I gave up using my Alu case because of drop in power. I had seen another post from someone that changed their case but this one is really nice.
If there are any of the case makers that look at this forum then take this as a wish list of what I (we?) would like to see in the future.
http://www.pda4thai.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=22
This looks really cool! Thumbs up!
The only drawback seems to be the gap between the custom case and the hardware buttons, it seems you have to put your finger (or thumb ) deep into the holes of the case to reach the buttons...
This is the first time I heard of casemodding a PocketPC I am curious if there are any other contributions!
but that case is not really going to protect the screen also i doubt it would inc the signal strength all that much more then the std alu one
As the XDAII has no antenna, are there signal problem with this case ?
Drop in Power with XDAII and alloy case
I would have to confirm that there is most definitely a drop in signal strength when using an alloy case and the XDAII. This will be usually at least one bar on the signal meter, and can be verified by just inserting the thing and watching.
Given the lack of an external antenna, this is not surprising. I just wish I'd thought about it before lashing out 50 bucks!!!
The Thai casemod would help with the caller ID problem, but unless someone has delved inside the case of one of these to find the antenna then I would say that an alloy case is near useless unless you live next to a base station.
I would have thought that a well designed alloy case could include a connection to the external aerial socket on the back of the XDA with a flip up aerial on the case.....
Cheers
Funny, I don't seem to have the same problem. Full signal, and still full bars after putting it in the case. But i'll try checking with Phone Dashboard as it has a percentage of the signal displayed.
In the event that there's no loss, either the new radio-stack COULD actually affect the signal performance, or you were just in a borderline signal area when you put the jacket on.
In any case, i think it's still worth it as it really protects the PDA. I mean take the free the leather case: it falls on any of it's corners, and you'll have cosmetic issues immediately.
The Alu case however, i only spotted one weak angle of falling, and its like a 1/100 chance to fall exactly like that (assuming you drop it in flat surfaces) that would have to be TOP first, and a little tilted to the back (where the SD card /antenna cover is exposed)
So overall, I think dropping a bar is worth it (if you are one of those who actually suffer from this) as you can always take out the XDAII when in critical need of signal.
Guys,
I am in the market for an alu case for the XDAII. Are you talking about this one ?
http://www.expansys.com/product.asp?code=109749
Thanks,
Rob.
yes, that's excactly it :wink:
Other ally case issues
The modification looks good - where can I get a Cover Pack for iPAQ 3870 ?
Another thing that would help would be to use voice dialling - because the modification still doesn't help for making a call, unless you have dialled it before closing the case. However, I can't seem to find a voice dialling setting. Is there one?
The other problem with the case is it taking two hands to open. Please let me know if you find one that has a nice swish press-catch that can be operated with one hand... Also one that you can put in the cradle while in its case
There is also a strand about the case in 'Using it'. W were talking about how slippery the case is, and raises the likelihood of dropping it in the first place. Someone suggests something from Egrips.com that will help...
Incidentally, I don't lose any signal bars with it in the case.
cathy
http://www.expansys.com/product.asp?code=249707-B21
you mean this one ?
if not or you want to get it more local then expansys
look for yourself
http://www.google.dk/search?q=+Cover+Pack+for+iPAQ+3870&hl=da&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&start=10&sa=N
Alu Case
I Have got the alu case for my XDAII there id definatley a signal drop when i put it into the case but it still looks good i guess
It not only cut radio signal, it kills the bluetooth connections too. Good looking but not too functional.
Related
I was on a plane this morning and as I walked down the aisle I saw someone reading a magazine with an ad for the perfect XDA II case. Unfortunately, I must have read the URL wrong. I thought it was "sanocases.com" but that doesn't work, nor a couple of similar things I tried.
Does that name ring a bell with anyone? It's a case much like the EB case for the XDA I, which doesn't have the annoying snap strap on it.
I have a vague memory of a screen protector sold under the "Sando" brand name but cant find anything on google.
Carlos said:
I was on a plane this morning and as I walked down the aisle I saw someone reading a magazine with an ad for the perfect XDA II case. Unfortunately, I must have read the URL wrong. I thought it was "sanocases.com" but that doesn't work, nor a couple of similar things I tried.
