Handy Gadgets

If you want to experience premium high-speed wireless access you would probably have to procure one of the Cingular-Enabled ThinkPad Notebooks. Given the cost considerations of the above, there is the affordable (albeit not-so-mobile)) solution of enhancing your wireless signal with a Hawking USB Wireless-G Dish Adapter. ‘The HWU8DD is designed to connect your desktop computer or laptop easily to any Wireless-B or Wireless-G network via a USB connection. Hawking's award winning Hi-GainTM Antenna technology extends wireless connection distances by up to 300%. The HWU8DD is equipped with a new 8dBi Directional Dish antenna that provides more distance and better speeds than other wireless adapters on the market. The Hi-Gain Wireless-G Dish Adapter is the only wireless adapter to integrate the distance benefits of wireless Dish Technology with WiFi networking. The built-in LED signal strength indicators provide network signal information to pinpoint the strongest signal available within your area.’

Product Page Via: Coolest Gadgets; Red Ferret

Posted by Admin at 9:32 PM | Permalink

Installing multiroom-audio is a snap with the Marantz ZR6001SP receiver since you simply connect the main unit into your home theater system, take the client unit wherever you wish and plug it in and you have second zone sound. 'Over the past decade, the popularity of multiroom audio systems has continued to expand. Most systems are built around a home theater control center that's located in the living room and is capable of distributing audio to designated rooms where users can control volume level and select what they want to hear: satellite radio, CD, digital music server, and so forth. But the hardware, labor, and installation costs required for these whole-house audio solutions keep the potential market small compared to the wider home theater population.Marantz is hoping to change that with the ZR6001SP. The installation-free, distributed audio system is a two-part affair consisting of a ZR6001 A/V receiver and a ZC4001 audio client, the latter of which looks like a tabletop radio with built-in stereo speakers.'

Read: Marantz ZR6001SP Review - CNET

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Gizmag reports on the application of "night vision capability" to BMW's vehicles which is offered as an option to potential buyers. 'Thermal Imaging has long been used by the military to see in the dark in mission-critical situations, so it’s not surprising that it is being used in BMW’s new Night Vision driver assistance system. In using thermal imaging as the basis for the system, BMW engineers have opted for an approach that places greater focus on detecting people and animals at danger. Objects which radiate heat are shown particularly bright and are therefore drawn to the attention of the driver. In urban areas, lighting is usually sufficient for drivers to recognise dangers with the naked eye, but BMW Night Vision is most effective on country roads where pedestrians, cyclists and animals can be detected earlier. The system also has advantages on unlit streets or dark courtyards and poorly lit car parks.'

Read: BMW incorporates thermal imaging into newly available Night Vision driver assistance system. - Gizmag

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CNET reviews the slim, feature-rich, Samsung D900 slider phone. 'The Samsung D900 follows in the footsteps of some of Samsung's best-selling phones. The D500 was an outright hit and the D600 is still going strong, so the D900 has a strong pedigree. It is also part of Samsung's new breed of thin mobile phones, the Ultra Edition range. These are phones designed with pockets in mind, so unlike the D500 and D600, the D900 is very slim -- it immediately outdoes its predecessors with its size. It's certainly a feat of engineering, but this design flair is not present in every part of the phone. There are some ergonomic issues that we'd like to see resolved in the next generation.'

Read: Samsung D900 Sliderphone Review - CNET

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Every cook can govern, or, should that be, everyone can cook! For those persons whom would have felt tinges of anger whenever they were assailed with taunts as to their lack of culinary skills, especially related to preparing meals for themselves, the Beyond Microwave Oven available from Smart Home seems to the tool that could not have come a moment too soon. Of course there is an initial learning curve to conquer but the task of committing to memory a few presets from the over 4,000 UPC barcodes installed in the oven in no way approximates to the challenge of having to prepare a meal from "scratch". 'The Beyond Microwave Oven takes all the guesswork out of microwave cooking, letting you cook meals perfectly and evenly every time. Just scan the barcode on your food package, and the Beyond Microwave Oven does the rest! It's preprogrammed with over 4000 UPC barcodes, and it has a learn function that allows you to program new items as they hit the shelves. This attractive microwave oven features a stainless steel front and has an LCD screen with a bright blue backlight.' The Beyond Microwave Oven costs $150.

Product Page Via: Coolest Gadgets

Posted by Admin at 4:29 AM | Permalink

Just in case the Micro R/C Helicopter was too "trivial" for your tastes, the Radio-Control Indoor/Outdoor Helicopter available at the Discovery Channel Store maybe just the "thing" for you. There is however one minor consideration of $400 which you would have to part with for the upgraded copter. 'Flight enthusiasts take note – here at last is a radio-controlled helicopter that's stable enough to fly indoors and nimble enough to fly from room to room. This engineering marvel is based on a twin, counter-rotating, main rotor blade design that completely cancels out main-rotor torque – the powerful force that makes traditional helicopters so challenging to fly.'

