Martin Fields Protectors: INFO

[SWTrader]

Martin Fields Overlay Plus Screen Protector (iPod 5G Video) are available in the USA now and they are being shipped from within the USA so you don't have to wait for it to arrive from Singapore.

Here are some questions I had:

DOES IT COVER FRONT and BACK?
Yes, each set covers both sides.

DO I NEED TO BUY THE TWIN PACK TO COVER BOTH SIDES?
No, a standard set covers both sides.

WHERE CAN I GET THEM?
www.overlayplus.com

HOW MUCH DO THEY COST?
$12.99 or 24.99 for a twin pack.

OTHER INFO:
- They are washable
- People have said they are one of the most clear options


**** UPDATED with PHOTOS ****

iceman_dl6 posted these photos in the main iPod forum.

Front:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/iceman_dl6/7bbd2e29.jpg

Back
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/iceman_dl6/6ae6dd05.jpg


*** UPDATE Oct 30 after I got my MF ***

SHIPPING TIME?
Only took 3 days for me to get it via USPS 1st Class mail

DOES IT COVER BOTH SIDES?
Front = 100%
Sides = 0%
Back = 90% (its cover the flat portion of the chrome)

IS IT CLEAR?
Its crystal clear.

HOW DO I GET THE BACKING OFF?
This took me nearly 30 mins to figure out. Couldn't use finger nails or anything to remove the backing film. Had to bend the protector until the film started to peel off. Also the backing has the "Remove Backing" sticker on it.

*** Update Nov 5th MORE PHOTOS ***

Thanks to Insimbi for the photos, they look great!!

http://www.dtechutah.com/ipod/

[random person]

They are, unfortunately, a fingerprint magnet on the adhesive side. Washing removes them, but once you try to reapply, your fingerprints will get on it again. I had it on my Nano and removed it. It is crystal clear, though -- if you don't mind fingerprints!

[btvsrocks]

when it says reusable/washable:

http://www.doml.net/images/overlayreusable1.gif

Does that mean that the entire plastic sheet is washable and then you can reapply it afterwards, keeping its adhesiveness? Or does it just mean the side that doesn't have the adhesive is washable (which would be somewhat redundant)?

I've never bought these screen protector things for my iPods before, just used regular cases, but now that I'm getting a black 5g, I am more worried about scratches (not so much about fingerprints).

I used to have this weird plastic sticker thing that had adhesive on the back and could stick to everything. And then when it got dirty, you could wash it and stick it back up. I'm wondering if these overlays are the same thing.

And I second the request for photos of these with the 5G! I've only seen ones on the Nano.

[btvsrocks]

I also just noticed that the US site has their shipments coming from the US whereas Canada has the shipments coming from Singapore...wouldn't it make more sense to have it come from nearby US instead? Hmm.

[marlinspike]

I saw on the website that the whole thing is washable. You remove it by sticking scotch tape to it and pulling, and then you wash it, and then you reapply it apparently.

[ayn]

Yeah, it's washable and what not, but it's really not recommended to be washed... You would understand once U've tried to wash and re-apply one... :)

I messed up my first MF protector and emailed them, they kindly sent me a free replacement, in their email they mentioned this re: washing and reapplying:

Although the protector is washable, we do not recommend user to wash it as user tends to damage the protector during the washing process. We usually recommend them to use a scotch tape to remove the dust issue before considering to wash the protector.

This reminds me, I have the replacement MF for my Treo somewhere, I should put it up for sale... :) I installed the Boxwave anti-glare film before my replacement arrived (which took a good while)...

--Andrew

[iakonafuji]

I myself have a Martin Fields LCD protector on my K750i..and I swear, when I put it on, it was like a brand new LCD screen. It's just that clear and durable. I reapplied and rewashed a number of times, and no problmes whatsoever. Upon viewing this thread...I went to the site to buy it..only to find out the single packs were out of stock =T. However..me, being the impatient one that I am, i Just bought the 2-pack. When it ships..I'll let everyone know how it is. Also...if any one wants to buy the other one off me......shoot me a msg

[ayn]

hmm... I might be interested in the other one... :D

[SWTrader]

FYI

The MF Single Packs ($12.99) are back in stock.