Does that name ring a bell with anyone? It's a case much like the EB case for the XDA I, which doesn't have the annoying snap strap on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe JavoCase ?
Look here http://www.javoedge.com
Serge
Thanks guys, but no dice. The Javo is interesting though, I might just get one to test drive. Similar to the protection of the aluminum case (which I mostly love) except without the signal interference problem.
how about www.senacases.com?
Unfortunately, I don't see a XDA II case by them - or at least, not on their website.
I think that's it! But I could have sworn it was an XDA II that was in the ad photo. Damn, my eyes must have been really bad that early in the morning.
Founding the right case for me wasn't difficult.
I just take the ones that cames with the XDAII and cut off the flap.
No regrets
Since you seem to be looking for something protective and not limiting radio reception, have a look at the Proporta Clearcase (name doesnt sound like "sano" . . . )
www.proporta.com
Case is excellent, because its 'plastic' (durable though) it will get scratches, but that what its for.
Finaly see who is calling without opening the case
Only need to open it is to write on it.
I think the case (when closed) is stable enough to protect the XDA2 (or MDAII, although tha case was designed for the plain XDA2/iMate case, the T-Mobile case fits too with all button available without opeing clearcase), but I did not dare to test a drop from the table . . .
I just ordered the Javo clear case, which seems the same. I agree that it seems ideal, as I love the protection of the metal case but not the slight signal degradation.
Javo clearcase IS the same as proporta Clearcase.
Shipping is cheaper with Proporta (at least in Europe)
I have one of the plastic cases and I love it. I've had it about a month now and the case has a minor scratch on it, well, more a chunk from my keys. Well worth it
Thank's for the link's , do any of you guy's know where i could find a case for the xda 2 which is deep enough to take a backpack as well . cheers steve
I have a Krussel drop-in case which would probably work with the backpack. I use that now because I use the car kit, so an attached case doesn't make sense.
I have buyed all cases available for my Qtek2020.
Silicon case, no good for me, after 1 week is broken and the screen is not protected.
Metal case, the door is uncomfortable, and for me is not good when the phone receive the call because i open the door, is very strong.
Case in policarbonete clear, very best solution, very strong and comfortable, I prefere this one.
if the screen were not protected then you were not using this one
http://forum.xda-developers.com/viewtopic.php?t=20484
but it will break if you take it out of the case too often which is why i dont use the cradle anymore
there are many many many cases and i doubt you tried them all ....
my poly cased died after a drop
and it was troublesome to open compared to the silicone i use now
silicon == melted sand you make chips from
silicone == rubber
I found this one http://www.cases.com/xda2.htm last days but I am still looking for one than I can use with the backpack.
See you
The best case ever!!!!
Finally I found it!!!!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/viewtopic.php?p=239589#239589
Hi Guys,
Got myself a Casemate Tough. Brilliant case & I love the feel of it. Makes holding the phone so much more easier. I always felt without the case I was going to let the HD slip
Anyways, as with some people I have noticed a real drop in GPS signal with the silicone part on. The hard back makes no difference. Without case I have maybe 20ft error, with the case this can rise to over 200ft error & it maybe loses half the sats.
I have read the reviews on the Tough & Pop, but must say I prefer my Tough.
My question is, does anyone know where the GPS antenna is situated in the phone. I am just going to take a stanley blade & trim some silicone out around the affected area. It appears to be mid to low down, but I want to remove as little as possible from my case.
Any gurus out there had one of these in pieces yet.
Cheers guys, Shane
I don't know where the GPS part is located but I have also a case-mate case and I have no problems to get GPS signal.
But I read that some people have the same problem with the metalic case.
Hi lilil
It is strange.
How long have you had your case. I wonder if it is a manufacturing date change or something equally weird.
Cheers, Shane
I have a case mate pop on my DHD since 3 months and no problems with gps signal strong and fast as ever...really weird problem!
Hi Guys,
I have just ordered a case mate Pop tonight, so I will see what that is like when it arrives.
Cheers, Shane
my casemate pop doesnt seem to have issues though.. I read that the gps is at the top of the phone too!
