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June 13, 2006

Monitor Your Mains-Power With The Help Of A "Kill A Watt" Meter

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How many times have you had to query the increasing charges for your usage of electric power? With the price of crude oil today the increase of your home energy bill may be a natural consequence of the increasing cost of delivering energy to your home. There is however the remote possibility that some malfunctioning device on your home network may be precipitating the increase energy consumption. The Kill A Watt meter available for $29.95 from C. Crane is a neat, handy little gadget which seeks to assist you in deciphering just where your energy leaks may be occurring. 'The Kill A Watt Meter can help you reduce your power bill. It will help find power-wasting appliances then you decide whether it is worth keeping them plugged in. Great for keeping track of voltage sensitive instruments too. The Kill A Watt Meter displays Volts, Amps, Watts and frequency and it will also keep track of the total kilowatt hours used. Measures VA and PF for the electrical theorists. Works for devices that use up to 125 volts and draw a maximum of 1875 watts. Six-month warranty. Weight: 2.2 ozs. Size: 2.25" W x 5" H x 1.5" D'.

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May 12, 2006

Miller's '29 Roadster Design Auto-Darkening Helmet

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If you are into arc welding and have $320 to spare you might consider spending it on the image-enhancing-chic-looking Roadster Design Auto-Darkening Helmet. 'Available exclusively through Miller welding distributors, the '29 Roadster helmet is part of the Big Window Elite family that features a 30% larger viewing area than Miller's XLi and XLix Series lenses. The Elite has four independent arc sensors to provide continuous arc-sensing capability for demanding welding applications. The #4 ultra-clear "light-state" makes setup and repositioning of hands and parts more efficient while providing continuous UV and IR protection.The '29 Roadster helmet features the Performance Series Lens technology, including replaceable batteries with solar assist for exceptionally long life (3,000 hours on MIG) with no recharging required. The '29 Roadster helmet easily handles low-amperage DC Inverter and TIG applications (5 amps and below) and has a reaction time of 1/20,000 second.'

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January 16, 2006

Porter-Cable 7518 3-1/4 HP Speedmatic 5-Speed Router

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The Porter-Cable's 7518 has a powerful motor and comes with a reputation for accuracy and dependability. The router is designed to work with bits as large as 4 inches in diameter and has electronic soft start and five speeds to ensure that you'll be able to use those giant panel cutters safely and smoothly. As with all electrical tools you must always remember to exercise maximum caution when they are plugged into electrical sockets and/or in operation.

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January 02, 2006

Cordless Screwdriver: Skil 2936 3.6V Articulating Screwdriver with Site Light

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I dont mind using hand tools around the home but it is hard to avoid the urge to acquire the high-tech versions when they become available. In addition to the ease of use, the cordless power tools come with differnt conserns to thier manual equivalents. The primary issue relates to the battery which may or may not hold out for long periods of vigorous use. There is no easy solution to this issue but you should monitor your power tool and be able to guage how long the charge will hold up especially after purchase to determine whether you have made a reasonable choice.

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December 30, 2005

DEWALT DC727KA Heavy-Duty 3/8" 12V Cordless Compact Drill/Driver Kit

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The recent entries to the market of the cordless power drill/drivers are a definite improvement on the earlier versions of the “last century”. There is more power (here you should exercise some caution when handling) and nice ergonomics which lend to a more vigorous application to the various jobs.

Description:

'What a super compact size—it looks like a toy and drills like a beast. At just about 3-1/2 pounds, it's like a feather to hoist overhead, but there is absolutely no sacrifice in torque, delivering 350 inch-pounds. We like the speed range choices, from 0 to 400 rpm in low gear and 0 to 1,400 rpm on high. The keyless chuck operates smoothly, and you get a flawlessly secure bit grip every time with the ratcheting mechanism. The grip is comfortable, and the whole tool feels supremely balanced for all-day comfort. It would be perfect for cabinet installers and HVAC ductwork because of its compact size, but we also think it's a great choice for the homeowner, especially those with smaller hands. DeWalt construction is rugged and durable, so you'll have this little worker around for years and years.--Kris Jensen-Van'

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December 05, 2005

High Tech Measuring Tape: Electronic Sonic Measure. DM S40

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Do you remember the days of yore when you pulled out the old Stanley measuring tape to ascertain the distance between two points? I always got a thrill from releasing the metal clip at the beginning of the tape and allowing the spring-recoil mechanism to return the tape to the metal-box container in my hand.

Well, it seems modern innovation has done away with the need for a forty-meter long stretch of metal tape and replaced it with the "ultrasonic technology".

Description of Electronic Sonic Measure. DM S40:

"Electronic Sonic Measure. DM S40 utilizes ultrasonic technology to measure up to 40´ with a click of a button. Converts between feet/inches and metric system. Continuous measurement capability. Measures in feet and inches, also measures in meters and centimeters. Accurate to +/- 0.5%. Easy-to-read LCD screen. Great for estimating paint, wallpaper, tile, carpet, and flooring. Uses one 9V battery (not included)."

This gadget is on sale at Hector' hardware for $29.99

Soure: Hector's Hardware: Shopzilla

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November 29, 2005

Gadget Holiday Savings: Stanley 89-803 62 Piece Professional Grade Mechanics Tool Set

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The holiday spirit has certainly taken hold and retailers both on and offline are slashing prices on most items with the online retailers extending the option of free shipping to small purchases.

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November 26, 2005

High tech Hammer: Stiletto TB15MC TiBone 15-Ounce Titanium Milled-Face Hammer (Curved Handle)

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No, I cannot report on an electric hammer as yet, but "high technology" has nevertheless made some improvements to what must be the most commonly used hand tool.

Product Description: "Engineered for the user, this titanium hammer is a precision nail-driving tool. Its solid titanium construction offers extreme durability and its ergonomic injection-molded grip offer great comfort and even greater control. This hammer features a lightweight 15-ounce head, yet its driving force equals 24-ounce steel. Removeable steel nose piece allows the user to replace the face in a few minutes. Also features a convenient magnetic nail starter."

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