Features:
• "Hobby-quality" radio-control helicopter
• Flies indoors or out
• Weighted Gyrofly stabilizing bars
• Four-channel proportional radio control (pitch, roll, yaw and throttle)
• Flight duration of eight to 10 minutes
• Rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
• Charger included
• Instructional CD
• 2 month manufacturer's warranty

Product Page Via: Coolest Gadgets

Posted by Admin at 11:42 PM | Permalink

CNET took the 2007 BMW 335i for a test drive and reported excellent drive performance from the marque. 'When the 2007 BMW 335i coupe arrives in showrooms on September 1, it will be the first gasoline-powered Bimmer in a generation to incorporate a turbocharger. With a sleek, newly designed body, the 300-horsepower 335i is the most powerful non-M3-series BMW coupe ever, and is also the most high-tech. Driving the sport-tuned 335i is a pleasure: bucket loads of torque in each gear are made usable by precise steering and magnetic handling. Our tester was equipped with the optional Sport package, which gave us sport seats with power-adjustable backrest width, 18-inch alloy wheels with W-rated run-flat tires, and an increased limited top speed of 155mph. Also available is the Cold Weather package, which adds a headlight cleaning system, heated front seats with expanded heating area, and a ski bag. (We venture to suggest, however, that those wishing to muck around in the new 3-series coupe in the snow wait for the launch of the all-wheel-drive new 328xi later this year.)'

Read: 2007 BMW 335i - CNET

Posted by Admin at 4:10 PM | Permalink

TsunamiDuit highlights a useful gadget which can be located in the interior of a vehicle in front of the driver and which presently displays information on European maps. 'Try new navigation device for your car, here’s the VDO Dayton MS5700. It is located on your rear view mirror, and boasts a 4″ screen at the left hand side that directs you to your destination without allowing your eyes to be taken off the road. Maps are displayed in a 4:3 ratio and it comes with an integrated speaker as well as an infrared eye that can be controlled via a remote control. Information containing all of Europe’s roads is stored on a 8.5GB DVD.'

Source: TsunamiDuit

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Gizmodo has posted some neat shots of the new Nintendo DS Lite consoles which become available to U.S consumers on 13th September.

Source: Gizmodo

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The PlayStation 3 console may not be available just yet but from the "news" surrounding this gadget it would seem there is going to be the possibility of players volunteering their idle machines to a very worthwhile project. 'Stanford and Sony have announced that PlayStation 3s will be able to participate in Cure@PS3, making gamers' consoles massively parallelized computing nodes for the Folding@Home project. What is Folding@home? Well, in a nutshell you can donate your processor's spare cycles (when it's not computing for you, that is) to the incredibly complex study of protein folding; possible uses for the data including curing many forms of cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and all sorts of other diseases.'

Source: Engadget

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The Nokia N73 Multimedia Phone has been reviewed over at Tech Digest. 'The first thing that you notice on picking up the N73 is the camera cover, which doesn't sit flush to the surface of the phone. However, whilst on first glance you might think it makes it look, well, odd, in fact it hides a key selling point of the handset - the camera. The camera itself is 3.2 megapixels, and launches as soon as you open the shutter - a revelation after being used to navigating various menus to get to a camera phone. You can adjust the resolution of the images, according to what you want to do with them, and how many pictures you want to be able to store on your phone. In a nice touch, they've added the size of print that each resolution will stretch too, which is exactly the kind of detail that your average user might not be sure of.'

Read: Review: Nokia N73 multimedia phone - Tech Digest

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If you are one those radio enthusiasts who cringe at the thought of having to miss a program for one reason or another, the VersaCorder 1/4 Speed Cassette Tape Player/Recorder available at C. Crane for $89.95 may offer a possible solution for recording favorite programming. 'When set to quarter speed, the VersaCorder records up to four hours of a radio show on each side of a regular 110 min. cassette tape (by using the six-day/event timer to eliminate commercial breaks between segments). Connect the VersaCorder to the earphone jack of any radio, set the timer, and press the record button, that’s it. You can listen to the built-in, high quality speaker while you record or you can turn the volume off for silent recording. You can also set the VersaCorder to normal speed to ensure high quality audio when recoding music or to simply play back regular speed cassette tapes.'

Source: C. Crane

Posted by Admin at 9:38 PM | Permalink

Gizmodo has reviewed the Belkin Skype WiFi phone which "is a phone that looks like your cell but works only with Skype and only over WiFi". 'The Skype phone looks just as good as all its press photos showing it with a black glossy front with a matted/rough back. However, just like with most products, the real thing rarely matches the product shots. The screen and top part of the front are nice and shiny, but the keys themselves are made of plastic and a bit less shiny. The rest of the material comprising the edge of the face and all of the back feels like a vinyl/leather/plastic mix, which gives it a rough texture. It actually feels pretty great, and gives a nice grip when you're making a call. It's nice to see a phone with only a minimum amount of brushed metal along the sides.'

Read: Exclusive Belkin WiFi Skype Phone Review - First Anywhere! - Gizmodo

Posted by Admin at 3:42 AM | Permalink

When is a pen not just a pen? When it is a Brando 512MB USB Flash Drive Laser Pen of course. This 3 in 1 gadget incorporates a pen, data storage and laser pointer all in one neat looking writing instrument.

Features:
• 512MB flash memory
• Mobile data storage and exchange
• Easy to view, edit, and copy files
• Shockproof and electromagnetic wave protection
• Convenient for data-carrying
• Lightweight and portable
• Low power consumption
• Long working life
• High durability
• USB powered
• Plug-and-play
• Support Windows 98/Me/2000/XP or Mac OS 9.X or above
• Dimension: 142x15x15mm

In this era where "convergence" seems to be the order of the day, it is indeed very welcomed to see important features being added to simple tools which can be carried around and operated with relative ease.

