Showing posts with label Geeky. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Geeky. Show all posts
Friday, June 14, 2013
If you really care about your car, you will probably spend considerable time and money on making it look as good as possible. But have you been as extravagant on the way your machine runs and handles? A good car is only as valuable as the way it manages to start first time every time. There are scores of motors out there that look the absolute bomb but underneath there lies a different story. This article takes a look at some very sweet gadgets out there that profess to make your ride a lot more enjoyable. We say that talk is cheap and take a closer look at these claims.
Delphi Connected Car - POA
We get the gadget ball rolling with this little ripper from Delphi, it may be small but it has a big heart and loads of useful features! You simply install this small black box and it transforms your ride into a remote controlled marvel. It will allow you to pick up engine faults and diagnose your engines actual capability. The device is Bluetooth enabled and can send a signal back to your PC as to where in the world it actually is, just like a GPD tracker in fact. You can check on the actual and average speed of the car from a remote location as well. This is very useful for those concerned parents who have let their kids loose on their pride and joy! If your car has automatic locking and alarm features installed, you will be able to control and monitor both of these remotely as well. We love this gadget and are confident that most of you will feel the same way too! Basically, the more automated features that your car has as standard, the more useful and fun this gadget will prove to be.
We get the gadget ball rolling with this little ripper from Delphi, it may be small but it has a big heart and loads of useful features! You simply install this small black box and it transforms your ride into a remote controlled marvel. It will allow you to pick up engine faults and diagnose your engines actual capability. The device is Bluetooth enabled and can send a signal back to your PC as to where in the world it actually is, just like a GPD tracker in fact. You can check on the actual and average speed of the car from a remote location as well. This is very useful for those concerned parents who have let their kids loose on their pride and joy! If your car has automatic locking and alarm features installed, you will be able to control and monitor both of these remotely as well. We love this gadget and are confident that most of you will feel the same way too! Basically, the more automated features that your car has as standard, the more useful and fun this gadget will prove to be.
Inrete Automatica - $99
Unless you over 150 years old, you will probably enjoy pumping out some tunes as you cruise around on those long summer evenings. The only challenge is when you are a little bored of that particular mix disc you so lovingly crafted last week. But you are too far from home to pop in for a better choice. Well now you don’t have to worry at all, because the Inrete Automatica is here to take care of your audio desires, and then some! This device holds 4GB of storage and that’s an awful lot of music! It also has the ability to sync into your Dropbox or Skydrive account and allows you to pull in whatever tracks float your boat, or car! It comes in a flashdrive size package and has enough tunes to fill the Sydney Opera house! An awesome piece of kit in a tiny package, you’ll soon make this beauty a permanent passenger!
Unless you over 150 years old, you will probably enjoy pumping out some tunes as you cruise around on those long summer evenings. The only challenge is when you are a little bored of that particular mix disc you so lovingly crafted last week. But you are too far from home to pop in for a better choice. Well now you don’t have to worry at all, because the Inrete Automatica is here to take care of your audio desires, and then some! This device holds 4GB of storage and that’s an awful lot of music! It also has the ability to sync into your Dropbox or Skydrive account and allows you to pull in whatever tracks float your boat, or car! It comes in a flashdrive size package and has enough tunes to fill the Sydney Opera house! An awesome piece of kit in a tiny package, you’ll soon make this beauty a permanent passenger!
Kensington Proximo - $60
Hands up those of us who have parked up in a new location, only to spend ages remembering exactly where the damn car is? It is a common occurrence and some of us never seem to learn from this mistake! Well the Kensington Proximo is a very forgiving gadget that will ensure we are never left in the lurch again. You simply leave the sensor in your car and the Proximo does the rest. It automatically displays a detailed map and locates the exact spot that your car has been parked. A lovely device that will save you loads of stress and hassle in the future.
Hands up those of us who have parked up in a new location, only to spend ages remembering exactly where the damn car is? It is a common occurrence and some of us never seem to learn from this mistake! Well the Kensington Proximo is a very forgiving gadget that will ensure we are never left in the lurch again. You simply leave the sensor in your car and the Proximo does the rest. It automatically displays a detailed map and locates the exact spot that your car has been parked. A lovely device that will save you loads of stress and hassle in the future.
Convinced Yet?
We think that these 3 gadgets will definitely help you to enjoy the more important things in driving a little easier, just remember where you read about them first!
We think that these 3 gadgets will definitely help you to enjoy the more important things in driving a little easier, just remember where you read about them first!
