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August 31, 2008

Review: Ricoh Aficio SPC220N Colour Laser Printer - Trusted Reviews

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A review of the compact Ricoh Aficio SPC220N colour laser printer has been posted over at Trusted Reviews. 'The SPC220N is a well-styled, small-footprint, small-workgroup, colour laser printer. The simple, but well laid-out LED indicators under a black strip along the front of the machine fit well into the multiple curves of its cream and grey case. At the bottom of the front panel is a 250-sheet paper tray with an inset single-sheet feed slot. Paper feeds to the usual indent in the top cover of the machine. At the back are slots for USB 2.0 and Ethernet sockets, all behind a clip-off panel so just the cables show.

The printer comes with its four toner and drum cartridges pre-installed, but you need to remove each in turn to pull off their protective covers before refitting them. This is easy to do as the top cover lifts up to the vertical and each of the cartridges slide in and out very precisely. The fuser unit is available at the front, once you've folded down the machine's front cover.'

Read: Ricoh Aficio SPC220N Colour Laser Printer - Trusted Reviews

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August 29, 2008

Craftsman 9.6V Cordless Drill w/24 Accessories, Battery, Charger and Case for $34.99 @ Sears

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Sears.com has the Craftsman 9.6V Cordless Drill w/24 accessories, battery, charger and case on offer for $34.99 plus shipping or via your local Sears store. 'Craftsman 3/8 in. Cordless drill is powered by a 9.6 volt battery and provides 0-600 rpm (no-load) of speed for drilling/driving. Variable speed motor allows you to match drilling/driving speed to the correct bit for materials you are using, allowing you to use this drill for a variety of jobs. Increase the pressure on the trigger switch for higher speeds, decrease the pressure for lower speeds. Reverse to remove fasteners.'

Source: Sears

August 28, 2008

Auto Exress Reviews Ten Car Mat Sets

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Auto Express have published their review of 10 four-piece sets of car mats. 'The Sakura Premium and Halfords Fully Tailored sets were identical in looks, performance and price. You can pick either brand off the shelf with confidence. However, Sakura wins as it has mats specific to our Golf MkV. The high street chain’s £9.99 Carpet Mat Set is a great budget choice – just make sure it will actually fit your vehicle first.'

Read: Car Mats Tested - Auto Express

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August 27, 2008

Makita 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Flashlight for $17.95 @ Amazon

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Amazon.com has the Makita 18-Volt Lithium-Ion rechargeable flashlight/woklight on offer for $17.95 plus shipping.
Features:
• 18-volt rechargeable flashlight with Xenon bulbs
• Four-position adjustable head allows easy positioning
• Compact design with rubberized grip for easy handling
• Includes a shoulder strap and 2 flashlight Xenon bulbs
• Measures 11-1/8-inches long, weighs .75 pounds; 3-year limited warranty

Source: Amazon

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August 26, 2008

Belkin GoStudio Review - CNET

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CNET have publsihed a review of the Belkin GoStudio handheld audio recorder. 'The GoStudio measures 4 inches wide by 2 inches tall by 7 inches long, making it small enough to hold in one hand, yet too large to fit in your pocket. The large dial on the face of the GoStudio provides a simple way to adjust recording input levels, which are indicated by dual LED meters above the dial. Around the GoStudio's main dial you'll find various switches for channel gain type (high, low, auto, off), mono/stereo modes, limiter activation, low-cut filter, and input source (internal mic, XLR/TRS input, 3.5mm input). A smaller dial for headphone volume is located near the bottom edge of the GoStudio, along with a 3.5mm headphone input, a power switch, and a built-in speaker.'

Read: Belkin GoStudio - CNET

August 25, 2008

Tomtom ONE 3rd Edition GPS Review - ThinkComputers

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A review of the TomTom ONE 3rd Edition Car GPS Navigation System has been posted over at ThinkComputers.org. 'Before you can start using the TomTom One you need to install the software. Installation is pretty simple once you have installed the TomTom software there will probably be an update for the software itself. The newer version of the TomTom software is a lot better and easier to use than the older version that actually comes with the TomTom One.

Like I mentioned before the Canada and US maps are already loaded on the TomTom One, but you probably want to get the updated maps. Before you can download any of the new maps or anything else you need to create a TomTom account, sort of like and iTunes account, because not all of the maps and add-ons for the TomTom are free. When you connect your TomTom One to your computer the software will check for new updates to the things you have installed on your device. Then you can easily install them.'

