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Must-Have Gadgets for the Office

The world is changing. We’re waist-deep in an electronic revolution; but in a world of mobile technology with information being shared all around us, what technological innovations can we use to keep us sane in the office?

USB-powered Personal Humidifier

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Dry air can become a problem for people, especially in office buildings that recycle air. The static that builds up isn’t exactly good for computers or printers, either. Fortunately, the solution comes in the form of an attractive gadget that takes up very little desk space. The USB-powered Personal Humidifier, available at Solutions.com, plugs into any USB port to provide four pleasant hours of humidity. If someone forgets to turn the Personal Humidifier off, not a problem. It turns itself off after two hours or if the 4-ounce tank runs empty. The best part is the Personal Humidifier is small enough to take anywhere. Just pack the USB-powered Personal Humidifier in an overnight bag or computer bag and go.

Build-On Brick Mug

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Coffee is a must to get through those early morning hours, endless phone calls, and tedious office meetings. The problem is what to do with the hands? What to do to keep from drifting off? The Build-On Brick Mug just might have the answer. Available at ThinkGeek, the Build-On Brick Mug is a 12-ounce hot drink holder perfect for coffee, tea, and keeping boredom at bay. This unique mug works with bricks from LEGO, PixelBlocks, and K’NEX Bricks, to name just a few. The potential to build on the mug is unlimited. The only downside is it’s not dishwasher safe! However, BPA-free and versatile, the Build-On Brick Mug can deliver the coffee and the entertainment.

Portal 2 Sentry Turret USB Desk Defender

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Entertainment at the office comes in many forms, especially when encouraging those loiterers to move on. Video Game fans and will love the Portal 2 Sentry Turret USB Desk Defender. It’s not only cute (in a futuristic, dystopian kind of way), but also a rather effective desk protector. Equipped with a motion detector, this little gadget opens up its wings when anyone comes near and shoots – harmless little remarks such as “I see you” and “Target acquired”. The Portal 2 Sentry, available at ThinkGeek, will even respond if it is knocked over or moved, stating anything from “I don’t hate you’ to “Malfunctioning” and more. If no one picks the Portal 2 Sentry up within 30 seconds of being knocked over, the entertaining gadget asks, “Are you still there?” It may not actually encourage loiters to stay away from one’s desk, but it will certainly entertain them.

Une Bobine

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Most people today can barely stand to be away from their mobile phones, yet trying to complete any task on the phone while syncing or charging is nothing short of a royal pain. The biggest problem is trying to see the screen from odd angles. That isn’t the case anymore, not with the Une Bobine, available from [Fuse]Chicken. The Une Bobine is a rather handy phone stand that comes with a 24” gooseneck metal casing allowing the user to angle the phone for a better screen view while charging or syncing. Need more length? A USB extension does the job, and if the Une Bobine is too long, the Petite Bobine is only 12” long. Now charging or syncing the phone at the office while viewing the screen is not only easy, but convenient.

BOSS Lamps

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Those late nights at work are tedious enough without trying to find enough space on a desk for a light. What’s worse is the eternal search for another power outlet or just one more USB port. Imagine if all three came in one convenient, kind of quirky, and very vintage package. Look no further, the BOSS Lamp is here. This interesting little desk lamp, available through Etsy, uses a 40 watt MAX type B13 bulb, comes with 2 USB ports, a 15 amp plug, and takes up no more than a few inches of desk space. The plug is not meant for any appliances, most particularly not a heating device, but works just fine with portable electronic devices such as laptops. Undeniably a conversation starter, the BOSS lamp makes those late nights just a little more bearable.

This article was supplied by Joe Shervell for www.officefurnitureexpress.co.uk.

  

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WATCH THIS!

Google Glass not welcome in Las Vegas?

Get ready for the Google Glass and camera revolution. We’re entering a new phase of the mobile technology revolution where everything around us or everything we observe can be recorded. We’ve seen how powerful video can be with people pulling out their smart phones when something happens, but with Google Glass and other devices that can constantly record what’s around you we’ve reached a new level.