Author Bio:
Today’s guest author, works for Pro Mobile Car
Detailing, a leading provider of car care products in Australia. He is a racing enthusiast and loves to go on long
drives in his spare time.
Friday, June 14, 2013 0
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
In years past, motorcycling was assumed to be a rather low-tech affair that relied more on the driver’s common sense and direction than it did any sophisticated form of technology. These days, however, changes in the way we do just about everything have led to the hobby becoming more gadget-friendly as drivers seek to gain as much safety, convenience and efficiency out of their driving experiences. If you have been considering ways in which you can augment the level of enjoyment and functionality you experience while out on a leisurely drive or cross-country journey, then you will enjoy the following four gadgets.
Ram
Mount iPhone Cradles
These cradles are designed with the gadget-laden motorcyclist in mind. Intuitive construction allows for easy access to power cables and headphone jacks, while sturdy materials ensure that your phone is never lost or dropped while in place. Many motorcyclists have begun using these cradles as a way to plot out their destinations and navigate while keeping both hands on the handlebars. These cradles can be found for as low as $15 and make a valuable addition to any motorcycle that wants to be on top of navigation, maps and weather while on the road.
Battery
Tenders
Very few of us live in areas where we can use our motorcycles year-round. This unfortunate circumstance can lead to batteries dying in between seasons; sitting for just a few months can kill a perfectly good battery. Fortunately, trickle chargers and battery tenders can prevent this from occurring and are easily obtainable. Beginning at just $30, battery tenders will supply the correct amount of voltage and amperage to your motorcycle’s battery to keep it alive through the colder months while in storage. Consisting of just a few connectors and adaptor, battery tenders can be easily stored away when warmer weather arrives and it is time to hit the streets once again.
Handlebar
Outlets
Sometimes our external gadgets need power – motorcycles by default might not be the most accommodating in this regard. Thankfully, handlebar outlets allow motorcyclists to install custom power outlets directly into or onto the handlebars, allowing for easy charging of any product while on the go. Starting at around $60, these add-ons will help provide power for anything from a cigarette lighter to a laptop (although we recommend NOT charging a laptop while driving, but you already knew that). Simply wire the device into your battery, secure it to the handlebar and you are ready to begin charging whatever devices necessary from the road.
Extended Range
Communicators
Keeping in touch with fellow cyclists on the road can be difficult when driving and trying to use a cell phone – not to mention downright dangerous. Extended range communicators can be installed to virtually any motorcycle and allow for seamless communication use headsets and microphones, functioning very much like a hands-free walkie talkie over long distances. While not the cheapest addition to your motorcycle (starting around $300), these communication devices allow instant and unfettered dialogue between multiple parties and make for a great addition to any social cyclist’s gadget box.
Author Bio:
Today's guest author, Mark Wilde, is a sales executive at Yucaipa Trailers, a firm that provides cargo trailers for sale in California, US. He is an active social networking websites user and enjoys socializing.
Today's guest author, Mark Wilde, is a sales executive at Yucaipa Trailers, a firm that provides cargo trailers for sale in California, US. He is an active social networking websites user and enjoys socializing.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013 0
I remember when I got into gaming for the first
time. I was only 9 years old and it was a complete surprise when, on my
birthday, I opened my main present to find a Sega Megadrive hidden underneath
the blue wrapping paper. The present changed my life forever and set me off on
a huge passion for gaming over the next 17 years.
Consoles have developed massively in this space of time and I feel privileged to have played on some of the best of them.
Sega Megadrive 2
As I already mentioned, my first console was the Sega Megadrive 2. No different to the original Megadrive in terms of games or power, it was just the look that had been updated which reduced its size and helped it appear sleeker. At the time this 16-bit console was cutting edge, with the awesome Sonic the Hedgehog series leading the line. I actually loved a little known game called Phelios which had me hooked for hours on end.
Nintendo 64
What can I say about the N64? It’s a sheer masterpiece which still has nostalgic demand to this day due to the console’s incredible selection of games. From the multi-player genius of Goldeneye and Mario Kart, to the absorbing single-player marathons found in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Mario 64 - I felt privileged to own an N64 throughout its peak.
Sony Playstation 2
The first console with disc games that I owned was the Playstation 2. Never before had I owned a Sony console and firmly on the Nintendo side of the fence during the N64 era, the PS2 appeared to be the best choice of next-gen machines when up against the Gamecube and Sega Dreamcast. And to be fair, it got me into great games such as Gran Turismo, Fifa and Need for Speed.
