description: Samsung's high-definition-ready HL-P5685W offers a broad, 56-inch screen in a 16:9 aspect ratio and a unique pedestal mount whose lightweight design and slim stature lets it fit where other stands won't. But it offers more than just quantity of screen: it's also engineered for quality.
The secret to this DLP (Digital Light Processing) projection set's quality is its Emmy-winning technology from Texas Instruments. Samsung has combined its proprietary Cinema Smooth Gen 4 HD light engine and advanced optic enhancements with a single, .8-inch Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) capable of generating high-definition video images with film-like resolution, deep blacks, and robust colors. Samsung's Cinema Smooth light engine enhances brightness while ensuring an astonishing 2,500:1 contrast ratio.
Texas Instruments' DMD panel is immune to the factors that can cause other displays to deteriorate with use, imparting a longer life expectancy than that of cathode ray tube (CRT) sets, plasma display panels, and liquid crystal display systems (LCD, LCoS, HTPS). A host of advanced digital interfaces and video inputs make non-issues of connectivity challenges and future proofing.
The HL-P5685W's automatic digital-format conversion system converts any input (whether DTV, analog TV, or XGA computer sources at 1080i, 720p, 480p, or 480i) to a progressive, 16:9 widescreen image with a 1,280 x 720 pixel count. A 3D Y/C digital comb filter dramatically reduces image-edge artifacts while improving transition detail, and the set's HD ultra-fine-pitch (.155 mm) screen further clarifies images, especially when you're viewing high-resolution sources like DVD and HDTV.
Samsung's Cinema Smooth Film Mode 3:2 Pull Down correction circuitry addresses digital distortion in 480i (interlaced) video signals generated from 24 frames-per-second film. Finally, Samsung DNIe video enhancer (Digital Natural Image engine) works with all analog NTSC and wideband video signals for improvements in contrast, white level, and picture detail, incorporating digital noise reduction to improve lower-quality sources.
The set offers digital-video inputs in 2 formats. A DVI-HDTV interface with HDCP copy protection permits all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with an analog interface, and an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) jack channels both digital audio and video to simplify connections with newer DTV set-top boxes and DVD players by reducing hookups to just a single cable and plug.
Other inputs include dual HDTV component-video inputs (480i, 480p, 720p, and 1080i) for high-definition satellite receivers, HDTV tuners, and HD cable boxes with component video outputs (Y, Pb, Pr); 3 each composite- and S-video inputs; and 2 RF coaxial inputs for antennas or older VCRs or cable boxes. An audio/video output permits hookup with an external device such as a surround-sound receiver.
A 15-watts-per-channel (x2) audio system with a pair of 2-way speakers comes with built-in SRS TruSurround XT, which simulates compelling surround sound through any stereo playback system, including headphones and the TV's speakers.
Last but far from least, onboard 2-tuner PIP with side-by-side split-screen viewing grants convenient simultaneous viewing of 2 TV programs, while a supplied universal remote control permits control of the TV, a DVD player, a VCR, and a tuner/surround receiver.
What's in the Box TV, pedestal mount, remote control, remote batteries, a user's manual, and warranty information.
comments:
Westinghouse W33001 30" Widescreen LCD Flat Panel HD-Ready TV
Westinghouse W33001 30" Widescreen LCD Flat Panel HD-Ready TV
/Westinghouse Digital Electronics
description: With a DVI terminal for direct-digital connection with PCs and DTV receivers, Westinghouse Digital's W33001 30-inch widescreen LCD television will amaze you with its ability to render sharp, vivid images from standard- and high-definition sources alike. The set's widescreen, 15:9 aspect ratio is specially designed to match the dimensions of your favorite DVD movies and HDTV broadcasts. Customize your viewing with a supplied remote control that lets you switch among multiple sources or change on the fly from widescreen to conventional (4:3 aspect ratio) viewing.
The 1,280 x 768-pixel W33001 features an ultrathin, 8.5-inch profile with a 170-degree viewing angle that makes it possible to view a clear picture from almost anywhere in the room--perfect for gatherings and family movie nights. The TV is compatible with everything from standard 480i to 480p, 720p, and full 1080i HD pictures (built-in image scaling adjusts 1080i signals to match the set's 768 horizontal lines).
Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p or 720p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts.
LCD screens offer a number of benefits over CRT monitors and televisions, including general ease of use, freedom from eye strain (no screen flickering or radiation emissions), quiet operation (no high-pitch "flyback" noise, an issue with CRT TVs), image geometry (no curvature distortion or susceptibility to magnetic interference from, say, speakers), screen life (no risk of image burn-in), space savings, and light weight/easy positioning.
