Handy Tool Guide

CNET have published a review of the Callpod Chargepod which is a 6-way charging device that allows you to charge multiple cell phones, PDAs, headsets, and most other mobile electronics with a single power cord. ‘The central component of the Chargepod is a compact (2.7 inches tall by 2.7 inches wide by 2.7 inches deep; 1.12 ounces) silver disc with seven outlets on the outer edge. One is a mini-USB port that's used to connect an AC or car adapter to deliver the power, while the remaining six are used for the device adapters. Setup couldn't be easier. Just plug in the various adapters and you're all set. Tiny blue lights above each used port show that they're active. The AC and car adapters are sufficiently long, while the device adapters range in length from 3 to 5 inches. While that might sound too short, the Chargepod's circular design means the device adapters fan out with enough room to plug in the full component of six gadgets. With that feature alone, the Chargepod beats your standard power strip hands down. By eliminating the often clunky power cords that come with many cell phones, handhelds, MP3 players, and portable gaming systems, you won't have to struggle to make everything fit.’

Read: Callpod Chargepod - CNET

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Nexergy has introduced the NC Series of battery chargers which are designed specifically for Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. 'Offered in 12 or 24 W versions with output current of up to 3 A, NC Series is customized with firmware, aligning charge current and voltage to match specific charging needs of battery pack. High voltage allows chargers to accommodate batteries with up to 6 NiMH cells in series. Built-in safety precautions for overcharge protection include prequalification of battery condition, trickle charge to limit charge current if cell voltage/temperature is low, and regulated charge current.'

Read: New Battery Charger Provides Safe and Optimal Charging of Nickel Metal Hydride Battery Cells

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Pocket-Lint have published a review of a pair of Burton Gore-Tex authentic denim jeans and Jacket outerwear. 'Jeans are great aren’t they? Staple of your wardrobe, but they carry one major flaw; get them wet and they are a bugger to deal with. So what's the solution? Waterproof them with Gore-Tex of course. That's exactly what Burton, the snowboarding firm, has done. But is it the idea of the century or something that will find itself in the charity shop? We get wet to find out. Designed for boarders who want to wear jeans on the slopes, judging from the reaction from most people, they are going to be the must have piece of kit next season.'

Read: Burton Gore-Tex authentic denim jeans and Jacket Review - Pocket-Lint

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The U-RES-Q is a small lightweight pouch permanently attached to the working end of the lanyard which helps alleviate suspension trauma caused by fall and allows capable worker to climb back to anchor point. 'The U-RES-Q is available as an option to many FrenchCreek shock absorbing lanyards. A standard shock absorbing lanyard may save you in the event of a fall, but remaining suspended after the fall is another problem all together. It is common knowledge in the fall protection industry that every minute in suspension, after a fall, is extremely crucial! If even the slightest of falls should happen to occur, the light-weight U-RES-Q pouch releases into rescue mode by automatically ejecting a high strength, 16' synthetic rescue ladder! At that point the worker can attempt to climb back to the anchor point, or simply stand on the ladder to relieve pressure, increase blood flow, and ensure enough time for emergency response. The U-RES-Q is the most reliable, most secure product in alleviating Suspension Trauma. It is an option you can't afford to be without!'

Read: FrenchCreek Productions U-RES-Q Alleviates Suspension Trauma and More! - Thomas Net

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CNET have published a review of the Contour Cargo Notebook Messenger Case. 'Designed for 15.4-inch laptops, the case is a bit on the large size, measuring 16.5 inches wide by 14 inches high by 5.5 inches deep. The main compartment is divided in two by a lightly padded pocket with a Velcro strap meant for holding your laptop in place. The nonpadded section of the main compartment has plenty of room for power supplies, papers, and accessories. A mesh pocket built into the front face of the bag is great for holding MP3 players, cell phones, and anything else that's slightly bulky. The bag's outer flap covers both of these compartments, and includes its own zippered pocket with tiny pouches sewn into it for pens, memory cards, and other small items. The rear face of the bag, which would be held against your body, has a stiff but padded panel, which Kensington calls a "contour panel," for added protection. Carrying this bag around for several days, we liked how easy it was to access the outer flap pocket, and how useful the mesh pocket inside was for holding larger items that might not fit well into other bags.'