Nintendo Wii
I then reverted back to Nintendo when they released the Wii in 2006. First of its kind, with motion controllers, along with another brilliant Zelda launch title, Nintendo have always impressed me with the way they continually push the boundaries of technology. Wii sports also remains a classic, by bringing games like tennis, bowling and golf into your own living room. Some claim that the Wii is only a casual gamers console, but I disagree and there are a number of gems to really get stuck into for those who own one.
What next?
Although I haven’t upgraded to a Wii U (it doesn’t look a big enough upgrade to me), the next-generation of consoles are due for release at the end of this year. It’s a toss-up for me between the Playstation 4 and perhaps trying the new offering from Microsoft for the first time!
Author Bio:
Henry Williams is gaming enthusiast who has owned a number of consoles down the years. He decided to sell his old Playstation 2 online and now does this every time he decides to invest in a new console.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Some of the new and expensive cars on the market have an unbelievable amount of technology included. They have voice sensors for the air-conditioning, special seats that mould to your particular body shape and that is just the tip of the iceberg. Most of us love a few toys to play with when it comes to our cars. But if you can’t afford a top of the range new vehicle, where does that leave you? Well, thankfully there are a load of cool gadgets that have been produced with you in mind. They won’t convert your 10 year old beast into a Bugatti Veyron, but they will bring you some fun and even a little functionality every now and then. Stop dreaming about the latest Maserati and read this article, you may even like some of these gadgets.
GoLink iPod Cable - $99
The cost is for the actual cable which is clever piece of equipment indeed. It links your iPod to the car’s computer and, using the app, relays information to the handheld device. You need to have a real ‘play’ on the application, but you will soon get the hang of it. Your engine codes, weird noises and general running issues will soon be soundly diagnosed. The app will probably not be able to fix the issue, but will certainly point you in the right direction. We absolutely love this clever cable and app, and so will you!
Piloti Driving Shoes - $75 - $180
These cool trainers are the last word in functional driving equipment for the feet. Although they look like an expensive pair of running shoes, they are designed for one thing in mind – Driving! The shoe is available in suede with a fire-resistant liner, known as ‘Nomex’. Those of you who know the phrase ‘toe-and-heel’ will really appreciate the finesse that is delivered by putting these shoes through their paces. They may be designed for the real professionals, but even we learner drivers will dig these cool driving shoes!
Craftsman Cordless Impact Driver - $100
On first appearances this looks like a standard, if oversized, electric screwdriver. But it is the bee’s knees for removing those stubborn wheel nuts. You know the ones that even Godzilla would be hard pressed to remove. It can deliver an awesome 200lb-ft of torque with very little effort, it also generates 3000 impacts per minute. You need this tool, like yesterday!
Garmin 665 - $1000
Okay, the price tag suggests that this is more than just your standard satellite navigation system, and it certainly is! As well as running all of the usual Garmin high-end Satnav features, it is also totally weatherproof. Bluetooth and digital radio are also included, making this the Daddy of all satnav systems! You can use this in your car, on your motorbike or even on your speedboat, if that is where it’s going on!
Okay, the price tag suggests that this is more than just your standard satellite navigation system, and it certainly is! As well as running all of the usual Garmin high-end Satnav features, it is also totally weatherproof. Bluetooth and digital radio are also included, making this the Daddy of all satnav systems! You can use this in your car, on your motorbike or even on your speedboat, if that is where it’s going on!
There are Four, Any More?
We think you will love all of these fabulous gadgets, but if not, check out the internet for some more. There are literally hundreds of useful, and not so useful, gadgets out there just for you!
Author Bio:
Today's
guest author, Roger White, is a sales executive at Get Me Tires, a
premium Goodyear tire dealer based in
Canada. He is ardent blogger and writes on a variety of articles
in his articles. He enjoys listening to soft music in his spare time.
Monday, June 10, 2013 0
Saturday, June 8, 2013
We’re
stuck in a bubble at the moment. Samsung and Apple are at each other’s
throats as Google looks on nervously: the future of the smartphone market is
due a big change and it’s due one soon. While, for those of you lucky
enough to have had a play with one, Samsung’s Galaxy S3 is a real step up from
its popular but legally copycat predecessor, it doesn’t really change much in
the world of phones, just tweaks what’s already there. Don’t get me
wrong, these changes are excellent but you get the impression that some
commentators are right; innovation has been stifled in the race for
sales. Which is why a piece of under-reported news coming out of a
relatively small UK company from Cambridge (we know another small Cambridge
manufacturer who recently went big time…) is actually deserving of much bigger
headlines. Plastic Logic have
developed their first colour, video capable screen. Not that big a deal
until you consider that it’s made with plastic electronics – organic
manufacturing that leaves it completely flexible and almost indestructible.
