Handy Tool Guide

CNET have reviewed the Pandigital 8.0-inch Digital Photo Frame which allows you to transfer your photos directly from your digital camera, memory card or USB drive to the 64MB onboard storage. 'Similar to the Philips Digital Photo Display 7FF, the acrylic version of the Pandigital frame looks a lot like a mini version of the display on Apple's original iMac flat-panel all-in-one computer, with a clear frame around a silver border that surrounds the 6.45x4.9-inch (8-inch diagonal) LCD panel. If that modernist look doesn't suit you, you can swap in a more traditionally styled black wooden frame, though it takes more effort than it should (we had trouble getting the acrylic frame off). The flip-out stand on the back allows you to prop the frame up horizontally--but not vertically--and there's a keyhole slot at the top that gives you the option of mounting the frame on a wall with a single screw or picture hook (not included).'

Read: Pandigital 8.0-inch Digital Photo Frame - CNET

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Bosch Power Tools has introduced a new line of screwguns which are targeted at drywall and framing applications. 'Each new Bosch screwgun is a full one-inch shorter and lighter weight than the industry's leading competitor. Bosch engineers specially focused on the contoured ergonomic grip area, unique trigger design and extended finger grip. Combined, the Bosch screwgun line minimizes fatigue and provides the ultimate in balance, comfort and control for driving screws all day, every day. The unique Posi-Lock depth-retention nose-piece is already an industry stand out, as drywallers no longer need to worry about removing the nose piece and losing their depth settings. The unique design utilizes a special detent system to retain depth settings whether on or off the tool and eliminates annoying time consuming readjustments every time the nose-piece is removed. One-handed removal also makes the various framing tasks drywallers need to accomplish throughout the day quicker and easier.'

Read: Screwguns target drywall and framing applications. Thomas Net

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A "Hands-on" review of the PanaVise 376 Extra Wide Opening Head "mated with a 305 low-profile base" has been posted on Toolmonger. 'The original PanaVise set a new standard for “work holding devices.” It’s leaps and bounds more versatile than the common bench vise. What separates it from the rest is its split-ball mechanism, which allows the head to tilt 180 degrees from vertical, turn 360 degrees on its axis, and rotate 360 degrees within the mount — all with the release of a single knob.'

Read: Hands-On: PanaVise’s Extra-Wide-Opening Head - Toolmonger

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The Navman N60i portable GPS device.has been reviewed over at PC Magazine. 'The first thing that you'll notice about the N60i is that whereas it's approximately the same size as the iCN 750, (3.3 by 5.5 by 0.91 inches), the N60i is a quarter-inch thinner and has a larger, 4.3-inch screen. The bigger display also has a better, antiglare surface. The N60i weighs in at 8.5 ounces, 2.1 ounces lighter than the iCN 750. The reduced weight and thickness is most likely due to the device's use of solid-state memory as compared with the 4GB hard drive used by the iCN 750. The N60i stores all of its map and POI data in 2GB of onboard flash memory. Built-in maps cover North America (the United States and Canada), Alaska, Hawaii, and interestingly, Puerto Rico, which is listed under States. And, as you would expect, battery life has improved, currently rated at up to 5 hours (depending on use).'

Read: Navman N60i - PC Mag

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A review of the the T Handle Ball End Hex Key Allen Wrench Set from Sears Craftsman has been posted over at Web Bike World. 'The little red box is filled with just about every type of Allen wrench you can imagine, in every size and length available, from custom-made Dremel cut-offs to gossamer-like 0.7mm and 5/64 whiskers that will bend if you stare at them too long. Also stuffed in there are the huge 22mm and 1" monsters that are suitable for defending the garage in case alien invaders come looking for a spare Bing carburetor. So what's the difference is between an Allen wrench and a hex key? Not much really. I did a little research and discovered that the generic term for this type of tool is "hex key" and the term "Allen wrench" is actually taken from a trademarked name for the tool manufactured by the Allen Manufacturing Company in Hartford, Connecticut during WWII. So the Allen wrench name has become a generic term, much like "Band Aid" or "Kleenex".'

