TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | january 2012

PowerbagRechargeable Backpacks

If you find yourself running out of battery power for your smartphone, cameras and other devices, check out the line of backpacks and messenger bags from Powerbag. It’s pretty much a charging system disguised in a cool-looking bag. Each bag comes with a built-in, lightweight, rechargeable and removable battery. It can connect up to four devices at a time using the included pre-routed connectors (1 micro, 1 mini, 1 Apple) and one USB port. The bag itself recharges by plugging into any standard wall outlet with the included AC Adapter. The battery inside the bag is powerful enough to charge a smartphone up to six times and can even top off most eReaders and tablets. MyPowerbag.com | $139.99

 

ZeroChroma Smartphone

CasesChances are you got a new iPhone or tablet for Christmas. I suggest wrapping it up again but in a protective case to prevent damage. Some newer case models do more like by propping up the device for easier viewing. ZeroChroma makes cases for the iPad, iPhone, Kindle and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7. They do a nice job of protecting the device and allow you to use them in lap, table and angle modes. The cases have an ingenious rotating theater-stand that folds flat. Some of the rotating stands rotate up to 15 different angles for hands-free movies, FaceTime, gaming, email and everything else you do on your gadgets. Each case has an anti-slip rubber edge and stand tip to prevent slipping even if the surface isn’t level. Zerochroma.com | $25-50

Travel Vest by Scottevest
Traveling with many gadgets can be cumbersome and a headache when you get to the airport x-ray machine. Things have gotten a bit easier for me lately after wearing the new Travel Vest from Scottevest. I simply take off the vest and send it through the x-ray machine with my gear inside. The Travel Vest is very lightweight, wrinkle- and water-resistant and comes in styles for men and women. The key is the mostly-stealth pockets, 24 in all. These vests can hold everything from iPads to water bottles. The company’s patented Personal Area Network (PAN) system provides a network of hidden conduits to connect wires to devices while they are in your pockets. One of the most useful are the Collar Loops – specially positioned loops that hold your earbuds in place while making sure they don’t get tangled around or chafe your neck. The sunglasses pocket ensures my glasses don’t get crushed when I sit down and the attached cleaning cloth is a smart idea. The Travel Vest for Men comes in three colors – navy, black and khaki. Women have their own Travel Vest that has 17 pockets and comes in red, black and gray. Scottevest.com | $125

Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 10am-12pm and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

 

 

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | december 2011


Linksys E4200 Home Networking Router
We have so many devices throughout our home and are just now finding ways to share content on them all. Wireless is the way to go and the Linksys E4200 Dual-Band Router is a must-have tool for high-speed media sharing. This sleek-looking router is thin, glossy black and can be placed anywhere throughout your home. Designed for optimum home theater performance, the router works with the latest entertainment devices including Internet TVs, iPads, game consoles, smart phones, eReaders and VoIP devices. The included software provides a simple three-step setup and network management tools such as parental controls and guest access. Now it is simple to stream music or video on your PC to most any device within range of the router.
$179 | homestore.cisco.com


Pandora/DMX Internet Radio
I remember making fun of Muzak-style songs piped into stores and elevators. Though it sometimes puts me to sleep, many businesses rely on services like this to enhance sales and stimulate customer senses. Pandora Internet Radio has partnered with consumer branding company DMX to create a personalized Internet radio solution for businesses. The DMX media player lets business owners play audio using a fully licensed music designed for their commercial setting. Car dealerships, medical offices, restaurants and coffee shops – among others – use this service to make shopping and listening experiences more pleasurable. Signing up for the service is done online. Once you receive the media player simply connect it to the Internet and activate it online. You can then create, play and refine your stations from any Internet browser.
DMX media player – $75 | Pandora Internet
Radio monthly service – $25 | dmx.com/pandora


Looxcie Wearable Video Cam
I first saw the Looxcie video cam about a year ago and got a kick out of the unique idea of wearing a small Bluetooth camera on your ear to capture everything that you see. It was a bit too large and heavy but I figured the second version would have more improvements. Ta-da! The new Looxcie 2 is lighter and easier to use so be careful if you see me wearing this; I may not be on the phone but rather capturing video of everything in my sight. It does act as a typical Bluetooth headset for hands-free phone conversation but primary use is for capturing hands-free video. This new model can store up to 10 hours of 320p video and has the capability of instantly sharing video clips with others via email, Facebook and Twitter. The coolest feature of the Looxcie is the free app that can be downloaded to an iPhone, iPad or Android smartphone. When Looxcie is connected to your Bluetooth smartphone the app acts as a viewfinder so you can see what the camera is capturing and then quickly edit the video. $179 | Looxcie.com

Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 10am-12pm and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | august 2011

LeapPad


For those of you not yet ready to hand over your iPad to your kids in fear of it being dropped or broken, why not get the youngsters a tablet of their own? Educational entertainment company LeapFrog is coming out with the LeapPad, a 5-inch touchscreen housed in a case that feels like it will take a beating. The 480-by-272 display is bright and high quality for a kid’s toy, but noticeably lower resolution than adult smartphones and tablets. When you turn on the LeapPad, you’re prompted to customize it with your name, picture, wallpaper and virtual pet. Several games and activities are preloaded and more can be purchased online at the LeapFrog store. Now you can just let your kids borrow your smartphone.

$99 | LeapFrog.com

VuPointPhoto Cube


Snap a few photos with your smartphone and pretty much the only things you can easily do are post them on Facebook or email them to friends. Now you can print your photos simply by docking your device on the Photo Cube. The Photo Cube from VuPoint Solutions allows you to print photos directly from your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad or Android phones – without the use of a computer. While charging your device, it prints 4” x 6” borderless photos with 300 dpi image resolution. Weighing three pounds and operating on an AC adapter, it’s perfect for travel and quickly printing quality photos at home. It takes just under one minute for a full-color photo to pop out. Photo-quality paper (sold separately) is needed but this sure beats the old 1-Hour photo processing.

$99 | VupointSolutions.com

L5 Remote Control


I’ve tried out a number of universal remote controls though it always seems they get stuck in the sofa cushions or tucked into some improbable spot. Unlike my remotes, my iPhone is rarely out of sight for long and thus a great solution. The iPhone has a perfect display for controlling all of your gear. So when you load a remote control app and add an infrared transmitter to send commands to your components, you’re in business. The L5 transmitter and app lets you arrange and name just the buttons you want to use, or start with a preset layout for common devices, like cable boxes and TVs. You then “teach” the app each button’s command code by pointing your original remote at the L5 transmitter and pressing the button. Just make sure not to lose your iPhone in the couch.

$60 transmitter; free app | L5remote.com

Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY


Could there be anything more fun than taking conference calls and sending emails while playing Tetris or Madden NFL 11 on one device? Let the fun times begin. Powered by Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), the Xperia PLAY from Sony Ericsson is a full-featured smartphone that will appeal to gamers. It has a slide-out game pad that includes a directional keypad, touch joystick, two shoulder buttons and the iconic Playstation symbol keys: circle, X, square and triangle. Customers need to sign up for a Verizon Wireless talk and data package and then play online with others. Over 50 game titles can be downloaded from VCAST apps.

$199 with two-year Verizon Wireless agreement | VerizonWireless.com

 

Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 10am-12pm and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | july 2011

MiMedia Online Backup Storage 

 

MiMedia Online Backup StorageAs portability becomes more prevalent for consumers, cloud storage is popping up everywhere lately. MiMedia just launched a simple media player to create a virtual MP3 player usable on any Web-enabled device. Anyone can now put up to 7GB – the equivalent of 1,000+ songs, 1,400+ photos, 140+ videos or 7,000+ documents – in the cloud, to stream and share from any Web-enabled computer, iPhone or iPad. For larger collections of music, videos and photos, MiMedia offers a 250GB option at $9.99 per month or $99 per year. My favorite part of this service is the option to backup your media with their Shuttle Drive, a plug-and-play USB hard drive that accelerates the initial upload, eliminating long broadband uploads that can take weeks or months to complete. Mimedia.com

 

iMainGo Travel Speakers 

 

A few must-have items at the beach include sun, sand and tunes. It’s not fun wearing earbuds since your buddies can’t hear your music. So take a look at two products from iMainGo. These travel-size speakers are built into an integrated protective case for an iPhone or iPod. The iMainGo 2 ($40) is the smaller version which runs on AC power or 4 AAA batteries (up to 30 hours). The iMainGo X ($70) is a bit bulkier and includes a rechargeable 12-hour battery. This model sounds a bit better due to larger speakers. I like the stereo output jacks so if your buddy also has an iMainGo speaker case you can plug them in together for a stereo sound. iMainGo.com

