Handy Gadgets

Flashlight News reports on the announcement of the new Powerex "smart" battery charger which can recharge up to eight batteries simultaneously. 'Maha Energy, the maker of Powerex batteries and chargers, introduces a new, affordable eight cell smart charger for AA and AAA batteries. The "8x" campaign targets prospective users who need to charge more than four batteries offered by the typical charger. Suitable applications include photographic flashes, camera battery grip, and more. The new MH-C800S features eight independent slots that can charge one to eight AA or AAA batteries in any combination around one to two hours - it's like having eight chargers! The unit also incorporates a large LCD screen featuring the charging status of each battery. This new charger uses the same precision microprocessor as its professional sister model MH-C801D. ;

Read: Affordable "8x" Eight Slot Smart Charger from Powerex

Posted by Admin at 2:45 AM | Permalink

The USB Digital Microscope from Think Geek is both an affordable and versatile gadget to purchase for the younger members of the family. For a small investment of $70 the owner of the USB Microscope can view specimens collected around the house, backyard, desk or fridge and look at the micro-printing on a dollar bill or examine the traces on your motherboard. 'Simple plug and play operation with included software that allows you to magnify objects and view them on your PC up to 300X and capture snapshots and movies. You can also manipulate images with drawing and painting tools. The microscope camera is detachable and can function as a webcam using the included stand.'

Source: Think Geek

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CNET has reviewed the 46-inch Vizio GV46L HDTV. 'If you've roamed the cavernous halls of discount retailer Costco recently, you may have seen flat-panel HDTVs with the Vizio brand name and wondered whether their prices were too good to be true. Vizio televisions routinely cost a few hundred dollars less than the competition, and lately we've lauded their cost-to-performance ratios, although we have liked some better than others. Both of the inexpensive 42-inch Vizio LCDs we reviewed recently, for example (models L42 HDTV and GV42L HDTV), performed relatively well, and we called them great bargains as a result. The 46-inch model reviewed here, the GV46L HDTV, didn't perform as well as its smaller cousins though; we found its black-level performance and overall color accuracy disappointing given the brand's track record. We still can't argue with the GV46L's price, which is really low for a 46-inch LCD, but given a choice we'd take the company's 50-inch plasma instead.'

Read: Vizio GV46L HDTV - CNET

Posted by Admin at 11:31 PM | Permalink

C.Crane has put up a selection of shortwave radios on their site for sale at reduced prices. You can view models from the budget priced Kaito KA1103 Radio which sells for $89.95 to the feature-rich ICOM IC-R3 Receiver which would set you back the tidy sum of $400. 'The best source of global information continues to be shortwave radio. Throughout the world, shortwave remains the most readily available and affordable means of communication and information. It lets you listen to voices from around the world. You'll also learn about the lives and concerns of people from all walks of life, from soldiers, to farmers, to retired scholars.'

Source: C.Crane

Posted by Admin at 2:31 AM | Permalink

If you have never owned a laser pointer but are considering to purchse one of the devices, check out this hands-on review of the Nexus 95mW Green laser over at The Gadgeteer. 'I haven't had a lot of experience with lasers. Yes, I've played with the cheap $20 keychain variety, but that's about the extent of it. So when the folks at Wicked Lasers asked if I'd be interested in writing a review, I really didn't think it would be that big of a deal. I mean how hard would it be to write a review that said something like: "It's a laser. You press a button, a little dot of light beams out of one end. Boring! The End." Boy was I mistaken...'

Read: Wicked Lasers Nexus 95mW - The Gadgeteer

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A review of the Westinghouse DPF-0561 digital photo frame has been posted over at PC Magazine. 'With a 5.6-inch LCD screen, the DPF-0561 can display standard JPEG pictures and AVI video files. It comes with three interchangeable frames; mahogany, brushed aluminum, and black. The compact display measures 4.2 by 6.4 by 1.1 inches (HWD) and weighs just under a pound. Controls to access the menu, navigate to the next or previous photo, and adjust brightness are located on the top of the frame. The Play button lets you select menu options and zoom in on photos. The frame supports multiple memory card formats, including SecureDigital, MultiMedia, xD, Memory Stick, and CompactFlash. I tested the frame with all of these formats and had no problems.'

