Gadget Checklist for Red Zone Camps

Even with the implementation of the pilot security zoning programme across 14 selected SAF camps, there are still demand for non camera devices. If you are posted to a green zone camp, congratulations. You can bring in your camera enabled smart phone to the designated green zone area while in camp.

For those of you who are posted to a camp that belongs to the red zone, it does not mean you are stuck with a Nokia "army" phone for the rest of your NS days. I have compiled a list of gadgets that you should be able to bring into your camp together with the cost.

Smart Phones:
1. Blackberry Bold 9780 Non Cam

• Cost around $200 for a used set depending on the condition
• Better battery life compared to the 9360
• Wide range of accessories available in the market (housing, battery)
• Comes with non USB wall charger that can be brought into SAF camps

2. Blackberry Curve 9360 Non Cam

• Cost around $380 for a brand new set without contract (mobilesquare/j2mobile)
• Shorter battery life compared to the 9780
• Comes with wall charger that has USB head which is not allowed in SAF camps by default
• Supports wireless tethering with BIS

3. Huawei Honor Non Cam

• Cost around  $350 without contract (mobilesquare/j2mobile)
• Decent battery life with the stock Android 2.3
• Comes with wall charger that has USB head which is not allowed in SAF camps by default
• Requires MSD sticker
• Supports wireless tethering

4. iNO One 

• Cost $268 (Y2K Accessories Trading)
• Shorter battery life compared to the Honor
• Comes with wall charger that has USB head which is not allowed in SAF camps by default
• Supports wireless tethering

Entertainment Devices:
1. PSP

• Cost $189 for a brand new PSP 3000 without accessories (qisahn)
• Cost around $150 for a used PSP 2000/3000 with accessories depending on the condition

2. iPod Touch 3rd Generation

• Cost around $200 for the 32GB model depending on the condition

Note:  

• If you are considering to get a Blackberry, do read up on the FAQs regarding BIS.
• To be eligible for the MSD sticker, there are some specific requirements. Do check with your unit's S2 branch before making your purchase.