The W33001's exceptional 16 millisecond response time (the time it takes the screen's pixels to update themselves with fresh data) delivers crisp images for fast-action moving video and video games. The set also displays the broadest possible range of colors and--with its 500 cd/m2 brightness--produces vibrant images in almost any lighting condition.
Westinghouse Digital's advanced, two-tuner PIP (picture-in-picture) functions give you everything from mixed-mode PIP for watching TV and working on a PC concurrently to split-screen viewing and the option to resize and relocate the PIP window. PIP abilities even extend to image swap and audio swap, which lets you switch the sound between the PIP and main screens without rearranging the video windows, and a further choice of 4- or 13-window viewing for those times when two screens just isn't enough--like, for instance, on major sports Sundays.
Other connections include an RS-232C control port, component-video (one HD and one SD), composite-video, S-video, RF, and PC (RGB). A headphone jack fosters private listening, and a dedicated subwoofer output lets you enhance your listening with powerful deep bass frequencies. The set's built-in speakers give you stereo audio (with 8 watts per channel) from inputs or broadcast programming. A surround-simulation algorithm produces spacious surround sound from the set's built-in speakers or headphone jack.
What's in the Box TV, remote control, remote batteries, pedestal "feet," and user's manual.
comments: "The Fun Just Starts" It is wonderful with Progressive Scan DVD player, well, not try HDTV yet since need an external HDTV tuner. Just ok with regular Cable TV. It is amazing when connect with my notebook computer. The color and brightness is far much better than my 18" LCD monitor. I need to sale my 18" LCD monitor.
Sound is great with DVD player. Very easy hook-up. It is 30" only, quite fit into a small living room. Pictures are smooth due to 16ms response time. It weighs so less, easily for me to move around. It looks much better when mounted on the wall than stood on it own. The 15:9 makes black bar on top and bottom when watch in wide screen, I like it since the caption or any text just drop into the bottom bar. Remote controller is great in simple and good at layout except the PIP function.
Wall mount is LCFL V200 made by Peerless that is too expensive for this very reasonable priced LCD. The PIP function in that remote controller is not as good as my old Sony 32" 's.
"Great LCD" This is a great LCD TV. The price is great too. DVDs and HDTV show an exceptional picture. The only problems I see are poor manual documentation and Westinghousedigital email support is slow and sometimes will not answer your email questions."Fantastic Value" I just got this TV yesterday and hooked it up to a Pioneer digital cable HD receiver. This TV produces a fantastic picture when driven by a 720P or 1080i signal. I use it in 720P mode. You need a real HD signal to realize the potential of this TV. Discovery HD or HDnet provides suitable content for this TV. HBO and Showtime HD also provide true HD broadcasts several hours a day. Regular NTSC broadcast signals do not look good on this set as with ALL LCD TVs. The only complaint I have is that it only has 1 component input that is capable of handling progressive scan output. The other component input handles 480i only.
description: Sony's PFM-42V1 is a wide screen 42-inch AC-type plasma display, perfect for a wide variety of applications, including information booths, trade shows, video production, HDTV display, home theaters, board rooms, and more. It has a 852 x 480 maximum resolution, which combines with a multi-layer, AR-coated screen, 1.08 mm dot pitch, and 16.8 million colors to provide accurate, easy-to-read onscreen images. The widescreen 16:9 (full), wide zoom (expanded 4:3), letter box, and standard 4:3 display settings give you several aspect ratios to choose from.
Onscreen menus offer access to a variety of display settings, and you can choose between six display languages (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Japanese). The 15-pin D-Sub, RGB, composite video, BNC, 4-pin Mini DIN, and DVI input connectors accept a wide range of input signals including SDTV, HDTV, DVI and RGB computer signals as well as NTSC (North America), PAL (Europe), SECAM (South America), NTSC4.43, PAL60, PAL-N PAL-M, and PAL-N. The AC 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz power supply consumes about 360 W of power during operation, while the internal 7W audio amplifier drives the optional audio speakers. The PFM-42V1 is also compatible with PC and Mac operating systems and is backed by a one year limited warranty.
comments:
Samsung HL-P5085W 50" Widescreen HD-Ready DLP Television with PC Input
Samsung HL-P5085W 50" Widescreen HD-Ready DLP Television with PC Input
/Samsung
description: With its stunning, cutting edge styling and equally stunning high-definition image, Samsung's HL-P5085W is a sight to behold. The DLP projection set offers a broad, 50-inch screen in a 16:9 aspect ratio and a unique pedestal mount whose lightweight design and slim stature lets it fit where other stands won't. But the HL-P5085W offers more than just quantity of screen: it's also engineered for quality.
The secret to this DLP (Digital Light Processing) projection set's quality is its Emmy-winning technology from Texas Instruments. Samsung has combined its proprietary Cinema Smooth Gen 4 HD light engine and advanced optic enhancements with a single, .8-inch Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) capable of generating high-definition video images with film-like resolution, deep blacks, and robust colors. Samsung's Cinema Smooth light engine enhances brightness while ensuring an astonishing 2,500:1 contrast ratio.