Flexible Living
Now, for those unfamiliar with this idea of plastic (or organic) electronics, it’s based around the use of carbon-based conductive polymers and molecules. This means that a screen can be made that is completely organic and does not need a large power supply at all times, such as with a traditional display. Not only does it have implications on power usage, however – pertinent to these green times as that may be – but it allows for complete flexibility. Modern phones allow a small amount of give in their screens – they should respond to your touch after all – but if you bend them, they’re likely to snap. With the phone of the future, made with plastic electronic technology, your device could be folded in on itself, wrapped around a wrist and dropped harmlessly into your briefcase or pocket without worry of damage.
Organic Technology in Action
This technology has been around for a little while, however, with one main use: e-readers. E-paper has become more popular as it dispenses with the need for a backlight. Not only does this save power but it is far better for your eyes too. Up until now, however, these screens have not been available in colour. Thus, this new technology from Plastic Logic can be greeted with a great deal of triumph, despite its limitations. While the screen is capable of playing video, its refresh rate of 12 fps is too low to really do justice to anything except basic animations, while the resolution is limited to a measly 75 ppi due to the nature of the dual layered colour device. Its potential however is huge. At less than the thickness of a credit card and the flexibility of paper, future devices could be used as newspapers, tablet computers, phones, watches and whatever other electronic tool you need.
In 2009, the British government announced that it wanted to champion plastic electronics. While they seem to have forgotten this with a change of government, the Russians are taking full advantage. Plastic Logic’s devices are already in action in Russian schools, allowing children to read, annotate and engage with the future of on-the-go tech.
Author Bio:
Raxanne Clipper writes about the latest technology, especially about phones, tablets and e-papers. When she is not writing she likes to be together with her friend s and family.
Raxanne Clipper writes about the latest technology, especially about phones, tablets and e-papers. When she is not writing she likes to be together with her friend s and family.
Saturday, June 8, 2013 0
Friday, June 7, 2013
Be honest, it can be a real trial getting through those Friday afternoons in the office. We all could use a little light relief whilst chained to our desks. It makes things even harder when you are in a little booth without any connection to the outside view. The boss is always breathing down your neck and when there is nothing to do, well then you have to really pull something out of the bag to look busy. Thankfully there are some cool desk related gadgets out in cyberland just waiting for you to give them a chance. They will certainly make your desk a more interesting place to be, and some even have a practical side to offer! Let’s take a stroll into the land of office gadgets and see if any of them tickle your fancy!
Fincredibles Electronic Fish - $40
You may think that your office desk doesn’t need a fish tank on display, but you would be wrong! The Fincredibles Electronic Fish will provide you hours of entertainment and will never require any of that smelly cleaning out process that real fish tanks demand. You can lose yourself within seconds of watching the colourful little goldfish larking around. These are so realistic that cats have been known to add them to their Christmas wish list! It takes 3 AA batteries to power the gadget and they will last you about 6 months. We think that this is just the trick to make those dreary Monday mornings a thing of the past!
Retro Red Car Mouse - $13
If you ever lusted after a really cool car from yesteryear but couldn’t afford the steep price tag, well here is the next best thing! This ultra sexy mouse is shaped just like a VW Beetle and actually functions pretty well as an office tool! The optical mouse contains a discreet connector and has been built to a very high quality indeed. The grip on this gadget makes it just as easy as a standard mouse but about 100 times as interesting. The car’s headlights illuminate when in use and you will soon be asked about where you got this cute accessory from. Just remember not to lend it to anybody as you will surely never see the Beetle again!
iPhone Desktop Phone - $22
This is for all of those Apple addicts out in ‘officeland’, and it really is a winning gadget with some practicality to boot! You simply dock your iPhone into the cradle and it allows you to use the retro handset as if you were using a landline device. You can use the device for searching or updating as you speak into the phone device. It looks exactly like a real phone and will never slip away thanks to the cool rubber grip attached to the base. This will also charge your iPhone whilst you are working away. We love this gadget and think that you will soon be the coolest individual in your office if you decide to get one for yourself!
