microSD to MS Pro Duo Adapter
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from ConsoleSource
Price: $12.99


Overview : This adapter converts Micro SD / Micro SDHC / T-Flash into a MS Pro Duo and to be used with the growing number of MS Pro Duo compatible devices such as Sony PSP, PDAs, digital cameras and cellphones.

Features :

• Support to 1GB MicroSD to 8GB MicroSDHC
• Plug-N-Play

Quality/Usability : With different electronics available comes different media storage. Like everyone, you probably bought a memory stick for a device and the device either broke, got something new or is no longer being used. So what are you to do with those memory sticks? You either let it sit on your shelf and collect dust, try and sell it or reuse it with the help of an adapter.

Sony has their own like of memory sticks and their highly popular sticks right now are the Pro Duo. But the prices are fairly high compared to other cards on the market. A 4GB MS Pro Duo can cost as much as $60. It use to cost over $300 when it was first released and depending on brand. Currently, the 8GB costs just as much as the 4GB when it first released. Within a couple of months, these prices will drop dramatically to a more reasonable price but it would still be expensive.

SD cards are also a very popular and highly used format. With technology advancing, so are the sizes of memory sticks. The TransFlash also known as microSD/microSDHC (SDHC is higher capacity) which usually comes with an SD adapter is proof. microSD's are used in cellphones, PDAs and camera's with the use of the adapter. But the price is what makes it very affordable and highly used in electronics. A 1GB microSD can be purchased for $10 or even FREE after rebate.

Manufacturers are always looking of ways to provide a solution on using other memory cards in other devices. The microSD to MS Pro Duo Adapter is similar to that of the Kingmax microSd to Pro Duo Adapter.

This review was tested with both a normal 1GB microSD card as well as a 4GB microSDHC card. Both cards fit flush inside the adapter. The adapter is the same exact size as a SanDisk or Sony brand Pro Duo. During our tests, we did not notice any slow down during reading and writing to the microSD with the Pro Duo adapter.

Conclusion : Overall, the microSD to MS Pro Duo Adapter worked just as it should. If you have extra microSD's laying around or dont want to pay for the high priced Pro Duo cards, you might want to check this out. However, the quality of the adapter is cheap. The plastic is very lightweight and thin compared to SanDisk or Sony brand Pro Duos.

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Extreme-Mods Disc Repair Service
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from Extreme-Mods
Price: $5.99 per disc + shipping costs (ships internationally)


Overview : Send us your scratched or damaged Xbox, Xbox 360, Wii, Playstation 2 (PS2), Playstation 3 (PS3), Gamecube, CD, DVD, HD-DVD, BluRay, PC discs and have them professionally resurfaced and promptly returned to you. Using specialized machine(s) we are able to get great results that remove all scratches and restores the disc to "like new" condition.

Notice: We do not guarantee ALL discs will be repairable but we will do our best to repair it to its original playing condition. We are not responsible for discs lost in the mail or in transit.

Attention Xbox 360 Users: If you accidentally scratched a game disc in your console like the disc pictured above, we are here to help! This is scratch ring is easily removed with our special machine(s) and techniques. We will restore your disc to like new condition so you can enjoy playing it again.

Quality/Usability : So I know we all had a bunch of scratched disc whether it be from poor handling of the disc, letting a sibling, child, pet damage it or from your player. Upon trying to play the disc, it was badly scratched that we had to either try and repair it ourselves with a disc repairer, have a store try and repair it or throw it away.


Well, I had Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 for the Xbox 360. Unfortunately, someone sent this to me from a trade. Upon looking at it, I was greatly disappointed at the condition. I thought it would still work despite the condition and the game would not read or load. I tried taking the disc to many stores such as GameCrazy, EB/GameStop, Blockbuster, FYE and many other retail stores that deals with videogame, movies and music. None would repair my disc. They would only repair lightly scratched discs but as you can see by the image above.

I noticed that Extreme-Mods provided a service on repairing discs. Although they state that do not guarantee that all discs are repairable, I was willing to give it a shot. I have nothing else to lose. No other stores would take it and the disc is already useless. I have nothing to lose.

Cost of repair is $5.99 per disc. Shipping starts at $3.38 for First Class. Depending on how many discs you send and how heavy the package is, price of shipping will vary. I sent the disc with a blank DVD case and it costs around $2.00 via First Class, give or take a couple of cents (depending on location). If you add any extra services such as tracking or insurance and what shipping method, it will cost more. So in total, it will cost almost $12 just to ship, have it done and shipped back to you.

