Handy Tool Guide

BargainOutfitters.com has the Great Neck 18 - volt Cordless / Rechargeable Drill on offer for $19.97 plus shipping.
Features:
• Keyless 3/8" chuck for quick bit changes
• 16 torque settings for maximum control and power
• Includes 18V rechargeable battery and AC quick-charger
• Dual bit storage onboard for easy access
• Weighs 4 1/2 lbs.
• Comes with 2 Phillips, 2 regular screwdriver bits, hard case and extra drill bits.

Source: Bargain Outfitters

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A review of the Belkin CushTop Hideaway has been posted over at Notebook Review. 'The CushTop Hideaway is designed for use on the couch, bed or floor as a CushTop. The only color choice so far is brown with a light blue inside compartment. The material feels durable and hides dirt well. The design is very simplistic and sleek, there really isn't much to it. The CushTop doesn't have any handles or pockets. It's just a rounded box with a slot in the middle where your tablet or notebook stores inside securely. The design is solid and has no signs of flex. In fact, right out of the packaging, I had a hard time putting my 13.3" Fujitsu T5010 tablet inside and pulling it out. That is how stiff the material was. I am sure after a few uses though it will loosen up.'

Read: Belkin CushTop Hideaway Review - Notebook Review

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Press Release

RONKONKOMA, NY - With the price of steel rising at unprecedented rates, aluminum can be an attractive alternative in many design applications. The cost of all metals has been increasing, but mild steel prices are moving up at a substantially higher rate than aluminum and stainless steel. Aluminum is typically used as a less expensive alternative to stainless steel in applications that call for corrosion resistance and/or lighter weight. But in today’s marketplace, with plain steel and plating costs going up so fast, aluminum can be competitive to steel too, especially when corrosion protection is required.

Recognizing the value of using aluminum in this economic environment, H.A. Guden Co., Inc. has introduced a new, lower cost line of aluminum continuous hinges. Guden’s new AL Series aluminum hinges are made of 3003 Series alloy and are stocked in various widths in .040, .050 and .060 inch leaf thicknesses with .50 inch knuckles. This commercial strength alloy is considerably less expensive than Guden’s type-5052 hinge and can be used for most standard applications. In addition, due to its softer properties, it is a more desirable alloy for hinges being machined or put through secondary processes.

For applications requiring more strength and durability, Guden also offers 5052 alloy AA Series aluminum hinges. In military applications, which are in high demand and not always easy to find, Guden stocks a tremendous amount of Mil-Spec continuous aluminum hinges, including the MS20001, MS20257, and A-A-55500 series.

Technical drawings, purchasing, and immediate delivery are all available by phone, fax, and online at http://guden.com.

Established in 1920, Guden is an ISO 9000 Registered Company.

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Laptop Magazine have published a review of the Mophie Juice Pack which has an integrated rechargeable battery to keep your phone juiced up with power. 'The Juice Pack protects the iPhone’s back, which is far more susceptible to scratches and dents than the glass front, and the green inner lining doesn’t scuff despite a tight fit. A black nonslip coating and gray rubber strips on either side provide an excellent grip. On the back are four blue LED charge indicators; press the small button next to them to see the battery’s remaining juice.'

Read: mophie Juice Pack - Laptop Mag

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

BETHEL, Conn., July 24, 2008 -- A recent survey showed that 54 percent of U.S. air travelers admit to at least one instance of sitting on the floor to charge a device through an airport power outlet.(1) Duracell(R) today introduced two portable power solutions to help people on-the-go stand up to their personal power needs.

The Duracell(R) My Pocket Charger and the Duracell(R) PowerSource Mini are pocket-sized power sources for popular devices such as a cell phone, BlackBerry(R) and MP3 player. They're small and versatile, making them especially convenient for travelers looking for ways to reduce the number of extra cords, chargers and device-specific batteries required for mobile devices. Each My Pocket Charger comes with two Duracell(R) CopperTop AA batteries, and the Duracell(R) PowerSource Mini's lithium-ion battery can be recharged through a lightweight AC charger, through a vehicle's DC socket, or through a computer's USB port.

The Duracell(R) My Pocket Charger is available in two models. One model features a connector for MP3 players and will provide up to 24 hours of music on the latest iPod(R) Nano; the other model features a connector for all BlackBerry(R) models and the newest Motorola(R) phones, and will provide up to one hour of talk time. The Duracell(R) PowerSource Mini includes a mini USB pivot arm that allows users to connect directly to a device without needing to carry a charge cable. A second USB port allows users to power two devices at once.