Read: Tomtom ONE 3rd Edition GPS - ThinkComputers

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August 24, 2008

Kensington Portable Power Outlet Review - The Gadgeteer

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The Gadgeteer have published a review of the Kensington Portable Power Outlet. 'When the module is plugged into a wall outlet, the protection LED on the back side should glow Green to indicate that the surge protection feature is active. If this LED does not light up, that means that you need to replace the module. You can use this device to power your laptop, cameras, and other gadgets that can't charge via USB. To charge your USB enabled devices like phones, iPods, etc., just plug their charging cables into one of the USB power ports. What's nice is the fact that USB devices usually charge faster when they are plugged into a power outlet, instead of into a USB port on your computer or hub.'

Read: Kensington Portable Power Outlet - The Gadgeteer

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August 23, 2008

Pocket Solar Charger Review - BerryReview

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BerryReview have published a review of the Pocket Solar Charger from 100milligrams.com. 'Upon receiving the charger, I notice the box is not like something that you normally see. Imagine, if you will, those funny Chinese metal stress balls (you know, the ones that make a jingling sound when rubbed together). Now throw that thought aside and focus on the box it comes in. It’s a paper-like box, but very sturdy with a magnet that holds the lid to the box. That’s what the charger is shipped in. It’s tucked safely into a foam sleeve for protection on the left side of the box.'

Read: Review: BlackBerry Solar Charger From 100milligrams - BerryReview.com

August 22, 2008

Panasonic Introduces High Rate Lithium Ion Cell – CGR26650A

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Press Release

Features:
• High Rate Lithium Ion technology is lighter and has more power than traditional chemistries: NiMH, NiCd, and Lead Acid.
• Capable of high rate discharges up to 40 Amps 2650 mAH Typical Capacity
• Excellent cycle life
• Nickel Manganese based cathode material provides higher discharge rate and better temperature stability.
• Exclusive Heat Resistant Layer (HRL) technology – a protective layer that provides safer operation.
• High Recharge Rate – most capacity recovered within 20 minutes
• Suitable for multi-cell applications
• Wide Operating Temperature Range

Model Number
CGR26650A

Nominal Voltage(v)
3.6

Typical Capacity(mAh)
2650

Diameter Inch (mm)
1.04 +0/-0.03 (26.5 +0/-0.7)

Height Inch (mm)
2.57 +0/-0.04(65.4 +0/-1.0)

Approx. Weight oz (g)
3.2(90)

Applications:
• Portable Power Tools including cordless drills, impact drivers, saws, high torque wrenches
• Memory Storage with high rate demand
• Back-up Power
• Uninterruptible Power Supply - UPS
• Medical Equipment

Please see the Li Ion page for more information on Panasonic’s Lithium Ion product line. http://www.panasonic.com/industrial/battery/oem/chem/lithion/index.html

In order to ensure the use of properly designed safety circuits with Lithium ion battery packs, Panasonic Li Ion cells are only available from authorized pack assemblers. For information regarding your specific application or an authorized Li Ion pack assembler, please contact Panasonic's technical and sales support: oembatteries@us.panasonic.com or go to our website at www.panasonic.com/batteries.

Panasonic Energy Co. has over 65 years of battery expertise and 25 manufacturing operations in 15 countries including the United States.

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August 21, 2008

Makita'a Powerful New 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Delivers High Torque, More Speed, And More Work

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Press Release

Makita’s new BHP454 is re-engineered for 25% more speed

La Mirada, CA – Makita U.S.A., Inc., manufacturer of high quality industrial power tools and accessories, is proud to announce the release of its new 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit, model BHP454. The new cordless hammer driver-drill adds to Makita’s extensive LXT Series of cordless tools featuring 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery Technology, a breakthrough in cordless that delivers more power, less weight and better engineering. The new BHP454 combines high torque and high speed in a compact cordless package with less weight.

“Makita’s engineers built the new BHP454 faster, with 25 percent more speed in low gear than our previous model,” said Ethan Haughawout, associate product manager – cordless products. “We added more speed, but still maintained our maximum torque of 560 inch-pounds. This high-speed and high-torque combination makes the new BHP454 a true work-horse hammer driver-drill for any serious tradesman.”

The Makita-built 4-pole maximum torque motor delivers 560 in. lbs. of efficient torque. The efficient two-speed design offers plenty of speed (0-400/0-1,700 RPM) and blows-per-minute (0-6,000/0-25,500) for a wide range of drilling, driving and hammering tasks.

The BHP454 comes with a patented Shift-Lock™ drive system that quickly shifts between three modes: “hammer drill”, “driver” and “drill.” Its 2-speed design covers a wide range of drilling and driving applications, allowing the user to carry one tool on the job instead of two. The versatile BHP454 is a great replacement for the standard driver-drill on the job site.

