A PDA can be a costly investment, so it's a good idea to protect your handheld in every way possible. Even if you've chosen a budget PDA such as Palm's new Z22, a protective covering like the Palm Z22 Air Case makes sure your PDA is safe. This PDA accessory is inexpensive, adding only $15 to the cost of the Z22.

The 3.4-ounce Z22 is small enough to find into a pocket, but if you drop it into a pocket with keys and other items jangling around, you'll end up with a scratched screen. It is also easy to accidentally turn it on and drain the battery.

That's where the Air Case comes in. It fits snugly around the Z22, barely adding to its dimensions while completely covering the body. Made of polycarbonate, the sturdy case feels like it could be dropped from desktop level without your protected PDA feeling any ill effects.

The case completely encapsulates the Z22. A clasp at the bottom of the front cover opens it, and the case swings open upward. You can't fold the cover of this PDA accessory back very far, so it can sometimes get in the way of your usage, and while we didn't stress it to failure, it feels like too much pressure might snap the cover's hinges off.

The Air Case is completely clear, so you can still show off the attractive color scheme of your Z22. Unfortunately, you have to open the case to access the screen and the front buttons, so you won't be able to operate any of the PDA's features while the case is closed.

Palm did add two holes at the top of the case for removing the stylus and for accessing the slot for the USB cable, letting you charge the PDA or sync it with your PC without having to remove the case. In fact, once you have the tight-fitting case on, there's no real reason to remove it. Which is good, because it takes some work to tug this PDA accessory off your PDA.

Stylish and inexpensive, the Palm Z22 Air Case fits well with the design and portability of the Z22 PDA.

Pro: Adds little size or weight to the Z22, good protection.
Con: Have to open case to access screen.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Palm, Inc.
950 West Maude Avenue
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
408-617-7000
http://www.palm.com

Warranty
1 year, limited