Handy Tool Guide

Pocket-Lint have published a review of the Laptable designed to accommodate your Notebook PC. 'The Laptable is unlike anything else we’ve seen – rather than plastic, it’s a decidedly lo-tech approach to construction, as it’s made from wood. As such, it isn’t intended for mobile use, as it’s heavy, solid and reassuring well built. The stand has foldaway legs that you pull to open and like an old school desk it has a hinged wooden lid. However, instead of opening like a desk, it can be pitched at an angle to rest your notebook on.'

Read: Laptable review - Pocket-Lint

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

A line of quick change cotton fiber abrasive discs that feature layered construction and reportedly last up to 25 times longer than resin fiber discs is available from Rex-Cut Products, Inc. of Fall River, Massachusetts.

Rex-Cut® Cotton Fiber Quick Change Discs feature multiple layers of non-woven cotton fiber that are impregnated with abrasive grains and then pressed and bonded into flexible discs; constantly exposing new abrasives as they work. Capable of lasting up to 25 times longer than resin fiber- and coated discs, these flexible discs can blend and finish corners using their face and edge.

Combining the aggressive properties of resin fiber- and coated abrasive discs and the blending and finishing properties of surface conditioning products, Rex-Cut® Cotton Fiber Quick Change Discs are suited for stainless steel, aluminum, and exotics. They are available with Roloc® and Sockatt® style fasteners in 1", 1-1/2", 2", and 3" sizes, in various grits and bonds.

Rex-Cut® Cotton Fiber Quick Change Discs are priced according to size and quantity. Samples, pricing and literature are available upon request. Website: http://www.rexcut.com

Posted by HTG Admin at 2:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

New cabinet hardware collection combines clean lines and modern functionality

(NASHVILLE, Tenn., USA: Jan. 10, 2008) Hickory Hardware™ (www.hickoryhardware.com), North America's leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of decorative, functional and industrial hardware, introduces the Axis collection of decorative cabinet hardware. Inspired by modern architecture and Art Deco furniture, the collection includes pulls in a range of sizes and stylesin a Satin Nickel finish.

Hickory Hardware's Axis collection of cabinet hardware incorporates elements of modern architectural details and Art Deco styling with functional home hardware design. The Axis collection's recessed lines and refined contours lend a jewelry-inspired, contemporary appeal that complements both modern and transitional home décor.

The Axis collection includes 96mm, 128mm, 4-1/2 inch and 5 inch center-to-center sized pulls, and is available in a Satin Nickel finish. Axis cabinet pulls from Hickory Hardware range in MSRP from $4.99 to $7.07 (USD), and are available in home improvement centers, hardware stores and designer showrooms across the United States and Canada.

For sales or marketing information, contact Hickory Hardware toll-free at (877) 556-2918, or at (615) 687-6300 outside of the United States, or e-mail customerservice@hickoryhardware.com.

For media information, contact Lauren A. Frohne, public relations, Koroberi, Inc. (www.koroberi.com), by phone at (919) 945-0525 or by e-mail at lauren@koroberi.com.

About Hickory Hardware
Hickory Hardware(TM) brings together some of the finest hardware companies in the world - Belwith International, Faultless Caster, Keeler Brass Company, Madico, and Wright Products. The company designs, manufactures and markets decorative, functional and industrial hardware to the retail, wholesale distribution, and OEM furniture and cabinetmaker markets under the brand names Hickory Hardware, Belwith, Faultless Caster, Keeler Brass, Madico, Period Brass, and Wright Products. For more information, visit www.hickoryhardware.com

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

LINCOLNSHIRE, IL – January 2008 – Klein Tools recently introduced its new Double-Locking Folding Utility Knife (Cat. No. 44108), which locks in both open and closed positions.

The Klein Double-Locking Folding Utility Knife’s exclusive design locks the blade when the knife is open and closed. With an easy blade release button, no tools are required to change a blade. The folding utility knife includes a pocket or belt clip for convenient storage.

Featuring a heavy-duty utility blade, the folding utility knife uses the most common blade found on the jobsite. The knife’s overall length is 6-1/8 inches, but when closed, it is 3 inches long. The knife weighs 4.9 ounces.

“The exclusive double-locking feature of Klein’s Double-Locking Folding Utility Knife is unique to the market, and expands Klein’s own line of knives with this additional design,” said Peter Grable, product manager, Klein Tools.

