How to Make Your Gadget Last
It's fashionable to replace your smartphone or PDA with the latest gadget, but as we all know, not everyone can afford to do so. I'd say changing to a new device every two years sounds reasonable. So how do you make sure your mobile tool will last that long? I'm a clumsy user; every device I've used has been dropped at least once.
Making the Right Choice – I'll always go for units that have the least number of moving parts. With a mobile device, just like anything else, less moving parts means less chance of wear and tear. And what has a greater chance of surviving a fall, the clamshell RAZR, or a T|X? My stomach churns at the thought of Nokia's N93 hitting the floor. But even one-piece units can suffer in a pocket.
Leading a Lonely Life in the Pocket – I keep my keys and coins in the pocket across my gadget. With less companions to jiggle around with, your smartphone or PDA has a better chance of coming out without nicks or scratches. And there's even a way to maximize this possibility further.
Choosing the Right Protection – I've already written about the advantages of "silicon" protection. Aside from providing a small layer of cushioning, they usually cover the entire unit, lessening the amount of dust that can seep into a device's seams, and protects the finish from daily use. The rubber-like feel also means that it won't slip out of my hand.
In Short: There you have it. If you're the clumsy sort like me, avoid devices with moving parts, keep it alone in the pocket, and make sure to get a skin-tight "silicone" case. Feel free to suggest your own tips, or disagree with what I've written, so long as you give a good reason for your opinion.
Sharon
September 7th, 2006 at 8:56 am #
I have a PDAir flip cover for my Clie TH55 and use the supplied leather case for my iRiver IHP140 – both of which are nearing their 2nd birthday now with little sign of wear and tear. Unlike you men though I have a nice roomy handbag to carry around all my gadgets. My GBA Micro does have a rather nice pink silicone cover, as does my PSP (but clear not pink), and I would recommend them. As you say, they are comfy to hold and do the job!
Rico
September 7th, 2006 at 1:32 pm #
Hey Sharon, thanks for sharing your experience with protecting your gadgets.
I see you’re quite into gadgets, and also that you’re young at heart (with all the games and all). And even though you girls can carry your stuff in handbags, I’m still mystified by how well you all seem to take better care of your stuff, not just gadgets.
Tell me, what are your favorite PDA programs? I’m sure a busy mom like you has a few tools to make life easier.
Sharon
September 8th, 2006 at 1:28 pm #
I totally swear by Agendus Pro from Iambic.com. to arrange my life. I’ve tried others, including the excellent Clie Organiser but stuck with Agendus in the end. I like the Splash collection too, especially the SplashID and SplashShopper. As a (mature) student I use Documents to Go & 4.0Student. I also like ThoughtManager for doing projects & keeping tags on stuff I’m organising etc. Unfortunately, with all these gadgets in my handbag I can see my left shoulder being a little lower than my right before I get too much older
Rico
September 9th, 2006 at 10:37 am #
Haha, I think drinking milk will keep your body straight.
Looks like you use your PDA for all the serious stuff, and have fun with your GBA and PSP. I’ve noticed though you haven’t mentioned a phone; what do you use?
Sharon
September 9th, 2006 at 11:26 am #
I do have a few games on my TH55. Bejewelled probably being my favourite. As for my phone, currently it’s a Nokia N80 weighing down my bag. I was happy with the Samsung D600 I had before but the N80 is the easiest phone I’ve had to synch etc. BTW I’m replying from my other Nokia – the 770 internet tablet. Great for e-mails and surfing while my laptop’s off. I hate milk so I’ll have to swap sides to even things out
Rico
September 9th, 2006 at 2:20 pm #
Now I’m even more impressed with your mobile lifestyle!
Yeah, Bejeweled is THE classic mobile game, along with Bookworm, IMHO.
If you’re okay with unsolicited advice, maybe a stylish handbag designed for gadgets might help.
http://joiscee.multiply.com/market/item/39
Sharon
September 9th, 2006 at 2:27 pm #
Oh those bags look great! I’ve been looking for a laptop bag that doesn’t scream ‘I’m a laptop please steal me!’ for ages. I don’t think it would fit mine unfortunately as it’s a widescreen but I’d like it just for college and stuff. I’ll have to see if she ships to the UK and then speak REALLY nicely to my husband…
Rico
September 10th, 2006 at 1:34 am #
Haha, maybe misdirection can help you here.
A friend’s mom bought a new car, then gave her geeky husband a kickass PDA (an iPaq I think) to distract him hehe. Want me to get her e-mail for you or something?
Sharon
September 10th, 2006 at 3:55 am #
Oh I’ll just wear him down slowly. How do you think I got all this stuff in the first place?? Actually he’s pretty good about me spend money on gadgets as I don’t buy expensive clothes and such. We do have an understanding relationship really
Don’t know what we’d be like if we had loads of money though hehe. Can’t wait to finish being a student and try to earn a decent wage. 2 yrs to go.
Rico
September 12th, 2006 at 9:35 am #
Well, you can always give him the classic “If you love me you’d do it” line.