Americans today are more connected to their mobile devices than ever before, with 87 percent of U.S. households owning a cell phone, and an estimated 88.2 million MP3 players currently in use.(2) More surprisingly, a recent study commissioned by Xantrex Technology Inc. reveals the lengths travelers will go to power up while on the go. Results of the study show that 79 percent of air travelers admit that it is important to have their own portable power for their devices while traveling, yet over half of the survey respondents, 54 percent, reported sitting on the floor to use an airport's power outlet and 31 percent say they have walked to a different terminal to find an outlet.(1) In the survey, 25 percent of air travelers would even give up a first class seat in exchange for a mobile power source.

"Everyone wants their charge to last a little longer, and the Duracell My Pocket Charger and PowerSource Mini will provide the personal power insurance every road warrior needs," said Rick June, Duracell Vice President and General Manager. "Our portable devices give us the freedom to work, communicate and be entertained from almost any location. These charging solutions extend that freedom when you can't be near a power outlet."

These power solutions are available online and at select mass and specialty retail stores nationwide. Visit www.duracellpower.com to learn about the full line of products.

These new products are being introduced through Duracell's business alliance with Xantrex Technology, Inc., which was announced March 2007. An innovator in portable power and backup power products, Xantrex solutions allow customers to operate and charge mobile electronic devices such as laptop computers, PDAs, cell phones and more, so they can stay productive when on the go. Xantrex also provides portable and home emergency backup power sources, and smart charging capabilities for automotive batteries.

About Duracell
Part of the Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE: PG), Duracell is the world's leading manufacturer of high-performance alkaline batteries. Duracell also sells various other types of batteries including lithium and zinc air batteries, as well as rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries and chargers. The company also markets general purpose flashlights. Visit www.duracell.com for more information about Duracell batteries.

About P&G (NYSE: PG)
Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Mach3(R), Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Gain(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), Wella(R), Gillette(R), and Braun(R). The P&G community consists of 138,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

Posted by HCG Admin at 5:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

CNET have published a review of the Funkwerk Ego Cup Bluetooth hands-free car kit. 'The nice-looking Ego Cup feels pretty cheap, lightweight, and hollow. The main interface is a large silver speaker that sits beneath an expanse of glossy black plastic. Visually, this is pretty pleasing, but like most glossy devices, the Ego Cup is a fingerprint and smudge magnet. There are what appear to be soft-touch contacts for answer, end, and volume inlayed into the plastic, but upon closer inspection, we found that they are actually labels for four regular buttons hidden beneath the plastic. They require a firm press to register and make a sort of cheap clicking sound.

However, the Ego Cup isn't a device that users will spend a lot of time holding and examining up close. The "Cup" in Ego Cup refers to the fact that the hands-free system is designed to fit into your vehicle's cup holder. The base of the device holds it snuggly into place and allows it to fit a variety of different size cup holders. Once firmly in place in our test vehicle, the cheap feeling we mentioned earlier wasn't as much of a factor, and after a while we hardly noticed.'

Read: Ego Cup - CNET

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

PC World have published a review of the Polaroid PoGo portable printer. 'This printer is the first to use Zink, the zero-ink technology pioneered by Polaroid (Polaroid's parent company has since spun off Zink into a separate subsidiary). The PoGo's thermal print head activates the 100 billion dye crystals embedded in Polaroid's new proprietary, glossy photo paper (peel away the back and your photo becomes a sticker). Sheets of the 2-by-3-inch media are thinner than the old Polaroid print paper and contain three layers of primary colors suspended in the paper itself.

The small printer fits in your palm, though its power pack is almost the same size and weight, and the included rechargeable battery handles only about 15 to 20 prints on a single charge.'

Read: Polaroid PoGo Portable Photo Printer - PC World

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

The Sportsmans Guide has the KR Tools 3.5" Bench Vice on offer for $19.97 plus shipping. If you choose to join the site's "Buyers Club" you will have access to discounts on your purchase(s).
Features:
• Made of durable cast iron, with replaceable 3 1/2" forged, hardened steel jaws
• Dual-locking 360° swivel base, so it's easy to get the perfect angle
• Chrome-plated steel turn handle
• Durable, baked-enamel finish
• Drilled bolt holes for easy securing to your bench
• Has a striking anvil on top
• Vise rated at 8,000 psi. Approx. 9"l. closed. Weighs 10 lbs., 5 ozs.

Source: SportsmansGuide.com

Posted by HCG Admin at 4:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

Universal adapter meets UL and IEC 60601-1 medical safety standards...

FREMONT, Calif. Phihong, the global leader in low-cost power supplies, has developed a 30W universal 2-wire input adapter for medical equipment. Designated the PSAM30R series, the adapter works with interchangeable AC power plugs and is approved to UL and IEC 60601-1 medical safety standards as well as AS/NZS 4417 for Australia and New Zealand. The adapter, which also complies with California’s Appliance Efficiency Regulation and the federal government’s Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, is ideal for applications such as patient hoists, dental curing equipment, and portable dental and medical equipment.