[Insimbi]

So for those of you who are using these now, do they cover the entire face of the 5G iPod (kinda like the clear adhesive that comes on it already)? Does the click wheel function ok even though it's covered?

[Michael319]

IS it scratch resistant or the cover scratches, but not the ipod itself.

[iakonafuji]

I am unable to say whether it covers the whole thing..but as for scratch resistant. I swear, this thing is nearly indestructable. Just for reference...i just took a lead pencil and tried writing on my MF protector on my cell phone, and no scratches, buffs, scrapes, or anything. Just swirl marks that I easily wiped off with my finger. THese are REALLY worth it

[mpb2000]

I'd really like to know what the front piece covers. From the website, it looks like there are cutout pieces for the clickwheel and the center button, but I'd like to hear from someone who has one.

http://www.overlayplus.com/US/dis_product.asp?model=new_ipod&modeln=iPod%205G%20(Video)

[SWTrader]

I was hoping someone was going to post photos but I gave in and bought one when they came back in stock. It already shipped, so as soon as I get it I'll post photos for the rest of you.

[djcslice]

Originally posted by btvsrocks
I also just noticed that the US site has their shipments coming from the US whereas Canada has the shipments coming from Singapore...wouldn't it make more sense to have it come from nearby US instead? Hmm.

no, US has strict customs, its faster to ship directly to canada then ship to canda from the US the waiting time for customs to clear is outrageous.

[whatsername]

thanks for the link swtrader! i just bought one =) i don't know about you guys, but i haven't taken my new ipod out of my house yet and it's ALREADY scratched up a little =(

[Insimbi]

I just ordered the twin pack today. I'll let you guys know how it works out.

[btvsrocks]

Originally posted by djcslice
no, US has strict customs, its faster to ship directly to canada then ship to canda from the US the waiting time for customs to clear is outrageous.

Hmm interesting, I forgot about that aspect!

I guess it's probably best then to be shipped from Singapore...although my ebay orders from the States have had decent shipping times.

[saltwater]

Mine's completely scratched after two days of using it with the case it came with..... I sent it back today for an exchange and I won't use it until I find the perfect case, ughh.....

Definitely leave the plastic on it!

[pinoy]

can you exchange your ipod for a new one at a apple store if you bought it online?

[SWTrader]

iceman_dl6 posted these photos in the main iPod forum.

Front:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/iceman_dl6/7bbd2e29.jpg

Back
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/iceman_dl6/6ae6dd05.jpg

Only bad thing it doesn't cover the sides.

Here is the link to the forum post.

http://forums.ilounge.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=126097

[btvsrocks]

That looks pretty good

I was worried these batches would be really misproportioned after reading the "Martin Fields what a crock of #### " thread.

[nothingman]

after seeing photos of both the martin fields and the invisible shield applied- i ordered one of the martin fields. I think it looks cleaner and the application process doesn't use water... :p

[SWTrader]

Anyone know if the Martin Field is thin enough to use with a hard case? Would like to leave it on (at least the front).

[Insimbi]

Mine shipped today - hopefully I'll have it Mon or Tues next week. :)

[XxNarutoFanxX]

The Martin Fields screen protector is great, mine came today!!! It took me about 10 minutes to install(because it was so damn hard to take it off the plastic backing). I did mess up twice(the click wheel wasn't properly aligned) but I used tape to lift it back up and reposition it. I wish I can post pictures but my sister hid my camera. Ill do it later.

http://img497.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc017229js.jpg

[Tatsu]

I just installed mine and I must say this thing is super clear, it even reduced the appearance of all the fine scratches I had. Although My only beef is how in the world do you get the bubbles out of the side edgs. I have noticible air bubbles in the edges of the front protector around the click wheel, on the clicker, and on the edges of the back protector I keep pressing them down but they won't stay down, I've tried reapplying twice already, btw I can see them on those photos too, especially the back.

[Jack Hadley]

My only problem is it feels like stuff will get under the back beacuse it doesn't curve around at all. ONLY covers the flat part.

[SWTrader]

I ordered my Martin Fields Protectors and they only took 3 days to arrive via USPS first class mail!!!!

I was a little mad after first applying the protectors since they do not cover 100% of the back and 0% of the sides. But they do a great just on the front and the protector seems bullet proof. Most importantly they are CRYSTAL clear!! Also luck for me easy to re-apply if you make a mistake.