Texas Instruments' DMD panel is immune to the factors that can cause other displays to deteriorate with use, imparting a longer life expectancy than that of cathode ray tube (CRT) sets, plasma display panels, and liquid crystal display systems (LCD, LCoS, HTPS). A host of advanced digital interfaces and video inputs make non-issues of connectivity challenges and future proofing.
The HL-P5085W's automatic digital-format conversion system converts any input (whether DTV, analog TV, or XGA computer sources at 1080i, 720p, 480p, or 480i) to a progressive, 16:9 widescreen image with a 1,280 x 720 pixel count. A 3D Y/C digital comb filter dramatically reduces image-edge artifacts while improving transition detail, and the set's HD ultra-fine-pitch (.155 mm) screen further clarifies images, especially when you're viewing high-resolution sources like DVD and HDTV.
Samsung's Cinema Smooth Film Mode 3:2 Pull Down correction circuitry addresses digital distortion in 480i (interlaced) video signals generated from 24 frames-per-second film. Finally, Samsung DNIe video enhancer (Digital Natural Image engine) works with all analog NTSC and wideband video signals for improvements in contrast, white level, and picture detail, incorporating digital noise reduction to improve lower-quality sources.
The set offers digital-video inputs in 2 formats. A DVI-HDTV interface with HDCP copy protection permits all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with an analog interface, and an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) jack channels both digital audio and video to simplify connections with newer DTV set-top boxes and DVD players by reducing hookups to just a single cable and plug.
Other inputs include dual HDTV component-video inputs (480i, 480p, 720p, and 1080i) for high-definition satellite receivers, HDTV tuners, and HD cable boxes with component video outputs (Y, Pb, Pr); 3 each composite- and S-video inputs; and 2 RF coaxial inputs for antennas or older VCRs or cable boxes. An audio/video output permits hookup with an external device such as a surround-sound receiver.
A 15-watts-per-channel (x2) audio system with a pair of 2-way speakers comes with built-in SRS TruSurround XT, which simulates compelling surround sound through any stereo playback system, including headphones and the TV's speakers.
Last but far from least, onboard 2-tuner PIP with side-by-side split-screen viewing grants convenient simultaneous viewing of 2 TV programs, while a supplied universal remote control permits control of the TV, a DVD player, a VCR, and a tuner/surround receiver.
What's in the Box TV, pedestal mount, remote control, remote batteries, a user's manual, and warranty information.
With its clear display and fast processing, the TI-83 Plus incorporates graphing tools for mathematics and science course work, including statistics and finance. Incredibly useful for college boards--PSAT/NMSQT, SAT I, SAT II, Math, IC, and IIC--the TI-83 is essential equipment for advanced placement courses in chemistry, physics, and calculus.
The addition of the optional TI-Graph Link (software and cable) allows you to connect the calculator to your computer, permitting the transfer of files and data between machines. The TI-83 is powered by four AAA alkaline batteries and one lithium battery for backup, with an automatic shutoff to save energy. It also comes with a hard slide cover and is supported by a one-year limited warranty. --Barbara Price
comments: "A Highly Useful Calculator" I bought the TI-83 PLUS during my high school freshmen year. I bought it because we needed for Geometry. As a sophmore, I found this calculator to be a very useful tool as I continue to use it! I use it for algebra II AND chemistry -- plus, like they said, it's upgradable. Of course, I don't know ALL the functions of this calculator, but it's very useful nevertheless. It has a great keypad, a ton of functions, and it's easy to change modes. The TI-83 PLUS is incomparable to an ordinary scientific calculator -- it is SO much more! I think the TI-83 PLUS is the best buy, since it's upgradable and all. It's better than the the regular TI-83 and a better buy (since it's only a few bucks more). Even the overall look of it is different -- The TI-83 PLUS is pretty slim, in my opinion and its screen is better than the TI-83 screen. Overall, this is one of the best graphing calculators out there!
"All-Purpose Number Cruncher" Here are ten reasons you should consider the TI-83 Plus/TI-83 Plus Silver Edition:
1. Very fast, reliable calculations 2. Menu driven, so you can go straight to the category of functions you want, and select your item 3. It's programmable, and for most applications, you can program useful algorithms and even games (games take up a lot more space than math programs however) 4. Texas Instruments is constantly adding to the number of applications you can get, some for free, some for purchase. My favorites include: Poly Solver, Probability Simulation (you can draw from a deck of cards or roll dice). Also Detached Solutions has several applications such as symbolic math (in its first stages). 5. Finance, Time-value-of-money, days-between-dates, and interest conversion given to you from the get-go. 6. Solver, solve for any variable. 7. Matrices, for linear programming. 8. Graphing, including Function, Sequential, and Polar. (Differential equations app coming soon)
9. Well written manual. 10. Recommended for: Accounting, Finance, Business, Chemistry (Periodic Table app available), Biology, Most Math Classes (for Pure Math and Engineering, a TI-89/92 Plus is recommended)
My favorite calculator, I use this one the most out of my collection. Well worth the $...