Having shipped the package on a Monday via First Class, it arrived within a couple of days. Extreme-Mods had the item shipped back 2-3 days after receiving it. I received the package a couple days later. So in total, from shipping to receiving, it took almost 2 weeks. Again, depending on shipping method you choose, it could be sooner.


As you can see from the picture, the ring scratch is no longer visible. But upon looking at it very very and I mean, very closely, I can still see a little bit of a ring that was left. This is only visible held in a certain way with the right lighting. Other than that, its impossible to see. Also, the machine used to repair the disc left some very very small hairline buff marks. Again, this is impossible to see unless held in a certain position and lighting.

Conclusion : Overall, the Extreme-Mods Disc Repair Service exceeded my expectations. I was expecting maybe a Disc Doctor type of repair where it would leave huge buff marks or Extreme-Mods emailing me and informing me that it was unrepairable. The disc is useless already...so I have nothing to lose. Extreme-Mods repaired a disc that no other store would perform. Even if the stores said that they can try to repair but couldnt guarantee that it can, I would of given it a shot. But they turned me down.

After being denied of repair from stores, I was so close to snapping the disc in half and tossing the disc in the garbage until I found the repair service. Extreme-Mods says they usually ship the disc back in 24-48 hours but it took about 48-72 hours due to them being a little swamped. Now, I am able to trade this game rather than have a coaster on my hand. So is it like new condition? Yes, definitely. However, the cost of repair including shipping costs is a bit too high and may put a dent in the wallet. $6 to resurface a disc? $3 would of been more reasonable. If sending disc(s) to be repaired, use a bubble padded envelope and place discs in a blank DVD case or something sturdy to prevent it from being snapped during transit.

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iPorter xSD Memory Card Holder
Manufacturer: ePorter
Site: Buy from ePorter
Price: $9.95/2 pack

Overview : The iPorter xSD fits the SD, MS Duo, MMC, xD and other smaller form cards. The exterior resembles a digital camera image. The interior holds 3 cards. The iPorter xSD is great for the photographer on the go who doesn't have time or equipment immediately available to download on the road until they get back from their excursion or photo shoot.

The ePorter products are perfect for the cards, as they fit easily in your pocket along with your keys. They do not take up a lot of room in your camera bag, yet they are large enough to prevent the cards from getting lost.

The products are also great tools that allow you to cary an extra card for your PDA program or swap the card in your MP3 player to get new music.

Features :

• Holds 3 Memory Cards
  - Secure Digital (SD)
  - xD Picture Card (xD)
  - Memory Stick Duo (MSD)
  - Multimedia Card (MMC)
  - MMC Reduced Size
• Protects cards
  - Anti Static Additive to reduce risk of shock and dust collection
  - Prevents loss
  - Can be used as a mailer to protect media
• Holds Cards of different formats or sizes
• Maximum Portability
  - Fits on key chain or zipper
  - Small form factor
• Keeps spare cards accessible
• Low cost
• Great logo / Promotional product idea

Quality/Usability : The item does its job. It protects your memory cards whether its SD, xD, Pro Duo/Duo or MMC. Its made of plastic so its very light and wont add extra weight to your keys. The case flips open pretty much like book or diary where it has that locking mechanism. Upon opening it, you will see three "sleeves". These sleeves are where you place your memory cards. To hold them in place are little "clamps". Pretty much the same thing that holds PS2 and PSP manuals in place in their respective cases.

When you place the memory cards in the "sleeve", it is held pretty well and doesnt move around at all. Even if you shake it, it still in place. You can use this for memory cards such as your Pro Duo/Duo for your PSP or your SD/xD/MMC cards for your digital camera, PDA or cellphone.

iPorter xSD comes in four different colors: Brown, Grey, Green and Blue. Currently they are sold in packs of two. You can either purchase two of the same colors or one of each color.

Conclusion : Overall, this is a great item to have if you have multiple memory cards to carry around. Its light weight and small. My only complaint is that everything is made of plastic. My only fear is that eventually when you keep opening and bending the hinges over and over again, the hinges tend to get weaker and weaker and will break sooner or later (like any other plastic items out there). This can happen to the case itself (hinges), the locking mechanism or the "sleeve" that holds the memory cards.