Glad I got the MF but still think I might get a hard case when they come out.

[Tatsu]

Originally posted by SWTrader
I ordered my Martin Fields Protectors and they only took 3 days to arrive via USPS first class mail!!!!

I was a little mad after first applying the protectors since they do not cover 100% of the back and 0% of the sides. But they do a great just on the front and the protector seems bullet proof. Most importantly they are CRYSTAL clear!! Also luck for me easy to re-apply if you make a mistake.

Glad I got the MF but still think I might get a hard case when they come out.

haha agreed, I ordered MF shields too they are really crystal clear I just don't like how some of my edges won't stay down, it's really an eyesore. But it seems like a really good protector and it doesn't take away that glassy finish. I'm considering vaja case but I dunno if I'm willing to dish out 75$ for it :confused:

[kschonha]

For those having problems getting the Martin Fields shield pieces for the iPod's touchpad and selection button to stick:


From: Chan Jing Ting [mailto:jingting@doml.com.sg]
Sent: Sunday, October 30, 2005 10:42 PM
To: ////////@////////.///
Cc: us-sales@overlayplus.com
Subject: Re: FWD: Defective Martin-Fields iPod Video Protector

Hi Sir,

Many thanks for contacting us.

Please be assured that the two cut out that you have received is working. The click-wheel protector and the enter button protector are actually optional for users. They can choose to apply or not to apply these protectors. We have noticed that due to its special material surface, it does not allow protector to stick well on it. Thus user might feel that the protector does not stick well on these areas. Therefore, it's common that user tends to feel that the two cut out fall/peel off easily.

Please contact me again should you require any further clarifications.
Thank You.

Regards,
Chan Jing Ting
DOML International Pte Ltd

[Tatsu]

So basically what he's saying is, if it doesn't stick don't use it...haha what an interesting solution.

[wuju]

I orderd one and waiting... but the thing that concerns me most reading the post is some area would stick and stay down. :(

[Tatsu]

well I just installe mine a few days ago, the good news is that with use, holding and actaully using the ipod, all the not sticking part eventaully did stick and it looks much better now than when I first installed it. It also helps to try and get all the dust out because even a small speck can make air bubbles but its really easy to take them out using the tape mathod demonstrated on their website.

[btvsrocks]

well that's good to hear ^^

I was worried about that mostly, more than the film for the clickwheel notsticking at all.

[Mr.Sneis]

just ordered mine!

[Chewie]

Originally posted by Mr.Sneis
just ordered mine!

As have I :)

[kondee]

Just got mine and love it.

Like everyone said I don't like the edge of MF not stick well on the back part of IPOD and not cover the side of IPOD so I put back IPOD in plastic bag after applie martin fields.

[tru5t]

ehm...? plastic bag...?

as in sandwich bags...?
or like a supermarket plastic bag...you know..."paper or plastic" type of bag...??

huh...i'm imagining how funny that would look if you're walking around with your ipod in a supermarket plastic bag...

btw, my 3M scotchgard shield has no problems whatsoever sticking....
and i'm not walking around with a plastic bag...

[kondee]

Originally posted by tru5t
ehm...? plastic bag...?

as in sandwich bags...?
or like a supermarket plastic bag...you know..."paper or plastic" type of bag...??

huh...i'm imagining how funny that would look if you're walking around with your ipod in a supermarket plastic bag...

btw, my 3M scotchgard shield has no problems whatsoever sticking....
and i'm not walking around with a plastic bag...

Let me rephrase then, the plastic bag I meant to be the plastic protection that come with IPOD in original box. Even in that cover all the time and in the ugly OEM case I still mangaed to get some scratches on both front and back of my IPOD :(

[tru5t]

hmm...no offense to you, but more to MF...
you paid and put on a 'scratch protector' but yet you're still getting scratches...

there's something wrong with that...

[zerock]

Originally posted by tru5t
hmm...no offense to you, but more to MF...
you paid and put on a 'scratch protector' but yet you're still getting scratches...

there's something wrong with that... i think he meant without MF, when he got his ipod, the scratches are caused by the ipod case thats comes with it

[JakeG88]

yeah I'm about to order one. My front is scratched up with the case that came with it... wish I could clean that up before I put on my MF protector.