Glad you like the Tough case its my favourite case also.
Can't say I have noticed any issues with location, its dead on where I am and the case mate Tough is always on my phone.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
I was using this case before switching to the Otterbox commuter. As far as I remember I did not have any GPS problems with the Tough. I read that the GPS receiver is behind the rubbery part around the flash LED.
This is very weird. I have the Tough and I also have a great drop in signal with it on. Is it possible that the firmware version of the phone might have something to do with it?
Removing my case increases a faster gps fix.
Although the newest leaked radio does a great job too.
The gps antenna is situated at the bottom, I read somewhere
Doctor.Who said:
Although the newest leaked radio does a great job too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you be a bit more specific, please - a link would be even better Also, how's the battery life on that radio? Any difference?
el_commandante said:
Could you be a bit more specific, please - a link would be even better Also, how's the battery life on that radio? Any difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
04th April 2011: Radio_12.48.60.23U_26.08.04.07_M3
http://www.multiupload.com/LMGHQ26L1R
batterylife is a bit better in my experience
For info......
The GPS antenna is on the back of the SIM/Sdcard cover, remove the cover and you'll see it.
As for the radio, I agree with the above, Radio 12.48.60.23U_26.08.04.07_M3 is for me the best radio I've tested both for signal and battery life. Be aware though that different radios perform differently for different people and is dependant on location (country), carrier, etc. Try different radios to see which works best for you.
Hello,
just for infomration a solve doubts the GPS is in the backside of the Flash Leds.
Look this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfatoeWbMRk
Thanks
Gps antenna is under the flash cover.
I have a tough case, and yeah i realise that in certain places, my positioning is way off. But here in Trinidad GPS has no real functionality (sucky EDGE network), so not a big deal for me.
Since no one did a review I guess I will be happy to do one.
I love the design of it, the way it fits the phone perfectly. BUT there is one disadvantage which is the magnetic strip interferes with the GPS signal as one user stated in this topic (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2187199&highlight=zenus). As you can see in the picture where the paperclip is pointed that is where the magnetic area is slightly pulling the paperclip. Every time I put this case on the GPS signal does not lock on at all. As soon as I take it off the GPS signal locks on.
If GPS use not an option for you then this case is fine for you. If GPS is a necessity then this case is NOT for you. I have returned the case. It was an easy process.
If your willing to still buy it. It's worth $35 on amazon.com.
I am thinking of getting one of these. Does it still close well with 2 credit cards and a bit of cash?
Shame about the GPS, someone on Amazon claimed that the mobile signal is affected as well. This is not true, right?
AnonymousPenguin said:
I am thinking of getting one of these. Does it still close well with 2 credit cards and a bit of cash?
Shame about the GPS, someone on Amazon claimed that the mobile signal is affected as well. This is not true, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It closes fine but some credit cards have raised indentations. When you close the case with items in it, it is a pretty tight fit to the point where it may scratch your screen when hard cards are inserted. Since the cover does move a tiny bit causing any hard cards to rub against the screen. Paper items are fine since it wont scratch the screen as well as money. Ill say the most that you can fit is one credit card in the top pocket and one in the bottom or 2 paper cards. Any more will bulge the case when it's close and may increase the chance that the cards may rub against the screen causing a slight mark.
As for the mobile signal I was not sure I had no problems making a call on 1-5 bars while I am outside but when I put the case on I notice it did drop 1 to 2 bars less from 5. It is the GPS signal that does not lock on when this case is on.
I have a screen protector on anyways so I was not worried.
Glad I found this post! Bummer about the GPS lock issue. I was getting ready to make a purchase on this case as well, but I use GPS every day, so it's not suitable for me.
I recently bought this case from ebay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/390630257463
It's a great case - solid, doesn't make the phone thicker (The stock backing is removed to fit the case on), and makes the buttons MUCH easier to find and press.
But that case has a problem. It blocks 4G signal and most of the voice signal! So obviously I'm returning it.