This is for all of those Apple addicts out in ‘officeland’, and it really is a winning gadget with some practicality to boot! You simply dock your iPhone into the cradle and it allows you to use the retro handset as if you were using a landline device. You can use the device for searching or updating as you speak into the phone device. It looks exactly like a real phone and will never slip away thanks to the cool rubber grip attached to the base. This will also charge your iPhone whilst you are working away. We love this gadget and think that you will soon be the coolest individual in your office if you decide to get one for yourself!
Impressed? We Are!
There you have it, 3 very different but equally charming gadgets for your office desk. Why not buy all three and watch your popularity soar!
There you have it, 3 very different but equally charming gadgets for your office desk. Why not buy all three and watch your popularity soar!
Author Bio:
Today’s feature writer, Alfred Atkinson is a part of the team at print Three, one of the leading postcard printing services in Toronto. He is a frequent blogger and regularly writes about the most innovative apps and gadgets that make your social and business life a lot easier.
Friday, June 7, 2013 0
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Geek culture has become mainstream. It
happens to every subculture eventually, but this one crept up on the world, and
over the past decade, the same things that were once cherished by the unpopular
kids have blown up and become the focal point for every popular media outlet
around the world. It’s a great turn of events for a new generation of
parents who have identified with one or more aspects of geek culture for most
of their life. Here are a few ways you can encourage your child to follow
in your footsteps, and why.
It’s a Popularity Contest…
Comic books were once something that only the uncool kids read. It was relegated to reading under a shady tree on the playground because either the other kids left you out of their game, or you simply weren’t interested. Today, comic book movies are the biggest money makers in Hollywood. Instead of a culture where “my dad could beat up your dad” is uttered, it’s “my dad’s comic collection is bigger than yours.” While it should not be encouraged to strive for popularity at the cost of your beliefs, encouraging your child’s interest in geeky hobbies because they are genuinely enjoyable can lead them to a more satisfying social life. It’s a win-win!
…That Geeks aren’t Concerned With
Most geeks don’t really care about being popular. They aren’t sitting out from sports because they couldn’t do well, they just don’t care about them. Living outside of social norms became such a movement that it’s now much more acceptable. The great thing about being a geeky parent is knowing that when you pass on your values and interests to your children, they will become socially independent. If and when comic book films, the Big Bang Theory, and cyber-culture settle down; real geeks will still love these things.
Embracing who you are and what you are interested in, and following those passions in life no matter what everyone else is doing is a wonderful way to be. While popular kids may sometimes shun you for it, if you were ever to sit down one on one with them, they’d admit a certain degree of jealousy. Geeks have cooler toys. Geek girls don’t have to worry as much about fashion. It’s a very liberating lifestyle.
Intelligence takes You Places
If you’re not sold that you should indoctrinate your kids to a lifestyle of taped glasses and pocket protectors, consider what you want for them in life. A stable future should definitely be on that list, and that relies on doing well in school. Studies are showing that video games can help to that end. So while your kid is pumping quarters into that Ms.Pacman arcade machine while all the other kids are running around the jungle gym, think about the long-term.
Intelligence is valued within the geek community, and test scores are often held up with pride instead of the point spread in the latest football game. Encourage your sons & daughters to embrace their mind and their independence, and let their geek out. They may lead a better life for it.
Author Bio:
Sean
Carter is an experienced writer who has covered such topics as video games,
mobile devices and other technologies for blogs all over the internet.
Thursday, June 6, 2013 0
If you are one of those unfortunate people who find that getting a good night’s sleep is an uphill struggle, join the club! Millions of people across the world have the same difficult and many of them have found help by speaking to their doctors. Sleep Apnea is a serious condition that can really affect the quality of our lives. There are some clever devices that assist people with this condition. However some of us do not have full blown sleep Apnea, but still suffer from sleepless nights nonetheless. This article takes a look at some helpful gadgets currently on the market that may be just what the doctor ordered!
NightWave Sleep Assistant - $49.99
We get the ball rolling
with this clever little device called the NightWave Sleep Assistant. It is only
about the size of a jewellery box but certainly packs a punch in the battle for
sleep! The device projects a soft, pulsing blue light onto your wall or ceiling
as you prepare to sleep for the night. You are then required to undergo a
bespoke breathing exercise that follows the actions of your new blue best
friend. This continues for about 7 minutes, at which point you should be
entering the land of nod. We have tried this routine and it actually works! By
following this pattern, you are teaching your body how to relax and stop all
active thoughts. A definite winner in the war against sleepless nights, check
this out soon!