 

Square Credit Card Reader

 

 

We are halfway through 2011 and my leading candidate for App of the Year has to be Square.  Many times I have been asked if I take cards for some products I sell or speeches I give but since I don’t have a credit card merchant account I have to take a low-tech check. No more. Square is one of the simplest ways to accept credit cards. It’s easy to use and comes with a free credit card reader for your phone or iPad. No complicated contracts, monthly fees or merchant account. When you swipe cards with Square, there is just one fee: 2.75%. Sign-up is quick. The small reader device is mailed to you within a week. Plug it into the earphone jack and start swiping.  Receipts are emailed or sent as a text to recipients along with a Google map of where the purchase location was. Absolutely too cool. SquareUp.com

 

Cyberlock Electronic Locks

 

 

One new way to prevent theft is to retrofit existing lock hardware with a high-tech locking system. It is as simple as removing a mechanical lock’s key cylinder and replacing it with an electronic cylinder from Cyberlock. The system’s electronic keys cannot be duplicated or copied at the local hardware store which literally erases the threat of unknown keys in circulation. If someone loses a key it can be quickly blocked from accessing any locks. With over 270 electronic lock cylinder designs, Cyberlocks can secure interior and exterior doors and cabinets, manage access to computer carts and servers, protect gated areas and much more. Videx.com

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 10am-12pm and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | june 2011

iSafe Backpack with Alarm

Hardware theft continues to be rampant and it is important to protect your laptop, tablet and other gear when traveling. A company called iSafe has patented several lines of backpacks and bags to alert you if that all-important bag leaves your side. The iSafe Collegiate Laptop Backpack comes with a two-speaker alarm and a red strobe light that flashes when a cord is pulled. Perfect for college students and worldwide travelers, one simply needs to carry the bag with a few fingers on the alarm pin. If the bag is pulled away from the owner, a deafening siren should scare off the mugger and alert passersby within a few hundred yards. The alarm-equipped bags also come sized in school backpacks for younger kids and messenger bags. $79.98 | isafebags.com

Iomega iPhone Backup & Charger

Speaking of lost or stolen items, can you imagine what you would do if your iPhone went missing? Family, friends and business contacts may be lost forever. That is why the Iomega Superhero iPhone Backup & Charger could be invaluable. This cradle sits on your counter and plugs into your wall outlet. Just insert your iPhone and it will automatically back up your contacts and other information while recharging the battery at the same time. A progress bar lets you know when your backup is complete. If your iPhone is lost or stolen, you can easily restore your contacts and photos from the SD card included in the Iomega Superhero and put them on your new iPhone.$70 | iomega.com

 

LG G-SlateI

t’s another month so that means at least one new tablet was launched. LG entered the booming category owned by Apple’s iPad with its first tablet, the G-Slate. Partnering with T-Mobile, the LG G-Slate is the first 4G Android 3.0 (Honeycomb)-powered tablet from the two companies. The 8.9-inch, 3D-capable, multi-touch display delivers a fast mobile experience including the ability to record 3D and full HD video via its dual 5MP rear-facing cameras – a unique feature in the current tablet realm. The device is a bit heavy at 1.37 pounds but the speed of the dual core processor makes it worth carrying around the device and using it for everyday tasks. $529 after rebates and with a 2-year wireless plan t-mobile.com

 

foxL Pocket-Sized Stereo Speaker

We love listening to our music when out with our iPods and mp3 players, but sometimes you want to share your tunes instead of rocking out with your headphones. foxL is a tiny portable Bluetooth speaker for iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Android or other Bluetooth devices. About the size of a Snickers bar, the foxL brings music to picnics, the beach or any place. Created by a former NASA audio engineer, the foxL speaker has impressive bass sounds and hits the high notes quite smoothly. The speaker can also be used as a speaker phone for phone calls, which makes this a very versatile product. $199 | soundmatters.com

 

Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 10am-12pm and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

 

 

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | may 2011

Nintendo 3DS

 