2007 marked 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. Website: http://www.kleintools.com/

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

CNET have published a review of the WildCharger which presently is capable of charging the Motorola Razr V3. 'The WildCharger is composed of three parts: the charger itself, an AC power adapter, and a special adapter for your phone. The first part is the most interesting. As we mentioned previously, it looks like a placemat, albeit one the Jetsons might have used. The broad metal stripes do more than just reflect the light; they actually serve as the pad's conductive surface. The back of the pad is sturdy plastic and on one side are the charger port and a small indicator light. The pad measures 6.75 inches by 8.5 inches by 0.75 inch and weighs just 4 ounces. No, it won't fit in your pocket, but it should slip easily into a large satchel or suitcase. The AC adapter is nothing special; just plug it into your socket and connect it to the charging pad. The cord could be longer and we wish the adapter wasn't so wide (it takes up a lot of room on a power strip), but those are minor gripes.'

Read: WildCharger bundle (AT&T & T-Mobile RAZR) - CNET

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

Garden City, New York---Designed with a high level of versatility and functionality, W.A.C. Lighting unveils a series of Miniature Line Voltage GU10 Track Heads. W.A.C. Lighting is a leading designer and manufacturer of track, recessed, undercabinet, decorative and monorail lighting.

The firm's Miniature Line Voltage Track Luminaires can be mounted and aimed in nearly any configuration, to provide just the right amount of light that is needed, especially with the modern architecture of today's homes and commercial spaces.

The group includes the popular Flex Arm style, and the classic Flyback and Gimbal Ring styles. These track heads utilize GU10 lamps to achieve the small and sleek look of a MR16 track head, without the need for a transformer. The series includes track heads with Amber and White glass shades, as well as Black and White metal finishes.

About W.A.C. Lighting

W.A.C. Lighting has developed a stellar reputation for a high quality product line backed by an extraordinary level of service. Customer service features an unprecedented shipping record (96% of orders shipped within 48 hours), a state-of-the-art SAP software system; outstanding service professionals; updated product literature (including a new full-size catalog), and a strong lineup of point-of-purchase displays.

The firm also offers a west coast distribution center and offices in City of Industry, Calif., an expanded corporate headquarters and east coast distribution center in Garden City, NY, and a new state-0f-the-art showroom in Dallas.

Innovative and integrated systems technologies are hallmarks of the W.A.C. Lighting product line. Most recently the firm has introduced a new Bronze finish in its Low Voltage Monorail System and Counter Balance Adjustables family, stunning blown-glass pendants, Flexrail1- a new line voltage monorail system, new undercabinet lighting fixtures, and more.

Its extensive line also includes: Five Track Systems; a Line and Low Voltage Recessed Line; Crystal Beauty Spots; Wall Sconces; Monopoints; Multipoints; SMART Transformers; and accessories.

W.A.C. Lighting is headquartered at 615 South Street, Garden City, New York 11530. The phone is 1.800.526.2588, and the fax is 1.800.526.2585. The email address is info@waclighting.com and the website is www.waclighting.com

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Computeractive have published a review of the APC Universal Notebook Battery. 'Unlike the Trust power adapter, this product acts as a replacement or additional battery for a notebook computer, but in many ways it's similar. Rather than sliding into the battery's place inside the notebook, the Universal Notebook Battery stays outside, connecting to the notebook using the power connector. The battery sits between your computer and its power adapter (or a compatible adapter such as the Trust model), and charges up along with the computer's internal battery.'

Read: Review: APC Universal Notebook Battery 50 - Computeractive

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Trusted Reviews have published a review of the ATP Photofinder GPS Picture Tracker. 'In actual use the ATP Photofinder is very simple to operate. It is activated by pressing and holding the power button for a few seconds, whereupon it attempts to acquire a signal from the GPS satellite system. I found that when first activated, it took around ten minutes to acquire its signal, but was much quicker on subsequent uses, connecting in a couple of minutes. Like most GPS devices it is not capable of picking up a signal inside a building or in a car, but outdoors it worked very well most of the time, although I did notice that it lost its signal when standing on the north side of some tall buildings. I took it out for a walk around my home town, taking a series of photos at local landmarks along my way. When I got home I inserted the camera's memory card into the unit, and it took about a minute to add the GPS location data to the files. It's worth noting at this point that the Photofinder only supports JPEG files.'

Read: ATP Photofinder GPS Picture Tracker - Trusted Reviews

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

A review of the Energizer Energi To Go portable power outlet has been posted over at Brighthand.com. 'Setup for the Portable Power Outlet involves simply plugging it into a wall to charge, and nothing more. When the red charging indicator on the power switch turns off the outlet is ready to power your devices. You also have the option of charging the device inside an automobile with the included 12v power jack. To use the Portable Power Outlet for AC powered devices, the instructions tell you to turn the device on for 5-10 seconds, and then plug in your device. This method does not work for me, and it will only turn on the AC output if I have the device plugged in while the outlet is off, then I turn it on.'