Read: Brando 512MB USB Flash Drive Laser Pen Review - The Gadgeteer Via: Coolest Gadgets

Posted by Admin at 12:59 AM | Permalink

Your interior decorations can be put off in you fail to esthetically integrate your lighting and your lighting fixtures in your overall house plan. Displaying naked incandescent lights especially in the areas of your home where you aspire to make the biggest impression is definitely a no-no. With the portable Glass Lamps from Besa Lighting you are provided with the flexibility of enhancing the decor of whichever room you happen to be entertaining at the particular point in time. 'The Sphere Series features an orb design in a wide range of colors and four different diameters, ranging from 8 inches to approximately 14 inches. Up to nine incomparable colors are offered, including: Black Stripes; Amber Cloud; Carrera; Cocoon; Habanero; Magma; Solare; and more. Showing off the soft curves of a tall vase, the 7703 Series offers illuminated accent pieces in 12 stunning colorations, such as Blue Cloud, Granite, Orca, Garnet, Fiero and others. Standing nearly 18 inches tall and approximately 6 inches in diameter, these lamps are perfect for floors or tabletops in nearly any design scheme.'

Read: Besa Lighting Unveils Striking Decorative Accent Glass Lamps - Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 2:37 PM | Permalink

Since I am not particularly enamored with the idea of having any type of headset covering my ears to listen to any of the new-media devices on the market, amplifiers such as the attractive Cain i2 vacuum tube 2.1 channel sound system would definitely command my attention. 'The amplifier also houses the sub-woofer which can be connected with two satellite speakers for 2.1 channel sound. The sub-woofer has an output of 12w and the satellite's pump out 6w x 2ch. The controls on the amplifier and remote control are styled like the famous iPod click wheel. The vacuum tube on the top of the sub-woofer has a cool blue light.'

Source: New Launches

Posted by Admin at 5:33 AM | Permalink

Left Lane News previews the features of the new 2007 Toyota Prius Touring hybrid vehicle. 'Toyota today unveiled the Prius Touring Edition, with added options for a more pleasant driving experience. In addition, the 2007 Prius gains standard driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags, which were previously optional. The new 2007 Prius Touring Edition provides "more spirited driving responses" due to its European-tuned suspension and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Prius Touring Edition is distinguished externally by the new wheels, a larger rear spoiler, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps and integrated fog lamps.'

Read: 2007 Toyota Prius Touring Edition - Left Lane News

Posted by Admin at 5:09 AM | Permalink

CNET has reviewed the new Archos 604 (30GB) Portable Media Player. ‘Designed to replace the AV500, the 604 is slightly bigger than the 30GB AV500 at 5.1 by 3.1 by 0.6 inches and 9.3 ounces, but it's more polished and has more screen real estate with less bezel (4.3 inches vs. 4 inches). It's quite a bit thinner and lighter than its chief competitor, the 0.87-inch, 10.5-ounce 30GB Cowon A2, which is more contoured and softer than the blocky 604. Though it's not as pocketable as the 4 by 3 by 0.5-inch 404, in addition to other video-playing MP3 players, its big screen and removable battery are more than enough reason to make it a mobile companion. The built-in kickstand is also a sweet little extra. We've read some comments about the design being "ugly" but in person, the device is pretty hot.’

Read: Archos 604 (30GB) - CNET

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Thinking of purchasing a a personal GPS navigational gadget? If you have contemplated the idea but would have preferred to hear from a previous user check out this report of a satisfied user of the TomTom One. ‘Basically, it uses the same software as the TomTom 910. That means it's one of the most flexible GPS interfaces out there, and one of the only ones easy enough to use while you're weaving through rushhour (Which puts it on par with Garmin). One thing I missed was text to speech, for reading off street names right before you have to turn. And for units of this size, only the twice-as-pricey Garmin Nuvi series has that feature. The TomTom ONE does have a great accessory for the car, though, that Garmin can't match.’

Source: Gizmodo

Posted by Admin at 9:31 PM | Permalink

Slashphone has previewed the new Sony Ericsson K800i which will be available to consumers in Asia from September. ‘The Sony Ericsson K800i is the first handsets to carry the Cyber-shot brand. The integrated 3.2 Megapixel digital camera comes with Autofocus, Xenon flash and BestPic. K800 and K790 combine advanced image capture capabilities with high speed data transfer, making them perfect tools for shooting and sharing high quality pictures and videos. K800 is a dual-mode UMTS/GPRS phone and the K790 is a Tri Band EDGE phone.’

Source: Slashphone

Posted by Admin at 9:05 PM | Permalink

CNET reviews the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder SE 4dr SUV 4WD and comments favorably on the overall performance of the marque. 'The 2006 Nissan Pathfinder LE is a workhorse dressed up in derby-day finery. With a powerful V-6 engine and a litany of off-road features, including automatic 4WD, the 4x4 Pathfinder gives drivers the flexibility of all-terrain driving. For a 7-seater, the Pathfinder displays admirable handling, but this maneuverability comes at the price of a couple of valuable inches of legroom in the second-row seats. Also, while its 270-horspower engine may eat up mountain trails, the Pathfinder's throttle response is too aggressive for comfortable stop-and-go driving. Inside, the Pathfinder is comfortable and well appointed, although its leather seats are about the only thing that could be called luxurious. Nissan's joystick-operated navigation system (a $1,800 option) may take some effort to operate, but it works very well when programmed: its text-to-voice capabilities are among the best we've seen for announcing street names and directions in a comprehensible way. Our test model came with Nissan's rear-seat entertainment system ($1,600) and Sirius Satellite Radio prep ($350). With a base price of $35,550 and a $605 destination charge, our tester tallied up to $40,145.'

