I forgot to mention that I’ve gotten a time and materials quote for a new screen of $350, which is WAY under the price for a refurbed unit from Apple. Of course, even with a new screen it will have “rough edges” (literally), but I think the keyboard may be less salvageable than the tablet itself. Right now, when I open the clamshell, tiny bits of sand (I don’t know if it’s silicon from the screen or from the interstate highway) are littered between the tablet and keyboard.

Somehow, I think Apple could use this in a testimonial ad regarding just how well built Apple’s “no moving parts” hardware is built. After all, the speed limit (which I was just barely obeying) where the iPad bid goodbye to my right front fender is 80 mph.