Not surprisingly, casinos, hotels and other establishments in places like Las Vegas aren’t really thrilled about this prospect and are looking to ban the use of Google Glass. When you consider how this can impact casino gambling and help cheaters you immediately understand their concern. The casino gaming culture has changed somewhat over the years as casinos have proliferated outside of Las Vegas to America’s heartland and with all of the easy online options like www.ladbrokes.com, but certain things like security never change when there’s so much money at stake. Google Glass and similar devices like sunglasses with tiny cameras change all that.

But in Las Vegas it goes even further. Remember the adage that “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas?” Well that whole idea is threatened as well as more and more aspects of life in Sin City can be recorded by visitors. In some ways this protects the patrons from themselves. Think about it – do you really want a video out there documenting your drunken weekend with the guys if you’re married or have a girlfriend? You can cause a lot of trouble by breaking out Google Glass during a bachelor or bachelorette party.

This of course extends beyond Las Vegas as well, as these cameras threaten privacy everywhere. Tools like Google Glass will open up huge possibilities for productivity and fun, but like with every great technological leap will also raise tons of questions as society adapts. Expect this to be a huge issue in the coming years.

  

Smartphone wars heat up

The war between the iPhone and the Galaxy gets a twist as Windows Phone Nokia Lumia 920 enters the market and wins the Engadget Reader’s Choice Smartphone of the Year award.

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Best Smartphones for Watching Movies

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Sometimes in today’s hectic world, finding the time to catch up on movie watching can be rather difficult. However, with the appropriate model of smartphone, you can watch movies anywhere you go. Certain smartphones have design features that make them better options for movie watching. When comparing the different models, screen size and resolution were important considerations as well as the processor built into the device.

Samsung’s Galaxy Note is a mammoth smartphone almost bordering on tablet status. The screen display measures 5.3 inches and is in high definition. Given its size, it makes it a bit awkward to carry in your pocket like other smartphones. However, the Note is only of the best for watching a movie while on the go.

The HTC One X is another smartphone that will work well for movie watching. The phone has a sleek design and moves quickly. The 4.7 inch screen, while smaller then the Galaxy Note, is still larger than other smartphones. Some report that the battery may not keep its charge as long as hoped.

Another smartphone that can work well for playing back movies is Sony’s Xperia S. This particular phone comes with solid hardware and is highly recommended for users who love their multimedia. The high definition screen measures 4.3 inches. Again, like the One X, the battery life with this phone is average but the other features outweigh this drawback.

The Samsung Galaxy Nexus is another option when looking for a phone to watch movies on. With Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich operating system, the Nexus handles movie playback well. Its screen measures 4.65 inches which provides a generous viewing screen.

If you’re shopping for a bargain smartphone and know movie viewing is something you will use your device for, then consider one of these phones. you can compare offers at Phones 4 U to get the best deal available.

  

Monkey Kit: Flexible Tablet Positioning System

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I love my iPad and tablets in general. The ability to watch TV shows or movies on planes or while I’m working out on the treadmill is one of the best tech developments I can think of. Tablets offer maximum flexibility to enjoy content, and now we have a gadget accessory that makes it even easier to use your tablet.

The Monkey Kit available at BiteMyApple.co is a great accessory for anyone who uses their tablet or even their smart phone often, whether at home or in places like the gym. The flexible arm lets you set up your tablet almost anywhere, and it easily attaches to the back of your tablet. You can also just leave the spherical portion of you want to rest your tablet on your desk or table with slight elevation.

Basically, the Monkey Kit holds your tablet so you don’t have to. Holding the tablet is probably the only complaint you’ll ever hear, so this gadget can make things even easier for you. Also, with Father’s Day coming up, it offers a cool and unique gift idea as well.

  

NuForce HP-800 headphones

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We’ve reviewed many headphones over the past several years as the popularity of mobile music continues to explode and more consumers look at their headphones as a fashion statement along with being a necessary gadget. We’ve seen many fashionable designs and impressive-sounding headphones, but the NuForce HP-800 headphones stand out for sound quality. That shouldn’t be surprising, as these headphones were designed for the audio enthusiasts. The sound quality was incredibly clear but never harsh. You can pick up various all of the nuances while really feeling the full base. The goal was to capture the “natural warmth, realistic highs and visceral bass” of the recordings and we feel that has been achieved.