Read: "T" Handle Allen Wrench Set - Web Bike World

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The Egg Poaching Toaster available from Hammacher Schlemmer is one neat looking toaster oven. If you are not particularly interested in the consumption of eggs you may not be inclined to purchase this appliance. However, if you prefer your eggs scrambled, fried sunny-side-up, hard or soft-boiled, this combination cooker maybe the one for you. 'This countertop device makes a complete breakfast sandwich in just four minutes by preparing all the ingredients at once, 60% faster than cooking everything separately. The wide-mouth unit perfectly toasts two slices of bread, an English muffin, a bagel, or a croissant, while simultaneously poaching or steam-scrambling an egg.' The Egg Poaching Toaster costs $50.

Hammacher Schlemmer The Egg Poaching Toaster Via: Coolest Gadgets

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FCI/Burndy Products has introduced the new Burndy Patriot PAT644XT battery-actuated hydraulic crimping tool which offers one-handed operation for advance, retract, and hold. 'Offering trouble-free tool operation, the PAT644XT-18V incorporates the latest engineering technology with a patented high-speed hydraulic pump, transmission and piston design. The battery actuated hydraulic tool provides a consistent, reliable connection with copper or aluminum terminals and splices. Its 2.6 AH high-capacity 18V Ni-MH battery eliminates voltage depression, maximizing the number of crimps per charge. With its state-of-the-art crimping head design boasting 360° head rotation, the tool head can operate in virtually any position. The PAT644XT-18V has 11-tons of output force, an audible "pop-off" crimp indicator, and an ergonomically balanced design to lessen fatigue. The die-less crimper incorporates a fixed nest and indentor which means you never have to worry about losing dies. The PAT644XT-18V is supplied with a durable high impact formed carrying case, battery charger, two batteries and tool retention lanyard.'

Read: Battery Actuated Crimping Tool is hydraulically operated. Thomas Net

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The Scotty Pro is a solar charger which has a pair of built-in rechargeable AA batteries which can power several small gadgets including your cell phone, game console, digital camera, MP3 player or any other USB powered device. The charger takes approximately seven hours of sunlight for a full recharge but you can dispense with the solar option and stick two standard AA batteries in the device to power up your gadgets. The Scotty comes with various adaptors which allow the seamless transfer of the charge to the gadget of your choice. The Scotty Pro Solar Charger is available from I Want One Of Those for £49.95.

Scotty Pro Solar Charger Via: Tech Digest

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If your financial situation do not allow for the purchase of a complete set of screwdrivers, the Flexible Shaft Ratcheting Screwdriver may just suffice as a workable alternative. Labeled as a "versatile 23-in-1 flexible driver tool" the Flexible Shaft Ratcheting Screwdriver has a 6" (152mm) extendible flexible shaft that is supposed to allow you to drive screws, nuts and bolts at almost any angle. 'This screwdriver has a ratchet mechanism with three working positions; forward, reverse and locked. It also comes complete with 15 bits, including a socket adaptor and five 1/4” driver sockets. The handle provides storage for 6 bits and 5 sockets and the bit holder on the shaft allows for the storage of another 8 bits. The Flexible Shaft Ratcheting Screwdriver has a standard 1/4” (6.35mm) magnetized hex opening to hold all standard driver bits and also has a retractable magnet built in to allow it to act as a magnetic pick-up tool.' The Flexible Shaft Ratcheting Screwdriver is available from ThinkGeek for $19.99.

source: ThinkGeek

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The NASCAR designed Track Vac Robotic Vacuum maybe "part vacuum and part toy" but this gizmo will have to deliver on the house cleaning if it is to satisfy the $280 investment required of eager fans.