“Phihong has been approached by a number of OEMs that produce medical equipment to develop an adapter that would bring the cost and energy efficiencies that our products provide in other applications to the medical industry,” said Keith Hopwood, vice president of marketing for Phihong USA.

The interchangeable AC power plugs are one of the key cost-saving features, as they allow OEMs to ship the same product anywhere in the world without requiring the cost of keeping inventory of different country-specific adapters to meet different current requirements.

The double-insulated adapter features less than 100 uA leakage current and a no load power draw of less than 0.5W at 115 VAC and less than 0.75W at 230 VAC.

The PSAM30R is available in a single +12VDC output and a single +24VDC output. It measures 3.94 inches x 2.48 inces x 1.41 inches and weighs 7.05 ounces, and is equipped with over-voltage, over-current and short circuit protection.

Phihong has been active in promoting environmentally sound power products, adapting its product lines to meet RoHS, WEEE, EU Code of Conduct, China Energy Council, Canadian Standards, ENERGY STAR®, and Proposition 65.

The PSAM30R is priced at $30.16 each for a quantity of 10 pieces. A detailed specification is available on the Web site at www.phihong.com.

Phihong is one of the leading suppliers of power solutions, including power supplies, adapters and Power-over-Ethernet products, to networking OEMs. With global sales for 2008 expected to exceed $550 million, Phihong has engineering and manufacturing facilities in North and South America, Taiwan and mainland China. For more information contact Thomas Chin, Phihong USA Corporation, 47800 Fremont Blvd., Fremont, CA 94538, or call (510) 445-0100, fax (510) 445-1678, email usasales@phihongusa.com, or visit http://www.phihong.com.

Posted by HCG Admin at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Trusted Reviews have published a review of the Binatone Carrera C350 navigator. 'For starters it has a huge information bar running down the left hand side of the screen that cannot be removed. This features various status windows showing information such as speed, ETA and journey time and has a bulbous next-turning indicator at the top and a menu button at the bottom. It's a far from ideal use of space - giving a quarter of the screen over permanently to the info bar still seriously cramps the style of a small 320 x 240 pixel, 3.5in TFT such as the one on the C350. Moreover, the interface that lies behind this awkward screen layout is still a little unintuitive and confusing.'

Read: Binatone Carrera C350 Sat-Nav - Trusted Reviews

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

PC Perspective have published a review of the OCZ EliteXStream 1000W power supply. 'The OCZ EliteXStream 1000W power supply is rated for a combined, continuous output power of up to 1,000 watts at 50°C operating temperature (internal case air temperature). That’s important, as some less reputable manufactures limit their power supply’s advertised capacity by specifying a lower operating temperature (25°C) in the fine print. The PSU includes universal AC line input (automatically adjusts the AC line voltage) and active PFC, which makes the unit more environmentally friendly to the local power grid.

The EliteXStream PSU incorporates a single, powerful +12V output that can deliver up to 80A (960W) of combined load. Using a single +12V rail is a trend we are seeing in many newer power supplies and has been championed for years by PC Power & Cooling. Traditionally, manufacturers have created multiple +12V outputs by implementing current limiting circuits into their design to conform to the old 240 VA maximum guidelines – no single output should exceed 240 VA (12V x 20A = 240 VA). Having multiple current limited +12V outputs can lead to power distribution problems, particularly with some power-hungry video cards. Delivering a single, powerful +12V output is a better approach IMHO.'

Read: OCZ EliteXStream 1000W Power Supply Review - PC Perspective

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amazon.com has the Dirt Devil CE6300 Easy Steamer Carpet Steamer with Onboard Tools on offer for $79.99 with free standard shipping. 'Equipped with a powerful 5-1/5 amp motor, this upright steamer delivers professional steam cleaning on a variety of home surfaces, including carpeting, upholstery, and more. The unit's 11-inch cleaning path cuts a wide swath, cleaning more carpet in less time, while an array of attachments, including an 8-foot hose and an upholstery nozzle, allow for concentrated cleaning in hard-to-reach areas. Separate solution and recovery tanks ensure dirty water never gets put back onto the floor, and both reservoirs remove quickly for convenient filling or emptying. In addition, the full-size 1-gallon solution tank means less stops for refilling, and an indicator light alerts to when the soiled water tank needs to be emptied.'

Source: Amazon

Posted by HCG Admin at 4:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A review of the Belkin Power and Go travel adapter has been posted over at Pocket-Lint. 'Consisting of a main powerbrick, which is capable of powering any laptop up to 17 inches in size, the Power and Go comes with one end that can be hooked up to one of 12 supplied power adapters covering all the main manufacturers on the market. The other end can be connected to either a standard power socket or you can add a cigarette lighter adapter for use when on the move. There is a tidy cable wrap design to the powerbrick, which we found took up less space in our briefcase than a standard charger.'