These over-ear headphones are very large and comfortable, with ear cups made with a “human-protein” leatherette covering that is super-soft. It comes with a handy clothe carrying case along with one cord for you portable electronics and another for studio use. Yes, audiophiles can use this with premium audio or studio equipment and be very impressed with the sound quality.

Specifications include:

Driver Size: 40mm
Impedance: 32 +/- 15% Ohm
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Rated Power: 20 mW
Max. Input Power: 30 mW
Sensitivity: 91 +/- 4 dB
Included Accessories: One carrying bag, one 3.5mm plug cable, one 6.3mm plug cable

The bar was set high for these headphones, and the goal was met while keeping the MSRP at a very affordable $149. If you love music that sounds great then you have to check these out, and they make the perfect gift for Father’s Day as well.

  

AXE Philips Norelco Shave & Groom Kit

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As more guys start paying attention to body grooming, the number of shaving gadgets in our bathrooms is starting to multiply. Now we have Axe and Norelco teaming up for a new product exclusively available at Walmart – the AXE Philips Norelco Shave & Groom Kit.

It’s basically two groomers in one as it has two heads that click on and off. First it has a traditional Norelco shaver that gives you the comfortable and close shaves you’ve come to expect from Norelco. But then that snaps off and you can replace it with skin-friendly bodygroomer head and length comb. This you can use to groom or shave different parts of your body to make the ladies happy.

The shaver is cordless and you can use it as a wet or dry shaver, so it’s very flexible. The only quibble we had is that it doesn’t come with a carrying case, but this offers a ton of value for all the features. We tried it out and it worked perfectly for all our needs.

So check this out as it can be the perfect shaving gadget for your all your needs. Remember, in today’s world grooming everywhere is expected! It also makes a great gift with Father’s Day around the corner.

  

App of the Week: Slayin

Developer: Pixel Licker Games

Compatible with: iPhone (optimized for iPhone 5), iPod Touch, and iPad

Requires: iOS 4.3 or later

Price: $0.99

Available here

“Slayin” is an app that wears its retro gaming heart on its sleeve. You don’t have to look hard to spot its influences from games like “Castlevania,” “Ghosts and Goblins,” “Metal Slug,” “Mega Man,” and more, yet “Slayin” is also unique. It touts its gameplay as the first endless action RPG, in that you are constantly moving, constantly battling, and constantly trying to level up and improve yourself through statistical upgrades and better equipment.

Mix those notions of nostalgic ideology and brand new mobile gameplay together, and it’s like tasting peanut butter and chocolate together for the first time. Yes, “Slayin” is basically the Reeses of the app world, yet infinitely more filling.

“Slayin” tasks you with choosing between three character classes (the strong knight, the ability loaded wizard, and the dual sword wielding knave) and embarking on a timeless quest to slay a dragon, and all other minions and bosses along the way. While all the classes have their own unique abilities and progression systems, they are all bound to the very simple play style which has you constantly moving in a small area, and shifting your direction left and right as you work to destroy everything in your path.

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It may be simple, but it works so, so well. “Slayin” refers to itself as the first of its kind, and its uniquely relentless and dangerously addictive style certainly feels the part. Once you quickly adapt to the flow of “Slayin,” you’ll find yourself in that great zen like state a game can provide, where your actions seem to occur a fraction of a second before you even think them. You’ll need those extra quick reactions, as “Slayin” borrows its difficulty from many of those titles that influenced it, though I’m happy to report that the challenge is one based of skill over trial and error for the most part.

While more of an action game than an RPG, those role playing elements still shine in “Slayin,” especially when it comes to its upgrade system. As mentioned, each character type has their own upgrades and equipment available, which the game cleverly lets you purchase without much break in the action courtesy of an appearing shop keeper. Thankfully, the vast majority of your purchases are made with in-game currency, and the additional in-app purchases available are mostly novelty items that in no way are necessary for your completion, or enjoyment, of the game.