Features:
• Radio frequency remote control provides accurate steering capability.
• Automatically cleans using 5 pre-programmed vacuuming patterns.
• Low-profile design cleans where traditional vacuums just can’t reach.
• Convenient remote storage inside the charge base.
• Interactive audio on start-up and power drain sounds just like a NASCAR event.
• NASCAR theme “Pit Road” charging station provides quick battery charges.
• Large dust bin capacity.
• A real conversation piece, you’ll want to leave it out even after you’ve finished cleaning.
• “RACE” mode lets the fun continue long after the vacuuming is done.Radio frequency

Track Vac Robotic Vacuum Via: Gizmodo

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Checking the oil in the oil pan under the hood of your vehicle may seem simple enough but the significance of this exercise to overall engine care is explained in a simple instruction by the folks over at Jalopnik.com. 'Hot or cold is where the argument starts. The check-when-cold crew maintains since all the oil is in the pan when the engine is cold, the dipstick will give the most accurate reading. The check-when-hot crowd counters that since oil expands when hot, the best time to check the oil is when the engine is warm. As people truly seem to love arguing about oil the argument will certainly not stop here. Both arguments are valid as long as the first two rules are followed. If your driveway is flat then check your oil in the cold morning air. If you have to chock your wheels against the curb of a steep slope when parking at night, then check your oil at the gas station when the engine is warm and on a flat surface. Checking the oil level every other fill-up is a good schedule to follow.'

Read: And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Parts: Check the Oil - Jalopnik

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A review of Panasonic's WiFi Skype phone which is not yet available for purchase has been posted over at Phicons.com. 'The screen side of the phone is a simple silver finish, not quite the luster of the Nokia next to it in the photo above but fine all the same. The backside where the battery sits is rubberized plastic for a firm, cool grip in the hand. The weight is just right even after a half hour call your arm won’t ache. It’s traveled with me on business trips all over Europe and still looks as good as new. It has a loud and clear speakerphone accessible with its own dedicated button next to the dedicated contacts button, very user friendly!'

Read: Phicons gets friendly with Panasonic’s wifi Skype phone

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The Portable Power Extender which is available from Hammacher Schlemmer for $130.00 would be a useful adapter for any home based business owner or other professional for whom the necessity to be connected simply cannot be compromised. 'When no DC power is available, this lightweight device will continue to power laptops for up to two hours, portable gaming systems for 12 hours, and an MP3 player for up to 72 hours. Smaller than a paperback novel, it serves as a supplementary power supply for portable electronics by inverting 12-volt DC from a vehicle battery or airline seat to 120-volt AC, the same kind of power used in home power outlets, but, unlike typical adapters that only provide power as long as they are plugged into a cars cigarette lighter, this one has a built-in lithium battery pack that provides additional power for your devices, even while unplugged.'

Source: Hammacher Schlemmer Via: Uber-Review

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Flexity LLC, the company behind the innovative PowerSquid surge protectors, announced the launch of three new models at the recently concluded 2007 Consumer Electronics Show (CES): the MSQ, the MSQ-PRO, and the Surge1000. 'The two MSQ models were specifically developed with musicians and audio engineers in mind, featuring a sleek black color-scheme, extra-long power cords and Purestream™ power filtering to improve sound quality. The Surge1000 rounds out the existing PC and Home Theater model range, with 1080 joules, 5 power tentacles, 40 dB Purestream power filtering, coaxial and phone-line protection, and a price point of $54.95. The Flexity PowerSquid Surge Protector is the next step in the evolution of the power strip, featuring outlets situated at the end of short, flexible arms that easily accommodate bulky transformer plugs without wasting outlets. They are easier to plug and unplug than traditional power strips, have greater reach and flexibility, and a striking cephalopod inspired design. The PowerSquid family of products is manufactured by Power Sentry, a Philips company. The Flexity PowerSquid Surge Protector models are high-end, premium configured products intended for specialty and niche markets.'

