the gadget guy

Sony Voice Recorder With Camera

2005-04-04T09:17:00.000-04:00

Sony Voice Recorder
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

This is kind of a strange concept. It's not a video camera, but a voice recorder with camera. I spend a lot of time dictating in my line of work and have never once thought to myself, "I wish I could take a picture" while I'm dictating.

From the press release:

"Those looking for convenience and organizational features for recording speeches, dictations, interviews or class lectures need search no further. Sony's new line of digital voice recorders provide compact, durable and visual components in high-quality recording.

Bringing voice recording to new heights, the ICD-CX50 model is a voice recorder with the added benefit of a built-in camera and color LCD screen.

To see a presenter, a 1.2 effective megapixel CCD camera is incorporated into the unit. The camera contains a 4X digital zoom to get closer to the object being photographed, and a 256MB flash memory to store up to 4,000 pictures (640 x 480 JPG). From thumbnails to folder names, information is displayed on the LCD, making it easier to navigate to and from desired screens."

It still seems odd to me, if you need to record and take pictures, why not just video tape the lecture? No pricing yet.

This One Goes To Eleven

2005-04-04T09:07:00.000-04:00

Powermate
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Most of us (especially us guys) can't resist the temptation to play with knobs. See a knob, turn a knob. Whether it is a car radio or a home stereo, it is almost as if we are preprogrammed to fiddle with them.

Griffn Technology has released what might be the ultitmate knob - the PowerMate:

"PowerMate is the coolest volume knob your computer has ever seen - but it's so much more. You can use it to edit home movies or scroll through long documents or create your next audio masterpiece. How can PowerMate be this cool? Because it's an assignable controller that you can program to do anything you want, in any application. Customize it to your needs and go wild!"

Pretty cool and useful. About $45.00, click on the headline for link.

Monday Morning Distractions - Squares

2005-04-04T08:57:00.000-04:00

My new favorite flash game should get you going this Monday morning. Take a driving disco/tech beat, add a simple concept - you are a black square, use your mouse to hit other black squares - don't hit a red square or game over, and voila! a great distraction for this week. Go ahead and play. You can thank me later.

Update - I screwed up. Big Time. Wrong link. Now it is correct. Still a great game. Give it a shot. My apologies!

Click on the headline for link.

Cheap Electronics Secrets - Sales Circular

2005-04-02T15:21:00.000-05:00

Sales Circular
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Hey, Gadget Guy, how do you know if that computer. mp3, camera, etc., is a good price? Well, besides checking Frrogle, I head on over to SalesCircular.com to see what some of the big brick and mortar stores are having on sale for the upcoming week.

It has listings for every state and a breakdown by electronics category. You never know what might be on sale -

Click on the headline for link.

Flash Player With Speaker

2005-04-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

Aiwa AW690
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

The Aiwa AW60 flash player includes a micro-speaker among its features, but to save space it was incorporated into the cap that goes over the USB plug. Sure, it probably sounds like crap, but at least it's there if you need it. I'd guess it's more useful for playing voice recordings than Jay-Z. There's only one other player with something similiar, the M-Bird XT-21.

The 4-color OLED screen is nice addition but the controls look a little simplistic to be much good for navigation. Other features include FM radio, line-in recording, 128mb-1gb capacity. No pricing or release date. (Via dapreview)

April Fools' Gadgets To Annoy Your Friends

2005-04-01T12:06:00.000-05:00

supriser
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

The Surpriser - light activated hysterical laughter that is timed to go off about 10 seconds after the light is turned on. Set it up in yout bathroom late at night - and wait for the fun (and the subsequent butt kicking).

About $10.00. Click on the headline for link.

But Does It Also Clean Your Balls?

2005-04-01T11:43:00.000-05:00

Robo Caddy
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Some days, I think my favorite part of writing about gadgets is thinking about the headlines to go along with them. Anyway, I am absolutely convinced that golf has some of the coolest, innovative and expensive gadgetry as any sport. Take this little number:

"This remote control cart shoulders your golf bag for you, so you can put all your energy into your game. The lightest and most maneuverable powered caddy available, the cart can make 360° turns and can even go in reverse (unlike other models) at the touch of the remote control.

Its pocket-sized remote control gives you complete forward, left, right, and reverse command up to 100 yards away, and the caddy can travel up to 6 mph."

Only $1,500.00, available from Hammacher Schlemmer. Click on the headline for link.

Follow That Lamp

2005-03-31T12:29:00.000-05:00

Solar Lamps
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Pretty cool looking collection of Solar Powered Motion Sculpture Lamps. From the website:

"This unique collection of solar powered decorative lamps provide soft, indirect lighting. The whimsical, animated wire sculptures are powered by directing a swiveling solar panel towards a sunny window or the lamp's bulb. A collection of original gifts!"

About $40.00. Click on the headline for link.

Roger That!

2005-03-31T11:56:00.000-05:00

Walkie Talkie Watches
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Man oh man, if I were a kid, I would love to have these. Imagine how cool it would be to pretend that you are Starsky, no wait, maybe Hutch (boy am I dating myself). I wouldn't even care if the device kept accurate time as long as I could press a button on my watch and say something cool like "10-4" over and over again.

I don't have a whole lot of information about the range on these walkie talkies since you apparently have to be a dealer in order to get true specs.

What I do know is that these are supposed to retail for about $50.00 a watch. Whatever the cost, they sure look like fun.

Float Like A Butterfly, Fall Like A Rock

2005-03-30T10:14:00.000-05:00

Hoverboard
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Who wouldn't want their own personal hovercraft? Admit it, ever since you watched the Jetson's as a kid you wanted either jet shoes, your own space craft or at the very least that gizmo that gets you showered and dressed automatically every morning.

Well, while we might be a few years away from a couple of these, you can build your own hoverboard to make do while we wait. "The hoverboard uses high performance hovercraft technology to lift a 200+lb rider 1 inch above the ground. A 6 horsepower 4-stroke gasoline engine spins a multi bladed propeller to force air under the craft."

You can buy the plans to build it yourself for $50.00; or buy it fully assembled for $9,000. Lots of videos on the website, click on the headline for link.

PowerSki JetBoard

2005-03-30T10:02:00.000-05:00

PowerSki JetBoard
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

How often does this happen to you? You want to go water skiing, but there's no one around to drive the boat. That's not a problem anymore. From the website:

"One of the most radical water toys ever invented, the PowerSkiJetBoard is an engineering masterpiece - the inventors have taken the form factor of a surfboard and built in an ingenuously small and flat 45 horsepower motor capable of propelling it to 40 mph. With the rear thrust, rail and the three fins beneath, the JetBoard carves better than anything else on water, tarmac or snow, generating G-forces up to 6G and enabling the rider to get almost horizontal (check the pics inside). The JetBoard never cavitates or slides out, enabling a standing rider to perform continuous, stable, high speed turns with slight shifts in weight."

About $7,000, click on the headline for link. (Via gizmag)

Radio Pen

2005-03-29T09:34:00.000-05:00

Radio Pen
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Other then the fact that this is so cheap, I'm not sure who the intended audience for this gadget is supposed to be. From the website:

"This clever ballpoint pen features a built-in FM digital scan tuner â great for private, discreet listening in libraries, offices...just about anywhere. Clip to your pocket for handsfree use with the included stereo earbuds. There's a handy volume control wheel on the cord that plugs into the top of the pen. Radio detaches from pen for independent use."

At least the price is right - about $10.00. Click on the headline for link.

What's Going On In Your Bedroom When You Are Not There (Wouldn't You Like To Know?)

2005-03-29T09:22:00.000-05:00

Camcorder Spy Clock
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's something for all of you paranoid types. "This low profile, fully functional and discreet LCD clock has a digital video camera hidden inside. The motion-activated camcorder will turn on and record full-motion video whenever someone moves into its wide field-of-view, then shut off automatically when activity stops. When you return, simply play the AVI digital video files through your computer or laptop using the included USB cable.

Unlike elaborate, expensive security cameras that require a VCR or television for playback, this discreet device is a simple, self-contained system that is ready to go right out of the box."

How much for this peace of mind? Only $199.00 from Sharper Image. Click on the headline for link.

Funky Spelling Alert - Phlat ball

2005-03-29T09:07:00.000-05:00

Phlat ball
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

From the website:

"Phlat Ball is half 6" ball and half 9" throwing disc and is taking Australia by storm.

You Phlatten the ball by squeezing the top and bottom together and it sticks in place, then throw it like a disc, and it pops out into a ball, which is really quite clever. The release from disc to ball is random, so you never quite know if you're going to be catching a ball or a disc. And of course if you happen to miss-throw it (heaven forbid) and it lands on an inconveniently placed roof, simply wait and when it pops into a ball shape it'll roll off - neat. Of course it's also great for travelling, as it packs flat, or rather 'phlat'."