*UPDATE* - Response from CEO (James Porter)

If you would like to run the case over with your car or SUV to test the strength and durability, feel free to. Just know that ePorter nor DCEmu is held reliable for any damages to your case.

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Joytech HDMI TriLink Switcher
Manufacturer: Joytech
Site:
Price: $54.95-79.95


Overview : Expand your digital connections with the HDMI TriLink™ from JOYTECH. Connect up to 3 HDMI compatible devices to 1 HDMI input on your TV or display. Ideal for use with PlayStation®3, DVD, or HD satellite and cable services, the HDMI TriLink™ features a Remote Control or Manual Selector Switch allowing you to navigate your HDMI source at a touch of a button. Supports HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection), HD resolutions of up to 1080p and multi-channel digital audio.

Features :

• Remote Control included
• Connect multiple HDMI signal sources to one HDMI input on TV or display
• Easily switch between three HDMI devices
• Supports full High Defi nition resolutions up to 1080p
• Three HDCP compliant HDMI 1.3 inputs provide a pure digital connection

Quality/Usability : With more and more technology being bought and used, eventually we'll have lack of inputs for all our devices. Yes, newer TVs have inputs in the front of the TV as well as on the side but its a hassle having to reach the back of the display each time you want to plug or unplug. At the same time, it can damage the ports as well.

Thats where selectors come into play. As technology advances, eventually we'll do away with regular audio/video cables (red/white/yellow, s-video, etc.) and everything will be HD (HDMI, DVI). HDMI selectors vary in look and design, features, functionality and most importantly...price.

Joytech's HDMI TriLink Switcher supports up to 1080p and is HDCP compliant but is also small and semi-affordable compared to some other HDMI selectors on the market. Inside the Tri-Link Switcher package, you'll find the Tri-Link Switcher, a remote control with preloaded battery, power supply, USB cable, infrared extension cable and manuals.

You must be wondering why it includes a USB cable. Well, its another way for you to power the HDMI TriLink Switcher. This is great if you dont have a spare wall outlet to plug in the power supply and you're near a computer or device that has USB ports. These days DVD players, PlayStation 3, Xbox360 and HTPC (Home Theater PC), all have USB ports.

There is a button on top of the switcher that lets you toggle between INPUT 1, 2 or 3. Which ever input is chosen, it will light up with a blue LED. It also has a infrared sensor. This allows you to use the included remote. The remote allows you to choose either INPUT 1, 2 or 3 instead of having to push the buttons on the Switcher. The remote control is fairly small and runs on CR2032 watch battery. Nothing fancy to be seen here. Just three buttons to choose your desired output. Whats nice about the Joytech HDMI Tri-Link Switcher is that it includes an infrared extension cable. Selecting inputs using the remote to the switcher can only go so far. With the extension cable, you plug it in to the side of the switcher and this will allow you to switch inputs from a further distance. The bottom of the extension cable has adhesive so you can stick it to your coffee table or something.

Conclusion : Overall, the Joytech HDMI TriLink Switcher works very well. I love the fact that its compact and light, I can control the switcher from across the room using the infrared extension cable and most importantly, it can run on USB. I ran out of slots on my power surge protector and I tend to plug and unplug power supplies if I am not using it that moment. My Samsung 32" has a USB port on it and it works great. Some or most should have USB ports as this is a way of upgrading firmwares on HDTVs. I think three HDMI ports on the switcher is enough considering on average, there are about 2-3 HDMI ports on a HDTV. Unfortunately, you'll have to supply your own HDMI cables.

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Memor32 USB Memory Card (PS2)
Manufacturer: Memor32
Site: Buy from ConsoleSource
Price: $69.95


Overview : The PS2 is certainly no stranger to a continuous flow of great games which is why every hardcore gamer will adore the Memor32. Featuring a unique USB based design, the Memor32 is an advanced memory card for use on any PS2 and PSTwo systems around the world. Unlike standard memory cards, the Memor32 will allow gamers to load and unload save games to and from the PC for use with the PS2. It’s compatibility is up there with the best, with over 1500 games tested and working perfectly.

