Pong Research iPad case claims to boost wireless reception
Tired of weak 3G/4G and Wi-Fi signals? This case might help. It's also a multiconfiguration iPad stand and a radiation blocker.
What do you expect from your iPad case? Simple protection? Maybe a built-in stand for hands-free reading and movie watching?
Pong Research has you covered, and then some. The company's New iPad Case not only protects and props up your tablet, but also increases 3G and Wi-Fi signal strength and reduces radiation exposure.
If that sounds familiar, you might be thinking of the Pong Research iPhone case that debuted last fall. It, too, promised protection against RF energy emissions.
Of course, the debate rages on as to whether those emissions are harmful to humans. But here's the thing: the concern stems from holding a cell phone near your head for extended periods. I don't know many people who walk around with their iPads mashed against their ear.
Ah, but it's not uncommon for an iPad to spend considerable time in one's lap. And that's the second-to-last place you want to worry about radiation issues. So if your new iPad has 3G/4G, you might just want to err on the side of safety. According to Pong, the case reduces radiation exposure up to 90 percent below the international limit and 83 percent below the FCC-listed U.S. limit.
On the flip side, it magically increases your iPad's wireless acumen. Pong says you'll get a 36x boost in Wi-Fi reception and six times the Wi-Fi range. And 3G/4G models will enjoy a 10x increase in cellular signal strength and three times the transmission range. The company's own tests produced these results:
As for other features, the case combines a Smart Cover-style screen protector with a hard-plastic back that wraps around the corners and sides.
What's interesting about the cover is that it can fold into more-Origami-like configurations than Apple's, thus giving you more ways to prop up your iPad:
Now for the bad news: Pong's protections and enhancements will cost you. The New iPad Wi-Fi Case sells for $119.99; the New iPad Wi-Fi & 3G/4G Case runs $10 more. Worth it? If you've suffered with low-signal issues or you're concerned about cellular radiation, it might just be.