Essential Windows Mobile Accessories

Over 80 experts judged the Pocket PC magazine Best Software Awards 2004. While the awards dealt with third-party software programs that enhance the capabilities of Windows Mobile devices, it turns out that our judges also had strong opinions about hardware accessories. We asked them to describe their "most essential, couldn't live without" accessories. Here are some of their edited comments.

Dell (http://www.dell.com) offers a nice, simple keyboard for its Axim Pocket PCs. I prefer the one that connects to the Axim's sync port, as opposed to the wireless models. Bluetooth and IR keyboards require a battery that can die, and the BT keyboard may not be usable on all airlines.

Pocketpctechs (http://www.pocketpctechs.com) makes two of my favorite accessories. The first, Lil' Sync Retractable Sync-n-Charge, is a USB cable that is small and easy to carry. The second, Lil Sync USB AA Battery Adapter, is a small box that holds 4 AA batteries that can charge my Pocket PC in 30 minutes. You can get up to four charges with a fresh set of batteries.

Lil Sync USB AA Battery Adapter

The Think Outside Stowaway Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard and Travel Mouse (http://www.thinkoutside.com) are an absolute must for those who instant message, e-mail, and write documents. You must have a Bluetooth-equipped Windows Mobile device in order to use them.

The Dell GPS Navigation System (http://www.dell.com) performed flawlessly with all of the Bluetooth Axim devices I've used. This system allows the user to put NAVTEQ maps of specific cities and whole states onto a separate memory card. Need to find a subway station within 20 miles? It has helped me do just that.

The Piel Frama basic black case (http://www.pielframa.com) was my choice for my Dell Axim X50v. This case allows users to convert between clipless and a belt clip for flexibility. The leather is soft, supple, and looks great.

Piel Frama's basic black case

The Dell Presentation Bundle (http://www.dell.com): Because the Axim X50v is a VGA device, a converter is no longer needed—just use the cable that comes with this bundle to connect your X50v to a projector or monitor. The included Westek Clearview software lets you diplay PowerPoint presentations and even transitions display properly. Finally, you can make smooth, legible notations on top of a presentation. This is an outstanding presentation tool.

The iTECH Virtual Keyboard (http://www.virtual-laser-keyboard.com) is fast becoming one of my most favorite solutions. Its mobility, ease of use, and the fact that I can use it at night in a dark room has made it one of my "must haves."

Variety of cases: I have become partial to the lightweight, high-quality leather casesfrom Casesonline (http://www.casesonline.com). However, I also use a ruggedized case from RhinoSkin (http://www.rhinoskin.com) when I'm out hiking along the shores of Maine. It has proved to be a lightweight case offering good protection for my iPAQ. Finally, I have yet another case for when I'm driving and using my GPS. My FlexiSkin from BoxWave (http://www.boxwave.com) is durable and soft to the touch. And because it can stretch, I am able to use it with or without my extended battery.