Features :

• 100% MagicGate compatible powerful 32MB memory card
• Compatible with all PS2 and PSTwo systems worldwide
• Integrated USB connector
• Load and unload saves games to and from the PC for use with the console via software
• Unrivalled compatibility, over 1500 games tested and save compatible
• Perfectly plug and play device
• Two years in development

Quality/Usability : I admit that I usually dont completely unlock all the contents of the game. Then again, after I play the game, I stop playing it and move onto the next game and the game just sits there for months before its traded or sold. But there are also games that require updated rosters that you wouldnt be able to get elsewhere such as baseball, football, basketball, etc. Who wants to sit there and manually update the rosters when you can be playing the game?

Memor32 has released a USB memory card for the PlayStation 2. It does everything a normal PS2 memory card would do such as load and save game saves. What makes the Memor32 different is that it connects to your PC via USB port on the side of the Memor32. The only thing that I can think of off the top of my head that was similar to this was the SharkPort which was also known as X-Port.

The Memor32 was tested with the latest (at time of this review) Save Game Manager (SGM) v1.3. Save Game Manager allowed you to transfer downloaded game saves from your PC to the Memor32. Team Memor32 is greatly improving SGM each time there is an update. The first release was just to show that it was legit and that more was to come. 1.1 activated the IMPORT and EXPORT functions. 1.2 added the .max extension support. 1.3 added Windows Vista support but .max extension game saves was not available at time of review.

Setup is very very easy. First and foremost, format the Memor32 on your PS2. Once its formatted, download their latest Save Game Manager and driver file. Once the files are downloaded, extract and install SGM. You'll need a USB cable to connect the Memor32 to your PC. The same cable used for the PSP or digital camera will work fine. Unfortunately, Team Memor32 does not include a USB cable in order to keep costs down. However, some retailers may include a USB cable. Connect the Memor32 to your PC and Windows will recognize the Memor32 as a USB Serial Port. It may ask to search from drivers but DO NOT let Windows download it from the internet. Instead, remember that driver download I posted above, extract it and direct Windows to search for driver in that folder. It may require you to search for drivers twice so direct it to that folder.


Upon starting up Save Game Manager, the user interface is clean and straight to the point. The left window shows what files are on the Memor32 and the right window shows your computer. In between the two windows are 5 buttons:

• BACKUP - transfer game saves from memory card to PC
• RESTORE - transfer game saves from PC to memory card
• DELETE - delete game save
• IMPORT - load game saves from PC
• EXPORT - export game saves to PC

The bottom half shows different things. The bottom right displays Memor32 status. It lets you know if the Memor32 is connected or disconnected. It also tells how much space is available on the Memor32. Underneath is a button ERASE MEMOR32. This deletes everything on the Memor32 at once. The left side displays the Save game information such as file name, size, when it was created and modified and icon of game if available.

Every time a game save is transferred whether it be to the Memor32 or to the PC, a status bar is shown at the bottom. It does not take long to transfer game saves.

Conclusion : Overall, the Memor32 USB Memory Card (PS2) is a very useful accessory for the PlayStation 2. Unfortunately, its 2 years too late. The PlayStation 2 is on its last legs as publishers and developers are focusing on the new next gen consoles such as the Wii, Xbox 360 and PlayStation3. But this wont stop anyone whether or not you have beaten a game or dont even own any of the new systems. The Memor32 is great for updated sports roster or for those who like to cheat in a game or just to play through it with everything unlocked once they have beaten it...with no cheats of course. Price whoever is a bit pricey especially with no USB cable included. If this was $40USD or so, this would be the sweet spot for PS2 gamers.

People are wondering, wheres the Memento ...

Talismoon HDMI Switcher with Remote
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site:
Price: $105.00-$129.95


Overview : The HDMI SWITCHER is a HDMI HUB that allows you to connect your console or dvd player to a tv and easily switch from a device to another with a simple remote control press.

Simply pressing a button on the remote you can select your desired HDMI source to be routed to a high definition display. Switcher is tested to guarantee resolution up to 1080p without signal degradation.
HDMI repeater is built in to the switch for long output cables. If your cable if over 15ft distance then with regular switch you would get signal degradation. However with HDMI switch box signal can be amplified to go over 60ft!

Features :

• Approved by HDMI ATC lab
• Fully supports 1080P HDTV
• HDCP Compliant
• Supports DTS, Dolby 7.1 Channel Audio
• GOLD PLATED CONNECTORS
• IR Remote control
• Expand 4HDMI sources on your HDTV device
• Amplifier & Equalizer function enables longer HDMI cables
• Plug & Play, installs in seconds
• RoHS compliant
• 110v-240v auto switching power supply
• HDMI CABLE INCLUDED

Quality/Usability : The Talismoon HDMI Switcher with Remote is designed to allow you, the user, to toggle between four (4) HDMI sources. You may think why would you need or want something like this. If you havent noticed, as more and more devices such as HDTV's, HD cable, satellite boxes, DVD players (Blu-Ray and HD-DVD), they are now incorporating HDMI. As more people get into high def, they will have more and more devices but are only limited to a certain amount of inputs on their devices.

