You all know about how useful the Blackberry/Crackberry is. But what if it has problems?

What happens when you get scratches in the screen?

First, if you do, you're treading in very troubled waters. Why? Because if it has happened once, it's likely to happen again unless you change some usage/storage habits.

Second, if you have scratches, you're jeopardizing the usefulness of your tool. After all, the "tool" part is what sets the blackberry apart from all the other "toy" pda's out there.

If you have scratches in your blackberry you could begin to create a mental block to looking it. You might not even realize you're doing it but sub-consciously you might be dreading looking at the screen again because those scratches bother your brain. Eventually you'll stop using it because the scratches bother you too much.

So, how do you avoid it?

There are 2 ways:

1. Prevent them from happening.

2. Fix the scratches if they're already there.

Preventing Scratches

Preventing scratches is reasonably easy. Either use the belt carrying case or buy a screen protector. The belt case is pretty good for preventing scratches, but it's not guaranteed to do so. You could easily get a little sand in it and it would scratch it all over the place.

The screen protector is probably the best way to go here. For around $15 you can get a screen protector that will virtually eliminate scratches 100%.

Fixing Scratches

If you have scratches in your blackberry screen, you need to fix them asap. I wrote an article about removing scratches from a blackberry that will help you with the applesauce polish method.

Other methods include using toothpaste and a cotton swab. Basically you can put toothpaste on a cotton swab and rub it on your screen. Then use a wet cotton swab to clean the toothpaste off.

There are also two other products called CD 2000 and BRASSO that are rumored to work, but I personally haven't used them.

Whatever you try, make sure you do it soon. Those scratches can be lethal to your productivity.

IF you've been around a PDA for more than a few seconds, you understand that this device is a great invention. It has very little disadvantages. But one distinct disadvantage is the fact that it's almost impossible to write more than a few words on the PDA's keyboard. It's too small and completely un comfortable. That why the PDA keyboards were introduced to the market. It's a simple solution. You get yourself a portable, wireless keyboard, sync it with your Palm iPAQ, or whatever PDA you're using and that's it. You now can type all day long like you do on your PC and get all that fed right into your PDA for later use. And the keyboards are not expansive - less than $50 will get you a great wireless keyboard that will serve you well.

There are quite a few keyboard models on the market, and it's best to do a little research before buying. You'll be wise to check a few parameters before you buy yourself a PDA keyboard, to make sure you're choosing the right product.

1. Is it wireless? Most keyboards on today's market are wireless. Sure you can get one with a wire but it makes no sense. Why limit yourself? You'll want to use the keyboard in all kinds of situations, maybe with the PDA tucked down inside your handbag? Go for wireless - the price gap in insignificant.

2. Is it comfortable? Not all keyboards are nice and comfortable, and not all of them are agronomic. If possible, try to use a few keyboards before buying. Choose the one that is the most comfortable for you, even if costs a little more. You'll thank yourself later.

3. Does it allow you to type as fast as you like to? If you chose a keyboard that is comfortable for you, typing fast will be easy.

4. What kind of power source does it need? Most keyboards need a few standard batteries to operate. Make sure your chosen keyboard doesn't need anything exotic.

5. Installation - make sure the installation process is easy. Make sure your version of the PDA and it's Operating System support this keyboard. This sounds trivial but you'll be amazed how many times people over look this.

Getting a portable keyboard will make your life a lot easier that having to get along with out one. In fact, many users claim that buying a $45 keyboard to add to their PDA saved then investing $1200 in buying a new notebook computer. So consider getting that keyboard - you'll never understand how you managed without it.

You probably heard of the possibility of renting a PDA an a daily basis. This can be hiring an iPAQ, a Palm or what ever other PDA you're interested in so your needs are met. Some people may ask - why should I rent a PDA? So let's take a look at the scenarios in which you may consider a PDA rental:

1. Your own PDA in now being repaired. This is obvious - your PDA is broken or malfunctions and it's being repaired. You are used using a PDA to help you with your busy life and work tasks, so you're looking for a replacement. The great thing here is that you can take the memory card from your own PDA and plug it into the rented one and this way you will not lose any of your own data. 2. Your own PDA was stolen - this is the least pleasant of all scenarios. If your PDA was stolen, you may be on the market for a new one. Meanwhile, you don't want to go without a pocket pc, so you go ahead and rent one. 3. Your notebook computer is being repaired/stolen - If you own a notebook computer and it's now not available due to being repaired/stolen, you may want to consider renting a PDA in the computer's stead. Of course, you can rent a notebook computer, but the renal fees are much higher for them. Consider renting a PDA instead and lowering your expanses. 4. You want to make an impression - let's say you have a very important business meeting, and you really want to make a great impression. Many people will go ahead and rent a suit, an expensive wrist watch etc. So why not rent an expensive looking PDA as well? This can go a long way to complete the great impression you want to leave with the people you meet. 5. You want to test out a PDA - You heard good things about a certain PDA and want to try in out for a few days before buying. You can rent in for a day or two and try it out, while spending only a few dollars instead of buying it right off the bat.

OK, so now that we are clear on the main reasons why someone would want to rent a PDA, we can take a look at a few tips about the actual renal process:

1. Make sure what brand of PDA you want. If you already own a PDA - that is easy. You rent the same one you already hove. If you don't own one, take a look at the different models and pick the one that is best for your needs. There are big price differences. For examples, pdarentals.com offer an iPAQ for $9/day + shipping, a Palm IIIxe for $2.50/day + shipping, or a Palm Professional for $1/day + shipping. So make sure you choose the most suitable deal. 2. Do a little research before you rent. Try to find a reputable renting agency that has good service and reasonable prices. You can look for them over on the Internet, or in your local business directory. Always ask for references. 3. Make sure you have insurance. What happens if the rented PDA breaks down or gets stolen while it's rented to you? Make sure you're covered. As you can see, renting a PDA can be a very comfortable solution for a number of situations. Just make sure you rent at a good agency and you're all set.