Looks like fun, hopefully won't be too long before this hits the States. Click on the headline for link.

Desktop Cellular?

2005-03-28T10:02:00.000-05:00

Desktop Cellular
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Are you letting your long distance minutes go to waste each month? Ever wonder why you pay for a landline phone when the truth is, you make most of your calls from your cell phone anyway. The Universal Desktop Station aims to change all that:

"Enjoy the comfort of holding a regular handset or even talk hands-free while using your cellular minutes with the Universal Desktop Station, a wireless phone base station that charges your cell phone battery as you talk. This base station supports all cellular networks.

Use the Universal Desktop Station to make longer phone calls with your mobile phone, without consuming your mobile phone battery and without the discomfort associated with mobile phones. Its built-in speakerphone makes it possible to talk hands-free, and even using the handset, you'll be avoiding the risk of cell phone radiation"

About $65.00, click on the headline for link.

Time Marches On

2005-03-28T09:22:00.000-05:00

Robot Clock
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

This animated Robot Flip Clock literally moves. Held in place on your desk via the rubber feet, the Robot Flip Clock's legs swing when the numbers flip to create the image that the clock is moving towards you. Could be scary if you have deadline approaching.

This unique timepiece was created by designer Michael Daniel. It measures 8" x 3" x 8"H, comes with 2 C batteries and sells for around $80.00. Click on the headline for link.

Monday Morning Distractions - Paper Toss

2005-03-28T09:10:00.000-05:00

In honor of the NCAA Tournament, here's a little flash game that mimicks something that we have all done from time to time - shoot hoops with crumpled up pieces of paper. Add an oscillating office fan to the mix and adjust your shots accordingly. This should be good for killing a bunch of time this week. As always, click on the headline for link.

Next Killer Cell Phone Application?

2005-03-27T13:33:00.000-05:00

Motorola Screen3
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Motorola announced its new SCREEN3 service at CITA about two weeks ago. SCREEN3 is an always-on data service that pushes text and images to the idle screen of your handset. Kind of like the mid 90s screen-saver, Pointcast, SCREEN3 offers news, entertainment, weather and other configurable content that can be consumed passively by watching the idle screen; if you want more details, just click once to get the full story. This is undoubtedly the first appropriately designed experience of internet based content on a mobile phone.

The V551 will be the first handset with SCREEN3 , but be sure many will follow. (Via Josh Rubin:Cool Hunting)

Like A Car Wash For Your Mouth

2005-03-27T13:23:00.000-05:00

Hydra Brush Ultra
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Have you been eating Cadbury Eggs since 7:00 a.m.? Maybe you've nibbled the ears off of a couple (or 6 or 7) chocolate bunnies or have had so many Peeps that your teeth feel like a road sander just spread sugar crystals all over them.

Well, here's your solution. From the website for the HydraBrush Ultra:

"Other power brushes boast their high speed spinning action (4,000 rpm and more), speeds that generate a feeling of discomfort. HydraBrush on the other hand relies on accurate bristle positioning to obtain effectiveness, and as a result, the brushes can reciprocate at a fraction of the speed of other products, resulting in user enjoyment of a comfortable massage with every use.

In addition to six brushes, HydraBrush has four (4) water jets that effectively oral irrigate during the brushing process. HydraBrush is much more effective than other oral irrigation devices because the water jets are preset to an angle that directs the pressurized fluid precisely into the gingival pockets and between teeth, again eliminating the element of human error.

HydraBrush, with its six brushes and four water jets all working simultaneously, generates an oral cleansing with effectiveness far beyond that of any other oral care product. The cleaning process is also very enjoyable. A common testimonial of first-time HydraBrush users is along the lines of 'its like putting your teeth through an automatic car wash' just enjoy the ride and come out squeaky clean. Another common comment for first-time users is 'it feels like I just got a cleaning from my dentist.'"

About $179.00, click on headline for link.

Chew On This (Or I Must, I Must, I Must Improve My Bust)

2005-03-26T16:37:00.000-05:00

Bust Up Gum
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Some things you just can't make up. And being the magnanimous guy that I am, I consider this post a public service announcement. From the article:

"A chewing gum produced by a Japanese company can say the manufactures help enhance the size, shape and tone of the breasts.

The gum B2Up is proving to be a big hit say Bust-Up gum, when chewed three or four times a day, the chewy also improves circulation, reduces stress and battles ageing.

B2Up contains the plant extract, Pueraria mirifica and works by slowly releasing the compounds it contains.

This they say helps to keep the muscle tissue in good order, Pueraria mirifica, also known as Kwao Krua, is a species found in Thailand and Burma, and has been used by indigenous hill tribe people as a traditional medicine for generations.

The plant's tubers contain a number of chemicals called phytoestrogens, including miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol, these natural compounds which create the effects of the female sex hormone oestrogen, as they are very close in chemical structure to oestradiol, the main human oestrogen.

B2Up says that it is the effect of these two chemicals, coupled with a third phytooestrogen isoflavone, which makes its gum work."

Feel free to insert your own straight line in the comments section. Click on the headline for article.

Have A Funky Easter

2005-03-26T11:54:00.000-05:00

bunnies
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I don't usually (in fact I never have) post links to flash animation sites, but in honor of the holidays, and given that I have been so busy playing with my new PSP (hands-on review to follow at some point), that I am posting this for your enjoyment.

Turn up the volume and click on the headline for link.

Free Software - Spell Check Everything!

2005-03-26T11:46:00.000-05:00

tinySpell
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's a great little program that will let you spell check your typing even from within applications that don't have a native spell checker - tinySpell.

From the website:

"Occasionally you need to check the spelling of words in an application that does not include a spelling checker and you don't want to launch your word processor just for that. This is when tinySpell becomes handy. It is a small utility that allows you to easily and quickly check the spelling of words in any Windows application. tinySpell monitors your typing on the fly and alerts you whenever it detects a misspelled word. It also checks the spelling of every word you copy to the clipboard.

tinySpell installs itself in the system tray for easy access. It comes with an American-English dictionary containing more than 110,000 words."

Click on the headline for download page. Did I mention that it's free?

Codename "The Color"

2005-03-25T12:17:00.000-05:00

Muro MR-200
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I'm not quite sure why Muro felt it necessary to give its new MR-200 mp3 player a code name. It's not like this is some sort of "24" themed end of the world device which will require Keifer Sutherland to save us all at the last minute. Or is it?

"The color" measures only 60 x 38 x 17mm and packs a near-1-inch 65k color OLED screen for displaying MPEG-4 movies and JPEG pictures. Battery life isn't too shabby; some 13 hours per built-in li-polymer battery charge.

Next to MP3 and WMA, Ogg Vorbis is also supported. Direct-encoding can be done into WMA-format, while FM-tuner + recorder & voice recorder are also part of the deal. Of course, "the Color" also supports USB2.0.

Capacities and pricing not available yet. Keifer Sutherland sold separately.

End Of A Pick-Up Line?

2005-03-25T12:06:00.000-05:00

cigarettes
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

"Got a light" may soon go the way of "want to check out my mood ring" as a pick-up line. What am I talking about?

Well, we all know that bans on smoking and tobacco advertising are spreading like wildfire. But that hasn't stopped inventors coming up with ways to make smoking easier. The latest is a self-lighting cigarette designed by Gashbam Enterprises of Israel that does away with the need for matches and can be lit on a windy day.

The cigarette has a tip anointed with sulphur and phosphorus. Striking the tip against a rough pad on the side of the packet ignites the cigarette, which is reinforced with slivers of bamboo or tobacco leaf to stop it breaking.

Just great, next they'll invent a pill that gets you drunk and eliminates the need for going to bars, and millions of guys who wear long gold chains and big collared button down silk shirts will spend the rest of their lives wandering the streets on New York like lost deers caught in headlights. Let's all hope that *that* day never comes.

iBeam Watch

2005-03-24T11:39:00.000-05:00

iBeam Watch
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's a neat little gizmo that might actually make someone's life a little easier. It's a watch with a built in magnifying lens and light.

"By combining high-tech functions with a classic style, the patented iBEAM Optical Timepiece provides so much more than an ordinary watch. Built into the watch's face is an optically certified 5x magnifying lens that pops up at the touch of a button. This is especially handy when it comes to reading maps, menus, food labels, phone books, or even when you're partaking in your favorite hobby like coin or stamp collecting. You'll always have a magnifier on hand - or rather, on wrist!

