On our desk this week

Proporta PSP Gear

Proporta have been making top-notch handheld peripherals for a while now, focusing on cases for handhelds and mobile phones. Recently we've also seen iPod cases from them, and now they have a range of accessories for the PSP, a couple of which we're taking a look at here.

The coolest thing is obviously the snug aluminium PSP case. Rather than just choosing aluminium for the fact it's light, Proporta have also designed it in a way that keeps the case incredibly rigid, meaning that you can throw it around with impunity.

As you can see below, the case has cut-outs so that you can use the mains socket and the USB socket while it's still in the case. It also sports rubber bumpers so that the metal doesn't rub against whatever surface you happen to have it on, preserving both the case and the surface!


They also make these little cases for storing PSP games. Any PSP user will know the annoyance that Sony don't include slip cases for their games, relying on you taking the DVD-esque box everywhere. This is an easy way to store 4 games at a time. However, as great and high-quality as the actual PSP aluminium case is, this doesn't quite have the same feela bout it. The discs are rather difficult to pop in and out, and you've really got to take them all out just to get at one. Useful, but could be realised a little better.

One of the greatest things about the PSP is its screen, but it's also ripe for a big scratch - and one you've got one, you're in a world of pain. So, Proporta have extended their line of PDA screen protectors to include the PSP. The protector is basically a thin piece of plastic cut to the size of the PSP screen so that you can lay it over the top, and any scratches get absorbed by the protector. At the cost of a few quid, it's definitely cheaper than having the scratch in the screen.

The installation is simple - wipe down the screen with the included cloth, apply the plastic, smooth out the inevitable air bubbles and then play.

It doesn't dull the screen, meaning it won't detract from your performance. However, it does look a bit annoying to have the line of plastic around the screen detracting from the otherwise perfect aesthetics of your PSP. However, considering the potential dangers, we'd suggest that it's a worthwhile investment.

Amusing, Proporta Screen Protectors is the same acronym as PlayStation Portable.

Pretty Sweet Performance

As for the main box, we absolutely love it. It's available for around £25, and we think it's a total bargain at that price. It's rock solid, its foam lining will keep your PSP safe, and it really looks the business.

Name: PSP Aluminium Case, PSP Four UMD case, Clear Plastic Face Cover
Buy it at: Proporta
Cost: £25, £5, £6
Verdict: The aluminium case is simply stunning. If you have a PSP, you owe your little hunk of gaming gold a funky housing of safety silver. The UMD case is useful but needs a little bit of a makeover, and the screen protector is a safe buy.