Handy Gadgets

The USB Massage Ball is currently out of stock at Overstock.com but the idea of having a miniature massager which is supposed to be capable of soothing aching muscles and joints while you are tapping away on the computer is certainly tempting. The device has a 1.8-meter USB cable which when plugged into your computer should be adequate enough to to reach any area of your body. Combining a massage with working online may however take a little getting used to. The USB Massage Ball is priced at $11.95.

USB Massage Ball@Overstock Via: Gizmodo : Gearlog

Posted by Admin at 11:43 AM | Permalink

The Sony Altus MDR-D777LP high-end headphones are equipped with high definition drivers to enhance the quality of sound and feature collapsible earpieces. 'Sony’s recent unveiling of their new Altus headphones was met with the sounds of both fanfare and skepticism. The most notable feature, an 8 Hz to 80 kHz frequency response range, makes most people wonder how Sony managed such a breakthrough, while audiophiles wondered where the catch was; it’s not every day that the range of reproducible sounds from consumer headphones triples. So regardless of all the hocus pocus of the supplied specifications, how do the Altus headphones perform?'

Read: Sony Altus MDR-D777LP Headphones - Digital Trends

Posted by Admin at 12:42 AM | Permalink

Klein Tools has expanded its range of protective eyewear products which are designed for comfort and all-day use and feature anti-fog, scratch-resistant, anti-UV lens coatings. 'Protective eyewear features fog- and scratch-resistant lens coating that blocks 99.9% of UVA and UVB. Wrap-around polycarbonate lens allows for clear peripheral vision, and design features adjustable temple length and flexible nose piece for snug fit. Dark gray lens is for outdoor areas with strong sunlight and glare, and amber lens suits indoor and outdoor low-light applications. Offering true color recognition, SCT® gray lens meets ANSI Z80.3-2001 traffic signal recognition requirements.'

Read: Protective Eyewear meets ANSI and OSHA requirements. - Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 4:02 PM | Permalink

Laptop Magazine has provided some informed comment on the Creative Xmod plug-and-play device for PC/Mac which allows the user to listen to enhanced sound from music and movies. 'Initially, we were a tad skeptical of Creative’s much-hyped Xmod, a plug-and-play sound enhancer that connects to a notebook’s USB port for upconverting digital audio to surpass CD quality. But our suspicions were soon stymied after firing up this ingenious device. Whether we were listening using headphones or a set of 2.1 speakers, movies and music sounded clearer and crisper'.

Read: Creative Xmod - Laptop Mag

Posted by Admin at 3:24 PM | Permalink

If you are one of those "deep sleepers" who experience some difficulty in awakening on mornings, the Flying Alarm Clock from Boysstuff.co.uk may just be the device to "jar" you from your slumber. While there will be some reservations of having an object flying around the room while your asleep (or awake for that matter), it would be difficult to envisage the Flying Alarm Clock failing to get the job done. 'You'll have to get up when this little baby starts, because it takes off and flies round the room, making a really annoying noise like a mosquito, so you'll have to find it first, before you can turn it off. Even if you hit the snooze button, it will take off again, so it will undoubtedly get you out of bed, though of course it might smash the place up a bit before you catch it, and if you sleep with the windows open you might find yourself running round the garden in your jimjams (no way to wake up) and may frighten the neighbourhood dogs.'

Flying Alarm Clock@Boysstuff.co.uk Via: Trusted Reviews

Posted by Admin at 11:48 AM | Permalink

Even if you do not like convertibles you would have to make an exception for the new Rolls-Royce Corniche which, though not yet available for test drives, would certainly do wonders for your profile were you to be spotted in the driver's seat at some point in time 'Under the hood, it will probably sport a 6.8-Liter V12 engine which is also found in the current Phantom line-up. With seating for 4 passengers, the Corniche Convertible will use many elements from the EX concepts, including the teak roof cover and a stainless steel hood. It will officially debut at the Detroit auto show in January.'

Source: Car News Site

Posted by Admin at 2:28 AM | Permalink

The investment in your notebook/laptop can be immeasurable particularly if your income is derived from your use of the machine. You can never be too sure your laptop will never slip from your grasp or bag and fall possibly on to a hard surface thereby occasioning some expensive repairs. Of course you can devise your very own means of insulating your computer when you are on the road but if your finances would allow there are some pretty tough cases such as the brand new Hardigg Storm Case - iM2370 which would get the job and cut a nice show at the same time. 'Safety and convenience are nothing without security, though. Like the rest of the Storm Case line, the iM2370 features Hardigg's unique Press & Pull latches, which stay closed even when the case is dropped, yet open without breaking knuckles or tearing fingernails. In a first for Hardigg, the iM2370 includes built-in latch locks to address the specific security requirements of mobile professionals. Unbreakable molded-in hasps for external locks provide another level of defense against theft.'