Read: 2006 Nissan Pathfinder SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - CNET

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The BenQ-Siemens' EF81 clamshell tri-band GSM/3G phone has been reviewed by Sandra Vogel over at Trusted Reviews. 'Design-wise the EF81 is a little blocky for my taste, but the flip format means it is small for the pocket at 94mm tall, 51mm wide and 15.9mm deep. It also weighs an acceptable 110g. If you are immediately thinking of it as a possible rival to Motorola’s V3x then a quick specs comparison in this department reveals that this is a smaller and lighter handset: the V3x’s dimensions are 99mm x 53mm x 20mm and 130g. The outer display measures 1.3in diagonal and unusually offers a plentiful 262,000 colours in its 120 x 160 pixels. Compared to some others it is stunning. Beneath it are three buttons – a long rocker and two shorter buttons. Between them they allow you to use the camera for shooting stills and video, play music and take voice calls in handsfree mode. The rightmost of them allows you to lock and unlock all the front buttons. The loudspeaker is disguised in two long horizontal grilles towards the bottom of the front fascia.'

Read: BenQ-Siemens EF81 - Trusted Reviews

Posted by Admin at 8:03 PM | Permalink

Shiny Shiny has posted an entertaining and enlightning review of the educational Smart Globe from Oregon Scientific. 'There was a time when I didn't care about what the capital of Tunisia was (it's Tunis). That time was about 11 am yesterday morning, at which time I discovered the Smart Globe from Oregon Scientific. Now my life is marked clearly as Pre-Globe and Post-Globe. The Smart Globe is an interactive globe which uses a smartpen to pinpoint areas of the world, after which it can give you all manners of information, from exchange rates to flying times. Did you know that Russia celebrates Christmas twice a year? Nope. Me neither.'

Read: Review: Oregon Scientific Smart Globe: not just for geographers. Shiny Shiny

Posted by Admin at 2:49 PM | Permalink

The hand-cranked versions of radios and flashlights seems to be the obvious choices we can readily identify as "emergency" alternatives to their conventionally powered equivalents. It is therefore nice to see the Cell Phone-Charging Hand-Crank Radio integrating the capability to charge your cell as well as "throwing in" a led flashlight for good measure. 'This hand-crank radio ensures youll never be caught without three important foul-weather emergency tools: AM/FM/weather band radio, a flashlight, and a cell phone charger. Cranking the handle recharges the internal hand crank NiMH battery for radio use and lightand cell phones can be recharged simultaneously with the included set of five adapters.'

Product Page Via; Coolest Gadgets

Posted by Admin at 4:41 PM | Permalink

Wired News provides some exciting shots of the Porsche 911 Turbo. 'The 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo's exterior remains faithful to its predecessor. Inside, though, a 3.6-liter variable geometry turbocharged engine can muster a maximum horsepower of 480 and 457 pound feet of torque, which represents an extra 65 horsepower and 45 pound-feet of torque compared to the fifth-generation Porsche 911 Turbo. What this means when it comes to driving is a top speed of 193-mph and zero-to-60 mph acceleration in less than four seconds.'

Source: Wired News

Posted by Admin at 3:19 PM | Permalink

Mobile Whack highlights the "first official images" of Samsung SGH-T619 and SPH-M500 handsets. 'The SGH-T619 is a quad-band GSM/EDGE phone, while the SPH-M500 supports CDMA/EV-DO. The handsets look like they were separated at birth and sport almost identical features. These features include clamshell design, internal antenna, two color displays, 1.3-megapixel camera, Bluetooth, and slot for microSD cards. No word on pricing or availability but we will keep you posted as and when more info is available.'

Sources: Mobile Whack; Phone Arena

Posted by Admin at 12:23 AM | Permalink

CNET reviews LG's CU500 which is "the first carrier-offered HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) phone in North America". 'It's tempting to call the LG CU500 yet another Razr clone. After all, the Samsung MM-A900 and the Sanyo Katana have both made attempts at the Razr form factor, and the LG CU500 looks dangerously similar. But the clone moniker would be a disservice, as the LG CU500 is so much more than that. It's the first HSDPA phone offered by a North American carrier, which means it is the first handset that can reach connection speeds up to 1.8Mbps. Cingular has capitalized on the high speeds by packing in Cingular Video, its video streaming service, and Cingular Music, a music service portal. Together with a 1.3-megapixel camera, an audio player, a speakerphone, and more, we think the LG CU500 is definitely one of Cingular's flagship phones. The LG CU500 retails for $179.99, but you can get it for $79.99 after discounts and with a two-year service agreement.'

Read: LG CU500Review - CNET

Posted by Admin at 9:54 AM | Permalink

Technology Review examines one option for providing Ethernet connectivity to computers in your home. 'Wireless networking equipment is cheap, convenient and widespread. If you want to connect computers in your home, is it really worth doing it with wires? The answer, surprisingly, is yes. And you don't need to pull the wires through the house either: they're already there. I'm talking about turning the electrical wiring into a computer network. The technology has been around for several years but has never really taken off, because the wireless technology known as Wi-Fi allows for more mobility and greater speeds. Netgear Inc.'s new HDX101 Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter (suggested price $250) closes that speed gap and provides some advantages that make it a worthy complement to Wi-Fi, if perhaps not a replacement.'

Read: Review: Netgear's Adapter Turns House Electrical Wires into Data Network - Technology Review

Posted by Admin at 9:08 AM | Permalink

The Dovo Nose Hair Trimmer on sale over at C. Crane for $19.95 is just the accessory you may need to keep any protruding hair growths in check. ‘Precision and sharpness are essential for nose hair trimmers, and this one always keeps a perfectly fine edge. Great for trimming around the ears, too, and it does the job without batteries. Weight: 1.4 oz. Size: 2.3" L x 0.4" Dia.’