Read: Kensington Contour Cargo Messenger - CNET

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Press Release

LINCOLNSHIRE, ILL. – June 2007 – Klein Tools has added the new Journeyman J2000-9NECRTP side-cutting pliers with multiple design features to the JourneymanTM line, which already includes pliers, cutters and other hand tools.

The new J2000-9NECRTP pliers include a built-in crimper for use on non-insulated connectors, lugs and terminals, and a built-in channel that pulls steel fish tape without damaging the tape. These multi-tasking pliers, with heavy duty cutting knives, cut ACSR, screws, nails and most hardened wire.

As the latest addition to the innovative, high-quality Journeyman line, the new side-cutting pliers feature contoured, cushioned handles. The handles are made using a state-of-the-art, dual material molding process that allows for a softer, more comfortable firm grip on the outer surface.

The inner surface and handle ends have a harder, more durable grip, providing toughness and durability. The Journeyman line features hot-riveted joints for smooth action, induction-hardened cutting knives for long life and custom, U.S.-made tool steel.

The Journeyman line carries a lifetime warranty. “These new Journeyman pliers represent the best of Klein quality and workmanship by providing an all-in-one, convenient hand tool for today’s busy contractor,” said Chris Niklas product manager, Klein Tool.

This year marks Klein Tools’ 150th anniversary. In 1857, Klein Tools’ founder and blacksmith Mathias Klein forged the first known U.S. made pliers in Chicago. Since then, Klein Tools has grown to be a leading manufacturer of a variety of hand tools and occupational protective equipment. For more information on Klein Tools Journeyman pliers please contact: Klein Tools, P.O. Box 1418, Lincolnshire, IL 60069-1418. Phone: (800) 553-4676. Fax: (847) 478-0625. E-mail: marketing@kleintools.com. www.kleintools.com.

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Laptop Magazine have published a review of the Hookup Lanyard which is a “made for iPod” accessory that gives you the freedom to work and play seamlessly. ‘If you like to listen to your iPod while walking, you'll know this scenario all too well: You're walking down the street with your earbuds in, and you never hear or feel your phone ringing and therefore miss calls you had wanted to take. Lenntek hopes to change that with its Hookup Lanyard. Cleanly designed and easy to attach, the device plugs into your iPod nano's dock connector and automatically interrupts the music with your incoming or outgoing calls from a Bluetooth-equipped cell phone.’

Read: The Hookup Lanyard – Laptop Magazine

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Press Release

LINCOLNSHIRE, ILL. – May 2007 – Klein Tools recently introduced the following four new hand cleaners to its line of hand cleaners: Heavy-Duty Pumice Lotion (Cat. No. 51431), Orange Pumice Lotion (Cat. No. 51432) and Smooth Orange Lotion (Cat. No. 52433), which are available in 15-ounce bottles. The Orange Pumice Lotion is also available in a gallon container (Cat. No. 51434).

The new hand cleaners contain premium-grade cleaning agents that effectively dissolve grease, paints, inks and hard-to-remove soils. They are fortified with skin conditioners, and may be used with or without water. All of the hand cleaners contain glycerin, aloe vera, jojoba, wheat germ oil and vitamin E. The Heavy-Duty Pumice Lotion also contains lanolin.

“Klein Tools’ new hand cleaners are now available in bigger-sized containers and have more soothing agents to leave hands moisturized and conditioned,” said Abby Ceppos, senior marketing manager, Klein Tools.

Klein hand cleaners are designed to meet the needs of all tradesmen and DIYers, and are used for cleaning up on the jobsite, where water might not be readily available.

This year marks Klein Tools’ 150th anniversary. In 1857, Klein Tools’ founder and blacksmith Mathias Klein forged the first-known U.S.-made pliers in Chicago. Since then, Klein Tools has grown to be the leading manufacturer of a variety of hand tools and occupational protective equipment. For more information on Klein Tools’ new hand cleaners, please contact: Klein Tools, P.O. Box 1418, Lincolnshire, IL 60069-1418. Phone: (800) 553-4676. Fax: (847) 478-0625. E-mail: marketing@kleintools.com. www.kleintools.com.