Read: Laptop Case offers security for mobile professionals. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 2:33 PM | Permalink

If you desire a mobile phone primarily for the talk feature and can live without the multimedia, music and cameras which have become standard in most of the popular handsets , you should check out the review of the O2 Jet over at Trusted Reviews. 'The O2 Jet looks rather dowdy. Its almost entirely black coloring and obviously plastic casing aren’t going to endear it to anyone who wants a bit of bling from their phone. It is also a bit on the clunky side. It weighs 121g which is not too much for the average pocket, but it is fairly sizeable at 118mm tall, 47.7mm wide and 19.1mm thick. The slightly greater than usual dimensions mean there is room for a large number pad. Above this the softmenu buttons and Call and End keys are also fairly large. Though the navigation button is not particularly oversized it is ridged which makes it easy to use with the thumb.'

Read: O2 Jet - Trusted Reviews

Posted by Admin at 1:45 AM | Permalink

The VX37L 37-inch LCD features integrated HDTV capabilities, 1366 x 768 HD pixel resolution and a viewing angle of up to 178 degrees. ‘The array of conveniences, atypically complete for an inexpensive HDTV, begins with a versatile picture-in-picture function, allowing you to view two inputs or channels simultaneously. You can also conjure two same-sized images side-by-side or go with the standard smaller inset image. Naturally, the VX37L includes an HDTV tuner that can grab over-the-air high-def and digital channels. A viewer can also cycle through three aspect-ratio modes with HD sources and select a fourth, panorama, with standard-def sources. Vizio added a few picture adjustment options beyond the older L37's, namely the ability to finely adjust color temperature with red, green, and blue controls. More expeditious color-temperature control can be achieved by toggling between the Warm, Cool, and Normal preset modes. We normally expect Warm to provide the most accurate color temp, but in the VX37L's case, Normal was better (see Performance for details). We also like the option to tweak the backlight control, which adjusts the intensity of the lamp behind the screen. There are three preset picture modes, Game, Movie, and Standard, and a fourth Custom setting that's independent for each input.’

Read: Vizio VX37L HDTV – CNET

Posted by Admin at 1:10 PM | Permalink

For those folk who prefer their simple pocket radios instead of the more technologically advanced gadgets on the market, Sangean has introduced a new radio and added some next generation features to boot. 'Features include: FM mono/stereo, AM, TV audio (channels 2 - 13), 19 memory presets, auto-scanning, built-in 1.4" speaker, high-quality earbuds. The earphone cord (or 33" plain wire, provided) doubles as an antenna. You can set the radio on your desk and listen through the 1.4" speaker, or plug in the earbuds for private listening. Sangean has done an excellent job of improving this next generation pocket radio. Among the notable improvements from the original DT200V model are: better AM reception, display light, clock, better sound and longer battery life. Runs for 37 hours on 2 "AA" batteries (not included). 90-day warranty. Weight: 5 oz. Size: 2.5" W x 4.2" H x 0.8" D.' The Sangean DT200VX Pocket AM/FM Radio is available from C.Crane for $64.95.

C.Crane: Sangean DT200VX Pocket AM/FM Radio

Posted by Admin at 11:44 AM | Permalink

Tired of standing in line to use the blender or coffee-machine at the office? Enter the motorized battery operated Beaker Blender available for $12.00 from Stupidiotic.com. ‘This Beaker Blender will mix your liquid concoctions with the press of a button. Quickly blast your Kool-aid mix, Chocolate milk, Energy powders, Coffee, tea etc. with this cyclone-like mixer cup. Mix and drink from the very same glass. Measure markings printed on the side of the beaker. Available in assorted colors. Uses 2 "AA" size batteries (not included).’ All that is left to complete the stress free experience would be a workable microwave oven equivalent.

