included

Pros:
CF cutout in cover for oversized CF cards

Cons:
All cases come with a belt clip
Must remove from case to sync with cradle
Must remove from case to reset