C.Crane Product Page

Posted by Admin at 1:57 AM | Permalink

The "Bumpbrella concept" of an umbrella is a worthwhile idea since there will always be instances of persons "bumping" into each other with their umbrellas opened. The Bumpbrella seems to offer users a chance to smile when these incidents occur rather than evoke hostile reactions when pricked by exposed "metal ribs" of traditional black brollies. 'The Bumpbrella is an inflatable umbrella that utilizes a bicycle pump mechanism in the center for the arm. By pumping, it inflates into an umbrella that one can see through, thereby protecting you against the elements and from getting poked by another umbrella. By turning the handle backwards, it would deflate the umbrella. The markings on the umbrella are illumined by three super-bright LEDs, which creates a very unique look.'

Source: RKS Design

Posted by Admin at 1:29 PM | Permalink

The Internet Phone Wizard from Actiontec Electronics is designed to allow users to operate their landline handset as a VoiP handset with the simultaneous use for landline calls. 'The Internet Phone Wizard has been designed with the novice in mind. It's got a quick start guide which includes such instructions as "At the 'congratulations' screen click Finish" along with a photo of what this screen might look like. As basic as this is, other manufacturers would do well to take a leaf out of Actiontec's book. There's very little chance to get confused, or go wrong (it even indicates how to turn over the page to find the next instruction).'

Read: Internet Phone Wizard Review - Tech Digest

Posted by Admin at 3:34 PM | Permalink

The LG U400 music phone is a slider phone with an MP3 player, has 3G with video calling, stereo Bluetooth, stereo speakers, a 2-megapixel camera and a nice scroll wheel. 'Because the MP3 controls are on the front of the handset, the U400 successfully stakes its claim as a true phone/MP3 hybrid. It's got an internal memory of 70MB, and a MiniSD slot which can expend it by a further 1GB. In total this will hold about 500 songs, which doesn't make it the biggest out there, but will be adequate for many people out there. It's bundled with a 512MB memory card to get you started. Because it's exclusive to 3, it's integrated with the 3 player - their MP3 interface. This allows you to view your library to include the songs you've uploaded onto your phone, as well as those you've bought and crucially, those that 3 have available for you to buy. This makes it really easy for you to spend your gas bill money on tracks at 99p a pop.'

Read: LG U400 Music Phone Review - Tech Digest

Posted by Admin at 2:59 PM | Permalink

Shiny Shiny has reviewed the Archos AV700TV and commented favorably on the "digital television portable". 'The AV700 TV's main reason for existence is the ability to watch digital television on the move. To support this, there's a 7" screen, which dominates the handset. This is an ample size for watching TV comfortably, particularly since there's a fold out support stand which means you don't have to keep it clutched in your hands. Finding the channels is also a simple matter of connecting the antennas to the unit and scanning for channels - with the right orientation of the aerials you can pick up a full complement of fifty plus digital channels. I was treated to "I'm a self-confessed Queen of Tarts" Trisha episode in a matter of seconds, and once you're there, it's just one button to activate the record function. Perfect for reliving the moment her DNA results/true sexuality/actual weight is revealed. Because it's a digital recording, it's stored in an intelligent fashion, with the name of the programme as the file name. The digital tuner also means that you get the familiar 'now and next' displayed at the bottom of the screen, although no further than this, which Sky users might miss. '

Read: Archos AV700TV Review - Shiny Shiny

Posted by Admin at 2:15 PM | Permalink

Computers are generating even more heat nowadays as the processing power improves by leaps and bounds thus the issue of just how to keep the machines cooled (especially those which handle the resource-hungry gaming applications) has been sparking some interest of late. The Flowserve Guardian 3000 pump is one solution designed for use in high-end consumer personal computers. 'Measuring approximately 90 mm (3.54 in) in length and 36 mm (1.42 in) in diameter, the Guardian 3000 is the smallest pump ever developed by Flowserve. While the largest pump ever built by Flowserve has an impeller diameter of 4.24 m (13.9 ft) and would fill an Olympic size swimming pool in 25 seconds, the Guardian 3000 has an impeller diameter of less than an inch and would take nearly three minutes to fill a kitchen sink. The Guardian 3000 addresses one of the most daunting challenges facing computer and processor manufacturers today - how to cool computer electronic components within limited dimensional, cost and power budgets. An overhung centrifugal, nonmetallic, magnetic-drive, seal-less pump, the Guardian 3000 uses patented motor technology and innovative design to achieve the small form factor necessary to fit microcomputer and other electronic package applications.'

Read: Miniature Pump keeps computer electronics cool. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 4:26 AM | Permalink

Tech Digest reports on a new "lighted Pedal" for bicycles which provides information for the first time on "cyclists distance, direction and relative position" especially to motorized traffic. 'Pedalites are bicycle pedals that produce powerful, pulsed illumination from energy expended by your pedaling - so no batteries. The flashing lights can be seen over half a mile away at night - and unlike the old dynamo lights, these continue to work even when your bike has come to a halt - flashing for up to 6 minutes after just 2 minutes’ pedaling, which is good when you;re at junctions and traffic lights. The Pedalites offer 360-degree illumination, ensuring you are seen by all the traffic around you, as well as pedestrians and other cyclists.'

