Tech Toys

Get Up and Go

by Alexandra Kirkman

Spanking-new innovations that provide lots of options for work and play.

HP iPAQ 910 Series Business Messenger
This 3G smartphone, a brand-new release from HP, is designed for maximum mobile productivity. It uses tri-band UMTS/HSDPA and quad-band GSM/GPRS/ EDGE wireless technology that lets you make calls and access the Internet from around the world, while integrated Bluetooth and WiFi wireless technology make connectivity a cinch. It also features the recently released Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system for familiar Windows computer applications, built-in GPS, and a 3-megapixel camera, as well as Cyberon Voice Commander and HP Voice Reply features for hands-free emailing and other device commands. The only thing missing is the kitchen sink. $499. (www.hp.com)

Polaroid PoGo
Polaroid, known for its iconic instant camera that was long a mainstay at office parties everywhere, leaps into the digital age with the launch of this pocket-sized, inkless digital photo printer. Weighing eight ounces and measuring about the size of a deck of cards, it spits out 2” x 3” full-color photos wirelessly from Bluetoothenabled cell phones and via PictBridge (the industry standard for direct USB printing from digital cameras to photo printers — no computer required), in less than 60 seconds. This state-of-the-art printer uses ZINK Photo Paper, a colorless paper full of dye crystals that are heat-activated (a 30-pack costs $9.99). How cool is that? $149. (www.thenewinstant.com)

Balanzza Digital Luggage Scale
Given the ballooning fees being charged to travelers by the airlines for excess and oversize baggage (and, in some cases, any baggage at all), knowing how much your bags weigh can save you money wasted on excess surcharges and keep you from frantically redistributing your belongings in the check-in line at the airport. It reads in pounds or kilograms and holds up to 100 pounds; simply attach the sturdy Balanzza strap to your luggage, use the handle to lift your bag, and wait until you hear the beep indicating that the weight has been registered and stored on the display. Unlike other luggage scales, there are no hooks to wrestle with, and the indication beep makes it easier to use and read. Portable and weighing just 10 ounces, it’s easy to take along on that next souvenir-laden vacation. Requires two AAA batteries. $24.99. (www.balanzza.com)

Neuros OSD
Tired of staring with contempt at those giant piles of VHS tapes and DVDs plopped helter-skelter next to your TV? This amazing gizmo lets you archive and organize content from DVDs, VHS tapes, home movies and TV programs in one place, using a memory card or USB storage device. Just plug the Neuros OSD into your TV, connect your DVD player or VCR, hit “play,” and presto, your movies will be safely transferred into your own personal digital library with no playing restrictions. Recordings are saved in MPEG-4 format, so you can transfer them easily to your iPod, iPhone, or smartphone to watch on the go. You can even plug your video camera straight into the OSD to digitize your memories — no PC required. $179. (www.neurostechnology.com)