Read: Westinghouse DPF-0561 - PC Mag

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Daniel Terdiman writing over at CNET provides some insights into just what to expect from the PlayStation 3 gaming console. ' From the street, it's not clear why such an event would matter, but inside, on two floors filled almost literally to the rafters with high-definition TVs and PS3s, it's obvious that this is the center of the video game universe today. And that's borne out by the fact that nearly every important American video game journalist is on hand. Earlier in the afternoon, the 200 to 300 reporters, analysts and video game industry professionals in attendance sat for an hour-plus press conference in which Sony unveiled the PS3 launch titles lineup, as well as information about the next-generation console's peripherals, online and networked functions and more.'

Read: PlayStation 3 shines in prelaunch test - CNET

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The Cross Executive Pen provides the opportunity for those who take their writing instruments seriously to dispense with the "nameless" stylus when "writing" on their Tablet PCs. 'The Penabled Cross Executive Pen is a cordless, battery-free, high-resolution electronic pen with built-in eraser that delivers a quality, pressure-sensitive writing experience for Tablet PC users. Combining A.T. Cross quality and design with Wacom's innovative electronics, the Executive Pen with Cap—which offers the more traditional profile of a conventional ink-on-paper writing instrument—represents an unparalled combination of quality and value for the Tablet PC Platform.'

Cross: Product Page Via: Red Ferret

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The 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible comes outfitted with 16-inch wheels, seat-height adjustment and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a centrally mounted speedometer, air conditioning with micron filtration, a six-speaker stereo with CD player and power windows, locks and mirrors. 'Mini drivers who want to go fast will appreciate the tuner package on the 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible with the John Cooper Works Kit, but they will have to be really dedicated to stomach the price tag. Beyond some extra horses and torque, driving with the top down on this convertible Mini can make for a particularly exhilarating ride. Other than the engine kit and the powered convertible top, this car isn't much different from the 2006 Mini Cooper S we reviewed earlier this year. This one also has a premium Harman Kardon audio system, but it lacks navigation, which is available as an option. There is also a nice array of dealer-installed options available, which weren't on our test car, including an auxiliary audio jack, iPod integration, a six-CD changer, and Bluetooth cell phone integration.'

Read: 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible w/John Cooper Works Kit - CNET

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The new Easy Recorder 2 from Hagiwara Sys-Com is a portable digital video recorder that records in MPEG-4 format onto Memory Stick Duo or PRO Duo. 'The Easy Recorder 2 records video content (via composite analog signal from a VCR, DVD or video camera) directly to Memory Stick Duo in MPEG-4 Memory Stick Video format, a widely used video format for popular portable devices and compatible with Apple Quick Time® for your personal computer.'

Read: Video Recorder is targeted for portable device users. Thomas Net

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The iLoupe microscope/camera from Aven Inc., combines digital camera technology with state-of-the-art microscopy. 'The iLoupe combines patented state-of-the-art technology with an easy-to-use portable format, making the product as functional as it is innovative. By simply attaching the removable microscopic module, which features lens magnifications ranging from 60x to 150x, to a digital Canon SD600 six-mega pixel camera, the unit easily transforms into a fully functional field microscope in a matter of seconds.'

Read: Microscope/Camera features portable design. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 10:10 PM | Permalink

Daniel Terdiman writing over at CNET provides some close-up details of his "turn" at the Nintendo Wii "next-gen" console. 'Thanks to Nintendo product testing supervisor Sean Egan, I've have about 90 minutes of solo time on the Wii as part of a road show Nintendo's putting on for the console in advance of its Nov. 19 release. My test has cemented the feeling I had at the E3 game show in May, where I got about five minutes of Wii play time, that for players like me who aren't hard-core gamers but enjoy good game play, Nintendo's next-generation console will be a lot more fun than Microsoft's Xbox 360 or Sony's PlayStation 3. '

Read: Hands on the Wii - CNET

Posted by Admin at 9:29 PM | Permalink

The Craftsman CompuCarve available from Sears is a computer-controlled, 3-dimensional woodworking machine "that’ll carve in 3-D on workpieces up to 14-1/2″ wide by 5″ high and almost unlimited length". 'The CompuCarve can work in most soft materials, including wood, plastics (polycarbonate or cast acrylic) and certain types of high density foam. Set includes CompuCarve machine, (1) 1/16 in. carbide carving bit, (1) 1/8 in. carbide cutting bit, CarveWright Memory Card, starter software package, (2) 1/4 in. bit adaptors, vacuum bag adaptor, bit removal tool, hex wrench, owner's manual and Quick Start Guide.' T he CompuCarve which is priced at $1,899.99 is however temporarily out of stock.