Also discreetly hidden in the watch's casing is a high-powered LED flashlight. This light turns on and off with a touch of a button, and is excellent in cases where light is needed most, such as theater aisles, walkways, stairways, alleys, and car interiors."

About $100.00, click on the headline for link.

Gifts That Say "I Really Want To Break Up With You"

2005-03-24T11:06:00.000-05:00

Levels Earrings
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

From the website:

"With this stylishly kinetic jewelry, the wearer is the center of their own solar system, with the bubbles of these real working levels floating softly around them. You can take them off and use them to hang up a painting or install a bookshelf, but they'll look so good you'll have them on again as soon as your task is complete."

Nothing quite says "I Love You" like a pair of these. About $60.00. Click on the headline for link.

Will Tablets Ever Take Off?

2005-03-24T11:02:00.000-05:00

Toshiba R15-S822
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I was an early adopter of Tablet computers. I spend so much time with a pen in my hand that I thought it made a whole lot of sense. I first owned a Toshiba tablet and then sold it for a Compaq tablet (which I then sold to get an Apple). Anyway, my problem with the Tablets were that they were a bit heavy and no matter how good the handwriting recognition was, I could still type faster. Toshiba has just released its R15-S822 claiming:

"The Satellite R15 Tablet PC combines advanced notebook power with the practicality and comfort of pen and paper. Take notes, write emails without your keyboard. Browse the Web with a pen. It's a more intuitive way of computing!

With a simple twist and click, you can use a pen with hyper-precise digital ink to take notes. View the ample-sized 14.1" diagonal swivel screen in a way that's more like the way you normally read books and watch TV. You can even get creative by sketching out ideas or creating digital art right on the screen. The Satellite R15 is state-of-the-art with built-in optical drive, integrated wireless, the Intel Pentium M Processor, and the Toshiba Shock Protection System to provide higher impact protection and reliability for key hardware components."

It has nice specs, including a 14.1" screen and is selling for $1599.00. I still think that it is a bit heavy, though. Click on the headline for link.

What's The Recipe For Ice Again?

2005-03-23T10:31:00.000-05:00

Google Mobile
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

From the website:

"Google search, in the palm of your hand.

Google Mobile makes it easy to access online information - over 8 billion pages and a billion images - on your cell phone or mobile device.

Search the Web: At the grocery store and need to find the ingredients for chicken salad? Just query "chicken salad ingredients" on your cell phone's mobile Web browser to search through more than 8 billion pages for the recipe that will wow your taste buds.

Search Images: Is that the Empire State building or the Chrysler building? Search more than a billion images and get the one you need on your phone with Google Image Search."

Click on the headline for link.

Can You Hear Me Now?

2005-03-23T10:15:00.000-05:00

Samsung Long Range
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Imagine this - a portable phone that you can use outside your house and down the block. So far so good, right? Now imagine that you can take your portable phone into your car, drive to the park and pick up pizza.

I know what you are thinking, "hey, gadget guy, why do I need a portable phone which could do that, I already have a cell phone." I agree. I don't have a clue why you might want a portable phone with a 30 mile radius as opposed to a cell phone with cross country roaming, but who am I to judge?

About $300.00, click on the headline for link.

Camcorder Phone

2005-03-23T09:46:00.000-05:00

Camcorder Phone
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Quiet on the set! And Action! Wait, I got a call coming in on camera one, everyone take a break.

Pantech & Curitel is set to release the PH-L4000V, a uniquely designed camcorder phone. From the website:

"It also adopts a swiveling folder which offers much convenience in shooting video or still images. It comes with the tripod compatible with the international standard that prevents shaking, the company added.

PH-L4000V with a 2.14-megapixel camera module is a big step forward in the evolution of camera phones which have been thought of being suitable only for snap pictures. With enhanced camera system such as auto focus and 2x optical zoom, the handset is also enabled with FM radio, MP3 player and TV-out. "

Certainly looks interesting. No pricing yet (or even work if it will be released in the United States).

How I Felt The Last Time I Ate Taco Bell

2005-03-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

Roller Cycle
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Not quite, but not too far off. Anyway, here's the Roller Cycle - a "personal power accelerator". Looks more like death on wheels to me, but hey, what do I know?

The Roller Cycle uses a 1.5 horsepower engine that can travel at speeds up to 25mph!!! It can travel over any terrain, this in due to the rear propulsion that's given to the user. The user simply uses the freedom of their feet to steer the Roller Cycle.

Nothing is attached to the skater, except a safety switch which is similar to the ones that are on jet skis that cuts the motor when the rider falls off. Simply squeeze the throttle and your off.

Only $449.00 (supplemental disability insurance is extra). Click on the headline for link.

Destined For Failure

2005-03-22T10:13:00.000-05:00

Gizmondo
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Ok, while I'm anxiously awaiting my PSP this week, might as well talk about another new game/everything player - the Gizmondo.

It can be used to play games, music tracks and movies. It can take and store digital photos and be used like a mobile phone to send text, multimedia and e-mail messages.

The phone service to enable people to send messages is being provided by pre-pay Vodafone accounts bundled in with the device.

It also works with GPS (Global Position System) so can also be used as a navigation aid or to support a variety of location-based services.

The GPRS and Bluetooth wireless data systems onboard mean that it can be used for multi-player gaming.

The game lineup leaves much to be desired and at $450.00 with the release of the PSP and continued competition from the Nintendo DS, this one might become heavily discounted very quickly.

Media Bliss?

2005-03-22T10:02:00.000-05:00

LG PM70
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

A 4.3", 16:9 widescreen, 30 GB HDD and broad non-Windows Media format support, or in other words LG's new PM70 Portable Media Center.

Available with either 20 or 30 GB of hard drive space, the PM70 will support a smorgasboard of video codecs, including MPEG2; MPEG4; DivX 3.x, 4.x and 5.x; and XviD. In the audio department, Windows Media Audio is present, as is MP3, Ogg Vorbis, ASF and AC3 - very comprehensive. Last, but not least, BMP and JPEG photo viewing.

It also has USB 2.0 connectivity with support for USB Host 1.1, and a claimed battery life of 16 hours of audio playback or 4 hours of video playback. No pricing yet, should be available later this year.

Another Distraction While Driving

2005-03-21T06:53:00.000-05:00

LG SV360
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I'm still sorting through all the cool phones that were announced at the CTIA wireless trade show, that's why the emphasis on phones lately.

Here's LG's game-crunching SV360. It straddles a delicate line between devices; as a horizontal clamshell folded up, it seems a bit too large for its own good. But as a gaming device folded out, crank up the ATI Imageon 2300 graphics chipset, and it plays very decently. No QWERTY keyboard in this one, but two hand controls for the games. Once again no release date or pricing available yet. (Via Engadget)

Music Phone With Speaker

2005-03-21T06:46:00.000-05:00

Alcatel OT-S853
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Alcatel announced the triband (900/1800/1900) OT-S853 mobile phone at CeBIT 2005. The new handset features include support for EDGE, Bluetooth, 262K TFT color display with 176 x 220 pixel, and MP3 audio playback. There's also an integrated 1.3 megapixel camera and FM Radio.

The audio control buttons are on the side for easy access. The most interesting feature is the large speaker at the top of the phone. I'm not sure if it is intended for music, but it sure seems that way. Release date and price not available.

Monday Morning Distractions - Super Lazy Edition

2005-03-21T06:45:00.000-05:00

Busy day for me today so I won't have a lot of time for posting. Here's a game that is so insipidly easy that you'll keep saying to yourself that you won't play it again. And then you will. Over and over and over. Have a major project that you are trying to get out the door? That's OK, you have time for this game. On a very important conference call where there's a lot on the line? No problem, you can play this one while wheeling and dealing away.

Go ahead. I know you want you to. Click on the headline for link.

Your Powers Are Weak Old Man

2005-03-20T11:16:00.000-05:00

Plasma Saber
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

And your wallet will soon be empty. Look, I liked the first couple of Star Wars movies as much as the next guy, but after the last couple I haven't exactly been pining away waiting for the next (and thankfully) final release. But if you are one of those people who seem to believe that the movies are more then entertainment and also somehow embody a philosophy of life then this just may be the gadget which completes your sorry existence.

From the website:

"We have over 14 years experience building and designing Plasma Sabers and we can assure you that our sabers are the most advanced designs in the world! The Plasma Saber blade is solid. It is a high power shock mounted neon type tube which contains a plasma gas which glows brightly when activated. The tubes are completely removable and interchangeable. The handles are crafted from metal. The Plasma Saber looks amazingly similar to the real thing when activated. You won't realize how true this really is until you actually hold it in your hand. The Plasma Saber beam can be seen very well indoors or in low light conditions outdoors. It is very bright. A special g-force sensor is used inside our handle to sense when the saber is swung. The sensor produces a wooshing sound as you swing it! Colors available are Red, Blue, Green and Purple."