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A review of the Scythe Andy Samurai Master 6 Heatpipe CPU Cooler has been posted over at PC Perspective. 'The Scythe Andy Samurai Master is a large, down draft style CPU cooler that incorporates 6 heat pipes and comes bundled with a 120mm low speed fan that is very quiet. The Andy Samurai Master (ASM) includes tool-less mounting hardware that supports the majority of Intel and AMD platforms. Scythe had very good success with their previous Infinity and Ninja CPU coolers, which are both large tower-style coolers that use horizontal airflow. The ASM is designed for users who want a down draft (vertical airflow) cooler that can keep their CPU cool along with helping to cool other components on the motherboard in the CPU socket area.'

Read: Scythe Andy Samurai Master 6 Heatpipe CPU Cooler Review - PC Perspective

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The new American Beauty Model 3178 300-Watt Soldering Iron provides a 1,000°F maximum tip temperature and is suited for running seams with 24-26 gauge sheet metal, copper down spouts, and flashings. 'Equipped with a hard-wood handle for a sure grip and a heat shield for safety, the American Beauty Model 3178 300-Watt Soldering Iron eliminates propane, natural gas, and stays hot without open flames. Measuring 14-3/8"L overall, it has a 5-5/32" L tip x 7/8" dia. shank, weighs just 37 oz. and comes with a standard chisel style Paragon® soldering tip; diamond style is optional.'

Read: 300 Watt Soldering Iron Consistent Heat Assures Even Solder Flow - Thomas Net

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The new GC25 3” cutoff tool from Ingersoll Rand is suited for light duty cutting jobs including muffler work, bolt cutting, exhaust, and sheet metal work. 'The GC25 is also easy to use. With a variable speed trigger and adjustable guard, the tool delivers excellent control and ease-of-access in tight work areas. Like all IQV Series tools, the GC25 is complemented by the world's best cordless tool battery technology. All IQV Series batteries feature onboard battery electronics that allow operators to choose between lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium batteries and charge either chemistry with the same charger. The IQV charger is compatible with all IQV batteries, regardless of chemistry or voltage. Constructed with superior cell technologies, all IQV batteries offer best-in-class recharge life in addition to the patent-pending IQV Grip interface. The innovative twist-to-lock design outperforms conventional batteries in durability and convenience by preventing normal wear and tear to mounts and clips.'

Read: Cordless Cut-Off Tool features 0.35 hp motor. - Thomas Net

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CNET have published a review of the compact Magellan Maestro 3100 portable navigation system. 'The Magellan Maestro 3100 is basically a scaled-down version of its bigger brother, the Maestro 4040. The unit measures a compact 4.2 inches long by 1.1 inches wide by 3.4 inches high and weighs 6.5 ounces, so you can easily move it between cars. However, the smaller size also means that you don't get the luxury of the larger 4.3-inch display like the Maestro 4040. Instead, the 3100 is equipped with a responsive 3.5-inch diagonal touch screen. While maps were readable, we thought the color was a bit washed out and wished there was a little more contrast. Lowering the screen's brightness helped slightly, but it wasn't quite up to par with some other systems we've seen.'

Read: Magellan Maestro 3100 - CNET

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The “trowel-like “ 7-in-1 Planter's Buddy (pictured above) is one the several new gardening products reviewed over at The San Jose Mercury News. ‘You'll probably find way more than seven ways to use this slick new stainless steel tool (and the fact that it could double as a weapon of self-defense isn't even one of them). The serrated edge of the six-inch blade makes quick work of opening balky bags of soil and mulch. The blade tip reaches hard-to-get weed roots. The straight edge cuts sod and a sharpened notch nips twine. The blade is embossed with measurement markings for planting depth (one to six inches), and it's a guide for plant spacing (the tool is exactly one foot long). The plastic handle has a flat end that can be used to whomp in stakes or fertilizer spikes. And this baby makes quick work of planting bulbs and seedlings.’