The HDMI Switcher measures approximately 7 inches wide by 3 inches deep and 1 inch high. The switcher is made of metal and not plastic. This makes the switcher very sturdy and a solid feel. The front houses four green LEDs and 1 red LED. The green LEDs are to let you know which HDMI port is in use and the red LED is to let you know that the power is on. To the right of the button is a SELECT button that lets you toggle between the HDMI ports. On the back, there are four HDMI inputs. To the left is one HDMI output and DC port to plug power adapter.

Setup is plug-and-play. Simply plug in the cables, select the port and you're good to go! If your device does not have HDMI but uses DVI, you can also use DVI devices so as long you use the appropriate adapter.

Testing with a Sony PlayStation 3, XBox 360 Elite and HD-DVD Player and a Dell PC that uses DVI, all devices switched without a problem. I did not notice any quality downgrade. Even upconverted DVDs worked without a problem. What I did notice was that there was no input for audio.

The included remote measures approximately 3.5 inches tall by 1.5 inches wide and 0.25 inches high. The face of the remote has a POWER ON/OFF on the top left with 1-4 in the middle to select your mode. There is also a forward and back button to control the input sources. The battery runs on a Lithium Battery CR2025 (watch battery).

Conclusion : Overall, the Talismoon HDMI Switcher with Remote worked without a hitch. The design is nice and sleek and built sturdy. I dont know if this is on all HDMI Switchers but the one I received said "HIDOZO" on top. Dont know what this means or what the purpose is but it looks tacky. The lack of audio ports can be a negative to those who want the best set up. Would of also been nice if it included a DVI to HDMI adapter. The expensive price tag may turn people away but if you're running out of HDMI ports or looking for a selector, I suggest taking a look at this.

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Kingmax microSD to Pro Duo Adapter
Manufacturer: Kingmax
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $17.00

Overview : Transform microSD into Memory Stick Duo

Features :

• Ideal for use in small digital devices
• Transform microSD into Memory Stick PRO Duo format
• Compatible with Memory Stick PRO Duo device e.g. PSP

Specifications :

• Form factor:
• MS PRO Duo adapter: 31(w) x 20(H) x 1.6(D)mm
• Operating Voltage: 2.7V~3.6V
• Weight Aggrox. 1g

Quality/Usability : Some of you have probably heard about this unique adapter. The Kingmax microSD to Pro Duo Adapter allows you to use your microSD card, also known as TransFlash, in your electronic devices that uses Pro Duo such as Sony Ericsson cellphones and your Sony PSP.

Prices of microSD are fairly cheap and are the size of a thumbnail. If you can find the right deal, you can get a 1GB microSD card for free or for $10. The bigger the storage, the higher the price. This is a great alternative to having to buy a 1GB Pro Duo card.

Slipping the microSD card into the Pro Duo adapter is like any other adapter whether its Pro Duo to Memory Stick adapter, microSD to SD adapter and so on. Removing it is the same as well.

Once a microSD card is inserted, reading and writing is about the same as if it was a Pro Duo. I used Brando 55 in 1 Card Reader/Writer and the speeds of reading/writing to the card is fairly quick.

I tried the adapter both in my Sony PSP and Sony Ericsson w810i. I tested this with a SanDisk, PNY and US Modular 1GB microSD cards. In both devices, they both read the adapter without a problem. Listening to music and playing videos did not show any signs of slow down. With regards to playing games on the PSP, I didnt notice any slow downs or lags.

Conclusion : Overall, the Kingmax microSD to Pro Duo Adapter is great if you have microSD cards laying around the house. The speed of reading and writing is as fast as a normal Pro Duo card. Luckily, the price of microSD cards are cheap so it makes a good alternative to the Pro Duo card. Currently, the highest microSD card available is 2GB.

