EVGA introduces the new UV Plus+. Take any available USB port on your Desktop or Notebook and turn it into an additional video output for use with another display. With a small footprint and a unique magnetic-stackable design for use with multiple UV16 units, UV Plus+ allows for additional displays to increase productivity by expanding, rotating, or mirroring your virtual workspace through an easy to understand and operate software interface. UV Plus+ is powered by USB and uses Lossless Compression for transferring video signal which provides a crystal clear viewing experience on your additional display. The GPU-less design utilizes a virtual driver and high-performance DDR memory with full support for Windows Vista Aero and high resolution capabilities. With all of these features in one tiny package, the EVGA UV Plus+ is the perfect, easy solution for an additional monitor in only minutes.Under$80 http://tinyurl.com/5frrg8 Hear a Netcast I did on this product: www.twit.tv/dgw608 Here’s one of the smallest printers I’ve ever seen or used. The Printstik is a thin, completely self-contained printing device. It uses thermal technology (remember thermal? Think years ago, and waaaaaaaaaaay bigger.) to burn an image onto especially prepared thermal paper, so you can print on the go. The paper is contained within a cartridge that you slide easily into the PrintStik. But that’s the only cartridge you’ll have to fool with; the reason for the Thermal printing technology is so that ink or toner cartridges aren’t needed. The Printstik is fully Bluetooth connectible. Most importantly, the PrintStik is compatible with PDAs and Bluetooth Ready Smartphones. Because of the small size and limited screen space of most Smartphones, reading email or deciphering directions or schematics can be difficult. Now just print it out and take a look at the full sized sheet of paper.$299.00 www.printstik.com Here something pretty amazing from the clever folks at Eye-Fi. First came the 1GB Eye-Fi SD card. It’s a memory card with WiFi built in! Shoot a picture in your home or office and when you turn around it's already on your computer screen. (Assuming you have WiFi configured.) Or bring your camera home from a trip and when you turn it on, it uses your wireless network to transmit your trip photos to the computer. And it's all done automatically. The second version of the Eye-Fi card went to 2GB and dropped in price to just $80). A newer version at $100 can not only download your photos wirelessly to your computer, but it can also upload them to Flickr, Picasa or other online photo sites, again automatically and wirelessly. But now there's a brand new version called Eye-Fi Explore. Are you ready for this? The Explore makes note of where you took each photo!It's called photo geotagging. Once the photo is uploaded to your computer (Mac or PC)each photo shows the city and state where it was taken. It works best in metro places. Free for one year with the Explore card is the use of any of Wayport’s 10,000 commercial hot spots in the United States. That way your photos will be uploaded before you even arrive home. And if you lose your card, you haven’t lost your pictures! www.eye.fi
Philip is right on with their new SpotOn gizmo. The Philips SpotOn LED Motion Sensing Portable Light offers hands-free lighting without having to push a button, pull a string or hit a switch. The built in motion sensor turns it on for you. It’s great for inside a closet because it will go on automatically when it senses the door opening. (Test it out first to make sure you put in a place where the SpotOn can sense motion. After about 20 seconds of zero motion, it automatically shuts off again. Since the SpotOn uses 3 battery saving LED’s, my guess is you’ll get many months of service of the 3 AAA batteries. They come with the unit, but you can easily replace them later on. Easy installation. You can mount it with stick on tape which is supplied, or use the supplied screws. Dimensions: 3.13 x 2.69 x 0.8 inches. There is no off switch so it’s meant to be used only in places where there is motion for a short time, like a closet, drawer, trunk, etc.List Price: $20.00, but do a web search at your favorite hardware type store, because most of them are selling the SpotOn for under $16.00. I haven’t shopped this place, but they do sell it for $15.99. Right now a Google search brings up places sell it in the UK, but it’s working it’s way over here. This website is in the US: http://tinyurl.com/4qb3uz Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw601 Today’s your last chance to play the “What The Heck Is It?” Game. Guess what the gadget is at the very bottom of www.gizwiz.biz and you can win one of the up to 36 copies of autographed MAD Magazine’s given out each month. Here’s a very easy way to put video on your iPod, PSP, or a USB device! It’s the Pinnacle Video Transfer (PVT). This is the one of the easiest ways to record video I’ve ever used. I was recording video within 5 minutes of opening the box. On the bottom end of the PVT just connect the DC power and a USB flash drive. The other end of the unit has the video connections. There’s the usual RCA, red/white/yellow composite and an S-video input. LED’s are also positioned above each of the video/audio inputs and the USB port. When the unit is turned on the blue LED’s let you know the unit “sees” audio & video and the USB drive. For better quality recordings, as you would expect, Pinnacle advises using the S-video input rather than Composite Video. You get the composite A/V cable, but you have