Only $990.00! Almost the same amount as it would cost to take a family of four to see a movie and buy popcorn and sodas. Click on the headline for link.

Motorola Joins The Camera Phone Act

2005-03-20T10:30:00.000-05:00

Motorola MS550
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Not wanting to be left out of Samsung, Siemans and Kyocera's campaign of new-fangled camera phones, Motorola has introduced the MS550 3 megapixel camera phone.

There are not a whole lot of details yet, but it appears to be a CDMA-based 3-megapixel slider with a flip-out 2x optical zoom lens, TransFlash/microSD slot, and even a proper looking flash. (Via Engadget)

Feel Like Playing Doctor?

2005-03-19T10:54:00.000-05:00

Knee Surgery
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

OK, here's one of those things that I came across while surfing and was not really sure what to do with. It's kind of gadgety, kind of odd and certainly interesting - so what the heck, I'm putting it here so that you can draw your own conclusions.

It's Virtual Knee Surgery! Why knee surgery? I haven't a clue. Think of it as "Operation" for grown ups. Something which I know will come in handy in the real world. "Quick, hand me the retractors, this man needs a new knee cap!"

At least it's free. Click on the headline for link.

Smartest Watch On The Planet?!?

2005-03-19T10:45:00.000-05:00

Sky Time
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

At least its manufacturer claims so. From the website:

"This computer controlled analog and digital watch tells time in four simultaneous time zones. It predicts Sun rise, Sun set, Moon rise, Moon set and Moon phase for 500 preprogramed cities or any location on earth. There are 26 unique features built into this stunning time piece. These include Alarms, Stop watch, Counter and 24 hour time. You can have more computing power on your wrist than Neil Armstrong had on board The Lunar lander that took him to the surface of the moon."

The website is hysterical. It couldn't be more over the top - here's my favorite nugget:

"I think it was Galileo who said that the moon was the most unpredictable body in the heavens. Our mathematicians now agree with him."

Well, that's good to know. Anyway about $200.00 (a small price to pay for the smartest watch on the planet). Click on the headline for link.

I'm Ready For My Closeup

2005-03-18T09:35:00.000-05:00

Samsung a970
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Behold the Samsung a970 swivel 2 megapixel camera phone. Expect it in the second quarter to come with that 2-megapixel camera, swiveling dual display, EVDO support, Bluetooth, MPEG-4 video support, stereo speakers and VOD.

Looks very cool, but why not a 3, 4 or 5 megapixel camera instead of that lousy 2 megapixel. No pricing yet. (Via Engadget)

Come Fly With Me

2005-03-18T09:09:00.000-05:00

Parabounce
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Come Fly, Let's Fly Away....Nothing like a little Sinatra in the morning (or any time for that matter).

From the website:

"The Parabounce is 22' balloon filled with enough helium to launch a person in the air with the slightest push from the ground, the expereince of being able to rise and float in the atmosphere can now be experienced by eager riders all over the world."

The videos which accompany this site look very cool. Check it out for yourself, click on the headline for link.

More Phones With Keyboards

2005-03-18T09:02:00.000-05:00

LG F9100
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Nobody wants just a phone anymore. The idea that all your phone does is receive incoming calls and allows you to make outgoing calls is practically primative. Instead, we all want phones that act as IM devices, email clients, games systems, music players, still cameras, video cameras and more.

In trying to accomadate our desires, the phone manufacturers have been experimenting with ways to incorporate keyboards into our phones. Because, let's face it, no matter how "smart" the software is, trying to type an email on a regular phone pad sucks.

LG's F1900 is aimed more at the power texter than the power user, which means that it sports a QWERTY keyboard and comes preloaded with AIM, ICQ, and Yahoo Messenger. It doesn't have Bluetooth, a large LCD screen, a built-in digital camera, or even a proper smartphone operating system. Available now from Cingular.

Another Sleek Asus Computer

2005-03-17T10:45:00.000-05:00

Asus V6800V
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

With the launch of the V6800V, Asus claims it has produced the world's thinnest and lightest 15 inch laptop. It is just 0.9 inches thick and slips in at a proportionately bulimic 4lbs. or so.

The V6800V doesn't appear to be wanting for power either despite its waifish lines as it is based on the Sonoma edition of the Centrino chipset and therefore supports such recent notebook innovations as DDR2 RAM, PCI Express and SATA hard drives.

The fully customisable spec will feature processors beginning at 1.73GHz and hard drives at 60GB. At the top of the food chain you can crank up the clock past 2GHz and somehow Asus can squeeze in a 100GB hard drive (if you can afford the upgrade).

Both Sony and Apple had better watch out as it looks like Asus has finally started to understand the form and function combination that many of us seek.

My What A Big Camera Phone You Have!

2005-03-17T10:24:00.000-05:00

Samsung SCH-V770
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

At CeBit which is winding down, Samsung announced their new 7 megapixel camera phone - the Samsung SCH-V770. The SCH-V770's has a 1/1.8 inch type CCD image sensor, 3x optical zoom lens, flash and manual focus control. It also has 32 megabytes of internal memory.

Um, is that a camera phone in your pocket or are you just glad to see me? No pricing or release date announced.

Sony Finally Offers Media Center Upgrades

2005-03-16T16:42:00.000-05:00

Media Center
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Well, they say that good things come to those who wait and apparently Sony has finally got its act together and is now offering MCE 2005 upgrades for a whole host of its Media Center PC's, including the VGC-RA series and the PCV-RZ series. The best part is that the upgrade is only $9.95. Click on the headline to get to the Sony upgrade web page.

I just ordered mine and now I can't wait to get it!

Blown Away

2005-03-16T10:30:00.000-05:00

gadget
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

"Sonic Devestator- This handheld space age weapon of the future is powered by (2) 9 volt batteries conatined within the handle. It is capable of emitting intense ultrasonic blasts from its output transducer. The sonic blast is capable of inducing intense pain and discomfort in humans and animals It is effective for approximately 20ft but some people are even effected at distances as great as 50ft. Some people are more sensitive to sonic waves then others. The batterys will last for nearly 20 hours of continuous operation before needing replacement."

Pretty cool. I once had a girlfriend who could do the same thing, though. Problem was, her batteries never ran out. About $300.00 assembled. Click on the headline for link.

Benefon GPS Phone

2005-03-16T10:21:00.000-05:00

Benefone GPS Phone
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I have never heard of Benefon or its products and they look to be European based (in fact there is apparently only a single distributor in the U.S.). This is the first combination phone and GPS device that I have seen. The map memory appears to be limited to 2MB and the maps must be from Genimap, almost certainly not enough for a whole lot of road navigation.

Besides the pretty cool convergence factor, I thought that the idea of being able to send an emergency message with your location to a predefined number was an excellent safety feature and being able to let other Benefon users find you and you them could be fun. I just like the idea of being able to integrate the GPS and phone into a single unit. Now, if only they could integrate pocket reader functions for my prc files and an mp3 player for my music then I'd be happy. Oh yes, and a toaster too. After all, who wouldn't want a nice piece of toast while hiking? Click on the headline for link.

Kyocera Gamepad

2005-03-16T10:17:00.000-05:00

Kyocera KX5
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's one of the more interesting docking connection for phones. Kyocera has partnered with Alienware and they have developed the Gamepad for the new Kyocera KX5. It looks kind of cool, but I don't want to carry a pocketful of accessories for my phone. I'd like to see something like this built in - now that would make for a great way to kill time while on the train. No pricing or game lists yet.

BenQ Music Phone - For Music and Fashion Lovers

2005-03-15T08:46:00.000-05:00

BenQ Music Phone
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's a sexy new phone:

"The cube-shaped BenQ Z2 is original and unique in design with five directional navigation keys and specially-designed numeric buttons, and provides a different variation to those designs currently on the market. Outfitted with exchangeable shells, the BenQ Z2 allows the consumer to change pearl white, mustard green, sapphire blue, to sparkling pink casing depending on their different moods or to match what they are wearing."

What kind of mood calls for mustard green? What the hell is mustard green anyway? Anyway, the BenQ Z2 is equipped with powerful MP3 functions and 3D surrounding sound. Consumers can choose between six equalizers, including Normal, Bass, Rock, Fashion, Jazz, and Classic. A choice of three different modes of playing, including Repeat 1, Repeat All, and Shuffle, are also sure to satisfy the most capricious music lovers. The BenQ Z2 also supports the ID3 V2 function, which allows easy reading of the music lyrics on its 1.5" 262K color TFT display. And for those consumers who enjoy listening to the radio, the BenQ Z2 also has an embeddded FM radio which allows for programming of 20 radio channels.