[tru5t]

Originally posted by zerock
i think he meant without MF, when he got his ipod, the scratches are caused by the ipod case thats comes with it

oh my bad....
thanks for correcting me

[dylanny]

I went through three MF shields because they look the best.... but I found it REALLY difficult to get on. There are still some air bubbles (just not near the screen.
It took me TWENTY minutes to seperate it from the backing!

NS

[szsiddiq]

someone else asked this, but is it possible to slide ur iPod into a silicone case like the iSkin after applyin an MF?

[dylanny]

sure

[SWTrader]

One reason I like the MF is they are SO thin. Hoping to leave them on when I get a hard case. Its so clear why not, then I don't worry about scratches when it goes in and out of a hard case.

Now if Agent 18 would release thier case.

Originally posted by szsiddiq
someone else asked this, but is it possible to slide ur iPod into a silicone case like the iSkin after applyin an MF?

[SWTrader]

Updated the initial post with more photo links.

take a look.

[dylanny]

All the pictures look perfect....and the MF shield is really good, but I'm not axactly an ape and I COULD NOT Get mine on without air bubbles, no matter what I did. I mean, they're not terrible, andI'm glad it's on.... but the people posting picture must have surgical skills!

[SWTrader]

Here are some REALLY good tips from "esoin"

--------- TIPS ---------------


- Start with a very clean surface on the ipod and the MF screens.

- The scotch tape helps out a lot. I used it as temporary handles so I won't get too much finger-marks on the screen. You can put scotch tape on either side of the protective-screen to make little temp handles.

- Do the back first, a bit easier.

- The backing is a little hard to take off. I slightly bent/CURVED one corner (WITHOUT CREASING) and I began to see the two sides develop. Use a very bright light to see better. Use a knife or a fingernail to grab a hold of one side of the screen and begin to peel off a small corner. As soon as you get one small corner up, make a scotch tape handle so you won't have to worry about touching the screen too much.

- Before removing backing-tape off screen protecters , be sure to do a preliminary alignment to the back and front of the ipod with the protective screens. Visualize exactly how you will put it on. Note parellel lines from one edge of the protective-screen to the same edge on the actual ipod.

- Get a clean credit card to help smudge out air bubbles. Works very well.

- Use Clean Tools in general. Have a clean working space. It's very easy to attract dust from dirty tools or working-area. I heard doing it in a hot-steamy bathroom helps prevent dust. I have not tried this.

- I used one of those aerosol anti-dust cans you normally blow dust off computer components. Just an extra safety measure i took to remove any big dust balls.

- Using tape to remove dust works well, too. (refer to videos)

- Take your time and watch the VIDEOS carefully. You'll need real player. Notice not to ENTIRELY remove the back-film from the beginning, but to gradually remove the back-film as you use a credit-card to smudge out air bubbles on the side of the protective-screen you have already removed the back-tape off of. Work your way from one side of the ipod.

- When pulling the back-film off, I peeled off about 1/2" and creased the back-film down. This allowed me to better align the edges on a flatter base. (be-sure not to accidently creased the wrong side (the actual screen). That would suck. Then i used the credit-card to smudge out air-bubbles as I slowly removed the rest of the back-tape.

- Spend sometime working out the airbubbles even after the screen is 'fully' on.

- Tools I used: Scotch Tape, Clean Credit-Card, knife, bright lighting, Aerosol Air Can

[praetorian]

I'm considering getting the Martin Fields but I was wondering, is it film/sticker-like or is it like a thin piece of plastic?

I recently got a Boxwave Cleartouch and it's not film like I expecting (not necessarily a bad thing). It's more like a thin piece of plastic, but a lot thicker than film would be. It's pretty rigid and hold its shape. Here's a photo:

[kondee]

It is a tin piece of plastic like the one in your picture with can hold it shape. The front side will fit perfectly but the back side will show some gap between shield and IPOD around border.

[Neo18]

is this better then the power support crystal film???

[Vagabond251]

Made a similar post but if more people are looking here I just wanted to know if the Martin Fields screens help make current small scratches (that the iPod received from me looking at it) less visible/invisible.

Also, how are Martin Fields compared to the Crystal Film Cover Set? I have heard and seen good things about them but on these forums Martin Fields tend to be up top.