to supply your own S-video cable.After connecting the cables and plugging in a USB storage device, turn the device on by pressing the MODE button. When all the LED’s have turned blue, select the recording quality. Pressing the MODE button lights the LED’s - (one LED for 'Good', two for 'Better' and three for 'Best').To record – hmmm, let’s see. Oh right - press the REC button. All the LED’s then turn red to confirm that you’re recording. To stop, just press the REC button again. There’s a warning not to remove the USB drive until its LED turns blue. But that only takes a few seconds after you stop the recording.When you search the drive on your computer you’ll find the recordings in the Video directory, The unit has no clock, so there’s no time or date stamp of the recording. Each video is numbered according to the sequence in which it was recorded. Although the PVT can record directly to most iPods and the PSP, I only tried it with a USB flash drive and it worked perfectly. I took the USB flash drive from the PVT and was able to watch the show I recorded from my cable box on my laptop. I did a price search on Amazon and see it can be bought for about $115 to $120.00. www.pinnaclesys.com
Something New in Tunes.And it’s Called Toilet Tunes! According to the company, Toilet Tunes is designed to give you privacy and ambience in the bathroom. It’s done automatically using patent pending wireless technology. Toilet Tunes consists of two components, a digital sound machine and a wireless sensor that easily attaches to any toilet. The sensor is waterproof, washable and guaranteed to stay on. The digital sound machine was created by European designer Lukasz Bertolli. (No one I know or heart of.) Here’s how it works. You install the wireless sensor on the toilet cover. When the cover it raised it automatically turns on the sound machine. The sound is used to indicate to others in the house or office that someone is using the bathroom. A locked door would do the same thing, but this does have an good advantage. The digital sounds can cover any ‘natural’ sounds the person using the bathroom might make. You have a choice of music or nature sounds, including Jazz, Latin Guitar, Modern Pop, Ocean Waves, Mountain Stream or Soothing Rain. Lewis Green, a screen writer, is the creator of Toilet Tunes. He recently appeared on The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch where Toilet Tunes was featured on the new product segment: My idea will make millions. To my mind a bigger advantage of Toilet Tunes is that can also use it as a sound machine to help you fall asleep or to cover noises from the street or others in the house. Costs $29.95, plus $9.95 S&H www.gettoilettunes.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dge605
Here’s a super useful inexpensive dual purpose gadget. It’s the SiyoTeam USB Card Reader + Bluetooth. My laptop has a card reader built in, but no Bluetooth. And there tons of laptops that don’t have either a card reader or Bluetooth built-in. Rather than carry a BT dongle and a card reader with you, you can have both devices in one small package. It’s the SIYOTEAM USB Card Reader + Bluetooth Combo. Not exactly a name we all know, but this is pretty nifty gizmo. You get Bluetooth and card reader for SD/SDHC/miniSD/microSD/SDHC / Just about all the versions of the Memory Stick. There is no compact flash slot and it’s for Windows only. It’s very small 2” X ¾ X 7/8. Price is under $18.00. http://usb.brando.com.hk/prod_detail.php?prod_id=00441 Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw619
Perfect for People Who Love Netcasts!It’s Cast Grabber CastGrabber, automatically downloads podcasts onto virtually any MP3 player without requiring the use of a PC.You simply dock your Mp3 player and CastGrabber does the rest, automatically downloading selected podcasts directly from the Internet onto the player with 'set it and forget it' simplicity. Now the company says you can do it without the need for a PC for the connection, That’s true, once you tell the CastGrabber which Pod/Netcasts you want it to record. But it make it easy for podcast enthusiasts to always have fresh content loaded up and ready to go. CastGrabber automatically charges and downloads podcasts whenever a portable MP3 player is docked in it. In addition, CastGrabber will auto-update itself with the latest software changes so that every device will always be current with the most up-to-date software changes. Set up is easy. Owners of non-iPod players can use any Web browser to select or change their podcast subscriptions, while iPod owners can use iTunes for podcast configuration. Via its built-in Ethernet port, CastGrabber connects directly to a user’s router and the Internet.$99.99. www.castgrabber.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw599
How many features you they pack into one radio?
Well, a lot. It?s The Lifegear LED Flashlight/Reading Light /Clock/AM/FM / NOAA Weather Radio with 3 way power! It's easier to remember as the Life Gear Model LGTF38.
But it does have a LOT of features! Let?s list them: 3 super-bright LED flashlight / 4 LED reading or map lamp Cell phone charger ? Comes with an adapter for Nokia but you get another for free for your phone. /NOAA emergency radio with alert, AM/FM and weatherband Alarm clock / Emergency signal flashers and siren / 3 power options: crank, AC or DC / Suggested Price : $59.95 / Do a web search. I found it here for about $41: http://tinyurl.com/47oblyNOTE: I have not shopped at that vendor's website. I found it just doing a price search.