Read: Pedalite - battery free bicycle illumination - Tech Digest

Posted by Admin at 1:19 AM | Permalink

CNET previews the latest handy multimedia gadget from Sony geared toward the youth market. 'Remember a day when the most techie communication device a child could have was a walkie-talkie, or am I dating myself here? From preteens to college students, the younger generation is a growing and important segment for the consumer electronics market, as evidenced by the launch of youth-oriented devices and services, such as the Helio Kickflip and Boost Mobile. Well, Sony wants a piece of that pie and today announced a new personal communication gadget aimed solely at 18- to 22-year-olds, called the Sony Mylo. Mylo, which stands for "my life online," is for those who love to stay in touch with friends via instant messaging and also want to have some fun on the side. It sits somewhere between a souped-up AT&T Ogo and a scaled-down T-Mobile Sidekick 3, but one thing we want to make clear from the get-go is that it's not a cell phone. Instead, it's equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and comes with preinstalled popular instant-messaging clients, VoIP capabilities, a Web browser, and multimedia features. We had the opportunity to check out some working preproduction units, so read on for our impressions.'

Read: Sony Mylo - CNET

Posted by Admin at 2:56 PM | Permalink

CNET has reviewed the "beautifully designed " LG VX8500 Chocolate Phone. 'It's not uncommon for the introduction of a new cell phone to be preceded by a ton of hype. Take for instance, the LG VX85000. Otherwise known as the Chocolate, the VX8500 became the talk of the mobile world after its stateside debut last April at the annual CTIA show. Rumors flew back and forth regarding when we'd see it with a U.S. carrier, and finally this week, after being available in Europe and Asia for several months, the Chocolate has landed at Verizon Wireless. After so much speculation, we were eager to find out just what type of chocolate the Chocolate really is. Is it Hershey's or Godiva? The answer seems to lie somewhere in between. By all means, it's beautiful and offers decent call quality, but the keys and controls take some getting used to. And though it has stereo Bluetooth, a megapixel camera, a digital music player, and support for Verizon's 3G video and music services, it doesn't do much that other cell phones don't do already. And more to the point, it lacks a speakerphone, something even the most basic cell phones offer. On the upside, the Chocolate is fairly priced at $149 with service'

Read: LG VX8500 Chocolate Phone - CNET

Posted by Admin at 10:35 AM | Permalink

If you need to be constantly informed on the financials of the stock market the Ambient Orb from C. Crane may be the tool you need to complement your collection of news sources. 'Check stock market performance instantly! The impressive Ambient Orb monitors the stock market with the simple, non-intrusive use of color. When the market is up, the orb will glow green, and when it shifts downward, the orb will turn red. The free basic service lets you monitor your favorite stock index. With an optional subscription service, you can monitor virtually anything from news, to local weather to remote sailing conditions. Frosted glass. Weight: 1 lb. Size: 4" H x 4.5" Dia.'

C. Crane Product Page

Posted by Admin at 4:11 AM | Permalink

Gizmag reports on the affordable internet/camera surveillance options available from TrendNet. 'Video surveillance was once a costly business and solely the domain of robust, well-funded businesses but the march of progress continues to lower costs of almost everything dealing in zeroes and ones and we recently marveled at the US$300 wireless Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) IP camera from Linksys. Now TRENDnet has unveiled the US$400 wired (TV-IP301) and US$500 wireless (TV-IP301W) Advanced Day/Night Internet Camera Servers. Equipped with an infrared (IR) lens and built-in microphone, the new products facilitate remote security monitoring 24 hours a day for small businesses via the Internet.'

Read: Day/Night Internet camera servers offer 24-Hour surveillance for SMEs - GizMag

Posted by Admin at 4:54 AM | Permalink

Gizmodo reports on the new Samsung cellphones which will soon be available with T Mobile. 'Two more anorexic phones are heading to the T-Mob, as the FCC has just cleared them for departure. The Samsung T629 is a slider with a microSD slot and 70MB of internal storage. It has a 2-megapixel camera and probably won't have TV-out capabilities like the Samsung D840 it's based off of, seeing as T-Mobile has nothing going in the mobile TV area.'

Source: Gizmodo

Posted by Admin at 3:52 AM | Permalink

Engadget has posted some shots of the lastest BlackBerry multimedia communication device. 'The stealthy BlackBerry Stealth slinks behind the scenes no more. It's the BlackBerry 8100 and it's got a camera, microSD slot, EDGE data, and media playback functionality -- just like we'd expected (so where's the damn WiFi?). This should be due in November on Cingular (no guarantees), but something tells us to expect an even earlier launch on T-Mo. Perhaps it's the T-Mo branding. We can't tell you much else as of right now, but big ups to Random Asian Dude for the hookup.'

Read: BlackBerry 8100 cameraphone! Stealth revealed! - Engadget

Posted by Admin at 12:30 AM | Permalink

Even though the article on the 'Nuheat Mat' at Popular Mechanics was originally published a couple years ago, the "warm floor" solution from the Canadian manufacturer still seems a very useful option for concrete floors in the home. 'There's nothing like an icy floor to get your attention first thing in the morning. Actually, the floor isn't that cold, it's just that it is often as much as 30° F cooler than your body temperature. People have complained about it for years--hence the need for slippers, rugs and carpet. But ceramic tile floors are particularly notorious for feeling cold and uncomfortable. Especially in bathrooms. Canadian manufacturer NuHeat has taken on the floor-warming challenge directly with a 1/8-in.-thick electric heating mat that is embedded in thin-set grout under the tiles. The mats run on 110-volt or 220-volt power (depending on which model you choose) and are controlled by a programmable wall-mounted thermostat. They are available in 60 standard sizes as well as custom sizes'

Source: Popular Mechanics Nu Heat Product Page

Posted by Admin at 2:31 PM | Permalink

Tech digest reviews the sleek looking Mustek MP100 portable DVD player. 'As someone who is rarely without my laptop computer, I thought I'd be unlikely to invest in a standalone portable DVD player. However, I found myself really looking forward to reviewing this unit. The specs sound great on paper, and generally the unit doesn't disappoint. The whole unit is compact and feels pretty rugged, without being bulky. It's pretty light to carry around and looks like it will withstand the odd knock or bump. It comes complete with a black carrying case which, whilst not particularly well padded, keeps the player and its accessories neat when travelling, and there's also room in the bag for additional items (DVDs for example).'

