Hi kleykenb, hi all;
My suggestions for testing would be, first, a rigorous use of all of the 800's features, testing the OS and included apps (with no third-party anything), the firmware, and the power usage/recharge elements of the unit for consistent and reliable performance.
Then I would then examine the hardware, to see if iRex has made the case stiff enough to protect the screen from flexing when in use by an average person, and if any shortcomings cause excessive use of anything--for example, of the USB/charging port--or any unusual measures (like
reset-reset-reset). (Although I, myself, prefer captive cables to circuit board mounted sockets, they are only
really necessary, IMHO, where a device needs to be plugged in while in use.)
Check out the battery, both for its availability out in the world, and any removal/replacement issues.
All testing should be, by intent, non-destructive. The flex test could be done by placing the device under test on a table, with a single coin under three corners, placing a one pound or 1-half kg weight on the unsupported corner. If pressing down on the elevated corner, until it touches the coin, lifts the weight, then the case should be considered to be sufficiently stiff. If the case flexes, and does not lift the weighted corner, then this case, like the DR1000's, is gaining it's strength from the screen instead of protecting it from flex, and prospective buyers should be warned to use a stiff protective case. If the screen cracks,
the world should be warned not to buy.
Finally, a teardown, with pictures, would be nice, but not necessary for most potential buyers.
I can't think of anything else that needs to be tested to make a buying recommendation... Anybody else?
Kent Walters