I recorded a Podcast on this gizmo. Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw584
Here’s a Handy Dandy Parking Meter with Alarm!
If your glove compartment is so full of parking tickets you can’t close it, here’s the solution to keep the parking meter maid (or man) at bay. The Parking Meter Alarm has a 24 hour countdown alarm you can set in 5 minute increments to remind you when it’s time to race back to your car and feed the meter. Probably best to set the alarm to go off 5 or 10 minutes before the meter runs out to give you time to put in more quarters. Speaking of quarters, there’s a spring-loaded cylinder that holds 10 quarters so you’re never at a loss for change. There's even a ring to hold your keys. Has an easy to read LCD display. Metal. Measures 1 3/4"H x 1 1/8"diam. Price: $9.95 http://tinyurl.com/5uss9e Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw616 One of the most asked questions of the Giz Wiz is— How do I convert my old VHS tape to DVD? Here’s one very easy way. The new Samsung DVD-VR375. It actually does more than copy VHS tapes to DVD. It’s also a 1080p up-converting DVD Recorder. So this versatile unit records both DVD discs (DVD-RAM/-RW/+RW/-R/+R) and VHS tapes. (If anybody actually records VHS anymore.) It’s an easy and fairly inexpensive way to turn those stacks VHS videos to DVDs. A nice plus is that you can use the DVD-VR375 to play your DVD’s and up-convert them to 1080p. It also has progressive scan. And of course it plays CD’s. Plus it supports Dolby Digital Surround Sound. Connections include DV Input, Composite Video In & Out, and Component Video In & Out. (There’s no S-Video in or out.) Also Coaxial Digital Audio & HDMI CED Outputs. I’d say it’s a lot of features for under $180. Do a web search and you can find it a touch cheaper. (It’s $169.99 at B&H Photo, for example.) Here’s a direct link to Samsung page with more info on the DVD-VR375: http://tinyurl.com/5zqp4s Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw618
Chat on Skype without wires! It’s the Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless headset. It’s true. You can make a PC call while walking around the room or sitting on the couch. The Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless lets you move freely up to 33 feet (10 meters) from your computer. Just plug in the USB transmitter that’s in the box and you’re also set. It will blink green until you turn on the headset. Then it glows green and you’re connected. It connects to a PC or Mac computer right out of the box – no software or pairing required. And to help ensure no call gets interrupted, the ClearChat PC Wireless headset’s 2.4 GHz wireless technology features both crisp, uncompressed stereo audio and an advanced algorithm that minimizes interference –even in the busiest wireless environments, such as an airport, office or hotel. For optimal voice clarity, the headset features a noise-canceling microphone on a flexible boom that adjusts to the desired distance from the mouth. Additionally, volume and microphone mute controls are located on the right earpiece and the microphone automatically mutes when rotated to an upright position. As an added convenience, the microphone emits a soft, red glow when muted. A padded headband and plush ear pads make it comfortable over long chats. Now Leo said he could tell I was on a wireless headset because they never quite equal the fidelity of wired headset. But Leo is using studio equipment at his end. For Skype chatting, watching movies or playing games on the PC, being wireless is a great advantage. Available now. Suggested retail is $99.99, but discounts should appear very soon as it starts arriving in stores in quanity. www.logitech.com When is a Golf Club Not A Golf Club? When it’s The UroClub. This may sound like a joke, but it’s not. Floyd E. Sesking, MD, a Board Certified Urologist, practicing in Florida, wanted to help patients who played golf, but suffered from urinary frequency (a condition that can begin in men, as early as their mid 30’s). There are not many bathrooms on the golf course, so he was inspired to create the UroClub. It’s a portable urinal, designed to be discrete, sanitary and create an air of privacy! It looks like an ordinary golf club and comes equipped with a unique removable golf towel clipped to the shaft that functions as a privacy shield! So with this device a golfer can drink whatever he wishes during the game and not worry if he’ll make it to the clubhouse in time! It's designed from a light weight resin with a molded grip.The cap opens and closes easily and is designed with a triple sealing system to ensure that it is leak proof. The privacy shield hooks to the sides of the pants or belt and adds stability.This allows freedom of the hands to manipulate the club and zipper. It can be emptied at the nearest restroom or later on, when the golfer returns home. Capacity: Over half a liter, twice the volume commonly urinated. Length: Like a standard 7 Iron. Cost is $49.99 for one or $74.99 for two. www.uroclub.org Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw597
SkyScan Atomic Clock, Model 88825.