Read: Review: Mustek MP100 portable DVD player - Tech Digest

Posted by Admin at 5:07 AM | Permalink

Shiny Shiny previews the features of the soon-to-be-launched Belkin Skype-based phone that works independent of your computer. 'You can connect to a wireless network anywhere - including hotspots when you're out and about - to make and receive free calls over the internet (or cheap calls to landlines and mobiles). The Skype software is already built into the handset, so you don't need to faff about downloading it, and it comes with WPA and WPA2 security to keep you safe from evil web hacker types.'

Read: Belkin's Skype Phone - works without a PC - Shiny Shiny

Posted by Admin at 3:57 AM | Permalink

Scott Clark writing over at EverythingUSB reviews the feature-packed iriver E10 6GB MP3layer. 'The E10's design departs from the funkier designs of previous iriver models to return to the ergonomically friendly and easy to carry rectangular form factor. Underneath the vibrant 128x128 color display are four oversized arrow buttons for navigation and playback control, as well as two clear jewel buttons for power and the smart key commonly used functions. Lining up with the thumb on the right side is the volume button, and on the left next to where your index finger is the hold switch. The fact that the buttons line up so well with your natural hand positioning (for righties anyway) shows iriver's attention to detail, and should help with day to day use.'

Read: iriver E10 6GB Review - EverythingUSB

Posted by Admin at 1:13 AM | Permalink

Andrew Liszewski of Oh Gizmo reviews a very neat looking travel bag designed for carrying around your laptop. 'In this review I’ll be taking a look at Tom Bihn’s Empire Builder coupled with a Brain Cell & Soft Cell. For those seeking a Reader’s Digest-esque condensed version of my review the Empire Builder is probably one of the best, if not the best solution for those seeking a more professional looking means to haul around their laptop and assorted gear. While courier bags have become increasingly popular they’re not always suitable for all work environments and more often than not do not protect a laptop as well as some people would like. Tom Bihn’s Empire Builder is an extremely well constructed bag and it’s obvious the company put a lot of thought into its design. When coupled with one of the company’s Brain Cells or Soft Cells I simply do not know of a better way to safely transport a laptop short of renting a tank or other heavily armored vehicle.'

Read: OhGizmo Review: Tom Bihn Empire Builder With Brain Cell & Soft Cell

Posted by Admin at 12:45 AM | Permalink

With the advent of the new multi-purpose Merriam-Webster MWD-480 Dictionary and MP3 Player we can truly say the high-tech dictionary is in and no doubt the printed equivalent may eventually be a "thing" of the past. 'The Merriam-Webster Dictionary & MP3 Player from Franklin has 274,000 definitions in its database and includes some great functions which will help in improving an individual’s vocabulary. There are features like Phonetic Spell Correction, a Confusables(R) function which tells you the difference between similar sounding words, and a Crossword Puzzle Solve feature too! Users will also dig the onboard five games, and a local/world clock. The MWD-480 has a memory card slot and is currently available for $79.99.'

Dictionary:
Phonetic spell correction allows you to enter a word the way it sounds, and your dictionary automatically provides alternatives for misspelled words - type in "nolige" and see "knowledge."
Immediate access to 274,000 full definitions.
Confusables® function alerts you when one word might be confused with another (their vs. there vs. they're) by providing spellings and meanings.

MP3 Player:
Internal Memory* plus SD Expansion Slot for additional memory
USB Connection
Plays songs, audio books, and podcasts

Product Page Via Mobile Whack

Posted by Admin at 10:39 AM | Permalink

Michelle Krebs writing over at The New York Times shares her impressions of the 2007 Dodge Caliber tripmobile. 'The Caliber has some cool features that make it a pleasant tripmobile: a glovebox rack that keeps water bottles chilled and rear-hatch speakers that flip down to provide entertainment for tailgate parties, to name two. On our journey, the audio system, available with a jack for an iPod or MP3 player — Sirius Satellite Radio is offered, too — keeps the music playing. Optional heated front seats, unusual in the price class, warm the front occupants. A cellphone holder is built into the lid of the console, the cargo floor can be removed and hosed down and a self-charging removable flashlight is a handy detail.'

Read: 2007 Dodge Caliber: More Bang for the Buck - New York Time

Posted by Admin at 1:44 PM | Permalink

Flashlight News reports on the announcement of a new Emergency Tool from Safety Technology which is "a flashlight, warning light, seat belt cutter, and glass hammer" and intended to be kept in your vehicle. 'In an emergency, time is the most important commodity. The Auto Emergency Tool, released today by Safety Technology, is designed to save you critical seconds when they count by combining four lifesaving elements in a savvy, practical design that readily attaches itself to the carpet in your vehicle. Today's auto's are filled with electronics, and you can become trapped in your car if the engine is not running.'

