Hi All, First regarding the carrying case: yes, although the PK is small enough to fit in some large pockets, it can be carried and used in its carrying case. When I purchased the PK, I didn't think to ask whether the case was just one for slipping the unit into while in a pocket or purse, or whether it was made to let one use the unit while wearing it on their shoulder. Although, I did hear someone on the list mention the shoulder strap for the case a few days before I got mine, so was hopeful. And, yes indeed, just like many other note takers, one can open the flap of the case and use the PK while standing. And, all of its ports and buttons are accessible, too. Now, the case doesn't seem to have any small pockets or the like for carrying CF cards and such, but that's not a real problem as one can put them almost anywhere.
As for the battery pack/charger: well, as already stated, it is kind of a big one, although I have seen plenty bigger. However, while it is kind of big in length, it is flatter than a lot of chargers, thus making it less bulky when carrying it while traveling. Also, for the US, anyway, the charger has the two pronged power cord that plugs into the electrical outlet, thus one doesn't have to go looking for an adapter when visiting somewhere where they don't have the plug in with the three holes. And, another plus is that the adapter has BNPK written in Braille on it, so one won't get it mixed up with others that they might use.