By now you know that you can easily get precise Atomic Time display on an reasonably priced clock. If you don't know exactly how Atomic Time works, you will in a minute! The US Atomic Clock is the most accurate clock in the world and the official national timepiece. It’s what radio and TV stations have been using for a long, long time. The Atomic clock is operated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Fort Collins, Colorado. Using a low frequency radio transmission from NIST, the US Atomic Clock sends an accurate time signal across the continental United States. The SkyScan Atomic Clock automatically sets itself to the correct time and date by receiving and decoding the NIST radio signal with an internal receiver. It ensures daily accuracy to the fraction of a second by refreshing the signal each day at 2:00 a.m.If no signal is received within 4 minutes, the system will automatically search again at 3:00 a.m., 4:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.The internal quartz-mechanism is very accurate; so it’s no big deal if the clock is occasionally unable to receive the time signals. But when you first get any Atomic clock you have to set it for your local time zone: Eastern, Central, Mountain or Pacific. The calendar shows Month, Day & Date. Temperature shows in F or C and there's an alarm clock and snooze function. You can display time in 12 or 24 hour format and the clock knows all Daylight Saving Time, and will reset automatically. Leo said to he it at Sam’s Club (I hope I remembered correctly) and it was only about $30. www.skyscan.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw It’s a great wide screen computer screen AND a high res TV monitor. About a month ago Tiger Direct had a great deal on a 22” HP monitor. But I’ve learned that a great deal on a brand name monitor might mean a new one has replaced it. I did a little research and found the one at Tiger Direct had a DVI input, while the new version replacing it had an HDMI input.I got the chance to get a hands on demo of HP 2408h 24” flat screen LCD. It lets you view everything very clearly with its 1920 x 1200 resolution. You can display two full pages side by side or work on wide spreadsheets. But this what I really about this monitor. Rotate the screen into portrait mode and you can view tall documents or web pages. I find it make editing my website much easier because I can see about 60% more of my website without scrolling. Now HP says it’s Plug and Play and that can start using it right out of the box without any drivers. While that’s true, I discovered that when I rotated the monitor the internal menu knew whether it was in vertical or horizontal mode, but Windows XP didn’t. So I downloaded the included software and then the monitor then could recognize the position of documents and websites. When you rotate the monitor, the picture goes black for about 10 seconds and then comes back in the proper orientation. The monitor can also automatically adjust to the light in your home/office environment. So look for the 2408h if want digital (HDMI) and traditional analog (VGA) dual inputs.The double hinge base allows virtually unlimited viewing angles. There are integrated speakers but you’ll want to hook up a higher end sound system to match the excellent video quality of this monitor. Also built into the monitor are four USB ports. $500.00A 22” version is available for $330. At HP Shopping there is free shipping. (As I write this.) http://tinyurl.com/6ewt8b
What do you need to wake up in the Morning? Maybe a Fire Bell? The Fire Bell Alarm Clock will look real great on the night stand. And the alarm should be enough to awake even a very sound sleeper. It features a snooze function as well as easy-to-use controls. Just hold down the time button and then the hour & minute buttons to set the time. Hold the "alarm" button to set the alarm the same easy way. It's bright red and with a "silver" button that acts as the button to stop the alarm and to reset the 'snooze' feature. It can also be pushed to light the time display -- in red, of course. 7" tall x 2.75" deep x 5.5" wide. Requires 2 AA batteries (not included). And no, it's not a real fire alarm. The bell is plastic and the bell sound is created via an audio chip, but it should wake you! $14.95. http://www.vat19.com/dvds/fire-bell-alarm-clock.cfm Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw594
From Vat19.com
Now you can “air condition” the air you breathe on an airplane. It’s Plane Clean Air! This is a filter system you bring on the airplane and slip onto the air vent over your head. Here are some answers from the company: How does the filter work? The filter has been tested in an FDA certified lab and can remove 99.5% of all airborne viruses, bacteria, allergens and particulates from the air stream that flows onto the passenger’s face. How long will the filter last? The adhesive gaskets that attach to the filter to the air nozzle will last for about five (5) flights each. The filter comes with two gaskets that will last approximately 10 flights before new ones must be purchased. How much does the filter cost? The filter housing costs $19.95.Filter replacement packs come with a single replacement filter and twoadhesive gaskets good for a total of 10 flights. Cost for a pack is $6.95. Cost per flight breaks down to about $0.70 per flight. Will the airlines let me use the product? The manufacturer (Travel Health Products, Inc.) has conducted several hundred test flights on several airlines. Air crews on these flights did not express concern over the use of the filter on the aircraft. Plane Clean Air $19.95 Check the company’s website for more info: www.planecleanair.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw586 It's about time someone created a tool to help new parents remember the basic details of baby care. Now someone has. And it’s called the ITZBEEN Baby Care Timer. It was developed by a new mom and dad who found themselves sleep-deprived and needing help to remember baby care details, such as when their baby last ate or napped. They tried charts and journals, but thought there had to be a better way. So, they created the ITZBEEN: a multi-purpose nursery tool that helps new parents remember the basic details of baby care. There are four timers that count up with the touch of a button. Other helpful features include: belt clip, nursing reminder switch, illuminated display, clock, and a soft nightlight for changing diapers in the dark. Comes in three colors include blue and green. $25.99, plus S&H. www.itzbeen.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw588
Be a spectacle at night! A safe spectacle! When you go biking at night you’re sure to be seen if you equip your bike with SpokeLit from Nite Ize. It’s easy to install and remove in seconds. And it’s designed to stay securely in position even during off-road use. And you don’t have to worry about the weather. It’s both water resistant and shock resistant. There’s a three-way switch that lets you turn the light on in the “steady” mode or the “flashing” mode, and then off. Long life replaceable cell batteries included. Uses 2 CR2016 batteries which are replaceable. Best of all is that they are very inexpensive. You’d probably want to buy at leave two, one of the front and one of the back wheel. I found them here for $5.39 each: http://www.batteryjunction.com/skl-03.html Here’s a video of a group of bikers using Spokelit: http://www.youtube.com/user/SueBM321 Manufacturer’s website: www.niteize.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw589
Ahoy Matey!