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ZAGG invisibleSHIELD Macbook
Manufacturer: invisibleSHIELD
Site: Buy from invisibleSHIELD
Price: $54.95 (full body coverage); $39.95 (standard coverage); $24.95 (wrist rest coverage); $17.95 (battery coverage)


Overview : Your search for a(n) Apple MacBook 13 inch case, skin, or cover is now over. The invisibleSHIELD™ is an exceptionally clear and virtually indestructible film that will protect your MacBook 13 inch from unsightly scratches. Our exclusive nano-memory™ technology covers and shields your device, keeping it as pristine as the day you took it out of the box.

The precision pre-cut invisibleSHIELD applies directly to your MacBook 13 inch, providing the toughest, most durable protection you will find. The invisibleSHIELD has its origins in the military, where it was used to protect high-speed helicopter blades from dust, dirt and debris. Now you can use that same powerful technology to protect your MacBook 13 inch.

The invisibleSHIELD is only .2 millimeters thick making it the slimmest MacBook 13 inch skin or MacBook 13 inch cover of its kind. It is so tough that we back it with a lifetime guarantee. So, if it ever does wear or scratch, we will replace it for free, for the life of your device. And if you ever need to remove the invisibleSHIELD, no problem; it comes off clean and leaves no sticky residue.

If you're still not convinced, check out our demo video and see for yourself how strong the invisibleSHIELD™ really is.

Features:

• Full Body coverage: Top, bottom, wrist rest, track pad and mouse button(s).
• Standard coverage: Top, wrist rest, track pad and mouse button(s).
• Wrist Rest coverage: Wrist Rest only.
• Battery coverage: Battery only.

Quality/Usability : I thought I would spice up the reviews with something not gaming related.

I've been wanting to protect my 13.3" Black Macbook from scratches or marks and possibly give it that glossy look but still keep its cool black color. Since its black, its more visible and noticeable if it there was a blemish so I thought I'd give ZAGG's invisibleSHIELD for the 13" Macbook a try. You've probably have either heard of invisibleSHIELD or seen some form of their advertisement such as key scratching ipod, pen trying to go through invisibleSHIELD. They protect everything from your precious iPods, to cellphones to cameras and even your PSP.

invisibleSHIELD comes in a cardboard tube. Inside the tube are two complimentary bottled solutions (just water), squeegee, instructions and 3 invisibleSHIELD sheets. One sheet contains the cover, second sheet contains the battery and bottom and the third sheet contains the wrist rest, button and trackpad. All invisibleSHIELD products are clear giving you the ultimate protection without changing the looks.

I've installed numerous DecalGirl skins on consoles and those were easy. Even if you messed up, peeling and reapplying was easy. So I thought this would be a walk through the park....boy was I wrong. First, they suggest washing your hands so that your fingerprints arent all over the sticky side of the invisibleSHIELD. OK, I have no problem with that. Next, spray your fingerstips with the SHIELDspray (its just regular water) and peel the invisibleSHIELD off the paper backing. Once peeled off, hold the invisibleSHIELD in your hands with the adhesive side up. Lightly spray the front (instructions states to spray back also, why? I dont know) of the invisibleSHIELD. DO NOT spray on the laptop itself. Once you have applied water to the invisibleSHIELD. Apply it to your laptop and slide it into place. STOP! What they didnt mention is that this method is for glossy Macbook's. My Black Macbook is matte. Its not glossy like the white ones. Had it been glossy, installation would have been a lot smoother. So sliding into place on a matte surface would be very hard to do as the invisibleSHIELD grips onto the matte casing. Since I can not slide into place, I had to lift up the invisibleSHIELD. Use the squeegee to push the excess moisture and bubbles away from the center to the edges. Again, it was impossible with the Black Macbook.

Since I'm a perfectionist and a bit anal when it comes to things like this, I had to lift and re-align the invisibleSHIELD multiple times on the cover. Just when I thought I had it, it was uneven. So I had to take the whole part off and reapply. Doing this also stretched out the invisibleSHIELD. So when I finally had it aligned correctly on three sides of the cover. The fourth side was too long. No way for me to even it out.