Read: Stuff we dig: 10 cool new products for gardeners - San Jose Mercury News

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A review of the Sony DPP-FP90 digital photo printer has been posted over at Computeractive. 'Sony’s FP90 is the latest in a range of dedicated photo printers designed to give photographers the convenience of professional level printing from the comfort of their home. You’ll find a wide range of connectivity here that caters for almost every possible form of storage, including USB, Pictbridge compatibility, Compactflash, SD and Memorystick Pro slots. You can also connect the printer direct to your PC and use Sony’s Picture Motion Browser software to both catalogue and print photos. Attaching a compatible device loads the collection stored on it, which can then be viewed and edited on the impressive 3.6in display.'

Read: Review: Sony DPP-FP90 photo printer - Computeractive

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Ingersoll Rand has expanded its line of IQV(TM) Series cordless tools to include the D040 1/4" mini drill which weighs less than 2.5 pounds and is less than 7 inches long. The D040 features an industrial-grade 1/4" keyed chuck and is optimized for drilling applications in sheet metal and other tough materials. "The new D040's unique combination of small size and fast speed makes it ideal for tight access metal drilling applications," said Christian Corrigan, Ingersoll Rand global marketing manager for cordless tools. "Unlike most competitive tools which are generally bigger, slower and more screwdriver than drill, the D040 was clearly designed to stand out for small-hole drilling."

Read: Mini Cordless Drill weighs less than 2.5 lb. - Thomas Net

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Press Release

NORCROSS, GA., May 31, 2007 -
Hitachi Power Tools today announced its new 7-1/4” pro-grade circular saw featuring patented Internal Double Insulation (IDI) technology, the C7BMR. Designed with a powerful 15 Amp motor and electric brake for safety, it cuts quickly and smoothly through OSB, 2x4’s, LVL, plywood and other typical framing materials. The C7BMR was built to withstand the tough conditions of a jobsite. IDI technology built into the tool housing reduces vibration and wear, extending tool life over 200%. It is the most durable circular saw on the market; ideal for professionals who demand a workhorse of a tool at a competitive value.

The hefty motor (1,710 Watt Output) produces a no-load speed of 5,800 RPM for greater cutting efficiency through the toughest materials. Hitachi’s patented IDI technology incorporated in the C7BMR enables the aluminum housing to be intertwined with an injection molded inner nylon core. This technology combines the durability of an all metal body tool with the double insulation advantages of today’s tools with plastic housings. Because of this revolutionary technology, the tool bearing sits in die cast aluminum instead of plastic. This improves tool reliability and greatly extends tool life.

The C7BMR features an electric brake that stops the rotation of the blade within seconds preventing unintended cuts. Its cutting and bevel levers, made of die-cast aluminum alloy for durability, are well placed and move smoothly during adjustments. The bevel capacity on this circular saw ranges from 0-55 degrees with a positive stop at 45 degrees. The extra cut capacity to 55 degrees is ideal for framing and cutting compound miter angles offering more flexibility with on the job applications. The heavy-duty aluminum base offers easy to read front and side scales for accurate measurements. An easily accessible carbon brush allows for quick and easy brush changes for user friendly maintenance.

Lightweight at only 10.5 lbs, the C7BMR is easy to maneuver and reduces end user fatigue. Its soft grip main and sub handles are ergonomically designed to increase grip and be comfortable to use all day. The AC/DC switch is operable on any power supply such as a generator for optimal convenience in any jobsite condition. It comes complete with a box wrench and 24-tooth carbide tipped blade. This pro-grade circular saw retails for around $130 and can be found in Lowe’s and other Independent Channel distribution.

Hitachi North America

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PC Magazine have reviewed the Mio DigiWalker C520 portable navigation and entertainment device which features a 4.3" widescreen display, split-screen interface, Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in media player. ‘Powered by the latest SiRFstar III 20-channel WAAS-enabled receiver, the C520's most notable feature is its 16-bit touch-sensitive WQVGA display (480 by 272 pixels). The GPS antenna is built in—there's no "patch" antenna like those on the Garmin nüvis. Running on top of Windows CE, the device has 2GB of onboard flash memory and 64MB of SDRAM. Like Mio's other GPS products, the C520 uses TeleAtlas maps. Inside, you'll find maps for all 50 states plus Canada and Puerto Rico, along with an impressive 6 million POI (points of interest) database. Measuring 5.0 by 3.2 by 0.8 inches and weighing 6.7 ounces, the C520 still qualifies as a shirt-pocket GPS.’