I just returned from my trip on the QM2 (Queen Mary 2)! Ports of call included Nova Scotia, Boston, and Brooklyn. Talk about technology! The QM2 has some amazing stuff. Kingston Technology Unveils DataTraveler Micro Reader Making Mobile Phone Memory Card Use More Flexible The DataTraveler Micro Reader, is a different kind of USB Flash Drive. Part of it is a regular 1, 2 or 4 GB USB Flash drive but it also includes areader that can store, transfer and read content on mobile memory cards, otherwise known as Micro SD. Unofficially they’re also known as the memory card you can lose in a split second.. And the DataTraveler Micro Reader is enhanced for Windows ReadyBoost. The onboard expansion slot reads microSD, microSDHC, or Memory Stick Micro cards. It is the perfect device for users who want to minimize the number of devices they carry and still have a USB drive handy for storage and a reliable method to transfer songs, videos, photos, and more between a mobile phone and computer. Works on PC or Mac and mobile phone. When you plug into an available USB port it will show up as two drives. One for the onboard memory and one for the Micro card slot. Available in 1GB, 2GB, & 4GB models.1GB$ 20.00/2GB$ 29.00 /4GB$ 42.00 www.kingston.com I did a Netcast (Podcast) on this gizmo. Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw574 A Technology Flashback!
Okay, so the price of gas is outrageous. But us gadget lovers are saving A LOT OF MONEY on another front. Our gadgets! For example: It’s October 2001 and Compaq announced their first MP3/WMA/AAC player, the Ipaq Personal Audio Player PA-2. Nice and catchy name, huh? The PA-2 ships with 64MB of memory. But that can be extended to 128MBs by adding an additional 64MB Multi-Media Card. That way you’ll have an amazing 128MB’s of memory, enough for a couple of hours of music! The unit was small, about the size of a pager. The included 64 MB memory card held one hour of MP3 and two hours of WMA audio. So how much did this MP3 cost back in June, 2001, just seven years ago. $249.99!Today for about $40 you can buy the iPod Shuffle or the Sansa clip with more than 10 times the memory! So some things have decreased a lot in price! Hear theNetcast I did on this gizmo: www.twit.tv/dgw575
Need we say it? iPod not included!
What? Another iPod Gadget? Yes, and this one is pretty neat!It’s called PowerTune.It’s a 4-in-1 iPod device that includes: portable stereo speakers, Li-ion battery &charger, protective case and stand. It supports iPod 5th Generation (video) and iPod classic (video). When you open the protective clear plastic case, the cover swivels and turns into a desk stand. The built-in 1050mAh Li-ion battery approximately doubles iPod play time. You can recharge the built in battery with the included USB cable. On the back is a switch for power off, charge, and speaker mode. Now these are two ‘tiny’ 500mW speakers, so they’re for listening to the iPod in small areas like your cubicle when you don’t want it to be loud. There’s also a built in volume control. And you can sync your iPod to a computer while it in the PowerTune with included USB mini-B cable. Dual color LED indicator for Speaker (blue) and Charge (red) mode $34.99. Do a web search. At the I wrote this it was available at ecost.com for about $22.That’s a real good deal. http://www.macally.com/EN/Product/ArticleShow.asp?ArticleID=186 I did a Netcast on this product. Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw571 I haven't tried this next product, but Leo Laporte loves it!