Stupidiotic: Beaker Blender Via: Uber-Review

Posted by Admin at 2:28 PM | Permalink

If you are not too particularly trusting of the Koban's "Super Multifunctional Earthquake Detecting Device" capability to deliver accurate and timely information regarding the sometimes unstable movements of the Earth's tectonic plates, the device would still satisfy the need for a stand alone AM/FM radio. This hand-cranked gadget is really a nice emergency gadget which features an LED flashlight, AM/FM radio, multiple phone chargers (Japan specific), and a siren. The Koban Super Multifunctional Earthquake Detecting Device is only available in Japan

Source: Engadget

Posted by Admin at 2:55 PM | Permalink

The Kyocera wireless portable speaker with built-in headset allows you to transfer your calls from the headset to speaker without interference and uses Digital Signal Processing (DSP) processing for echo and noise cancellation. 'The Kyocera Wireless Portable Speaker with Headset is exactly what its name implies--a combination portable speaker that is also a dock for a Bluetooth headset. You can use the Bluetooth headset by itself, of course, but when it's slotted into the portable speaker, you immediately transform your cell phone into a speakerphone. This combination device costs approximately $89.99.' Both the headset and the speaker units are silver and gray. The Bluetooth headset is small (2x0.6x1.1 inches) with no boom, and weighs only 0.37 ounces. A multifunction button sits in the middle of the headset, while the volume buttons are positioned on the left and right spine. All the buttons were very easy to press, even when the headset was worn on the ear. The charger jack is on the top of the device, while the earbud rests on its rear face.'

Read: Kyocera Wireless Portable Speaker With Headset - CNET

Posted by Admin at 9:11 PM | Permalink

If you desire an easy-to-use portable GPS system the Navman F20 maybe right up your street with its finger-friendly 3.5” touchscreen coupled with the latest GPS technology you should experience little difficulty in comprehending the information from this device. 'The GPS market has been exploding for the past six months, and with more competition comes better models at lower prices. Navman's entry-level F20 lists for $349 (although you can find it for $50 less) and delivers a satisfyingly simple way to navigate. It doesn't have advanced features like Bluetooth or music playback, but price-conscious buyers will be happy with its value and streamlined interface.'

Features:
• Large 3.5” touchscreen
• Reliable, accurate GPS navigation with SiRFstar III technology
• Nearest Fuel and Park buttons to alert you to the nearest petrol station or car park
• Compatibility with the optional T1 Traffic Pack for real-time, subscription-free traffic updates in the UK, France, Germany, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands
• Advanced Motorway Navigation
• Route Summary View and Pause Journey functions
• POI import capability
• The F20 also builds on the iCN 300 series GPS systems, to put powerful GPS capabilities at your fingertips:
• Spare SD card slot for additional maps
• POI import capability, so you can add your own points of interest, such as safety cameras, using the optional desktop connectivity kit
• Drive-Away so it’s ready to use out of the box
• Automatic re-routing with Back-on-Track
• Pre-installed regional map

Read: Navman F20 - Laptop Mag

Posted by Admin at 3:53 PM | Permalink

If you have any reservations as to whether you are up to the challenge of operating any of the "toy" helicopters on the market, check out the experience of The Gadgeteer in a review of the PicooZ RC Helicopter. 'Weighing in at an almost feather weight of 0.4 ounces, the PicooZ is small and fragile feeling. The body is styrofoam while the tail part is a thin tape covered plastic strip. The 3 rotor blades are made of a thin flexible plastic. In contrast, the handheld transmitter is a robust plastic module with 2 thumb controlled joysticks that control power and direction. The transmitter is powered by 6 AA batteries (not included). In addition to controlling the PicooZ, it also charges the Li-poly battery in the helicopter.'

Read: PicooZ RC Helicopter - The Gadgeteer

Posted by Admin at 12:33 PM | Permalink

The Flashing LED Balloon Lights from WiKKed Vibes are LED bulbs which come in 2.5cm and 3.5cm sizes. The lights are available in blue, green, red, white and yellow colors and are meant to be inserted in balloons which are not included in the sale. 'Each light comes complete with three button cell batteries. You have everything you require to operate this device - just add your own balloons!! Lasts minimum 24 - 48 hours if left on constantly (some we have tested have lasted for over one whole week when left on constantly flashing!!) Ideal to be used for several events if you can bear to switch them off after the parties over!! Beware: your guests will want to take them home!! They can be re-used with replacement batteries'

WiKKed Vibes: Product Page Via: Shiny Media

Posted by Admin at 2:04 AM | Permalink

A review of the affordable Onkyo SKS-HT740 7.1-channel speaker system has been posted over at CNET. 'Onkyo speakers are usually boxy and blandly styled--look at the 7.1-channel Onkyo SKS-HT540, for instance. That's why we were surprised to see that the SKS-HT740's are attractively curved, thin-profile designs, set off with high-gloss end caps and tasteful black cloth grilles. This system includes seven identical speakers that deliver a smoother surround imaging than the differently sized front, center, and surround speakers found in the HT540 package. They're 13.4 x 6.3 x 3.6 inches (HWD); the center channel speaker is identical to the others but is intended to be placed horizontally rather than vertically. It can be set in its cradle-stand, or like the others, wall mounted via keyhole slots. Since they're less than 4 inches deep, the speakers will look right at home next to a flat-panel TV. The speakers feature a pair of 3.1-inch woofers flanking a 1-inch dome tweeter. The spring clip speaker wire connectors accept stripped, bare wires.'

