Darius Wey
03-25-2005, 07:00 PM
<img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/wey-iporterxsd-00.gif" /><br /><br /><b>Product Category:</b> Memory Card Case<br /><b>Manufacturer:</b> <a href="http://www.eporterinc.com/">ePorter Inc.</a><br /><b>Where to Buy:</b> <a href="http://www.eporterinc.com/">ePorter Inc.</a><br /><b>Price:</b> $9.95 - 2 Pack.<br /><b>System Requirements:</b> Compatible memory cards.<br /><br /><b>Pros:</b><li>Durable, anti-static plastic;<br /><li>Simple book-style flip design;<br /><li>Compatible with different types of memory cards;<br /><li>Key ring loop.<b>Cons:</b><ul><li>Incompatible with CompactFlash.</ul><b>Summary:</b><br />Earlier in the year, I made a <a href="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=36817">news post</a> on ePorter's range of memory card cases. Recently, I was given the opportunity to have a look at the iPorter xSD myself. But the question is, was I impressed?<br /><br />Read on for the full review!<!><br /><PAGEBREAK><br /><span><b>So, What Are They Good For?</b></span><br />I own a plethora of memory cards and it was a recipe for disaster - that is, until the iPorter xSD was introduced to me. Each case holds a maximum of three memory cards (SD, MMC, MMC-RS, miniSD, MS Duo, and xD), but unlike most cases, you aren't limited to only one type of card. If you wanted to store them in different combinations (e.g. one SD, one xD and one MS Duo), you can!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/wey-iporterxsd-01.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 1: Front-on view of an aqua iPorter xSD.</i><br /><br /><span><b>Solid As A Rock!</b></span><br />If I told you that the iPorter xSD was made of plastic, you would probably think it wasn't very durable. Think again! These cases are lightweight and as solid as a rock - this means extra protection for your precious memory cards. The plastic has an anti-static additive which helps reduce any static and dust build-up inside and outside the cases. The case itself is kept closed by a clasp located on the side, and once opened, it's easy to see that the case has a smart book-style design. When you first receive the case, you may notice that it requires a little extra effort to bend the card holders on the inside. This is normal, since the added stiffness is owed to the durable properties of the plastic. Some have said that the case may be a little thick. However, if you take into account the fact that it holds three memory cards, this rant can be easily disregarded. The dimensions of the iPorter xSD are 45mm(H) x 36mm(L) x 13mm(W), which still makes it very pocket-sized.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/wey-iporterxsd-02.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 2: An open iPorter xSD.</i><br /><br />Each memory card is kept in place by a smart slide-in mechanism. The plastic projection on each holder helps secure the memory cards. The case also features a key ring loop which allows you to attach it to your keys or even your jacket zipper. In Figure 3, you can see one of the cases attached to one of my computer keys.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/wey-iporterxsd-03.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 3: A copper and aqua iPorter xSD side-by-side.</i><br /><br /><PAGEBREAK><br /><span><b>Personalize Your Case!</b></span><br />ePorter Inc. allows you to print your own logo and information on the product. Since my review samples were only prototypes, they don't have any logos printed on them. However, if you wanted the feature, all you would have to do is let ePorter Inc. know when you order. Simple! The cases are also available in three main colours - copper, silver, and aqua. You can choose which colours you want when you order the iPorter xSD 2-pack for $9.95.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/wey-iporterxsd-04.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 4: Two cases - one open, one closed.</i><br /><br /><span><b>Conclusions</b></span><br />With these lightweight cases, I no longer have to worry about losing any of my memory cards. Perhaps one point worth noting is the fact that it does not hold CompactFlash cards, and for some Pocket PC users, this may be a negative feature of the case. However, by not supporting CompactFlash, the iPorter xSD is kept small in size, so in reality, there is the compromise. That aside, it was a joy being able to review these cases. This affordable solution is definitely a worthy companion for your Pocket PC, and should appeal to many of you who own a truckload of memory cards.