It’s the Dash Express. I don’t have one, but Leo says this unitis packed with features that help you drive smarter: He liked TruTraffic: it actually gathers traffic info from other Dash users! Dash Express leverages the most comprehensive traffic solution ever—the innovative Dash Driver Network—to provide the most accurate and current traffic information available. Internet Connected: Dash gives you the most current, locally relevant information by using the power of the Internet, including Yahoo! Local search and other websites you know and trust. AutoUpdate: Advanced and always up to date. And Dash automatically downloads the latest software, features, maps, and traffic data to the device. And he thought this feature was outstanding: MyDash: Plan and personalize from your PC. Use Send2Car to send any address from the Web or e-mail directly to your device in seconds. Use the MyDash website to find or create new search lists and categories. Leo would plan trips from his computer in his office and when he went out to his car, the info was in the Dash Express. Pretty neat and just about $400.00 www.dash.net Leo and I did a Netcast on this product. Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw572 USB Plasma Ball from Vat 19. Now that we’re letting people watch us record the Daily Giz Wiz (MOST OFTEN, TUESDAYS AT 4 pm EDT) I try to get more visual gadgets. One of the most visual is the USB Plasma Ball. The website says you can throw bolts of plasma like Zeus throws bolts of lighting.Well not quite but you can still enjoy the coolness of the Plasma Ball in a desk-sized USB-powered configuration. Simply plug it into any convenient USB port, flip the on/off switch, and enjoy! Move your fingers around the ball and watch the ‘lighting’ go right for your digits! It’s quite fun. Great for the office to impress co-workers. It’s only USB powered (no external power source needed). PC and Mac compatible (as long as you have a USB port) 4" diameter x 5.5" tall/ On/off switch /4 foot long USB cable. Best of all, the price.Just $11.99. Oh, by the way, after doing a demo for Leo on twitlive I found the video link was down.Oh, well. http://www.vat19.com/dvds/usb-plasma-ball.cfm I did a Netcast on this product. Hear it here: Iwww.twittv/dgw573
Hate it when the shower water is Cold? Yes cold water is uncomfortable, too hot water is dangerous. The folks at Hot Stop say that hot tap water scalds are the second most common cause of severe burn injuries among people of all ages. HotStop shower head, hand shower, and tub spout you can help prevent these accidents. When hot water reaches an unsafe temperature HotStop quickly reduces the water flow to a trickle to avoid scalding. Once the water in the line cools, the flow re-starts automatically. I tried one and it does cut the hot water off when the water if keep quite hot. Then it takes about a minute or until the cold mixes again with the hot to make it safe. Then the flow starts again. HotStop is very easy to install. Three different models. Shower, Shower with hose, and Tub Version. About $35 to $45 www.h2otstop.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw576 Leo Loves his new HD Radio. It’s from Radiosophy. (I can’t pronounce it either.) It’s the model HD100, which Leo says is probably the most affordable HD Radio receiver on the market. It's a high-definition digital radio that provides superior reception of HD digital AM/FM and existing AM/FM signals. This next-generation radio receives the additional digital channels many FM stations now offer on their current frequency. The crystal-clear sound of HD Radio has virtually no static, fade, hiss, or pops--with improved signal quality that makes AM sound like FM and FM sound like a CD. Unlike satellite radio, HD Radio is free; there is no subscription fee. An internal FM and external AM antenna provide optimum reception in any environment. Seek control can search for all stations or digital (HD) stations only. Indicator lights for stereo and digital signal detection. The backlit graphical display highlights scrolling text such as station ID, song title, artist and important weather or traffic updates. Intuitive controls include full clock-radio functions, alarm and snooze control and ten station presets (five AM and five FM). $99.00 www.radiosophy.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw577 Here’s another solution of the problem of the huge transformer plug that blocks two outlets. It’s called The Rotator. Just plug it into any ordinary outlet. Then plug the big clunky transformer plug into the Rotator. The Rotator plug rotates outlets 360 degrees. Simple to operate, just plug it into your existing wall outlets and they are ready to use! Outlets rotate 360° allowing you to plug in those oversized plugs & adaptors. Now you don’t have to give up two outlet for one bulky plug! Perfect for Laptops, Cell phone chargers, cameras, calculators, hairdryers, and any other odd shaped plugs. At their website you can read more about it. Then there’s a link to buy it at Herrington’s.The price is $35 for 4 Rotator Plugs. www.rotatorelectric.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw578
Here’s a way to speed up drilling holes and driving screws!
It’s called the Twist-Lok Drill and Drive System. It lets you switch from drill bit to fastening bit and back faster than ever before. With this new Drill and Drive System, you drill a hole, then slide the Twist-Lok driver over the drill bit. A quick twist locks it in place. Then drive the screw into the hole you just drilled. A new magnetic collar even holds the screw in place for you. (Most screws will work with the magnet.) Once the screw is in place switch back to the drill bit. It’s fast and easy. The Twist-Lok Drill and Drive System works with any drill that has a 3/8" or 1/2" chuck capacity. The newest model is the Model 4000. It’s $34.99. There are other models starting under $30 and more expensive models that include a drill set. If the Model 4000 is not on the company’s website, it will be shortly.