Read: Energizer Energi To Go Portable Power Outlet Review - Brighthand.com

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A review of the Blaupunkt TravelPilot Lucca 3.5 satellite navigation device has been posted over at Trusted Reviews. 'Blaupunkt, more famous for its car stereos than navigation systems, has chosen this very route for its new TravelPilot Lucca 3.5 system; and it's the third product I've looked at for TrustedReviews over the past few months to use a very similar software front end. That's no bad thing. After all, the Panasonic Strada CN-GP50N employed the very same tactic to good effect this time last month. But you still have to put all the elements together, and Blaupunkt has made a bit of a pig's ear out of a silk purse with this one. It looks pretty promising when you pull it out of the box. As you'd expect from a manufacturer famed for the quality of its products, the Lucca 3.5 is beautifully built and designed. Its gloss black and gunmetal finish wouldn't look out of place in the cockpit of a BMW M5 and setting it off is the trademark blue dot in the centre, below the screen - here backlit and doubling up as a power button.'

Read: Blaupunkt TravelPilot Lucca 3.5 Sat-Nav - Trusted Reviews

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Auto Express have published a review of ten microfibre cloths. 'Forget nano particles, car wash guns or everlasting polishes... the biggest revolution in valeting over the past couple of years has been the microfibre cloth. It’s essential if you want to make cleaning your car easier. The secret is in the fibres, which are split into tiny strands that can dig out grime and hold it. Not only can the cloth clean, but it also absorbs water, and several makers now produce special weaves to suit particular jobs, such as glass cleaning or buffing.'

Read: Microfibre Cloths - Auto Express

Posted by HTG Admin at 4:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Hitachi Power Tools has introduced the DH45MR 1-3/4" SDS Max Rotary Hammer which is designed to handle concrete, mortar, tile, and other hard materials. 'Designed with a powerful 11.6 amp motor that delivers 1200 watts of input power, this new rotary hammer out specs the competition. Using a highly efficient striking transmission, the DH45MR produces 30% faster drilling speeds and 15% greater chiseling performance than even the closest competitors. Constant speed control delivers consistent and efficient performance through varying loads. Electronic variable speed control gives the tool a full-load RPM from 120-240 and an impact rate of 1200-2500 BPM, allowing the user to manage the tool speed according to the demands of the material.'

Features:
• 11.4 ft-lbs of impact energy, delivering high-speed drilling and forcible chipping with low vibration and noise level
• 2-modes of operation, hammer only and hammer & drill for flexibility within a range of applications
• 11.6 Amp motor, increases productivity
• Built-in electronic control circuit, keeps speed constant even as load varies
• Needle-pin slip clutch, for higher slip torque accuracy and safety
• Variable lock system, makes bit replacement simple and offers 12-angle positions for chiseling
• Soft, non-slip Elastomer grip handle, absorbs vibration and improves comfort and handling
• Revolutionary IDI (Internal Double Insulation) technology, incorporated into the housing of the tool greatly improves reliability and extends the tool life
• Removable side handle with depth gauge, improves control and ensures accurate drilling depth

Read: Hitachi Introduces the DH45MR 1-3/4" SDS Max Rotary Hammer with Revolutionary IDI Technology - Thomas net

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

PC Magazine have published a review of the YMax magicJack voice-over-IP device which plugs into your computer’s USB connection and then in any corded, cordless or portable phone to facilitate calls. 'The magicJack device, about the size of a box of Tic Tacs, has a USB plug on one end and an RJ-11 phone jack on the other. I had to connect mine to a Windows PC, but Mac OS X drivers should be ready soon. After USB plug meets USB port, you'll wait a minute or so while the magicJack software gets automatically loaded. Those who already have magicJack will be happy to know that the company says a firmware rev released while I was testing makes the hardware more resilient to problems caused by fluctuating electrical levels in foreign countries. It also installs hardware echo control, which taxes your CPU about 50 percent less than before. If this is your first time using the device, you'll have to run through a registration process. You either request a new number or ask to have your existing number ported (porting availability depends on where you are, takes up to 60 days, and has a $10 surcharge attached); then you input the information necessary to make e911 work (so that emergency services know where you're calling from). The process should force you off the couch for 60 seconds or so, but that's it: no phone configuration, no Internet router tweaks. Low-tech folks who just want a cheap phone can just plug a regular analog phone into the magicJack's RJ-11 port and start dialing.'