Read: Onkyo SKS-HT740 - CNET

Posted by Admin at 3:17 PM | Permalink

At this time of year folks are challenged to come up with creative gift ideas which, while exciting and useful to the recipient, do not cause undue strain on their finances. The BodyGard 5-In-1 Emergency Tool is a neat handy gadget for use in emergency situations which would make for a nice practical gift. 'Not only can BodyGard be used in vehicle emergencies, it can also be used to signal for help or to ward off attackers when walking, biking and hiking. With the push of a button, its sonic alarm signals trouble with a high-decibel output. Its bright, flashing red distress light is also push-button activated to signal for, and direct help to, your location. The high-intensity flashlight can be used for night sight and safety. The BodyGard 5-In-1 Emergency Tool is available from ThinkGeek for $14.99

Features:
• Automatic glass breaker, Safety-blade seat belt cutter, Sonic alarm, Flashing red distress light, Bright-white LED flashlight
• Attaches securely to keyring - releases with a quick pull
• Tough ABS plastic housing
• Comes with a replaceable A23/12V battery
• Dimensions: 3” x 1-3/4” x 5/8”
• Weight: 1 oz.
• Limited lifetime warranty

Source: ThinkGeek

Posted by Admin at 4:26 PM | Permalink

Portable TV's have come of age and no longer do you have to lug around with the bulky portables from familiar vendors which, while devoid of features to manipulate "modern" media formats, usually carried a hefty price tag especially for the color versions. The HANNSmobi Portable TV from Hannspree is an affordable portable DVD player featuring an integrated TV tuner. The device which retails for $299 would fit comfortably in any travel luggage unlike its predecessors.

Features:
• 7 inch LCD screen supported by a stand offering a unique and comfortable viewing angle
• Plays DVD-Video, DVD -/+R/RW, VCD, SVCD, CD-Audio, CD-R/RW, JPEG, and MP3 discs
• Includes Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery with up to 3.5 hours of continuous playback
• Other included accessories are: Remote Control, AC power adapter, Cigarette Lighter Power adapter, TV Antenna with Magnet-mount, A/V input cable, and a Nylon carrying case with strap which can be converted to a mounted bracket for use with a headrest in a car or RV.
• Standalone dimensions: 7.5"W x 7.9"H x 1.1"D; about 1.9 lbs
• W/ battery pack and tuner dimensions: 7.5"W x 7.9"H x 2.1"D; about 2.7 lbs

Hannspree: HANNSmobi Via: Popgadget

Posted by Admin at 10:29 PM | Permalink

The Gadgeteer highlights some issues of significance related to the use of the Knee Defender " travel accessory", meant for use by tall folks who would wish to constrain the movement of reclining airplane seats. 'Here's a handy gadget to have around if you're constantly getting your knees smashed by the seat in front of you on an airline- the aptly named "Knee Defender" from Gadget Duck. What is it? What you get for your hard earned $14.95 money are two small clamp/wedge looking pieces of plastic that are very easy to throw in a carry on bag or jacket pocket. They're solid, well made blocks of plastic designed to fit between the bar of your seat tray and the back of the seat in front of you. There's no moveable parts or buttons or anything complicated.'

Read: Knee Defender - The Gadgeteer

Posted by Admin at 11:52 PM | Permalink

The Palmsize Micro Copter is just the right "pair of wings" for that aspiring aviator at this time of the year. This gizmo on sale at Think Geek for $49.99 should not be much of a burden on your wallet especially if the behavior of your charge has been tolerable for the better part of the year. 'Unlike a traditional R/C helicopter, the Palmsize Micro Copter is always moving forward. You control the hover height and right or left turns. By a slight twist of the tail before takeoff you can adjust how quickly the copter moves forward. It can go at a pretty good clip if desired, so practice up if you expect to challenge the expert pilots at the ThinkGeek office.'

