Handy Gadgets

A review of the Mobile Edge Dig Laptop Messenger notebook carrying case has been posted over at PC Mag. 'The Dig's main compartment is divided into two sections. The laptop bag's trademarked Superior SafetyCell computer protection compartment is designed to accommodate 15.4-inch laptops, though my 17-inch MacBook Pro was able to fit snugly. The cushion was thick enough to make my laptop feel really well protected. The second section can hold a paper notebook or a few magazines, but not much else. Underneath the flap, there's a front Velcro enclosed sleeve with a pocket for your wallet, cell phone, and various gadgets, plus another mesh zippered section for your pencils and pens.'

Continue reading "Mobile Edge Dig Laptop Messenger Review - PC Mag" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:12 PM | Permalink

The Gadgeteer have publsihed a review of the Mobile Edge Mini Messenger Bag 'This bag is made of heavy-duty 1680D Ballistic Nylon and is available in four color styles, that include Black with Orange piping, Black with Pink piping, Black with Red front and Black with Silver front. I was sent the Black with Orange. Right away I realized that the Mobile Edge Mini Messenger was not really a true messenger style bag - not that there is a definition carved in stone somewhere out there... This bag is more vertical than horizontal, with a long flap that is held closed by a pinch plastic clip.'

Continue reading "Mobile Edge Mini Messenger Bag Review - The Gadgeteer" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:10 PM | Permalink

TabletPCReview have published a review of the CODi Phantom CT3 Checkpoint laptop bag. 'If you are familiar with CODi products, you would recognize the Phantom CT3 as a CODi design immediately. It is simple, no frills and is made of the same black ballistic nylon as many of their other bags. There is a small red CODi CT3 label on the front and the zipper hardware has CODi engraved on them. The CT3 is basically two bags hinged together at the top so it can fold out into a butterfly design when going through airport security. The two "pockets" - as CODi refers to them - are secured together for normal use with Velcro and plastic side buckles.'

Continue reading "CODi Phantom CT3 - TabletPCReview" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 3:56 PM | Permalink

Press Release

In a tight economy, packing your lunch becomes a popular habit, but just because you’re pinching pennies doesn’t mean you have to brown-bag it. Coleman’s new line of soft-sided coolers offers the perfect lunch tote for anyone’s taste. There’s the standard charcoal-colored “Classic” with rugged reinforced nylon and heavy-duty rubberized bottom, and then there’s the fashion-forward “Excursion” cooler with your choice of brightly colored stripes or flowers on the exterior fabric and two carrying options – by handle or shoulder strap. And that’s just for starters.

Continue reading "Coleman Offers New Soft-Sided Coolers with Durability, Performance, PVC-Free Liners – and a Little Fashion" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:15 PM | Permalink

Press Release

Case Offers Fast Laptop Access with Maximum Protection

TORRANCE, Calif. – June 23, 2008 –The Pelican Products 1510 Laptop Overnight Case (LOC) is a legendarily tough, watertight case designed for road warriors who want to protect their laptops and not waste time at the airport luggage carrousel.

Continue reading "Pelican Products Unveils The 1510 Laptop Overnight Case" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:21 PM | Permalink

PaulStamatiou.com have published a review of the Aerogel Extreme LapDesk. 'Hot laptops are nothing new. Even with smaller processor fabrication, laptops keep getting smaller making it hard to effectively cool them without a large heatsink or loud fan. Case in point - my MacBook Air is a heater and it doesn’t help that the exhaust vent is angled down. I end up moving it around in various awkward lap positions while in classrooms with stadium seats that offer little desk space to place a laptop.