Features:
•Built-in computer walks you through project setup
•QuickRout technology makes changing bits quick and easy
•Memory card - no need to keep a computer in the shop
•CarveWright design software is powerful yet easy to use - even novices can create complex designs in minutes
•Expandable 3-D design library
•Patented rising-head and feed-through configuration handles work pieces up to 14-1/2 in. W, 5 in. H and almost any length
•Allows you to achieve professional results regardless of space, time, budget or skill
•Requires a PC running Windows 2000 or XP with 128 MB RAM (256 MB or greater recommended), 75 MB of hard drive space and an accelerated graphics card with OpenGL support.

Source: Sears Via: Woodworking Online

Posted by Admin at 12:58 AM | Permalink

Simon Williams has posted a review of the affordable Lexmark X5470 "All-in-One" machine over at Trusted Reviews. 'Inkjet all-in-one machines are definitely beginning to take over from inkjet printers as the main consumer printing device. For very little more money, you have all the extra functionality of scanning and copying. Lexmark has a range of all-in-ones to suit all prices and the X5470 sits above its entry-level devices and offers faxing as well as photo printing. Echoing the blocky design the company released a year or more back, the new machine has a cuboid look, but with a bulge at its left-hand side for the Auto Document Feeder (ADF) and a fold-out control panel at the front. The colour scheme of silver and ice-white may well appeal to the Macintosh, as well as PC, owner.'

Read: Lexmark X5470 All-in-One - Trusted Reviews

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The new E2(TM) earplugs from Magid Glove & Safety come in a "One size fits all" specification and are intended to protect your hearing from extreme noise levels. 'Made from comfortable, non-irritating, lightweight hearing protection materials, E2(TM) reusable earplugs feature triple flange construction that delivers multi-surface sealing against noise levels of 85 dB and above. Products offer NRR of 24 dB and have cleanable, one-size-fits-all design with red flanges that promote visibility. Available with or without plastic case and chain, earplugs feature either black PVC stem or red cord attachments.'

Read: Earplugs are designed to promote safety and comfort. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 2:47 PM | Permalink

The Scroll Pan [roll-up frying pan] may just be a concept of designer Sam Hextall at this time but there is definite potential for such a "flexible" product as long as the issue of "runoff" is addressed. 'The Scroll Pan is a product which radically changes the way we perceive the regular frying pan. It folds and rolls and addresses the serious issue of storage. Great for cooking omelettes, bacon, steak etc the Scroll Pan introduces more fun to frying. Folding your omelette, for example, has never been easier. Different shapes and sizes as well as cooking surfaces would be available in the range and each pan comes with a storage sleeve which can be hung up. The rolling base of the pan could be made in a number of ways. Diphenyl silicone (plasma treated and Teflon coated) would produce a heatproof and flexible surface. Safe to cook on, light, durable and easy to clean the Scroll Pan is a modern, stylish and fun addition to the kitchen.'

Scroll Pan; Product Page Via: Oh Gizmo

Posted by Admin at 9:52 PM | Permalink

You would normally expect safety equipment to located at various points in a workplace or site for the simple reason that they would be readily available in the event of an emergency. The new Lyon Safety Center which would centralize emergency inventory in one location, appears to be targeted at the problem of the "disapperance" of easily accessible equipment and supplies. 'Designed to facilitate response to spills or injuries that occur on shop floor, Safety Center Cabinet keeps critical safety supplies nearby and ready. Cabinet features 14-gauge, all-welded construction with bright, safety yellow finish. While forklift base facilitates movement anywhere in facility, Lexan® door inserts permit supervision to accelerate evaluation of safety supply inventory without opening doors. Padlock attachment prevents pilferage.'

Read: Supply Cabinet helps increase emergency response times. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 1:04 AM | Permalink

Jennifer DeLeo writing over at the Gear log has posted a review of the Doberman Security's Alarm Combo. 'I've worn the Power Button for a few workouts now, and though it's not particularly innovative, it's definitely useful. Its armband is comfortable and easy to adjust (it doesn't get much easier than Velcro, folks!) and the device is light enough that I barely noticed I was wearing it. I don't particularly care for the white-and-bright-orange color scheme (it also comes in white and blue), but I do realize that the point of the Power Button is to help me be safe, not to make the chicest runner in the park. That said, if you really hate the way it looks, it's flat enough to hide under a T-shirt sleeve.'