Here’s an easy to use, inexpensive way to be seen outdoors at night.
Safe-T-Bug.Just clip this small device onto to a baseball cap, backpack, bag, etc. and you have five flashing ultra bright red LED’s safety light to protect you when walking or jogging at night. Provides 360 degrees visibility from more than ¼ mile awayAttaches to ANYTHING with the magnet, adhesive disk or stick pin. All three are included. And the company says the Safe-T-Bug is even waterproof! This is a brand new item, so it may take a week or two to appear on the company’s website. $14.95.
A New Atomic Seiko Clock from Magellans The Seiko Global Atomic Travel Alarm Clock w/Flashlight keeps perfect time via the Atomic Clock, but there’s more! It’ has a built-in, automatic LED flashlight. This new, easy-to-set alarm clock picks up radio signals from atomic time transmitters in the United States, Europe, Japan and the Far East, adjusting automatically to each region where there is a transmitter (it functions as an accurate quartz clock in other countries.) A handy flashlight built into the base shines a bright blue LED light whenever you pick up the clock and turns itself off when you set it down. There’s a constant “on” switch if you need it. At the push of a button there’s soft backlighting. Add in five-minute snooze, date, calendar and temperature display and it’s a nice travel item. Includes four AAA batteries. Clock is 4¼ x 2") Under $45. www.twit.tv/dgw551
Now you can welcome 'animals' into your workspace. No, we’re not talking about not the noisy guy in the cubicle next to yours! We’re talking about Animal Clips - playful, soft little animal heads that will hold all sorts of desktop wires in place for you! They’re from the folks at Cable Organizers and they're all-purpose clips to hold lots of stuff. Best of all, they are very inexpensive!! They help because they'll be less wires to get tangled in things! They use hook and loop attachment for versatility. And there are 30 designs to choose from. Kids love them! I love them. You’ll love them! A great way to get kids to organize their gadgets. Can be used for USB flash drives, cables, ear bud headphones, etc. Cost?55 cents each!!!! (Plus shipping). The best deal is to get all 30 for $14.50 (Plus shipping.) http://cableorganizer.com/animal-clips/?term=animals www.twit.tv/dgw553 - If you'd like to hear a podcast on this product.
A chicken holds some extra USB cable.
Now You Can Take It With You!
With the Neuros OSD. Start by connect the Neuros OSD to your DVD player, VCR, cable box or video camera. Then plug your storage device into Neuros OSD. Storage device includes USB flash drive, external hard drive, and memory cards. Then hit “play” on the DVD/video player/etc and hit “record” on the Neuros OSD. The output from the DVD/video will record to your storage in real time. Once your video content is archived, it appears in a menu on your OSD via your computer screen. Play back your video anytime on your TV, PC or laptop, or your portable video playerBecause the OSD saves the recordings in the popular compressed video format MPEG-4, the programs can be watched on a host of devices, including iPods and smartphones. So if tired of stacks of DVDs and VHS tapes piled everywhere, and falling everywhere, the Neuros can become your electronic housekeeper. You can record an entire library on a U.S.B. hard drive. And here’s something different. Neuros Technology provides full documentation of the hardware platform for its recorder, the Neuros OSD. OSD stand for “open source device” so anyone can feel free to customize it, and hopefully improve it for others. List $229. Do a web search. I saw it for as low as $175.00 www.neurostechnology.com Hear a Netcast on this product: www.twit.tv/dgw546 Here’s a Flashlight with a Built-in Tripod! And it’s called the Stanley Tripod Flashlight! This new Stanley Tripod Flashlight more powerful that it’s predecessor. If you want the latest one look for model 95-146. It offers twice the light output at the same or just slightly higher price as the previous model. Features include: High power LED with 40 Lumens of light output. Hands-free tripod design. Push a button, the legs spring open and you have a tripod to hold the flashlight for you. Aim it where you need light with the 4 position rotating head. 369 technology lets the flashlight run on 3, 6, or 9 AA batteries. More batteries equals longer burn times, not a brighter light. A nice feature is the low-battery indicator. This rugged flashlight is easy to hold with the water-resistant and slip-resistant rubber grip. Also has a shatter-resistant lens. The 3-position switch - low, high, off.Price around $25 to $30.It is just starting to ship in April. http://shmyl.com/mqrpson Hear a Netcast on this product: www.twit.tv/dgw548
A Whole New Kind of Lighting System --- Energizer Light On Demand Energizer is introducing seven different Light On Demand products that only are great for everyday lighting, but double as emergency lighting too. I’ve seen 3 of the 7 products and they are very easy to install. A couple of the devices just need to be plugged into an AC outlet. Since they use LED’s, they’re energy efficient and affordable. The basis of each device is the unique LED light stick which contains a backup, rechargeable battery pack. That means your light can come on automatically during power outages or other emergencies All the Light on Demand products automatically default to rechargeable batteries in the instance standard electricity is cut off. But the light sticks do double duty. They function in their specific product, but they can also be detached and serve as an area light and/or a flashlight when the power goes out, providing continual, emergency lighting. The pricing is reasonable. All the Light on Demand devices will be under $50. Target will carry them first, and then they’ll be rolled out more widely. www.lightondemand.com. I recorded a Netcast on this product: www.twit.tv/dgw539
SanDisk Introduces Another Great Audio/Video Player – The Sansa Fuze.
