Tech From an E-booker’s Viewpoint

Before shopping on EBay consider getting an e-book device from other sources.  For example, if you already have a Smart Media Card (SMC), you can get an Ebookwise1150 directly from the site for only $109.95.  That’s a small investment and you’ll have some warranty protection and a new device.  I cruise EBay often and I am still baffled why people will sometimes pay in excess of a hundred dollars for used devices that are missing parts, software, or accessories.  On top of that, it may not even work. The only way this makes sense is if they already own the device and in desperate need for a back up, or have the skills to fix the device.  Get High Tech sells refurbished PDAs as well as replacement parts.  Currently they have the Tungsten T-3 on sale for $119.99.  I have bought a refurb from them with good results.  Your situation may not be the same.  They offer a very limited warranty so read the fine print.  Another place to look for your first device is within in your own environment.  Maybe you have an older tablet pc, or PDA.  I remember using my Casio Pocket Viewer as an e-book device before I got my first Rocket e-book reader. Sometimes friends and relatives may have similar stuff crammed in their closets and garages.  It may not pan out, but it’s worth a try.  Another device that people use for e-books are the iPod, Sony PSP, Nintendo DS and Gameboy.  A couple of years ago I hacked a Mattel Juice Box (Personal Media Player) into an e-book device.  It was my second hacking experience.  At the time the Juice Box was on clearance for about $12.00 at Target.  The thing is, shop around and be creative.  If you have other ideas for reading e-books let me know.