By Steven G. Bush
February 9, 2001

One of the things I enjoy most about the nascent handheld computer market is that it's created several unique cottage industries, where homegrown solutions are gladly welcomed. Marc Brooks is one of those do-it-yourself entrepreneurs who's made a name for himself in the area of iPAQ Pocket PC accessories, such as his i-Jacket body covers.

Recently Brooks launched a followup to his successful iPAQ covers. It's a low-profile screen protector for the iPAQ called the iLid.

Installing the iLid

Needless to say, the packaging for the iLid (US$19.95) is very low-tech. It's consists of a red construction paper shipper with the iLid, along with an extra handle and hinge, taped to it.

You can go to www.PDAJacket.com for installation instructions, but I don't think you'll need them, installation is that simple.

You simply peel off the backing to the hinge, position the iLid over your iPAQ's screen and press the vinyl tape down. Next, peel off the backing on the screen protector.

That's it.

Brooks claims the iLid lasts several months under heavy use and works with any Compaq iPAQ Expansion Pack, including the CompactFlash and PC Card sleeves.

The iLid comes in clear and red. I prefer the clear protector, since it allows you to read the iPAQ's screen while closed.

Overall, the iLid is one product we'd definitely recommend to any iPAQ user looking for added screen protection.