At only 4.9 lbs. and with an ergonomic shape that fits like a glove, the BHP454 is compact with less weight, and is designed for reduced operator fatigue. The BHP454 is also equipped with a built-in twin L.E.D. light that illuminates the work area for more efficient work, single sleeve ½” keyless chuck, a convenient belt clip and bit holder, and an anti-slip rubberized side grip.

Model BHP454 is a kit that includes two 18V LXT Lithium-ion (3.0 Ah) batteries, 30 minute Rapid Optimum Charger, belt clip, side-handle, depth gauge, 2 double-ended bits (Phillips and slotted) and tool case. The BHP454Z includes the tool only.

Some of this tool’s many applications include fastening medium sized anchors, drilling into masonry, and even setting small sized anchors into concrete. This hammer driver-drill can be utilized in many different areas such as HVAC, residential construction, remodeling, woodworking, plumbing, electrical, and more. It’s ideal for any pro contractor who requires a best-in-class engineered cordless hammer driver-drill.

The BHP454 is powered by Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion Battery Technology and Rapid Optimum Charging System, a breakthrough in cordless technology producing 430% total lifetime work with two-and-a-half times more battery cycles when compared to traditional 18V Ni-Cd batteries. The Rapid Optimum Charger is ENERGY STAR rated for its charging efficiency, and will charge a Makita 3.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery in just 30 minutes.

Model BHP454 is a kit that includes two 18V LXT Lithium-ion (3.0 Ah) batteries, 30 minute Rapid Optimum Charger, belt clip, side-handle, depth gauge, 2 double-ended bits (Phillips and slotted) and tool case. The BHP454Z includes the tool only.

Makita’s 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Series

Since its introduction on October 3, 2005, Makita’s LXT Series featuring 18V Lithium-Ion Battery Technology has been providing the professional end-user with more work solutions. Nearly three years later, with 30 single tool solutions in the LXT Series, Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion battery is a breakthrough in cordless with more power, less weight and better engineering, and Makita is proud to be the first to bring it to jobsites across America.

"Makita did not just design a longer run time battery; we designed a complete tool solution to redefine the way pro users work,” said Ken Hefley, senior vice president marketing, Makita USA. “The LXT solution is all muscle and no fat, with 18 volt power at 12 volt weight. LXT allows the pro user to work longer with a better engineered tool solution."

Makita's new LXT Series has been designed specifically for Lithium-Ion battery technology with less weight in a more compact size. LXT is 40% less weight and more compact. The ergonomic shape fits like a glove with even pressure while adding more control. The LXT Series is also equipped with built-in L.E.D. lights that operate independently from the tool to illuminate the work area.

Makita LXT Lithium-Ion Batteries and Optimum Charging System produce 430% total lifetime work with two-and-a-half times more battery cycles when compared to traditional 18V Ni-Cd batteries. The Optimum Charging System is ENERGY STAR rated for its efficient charging process. Makita's LXT Lithium-Ion batteries provide the pro user with many benefits, including 1,400 battery life cycles, longer run time, 40% less weight, five-times lower self-discharge to keep cells active and ready to use any time, a built-in memory chip to communicate with the Optimum Charger for more work, built-in shock absorbing features to protect the battery, and sixteen firm-holding contact terminals for constant high power. The battery works in conjunction with the Optimum Charger during the charging process for a more efficient charge and maximum battery life.

The new Rapid Optimum Charger communicates with the LXT battery throughout the charge cycle using the built-in memory chip in the battery and the built-in CPU chip in the charger to recognize the history and battery condition to select the optimal charging method. The optimal charging method uses Active 3 Controls for current control, thermal control and voltage control. The charger has a built-in fan to cool the battery to produce more lifetime work.

Makita has better technology with a new smart Battery Diagnostic System (sold separately) that enables users to understand the battery condition to maximize battery life. This new system is ideal for large pro and industrial users with many batteries. This system is able to indicate how the battery was used and can optimally refresh each cell for more lifetime work, determine the battery life expectancy based on how many times the battery has been charged or gone through a cycle and can log each battery to keep a permanent record.

Makita has also added compact cordless power tools to its line of Lithium-Ion products, and they are unique in both appearance and performance: The 18V Compact Lithium-Ion (1.5Ah) battery weighs just .85 lbs. and reaches a full charge in only 15 minutes, four times faster than the competition. The compact battery combined with the compact design of the tools delivers a superior power-to-weight ratio. These compact tools – including the ½” Compact Driver Drill (BDF452HW) – feature a new black and white exterior design, distinguishing these compact cordless models from Makita’s familiar teal-colored top-of-the-line cordless product in the LXT Series.

