Ask the Experts: What's Your Favorite Accessory?

Our Board of Experts was responsible for selecting and evaluating the nominees, finalists, and winners of Smartphone and Pocket PC magazines Best Software Awards 2006. Although they did not evaluate hardware, we asked them to tell us about their favorite accessory. A few GPS-related solutions are mentioned in this article, but a separate article describes the top GPS solutions available for Windows Mobile devices. For the sake of brevity, we've selected a single comment for each program mentioned and have edited the comments for clarity.

Accessories

(Includes adapters, cases, styluses, mounts, etc.)

BoxWave ClearTouch screen protector

http://www.boxwave.com

ClearTouch is a good screen protector that's frustrating to put on, but lasts a long time. I haven't replaced my screen protector for several months, and it doesn't leave behind a sticky residue. It's a lifesaver.

http://www.aximsite.com

BoxWave miniSync

http://www.boxwave.com

miniSync is a retractable sync/charge cable that is compact and tough.

http://www.pocketpcaddict.com

Boxwave Armor Case

http://www.boxwave.com

This is a well-made and inexpensive aluminum case.

http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com

Boxwave VersaCharger Pro

http://www.boxwave.com

VersaCharger is a superb addition to any charging kit. It can be plugged into a standard wall outlet or your vehicles cigarette lighter to provide power to your device through a Boxwave miniSync or DirectSync cable. Its easy to carry around and provides power in a pinch.

http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com

JAVOedge Leather Case

http://www.javoedge.com

I use the JAVOedge case (model PLEA-91137-C01B01), which is black and has a detachable belt clip. The case is very well constructed and has a great design. The leather and stitching are well executed and the case can hold extra SD and credit cards. The design is compact and sturdy.

http://www.mobilegadgetnews.com

Krusell PDA cases with CarHolder and BikeHolder kits

http://www.krusell.se/where2buy.php

Krusells mounting accessories (for belt, car, bike, etc.) make their cases exceptionally useful. When you buy a new PDA, all you need to do is get a new Krusell case—the mounting accessories are interchangeable.

http://www.pocketpc-muenchen.de

Martin Fields Screen Protector

http://www.martinfields.com

Martin Fields has great customer service. Their screen protectors are well made, well fitted, and provide great protection.

http://www.vijay555.com

Proporta Aluminum-Leather Case

http://www.proporta.com

The Proporta aluminum leather cases features a metal plate in the front so the case to protect the PDA screen from damage. The leather is high quality and the price very reasonable.