So I'm in search of something with similar parameters - metal casing, and buttons instead of a hole to access the actual phone buttons. And one that doesn't block service :good:
Any suggestions are appreciated!
xMopx said:
I recently bought this case from ebay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/390630257463
It's a great case - solid, doesn't make the phone thicker (The stock backing is removed to fit the case on), and makes the buttons MUCH easier to find and press.
But that case has a problem. It blocks 4G signal and most of the voice signal! So obviously I'm returning it.
So I'm in search of something with similar parameters - metal casing, and buttons instead of a hole to access the actual phone buttons. And one that doesn't block service :good:
Any suggestions are appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think with any metal case or bumper you are going to lose some reception.
I had this bumper...
http://www.fashionphonecase.com/img...ve_Case_Bumper_Metal_Case_for_Galaxy_S4_3.jpg
And it was still affecting my reception. This is a bumper not a full case. It's full aluminum and goes completely around the edge of the phone and leaves the back exposed.
Hi..Well I am using a steel case for my S4 , I got it from Fommy..the case is quite genuine of quality and working very well and up till now I have not faced any signal problems in my phone due to that case..So you can just check out once at Fommy may be you find something interesting and one more thing they ship my case free of cost...
Thanks Hope that will be helpful.....
You can Hit thanks if you find it good....
I just took some pictures of my Galaxy S5 with a Draco Supermova on it. I also have the Samsung qi charging back on. Enjoy!
how does it look in ur pocket?
db loss
I used an aluminum bumper on my s4 and had a large signal loss. How is it with that case?
I don't really see any signal loss. The case is slippery and makes the phone heavier. It also does not "grip" very well. It looks awesome but the sweeping bulges interfere with using the phone. I am happy with the way it looks but not with the use of the phone with it on.
It fits in my pocket fine but it does make the phone very wide. I think it is bigger than a note 3 when in this case.
That's Nice ! :good:
I really like this but would be worried about signal loss.
Wow thats very nice looking.
GPS
I find the aluminium bumper affects GPS reliability. Even till a point where maps isn't usable on the S5.
Cell signal is affected adversely by around -10 dBm with the aluminium bumper on as well but I'm in the bush so signal is usually bad.
Vin.
Carrier posibly an impact?
I have a similar setup. However instead of the Draco Design Supernova, I have the cheap (~$12) Love Mei knock off called the "Slim Waist Bumper".
Finish is not as good as the Draco (all the milling marks are still evident, rather than the quality finish of the Draco, so you get what you pay for. A cheap prices for a cheap case).
Note, I'm not sure but possibly the Wireless Charging Back is helping? Besides the charging pad, there's an extended antenna for the NFC (normally from the battery). Perhaps it's used for more than NFC and thus negates some of the metal case impact?
I do see from the FCC images for T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint that antenna layouts differ between those devices. Perhaps this impacts the signal as well.
That said, I found that I still have extremely close to the same amount of phone signal, no appreciable Wi-Fi impact (I use 802.11ac, but it's been solid everywhere I use wireless) and the GPS shows accurate to 16 feet when using the GPS testing software. Removing the case yields a stronger GPS, but the accuracy seems to be similar (14 feet). So perhaps it's where I'm located and the number of SATs in view (15).
Downtown Seattle, GPS is pretty spotty but I suspect the skyscrapers blocking line of site is the reason. But in urban and suburban locations it's pretty solid. I've used the Google Navigation functions multiple times with the phone and case and have arrived to my destination every time.
The use of a glass screen protector, this case and the official Wireless Charging Back have provided me a nice looking phone.
Thank you for your review SeaFractor.
jspare, SeaFractor, I heard that the Wireless Charging cover is thiker than the original one and many cases will not fit.
Does it affect how Draco bumper sits on the phone?
wildguess said:
Thank you for your review SeaFractor.
I heard that the Wireless Charging cover is thiker than the original one and many cases will not fit.
Does it affect how Draco bumper sits on the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it fits fin as the wireless back is thicker, just still has that rounded back on the sides. There's enough slope that it doesn't interfere with the case. It actually looks designed for it. I've removed the back and put on the original and it looks good either way.
Obviously I enjoy using the wireless charging as I was worried about the USB port cover eventually getting damaged from use.