Read: Mio DigiWalker C520 – PC Mag

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CNET have published a review of the Pantone Huey PRO ( Windows/Macintosh ) monitor calibration solution designed for calibrating and profiling all types of monitors – LCD and CRT. ‘Huey comes in two versions: regular old Pantone Huey and Huey Pro. The hardware--a sticklike colorimeter--is identical for both. The $25 or so difference buys you a software upgrade that enables support for multiple monitors, user-selectable reference white point and gamma, and a better help system.

For the confused and/or uninitiated, Huey Pro--or any other calibrator system, for that matter--can't perform magic. It doesn't make prints match your monitor. That requires color-management software, which connects the profiles of the various calibrated devices in your system. Windows and OS X serve that function to a large extent these days, and if you're a prospective Huey user, that's probably what you're using.’

Read: Review: Pantone Huey Pro - CNET

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A review of the Thermaltake Toughpower 1,200W PSU (W0133RU) power supply has been posted over at PC Perspective. ‘Thermaltake has six new power supplies in their Toughpower Specialty Series with Cable Management, which range in output capacity from 650 to 1,200 watts! These new models all feature a large 140mm cooling fan, high efficiency, active PFC, quiet operation, and ATX12V 2.2 compliance. In addition, the power supplies come with sleeved, modular cables and include a silicone rubber mounting pad to help reduce vibration noise. We will be taking a detailed look at the Thermaltake Toughpower 1,200W PSU (W0133RU) in this review.’

Read: Thermaltake Toughpower 1200W Power Supply Review - PC Perspective

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Xuron Corporation has introduced a Suite of Aviation Tools suited for avionics, harness making, and repair applications. 'Xuron's Suite of Aviation Tools are designed for precise jobs and include the Model 2175 Flush Cutter for cotter keys and safety wire; Model 9200 Micro-Shear® with a tapered head for tight spaces; the Model 450 needle nose pliers; Model 450BN bent nose pliers with an improved head angle for better vision when positioning small components; and the Model 505ST adjustable stripper for stranded wire down to 26 gauge without nicked wire strands.'

Read: Aviation Tools are designed for precise wiring jobs. - Thomas Net

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A review of an UrbanTool hipHolster has been published over at Pocketnow.com. 'With a total of five front pockets and a pen slot, the hipHolster provides plenty of space for whatever you would like to pack around. The velcro strap is a great idea, and easily secures any cables (such as headphones) to the holster. Hiding inside the corner pocket is a removable Keyjojo (meaning an extendable key ring). Simply attach your keys to the ring, slide them up and then pull the bottom over and your keys are secured. I have a large set of keys and I must say that I barely noticed them once they were pocketed here.'

Read: Hip Hugger - Pocketnow.com

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Pocket-Lint have published a review of the RoadPilot microGO GPS speed camera warning system. ‘If your reading this, you're probably like most drivers, got a couple of points on their licence, not because you are a bad driver (of course), but because at some point a speed camera has snapped you.To stop this happening there are two options. Option A, is to get a GPS device with built in speed camera alerts. Option B, is to get the RoadPilot microGO, but can this little device do the job? We go speeding to fine out.’

Read: RoadPilot microGO Review – Pocket-Lint

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CNET have published a review of the Motorola P790 portable power charger which provide a mobile power source for handsets and headsets with low or dead batteries, 'The Motorola P790 almost looks like a miniature version of the Motorola Pebl U6-- it has a soft-touch rubberized surface in a compact oval design. It measures 3.0 by 2.02 inches by 0.93 inch and weighs around 2.8 ounces, making it really easy to slip in a purse or pocket. On the front of the device is a slider mechanism that slides up to reveal a connector, which you can then plug into your phone. Sliding it up also activates the charge, which is indicated by a green LED light on the charger. On the bottom of the P790 is a charging jack, which you then attach to an AC adapter to juice up the charger. Yes, you have to charge the charger before you begin using it.'

Read: Motorola P790 Portable Power Charger - CNET