There can be no question that the most important part of any mobile device is also the most fragile.  Of course, I am talking about the screen, particularly on touch screen devices.  Look at how we treat the screens on our devices.  We touch, slide, poke, prod, and generally abuse our screens.  All of this abuse can result in a screen which is covered in dirt, fingerprints, and more importantly scratches and nicks.  Replacing the screen is an expensive and time consuming proposition, so what are you to do to ensure that your screen lasts as long as the lifetime of your device?

Well, this is where Boxwave enters the picture, with their ClearTouch Anti-Glare screen protectors.  These screen protectors are custom cut to fit the screen on your specific device.  I tested two different screen protectors on my Sprint Mogul and my Sandisk Sansa.  Read past the jump to see how they worked.

Application of the screen protectors are pretty standard, and everything you need is included in the package.  First, wipe off the screen with the included microfiber cloth.  Do not use any kind of cleaning agents or even water as this can damage your screen (which is really what we are trying to avoid, right?  The dry cloth, which is included in the package is all you will need.

Boxwave then recommends (and I think it is a good recommendation) that you position the screen protector on your screen with the adhesive still in place.  This will allow you to find the best position before you adhere it.

Now that you have determined the best position for it, just peel off the backing and adhere it to the screen.  I’ll admit that I am lousy at this process, frequently ending up with a crooked screen protector.  And who wants that?  So, of course, my lovely wife helped me out in that department, and she did a great job!  Of course, I also have to acknowledge my good friend Judie who showed me how to free up any lint that might get trapped under the screen protector (the back of a piece of Scotch tape can work wonders). 

Once the screen protector is in place, cover it with the cloth and gently slide the cardboard applicator across the surface.  This will help press out any air bubbles which may have appeared.  Frankly, however, I found the cardboard applicator to be just a little flimsy for this purpose. Some people use credit cards for this, which are slightly stiffer.  I found, however, that a Compact Flash card, which has significantly more girth worked the best.  It was like a zamboni for my screen.

One final note on the application of the screen protector for the Sandisk Sansa.  The screen protector covers the entire face of the device, not just the screen.  This is great because the finish on the face of the Sansa is easily scratched.  There are cutouts in the screen protector for the controls.  I did find, however, that the cutout for the power/menu button is on the wrong side.  This button is on the left side of the player, but the cutout was on the right side of the protector.  This was not a problem for me, since I slipped the whole thing right back into the Flexiskin case, but it could be a slight annoyance if you do not use this case.  Either way, it is pretty easy to cut the protector to fit more appropriately.

Once the ClearTouch protector has been installed, it does a fantastic job.  The screen on my Mogul is a fingerprint magnet.  Second after I clean it, the thing is a mess again, so I was anxious to get the screen protector in place.  Now, I can run my finger along the slightly textured surface of the ClearTouch without fear of leaving so much as a smudge.  It does make one wonder, however, why Pocket PC screen are not designed like this to begin with.  This surface even helps the screen to recognize and capture motions better, meaning that it will capture your handwriting even better than ever. 

The anti-glare surface is also perfect for outdoor use.  I frequently check email while outdoors and find myself squinting at the screen.  The anti-glare coating offers just enough protection that I can see the screen better in direct sunlight, but does not impair my use at other times.

Finally, if your screen protector does get smudged or dirty, it is easy to wash and reuse.  Simply remove the protector from the screen, wash it with warm water and a mild soap, and then flap it in the air to dry.  When it is mostly dry (according to Boxwave, a few droplets of water will not harm the screen, and will quickly evaporate) you can reapply it to your screen.

The Boxwave ClearTouch is a fantastic screen protector, which practically disappears once it has been applied.  I recommend to anyone…well…anyone with a screen.  Those of you with a touch screen can relate to any tales of excess smudging from fingerprints and dirt.  Those of you without a touchscreen can still share the dangers of a scratch or nick in the screen.  With the ClearTouch, when something tragic occurs to your screen, all you have to do is peel off the screen protector and apply a new one.  Much better than the costly and time consuming repair you would otherwise be facing.

Name: Boxwave ClearTouch Anti-Glare Screen Protector

Where to Buy: Boxwave

Price: $12.95 (single)

         $27.95 (3-pack)

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