If televisions can go 3D, then why not video games? But you don’t need glasses to enjoy fun on the move with the latest from Nintendo. Its new 3DS system brings a new level of depth to games such as Nintendogs + Cats and Steel Driver. Gamers can customize the 3D effect with a special depth slider control. The interactivity is amazing and some of the characters seem to literally jump out of the screen. 3D versions of Madden NFL, Mario Kart and Zelda are on the way. You can also snap 3D pictures with this dual-screen device and make your own Mii characters. I know it is a hit as I haven’t seen my 14-year-old son in days. $249 | www.Nintendo.com

 

Nintendo-3Ds

 

Nintendo 3DS

 

If televisions can go 3D, then why not video games? But you don’t need glasses to enjoy fun on the move with the latest from Nintendo. Its new 3DS system brings a new level of depth to games such as Nintendogs + Cats and Steel Driver. Gamers can customize the 3D effect with a special depth slider control. The interactivity is amazing and some of the characters seem to literally jump out of the screen. 3D versions of Madden NFL, Mario Kart and Zelda are on the way. You can also snap 3D pictures with this dual-screen device and make your own Mii characters. I know it is a hit as I haven’t seen my 14-year-old son in days. $249 | www.Nintendo.com

 

large_TRYX_WE_08

 

Casio TRYX

 

With a 12.1-megapixel sensor and a 3-inch rotating LCD touchscreen, Casio’s TRYX creates a new category. Point, smile, watch and click. The swiveling body lets you see yourself in the frame and snap a well-composed self-portrait. The camera body also functions as a tripod when swiveled. As with most digital cameras, the TRYX can record 1080p HD video and the quality looks great. The pre-loaded software makes it very simple for sharing photos on Facebook, Flickr and YouTube.

 

$249 | www.Casio.com

 

Samsung-Suede

 

Samsung Suede with Muve Music

 

Music continues to be an integral part of our lives, but downloading a song at 99 cents a pop can get pricey. Cricket Wireless figured out a way to appease music fans with a new cell phone with unlimited music downloads. Launched in early April, the Samsung Suede has a 3-inch touchscreen face and packs a 3-megapixel camera and camcorder. But it’s the large music note button that sets this gadget apart from others. Muve Music is the service Cricket created that allows for unlimited music downloads. The music libraries are well-stocked with hits and recommended tracks, and the My DJ portal helps grab tunes by a range of genres. All this music – plus unlimited talk, text email and web browsing – for just $55 a month makes this a winner.

 

$149 | $55/month for unlimited music,

 

talk, text, email, web www.MyCricket.com

 

GKM581R_0

 

Iogear Wireless On-Lap Keyboard

 

More people are surfing the web in their living and media rooms thanks to Internet-ready HDTV monitors. It is a bit tough to type on a remote control so you may want to try a wireless keyboard that rests on your lap. Iogear has such a device that is compatible with your PC, game console and HDTV. The 2.4-GHz Wireless On-Lap Keyboard lets you type up to 33 feet from your entertainment center. The keyboard is designed with comfort in mind; a contoured back helps it rest comfortably on your lap and a slip-resistant rubber grip will keep it in place. Shortcut keys provide quick access to your favorite apps and websites.

 

$75 | www.iogear.com

 

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | april 2011

SensoGlove
I will take any advantage I can on the golf course. But I didn’t realize a glove could improve my swing until I tried the SensoGlove during my last round. This golf glove has built-in sensors that constantly read the pressure of your grip. A built-in computer actively monitors your grip with sensors placed strategically throughout the glove, providing instant feedback at all the points of your swing. Audio feedback warns you at the moment your grip becomes too tight, allowing you to learn and maintain correct grip pressure at every point of your swing. It took me a while to get used to the feedback but I quickly learned when I gave up my death grip for the proper lighter grip. Fore!
$89 | www.SensoGlove.com