Makita’s newest compact products are powered by a 10.8V Lithium-Ion battery. These lower-voltage products clearly have a place in Makita’s series of Lithium-Ion cordless tools.

“Makita’s Lithium-Ion platform is not solely focused on 18V power, as evidenced by the recent launch of our 10.8V Lithium-Ion ultra-compact tools,” said Brad Wheeler, product manager – cordless products. “Makita applies power, precision and compact design to every tool it makes, and these same qualities have been built into the new 10.8V Lithium-Ion 2-speed driver-drill and impact driver. These ultra-compact tools have been engineered for trades that require professional power and quality in a convenient size.”

The new 10.8V products fill a need for Lithium-Ion battery power in an ultra-compact size. They are positioned as a first step into the Lithium-Ion battery platform from older battery technologies.

“For those pros using 9.6 and 12 volt tools every day - and there are many of them - Makita’s new ultra-compact 10.8V Lithium-Ion line of tools is a great way to step into Makita and into the superior advantages of Makita Lithium-Ion power.” said Wheeler. “These tools come in handy for so many lighter duty jobs out there. Every tool box should have one."

Warranty
Makita LXT Lithium-Ion is backed by Makita’s new Three-Year Warranty which covers repair due to defective materials or workmanship up to three years from the purchase date.

About Makita USA
Makita is a leading manufacturer of over 450 professional, industrial quality power tools and has over 2,000 industrial accessories. Makita’s new, innovative 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Power Tool Series has a three-year limited warranty and all Makita tools are covered by a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship and may be serviced at any of our 25 factory service centers or by more than 1,000 authorized service centers nationwide. Makita USA, Inc.’s home office is located in La Mirada, California and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please contact us at 1-800-4-MAKITA (1-800-462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com.

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August 20, 2008

LENOX® Introduces the DIAMOND™ Hole Saw The Fast, Long-Lasting Solution for Making Holes

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Press Release

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. LENOX®, a leading manufacturer of premium power tool accessories, hand tools, torches, solder and band saw blades, announces the introduction of the LENOX DIAMOND™ Hole Saw specifically designed for cutting tile, stone and glass. The diamond edge extends the life of the blade which allows it to make more holes before replacement.

The LENOX DIAMOND hole saw was designed using a unique brazing process to apply the diamond cutting edge. The brazed diamond edge reduces the grab that can occur when cutting hard materials. The diamond brazed edge also requires less cutting pressure, therefore reducing premature wear to the saw’s edge. This also eliminates damage or cracking of expensive materials.

“The design of the LENOX DIAMOND hole saw goes the extra mile to last longer without cracking or damaging the material,” stated Anna Whitton, Product Manager, LENOX. “This, in-turn reduces the time and effort needed to get the job done right.”

Unlike other hole saws on the market, the new LENOX DIAMOND Hole Saw is designed with a thinner wall thickness that reduces any airborne dust particles. The thin kerf width removes less material; therefore in the case of cordless tools, you get more life out of each charge of the battery.

The new LENOX DIAMOND Hole Saw is sold through electrical, plumbing, HVAC and industrial distributors nationwide. To learn more, or to find your nearest distributor, call 1-800-628-8810

August 19, 2008

Lawn Aerators: Spike-shoes facilitate DIY lawn care

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Strap on the lawn aerator shoes/sandals available from Improvements and aerate your lawn while walking over the grass. 'Lawn aerators help create healthy lawns. Without lawn aerators, the grass roots can knot up and fail to grow vertically into the soil. Lawn grass can become vulnerable to worms and insects if not properly aerated. Lawns that are not aerated also become susceptible to dandelions or crabgrass. With lawn aerators, a walk across your grass will rejuvenate your yard. Cultivate the lush green lawn your neighbors will envy by walking around your yard in lawn aerator shoes/sandals.' Price $12.99

Source: ImprovementsCatalog.com

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August 18, 2008

Lock-grip Pliers Tested - Auto Express

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Auto Express have published their review of twelve sets of lock grip pliers. 'Ideally a set should have at least four pairs of pliers with flat, curved and long nose jaws, as well as one compact tool. To test their mettle, we tried to loosen wheel nuts tightened to various torques. After these tests, we made sure the adjuster screws still worked perfectly – as threads on some can fail after hard usage. Extra points were awarded for those supplied with cases or wallets, wide opening jaws on the larger tools and overall performance from the wire cutter.'