Oh yeah, camera too. Should be available next quarter, no pricing, but it won't be cheap.

Everything Old Is New Again

2005-03-15T08:42:00.000-05:00

Zaurus SL-C1000
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Is this the future (again) of PDA's? Back in the late 80's and early 90's the Sharp Wizard PDA's were the de facto standard for PIM. But as Palm and Handspring really started to catch on, the Wizards became relegated to nothing more then glorified electronic address books since the ability to add software was limited.

But, Sharp never left the PIM arena and continues to march to the beat of its own drummer. This device is Linux based and the SL-C1000 looks to have similar specs to its cousin, the SL-C3000 but without the hard drive. It should have about 8 hours of battery life and 52MB user-area RAM. No pricing available, probably will not be released in the U.S., but should be available in Japan later this month.

Hit Me With Your Rhythm Sticks

2005-03-14T14:08:00.000-05:00

rhythm sticks
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Hit Me! Hit Me! Not too slow now, quick, quick quick. Hit Me! Hit Me!

Wow, I still love 80's music. Anyway, from the website:

"Each of these wicked drumsticks a.k.a Rhythm Sticks has a speaker in its base, and when you 'hit' the air with them, they make a great drum sound!"

Switches on the sticks let you choose between a classical drum beat or an electronic drum beat. About $21.00, click on the headline for link.

Making The Band - The Internet Edition

2005-03-14T10:26:00.000-05:00

New Kids
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Have you perfected walking around like a drunk (see below)? Then, you might be ready for a career as a music producer! Choose your band members, their instruments, the lighting and background. Wait for MTV to call, then blow them off! Hire Lizzie Grubman to do your PR.

This is one of the greatest time killers out there. Start playing and get nothing done at all today. Really. You'll see. Just click on the headline for link.

Monday Morning Distractions -- Intoxicated Walking

2005-03-14T07:51:00.000-05:00

So I celebrated my birthday this past weekend, and on Saturday night, let's just say that I didn't meet a drink that I didn't like. In honor of my overindulgence is this week's Monday Morning Distraction in which the goal is simple - stay on your feet, despite the fact that you are ummmm, hammered. The directions are in German, but basically, just use your mouse to keep from tipping over. I scored pretty well, but that was probably because of my recent practice. Enjoy. Click on the headline for link.

Sneak Pictures - Make Millions

2005-03-13T11:43:00.000-05:00

Spypen
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

What's that Ms. Hilton? Dropped your fork? Let me look under the table and find that for you. Click, Click.

Hello, Playboy? I have some pictures for you - for a price of course.

From the website:

"Just like James Bond, this incredible digital device gives you the ability to do what no other pen is capable of. Go to a board meeting and snap a few candid shots in secret. Do your own investigation by taking snap shots of secret documents. Take photographs of a competitor's products at trade shows or retail stores. Sneak it in where cameras are not allowed like art museums and opera houses. 2MB memory is capable of storing up to 36, 160 x 120 pixel images. Even has a voice function that lets you how many images have been taken and when you power on or off. Includes software and serial cable (RS-232) for downloading images to PC. It also has a built-in pen so you can actually write when the need arises."

About $70.00. Click on the headline for link.

TunePlug USB Drive

2005-03-13T11:27:00.000-05:00

USB Thumb Drive
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's an interesting way to distribute some music from new artists. TunePlug-a reusable USB Flash Drive that will feature 10 complete albums from 10 leading Magnatune artists as MP3 files.

All music tracks on TunePlug are provided in MP3 format by Magnatune and can be played on any computer or portable music device. Branded with Magnatune packaging, the TunePlug connects to any computer though its USB port and can be used like any hard disk to store and transfer files. Prices for TunePlug are $19.99 for the 64MB; $29.99 for the 128MB; $49.99 for the 256MB; and $69.99 for the 512MB.

Magnatune is an independent, online record label that hand selects its own artists, sells its catalog of music through online downloads and print-on-demand CDs and licenses music for commercial and non-commercial use. It certainly is a unique way to get its artists increased exposure.

For The Ladies

2005-03-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

Sammsung CL75
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

The phone as fashion accessory:

"The Siemens CL75 gives mobile communication the feminine touch. This stylish clamshell mobile phone uniquely combines feminine elegance with the latest mobile communications technology. The distinctive colorful floral motif on the case makes the CL75 a leading trendsetter, while the large color display with 262,000 vivid colors is another eye-catching feature. When users are not on the phone the interior display comes in handy as a pocket mirror when needing to catch a glimpse of themselves. Weighing a mere 90 grams, this phone is the perfect size for any handbag.

Personal photos and videos can be stored in the 11 megabyte memory, or be sent off to friends in a multimedia message (MMS)."

Isn't it pretty? No pricing yet.

Discuss Among Yourselves - Handheld Games That Weren't So Hot

2005-03-12T08:03:00.000-05:00

Atari Lynx
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Over the many years that I have been a "gadget guy", I've always had a special affinity for handhelds, especially handheld game devices. Beginning with the original Mattel Electronic Football Game (which I still have and still works) to the original Game Boy (which I also still have) right up to the PSP which I can't wait to get.

Anyway, GameSpy has put together a great article about the Top Ten Handhelds that Never Made it. I owned a bunch of them, including the Lynx (pictured) and Lynx II (guess I'm a glutton for punishment), the NEC Turbo, the Tiger Game and the Sega Game Gear.

Each of these games still hold a special place in my gadget drawers. To read the article for yourself, click on the headline. And, if you are so inclined, how about leaving a comment with your favorite handheld that didn't quite make it.

Sexy Movie Camera

2005-03-11T15:57:00.000-05:00

sanyo xacti c5
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's a sexy little DV video camera that is tiny enough to take with you anywhere. The Sanyo C5 has 5 megapixels, 2 inch LCD screen and can record MPEG4 format movies with VGA resolution at 30 frames per second. The Sanyo Xacti Digital Movie C5 replaces the Sanyo Xacti C1.

The camera has a resolution of 5 Megapixels. Looks pretty and should retail for about $700.00. Click on the headline for link and full specs.

Boogie on the BodyBoard

2005-03-11T07:43:00.000-05:00

bodyboard
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Does a regular go-kart bore you? Do you have the need for speed? Do you like to get that speed as close to the ground as possible?

"The BodyBoard rider lies head first in a harness, getting a speed sensation blast just centimeters above the tarmac. Propulsion comes via the powerful electric engines inside each wheel that are powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. The BodyBoard also has the lowest centre of gravity possible - it's below the axle line. Along with the bird's eye view and four powerful inside-the-wheel electric motors with linear power delivery are big fat sticky racing tyres, offering G-forces not possible in anything this side of a Formula One car."

Let's hope you don't need a bodybag after racing on the BodyBoard. Click on the headline for link.

Cute, But Watch Out For the Piles of Lug Nuts They Leave On The Rug

2005-03-11T07:38:00.000-05:00

i-Cybie
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

From the press release:

"I-Cybie, the new robotic dog from Outrageous International, has more than 120 features and functions. I-Cybie can walk, stand, sit, shake a paw, lie down, pivot in a circle, and do handstands. i-Cybie moves by using 16 different motors, has 1400 parts, 90 feet of internal wiring, and it has its own brain, with its behavior dependent on how i-Cybie is treated. Praising i-Cybie will cause it to do tricks and be in a good mood, while scolding it will make i-Cybie more demure.

i-Cybie moves with 16 different motors and uses a number of sensors located throughout its body to detect walls, obstacles, and edges so it does not bump into things or go tumbling over the side of a table or down flights of stairs. i-Cybie can even sense when it is being touched and is sensitive to changes in light and movement, which comes in handy when you put it in guard dog mode."

I'm not so sure about the having its own "brain" part, but hey for $200.00 it might be worth a whirl. Should be available by Fall.

Real Life Daredevils

2005-03-10T20:00:00.000-05:00

ultracane
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I would have no idea how to function if I were to suddenly lose my sight. I suppose that having grown up reading comic books, I would dream of being able to "enhance" my other senses in order to compensate for my loss and become like Daredevil (but not the Ben Affleck version). Maybe that's not really possible, but Ultra Cane might make a sightless person's ability to lead a more "normal" life possible:

"The UltraCane is based on an ordinary white cane, but it also uses "echolocation" - it emits ultrasonic waves which bounce off objects in its path and echo back to the cane. It feeds that information through to the buttons on the handle, telling you how far away the object is, and whether it is in front of you or at head height. This gives you more knowledge about your environment, and enables you to make decisions much more quickly than is possible with an ordinary white cane."