Continue reading "Aerogel Extreme LapDesk Review - PaulStamatiou.com" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:07 PM | Permalink

Trusted Reviews have publsihed a review of the NEC MultiSync LCD3090WQXi 30in monitor. 'NEC has equipped the 3090WQXi with an -S-IPS panel, which, in theory at least, should produce better image quality than an S- PVA panel, especially when being viewed from an angle. However, the Dell UltraSharp 3007WFP-HC sported an S-IPS panel, and the Samsung SyncMaster 305t pretty much ran rings around it image quality wise, despite featuring a S-PVA panel. But that just proves that panel technology isn't the be all and end all, and it's as much to do with how a manufacturer implements that panel. So, while some manufacturers use In Plane Switching panels as a marketing tool, NEC has used the technology with image quality firmly in mind, resulting in the best 30in display I've ever seen.'

Continue reading "Review: NEC MultiSync LCD3090WQXi 30in Monitor - Trusted Reviews" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 6:22 PM | Permalink

Notebook Review have published a review of the Slappa Velocity SPYDER PRO Backpack. ‘The Velocity SPYDER Pro backpack from Slappa is a fairly odd looking, with a rubberized outer shell, and a spider-web design on the front pocket. The rubberized outer layer is designed to resist water, and the front design structure is in place to give the bag support. Like the wide range of other Slappa products, this bag is designed to hold up well against the elements, and keep your notebook safe, even if the conditions are far from perfect. Read on to see if this backpack holds up well under out testing.’

Continue reading "Review: Slappa Velocity SPYDER PRO Backpack – Notebook Review" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:05 PM | Permalink

Notebook Review have published a review of the Booq Boa 3 Backpack ‘The Booq Boa 3 is an odd mix of innovative design and conservative styling. The exterior is made out of black 1680 denier ballistic nylon and waterproof coatings which - while extremely durable - isn't the most pleasing fabric to touch. Many other bag manufacturers have started using materials such as rubberized polyurethane, suede, and other materials with softer or smoother textures to make backpacks feel less like a military rucksack. Not so with the Boa 3.

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Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:50 PM | Permalink

Press Release

Angers, France, March 18, 2008 – Evolis, the European leader in plastic card personalization solutions, announced a custom-designed travel case for its Tattoo2 entry model color printer.

The Tattoo2 printer now fits neatly into the Evolis travel case, which was so far designed to accommodate the Pebble color printer only. The Evolis Travel case also hosts all accessories required to personalize plastic cards (ribbons, cards, Drivers CD, cleaning kit, etc.).

Continue reading "New Evolis Travel Case: Plastic Card printing on-the-go" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:19 PM | Permalink

A review of the Mio Digiwalker C320 satellite navigation device has been posted over at Computeractive. 'The Mio C320 is a sleek-looking, black unit that houses a clear and bright 4.3in touch-sensitive widescreen. The screen can be split into two, giving users the option to have the route displayed on one side while viewing speed, time, points of interest or route information on the other. It's something that may come in handy for those who don’t want to have to navigate out of the journey planner to view those details. The C320 uses a fast and accurate GPS receiver, which can pick up satellite signals at a decent rate, but since this chip is common among navigation units nowadays, we didn’t notice much of a difference when we turned the device on.'

Continue reading " Review: Mio Digiwalker C320 Satellite Navigation - Computeractive" »

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

IT Reviews have published a review of the Acer v200 Satellite Navigation Unit. ‘Acer is the latest to provide an effective solution for the entry-level market in the shape of the V200, which comes in at a very reasonable £119. It's a relatively compact unit and, pleasingly, includes a dedicated volume control and soft power-off switch on the exterior, along with an SD-card slot to upgrade the built-in UK maps. On firing up the V200 we're pleased to report a pretty fast loading time for the maps and an equally fast time to first fix - less than a minute in most cases. You're taken straight to the map view which updates to show your current location as well as offering a range of ways to view further information on your journey or customise the display.’

