Handy Gadgets

The SmarterFitter Blog have published a review of the MSR PocketRocket stove which weighs three ounces and uses MSR IsoPro premium fuel. 'If temperature control is your main concern, then this wee marvel isn’t right for you. True: the flame is adjustable; however, even a low setting provides burning-hot heat from the center of its element (rather than spread out across its three prongs). The result is a grilled cheese that’s burnt in the middle but soggy around the edges (I learned this the hard way). Unless you’re boiling water or heating soup, food cooked on the pocket rocket needs to be kept in constant motion to prevent it from burning.'

Continue reading "MSR Pocket Rocket Review - SmarterFitter Blog" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:06 PM | Permalink

The Carry and Go Briefcase BBQ may not be too dissimilar in purpose from the traditional grill but the portable Barbeque has a lot going for it since, unlike the garage BBQ, it can be carried with you on the next hiking trip. 'The Carry and Go Briefcase BBQ is the latest in table-top, garden, patio, balcony, deck and park outdoor sizzlers - and it even comes with a carry case. Made from pressed steel, the 'Briefcase' folds out to provide a generous 48 x 35cm cooking area with integral wind breaks to stop your hot coals blowing all over the shop. Sturdy legs keep the whole caboodle off the ground to prevent you scorching anything, and it's a great deal more interesting and fun than a normal briefcase (and a lot less flammable). The carry bag is tough and comes with a shoulder strap, so it's a breeze to whisk off to your perfect BBQ spot. These portable barbeques are well made, well thought out, well good.'

Continue reading "Carry and Go Briefcase BBQ: Portable Barbeque Grill" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 5:52 PM | Permalink

The Vector Tough Brite Storm Tracker is one hell of an emergency gadget with all the components capable of operation from a few hand cranks. 'TV/Radio/Lantern with weather alert radio is rechargeable with the hand crank. Comes with a 5 In. solid state UHF/VHF black and white television. The AM/FM weather band radio has an AUTOMATIC STORM ALERT warning alarm. The 7 channel NOAA weather frequencies warn of dangerous weather conditions and emergency information. Powerful halogen spotlight and a fluorescent tube lantern. The built in hand crank provides backup power for all radio functions and LED area light. Approximately 2 crank minutes provides up to 15 minutes of runtime for the radio or LED light.' Price: $50

Continue reading "Vector Tough Brite Storm Tracker" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:03 PM | Permalink

JORDAN DAVID has introduced the new GRIP-X(TM) All-Traction(TM) Footwear which are designed to be worn over work shoes and boots and "has 16 traction spikes that provide slip resistance when treading over or working in ice, snow, slush, and freezing rain". 'Utilizing a unique "clamping" technique, the traction spikes on GRIP-X(TM) are engineered for maximum durability and will last far longer than prior technologies. GRIP-X(TM) also features an aggressive treaded sole design, which further enhances traction in slick conditions. GRIP-X(TM) features a unique "Dual Pull-Tab" for extreme ease of on/off. This patented design enables the user to expand the product in both length and width so as to easily mount on all types of footwear,. This design overcomes the disadvantages of the single pull-tab.'

Continue reading "New GRIP-X(TM) All-Traction Footwear secures footing in winter conditions" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:54 PM | Permalink

Pass & Seymour have introduced the new Home Locator Switch which can be activated to indicate the location of your home to visitors unsure of the precise location. ‘The Home Locator combines security with convenience. Party guests, delivery people and first-time visitors can easily spot a house when the Switch is activated," said Maria Del Amo-Lombardo, product manager for P&S. "It also works like a regular light switch and can be used every day. A paddle switch allows residents to manually turn a porch or garage light on and off. A push button switch below the paddle activates the Home Locator, turning the light on and off automatically and continuously.’

Continue reading "Signal Your Location With A Home Locator Switch" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 1:13 AM | Permalink

Scared of using the snow plough? No Problem! The Liquid Ice Melt solution from Storm Team is one of the products on the market which only needs to be applied to the pathway or doorway to rid the area of accumulations of ice and snow. The process is achieved without the use of salt, brine, corn, magnesium chloride-or any flammable or corrosive ingredients of any kind. 'Storm Team(TM) Liquid Ice Melt, is among the most environmentally friendly snow and ice melt product available today. Ideal for side walks, parking lots, ramps, equipment, roofs and more. This unique formula features chemicals with special inhibitors designed to quickly melt ice or snow upon contact. Storm Team(TM) is easy and safe to apply and when used properly it melts existing ice and snow on contact.'