Features:
• Amazingly small Infrared Remote control helicopter
• Flashing Blue LED for Night Flying
• Intended for indoor use. Outdoor flying only under ZERO wind conditions.
• Full Flight control with up/down and turn right/left
• Body is constructed from durable EPP foam
• Internal helicopter battery charges from remote control unit
• 15 minute charge time, 5 - 7 minute flight time
• Extra rotor included
• Uses 6AA Batteries (Not Included)

Palmsize Micro Copter @ Think Geek

Posted by Admin at 2:47 PM | Permalink

The Philips MCD702 stereo component sound system features 2 Rosewood Finish 2-way speakers with ribbon tweeters, a DVD and CD player. 'When you think of stylish consumer electronic products, you probably don't think of A/V minisystems--but if more minisystems looked like the Philips MCD702, maybe you would. Its multitiered design, glossy faceplates, and rosewood speakers make it look much classier than its $250 list price would lead you to believe. Once you get past the glitzy aesthetics, however, there's not quite as much punch as its competitors have. While the MCD702 (also known as the MCD702/37) does offer DVD playback and MP3/WMA CD support, it's lacking features such as the USB port, DcivX playback, and multidisc changer that we've seen on other similar systems. And while we can live with a dearth of extra features, it was a little bit harder to live with the subpar sound. That said, if style is your No. 1 concern, the Philips MCD702 is up to basic home-theater tasks, and its price--under $200 online--is easy to swallow. If you're looking for a better performing system, check out Philips cheaper, less stylish MCD515, or the more expensive but feature-packed and better-sounding LG LF-D7150.'

Read: Philips MCD702 - CNET

Posted by Admin at 2:37 PM | Permalink

Laptop Magazine assesses the capability of the Sonic Impact Video 55 to manipulate the video of your iPod. ‘The Video 55 measures 8.7 x 6.5 x 1.7 inches and weighs 2.4 pounds, so you'll hardly notice it in your carry-on. Flip open the Video 55 to reveal its seven-inch display, a pop-up slot for your iPod, and its touch-sensitive controls. Once your iPod is docked, it folds down flush into the unit. The shiny, black interior matches the iPod perfectly, but it's also prone to fingerprints.’

Read: Sonic Impact Video 55 – Laptop Mag

Posted by Admin at 2:14 PM | Permalink

Globalstar has introduced the GSP-1700 Satellite Handset which is touted as being the "World's smallest, lightest handset for use on a global satellite network". 'Weighing approximately 7.1 ounces (203 grams), the newly designed GSP-1700 telephone is nearly half the weight of the company's current satellite handset and close to 45 percent smaller (by volume). The new lithium-ion battery is designed to provide users with four hours of talk time and 36 hours of standby time. The GSP-1700's lightweight ergonomic design embodies the ruggedness of the current Globalstar phone while integrating convenience-oriented features such as a new five-mode color display and portable headset capability. The phone supports six operating languages and is available in three vibrant faceplate colors, using durable high-luster or metallic finishes. For additional product details and images please visit the new product web site at http://www.globalstar.com/en/gsp1700.'

Read: Handset operates on Globalstar global satellite network. Thomas Net

Posted by Admin at 2:38 AM | Permalink

The Red Ferret Journal has compared the DualPhone 3088 Cordless Phone for Skype with the USR Cordless Skype Phone from US Robotics. 'The DualPhone 3088 Cordless Phone for Skype is the successor to the original Dualphone which we wrote about in November 2004. It is the first home Skype phone to operate without requiring a computer, which makes it a pretty advanced bit of tech. You simply hook it up to your broadband connection and landline sockets and start making Skype or conventional calls. So what is it like, and how does it compare with the latest of the conventional home Skype phones, the USR Cordless Skype Phone from US Robotics? Read on to find out…'

Read: Review - Dualphone 3088 vs USR Cordless Skype Phone - Red Ferret

Posted by Admin at 12:22 PM | Permalink

The Wave Fireplace is but one of the several designer fireplaces which though priced above the $1000 range, affords the average middle income householder an opportunity to add a level of sophistication to their living room decor. 'The Wave fire surround is crisp and elegant, soft and gentle and can create many different moods. The jambs and entablature break front have a wave motif in their styling with the column fronts curving to their inner edge moulding with a smooth half-ellipse profile. The surround has inlaid contoured panels that step in from the entablature to the back-panel repeating the wave curve. The hearth and back-panel shown here are from the Whitestone wave set and the fire is a Standard Inset gas fire with Gothic fret.'

West Country Fires: Wave Fireplace

Posted by Admin at 3:01 PM | Permalink