Read: Better Safe Than Sorry Series: Alarm Combo - Gear Log

Posted by Admin at 12:39 AM | Permalink

There will come a time when the antenna to your radio, or stereo, becomes broken or otherwise inoperable. At such time you can put your ingenuity to work and attempt to "pull ogether" a make-shift antenna or you can seek to obtain a replacement. The Terk AM Advantage antenna available from C. Crane for $39.95 is not only pleasing to the eye but works with and without wired connection. 'When appearance is an issue you finally have a great choice! It has most of the power of a Select-A-Tenna plus it is a handsome addition to any decor. It comes with wires like our Select-A-Tenna Hardwire Model for direct connection to your stereo; plus it can be used without the wires like our regular model Select-A-Tenna. It certainly blows away any of the smaller antennas normally included with a home stereo system. Size: 9.5” high.'

Source: C. Crane

Posted by Admin at 3:34 PM | Permalink

There are several flashlights presently available which allow you the convenience of an adequate light source without the hindrance of having to carry the devices in your hand. While these lights may need to be attached to your ear or hat, the new BeamBag hands-free flashlight "sits comfortably on your shoulder, a pillow or any surface, casting bright light exactly where you need it". The flashlight resembles a a bean bag with a flashlight inserted. The BeamBag flashlight is powered by two AAA batteries which are not included in the $25 price tag.

Brookstone Product Page Via: Chip Chick

Posted by Admin at 12:53 AM | Permalink

A review of the somewhat "pricey" Samsung HL-S5679W HDTV has been posted over at CNET. 'Earlier this year, we called Samsung's HL-S5687W "the best 1080p big-screen we've reviewed so far" in terms of value, and that's still the case. For the vast majority of big-screen seekers, that television represents an excellent combination of performance and budget-mindedness. But some viewers out there don't see its picture quality in quite the same way. Instead, to paraphrase The Sixth Sense, they see rainbows. The rainbow effect is a picture artifact common to DLP-based front- and rear-projectors, almost all of which use color wheels to produce color. While the wheel does spin thousands of times per second, too fast for most people to discern, some viewers see brief, distracting bursts of color, especially in high-contrast areas or during rapid eye or camera movement. If you're one of those people, the HL-S5679W, Samsung's first DLP HDTV to use an LED light source, is mighty interesting indeed.'

Read: Samsung HL-S5679W - CNET

Posted by Admin at 2:39 PM | Permalink

A review of the TomTom Rider navigation system has been posted over at CNET. 'Portable navigation systems aren't just for cars. Motorcyclists need help getting around, too, and the TomTom Rider aims to do just that. Designed for those who ride on two wheels, the Rider provides you with a simple plug-and-go solution with all the navigation basics, such as text- and voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, automatic route recalculation, and a substantial points-of-interest (POI) database. The unit also has integrated Bluetooth and comes with a wireless headset so that you can get voice prompts channeled to your helmet and make hands-free calls. That said, we recommend you use your own headset or invest in one, as the included accessory has poor sound quality. Also, we found some of the POI entries to be outdated, and directions weren't always the most efficient. Still, overall, we think the Rider is a solid navigation solution for motorcyclists, albeit a bit pricey at $899. And it'll definitely face some stiff competition when the Garmin Zumo is released later this year.'

Read: TomTom Rider - CNET

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The new SKIL Miter Saw [10 in. Model 3800] which becomes available to consumers in November features motion activated, two-beam laser technology which makes lining up a cut "easier than ever". 'The never-before-seen technology that comprises the SmartCut system allows users to make cuts faster and safer than ever before. As the operator comes within range of the saw, its motion-activated laser system automatically turns on. With both hands free, the user can now position their cut line between the two laser beams that project onto the material. Similar to other newly-introduced Skil saws, the two-beam laser technology shows the user exactly what portion of the material will be removed during the cut, lessening the opportunity for imperfect cuts. And, since the lasers are activated by motion instead of pulling the trigger, users no longer have to adjust their workpiece with one hand.'