SensoGlove

SensoGlove

I will take any advantage I can on the golf course. But I didn’t realize a glove could improve my swing until I tried the SensoGlove during my last round. This golf glove has built-in sensors that constantly read the pressure of your grip. A built-in computer actively monitors your grip with sensors placed strategically throughout the glove, providing instant feedback at all the points of your swing. Audio feedback warns you at the moment your grip becomes too tight, allowing you to learn and maintain correct grip pressure at every point of your swing. It took me a while to get used to the feedback but I quickly learned when I gave up my death grip for the proper lighter grip. Fore! $89 | www.SensoGlove.com

iBike-Dash

iBike Dash

Cycling Computer . Great weather means getting outside to exercise. If you bike, then the new iBike Dash CC (Cycling Computer) is for you. It’s a lightweight wireless bicycle computer system that turns any iPhone or iPod Touch into your own personal fitness trainer. The compact (3.2oz) device is easy to install and takes your biking from leisure to fitness. It measures your speed, power, heart rate, wind speed, time, trip, elevation and calories to become healthier and fitter. The iBike Dash CC includes a free iBike app which features customizable tools, from simple speedometers to workout programs. The app is displayed on the iPhone or iPod touchscreen with easy-to-read graphics and animation. The iBike Dash CC not only is a virtual trainer but also a co-pilot and navigator as it uses the iPhone’s GPS, map and weather capabilities to enhance the biking experience. $199 | www.iBikeDash.com

iGrill

iGrill Wireless Thermometer

I love to grill but my impatience sometimes takes me away from the burgers and chicken. Recently I have been looking at my smartphone to monitor when the meat is just right. The iGrill is revolutionizing the way I cook and grill today and I won’t play chef without it. This device is a grilling/cooking thermometer that offers an app that can be used with your Android phone or iPhone. It communicates with your phone via Bluetooth, so you won’t have to worry about those messy wires. Plug the probe of the device into your chosen meat and then connect the device to your smartphone. The beauty of this thermometer is that you’ll be able to keep an eye on the temperature of your grill while you’re around the house entertaining your guests. $99 | www.iGrill.com

ArtRage

ArtRage

Have you ever wanted to try oil painting but not had the equipment? Or perhaps you are an artist with a computer but no desire to learn complex new tools in a digital environment? ArtRage is a painting and drawing package that simulates real world tools on your computer. It’s designed to work like real painting and drawing tools and can be used by almost anyone. From natural painting tools like an oil brush and paint roller to special effects like sticker spray and glitter tube, this software can be used by beginners, teachers, traditional and digital artists. What’s more, it’s fun to smoosh around paint and blend colors right there on the virtual canvas.
Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 10am-12pm and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | march 2011

Energizer

 

 

 

Inductive Charger

 

 

 

Cords and cables are so 20th century. You can now keep your desk or kitchen counter clutter-free when charging your smartphone. The Energizer Inductive Charger provides a simple way to juice up an iPhone or BlackBerry by simply laying them on the charger – a glossy, flat, black pad. Two devices can be charged simultaneously and a USB port on the side of the pad allows for another device to be, well, plugged in. This advanced technology features Qi (pronounced chee), the new universal standard for inductive charging. Each smartphone does need a separately-sold sleeve which doubles as a protective case.The device charges gadgets at about the same rate as other charging options. But it is easier – and cooler – to toss down your smartphone on a pad instead of finding the proper cord and plugging it in.

 

 

 

$89 (charging pad) | $35 (iPhone/BlackBerry

 

 

 

charging sleeve) | energizer.com/inductive

 

 

 

Energizer Inductive Charger

 

 

 

Energizer-Inductive-Charger

 

 

 

Cords and cables are so 20th century. You can now keep your desk or kitchen counter clutter-free when charging your smartphone. The Energizer Inductive Charger provides a simple way to juice up an iPhone or BlackBerry by simply laying them on the charger – a glossy, flat, black pad. Two devices can be charged simultaneously and a USB port on the side of the pad allows for another device to be, well, plugged in. This advanced technology features Qi (pronounced chee), the new universal standard for inductive charging. Each smartphone does need a separately-sold sleeve which doubles as a protective case.The device charges gadgets at about the same rate as other charging options. But it is easier – and cooler – to toss down your smartphone on a pad instead of finding the proper cord and plugging it in.