Continue reading "Clear Ice And Snow Away With Liquid Ice Melt" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 8:22 PM | Permalink

With the recent flurry of eight and ten megapixel camera products coming on the scene, there may not be much enthusiasm among camera buffs for any device offering a paltry three megapixels. However, the $70 Keychain Camera from Hammacher Schlemmer will surely find many a ready buyer eager to pick this latest novelty device.

Continue reading "Keychain Camera: Useful Novelty Gadget" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:24 PM | Permalink

The Hands-Fee Umbrella is a useful concept, however, I trust the umbrella is a quality item since, with or without the "holder", you would expect the brolly to do the job for which it has been purchased and not turn "inside out" at the first puff of wind. Since there is seldom rain without wind, the umbrella should probably be carried in the traditional manner until you are confident of having it strapped to your person and then with both hands free just in case there is an emergency.

Continue reading "Hands-Free Umbrella" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:36 PM | Permalink

The review of the Safe Lites BeaconWear vest over at Web Bike World should be of particular interest to bicycle and motorcycle riders since the issue of visibility could have a direct impact on the avoidance of collisions. 'The Safe Lites BeaconWear vest features a new type of patented electroluminescent lighted safety strip technology called "GlowSkin". These are sewn into the vest on top of the reflective stripes and they are covered with clear vinyl. The GlowSkin strips are not LED lights; GlowSkin is a very interesting product that is very lightweight and not much thicker than a piece of paper, yet the entire fabric glows when the vest is powered on.'

Continue reading "Safe Lites BeaconWear Lighted Safety Vest At Web Bike World" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 5:43 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.'

Continue reading "Geek Toy: Radio-Control Indoor/Outdoor Helicopter" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 11:42 PM | 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.

Continue reading "Bumpbrella Hi-tech Umbrella At RKS Design" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 1:29 PM | 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.'

Continue reading "Pedalite Non Battery-Dependent Bicycle Pedal Light At Tech Digest" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 1:19 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.'

Continue reading " Tom Bihn Empire Builder With Brain Cell & Soft Cell Review At Oh Gizmo" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:45 AM | Permalink

The Knee RX Kneeling Mat from Superior Manufacturing Group (SMG) has been designed for "employees who are required to kneel while working" but I am sure you would do well to have this cushion in your trunk anytime you have to attend to minor repairs on your vehicle. 'Perfect for tool and maintenance carts, or for individual workstations, Knee RX is intended for use on indoor surfaces such as tile and wood flooring, concrete, and metal grating, or for outdoor applications on gravel, asphalt, and grass. Made from a nitrile/PVC foam blend for the highest degree of resistance to oils and greases, Knee RX also provides comfort and keeps you clean while working on dirty, oily surfaces. A full 1 inch thick for the ultimate in comfort, Knee RX is available in a standard foam version, and a heavy-duty version with a NoTrax® exclusive, laminated rubber bottom surface for additional comfort and long-lasting wear in the roughest environments.'

Continue reading "Go Easy On Your Knees With The Aid Of A Knee RX Kneeling Mat" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:41 AM | Permalink

The Micro R/C Helicopter available from Think Geek for $39.99 has been sold out. A note on the company's website informs potential buyers to check back in August when a fresh stock of the mini copters should be ready to fly. 'ThinkGeek's Micro R/C Helicopter is fully assembled and ready to fly in less than 5 minutes. Piloting this mini copter is a snap and it can survive virtually any type of crash unscathed. With full flight control in any direction you can make the helicopter take off from your desk then land on your hand. It can hover in place almost motionless like some futuristic robotic insect. We had 3-year old children fly this helicopter without damaging it. It is like some kind of R/C space time continuum paradox.

Continue reading "ThinkGeek.com: Micro R/C Helicopter" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 3:06 PM | Permalink

No need to be responsible for, or be accused of, precipitating a conflagration this summer as a result of camping pyrotechnics gone awry , when you can substitute the wax candles for the "Aurelle LED Candle flickers" from C. Crane.com. 'Enjoy the soothing atmosphere of real candles without any smoke, waxy mess, or fire danger. Our Aurelle LED Candle flickers like a real candle and sits in a heavy, frosted glass cover with a unique contemporary shape. Set a few Aurelle candles around your patio or deck for a windproof candlelight effect, or decorate a dining table with candles that are even safe to use around kids. Our Aurelle LED Candles never get hot, they’re rechargeable, and “burn” for up to 10 hours when fully charged.'