Continue reading "Acer V200 GPS Review at IT Reviews" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:06 PM | Permalink

A review of the Samsonite Ultima Tote has been posted over at PC Magazine. 'At 1.8 pounds, the Ultima Tote is lightweight, but quite roomy inside. Carrying it back and forth between work and home, I had plenty of room for all my necessi-ties—wallet, tech toys, books, sweater—not to mention my 12.1-inch widescreen Dell Inspiron 700m laptop. What I love about this bag is that its many pockets—for a cell phone, music player, and other gadgets, as well as pens, business cards, and other small, easy-to-lose objects—really keeps me organized. I also like the large zippered inner pocket for easy access to your keys, work ID, gum, or other important items. Finally, there are two narrow pockets on either side of the bag's outer shell, good for stuffing in a small last-minute item, but I would prefer a larger pocket for stowing file folders or a newspaper. Your laptop sits in the padded middle compartment, which can accommodate most 15-inch laptops. The padding is adequate for everyday use, but I wouldn't recommend being too rough with it.'

Continue reading "Samsonite Ultima Tote Review at PC Mag" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 11:20 PM | Permalink

Sarah Meyer writing over at TabletPCReview has posted a review of the Tom Bihn Zephyr Briefcase. 'The outside of the bag is black and steel and has two small YKK Uretek splash-proof zippered pockets. They would be useful for small items like a cell phone, keys, chap stick, flash drive, checkbook, etc. The main buckle opens to a zippered pocket and an open pouch. The zippered pocket is large enough for a novel, power cords, or an extra battery. The pouch is bigger and has compartments that could hold office supplies like pens, notepads, calculators, etc. There is also a strap that you can attach a Tom Bihn organizer pouch or a key ring.'

Continue reading "Tom Bihn Zephyr Briefcase Review at TabletPCReview" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 11:10 PM | Permalink

The Jensen In-Dash DVD/CD Receiver plays DVDs and CDs in your vehicle with the movies being displayed on a 7" screen. Touch screen navigation makes it easier than ever to browse the multimedia functions. ‘With the faceplate stowed away, the Jensen VM9312 looks like any garden-variety single-DIN-size stereo head unit. Two rotary knobs at either end of the faceplate control volume (left) and skip/search (right), although for any sources other then AM/FM radio, the screen is essential for selecting and controlling the media. Two prominent, backlit blue buttons give drivers the ability to change source and mute the current audio on the fly. Dedicated hard buttons for opening and closing the screen, as well as for adjusting display settings, are a nice addition to the very simple faceplate design.’

Continue reading "Review: Jensen In-Dash DVD/CD Receiver - CNET" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 10:24 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

Web Bike World have published a review of the CamelBak Classic Hydration Backpack. 'I chose to go with the CamelBak "Classic", a 2.1 liter (70 ounce) backpack unit designed for bicyclists. In addition to its liquid holding capabilities, it features an external zip pocket for keys or other small items and a wraparound bungee cord system to hold a shirt or sweater on the back. It also has a low profile; mesh shoulder straps and even a few bits of reflective tape. I didn't have experience with a CamelBak and I didn't have my riding jacket with me that day, so I had to imagine how it might work while wearing protective gear and a full-face helmet. While trying various CamelBak units on for size I noticed that some of them had shoulder straps that would probably be much too short to fit around a riding jacket. But the “Classic” version seemed to have straps that would be long enough to fit.'

Continue reading "Review - CamelBak Hydration Backpack - Web Bike World" »

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

Personal Computer World have published their review of the Mio Digiwalker H610 GPS navigation device which can also be used as a portable multimedia player. 'Mio’s Digiwalker range is part of a new wave of GPS solutions that combine traditional in-car navigation, multimedia playback and a collection of utilities for frequent travellers. Based around the MioMap v3 software navigation is pretty straightforward once you get used to the menu structure, but like the Mio C210 it suffers as an in-car solution due to the small screen and often fiddly controls. You do, however, get free speed camera alerts and a full range of POIs (points of interest) across Europe, and can buy a TMC (traffic message channel) module separately to provide traffic updates so it’s well in line with modern advances in navigation.'