Read: Miter Saw features motion-activated, 2-beam laser. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 3:39 PM | Permalink

Conquering the learning curve of the Monster Home Theater and Lighting Controller 300 should be relatively easy since accompanying desktop software allows installation of Monster software on your Internet-connected Windows PC or Mac. 'Both of Monster's 2006 universal remotes feature color screens, but the Monster Home Theater Controller 100 ($350) is IR only, while the step-up Monster Home Theater and Lighting Controller 300 ($600) comes with both IR (infrared) and RF (radio frequency) capabilities, the latter being useful for components hidden behind cabinets or even in other rooms. The Monster 300 is also able to control lights in your home using the optional IlluminEssence lighting modules, which work on the Z-Wave wireless technology standard. Because of its RF and multiroom capabilities, the Home Theater and Lighting Controller 300 most closely resembles--in terms of features, anyway--the much less expensive Logitech Harmony 890.'

Read: Monster Cable Home Theater and Lighting Controller 300 - CNET

Posted by Admin at 12:58 AM | Permalink

Laptop Magazine has provided some useful insights on the Slingbox TV streaming device which allows you to "watch whatever's on live at home (or recorded on a DVR) right on your PC or smart phone". 'The company that gave us the coolest innovation in TV since TiVo is at it again, today launching three new Slingbox devices that promise a 300 percent video quality improvement along with a much easier setup. If you like the idea of watching your favorite shows on your laptop or smart phone, and don't want to pay a monthly fee to do it, check out our impressions of this slick gadget. The Slingbox concept remains brilliant: Watch whatever's on live at home (or recorded on a DVR) right on your PC or smart phone. As long as you have a broadband Internet connection, whether it's Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or 3G cellular, you're good to go. You can watch CNN in the office while you check e-mail, enjoy the big football game while killing time at the airport, or catch up on your Colbert Report TiVo recordings during your daily commute.'

Read: Slingbox AV Hands-On - Laptop Magazine

Posted by Admin at 4:27 AM | Permalink

Eubiq power supply solutions takes the idea of power supply management in the home and office to a completely new level with their range of innovative power supply and cable management products. 'The Eubiq power track is the backbone to the system. Designed to be easily installed, the power track can be mounted on any existing surface or even recess mounted. There are two different types of power tracks in the range for flexibility and adaptability. The surface mount tracks are a quick and immediate solution that fits onto existing surfaces in homes offices and workshops. The recess mount tracks offer a cleaner, flushed effect and are ideal for integrating into furniture, panels and skirting.'

Read: Ingenious Eubiq power supply solution - Gizmag

Posted by Admin at 3:55 AM | Permalink

CNET has reviewed the "pricey" Sony KDL-46XBR2 HDTV. 'The design of the Sony KDL-46XBR2 is unique in the world of flat-panel TVs. A silver frame or bezel surrounds the screen and houses the left and right speakers. A glass frame extends around the larger silver frame, then a thin silver edge borders the circumference of the glass, making for an extremely elegant look. A large and distracting Sony logo lights up whenever you turn the set on, which is about the only thing we don't like about the design. Happily, the light can be disabled. As with the 40-inch Sony KDL-40XBR2, you can choose to swap out the silver bezel and stand for any one of five other colors, which cost $299 each. The 46-inch KDL-46XBR2 is wider than many similarly sized LCDs out there, measuring 49.7 by 31.3 by 12.7 inches (WHD) including stand; the panel itself is about 4.8 inches deep.'

Read: Sony KDL-46XBR2 - CNET

Posted by Admin at 4:31 PM | Permalink

The Pioneer S-A4SPT-PM speakers are definitely intended for persons who desire the ultimate "listening experience". 'Big Japanese electronics companies like Sony, Panasonic, and JVC produce a wide range of products that never make it to our shores. Often, these products are deemed too expensive or just too exotic for the American market. That's why we were surprised to see Pioneer sell its whiskey-barrel speakers on this side of the Pacific. While most "wood" speakers are in fact constructed from medium-density fiberboard, essentially sawdust mixed with wax and resin, topped off with either real or ersatz wood veneers, the Pioneer S-A4SPT-PM speakers are constructed from solid oak--wood that just happened to spend the last half-century as a whiskey barrel, in fact. Pioneer has sold these so-called Pure Malt speakers in Japan for years, but they're now available in the States (via pioneerelectronics.com) for $600 a pair.'

Read: Pioneer S-A4SPT-PM - CNET

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