 

 

 

$89 (charging pad) | $35 (iPhone/BlackBerry charging sleeve) | energizer.com/inductive

 

 

MicroVision Mini Projector

 

 

 

laser-pico-projector

 

 

 

Smartphones are great devices to look at photos and videos. But if you want to share those memories with others you really don’t want them huddling over your shoulder. Bring on one of the world’s smallest projectors. The MicroVision SHOWWX+ is about the size of a smartphone and can connect to an iPhone, iPad and iPod Apps with TV-Out. It also works with MacBook and other laptops via a VGA dock. Once connected you can enjoy movies, photos, presentations and streaming video up to 100” in image size. It projects on any surface without having to refocus and the image is pretty spectacular. The projector weighs just 4.3oz with battery that lasts about two hours. That sure beats schlepping around a heavy projector and cables like back in the old days.

 

 

 

$399 | microvision.com

 

 

 

Epson Stylus NX625 All-in-One

 

 

 

SmartMirror

 

 

 

Printers continue to get smarter, faster and do more things. Epson ups the ante with its Stylus NX625 printer/scanner/copier.   With built-in WiFi, multiple users can conveniently share one printer. This all-in-one also prints from mobile devices (including the iPhone), offers two-sided printing, boasts a 2.5-inch color LCD and built-in memory card slots for PC-free printing. I have been impressed with Epson’s DURABrite Ultra ink that is water, fade and smudge resistant. Its footprint is small enough to leave a lot of extra space on your desktop as it measures 17” wide and 14” deep. Epson claims this is the world’s fastest all-in-one, spitting out 15 ppm (black) and 7 ppm (color). This is a great device for families and students at an affordable price.

 

 

 

$149 | Epson.com

 

 

 

Dell Streak 7

 

 

 

Dell-Streak-7

 

 

 

Another tablet device is on the market to try and unseat the reign of the iPad. While the Dell Streak 7 won’t outsell Apple’s device it does offer some unique – if not better – options. This is the first tablet designed for T-Mobile’s 4G network and the connection is very speedy when used within T-Mobile’s 4G footprint. It uses the Android 2.2 operating system with a 5-paned home screen for quick access to your favorite apps. Unlike the iPad, the Dell Streak 7 has two built-in cameras including a front-facing webcam for video chatting. The rear-facing camera has a digital and optical zoom, and LED flash, and can shoot HD video. It comes preloaded with T-Mobile TV with access to live and on-demand TV and Qik Video Chat that works on the 4G network and Wi-Fi. And to one-up the iPad it has an SD Card slot to expand the memory.

 

 

 

$200 (with a 2-year T-Mobile contract) | $450 (no contract) | t-mobile.com

 

 

 

 

 

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | november 2010

YAP Voicemail

Yap

Listening to voicemails is a huge waste of time. That’s why apps that transcribe your voicemail to text are a godsend. I’ve tried several and the new Yap Voicemail app – available for the iPhone – is strong. It transcribes voicemails using only speech-to-text technology (no humans), which allows it to offer the service for free (with ads at the bottom). The transcriptions are not perfect but Yap gets enough of the words right to figure out what the message is about. Every time you get a message, a notification pops up with the name of the caller and the beginning of the message. Since it is completely automated, the message appears almost immediately after it is left on your voicemail, just like a text message. You can respond via email, SMS or a phone call right from the app.
Free | www.yapinc.com

Zoom Q3HD – Handy Video Recorder

Q3HD
While pocket cams’ video quality has improved from “good enough” to really actually pretty damn good, audio quality has largely been ignored. The new Zoom Q3HD combines hi-def video with stereo mics for the full pocket cam package. It shoots 1080p video, has an HDMI port, and runs on two AA batteries. But what sets it apart are its built-in stereo condenser mics, capturing 24-bit/96kHz audio that can hold up even if you’re at a concert hoisting the thing above a mosh pit. Audio meters let you check your levels while you’re recording. On-the-go viewing is simple, as a turn of the camera on its side lets you watch your videos anywhere with its “widescreen” color LCD screen and built-in reference speaker. $299 | www.samsonech.com

iPhone Remote Control

iGotControlIGotControl2

The ultimate remote control is the one most handy and nearby. So why not turn a gadget you almost always have near you into a remote controlling device?
i-Got-Control is a plug-and-play accessory that turns an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad into a universal remote, allowing you to control virtually any infrared device – TVs, stereo systems and more – at home or on the go. It boasts more than 40,000 IR codes for consumer electronics worldwide and you can connect and control A/V components, lighting and HVAC systems with no Wi-Fi network, wires or batteries needed. $69.95 | www.i-got-it.com

