Windows Phone Thoughts: HP iPAQ 4150 Series Case Round-Up

Covertec Aluminium Case
For the ultimate in protection, there really is only one stop - the metal case made by Covertec, among others; the same case can be found under the Proporta, Innopocket, Piel Frama and Rhinoskin brands. Made from precision moulded aluminium, this is one case that will offer the same perfect fit forever provided you don’t subject it to dent inducing heavy knocks. With the swing door closed, I’m confident this case will keep your device safe from all but the severest of treatment. You have easy access to all parts of the device and accessing the recessed record button is easier than the 1900 series. The inclusion of a soft reset hole is a plus point as well over previous models. The biggest issue I have seen with this case are the complaints of the metal door opening to the right due to the record button access on the left. Many people find this a hindrance when actually using the device in hand. In my experience you quickly adjust to working with this case and it helps to keep the size of the case down as opposed to the alternative option of a doubled-hinged door that opens at the top of the device. This case looks attractive with its silvery finish although small ridges are required to aid grip – something of a necessity due to the smooth, hard surface. The small SD card holder on the inside of the door adds to the value. The protection to price ratio is second to none in this company.


Figure 7: The Aluminium case looks every bit the fortress for your Pocket PC.


Figure 8: Neoprene lining offers internal protection.

This case can be bought from the Covertec Web site for £27.97 / $34.95.

Vaja Leather Case
Vaja Cases are highly regarded in the community and this case just exemplifies why with a high quality fit and finish in excellent leather. This case is one of the smallest leather flips beaten only by the Sena in terms of size. All holes match up perfectly and only the microphone is hidden away without access. The flip has one credit sized pocket and two of the SD variety. Overall protection is very good, although like the Sena, the bottom corners are exposed. If you are a Vaja fan you will love this case and I would recommend it to anyone. The clip closure, however, does mean this case is larger than it could be and a magnetic closure option would be desirable. A vast choice of colour and styling combinations are on offer as well as the usual with or without belt clip.


Figure 9: That Vaja badge is a sign of a quality case.


Figure 10: The fit is exactly what you would hope for.

This case can be bought from the Vaja Web site starting at $54.90.

Piel Frama Leather Case
If anyone out there has owned a leather case from Piel Frama before, you will know just how luxurious these cases feel. Sumptuous is not a word I would often associate with a PDA case but it’s the perfect term to describe the quality of leather used. Workmanship, as to be expected, is top notch with everything stitched together perfectly to provide an excellent fit. The protection on offer is very good too with the soft padded leather sure to cushion the majority of knocks. The downside to this, however, is a case that is slightly larger than some of the others on display here. Access is good with a stud flip that closes on the rear, however, the lack of a soft reset hole upsets things a little. Piel Frama does, however, employ a clever belt clip system that can be completely removed when not in use and doesn’t provide any form of obstacle. Three large pockets and two smaller SD slots provide the storage options on the inside of the flip. The understated looks can’t hide the fact that this is a luxury case and if this is something you look for in your case, Piel Frama is most definitely worth a look. The Piel Frama case comes in a choice of colour and hide combinations.


Figure 11: With no logo on show you can still tell it is made by Piel Frama.


Figure 12: Fine handmade craftmanship all-round.

This case can be bought from the Piel Frama Web site for 60 Euros.