Read: Press Release Via: Engadget

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A review of the new Skil iXO2 cordless palm size screwdriver has been posted over at Tolmonger. 'While at first glance Skil’s new iXO2 — the second-generation of Skil’s entry into the low-cost li-ion cordless screwdriver market, the iXO — doesn’t look that much different from its predecessor. But, after a little hands-on time around the Toolmonger shop, we’ve come to notice some significant improvements. Let’s start, however, with things that remain the same: The iXO2 is a li-ion-powered, 3.6-volt driver that fits in the palm of your hand. Like other small household drivers, the iXO2 isn’t designed for heavy lifting but instead for more day-to-day tasks. And, at less than $40 street, it doesn’t cost heavy, either.'

Read: Hands-On: Skil iXO2 Lithium-Ion Driver - Toolmonger

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PC Magazine have posted their review of the Vonage V-Phone which is basically an easy-to-use softphone on a USB thumbdrive. 'With the Vonage V-Phone and a subscription to Vonage service, you can make calls from any broadband Internet-connected PC that has an available USB port, whether you're in an airport, a hotel, an Internet café, at school, the library, or a public kiosk—even a busy trade-show floor (that's where I first used the phone). Though this highly portable, bright orange USB thumbdrive doesn't look like a phone, it has an automated softphone on board and supports one Vonage phone line. I was initially quite skeptical, but the phone is surprisingly simple to set up and works quite well. This phone alone wouldn't be enough to persuade me to sign up for Vonage service (I've already got AT&T CallVantage), but I'd say that the V-Phone is a must-have item for those who already have the service—and especially for those who also travel a lot or who have kids away at school. For this group it just makes perfect sense, since it lets you easily pack up your phone service and take it with you on the road.'

Read: Vonage V-Phone - PC Mag

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Your trash can should be kept clean at all times in your quest to ensure a safe environment for yourself and your family. However, if you experience challenges in maintaining the cleanliness of your waste receptacle, the Touchless Trashcan from iTouchless may well prove the safeguard in preventing the transmission of harmful bacteria to human hands. 'The Touchless Trashcan uses patented invisible harmless infrared technology. Place hand or debris about 6 inches away from the infrared sensor near the lid. It will open instantly when you approach and will close automatically in 3-second after debris has been released and hand moves away. Lid will remain open if debris or hand is within 6 inches range of the infrared sensor. There are 2 buttons on the front to open and close the lid manually and an on/off switch on the back of the trashcan.' The Touchless Trashcan is priced at $229.95.

iTouchless Trashcan Via: Shiny Media

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Ideal Industries has introduced the Velocity(TM) ultra-low friction cable pulling lubricant which "helps contractors achieve the fastest possible pulls in electrical, telecommunications and data applications". 'Utilizing the technical information gained over the years with the company's successful ClearGlide® lubricants, IDEAL engineered Velocity to provide one of the industry's highest "clingability" factors to yield the longest lasting, most uniform coating on all types of cable jacket materials. In independent testing, Velocity exhibited a coefficient of dynamic friction that was 25% lower than competitive lubricants, resulting in drastically increased lubricity for easier pulling with less effort. Contractors will appreciate this tension reduction, especially during long pulls, multiple-bend pulls or pulls in extreme environments (25° F to 140° F).'

Read: Cable Pulling Lubricant accelerates cable installation. Thomas Net

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Taylor Tools has introduced a new Carpet Cricket knife which "offers one-handed Quick Flip blade change technology as well as gap-free tip, which completely supports blade and high-traction swivel surface for smooth operation". 'The blade holder is made of tough plastic to protect the edges of stored blades and also features a textured grip and a cut-out for fast, easy blade removal.'