Read: Belkin Power and Go travel adapter review - Pocket-Lint

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

SYCAMORE, IL, IDEAL has expanded its offering of durable, highly functional hand tools with the introduction today of its redesigned Triple Tap threading tool. Whether it's forming new screw threads, cleaning out obstructions, or retapping burred and stripped threads, the Triple Tap is ready to tackle any job the professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer throws at it.

Engineered for comfort, safety and maximum productivity, the IDEAL Triple Tap now features a Santoprene® handle that acts to reduce the risk of repetitive strains injuries. Soft yet durable, the textured handle assures a steady, slip-resistant grip even when wet. In addition, it extends tool service life by resisting damaging oils, fluids, perspiration and abrasions.

The IDEAL Triple Tap has three thread sizes, ether 6-32, 8-32 and 10-24 (part #35-411) or 6-32, 8-32 and 10-32 (part #35-412). Each tap size rethreads to the larger size if the thread is stripped. The tool is ruggedly built and compact to reach places where space may be an issue.

The IDEAL Triple Tap is immediately available with an MSRP of $23.64 (U.S.).

For more information, contact IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC., Becker Place, Sycamore, Illinois 60178. Or phone 1-800-435-0705, Fax: 1-800-533-4483. On the web, www.idealindustries.com.

About IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. has been serving the electrical industry since 1916. IDEAL is one of the world's leading manufacturers of professional quality tools and supplies serving installation professionals in the construction, maintenance, data communications and original equipment manufacturing industries.

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Posted by HCG Admin at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Computeractive have published a review of the Cubebyte lock which claims to be "the only lock designed to automatically adjust to the depth of the security slot" of your computer. 'The Cubebyte lock, like all locks, fits into the locking socket on the computer. This is a tiny hole in one side, only a few millimetres wide. It's also known as a Kensington lock/socket – most computers are fitted with them, but it's worth checking yours before investing in a lock, of course.'

Read: Review: Cubebyte accessory - Computeractive

Posted by HCG Admin at 3:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Press Release

WEST CHESTER, Pa. Metabo Corporation, a leading international manufacturer of professional grade portable electric power tools and abrasives for industrial, construction and welding applications, has introduced the new W8-115Quick angle grinder, featuring "cool flow" technology with repositioned brushes for unrestricted airflow and a fan that pulls 35% more air through the tool to keep it running cooler during operation.

With Metabo's optimum cooling technology, the new W8-115Quick angle grinder is ideal for the toughest applications, such as cutting and grinding metal or concrete. The 4-1/2" angle grinder features an 8.0 amp motor with 800 watts of power, 19.5 in/lbs of torque and a no-load speed of 10,000 RPM.

Double lipped labyrinth sealed bearings, a unique winding protection grid and epoxy coated windings protect the motor and other essential components from harmful dust and debris, extending motor life up to five times that of competitve models.

Weighing only 6.2 pounds, this lightweight grinder features a secure "racket" grip and dual grip zones for comfortable, ergonomic handling. The tool's anti-vibration side handle absorbs up to 60% of the vibration and, coupled with excellent balance, allows the operator to hold the tool longer, resulting in fatigue-free operation.

The angle grinder features Metabo's Quick tool-less wheel change system, allowing the operator to change wheels effortlessly to decrease downtime for optimal production. In addition, the tool offers safety features including a tool-less guard adjustment, spindle lock and an "S-Automatic" safety slip clutch to protect the operator from kickback by absorbing the torque created if the wheel would bind or snag.

About Metabo:
Metabo, a leading international manufacturer of professional grade portable electric power tools and abrasives for industrial, construction and welding applications, has international headquarters in Nurtingen, Germany and U.S. headquarters in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The company has focused its product development on technological advancements in electronic circuitry and mechanical design, which has resulted in high performance, durable electric power tools. The name Metabo is German for "metal-boring," symbolic of the first tool -- a metal-boring tool -- manufactured by the company in 1924. Website: www.metabo.com

Posted by HCG Admin at 10:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amazon.com has the Apollo Precision Tools DT1035 4.8 Volt Rechargeable Cordless Screwdriver on offer for $19.00 plus shipping. 'This 4.8 Volt rechargeable cordless screwdriver has an automatic spindle lock which allows manual tightening of screws. The 23 position clutch prevents stripping of screws while the pivoting handle allows for access to tight places. The handle features Soft Touch Grip form comfort. Multi Position Pivoting Handle is great for accessibility into tight places. Each tool is tested against industry standards for hardness, torque, finish and usability. Includes Five 2" Screwdriver Bits slotted 1/8; 3/16; PH #1; PH #2; PHZ0.'

Source: Amazon

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Posted by HCG Admin at 1:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A review of the Vencon UBA5 Ultimate Battery Analyzer & Cha