Read: 4 in 1 Emergency Tool Sends Signals And Saves Lives - Flashlight News

Posted by Admin at 4:42 AM | Permalink

The Hearthfalls plug-in hearths, weighing more than 150 pounds sends "recycled water cascading in front of your fire, log or gas". The hearths can also be used to burn a real wood fire while the water is falling in front. The units can either be installed as stand alone hearths or can be retro-fitted over existing fireplaces. Once installed you would experience "the same ambience of a fire plus the sound of a stream". The Hearthfalls can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer and are retailed at $2000 for the basic models.

Sources: Tech Blog : Oh Gizmo

Posted by Admin at 9:23 PM | Permalink

There is absolutely no way the rear-view mirror positioned directly in front of the driver of a vehicle could have escaped an upgrade in the technological advance that has touched almost every other element of the automobile in the recent past. Mobile Whack reports on some neat innovations Chinese manufacturer, Shining Elite, has added to this very important automotive accessory. 'The VM-5602 is not your average rear-view mirror: the integrated audio player not only takes in SD memory cards and USB drives, but can also be connected to your iPod or other MP3 player via the auxiliary input. The device has just got FCC approval, so it may head to the US and other countries soon.'

Read: Shining Elite VM-5602 Rear-View Mirror Wireless Player - Mobile Whack

Posted by Admin at 1:20 AM | Permalink

Creative has announced the release of its new ZEN Neeon 2 MP3 Player which should hit the stores sometime later this month. 'Creative Technology Ltd. (NASDAQ: CREAF), a worldwide leader in digital entertainment products, today introduced the new ZEN™ Neeon 2, a sleek MP3 player that lets users have their music, photos, video and FM radio at their fingertips. Slim and compact, the elegant ZEN Neeon 2 also allows fashionable MP3 users to express themselves by personalising their players through the application of a wide range of Creative Stik-On™ skins that reflect their personalities, lifestyle and mood. Measuring just 81mm x 42mm x 12.5mm and weighing only 50g, this miniature wonder packs in a full range of features that include either 4GB, 2GB or 1GB of storage capacities, built-in FM tuner, voice recorder, line in recording and a 1.5" colour display for users to view both photos and videos.

The ZEN Neeon 2, with an elegant black piano surface finish, comes in 5 unique brushed-metal backplate colours. Launching together with the player are new selections of Creative Stik-On skins, each set featuring 4 characters that represent different music genres. Each product comes with a free Creative Stik-On skin as well. These fun and funky Creative Stik-On skins allow users to embellish, personify and more importantly express themselves through their digital music players.'

Read: Creative Worldwide Press Release

Posted by Admin at 2:56 PM | Permalink

James Kim previews the Sony NW-E005 MP3 player which is scheduled to be available in August. 'The NW-E000 series is available in a multitude of colors and capacities (2GB NW-E005 in green, black, or violet; 1GB NW-E003 in silver or pink; and 512MB NW-E002 in blue) and includes an FM radio and a simple OLED display. It measures 3.1 by 1 by .56 inches and weighs 0.9 ounce.Outside of the typically attractive Sony design, the colorful NW-E000 series has a competitive price tag and joins the iPod Shuffle and Samsung YP-U2 on the current built-in USB A-list. Like the flagship NW-A1200, the little players are natively compatible with MP3, ATRAC3 (plus), and most interestingly, unprotected WMA and AAC files. Sony seems to think opening up format compatibility will make users forget that it once didn't play nice with MP3.'

Read: Sony NW-E005 (2GB, black) Preview - CNET

Posted by Admin at 2:48 PM | Permalink

Mark Wilson previews a handy, neat looking DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) radio over at Stuff Magazine. 'The Type-R is packed with touches that are clearly the work of DAB obsessives. We’ve been suckers for the touch-sensitive control system since LG’s Chocolate phone, and this is the first digital radio to feature one. Running your finger up and down the red LED line will change the volume, and there’s a proximity sensor that will light up the display when it senses your hand approaching. Call us fickle, but these touches are important.The aesthetic details don’t end there. Its sides are made from walnut, the rear panel features hand embossed leather and the enamel badge is made by the same company that produces badges for Aston Martin and Bentley.'

Read: World’s best DAB radio? - Stuff Magazine

Posted by Admin at 2:34 PM | Permalink

The new Rubbermaid Compact Housekeeping Carts are definitely pleasing to the eye and I am sure would lend some excitement to the otherwise challenging tasks of its users. 'Once again setting the precedent for "Work Smarter" design, Rubbermaid Commercial Products introduces its new line of Compact Housekeeping Carts. The carts feature a smarter design that provides superior maneuverability without compromising overall storage capacity. "A small thing, like being able to access all your supplies from both sides of the cart, has a meaningful impact on productivity," said Bob Lauer, Product Manager. "We kept simple, time-saving features like this in mind as we designed our new Housekeeping Carts. And with their compact size and attractive appearance, the carts help the hospitality industry serve its clientele with efficiency and good looks."

Read: Rubbermaid Introduces Compact Housekeeping Carts - Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 10:04 AM | Permalink

I am not so sure if many viewers may be able to afford the few dollars it takes to order a custom-built vehicle but after looking at the images of the Ferrari P 4/5 on LeftLane News, I think Pininfarina may well have to step up production of its marque. 'Pininfarina has released some new images of the custom Ferrari P 4/5 it created for car collector James Glickenhaus. Valued at over $3 million, the vehicle was inspired by the P4 racer of the 1960s. Essentially, the P4/5 is a rebodied Ferrari Enzo, with a Pininfarina-designed and engineered exterior.'

Source: LeftLane News

Posted by Admin at 4:44 AM | Permalink