Looxcie

Looxcie

If you’re obsessed with sharing your life in video, take a look at the Looxcie, a camcorder that you wear over your ear to enable hands-free video capture. The Looxcie connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth to record and share video (it also doubles as Bluetooth headset). For now, the device is compatible only with Android 2.0 phones, although compatibility with BlackBerrys and iPhones is coming soon. The small camera can be adjusted with its bendable ear loop to be worn on the right or left ear.  When turned on, the camera continuously records video in the mp4 format and can store up to five hours of footage. The video is not the highest quality but it sure is convenient. Just remember to keep your head up. $199 | www.looxcie.com

Michael Garfield is known as “The High-Tech Texan®.” His radio program airs on The 9-5-0 weekdays from 9am-11am and Saturdays 11am-2pm. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @hightechtexan.

TOOLS + TOYS + GADGETS | october 2010

CEIVA DIGITAL PHOTO FRAMES

Ceiva Digital Photo Frames

Most likely all of your digital photos are trapped inside your camera or filed away on your computer. What’s the use of taking all those snapshots if you can’t see or share them? CEIVA is the leader in the digital photo frame category and their new frames and sharing services make it almost too simple to show off your photos. The CEIVAshare and CEIVA Pro 80 frames each sport an 8” LCD screen and look great anywhere in your home or office. They connect to the Internet via a phone line or WiFi adapter and automatically download photos sent to your online account. The new PicturePlan Photo Delivery Service allows for automatic delivery of photos to the frame along with personalized news, weather and other topics. This is a perfect gift for technically-challenged folks – once the frame is plugged in to the wall and connected to the Internet, they can just sit back and watch the photos roll in. CEIVAshare frame – $128 | CEIVA Pro 80 frame – $148 PicturePlan Photo Delivery Service – from $6.95/mo. | www.ceiva.com

Equipe Watches

Equipe Watches

Ever since I got a sports car a few months ago I have slowly been turning in to “car guy.” I find myself collecting model cars and cool accessories. Now I can show off my newest passion on my wrist with a watch from Detroit-based Equipe. Inspired by the auto industry, Equipe designs their watches using vehicles as their guide. With names like Balljoint, Dash and Rollbar, you pretty much get the idea. Most of their watches use the tried-and-true Citizen movement, with some custom quartz work on models like the Dash XXL. The watches are built with surgical-grade stainless steel construction, are water resistant to 100 meters, and each has its own VIN-style serial number. They are a bit heavier than a normal timepiece but well worth the extra weight. From $299-$599. | www.equipewatches.com

Corsair USB Gaming Headset

Corsair USB Gaming Headset

If you spend a lot of time online playing “World of Warcraft” or “Call of Duty,” then it is important you communicate clearly with others wasting time with you. Corsair might only be known for their PC components but they’re branching into USB audio gaming headsets as well.
The new HS1 USB headset is a winner, offering 5.1 sound and a built-in boom mic. The clear, low-noise reproduction of the noise-cancelling microphone lets your teammates hear you better, and the extra-large
inline volume and microphone control is easy to grab and use when the action heats up – you don’t need to take your eyes off the screen. The cans are comfortable and the mic quality sounds great to the people on the other side. These are made for gaming, and even though they sound decent enough for music and phone calls, Corsair knows what people are going to use these for. Game on! $99 | www.corsair.com

HP Comaq 6000 Pro All-In-One PC

HP Comaq 6000 Pro All-In-One PC

I have been reading about the supposed demise of the desktop computer as more users migrate to laptop machines. I still find a need for powerful desktop machines, and cutting-edge models like the HP Compaq 6000 make computing simple with a very sleek look. An “all-in-one” incorporates the actual computer inside a flat-screen monitor. There is no box or tower that sits on the floor – just set the monitor on your desk and turn it on. The 22” LCD panel conveniently holds a CD/DVD tray that pops out of the side, a 6-in-1 media card reader, 7 USB ports, webcam and microphone. This particular model is geared toward the business user but consumers will enjoy the speed and ease of use. Connect a wireless keyboard and mouse to the PC and the only wire needed is the power cord. Configurations start from $899. | www.hp.com apps for iPhone, BlackBerry and Android, so you can do monitoring from just about anywhere. $299 | www.logitech.com

By Michael Garfield