Verilux Rise & Shine Natural Wake-Up Light - $99.95
This device is supposed
to offer you an idyllic environment to wake up into. It is a very clever gadget
and acts as a natural alarm clock that will ease you into the morning without
any loud noises or harsh lights. The gradual introduction of light accompanied
with the sounds of birds chirping quietly allows your senses to recover in a
chilled and civilised manner. We love this device and couldn’t get enough of
the beautiful vibe it emits, and you can leave your dreams on hold until the
next time!
Zeo Sleep Manager Pro - $99
This wonderful gadget
teams up with an iPhone app in order to analyse your sleeping pattern down to a
tee. You are required to wear a small headband during your slumber, and this
features a small device that monitors your sleeping pattern like a real live
lab technician. The results are transmitted wirelessly to your iPhone app. This
information is relayed to the Zeo website where your pattern is fed into a
special algorithm-like process. You are then advised on what action to take in
future in order to achieve a more balanced sleeping pattern. The advice is
usually a mixture of exercise, diet and relaxation tips. This machine has been
proven to bring sleep to the masses and we like it very much indeed!
What’s Next?
Each one of these three
clever little gadgets are very good at helping you to get some much needed
rest. But you should also speak to your local GP before taking any extra advice
on board. Your doctor will probably agree that the basics need to be addressed
before buying any additional home appliance assistance – Good Luck!
Author Bio:
Today’s guest author, Abbey Brooks, is a sales executive at CPAPonly, a dealer that provides CPAP breathing machines. She is an avid blogger and enjoys sharing her views on a variety of topics, although her niche is healthcare.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Spending around 8 hours per day in the same office can be a bit of a chore at times. It is nice to have a few handy distractions on hand that offer some function as well as creating a talking point. We have all seen the desk mounted punchball and the cat’s cradle stress reliever, but surely there must be something a little more ‘out there’ to bring into our daily routines. Well there are a number of cool gadgets just waiting for your office to adopt them, and this article looks at a few of them right now!
Hard Drive Clock – TECOART - $50
On first appearances this groovy clock tends to draw a gasp of silence followed by a nice big “Wow!’ It is coolness defined and keeps time pretty well also! It doesn’t actually use the hard drive as a base, because that would be pretty dull to be honest. Instead it employs a redundant SoundBlaster card and really looks the part. The hard drive is represented by a single platter that offers a lovely clock face for you to check out your reflection in. This is taking recycling to the max as you will never want to throw away an old PC again. This will prove to be a great conversation piece as well as functioning as an awesome office clock. The whole structure is only about 6 x
Anti-Theft Lunch Bags - $36
Talk about simple genius, because these lunch bags are going to save you a fortune in stolen sandwiches. They automatically turn a lovely fresh item of food into a mold infested piece of garbage! The green splotches on the outside of the PVC sealable bag resemble a nasty case of food mold. There are several different models of lunch bags including the mothers’ favourite brown paper version. No matter how delicious your home made pie may be, nobody is going to touch your lunch ever again. Just make sure the cleaners don’t throw it into the trash can!
Multifunctional Magnetic Stones – Troika - $65
This product has it all, combining a cool design with a functional application, your office will fall head over heels with this awesome gadget! Essentially, these are a set of magnetic stones that have been selected in a set of different sizes. They balance perfectly on a circular base and can be used to keep your post-it pads in place, store your metal clips and pins, or just act as an alluring conversation piece. Pretty soon there will be a whole family of these magnetic stones taking over your office. Just be careful to keep your expensive wrist watch a safe distance away!
Jellyfish Tank - $300
We probably kept the coolest gadget until the end, but who can blame us? This desktop jellyfish tank actually has no real function, but we forgive it! There are a selection of jellyfish and normal fish to choose from and the device is so stunning, you will find it hard to concentrate on your work. The jellyfish are absolutely real and will require feeding at regular intervals. Although it is not cheap, it will certainly have the ladies in accounts popping by your desk more times than usual!
Happy Now?
4 great gadgets to help you get through the week, and some of them even have a feature that helps you work, what more could you ask for?
Author Bio:
Rose Jones, author of this article, works for an office supply company in Ontario. She is quite fond of her work and she likes to spend time with her family after work.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013 0
Friday, May 31, 2013
Some jobs even the toughest of people can’t do,
while some others are just unpleasant. Increasingly, this is where robots come
in. With modern advances, robots can go further and do more than ever before.
