A. Finding Galaxy Tab 4 Accessories
This appendix offers options on how to accessorize your Galaxy Tab 4 with protective cases, screen protectors, chargers, and adapters. It also covers ways to maximize the longevity of your Galaxy Tab 4. Accessories covered in this appendix include:
There are many accessories available for the 7", 8", and 10.1" models of the Galaxy Tab 4, ranging from those that increase its usability to those that protect your Tab 4 or enhance its style. You can start on the Samsung website to explore which accessories are right for you, but don’t stop there. Many other companies create high-quality accessories for the Tab 4. Amazon.com is a great place to browse the many offerings for the Tab 4 and read product reviews from other buyers. Let’s take a look at a variety of accessories to see how they can benefit you.
Protective Cases
Perhaps the most fundamental duty you have as a Galaxy Tab 4 owner is to protect your Tab from becoming damaged. There are many cases on the market to choose from, and all provide some degree of protection for your Tab. It is important to note that as of this writing, Samsung does not offer cases for either of the Galaxy Tab 4 devices on their website. Fortunately, there are many third-party vendors you can browse on Amazon.com and other electronics stores that offer an assortment of options for your 7", 8", or 10.1" Tab 4.
Skins are stylish and provide a thin layer of protection around your Galaxy Tab 4, which can be effective for protecting your Tab against dust, nicks, and scratches. A skin by itself is less effective for absorbing shock, such as from a drop, than a padded case that remains on your Tab at all times.
Some padded cases, such as the Poetic SlimBook Leather Case for all three Tab 4 models as well as the Moko Slim-Fit Cover Case for the 8.0" and 10.1" Tab 4 models, also act as stands.
1. Fold the front cover of the case underneath the Tab 4.
2. Set the Tab down on a flat surface so the screen is in landscape orientation.
3. Angle the Galaxy Tab 4 display so that it is easy to view. This is a great orientation in which to watch videos or movies.
4. Set the Galaxy Tab 4 up in portrait orientation by positioning the folded cover behind it.
Screen Protectors
Most cases, skins, and pouches do not include a protective screen cover to keep your high-resolution screen from getting scratched, so you might have to purchase one separately. You can choose from a variety of protective screens; the most popular are clear (invisible), mirrored, and antiglare.
A clear protective screen performs the basic duty of preventing your Galaxy Tab’s glass screen from being scratched or collecting dust. A protective film offers three layers of protection after you apply one using its self-adhering surface, and it’s barely noticeable. Some screen protectors, such as the ArmorSuit Military Shield, even protect against moisture and self-heal (minor scratches to the shield’s surface repair themselves over time). To remove the protector, just peel off the film.
A mirrored screen does exactly what it says. When your Galaxy Tab 4 screen is off, the screen reflects as a mirror. When the Galaxy Tab 4 screen is on, the mirror goes away. This option not only protects your screen but also adds a stylish aesthetic to your Tab. One thing to keep in mind when choosing this option is the glare factor when using your Tab in the sun. A substantial glare can impede screen visibility.
Antiglare screen protectors make it easier for you to view your Galaxy Tab display indoors or outdoors in direct sunlight. While protecting your screen, they also help to reduce annoying surface glare caused by bright indoor lighting.
When you clean your screen, be sure to use a microfiber cloth. You can order one or more microfiber cloths online or pick them up at any office supply store. Then you can use the dry cloth to gently wipe smudges, dust, and lint that accumulate as you use the Tab 4. Never use paper towels because they can scratch your screen.
If you have bigger stains on your screen, such as food, you can dampen the cloth lightly and gently wipe the screen. Dry the screen with a dry microfiber cloth. (This is a good reason why you should get at least two cloths.) Never use window cleaners to clean the screens as the chemicals in those cleaners can permanently damage the screen.
Chargers and Adapters
The Galaxy Tab 4 was designed for a person who is on the go. Put your Tab 4 7.0" in your back pocket or tuck your 8.0" or 10.1" Tab under your arm and go. Many accessories are available to the power user, including additional power chargers and adapters. For example, you might want to charge your Galaxy Tab at the office as well as at home. Instead of remembering to transport a single cable, wall jack, or dock, why not invest in two? You can also have the convenience of charging your Galaxy Tab while in a car.
• Galaxy Tab USB Charging/Data Cable—You can use this data cable to connect your Tab to a PC, Mac, or Samsung charger. This offers a two-in-one solution for charging power and transferring data simultaneously via USB data sync cable. You can also use it to connect your Tab to your computer.
• Galaxy Tab 40-pin Vehicle Power Adapter with Detachable Cable—The Samsung Car Adapter, with data cable, enables you to charge your Galaxy Tab while in your car. You can plug it into your car’s 12-volt cigarette lighter socket. If you have to transfer data from your Galaxy Tab to your laptop, or vice versa, this car charger provides a detachable USB cable that enables you to connect to your laptop and make the transfer. You can also simultaneously charge your Galaxy Tab through the same connection to your laptop.
• Galaxy Tab 40-Pin Travel Adapter with Detachable Cable—Charge your Tab while on the go or at home with this adapter that plugs into any standard wall outlet. This adapter includes a USB port for universal charging and a 2A charger.