Archive for August, 2008
JBL On Stage IIIP
JBL took the opportunity to roll out its high-performance loudspeaker docking station at IFA 2008 - the JBL On Stage IIIP. This dock works great with the new iPhone 3G, offering outstanding functionality as well as crisp audio without compromising on design. Judging by JBL’s pedigree in the past, I have full confidence that the On Stage IIIP will not disappoint if you’re happy with its predecessors. Each purchase will come with an IR remote control that makes it a snap to navigate through your iPod/iPhone. Just in case you’re one of the rare few who do not rock on to an iPhone/iPod, the On Stage IIIP comes with a mini stereo jack that is compatible with other devices.
Source: AVing
Draganflyer X6
I’m not too sure if the Draganflyer X6 was not spelt properly on purpose, but whatever it is, the name isn’t really more important compared to what the Draganflyer X6 offers.
The Draganflyer X6 is a remotely operated, unmanned, miniature helicopter designed to carry wireless video cameras and still cameras. Operate the Draganflyer X6 helicopter with the easy to use handheld controller while viewing what the helicopter sees through video glasses. The Draganflyer X6 helicopter uses a unique 6-rotor design refined from an original concept that has been under development since early 2006. The Draganflyer X6 helicopter uses 11 sensors and thousands of lines of code to self-stabilize during flight. This means the Draganflyer X6 is easier to fly than any other helicopter in its class. The Draganflyer X6 on-board software is the result of extensive testing and development. The Draganflyer X6 helicopter is a revolutionary reconnaissance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV); it can be transported in a 5.5″ diameter tube slung over the users back while always being ready to launch immediately. Fly it over hills to get a safe view of what is on the other side.
I think for the layman, most of them will use it for less altruistic purposes such as spying on the enemy.
Machine gun bullet USB flash drive
Just when you think USB flash drives all come in extremely boring rectangular designs, along comes the machine gun bullet USB flash drive that will definitely more than just a passing glance. Inside the machine gun bullet case holds 1GB of storage space, but unfortunately you won’t be able to impress anyone any time soon since this is not commercially available just yet. How much do you think this ghetto-looking USB flash drive will cost if it actually hits the market?
Source: Gearfuse
El ZULO caters for sleepyheads
El ZULO means “the hideout” in Spanish, and one look at it will tell you why. The design is a brainchild of Frank Ehners as part of his industrial design project at the Halle University of Art and Design in Germany. It targets an office environment, but somehow it looks more suitable for high-powered executives who return home after a long day at the office. El ZULO caters for multiple users, relying on fingerprints to identify the right person, automatically adjusting itself to cater to the back, knee, foot and head positions accordingly. Hopefully this power napping device of the future will be manufactured soonest possible for all the zombie-like workers worldwide.
Source: American Inventor Spot
Remote Controlled Hovering Space Surfer
Looks a whole lot like Boba Fett to me at first glance, this Remote Controlled Hovering Space Surfer.
This is the remote controlled 9″ space surfer that hovers in the air, spins 360, and moves left, right, forward, and backward - all while levitating parallel to the ground. Capable of indoor or outdoor flights, the space surfer has dual propellers that generate enough thrust to send the device from a stationary position to 66-feet in the air without requiring a hand-launch. The radio frequency remote control has proportional throttle and trim settings that allow it to be precisely controlled through climbs, descents, and turns. Made from durable EPP foam, the aircraft’s body withstands turbulent flights and crash landings. Pre-assembled and ready to fly, the device is powered by a rechargeable battery that recharges via the included AC adapter.
The Remote Controlled Hovering Space Surfer will come with a 27 foot range remote and is powered by a 9-volt battery. The theory of diminishing returns applies here - it takes 70 minutes to charge, and yet offers just a quarter of an hour’s worth of R&R time. You can pick it up for $89.95.
USB Monkey Optical Mouse
If you’re a fan of cute cartoons and comics, then perhaps the USB Monkey Optical Mouse is right up your alley. I wouldn’t use this for anything more than ordinary work though, since gaming is out of the question with a relatively low resolution of 800 dpi. It connects via USB and does not take the wireless route, but I would say that you could snag the heart of that hot new secretary with something as cute as this gift. The USB Monkey Optical Mouse will come in blue or pink colors, retailing for $16 each.
The SNES Controller that is 40in long and works
If you’re tired of using your Wii to get a workout, you might try something a bit bigger. This SNES controller is fully functioning and 40in long. Which means you’re going to have to work a little harder to get through all of your favorite classic games. Having to reach that far across and effectively press down on the buttons would probably prove to be more challenging. If you look closely you can see the normal sized SNES lying on the enlarged version. Which only makes this giant reproduction look even bigger.
Logitech Squeezebox Boom
When it comes to audio, trust Swiss maestros Logitech to know what they’re doing. This time round, the company has decided to unleash the new Squeezebox Boom all-in-one network music player upon us, boasting an integrated amplifier accompanied by high-performance speakers as well as a simplified setup. Logitech aims to simplify the wireless music experience in your home with the Squeezebox Boom, and prides itself in being the CD player of the 21st century, although I thought that the iPod has by far and large already beat Logitech to that moniker for a long time already.