Read: YMax magicJack - PC Mag

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Press Release

Space-Saving Conical Surge Protector for Today’s Digital Lifestyle

Rosemead, California - January 2, 2008 - Kreative Power, LLC today introduced a new line of compact centralized surge protectors, the POWRAMID E-Series, designed to power and protect today's demanding electronics and electrical appliances. POWRAMID represents the next evolution of power multi-outlet design. Unlike conventional power strip and bulky circular multi-outlet designs on the market, POWRAMID is a space-saving conical surge protector, having six widely-spaced outlets that can accommodate large-size plugs. Other key features include a stable base, centralized on/off switch, ergonomic hold-down knob, and safety switch cover.

The POWRAMID E-Series comes in several models. The POWRAMID E-900H model features an 8-ft power cord with right-angle low-profile plug, a transparent safety switch cover, an illuminating round on/off switch, a re-settable 15A circuit breaker, and a surge protection LED indicator. The device supports 900 Joules of surge protection and measures only 5 inches in diameter. It fits in tight spaces under desks or on top of tables. The compact size of POWRAMID E-Series makes storage easy and makes it easy to carry for portability.

"POWRAMID is revolutionary in both form and function. The conical pyramid shape of POWRAMID adds a unique aesthetic appeal to the product, and the newly invented features significantly benefit the end-user," said Bonnie Jiang, director of sales and marketing for Kreative Power. "POWRAMID is an ideal surge protector that fits today's multi-device, digital lifestyle."

The POWRAMID E-Series will be highlighted at the 2008 International CES, which runs January 7-10, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kreative Power staff members will be present at Innovations Plus at the Sands Pod IP210 to showcase the products and entertain questions.

Pricing & Availability

The POWRAMID E-Series will be available for purchase through Kreative Power's selected retailers or directly online via www.kreativepower.com starting March 2008. For pricing information, please contact a Kreative Power sales representative at sales@kreative power.com.

About Kreative Power

Kreative Power develops and markets a diverse mix of power products for today's digital lifestyle. Through creativity and innovation, Kreative Power thrives to create products that provide overt consumer benefits blended with strong aesthetic values to greatly enhance the user-product experience. Kreative Power's motto is "Making everyday power products simply better." For more information on POWRAMID and latest updates on upcoming products, please visit www.kreativepower.com.

Posted by HTG Admin at 1:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bosch Power Tools and Accessories has introduced the lightweight S5 Orbital Jigsaw which "is the ideal option for woodworkers, remodelers, serious DIYers and others who are ready to move up to a pro-caliber jigsaw". 'Long known for industry-leading innovation and performance in the jigsaw category, Bosch's latest offering delivers both without breaking the bank. For example, Bosch's exclusive One Touch(TM) blade change system enables one-handed blade changes. This feature provides quick and easy blade changes during any project. The variable speed dial allows users to precisely control the saw's 5.7 amps of power and match speed of cut (500-3,100 SPM) for a smooth and quality finish on their workpiece. Users can even adjust the type of cut - from smooth to aggressive - simply by using the saw's 4-position orbital action feature and choosing the appropriate blade.'

Read: New Bosch Jigsaw Packs Pro Features into Value Priced Package - Thomas Net

Posted by HTG Admin at 4:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Pocket-Lint have published a review of the Akasa Gemini Notebook Cooler. 'If you own a desktop replacement notebook, it's likely that when you're using it for long periods of time, you'll find the casing grows warm, if not hot, to the touch. The addition of a cooling stand can often make this disappear. A cooling stand may seem little superfluous but we found this latest version from Akasa helped keep our long running test machine cool. Designed to be large enough to fit a machine with a screen up to 17 inches but if you’ve a larger notebook than this, you’ll find it will balance satisfactorily.'

Read: Akasa Gemini Notebook Cooler Review - Pocket-Lint

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A review of the Energizer Energi To Go portable power outlet has been posted over at Notebook Review. 'Setup for the Portable Power Outlet is plugging it into a wall to charge, and nothing more. When the red charging indicator on the power switch turns off the outlet is ready to power your devices. Users also have the option of charging the device inside an automobile with the included 12v power jack. To use the Portable Power Outlet for AC powered devices, the instructions tell you to turn the device on for 5-10 seconds, and then plug in your device. This method does not work for me, and it will only turn on the AC output if I have the device plugged in while the outlet is off, then I turn it on.'

Read: Energizer Energi To Go Review - Notebook Review

Posted by HTG Admin at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

Vaisala introduces the Vaisala Surge Protector WSP150, a compact transient overvoltage suppressor designed for outdoor use. The WSP150 offers three-stage protection against surge currents up to 10 kA entering through the power and signal cables.