Read: Lock-grip Plier Test - Auto Express

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August 17, 2008

Bosch PS30: Powerful compact drill/driver delivers 220 inch-pounds of torque

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Bosch Power Tools and Accessories have introduced the Bosch PS30 12V Max Litheon(TM) Drill/Driver which weighs 2.4 lb and comes equipped with 3/8 in. 3-jawed chuck and 2-speed drivetrain that delivers 400-1,100 rpm. 'The PS30 Two-Speed Ultra-Compact Drill/Driver comes with two 12V Max Litheon batteries, a 30-minute quick charger and a sturdy canvas carrying bag. The PS30 is covered by Bosch's standard cordless power tool warranty and is eligible to be registered in the Bosch ProVantage Protection Plan. It will be available through authorized Bosch distributors nationwide this fall.'

Read: New Bosch PS30 Drill Driver Packs Power, Pro Features into Lightweight Package - Thomas Net

August 16, 2008

Review: Akasa Libra Notebook Cooler - Pocket-Lint

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A review of the lightweight Akasa Libra notebook cooler has been posted over at Pocket-Lint. 'Running a notebook for any length of time will soon have it getting warm to the touch, so if you have a large machine, or an older one that tends to get hot rather quickly, one way of cooling it down and therefore prolonging its life is to slip a notebook cooler underneath. This solution from Akasa will easily house that 15.4-inch machine, as well as larger models if you have one. It's made from aluminium, so it weighs less than 1kg, so if you wanted to you could carry it around with you.'

Read: Akasa Libra notebook cooler review - Pocket-Lint

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August 15, 2008

Review: Archos GPS In-Car Holder - ZDNet

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ZDNet have published a review of the Archos GPS in-car holder for the 605 Wi-Fi portable video player. 'Constructed mostly of black plastic, the Archos GPS in-car holder isn't much to look at. The holder uses an adjustable arm and high-grade suction cup to attach to the inside of your car's windshield, while jawlike clamps keep your Archos 605 WiFi secured. Powering the Archos GPS in-car holder requires an included adapter cable that runs from the side of the cradle to your car's cigarette lighter, which can be a messy proposition depending on your car's design. A second, shorter cable connects from the Archos 605 WiFi's dock plug to the bottom of the GPS holder.'

Read: Archos GPS in-car holder - ZDNet

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August 14, 2008

New Seiko Instruments Mobile Printer Targets Budget-Conscious Wireless Users

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Press Release

Torrance, CA, - Seiko Instruments USA Inc. (SIU) Thermal Printer Division, http://www.siiprinters.com, a globally recognized leader in thermal printer technology, has introduced a low-cost direct thermal mobile printer for wireless applications. The compact and lightweight DPU-S445 runs on a long-life lithium-ion battery and produces 4" wide printed output at 90 mm/sec. IrDA and Bluetooth® connectivity options make the printer a valuable alternative for users who need convenience and reliability, without the high price of a ruggedized device.

"The DPU-S445 is a welcome addition to our lineup of mobile thermal printers," said Kaz Onishi, Vice President and General Manager, Seiko Instruments USA. "The new printer offers customers exceptional value in a challenging business climate, and is a great fit for budget-conscious users in Latin America and other emerging markets."

With no need for toner or ribbon, and with very few moving parts to compromise reliability, thermal printers are a must-have for a growing number of untethered applications, from route accounting to mobile citations. The DPU-S445 is designed for fast, simple, no-fuss operation. Two well-placed buttons control power and paper feed, and the Seiko Instruments EZ-OP™ clamshell-style tray enables quick paper replacement, by simply dropping a new roll into the printer.

Weighing in at just over one pound and measuring 5.7 inches wide, 5.3 inches deep, and 2.3 inches high, the DPU-S445 is both small and light. The printer offers 203 dpi resolution, for crystal clear printout, and USB, Serial, IrDA, and optional Bluetooth interfaces, making it a perfect solution for a wide range of mobile applications. Pricing starts at $300 per unit.

About Seiko Instruments Inc.
Seiko is one of the most recognized business brands in the world, embodying innovative design and manufacturing excellence for precision technology. As a member of the Seiko Group, Seiko Instruments Inc. (SII) builds on this exceptional reputation.

Founded in 1937, SII manufactures and markets electronic components, thermal and specialty printers, consumer electronics, communication and network technology, scientific instrumentation, and precision manufacturing technology. SII now has a global presence of more than 8,000 employees worldwide.

Information about Seiko Instruments kiosk printers, mobile printers, portable desktop printers, and thermal printer mechanisms can be found at www.siiprinters.com.

August 13, 2008

Makita 18V Cordless LXT Lithium-Ion 1/2" Driver-Drill Kit (Tool Only) for $109.95 @ CPO Makita