It's fascinating technology and a very interesting website. Click on the headline for link.

Logitech Quickcams

2005-03-10T12:43:00.000-05:00

Logitech Quickcams
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Logitech, which makes fairly reliable and reasonably priced products released a couple of new webcams for laptops. The Quickcam cameras for Notebooks will feature VGA video capable of up to 640x480 video. The Deluxe version will add functionality for digital stills at 1.3 megapixels, in addition, software based face tracking will make sure your face is in the camera's view at all times. Both models have a spring loaded clip which will firmly grasp to the top of your laptops screen.

The cameras are compatible with both USB 2.0 and 1.1 and will come with a protective case to protect itself inside your laptop bag. Expect to see the cameras on U.S. shelves in April retailing at $59.99 for the Deluxe version and $39.99 for the lower end model. (Via MobileMag.com)

Siemens Rugged M75

2005-03-10T09:38:00.000-05:00

Siemens Rugged M75
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I wonder if this is going to be a new trend in phones. Siemens just introduced its Rugged M series phones that have been toughened up for outdoor activities. It has a metal frame and rubber sides to help it deal with impacts, and has been sealed tight to protect it from water and dust.

The M75 pictured above has a color TFT display and built-in video-capable 1.3 megapixel digital camera which have both been given a bit of added protection to help them survive the bumps and shocks of outdoor life. Like most of the other new phones in the Siemens lineup, the M75 supports RS-MMC memory cards and is able to play MP3 music files from off of the card. Also like the other new models, the M75 supports Push-To-Talk instant voice communication. 3D gaming is also in there.

No pricing yet. (Via MobileBurn)

Handheld GPS

2005-03-10T08:57:00.000-05:00

Mio168RS GPS
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Ever since I started Geocaching, I'm a huge fan of handheld GPS devices. Mitac has just released its Mio 168RS GPS, which is a PocketPC based GPS device.

"The new Pocket PC comes with 32MB Flash ROM and 64MB SDRAM. The display is a 3.5" color Transflective LCD with LED Backlighting, 240 x 320 pixels capable of showing 65K colors. The device also comes with a SD/MMC card slot, compatible with the SDIO standard. Infrared supports IrDA (SIR) and Consumer IR (CIR, 4 meters).

Ready to go from the box and instantly on with the touch of a button, the Mio168RS provides on the spot GPS satellite access, easy navigation with millions of points-of-interest (POI). The antenna can be closed behind the device and kept in place while the GPS is not in use. Point-to-point driving directions are given verbally and visually in real time as users are in route to their destination with turn-by-turn directions."

My only questions concern battery life and durability if you are going to take this on a hike. Lists for $599.00, I wouldnt be surprised if you could find it discounted online.

Rumors Of An Apple Handheld?

2005-03-09T15:23:00.000-05:00

emate300
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I don't usually cover gadget rumors, especially those from Apple since they seem to arise almost every other week (and might end up getting you sued), but this one seemed a little to juicy to let go without comment.

As an owner of a a Newton (actually a Sharp Expert Pad - remember that?), I would love to see a new Apple handheld. Supposedly a secret development team is planning specifications for the release of a new mini laptop.

"Deep in the Apple cave these slim little mini pocketops are doing the rounds and getting a lot of great feedback. Sources who claim to have see one have commented that an internal planning spec details that the new machine runs a stripped-down flavour of Mac OS X. We're told that it will finally utilize Apple's Inkwell technology to "write anywhere" and neatly fold into your pocket."

I'd love to see one of these. Click on the headline for link. (Via O'Grady's Power Page)

Inflatable Camera

2005-03-09T10:58:00.000-05:00

Inflatable Camera
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Satisfy your thirst for adventure. Feel like doing a little snowboarding or skateboarding in a reckless manner? Do you have an overwhelming desire to do harm to your body, but not want to damage that expensive video camera that you want to use to record your adventures?

British designer Ben Wilson has designed the Inflate video camera for snowboarders and skateboarders. The camera is placed inside an inflatable structure that acts as an airbag, protecting the device from damage and elements. Of course, there's nothing to prevent damage to you while using the camera on a snow or skatebaord - but I guess that's the whole point.

The Coolest Dad At The Neighborhood Barbeque

2005-03-09T10:40:00.000-05:00

bbq belt
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I know - with the temperature hovering at a balmy 20 this morning in New York, it's hard to believe that in a matter of weeks it will be time to uncover the grill and fire it up. Although this may look a little dorky, truth of the matter is, I know that I am always running back into the house to grab another spice or another tool for the grill.

Available from Red Envelope for $35.00. Click on the headline for link.

When Gadgets Suck

2005-03-08T12:48:00.000-05:00

sidekick II
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I've been a Sidekick and now a Sidekick II user since 2003. Currently, I've been without service in New York since Sunday. I am not alone. All across the country the SKII's have stopped receiving emails and have lost internet access. Why? Well, that's a great question. Neither T-Mobile (the carrier) or Danger (the device designer) seem to know for sure. Or, if they do know for sure, like all things associated with the device they prefer to keep it a secret. When will the device be up and running correctly? That's also a well-kept secret.

I have my device set up to receive my law firm's work emails from our exchange server via POP3. Last night I missed an important email from one of the attorneys I work for and then missed a related email from an important client. Had I got the emails last night I could have worked on a problem. I did not. T-Mobile has offered a $5.00 credit on my next bill. Thanks. A lot.

As soon as my contract is up (if not sooner), I will switch to the Treo or a Blackberry or whatever else. In the meantime, I will not be recommending this device to anyone I know. This means you. If you feel like wading through 25 pages of SKII user's frustrations, click on the headline to read posts from the SK forums.

Another Screenless Player

2005-03-08T10:52:00.000-05:00

iMP-2003
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Looks like the faceless mp3 players are here to stay for a while (thanks Apple), so here is the iMP-2003 from I-Money Tech (G-Money was already taken) of China.

This one is like the iPod Shuffle (aren't all faceless mp3's?), but better since it has an SD card slot which is always useful. It plays MP3, runs for 8 hours or so, and holds 32mb to 1gb worth of internal memory.

More Music Phones

2005-03-08T10:11:00.000-05:00

dopod585 music phone
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Wedged in between the Walkman Phone from last week and the rumored iTunes phone which is supposed to be formally announced by Motorola later this week is the Dopod 585 - a new Windows Mobile-powered Smartphone that comes with dedicated buttons for music playback.

Looks like music phones are going to be this year's camera phones.

Aqua Speakers

2005-03-07T17:39:00.000-05:00

Aqua Speakers
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

How often has this happened to you?

You're cruising around the bottom of the ocean or perhaps you're doing a little snorkeling in the Caribbean with your significant other and fellow philosophy major. While watching sting rays flutter by, you realize that you have finally figured out what the "categorical imperative" is and what Kant was talking about in the "Critique of Pure Reason". Staggered by this realization, and not wanting to surface to discuss your epiphany with your significant other, you are desperate to have this conversation right away!

But since you are under water, this conversation will have to wait....

Or so you thought -

Thanks to Aquatopia you can have "private underwater chats" up to 15 feet away. Incredible! This gadget really fills a void. You'll be able to discuss Kant underwater to your heart's content and for less then $15.00. Click headline for link.

Upcoming Pocket PC Phone

2005-03-07T14:03:00.000-05:00

amoi 3601
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Here's some safe for work eye-candy to drool over this afternoon. It's the Amoi G6301 Pocket PC Phone, which might be available later this year. The unit is definitely slick looking with a very compact clamshell design, gloss back casing, stereo speakers flanking the landscape orientation QVGA display.

Some specs:

300MHz Intel XScale processor with secondary processor to handle voice (phone);

Triband GSM 900/1800/1900MHz with plans to offer a model that has the 850MHz band used by Cingular and AT&T Wireless in the US. EDGE and GPRS for data;

1.3MP camera, Bluetooth and USB OTG (USB host).

Looks pretty good to me. Can't wait to see this one up close.

iTunes Anywhere

2005-03-07T12:02:00.000-05:00

itunes web
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

As you're sitting at your desk at work watching the clock tick, have you ever thought how great it might be if you could listen one of your 3000 iTunes songs that you have on your home computer while in the office. Or, how about listening to your college roommate's playlist of great love songs from the 70's ("Muskrat Love") while studying in the library.