The WSP150 has four channels, two of which are dedicated to power lines and two for data lines. Each channel uses a three-stage protection scheme as follows: first there are discharge tubes, then voltage dependent resistors (VDR), and finally transient zener diodes. Between each stage, there are either series inductors or resistors.

Both differential and common mode protection is provided for each channel: across the wire pairs, against the operating voltage ground, and against the earth. The WSP150 also includes noise filtering against HF and RF interference.

The WSP50 is designed to be used when wind and weather instruments are installed on top of high buildings or masts and in open grounds, or anywhere where there is an elevated risk of lightning. The WSP150 can also be used if your cable length exceeds 30 m or you have unshielded, open-wire lines. Website: http://www.vaisala.com

Posted by HTG Admin at 3:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Pocket-Lint have published a review of the Targus Defcon 1 security device for securing your Notebook. 'It's the only device we've seen that combines a steel cable with motion sensor technology. The four-digit tumbler lock is configurable, so offers over 10,000 number variations, so can’t be easily cracked by the casual thief. So, you can attach the 0.9-metre cable to some immovable object, such as an airport chair or even to your desk and anyone attempting to move your notebook, or trying to cut the cable, will be sensed by the monitor.'

Read: Targus Defcon 1 Notebook Lock Review - Pocket-Lint

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A review of the Proporta USB Mobile Device Charger has bee posted over at GadgetNutz.com. 'The Proporta USB Mobile Device Charger (Mobile Charger) is basically an external rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that holds 3400mAh of power. The idea behind the product is simple: charge your devices when you’re on the go using the Mobile Charger and recharge the unit itself via any standard USB port. The device itself is pretty lightweight and compact measuring just 100 x 62 x 15mm or 3.9 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches and weighs 120g or 4.2 oz, small enough to fit in a purse or pocket. The device is done in a shiny white color and due to the similar dimensions it might fool others into thinking that you’re carrying an IPod. The Mobile Charger has this thin rectangle casing with rounded edges. Save for a few sectional lines indicating where the different parts come together, the unit is clean and simple and I find it to look quite good. No problems with the white, but I wish Proporta would make a black version to match most of my gadgets that come in black.'

Read: The Ultimate Accessory? Proporta USB Mobile Device Charger - GadgetNutz.com

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Auto Express have published their review of seven cordless drills. 'Until recently, cordless drills have lagged behind mains versions in two areas: torque and maximum speed under load. To test low-down grunt, each tool had to drive a screw into a series of ever-smaller holes in a steel plate until it could turn no more. For the speed test, we attached a polishing pad and used the drills on an old scrap panel, deliberately pressing hard to see how they coped. We also tested battery life, while features such as multi speeds, a hammer action, spare batteries, a fast charger, decent cases and a large chuck earned extra points. Draper’s 40765 is a brilliant package that’s ideal for frequent DIY use. Its sub-£50 price clinches it the top spot. Hot on its heels is Site’s Drill/Driver. It slightly outperforms the winner, but costs more and doesn’t have a hammer function. Draper’s capable 41426 is third. It’s the priciest tool here, but you’d easily pay double for the same performance from a professional drill.'

Read: Cordless Drills - Auto Express

Posted by HTG Admin at 9:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Computeractive have published a review of the DIY Kyoto Wattson gadget which monitors electricity consumption in the home. 'Wattson is a smart energy meter, with some useful extra features that separate it from most of the competition. There are three main components: a sensor that clamps around one of the mains electricity cables coming into your domestic meter, a transmitter that attaches to the sensor and a display unit to be positioned anywhere within transmission range. With its retro white and black acrylic case, the display unit has a faint hint of the kind of box electronics hobbyists used to use for home-grown projects, which adds a nostalgic touch to the product.'

Read: Review: DIY Kyoto Wattson peripheral - Computeractive

Posted by HTG Admin at 10:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Pocket-Lint have reviewed the iRadiopop Internet Radio USB Dongle which plugs into a computer’s USB port and provides access to 7000 world wide internet radio channels facilitated by preinstalled iRadiopop software. ‘The fact that the iRadioPop is tiny, this dongle measures 48mm x 18mm and weighs in at just 8g, helps of course. Oh, and it needs no batteries because it is a USB stick so grabs the minimal power it requires directly from the computer it is connected to. Then there is the small matter of it also being a radio recorder, allowing you to grab a Windows Media audio file of whatever you happen to be listening to at the time and play it back later.’

Read: iRadioPop USB Internet Radio Player and Recorder Review – Pocket-Lint

Posted by HTG Admin at 10:37 PM <