Continue reading "Mio Digiwalker H610 - Personal Computer World" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 5:23 PM | Permalink

PC Magazine have published their review of Axion's Geo-632 Portable GPS system. 'Portable GPS navigation units are starting to become a commodity. That's great news for consumers because when products become commoditized, prices generally decline. In fact, plenty of units on the market now sit within the $299-to-$349 price range. Most of these devices have similar hardware configurations; 3.5-inch screens, 1 to 2 gigabytes of SD memory, Navteq or Tele Atlas mapping data, SiRFstarIII receivers, and software that runs on top of Microsoft's WinCE platform.

Continue reading "Axion Geo-632 Portable GPS - PC Mag" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:25 AM | Permalink

The JVC HA-NC80 stereo noise canceling headphones are a relatively affordable pair of headphones which comes with a a dual-prong adapter for in-flight use. 'JVC is a decent brand to consider if you're looking for noise-canceling headphones but are working with a limited budget. The company's HA-NC100 headphones, for example, are comfortable, offer solid sound quality, and can be found for less than $80 online. At $49, an even cheaper option is the JVC HA-NC80. These 'phones aren't as comfortable as the NC100s, but they get the job done.

Continue reading "JVC HA-NC80 Noise Canceling Headphones - CNET" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:43 AM | Permalink

If you are on the lookout for a handy backpack to secure your laptop and/or photographic equipment on that next hiking trip, you can check out a review of the neat Tenba Shootout Bag over at Digital Camera Review. 'The Shootout is constructed of water resistant, sturdy nylon. It’s constructed very well and looks very rugged and I would trust the bag with plenty of expensive hardware. There are plenty of straps to allow adjustment for wearing comfort, for accessories, and to keep your load secure. The nicely padded shoulder straps are augmented with an equally padded waist strap and a sternum strap. You know that when a bag comes with a manual on how to fit the bag to your body, that it’s serious about being comfortable. To add to the comfort factor, every area on the bag which touches your body is covered with wicking, padded panels.

Continue reading "Tenba Shootout Bag - Digital Camera Review" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 11:11 AM | Permalink

A review of the Qstarz GPS receiver has been posted over at Digital Reviews. 'Those who haven't read our previous review of the Qstarz BT-Q818 may not know that Qstarz has been bringing out some innovative GPS receivers of late, including the "Double 32". These are all excellent performers with high sensitivity and great endurance. That means that our expectations for this tiny receiver, are set very high. Perhaps unreasonably high considering its small size.

Continue reading "Review: Qstarz TINY GPS Receiver - Digital Reviews" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:44 PM | 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.

Continue reading "Hardigg Storm Case Secures Your Laptop From The Elements" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 2:33 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.'

Continue reading "Navman F20 Portable GPS Navigation" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 3:53 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.'

Continue reading "Knee Defender Reviewed" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 11:52 PM | Permalink

Sony has launched the new Nav-U [Model NV-U71T] personal navigation system which "helps drivers map destination, locate points of interest, and avoid traffic congestion by providing alternate route choice". 'Ready to use right out of the box, this slimmer, easy-to-use device helps drivers map a destination, locate points of interest, find home again and avoid traffic congestion. With an included RDS-TMC real-time traffic receiver built into a supplied cradle, the device notifies drivers of heavy traffic areas and automatically gives them an alternate route choice. The real-time traffic service requires a separate subscription, but drivers will receive the first 90 days free of charge. For continued traffic service, a subscription will cost $4.95 a month after the initial trial period.'

Continue reading "Sony's Nav-U Personal Navigation System Features Driver Mapping Tools" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:15 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.'

Continue reading "Review: Doberman Security's Alarm Combo - Gear Log" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 12:39 AM | 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.

Continue reading "Review: TomTom Rider Portable Navigation System" »

Posted by Handy Gadgets Admin at 4:23 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