BigDog
This
dynamically stable four-legged robot was created in 2005 by the Boston Dynamics
robotics team, in partnership with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the
Harvard University Concord Field Station. This buzzing ‘bot rights itself when
pushed and can move quickly, carrying heavy loads, across a variety of
terrains, autonomously adjusting to the surface it's walking on. It’s just
under a metre long and weighs a hefty 110 kilograms. Its intended use hasn’t
been officially announced, but it has been described as a military robot mule,
designed to reduce the loads that soldiers have to carry.
Robokiyu
Developed
by the Tokyo Fire Department, this robot is tasked with the important and
difficult job of pulling bodies from rubble, as well as removing people at risk
of asphyxiation from burning buildings. The robot also spares humans the
emotionally traumatising process of removing corpses from rubble and debris.
The robot, which is radio-controlled, uses two robotic arms to pinch and haul
bodies and drag them into a mouth-like hole below two eye-like headlights.
Robot Prison
Guard
As
if prison couldn’t be a bleaker and drearier place, South Korea has discovered
a way to take the inhumanity of being caged up even more painful. No longer
will you receive human contact from prison guards, because they’re now robots.
These robots are used to monitor cells for suspicious activity. They’re billed
as semi-autonomous and mood-sensing, and are able to form ideas of patterns of
behaviour for individual inmates so that they can detect any abnormalities,
being particularly useful in preventing attempts at inmate suicide.
Industrial
Robots
Industrial
robots are the burly machines used in heavy-duty factory tasks such as welding,
large-scale packaging and palletizing, assembly and product testing. They
provide unmatchable speed, endurance and precision. Depending on its purpose,
each of these industrial behemoths is fitted with a specific “end effector”, or
end-of-arm tooling, which may be anything from a welding gun, spray gun,
grinding surface or gripping tool.
Sentry Machine-Gun ‘Bots
Developed
by the Apple's arch nemsis in the smartphone market, Samsung Techwin Co, these
robots were developed to monitor the demilitarized zone between North and South
Korea. They use low-light cameras and pattern recognition technology to
distinguish people from animals and other moving objects. If a robot deems it
necessary, it will aim and fire the machine mounted to it, a Daewoo K3.
Hydronalix’s
EMILY
Every
year, hundreds of people drown due to rip tides and other types of dangerous
sea currents, which may sweep even the strongest of swimmers out to sea. EMILY,
the Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard, steps in in these situations. The
four-foot-long rescue buoy zips across choppy waters at speeds as high as 40
kilometres per hour, using a jet-ski type impellor and pushing out the
sea-water to propel itself across the surf.
Author Bio:
This post was provided courtesy of Jeff, a fan of all things robotic who works for HVDH, a South African industrial engineering company.
This post was provided courtesy of Jeff, a fan of all things robotic who works for HVDH, a South African industrial engineering company.
Friday, May 31, 2013 0
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Ambiance is everything, and there's nothing better to spice up your home's environment than the right type of lighting. With so many options – lamps, wall-mounted fixtures, ceiling lights – it can be hard to choose the right type of fixture, let alone the perfect wattage or hue. While we cannot help you with wattage or brightness, there are some great lighting gadgets out there that can take the ease out of installing complicated fixtures or dealing with bulky table lamps. Below, we've outlined four great lighting gadgets that anyone in the home will love and that will add a kick to the vibe of any room.
Multi-Color
LED Lighting Kit
Why settle for one form of lighting when you can have dozens of unique colours on demand? The Multi-Color LED Lighting Kit ($44.99) is a versatile LED strip that comes with a remote control designed to give you total control over the mood of a room. Installation is simple, taking only a few minutes, and the LED lights are guaranteed to last for 50,000 hours. Simply adhere to the wall, connect the power source and you are ready to go! With 15 different colours to choose from, plus an array of transitional settings, you can rest assured that your living room or bedroom will always have a dynamic glow.
Jellyfish2
Color Lamp
This glowing lamp mimics the look of a Jellyfish, and likewise gives off a phosphorescent glow that turns any drab room into a vibrant sanctuary. In many respects, this is just like your very own colour wheel: with over 16,000,000 colours to choose from, you will never cease to find a glow that suits your mood. If a swirl of colour is more to your liking, you can even set it to oscillate between various colours to keep yourself and those around you mesmerized. The Jellyfish2 Color Lamp ($79.99) is designed to attach to any wall and was the winner of the 2010 Red Dot Design Award for its innovation.
