Let’s Dive into Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop
The Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is a portable and durable writing surface designed for individuals who need a reliable platform for note-taking, sketching, or form completion while on the move. Manufactured by Saunders Mfg, it offers a practical solution for professionals in fields like law enforcement, construction, and field research, as well as for students and anyone who requires a sturdy, mobile workspace. This isn’t just a clipboard; it’s designed to be a mini-office.
As someone who frequently works in the field, I needed a solution that would allow me to write and organize paperwork without the need for a desk. I was looking for something more substantial than a simple clipboard, something that could withstand the rigors of outdoor environments and provide a stable writing surface.
My initial experience with the Workmate Ii Desktop was positive; the build quality felt solid, and the size seemed perfect for carrying in my vehicle. The combination of blue and red coloring, while not particularly tactical, offered a bit of visual distinction. It seemed like a practical solution for keeping my documents organized and creating a usable workspace anywhere.
While there are other clipboards and portable writing surfaces on the market, such as the Rite in the Rain All-Weather Clipboard or the BCW Clipboard Folio, I chose the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop for its seemingly robust construction and straightforward design. I liked the simple, utilitarian appeal. The Workmate Ii Desktop prioritized function over fancy features, which resonated with my needs.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a well-built and functional tool, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. The promise of a durable, portable workspace was certainly appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop occurred during a series of site visits to construction zones. I needed to document observations and complete safety checklists, often while standing or sitting in my truck. The Workmate Ii Desktop proved immediately useful.
The weather conditions varied from sunny and dry to damp and slightly muddy. The Workmate Ii Desktop handled both conditions admirably, providing a stable writing surface even on uneven ground. The secure clip held my documents firmly in place.
The Workmate Ii Desktop was intuitive to use, requiring no real learning curve. I simply loaded my paperwork and started writing. The clip was easy to operate, and the writing surface was adequately smooth.
My first real surprise came when working in direct sunlight. The plastic reflected a fair amount of glare, which made it difficult to read what I was writing at times.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It has become a standard part of my field kit. It consistently delivers the stable writing platform I need.
Despite being subjected to bumps, scrapes, and exposure to various weather conditions, the Workmate Ii Desktop shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The plastic is surprisingly resilient. The clip remains strong and functional.
Cleaning and maintaining the Workmate Ii Desktop is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve even used mild detergents without any damage to the surface.
Compared to my previous attempts at using simple clipboards or writing on my lap, the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is a significant improvement. It provides a stable, organized workspace that enhances my efficiency and accuracy in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop
Specifications
- Color: BLUE/RED, Black – The Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is available in a combination of blue and red, or black. This color distinction could be helpful for quickly identifying it amongst other gear.
- Construction: Likely durable, high-impact plastic (though specific material details are not provided). This construction is intended to withstand rugged field use.
- Size: Dimensions are not explicitly listed, but the “desktop” moniker suggests it is large enough to accommodate standard letter-size paper. The size is a compromise between portability and usable workspace.
- Clip Mechanism: Heavy-duty clip designed to hold documents securely in place. A strong clip is essential for preventing paperwork from shifting or blowing away in windy conditions.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the Workmate Ii Desktop’s suitability for various tasks and environments. The color helps with visibility. The durable construction ensures longevity. The secure clip guarantees that documents remain organized and accessible.
Performance & Functionality
The Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop performs its job effectively by providing a stable and organized writing surface in various settings. It excels at holding documents securely and offering a consistent platform for writing, sketching, or completing forms. This reduces the need to find a table or other flat surface.
However, its performance could be improved with a non-glare surface to reduce eye strain in bright sunlight. The inclusion of internal storage would also enhance its functionality. These improvements could greatly increase its versatility.
Overall, it largely meets expectations for a basic portable writing solution, although the glare issue is a notable drawback. The lack of storage limits its organizational capabilities.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is decent, with the plastic feeling reasonably robust and capable of withstanding regular use. The weight is light enough for comfortable carrying. However, it may not be as rugged as higher-end models made from composite materials.
The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The clip is easy to operate. The smooth writing surface is practical for various tasks.
Durability & Maintenance
The Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is expected to last for several years with proper care, given its simple yet sturdy design. The plastic is resistant to cracking and breaking under normal use. The clip is designed for repeated opening and closing without losing its grip.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functional. Repairing it might be difficult, as there are few replaceable parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come standard with the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop, nor are there any readily available customization options. It is a basic, functional tool designed for a specific purpose. Further, the simple design does not lend itself to easy modification.
Due to its simplicity, it’s unlikely to be compatible with many accessories from other brands. However, users could potentially add their own modifications, such as adhesive pouches for storing pens or small tools. The smooth surface lends itself to customization with stickers or labels.
Pros and Cons of Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop
Pros
- Provides a stable and portable writing surface. It’s a reliable platform for note-taking in the field.
- Durable construction ensures longevity. It can withstand regular wear and tear.
- Easy to use with no learning curve. The intuitive design is perfect for on-the-go tasks.
- Lightweight design for comfortable carrying. It won’t weigh you down during long days in the field.
- Affordable price point. It offers excellent value for money.
Cons
- The glossy surface can produce glare in bright sunlight. This can make it difficult to read and write.
- Lacks internal storage for pens, paper, or other small items. This limits its organizational capabilities.
Who Should Buy Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop?
The Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is perfect for construction workers, field researchers, law enforcement officers, or anyone who frequently needs a portable writing surface in outdoor environments. It’s a valuable tool for anyone who requires a stable, organized workspace on the go.
Those who require advanced organizational features or integrated technology should skip this product. Individuals working primarily in indoor settings may not find its portability essential. People who need significant storage space should look at other options.
A must-have accessory would be a matte screen protector to mitigate glare. Additionally, a pen holder or small adhesive pouch could enhance its functionality.
Conclusion on Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop
The Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop is a reliable and affordable solution for creating a portable workspace. While it lacks advanced features like internal storage or a non-glare surface, it excels at providing a stable and durable writing platform in various environments. The rugged construction, combined with its ease of use, makes it a practical choice for anyone who needs to take notes, complete forms, or sketch ideas while on the move.
Given its functionality and durability, the price of $34.79 is justified. It offers a significant upgrade over simple clipboards.
I would personally recommend the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop to anyone seeking a dependable and budget-friendly portable writing solution. While it’s not perfect, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. If you need a durable, no-frills writing surface for fieldwork, this is a solid choice. Invest in the Saunders Mfg Saunders – Workmate Ii Desktop today and experience the convenience of having a portable workspace wherever you go.