Misc

Combining functionality with stylish appearance is becoming increasingly important as computer set-ups are often to be found in the living rooms of many users. One product following this concept is a router from Linksys.

Someone who is new to PCs -- yes, there are still some -- find that getting to grips with their new machine is rather daunting. They need a book which will enable them to get started and guide them through the various tasks they want to perform. Simply Windows 7, by Paul McFedries, which is described as a “Step-by-step introduction to Windows 7” covers most things that the new user will need in a clear manner which is well illustrated with screen shots.

Not as yet a single product, the first an analogue clock that looks like it is a phone, the second a device that is likely to more required as global warming increases even in the UK for removing the discomfort of insect and mosquito bites.

The first is a roll up keyboard designed to be used with Bluetooth devices. The second is even smaller but certainly preferable to using those phone keyboards, the first is possibly touch typeable and the second could be if you have small fingers.

As I take my regular morning walk a new set of headphones have been keeping me company. This headphone set allows me to listen to the music stored on my Sansa Clip+ MP3 player.

A webcam is normally something that notebook users take as a given, however for some reason I do not think I have ever seen one in the top of flat panel and certainly not one in a monitor, this then is for those who use these devices.

As many of us our now on our second (or even third or more PC) it is quite common to find that people have removed and kept the hard disc from the out-dated machine. However, having retained the drive, we may find that we don’t have the means of taking data off it. Freecom’s Hard Drive Dock Pro could well be the answer as it designed to connect a bare SATA or IDE drive to a USB port.

Computerised assistance in helping you get from point A to point B when travelling has come a long way (no pun intended) since the days when Auto Route was introduced. Incidentally Auto Route was the first product that I came across which required the user to activate the software with a phone call.

Combining your existing electronic cabling set-up and WiFi is the approach of the latest HomePlug product from devolo.

The first is a set of red and white lights to attach to yourself – ideal for cyclists – to be seen at night. The second who has tried using the modern touch screen in gloves? This normally will not work, however with these gloves it will.

A visit to a press event introduced me to a Hitachi product that attempted to combine style and an innovative approach to hardware and software.

It can prove extremely useful if you can switch the orientation of certain Apple devices when they are attached to a speaker enhancing product.

An interesting mix an executive toy and something that never existed in my childhood pens designed especially for use for left or right handed children, they even do different models according to the age of the child.

With smartphones, mobile music devices and other electronic gadgets it can sometimes be difficult to find all the power points necessary for recharging purposes. One solution could be to use a universal desktop charger.

Brando from Hong Kong has cornered the market in quirky devices that are in some way powered by USB. Here a USB hub with a touch responsive Plasma Ball, the second DJ Mix Turntable, both these items are fun things.

The first is a good way to listen with some rather nice earbuds multi sized from Shure. The second a really small TV aerial that can give reception in places without a roof or loft aerial, best of all its easy to move with the TV this from OneForAll.

Networking your Computers & Devices Step by Step from the Microsoft Press is a guide to networking a Windows 7 PC with one or more other PCs. As well as networking with other Windows 7 machines, this book also covers networking with Windows XP, and Mac or Linux-based machines as well as sharing printers, devices and files across the home network.

This time it’s not security for a PC but for a home. I have been testing this range of items all held together by a service since the late autumn. While you have a camera or cameras you also have switches for doors and other items.

Two interesting little gadgets both connect via USB and for regular readers only one is from Brando. A USB powered electric razor is something to keep in a desk drawer. The mouse has bolder claims 'change the way you will use your laptop'.

You would have thought that notebook users would be satisfies with the device’s touchpad rather than spend extra on a mouse but often this is not the case.

As hard drive increase in capacity so does the demand for faster data transfer. Verbatim offers a solution.

RockyHydro has devised a system that easily allows a user to choose from over 400 different custom micro-hydro systems to allow the customer to generate electricity from their own water source.

Giving my keyboard and mouse a rest from the usual pounding gave me the opportunity to check out an offering from Logitech.

Here I am looking at three new SD cards, one from Kingston, the second from Verbatim and the other from Integral. All are 64GB and use the new SDXC format (128GB cards will follow shortly). However you will need updated card readers to view your files.

Having purchased a netbook, you might find the lack of an optical drive to be inconvenient. A solution could be to add an external drive

Once considered only suitable for the experienced user, networks are now being promoted as being straightforward and easy to set up with products such as this new offering from Cisco.

Two separate items the first from Edifier a small soundbar for use with a PC or any device with a 3.5mm output. The second Microsofts LifeCam HD-5000 for those without a web cam so probably for those using a PC rather than a notebook.

Combining the ability to take digital notes while recording audio is a product that could be said to have its finger on the pulse.

Having spent a fair amount of money on a new laptop it is important to get a suitable case. The Revolution from STM Bags is a backpack that will be easy to carry around and should provide adequate protection for the laptop even though its internal facilities for accessories could be improved.

If you have built up a collection of business cards then you will know that the card you want is never the easiest to find. Dymo have a solution to this problem.