Customer Reviews

iConcepts Aluminum Hard Case for Palm M500/505/515

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

This is an excellent aluminum hard case for the Palm m500 series. The pros: the case is molded to the shape of the handheld, it fits snug (like Palm's hardcase for the V series) so there's not any "bulk". It fits easily into a shirt pocket. The case is sturdy, and it has an opening in the back to make inserting expansion cards easy. It also has a soft thin neoprin liner to prevent scratches to the handheld. The flaw: the hinge on the case doesn't have the "stops" like the old Palm V hard case did, so the lid is really loose when it's opened. Overall, this is a good protective hard case. I only wish Palm had manufactured it, as they did for the Palm V. Palm's aluminum hardcase for the m500 series is bigger and bulkier than this one; plus it is wa-a-a-a-a-ay overpriced.

This baby costs 1/3 or less than the other cases. Looks good, fits tight and compact, and is featherweight. Pin slides into Palm side slot so you dont actually take the Palm in and out of the case during use, just swing it open and snap shut again when done - very convenient design. Thin layer of neoprene-like skin inside for extra protection - also a great feature.

My only minor complaint is that the snap-closure takes a bit of concentration to pop open. With a Palm, convenience is essential so this is a little bit annoying.

I would also point out that the Palm m515 itself ships with a leather frontside cover from Palm, that I find to be excellent. Others have complained though that any accidental pressure exterted through this cover turns the Palm on and drains its battery. But my cover is not flimsy at all and try as I might I could not force the Palm to turn on through it. Maybe they improved the cover since those earlier reviews(I bought my m515 in March, 2003).

So, you dont absolutely need to buy ANY case with your Palm m515. But if you expect rough treatment or dusty/dirty conditions, this aluminum case would be good to have as it gives total protection on all sides of the device. I will be using mine on trips for example, while using the leather cover when at home base.

My biggest complaint with this case is that it does not protect the unit from accidential activation. The palm is activated when it recieves a mild jolt in the case. I have completely lost power twice since I purchased it on 8/20. I would not recommend this product for that reason alone.

The case does not account for the power button on the top of the Palm Pilot. Whenever the case is closed the power button is pressed and results in the battery running out every several hours. Complete junk, I can't believe that they actually sell this.

I had been searching for a hard case for my Palm M500 for sometime when I came upon this one. It seemed like the ideal solution - at the ideal price. However the first one I received was heavily scratched - from the plastic retail package it came in I believe. I returned it...., and the second one was also scratched, but not as heavily. Now the anodized coating is coming off. I'll probably return this one .. as well.

The case has the best design I've found by far for a Palm hard case. The neoprene lining is a great touch. It also keeps your Palm's battery from discharging when pressure is applied to the originally supplied case that comes with the Palm. But the coating is a total disappointment.

Mine looks good and works great. I have none of the problems mentioned in the other reviews. I especially like that I can recharge and hotsynch without taking the PDA out of the case. I only wish it had some pockets for cards.

I returned the item after after contact with seller on 11/30. Tracking shows accepted. I have sent two emails requesting a credit as seller said would do. still not response.