With each new device, SanDisk ups the ante for performance. They say you can now listen, watch and play all day with 24 hours of battery life and room for up to 2000 songs. (Your battery life will vary, depending on what you listen to and watch. Video will reduce that number. The new Sansa Fuze from SanDisk is a portable music machine with 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of storage. Watch your favorite video clips on the Sansa Fuze’s 1.9" color screen. (You’re not going to want to watch wide screen epics on this screen, but to watch a recorded TV show while waiting for the bus, it’s ideal!) There’s a built in FM radio with 40 preset stations, a built-in voice recorder, and you can share your photos wherever you go. The Fuze marks the next wave of music & video players. The pricing is very aggressive!2GB BLACK$79.99/4GB BLUE$99.99 / 8GB Silver model $129.99. A few other colors are available. Check their website:
Here’s Something Very Inexpensive That Will Be Worth It’s Weight in Gold if You Need It! The TT Pack. (Toiletry Travel Package).This little plastic pack is great for those unknown restrooms when you travel. Throw one in your pocket, even for a day trip. Perfect for luggage, the glove compartment, backpack, etc. Then when you open that door and find the restroom from hell, you're set. Inside each packet you’ll find • Toilet seat cover • Toilet seat wipe • Germicidal Hand wipe • Tissue • Paper towel • and Disposable glove! When I first found them the manufacturer was selling them wholesale for a buck a pack, plus shipping. But I'm afraid we drove so much traffic to their website that other websites selling the TT Pack got annoyed. So now they're only available at retail. Best price I found was 10 for $25, or $2.50 each. But trust me, if you go into a filthy restroom and really need to use it, you'll find it was a great investment! www.ttpacks.com Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw558www.ttpacks.com
Here’s a Great Way to Cover Strange Sounds When You Travel.
Marsona Sound Machine helps muffle unfamiliar hotel noises with regular, soothing sounds that help you get a good night's sleep, even if you've got a case of jet lag. You can count on traffic noise, comings-and-goings in the hallway, and noisy neighbors. Add a case of jet lag and you're likely to have big problems getting a good night's sleep. That's why so many experienced travelers depend on their Marsona Sound Machines to mask these sleep-disturbing noises. Just plug it in, select the natural sound you'd like to lull you to sleep (from "rainfall" to "waterfall" to "surf"), adjust the volume, and sink into the peaceful, calming sounds of nature. Includes dual-voltage power pack, nylon travel pouch.
With the travel season upon us, here’s a neat new travel item. MyTags travel bag tags. They’re made of heavy duty polyester webbing with heavy duty steel split key ring (to prevent getting caught in the baggage handling systems). The key ring is stronger and far more catch-free than leather straps with buckles. Inside every MyTag travel bag tag are two clear pockets, the first for name and address, the second for your current trip itinerary. If your bag gets separated from you, the carrier knows how and where to get a hold of you or to forward your bag to you. You can order them with catchy slogans already on them, such as: GRAB THE NEXT ONE, DIRTHY CLOTHES, NOT YOURS, etc.Or you can have them custom embroidered like one that says The Giz Wiz. I think this is another great idea for travel. 3 Tags for $29.95, plus S&H.
Help for the AC outlet challenged hotel room. The Belkin Mini Surge Protector with USB Charger. Hotel rooms and airport terminals never seem to have enough power outlets to plug in andcharge all the devices us geeky types bring along when we travel. Belkin knows that too because those folks are on the road a lot. Thanks to their new gizmo you can now you can add 3 AC outlets, two USB charging ports, and peace of mind on business trips and vacations with the Belkin Mini Surge Protector. It has a rotating plug so you can face the device in the direction that is most convenient. And there’s a green LED to let you know the surge protection is on. It even comes with a full size to mini USB charging cable. And I’m sure you know this, but Belkin has this important warning on their website: Important: This product’s USB outlets cannot be used as a USB hub and does not transmit data. The powered USB outlets on this unit are intended solely for charging devices that can be charged via a USB interface$24.99. www.belkin.com