The battery was easier as the invisibleSHIELD piece was small and easier to handle. Same goes for the rest of the bottom invisibleSHIELD. But you would think that the wrist rest, button and trackpad would be even easier. Wrong. The illustrated image at the top from invisibleSHIELD shows that the wrist/trackpad area should be four piece. The piece I received was one big piece. I couldnt even take the trackpad or button piece off. You can see the indentation or semi-cut out but was unable to remove it or ...

iSkin SOHO Macbook Sleeve Case
Manufacturer: iSkin
Site: Buy from iSkin
Price: $59.99 (For 13" MacBook or Similar Sized PC Laptop); $64.99 (For 15" MacBook Pro or Similar Sized PC Laptop)


Overview :
It's what's inside that counts.
On the go with your laptop means keeping it safe and the iSkin SOHO does just that. With elegant style and cool colors, SOHO features a multi-layered design to absorb the hits and dings that would normally damage your laptop.

MacBook, meet your match.
Made for the MacBook and Macbook Pro, the SOHO's distinguished good looks, coupled with legendary iSkin fit and finish, makes it the perfect accessory for your laptop and your outfit. It also fits PC's with similar dimensions.

Right down to the zipper.
Zipping around town means you need quick access to your computer. The SOHO features an iSkin designed ergonomic zipper that's easy to grab and pull. It also looks great!

Look good anywhere.
Combined with the iSkin ProTouch Keyboard Protector, the SOHO is ideal for students, business users and just about anyone who prefers to be anywhere but at a desk. It also makes a great heat barrier when using your MacBook on your lap.

Features:

• Specifically made for Apple MacBook / MacBook Pro
• Works with similar sized PC laptops
• Slim two-tone design
• Colored stitching
• Simulated premium leather finish
• Reinforced, durable, outer shell
• Color-matching, plush padded lining
• Sure-grip custom iSkin designed zipper pull
• Clam-shell design for easy access to laptop
• Inner elastic screen straps
• Multi-layered construction
• Stylish yet elegant
• Reinforced spine
• Available in a variety of color styles

Specifications:
For MacBook or similar PC
Length: 13" (33cm)
Width: 9" (23cm)
Depth: 1" (4cm)

For MacBook Pro or similar PC
Length: 14.1" (36cm)
Width: 9.6" (25cm)
Depth: 1" (4cm)


Available in a variety color combinations:

• Amazon: Black with Pink
• Graphite: Black with Grey
• Magnum: Black with Red
• Sahara: Black with Orange
• Azure: Black with Blue

Quality/Usability : I have been on a hunt to find that perfect notebook sleeve to carry my Macbook instead of lugging around my North Face laptop backpack. I didnt want anything too bulky and simple but at the same time, being stylish. iSkin's SOHO seems to fit the bill. iSkin is known for the iPod cases and their PSP carry cases.

The iSkin SOHO is made of black "premium synthetic leather" with colored stitching and colored lining all around. The outer hard shell and inner lining protects your precious laptop from everyday hazards such as minor scratches, bumps and spills. The sides where the zipper is located does not offer much protection like the outer hard shell but dont worry, the zipper does not touch laptop either as it is also lined. The zipper contains a iSkin logo but it would have been nice if it included two zippers instead of one. The SOHO also protects your lap from the heat coming from the bottom of your notebook.

What I also like about the SOHO compared to some other sleeves on the market is that you can use your notebook while its in the sleeve since it has two elastic bands on the top of the case. So when you open the SOHO, the lid of your notebook also opens at the same time. The inner lining is the same color as the zipper and stitching and also has "iSkin" imprinted all over.

The SOHO fits perfectly around the Macbook without adding much bulk but still giving ample protection at the same time. You can also place this into a carry bag or backpack without a problem. But I feel that the SOHO is mainly aimed towards Apple laptops rather than PC laptops.

CAUTION: Remove the laptop from the SOHO while connected to an external monitor or when used for extended periods of time. iSkin is not responsible for damage caused to your laptop when used with this product.

Conclusion : Overall, the iSkin SOHO Macbook Sleeve Case is great for any college student or a freelancer like me who meets clients every so often. Its elegant and nothing too flashy or fancy on the eyes. Since this is a sleeve case, there are no additional pockets and no strap, so holding it may cause you to drop it. So if you carrying a mouse, charger and other accessories with you, you'll need to carry a bag with you. I no longer have to expose my Macbook to potential damage and its easier to use on public transportation. Its so convenient...just unzip and open. No more removing laptop from sleeve and having to shove it back in when I'm done or rushing to get off train/bus. Just close and zip it up. Although its probably the best looking and best protecting case, the price will hurt your wallet compared to others out there. Its either spend a little bit extra and know you're getting protection or take the risk of buying something cheaper and potentially damaging your laptop and having to buy a new one later on.

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