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Where “Slayin” really hits it out of the park, though, is in that retro style. Apply this concept to any other form, and it just wouldn’t have worked as well as it does here in a hybrid world of 8 and 16 bit video game design. There isn’t a visual or audio element that doesn’t harken back to that time, and yet “Slayin” also adds just enough of its own style to those elements to feel fresh. This is particularly evident in the music (done by one of the same guys who did “Retro City Rampage”) where a few notes will remind you of certain classic games, yet the score itself is more of a unique entrant into the field than a mere tribute.

There are games out there without a fraction of the addictive nature and charm of “Slayin” that are still great. “Slayin” is a title that focuses on the advantages of the mobile platform, and uses every single one of them to craft an experience that is a feast for the eyes, ears, mind, and hands. It’s a twitch based actioner with equal measures of looks and heart, as well as a surprising amount of depth.

If you ever want to see and experience the design pinnacle of a three button game, then you need “Slayin.” As I type this, I just want to jump back into it’s one more play world that inevitably stretches on for hours, so let me wrap this up quickly by crowning “Slayin” the unquestioned app of the week.

  

So You Want To Be A Pilot

Becoming a certified pilot is a challenging but rewarding process. Once you get your pilot license you will probably want to spend as much time in the air as possible. The freedom and excitement of soaring high above everything else does wonders for the mind and soul. But before you climb above the clouds you will want to make sure you have a few air plane and pilot accessories to fly with.

A quality GPS system is highly important for direction and location when you are flying. You can find a Garmin aera 500 Portable Aviation GPS for around $699. It has a fingertip navigation, and touch screen capabilities as well we the ability to smoothly transition from a motoring GPS to a flying GPS. The lithium-ion battery it runs on will last up to 5 hours and it can log up to the 30 most recent flights. You can go a little higher end on a GPS system like the Garmin aera 796 Aviation, but it will run you up to $2,749.

Depending on the type of flying you plan on doing you may be reaching high altitudes which can be risky to your breathing and other health functions. Carrying a small oximeter can help you monitor your vitals so you don’t risk getting sick, or passing out. The Oxi-Go Pro Pulse Oximeter is a lightweight affordable meter to monitor your blood oxygen saturation and heart rate during your high altitude flights. It is easy to read with high resolution OLED displays and has six different display modes for reading, along with almost a dozen brightness settings to make sure you can easily see it as you fly through any environment.

Skygeek Headsets are also important for maintaining contact and communication with other pilots, or traffic controllers and ground crew operators. The Sennheiser HMEC 250 headset is affordable and popular and can be found for less than $500. The Sennheiser is ideal for general flying atmospheres and is equipped with NoiseGard 2.0 noise reduction technology. Its features include amazing transmission quality for communication clarity, good passive attenuation, talk-through function allowing for direct communication within the cockpit, and a unique collapsible design for saving space.

For under $70 pilots can purchase an ASA CX-2 Pathfinder to help them calculate true airspeed, ground speed, Mach number, altitudes, fuel, headings and courses, and so much more. The Pathfinder is an electronic flight computer with a library of 34 functions giving pilots access to 40 aviation calculations, including weight and balance. This includes calculating time/speed/distance, winds, headwind/crosswind component, and gliding information. It has a large LCD screen that is easy to read and fast display prompts for easy use.

Becoming an aviator for recreation, or a profession can really be a lot of fun. But you have to be prepared for virtually any flight and in-air flying situation. With gadgets and accessories like these you may not be able to predict every possible situation, but you can be able to be prepared and survive it.

  

ReF over ear headphones from iLuv

We tried out these stylish new ReF headphones from iLuv and were very impressed. We love the styling and the white stitching, and along with the black version picture above the headphones also come in red, white and blue. Check out their website for a look at the other colors. If you’re looking for a last-minute holiday gift you can’t go wrong with these headphones. The styling make these headphones a great option for anyone, as they’ll fit into an urban setting or even a more professional setting with the slick but classy design.

While styling is important, we’re happy to report that the sound quality is excellent and the headphones are very comfortable. Other impressive features include the braided fabric 1.2 meter cord, Titanium diaphragm for mega-bass and precise treble, in-line remote with play/pause, volume, and track change controls and built-in mic with hands-free. The earphones are also collapsible for ultra-portability.

  

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