Guess what - you can! "AccessTunes makes it easy to access your music anytime, anywhere. accessTunes starts sharing your iTunes Music Library as soon as you turn on your computer, making it available as a shared iTunes library on the local network, and accessible from anywhere in the world via the Web. With accessTunes, you can listen to your roommate's music even if he doesn't have iTunes open, or listen to music from your home computer at work, even if you're on a PC."

Very cool piece of software. Shareware, only $15.00. Click on the headline for link.

Monday Morning Distractions - Dyson Game

2005-03-07T09:33:00.000-05:00

Most of the Monday Morning Distractions have been mindless flash games that you can play without thinking (much). Today's game is a little different. It's from the Dyson site (that's right the vacuum company) and is a simple little puzzle game that gets progressively harder(read more frustrating) with each level. This one should be good for killing a whole lot of time. Click on headline for link.

Biometric Pen - Why?

2005-03-06T14:10:00.000-05:00

biometric pen
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

The Secure Signature Biometric Pen is a pen-based biometric system designed to provide a secure method of access to a computer through signature recognition and verification.

The pen simply plugs into the USB port on any PC or laptop with the supplied cable and interfaces using software.

According to the website:

"Conventional signature systems compare the image of a signature. Replication of the signature's look is possible by skilled forgers, allowing such systems to be easily fooled and compromised. The Secure Signature Biometric Pen is unique in that it valuates the act of creating the signature. This individual personal behaviour of signing is nearly impossible to forge."

What if I break a finger? Decide to write lefty? Am hungover and have the shakes? Why is this method any better then a fingerprint biometric system? Unless someone can explain otherwise, this seems to be a case of technology for the sake of technology - interesting, but not really useful. Click on the headline for site.

Why Aren't Smart Books Popular?

2005-03-06T11:33:00.000-05:00

SmartBook G168A
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Smart Books and Smart Book readers have always seemed like a good idea. Why carry around heavy textbooks, hard backed novels and the like, when you can dump almost anything on to an SD or similar format card, read it on a screen, underline passages, make notes in the margin, bookmark pages and transfer your notes and thoughts to another format or device for research purposes and to insert into reports?

While its true that you would, for the most part, have no more need for a big library filled with dusty looking titles to impress people, think of how much more room you would have on your bookshelves to display your "Yu Gi Oh" cards. We seem to have no apparent problem in giving up our CD collection and putting our entire music collection on to MP3 or other format - why the reluctance when it comes to books?

Maybe what is needed is the iTunes and iPod equivalent for books - something that would make it so practical and easy for people to download books and read them on a reader that the excuses would be gone. Anyway, the next generation SmartBook appears ready for release (but why cripple it with USB 1.1?). Looks appealing, but I don't quite think that this is the "one". Click on the headline for link.

Blue Skateboard of Death

2005-03-05T11:19:00.000-05:00

Powerboard2
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Do you have a problem figuring out the fundamentals of skateboarding? I mean, is it too difficult to figure out that in order to get the skateboard to move when you are standing on it, that you need to propel the skateboard by pushing on the ground with one leg?

I guess so...

Thankfully, there is Powerboard2 (I have no idea what happened to version 1) to the rescue. Simply stand on the board and push the remote control to start the wheels spinning. Go from 0-9mph in "intense seconds" and then accelerate up to 15mph. You can also use the remote to brake. Don't forget to pick up any body parts that you may have dropped along the way when you are done.

Available June, 2005. Click on headline for link.

Be Cool!

2005-03-05T11:07:00.000-05:00

Flask
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

OK, I know that this one is politically incorrect. But, if I were a smoker, I would, without question, own this.

A simple 6oz flask that I could fill with Wild Turkey and a few Camel filterless (or if you prefer, fill the flask with Night Train and Parliament Menthol 100's - I don't care) for those nights about town. Now if only I could find a perfectly tailored white suit and matching hat and a guy named Sam who can play the piano....

Anyway, about $20.00. Click on the headline for link.

Intel's Mobile Concept PC

2005-03-04T15:32:00.000-05:00

IntelGoConcept
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

The on-the-go concept mobile PC is a new, ultra-mobile notebook PC that would allow consumers in the future to enjoy digital entertainment away from, in and around the home. Intel envisions that software would allow consumers to access ("outside-in") and/or synchronize ("sync-n-go") content from a digital home PC or network.

Small enough to fit in the user's hands, its touch screen doubles as a flat surface speaker, eliminating the need for a keyboard. The unit is designed to aid easy communications for on-the-go consumers. It comes equipped with a wired or wireless keyboard, detachable DVD player, GPS navigation system, a built-in camera and array microphones.

Built in GPS, detachable DVD, touch screen - WOW! Man, convergence is great. I just hope that this becomes a reality and not just fantasy. (Via Geekzone)

More Free Software - Virgin Mobile Radio

2005-03-04T11:40:00.000-05:00

Virgin Mobile Radio
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

What's that? You wish you could listen to the radio on your mobile phone? No matter what carrier you are using? From anywhere in the world?

No problem. "Sydus and Virgin Radio have launched the world's first 3G radio player - so now, you can listen to our stations via the phone in your pocket wherever there's a mobile signal: from central London to Glasgow and from New York to Sydney - whatever network you're on."

Go ahead, download the free software, install it, then look for the Virgin Radio logo on your phone. The legendary Virgin Radio is available in stereo, along with two digital stations, Virgin Radio Classic Rock and Virgin Radio Groove.

Very Cool! Click headlne for link and don't forget to read the section on "Data Costs" so you don't get burned.

Free PIM Software

2005-03-04T09:48:00.000-05:00

EssentialPIM
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

We all love free software. Especially free software that both works right and is useful. Newly-released free Windows software EssentialPIM manages your calendar, to-do list, contacts and outline-style notes on the desktop.

EssentialPIM will import data from Microsoft Outlook refugees and other common formats; it will also export to HTML and text. Supports multiple languages, database password protection and easy backup. Neatest feature is tree-structured notes, perfect for outlines and topic organization. Click on headline for link. (Via Lifehacker)

A Little Off The Deep End

2005-03-03T21:50:00.000-05:00

Oracle
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

"I am from the future. I am writing to you from a temporary fold in space, binding the Internet (or what we call, the Sexnet) in 2146 to 2005. Only electricity can travel through the fold.

Let me tell you about the future.

1. 9 Alarm Chili cook-offs killed off 27% of America's South.
2. Global warming was fixed by blasting the Earth 2 miles further from the Sun. We now have a new month, Soltember.
3. An undiscovered Nuke underneath George W. Bush Stadium in Iraq detonates. The stadium is unperturbed as explosions are easily stopped instantly.
4. George Lucas' great great grandson buys Saturn's moon Mimas and turns it into a Deathstar/Amusement park.
5. I am middle-aged at 82."

But wait there's more -

This is an ebay auction in which you are bidding on the opportunity to add one line of dialog to any character in the auctioneer's screenplay.

The current high bid is $76.00. It's worth it to take a look at this auction.

Click on headline for link.

Cool As A Cucumber

2005-03-03T07:55:00.000-05:00

Asus w300
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

From the website:

"The ASUS W3000 series laptop is designed to provide users with a comfortable experience of mobile computing in everyday life. The 14in. widescreen offers total vision satisfaction for both work and leisure. It is perfect for multimedia applications and multi-tasking is now possible with the W3000's option of displaying two windows simultaneously.

Hidden instant keys, gapless touch pad and latchless cover design are all created to offer a clean and smooth worktop and distraction-free view of screen."

Oh, and you want some additional specs -it is based on Intel's new 90nm Pentium M processor and 915GM/915PM chipset, the Windows-powered W3000 also includes a 14.1in. WXGA LCD, ATI Mobility Radeon X600 GPU, up to 2GB of DDR2 SDRAM (400/533MHz), built-in 802.11a/b/g, three USB 2.0 ports, a TV-out jack, and a built-in card reader.

Looks nice. U.S. pricing not available yet.

Gaming Tablet

2005-03-03T07:48:00.000-05:00

Rogue Tablet
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Video games as engrossing on a bus or in your minivan as it is on your desktop computer? On a tablet computer?

Remember the days of building a computer in your garage (Hello, Apple!), well Shane Lewis, 36, and Justin Dyster, 30, believe their Rogue device, with its ergonomically designed joystick, track ball, triggers and finger buttons and upgradeable components, will be a hit with gaming aficionados.

Rogue would feature an 8.4-inch LCD screen. Lewis projects the Rogue will sell for about $1,500 - the price of a mid-range laptop. It also would function as a tablet computer, one that a user can write into with a stylus.

It's an interesting idea, but the company is trying to raise $20-25 million to get the device into production. It may be a while before we see this one.