Color-Change
LED Candle Set
If a lamp is not in your taste, then the Color-Change LED Candle Set ($29.99) may be right up your alley. Featuring all the coolness of real candles without the smoke, fire and danger, these awesome toys can be programmed to display up to twelve different colours in a steady or rotating fashion. The candles themselves generate a pleasant scent of vanilla throughout the room while being powered off of AAA batteries. The included remote makes activating the trio simple and effortless: perhaps one of the best no-tangle, no-mess lighting solutions available.
LED Magnetic
Digital Graffiti
Magnets that light up? Sounds cool, right? The LED Magnetic Digital Graffiti package gives you unfettered access to lighting in places where it might not otherwise be possible. Included are 20 LED lights with magnetic strips and batteries attached, allowing them to be slapped onto any ferrous surface you can imagine. The lights will glow for up to 48 hours before running out of juice, but at just $12.99, they make a great gift for someone who enjoys pretty, shiny things.
Author Bio:
Jake Tyler is marketing manager at sassysigns.com.au, a prominent name for led house signs. He is a tech enthusiast and loves collecting fancy gadgets. In his spare time, he writes articles on technological issues.
Jake Tyler is marketing manager at sassysigns.com.au, a prominent name for led house signs. He is a tech enthusiast and loves collecting fancy gadgets. In his spare time, he writes articles on technological issues.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 0
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Trends show us that an ever increasing number of
people are flocking to cities in pursuit of a higher standard of living, better
job opportunities and more active social lives. One reason people are not
flocking to the cities is the lack of space most urban apartment situations
offer. Living in an apartment can be a quaint or crowded experience, depending
on your outlook. Fortunately, technology is taking some of our favourite things
and making them smaller and more efficient, leaving us with more space for
necessary items. Below, we'll outline four great gadgets that will revive that
drab apartment without taking up heaps of space.
Vers
Audio Bluetooth Sound System
Wires can be a nightmare in a cramped apartment, so why not ditch them and upgrade to the latest in wireless audio? The Vers Audio Bluetooth Sound System ($200, Amazon) can be a great way to leave behind the bulky sub-woofers while still enjoying premium sound. Measuring just 3 x 6 x 3 inches, this 12 ounce sonic blast from the future can be connected to any Bluetooth compatible device to pump rich, quality sound throughout the apartment – just don't disturb the neighbours too much. For those who like to coordinate, the exterior comes in three wood flavours – Bamboo, Natural Beech and Walnut.
LG 42” LED
HDTV
Cramming a huge television into a tiny apartment is counter-intuitive: rather than wasting that money, consider purchasing a more reasonably sized powerhouse like the LG 42LS3400 LED HDTV. For less than $500, you can pick up this beauty, which displays any and all programming in crisp, 1080p resolution. Using about 30% less energy than a traditional HDTV, this Energy Star appliance will not only help keep your utility bills low, but will also be the centre of your multimedia experience around the apartment. With HDMI and USB ports included, you'll have no problem streaming movies and videos from your laptop or tablet directly to the LG TV.
PlayStation 3
While not everyone enjoys gaming, the average apartment dweller is a young professional who appreciates after-hours relaxation at home. What better way to do so than through a video game console like the PlayStation 3? The 250 GB family entertainment bundle ($249) comes with two very popular titles: Ratchet and Clank & PlayStation All-Stars, making game time with friends a (friendly) blood sport. Best of all, the PlayStation 3 can serve as a multimedia station. If you go by our recommendation and get both this and the Vers Audio system mentioned above, you'll be able to connect the two to enjoy premium sound and premium gaming.
Brother
Compact Laser Printer
Printers have long been known for their heft and bulkiness, but vast improvements in both printing and design have allowed concepts like the Brother HL-2270DW to make significant strides in eliminating these concerns. Priced at just $95, the Brother laser printer can use both wireless and Ethernet interfaces to print up to 27 pages per minute, and holds 250 sheets of paper. Measuring just 12 x 14 inches, situating the printer in a small apartment is no longer a cumbersome hassle, but merely an afterthought.
Author Bio:
This
post was written by Jenny Wadlow; she likes to blog about a variety of things
that interest her. One of her recent articles was about new apartments in Windsor. Her hobbies are reading and cooking. You can follow
her on Twitter @JennyWadlow.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013 0
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