Continue reading "Play It Safe With The Aurelle Led Candles!" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 9:46 AM | Permalink

The Garmin Quest 2 GPS Navigator comes pre-loaded with City Select North America NT, which features full coverage of the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico—including nearly six million points of interest like gas stations, ATMs, hotels, restaurants, and attractions. ' A number of portable navigation systems, such as the Magellan RoadMate 800, claim they can be used in the car and on foot, but while they may be compact enough, their odd shapes don't make them ideal walking buddies. The Garmin Quest 2, however, is a different story. Its PDA-like form factor makes it a perfect travel companion, whether you're behind the wheel or hoofing it. Maps are now preloaded on the device, one of several nice upgrades over its predecessor. Of course, there are some trade-offs for its diminutive size. The display is rather small and isn't a touch screen. Voice-guided directions are only available when the unit is used with the included vehicle mount. And, it's a bit pricey at $750. Still, thanks to its portability and accurate directions, the Garmin Quest 2 is a solid choice if you're looking for a versatile GPS device.'

Continue reading "CNET: Garmin Quest 2 GPS Navigator Review" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 3:39 PM | Permalink

Popular Mechanics previews the Adidas-Polar tech gadgets aimed at improving the jogging experience which will be available in the latter quarter of the year. 'Until now. Shoemaker Adidas and sports electronics pioneer Polar have created the first system that turns two of the most basic pieces of running gear—shoes and a shirt—into sensors. The shoes record your speed, distance and cadence, and a heart rate monitor gathers data from sensors embedded in the shirt, no wires required. A wristwatch-based computer sucks in the data, and displays real-time info such as distance traveled to help you pace yourself. Useful, if, say, you’re training for a marathon. But what’s the point for the average jogger? In a word, cadence.'

Continue reading "Popular Mechanics.com: Adidas And Polar Offer Runners A "Tech" Advantage" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:22 PM | Permalink

The new PFT (Plug-in Compact Fluorescent Tube) lamps from the lighting products manufacturer, Litetronics, which are available in 2- and 4-pin starter models, provides a welcomed choice in portable light products. Even though there are other fluorescent lamps which basically satisfy the same need for portable lighting, the blinding glow from the incandescent bulb attached to the end of an extension cord may eventually become a thing of the past, with the marketing of affordable PFT lamps. 'When compared to incandescent bulbs, PFT lamps can use 80% less energy and last 13 times as long. Compared to other compacts, the 4-pin PFT lamps offer a 33% longer life. All PFT lamps offer a 2700K correlated color temperature and a high CRI of 85. Lumens range from 230-3,200. Two-pin PFT lamps are available in 5, 7, 9, 13, 18 and 26 watts, and the four-pin lamps are available in 13, 18, 26, 32 and 42 watts.'

Continue reading "News Litetronics PFT Lamps Offer Flexible Lighting Solutions" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 9:59 AM | Permalink

Would you place more priority on your sense of sight or that of hearing especially during the night time hours? I would rather trust my ears to deliver correct signals than the blurry picture in front of a weary set of eyes. Speaking from experience, there is every possibility of you seeing things that don't exist when you would have been awakened in the middle of the night. The Bionic Ear offered for sale at C. Crane for $180, claims to amplify sound which should be a definite plus in aiding your personal security, since you can remain in the dark and determine the true nature of the noises in the next room or on the outside.

Continue reading "Decipher Night Time Noises With The Use Of The Bionic Ear" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 3:41 AM | Permalink

The Neofree NF-4400 Portable Battery Pack is but one of such devices likely to surface as time progresses. With so many wireless gadgets now being lugged around by one and all, not to mention the relative short lifespan of the average battery charge, I can see where the portable power supply would definitely come in handy. Needless to say the additional luggage may not be too welcomed by the mobile individual.

Continue reading "Red Ferret Journal: Neofree NF-4400 Portable Battery Pack" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 5:28 AM | Permalink

CNET reviews the Jabra SP500 Bluetooth speakerphone and while there are some 'cons' in the assessment, the device duly performs the task for which it is intended. 'Like the Bluant Supertooth II, the Jabra SP500 qualifies as a wireless speakerphone, in that it isn't a true hands-free device unless paired to a phone that has built-in voice-command operation. Though it's relatively bulky, the unit is modern and stylish without a single straight line to be found. The SP500 offers a good amount of talk and standby time, which means that forgetting to turn it off shouldn't be a problem. Also in its favor: when the rechargeable batteries eventually wear out, you can replace them with off-the-shelf AA nickel-metal-hydride cells.'