Electronic Fly Catcher

2005-03-02T17:17:00.000-05:00

Fly Catcher
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

For all you sadists out there ("Hit Me" - "No") here's a great little gadget for those hot summer nights. It's the electronic fly catcher:

"A non-toxic bait based at the bottom of the jaws lures the insect inside. As the insect crawls into the mouth of the trap, two sensors detect the insect causing the mouth to shut, swatting the insect dead.

As the jaws open for the next victim Fly Catcher emits a loud burp, indicating satisfaction from catching a juicy bug."

Cool. Click headline for link.

Finally, A Real Camera Phone

2005-03-02T12:15:00.000-05:00

LG 5MP
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

What good is a camera phone, if the pictures that you take look like that you used a kaleidoscope lens? How are you going to get really good candid shots of naked celebrities if your camera phone is crippled with a 1.3 megapixel camera or worse?

Well, LG is launching a 5 megapixel camera phone next month and said that it plans on releasing 6 and 7 megapixel camera phones thereafter. It's about time - there's nothing worse then convergence technology where one part of the "converged" technology is practically useless. Now if Sony would only put a 5 megapixel camera in that Walkman phone (scroll down) we talked about yesterday, then we would really have something.

It's Electric - Boogie Oogie Oogie Oogie

2005-03-02T09:23:00.000-05:00

Vectrix
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

From the website:

"The Vectrix VXe electric scooter combines all the benefits of a traditional gas-powered scooter but without the noise, pollution, expensive maintenance, frequent oil changes, and regular trips to the gas station.

The VXe has been designed from the ground up to compete head-to-head with equivalent gas-powered scooters. With a top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h), a range of 70 miles (110 km), 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in just over 8 seconds, and a smooth and vibration-free ride..."

Not only that, but the recharger plugs into a standard outlet and gets up to 80% charge in about two hours. The only problem - it's not going to be available until 2006. Click on the headline for the Vectrix site.

Walkman Cell Phone

2005-03-01T14:14:00.000-05:00

Walkman Cell Phone
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Not that a lot of people weren't already using their phone as a music device, but Sony has just released their W800c cell phone/music player/media player/2 megapixel camera with video record/and built in FM radio.

It has dedicated music controls, memory stick capability for expanding memory and comes with CD ripping software. Oh yeah, it's Bluetooth capable too. This one looks very hot. No pricing yet. Click headline for more specs.

Segway Golf

2005-03-01T11:21:00.000-05:00

Segway Golf
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

As if golf did not have enough gadgets and gizmos and toys, along comes the new Segway Golf "transporter":

"A new personal transporter configured to give golf enthusiasts a new way to cruise the course. With extended-range batteries, a golf bag carrier, enhanced traction tires, and a special standby key, the Segway GT provides the golfer all the tools needed to experience the game in a fun, unique way."

Be the envy of all your retired friends. Only $5,495.00 - but remember, it is not guaranteed to improve your score. Click headline for link.

More Odd Toys For Kids

2005-03-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

Cool P3
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Wow, is this toy cool. An MP3 player for kids between the ages of 4-8(?)! How do I know it's so cool? The marketing department has decided that 4-8 year olds don't want to bother with having to spell "mp3", so they decided to call it the "Cool P3" (leaving the "m" off for moron which is what you might be for buying a 4 year old an mp3 player).

It holds about an hour of music for around $30.00.

Teach Your Child A New Skill

2005-02-28T16:31:00.000-05:00

SafeCracker
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

So what is that old proverb about giving a person a fish and they can eat for one day, but if you teach a person how to fish....

Anyway, here's a terrifically politically incorrect toy, sure to endear yourself to the parents of whatever child you give this to -

Or, is your 401(k) plan looking bleak, not confident in the stability of Social Security in your retirement years, then here's a gift to give your own kids to make sure that they will be able to support you in your old age.

Yes, it's the Spy Safe Cracker which will teach you three separate ways to crack a safe. Great Fun for all ages! Click on headline for site.

Tripod iPod Speakers

2005-02-28T10:53:00.000-05:00

ipod tripod
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Huh? Why would you want to turn your iPod upside down on top of 3 wafer speakers? I have no idea.

Manufactured by AM tech to run on one AAA battery and they promise stereo sound from this contraption. No pricing yet, but it wouldn't matter anyway, since I'm not buying.

Monday Morning Distractions - Lost Your Marbles

2005-02-28T09:27:00.000-05:00

Here's a good time killer for those Monday Morning blahs. A fairly simple flash game where the object is to avoid the walls and pick up the marbles. Start with the Easy version - that should keep you struggling for a little bit before you try one of the harder ones. Or, start with a harder level and have something else to curse at today. Your choice. Click on the headline for site.

OS X for Dummies (or at least new Windows Switchers)

2005-02-27T15:38:00.000-05:00

apple
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Couldn't resist, could you? Bought yourself a nice, small, shiny mac-mini. It sure does look pretty. But, what's all that blue stuff when you turn it on? And how come you don't see any spyware software or virus protection utilities?

Oh, you mean that OS X is not like Windows? That's a good thing, right? Right - you have no idea how much of a good thing it is yet.

Anyway, here's your mini-guide to Mac OS X for new Mini owners (although most of this applies to new apple owners in general). Read, learn, play. Click on the headline for site.

More Google Goodness

2005-02-27T14:02:00.000-05:00

Google
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

In addition to the Google "cheat sheet" that we noted last week, Google has a features page which outlines its capabilities and shows how to use many of its latest features. For example, did you know that you can now Google for your local movies, reviews and showtimes? Or, have you used Google's local search feature to find restaurants or businesses in your neighborhood? And what about the new Google Maps feature - want to know what it is, how it works and how to use it?

Just click on the headline to learn how to use these and other Google features.

Reinventing the Wheel

2005-02-26T19:29:00.000-05:00

Michelin Tweel
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

No flats. Ever. No tubes. No valves. No air! At the Autoshow last month, Michelin introduced the "Tweel", initially intended for Dean Kamen's iBOT systems (and a new Segway prototype which he is also the inventor of), but demonstrated this new technology on an Audi A4 as well.

"The heart of Tweel innovation is its deceptively simple looking hub and spoke design that replaces the need for air pressure while delivering performance previously only available from pneumatic tires. The flexible spokes are fused with a flexible wheel that deforms to absorb shock and rebound with unimaginable ease. Without the air needed by conventional tires, Tweel still delivers pneumatic-like performance in weight-carrying capacity, ride comfort, and the ability to "envelope" road hazards."

This could literally revolutionize all wheeled transportation for the 21st century. To read more about this technolgy just click on the headline.

Retro Gadgets - Vibrating Football

2005-02-26T14:18:00.000-05:00

Vibrating Football
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

I remember being about 7 or 8 (this was the mid-70's) and going over to a friend's house. We went down to his basement where he had this big metal box, on top of which were a jumble of plastic football players that stuck magnetically to a metal field. When you plugged the box in, the box began to vibrate and was so noisy that a leaf blower would seem quiet by comparison. The "object" of the game was to set up your players so that they would vibrate over the goal line. You would usually end up playing until your parents would yell at you to shut that noisy thing off.

Part of the "charm" of the game was the mild electric shock you would get if you attempted to readjust your players while the vibrating feature was on (I don't believe the "shock" aspect was a documented feature).

Anyway, you can relive those glory days and order your own vibrating football game ranging in price from $50.00- $150.00 depending on whether you want the nighttime lights feature. Click on the headline for link.

"What's that you say? Penguin has escaped! We'll be right there!"

2005-02-26T09:39:00.000-05:00

Hot Line Phone
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Impress your friends (as if you really had any to begin with). Get yourself a "no dial" ego boosting phone:

"If you want to feel more important, make people think you're important, or make someone else feel important, get one of our high status bright red ego-boosting VIP phones."

It really works. Just program a number and you can instantly wind back the communications industry about 20 years. Anywhere from $60.00 to $120.00. Click headline for website.

Buy Your Own "Helmut Cam"

2005-02-25T15:24:00.000-05:00

Samsung SC-X105
Originally uploaded by thegadgetguy.

Want to pretend you are in the X-Games? Samsung has just announced its new video camera with extra sports cam module. From the website:

"The SC-X105 features a durable, rubberized body that is water resistant and built to withstand harsh conditions. The pocket-size chassis and streamlined design provide maximum portability for the modern "on-the-go" lifestyle fitting directly into pockets, backpacks and other athletic gear. An extra sports camera module provides hands-free shooting capability and can be mounted on a helmet or other stable surface for extreme-sports recording."

Available in March for about $800.00. Click headline for more information.