Read: Carpet Knife offers quick blade changeouts. Thomas Net

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The folks over at Jalopnik have posted a useful tutorial on the repair (replacement) of the lift supports in the hood of your car. 'Lift support replacement is a relatively simple task but can also be potentially dangerous. The utmost caution should be taken anytime a gaping maw of steel and glass lay in wait to take a bite out of you like an automotive Venus Flytrap. This is one case where two heads really are better than one, and four hands will prevent any unwelcome concussions. Do not use any makeshift device to hold up hood or hatchback while replacing lift supports. It will inevitably fail and result in pinched fingers or head clobbering.'

Read: And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Parts: Lift Support - Jalopnik

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Metabo has introduced a new electronic 6" WE14-150 angle grinder which is equipped with quick wheel change system for tool-less wheel changes, safety clutch, Vibratech anti-vibration handle, overload protection, and electronic winding temperature monitor with LED and auto-stop carbon brushes. 'With TC electronics, the WE14-150 grinder can work at nearly 100 percent of the no-load speed (9,000 RPM) right up to the grinder's full rated amp load (12 amps). This allows those using the grinder to be 25 to 35 percent more productive, cutting through various metals more quickly than when using a tool without these electronic features. Those using this tool for cutting applications range from welders, sprinkler fitters and pipe fitters, to mechanical contractors and others involved in metal fabrication.'

Read: Angle Grinder includes electronic speed stabilization. - Thomas Net

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The JacPac CO2 power system hooks onto your belt and lets you operate your pneumatic tools without the hassle of "connecting to bulky air compressors or tangling up in long air hoses and extension cords". The compressed CO2 used in the JacPac cylinder is actually a liquid which converts to a gas when released. The primary advantage of pneumatic power over battery-power is that the latter begins to weaken as the charge decreases, however, a CO2 system will give full power right to the last shot.

Features:
• Universal adaptor fits standard pneumatic hand tools — one power source & one fitting for all!
• Compact design — the entire pneumatic power system fits in a mid-sized tool box
• Lightweight — entire pneumatic power system hooks onto your belt and weighs 5 lbs
• Environment friendly — No exhaust fumes, no battery packs
• Noise free — no compressor means virtually no noise - you can start work earlier and work later without disturbing neighbors
• Refillable — fires up to 500 nails on a single charge
• Reusable cylinders — cylinder life span is 5 years

JacPac CO2 Power System@Supplierpipeline Via: Uber Review

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Tech Digest have reviewed the portable Mio C710 GPS navigation system. 'The main strength of the C710 is its sleek compact design, which looks very much the part for a top-end piece of technology and will fit easily into any pocket or bag. The hard plastic chassis feels surprisingly sturdy and the four rubberised buttons on the side feel very well built too. The touchscreen has also been designed well enough to let you perform some reasonably precise controls with your finger tip and not making you wish for a stylus. Basic operation of the device is a pleasure; the map movements as you travel along are extremely quick and smooth. The screen is sharp enough to read the names of passing roads and spot symbols for things like speed cameras very easily. The only real problem is that Mio has forced a lot of other symbols (zoom, angle, direction, satellites, battery level and Bluetooth) onto the map screen as well which can leave you feeling a bit cluttered.'

Read: Mio C710 GPS Navigation System - Tech Digest

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The Micro-Plus 8-in-1 Multi-tool is a miniature gadget which when folded can be attached to a keyring to be available for use should the need arise. There are eight tools combined in the Multi-tool albeit in micro form which some folk may initially experience some challenges in getting used to. However, it is not always appropriate or necessary to travel with your regular tool kit and there are certainly occasions when this little device would far better serve the purpose for attending to minor problems than regular tools. The Micro-Plus 8-in-1 Multi-tool is priced at $9.99.

Features:
• Precision Pliers with Posi-Grip Jaws
• Phillips Screwdriver
• Flat Screwdriver
• Micro Phillips Screwdriver
• Micro Flat Screwdriver
• Wire cutter
• Wire stripper
• Sheet Shear

Micro-Plus 8-in-1 Multi-tool@ThinkGeek

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