Continue reading "Jabra Communications SP500 Bluetooth Portable Speakerphone" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:28 PM | Permalink

With the lovely scent of nature in full bloom the cloistered indoors is no place to be at this time. Whether you are the adventurous type who ventures out on one of those back-packing trips or simply one who prefer to spend your off time closer to home around whatever degree of foliage there is on the outside, you will require a cooker or grill to augment the outdoor experience. Since I am not a fan of grills my attention has been drawn to the Gaz Turbo 270 Stove which promises a "No priming or fussing! Just turn the knob, light a match, and you'll instantly have full heat output" mode of operation. Since the stove is fueled by butane/propane Gaz® cartridges which are sold separately I just have to remember to stock a few spares.

Continue reading "Camping Gaz Turbo 270/470 HP Stove" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Tech Digest highlights the The WMF espresso machine which is apparently engineered to fit into the car and deliver your latte right there in the middle of the downtown traffic. I am not altogether sure you would not be infringing some traffic regulation while sipping away but for sure you would not want to arrive for your driving test with this device ready to use. Of course, when you have stopped your engine and parked the vehicle, I can see just how the coffee machine would come in handy. 'The WMF espresso machine features in Audi's latest concept car (the Roadjet) and sits neatly in the central arm rest between the passenger. WMF claim their machine is "fully functional" and "provides fresh coffee at the touch of a button". Now presuming you'll have to top this up before you set off on a journey, I would be very worried about a spillage occurring during a traffic slowdown.'

Continue reading "Coffee On The Go! Drink And Drive?" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 11:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Is your raincoat waterproof? Strange question isnt it? Well the truth be told most of the ordinary throw-away rain covers are more of a nuisance anytime time the raindrops come pounding down. When they are not filtering the water to your clothing underneath they are ensuring you become soaked as a result of the rise in temperature due to the non-breatheable fabric from which they are constructed.TravelSmith seeks to addres these two concerns with the $170 Men's Packable Classic Raincoat. 'Made of suede-soft microfiber, and a high tech membrane that's totally waterproof yet breathable - like Gore-Tex® - but at a fraction of the cost. Sealed seams throughout ensure water-tightness. Best of all, each folds into a compact travel pouch that slips easily into any carry-on. All styles are as impervious to fashion trends as they are to rain and wind. Generous fit. Machine wash on gentle cycle.'

Continue reading "TravelSmith.com: Men's Packable Classic Raincoat" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:18 AM | Permalink

It was bound to happen sooner or later but with digital communication being applied to most consumer gadgets the "good ole brollie" was long due for makeover. Enter the "Forecast Umbrella" with the capacity to deliver forecast information to the user. 'The Forecast umbrella provides information about the likelihood of rain so that users can make a simple, informed decision about whether to take their umbrella with them as they leave their home. Using existing WiFi technology to wirelessly pull information from the internet, Forecast's lighted umbrella handle glows more intensely with the increased chance of precipitation offering a clear and unobtrusive signal to the user.'

Continue reading "Forecasts Delivered To Your Hand With Wi-Fi Enabled Umbrella" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 3:36 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (1)

Tech Digest is reporting on the increasing application of technology to the golf course with the introduction of another gadget to assist you with your game. 'For years, the nearest that technology has come to the golf course has to be the motorized trolley. Then came the solar-powered golf bag. Now GPS is available to give you an unfair advantage on the course, courtesy of the sureshotgps. The sureshotgps from Tee2Green is like having a professional caddy in your bag.'

Continue reading "Tech Digest: Sureshotgps [The GPS golf caddy]" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 8:43 AM | Permalink

Before you even consider the idea of acquiring this Mustang, please take note this item does not ship beyond the U.S.A or Canada. Additionally, there are other considerations such as the operation of low-flying objects in and around your neighborhood and of course the supervision of the operation of the airplane.

This gadget is however not intended for the novice Modeler/Flier so if you fall into that category, you should seek to mount the learning curve before donning your "wings".

Continue reading "Flying Gadgets: 5-Channel P-51d Warbird Mustang Arf Nitro Radio Remote Control R/C Airplane Gas RC Plane : Almost-Ready-To-Fly" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:37 AM | Permalink

It was bound to happen sooner or later, [and not a day too soon at that]. The technological revolution has touched the clothing market and produced a very welcomed outcome. Encompassing the idea of "Technology Enabled Clothing." several companies have already surged ahead with products which "incorporate wearable technology".

Continue reading "Keeping warm in a High Tech REI Thermo Jacket" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:17 PM | Permalink