"Essential for any High-School Level Math Class" Texas Instruments produces some of the most popular and well known graphing calculators in the industry. The TI-83 plus can do most any math problem found in Algebra I, Geometry, and even some Algebra II/Trigonometry. The wide screen allows for graphing equations and multi-line functions.
The graphing capabilities of the TI-83+ are a superb choice for Algebra I classes. The ability to automatically find intersections and a variety of other important components of a graph are only key presses away.
The calculator has a powerful matrix editor allowing for easy multiplication, addition, and subtraction of matrices. Division of matrices is not possible. The list editor allows for statistical analysis of data both numerically and graphically. Graphically, the 83+ can plot data in several different formats.
Anyone who is familiar with the BASIC computer language can program the TI-83+ with ease. The calculator supports the use of almost every function through a program. Programs can be typed directly into the calculator, or on a computer. The TI-83+ also supports a special form of programs called Flash Applications. Flash Applications are generally quite complex, and are written in a special language on the computer.
The manual included with the calculator is superb. It goes into detail on every single option the calculator supports. Every section includes a Quick Start tutorial that provides an practical example covering many of the chapter's topics. Learning to program in TI-BASIC, the programming language of the calculator is possible through reading the entire manual and following the examples.
The TI Graph Link cable is the interface between a computer (PC or Mac) and any TI Calculator with a link port. It comes in several variations depending on what kind of computer it will be hooked to. The cable is not included with the calculator, but can be purchased as an option. The TI-83+ Silver Edition includes a Black Link cable for Windows PCs.
When the TI-83+ is outgrown, upgrading the TI-89 will require little work for anyone who has gained experience with TI's entry level graphing calculator. The TI-89 has the capability to do Calculus and 3-Dimensional graphs primarily.
Overall, the 83+ is an excellent choice for anyone taking an Algebra course or any math class above that. The calculator does basic arithmetic, graphic, statistics, matrices, and a variety of other mathematical operations.
description: The Olympus DM-10 stereo digital voice recorder/music player packs 64 MB of built-in flash memory to give you nearly 22 hours (1,340 minutes) of voice recording or a full hour of near-CD-quality music in either MP3 or WMA formats. The DM-10's compact, lightweight design and smooth, silvery finish make it an ideal travel companion. Measuring a mere 4.31 x 1.56 x 0.6 inches (H x W x D) and weighing in at a mere 3 ounces, the attractive and ergonomic DM-10 fits comfortably in the hand of the on-the-go professional or exercise enthusiast.
The DM-10 has 5 separate file folders capable of holding 199 files each, so you can organize nearly 1,000 files according to subjects like "work," "personal," and "to do." When recording, simply capture your high-quality voice files in either WMA or DSS (Digital Speech Standard) format and then place the recorder in the included USB docking station to begin downloading hours of audio to a PC or Macintosh computer. Stereo voice recording is possible with an optional stereo microphone.
Alarm playback will alert you to meetings, dates, show reminders, or wake-up times. You can simply dictate reminders into the DM-10--such as "Time to pick up the kids!"--and assign a time for this message to sound, like an alarm clock's buzzer.
Built-in WOW sound enhancement produces rich bass, and three-dimensional sound, while a user-selectable 5-setting equalizer lets you tailor the sound to your taste or environment. Olympus's innovative noise-canceling technology makes the sound even clearer. removing unwanted hiss and background noise.
The unit offers a built-in condenser microphone, and a .125-inch microphone jack gives you the option to use a high-quality external mic (not included). A .125-inch earphone jack and supplied stereo ear bud headphones let you monitor your files during or after recording. To suit various sound conditions, you can adjust the microphone's sensitivity. The recorder can be viewed in low-light situations, such as at a lecture hall or during presentations, thanks to its easy-to-read backlit LCD.
After capturing recordings you can erase them or move them between folders. The DM-10 also lets you set up to 16 index marks per message, during recording and during playback. This way, you can locate specific sections of individual dictations quickly and easily. The individual files may be played back at three different speeds: normal, fast, or slow, through either the built-in speaker or the supplied earphones. In addition, with the Repeat Playback function, the DM-10 can repeatedly play back a particular user-selected section of audio recording--ideal for transcribing dictation.
The unit's Variable Control Voice Actuator (VCVA) ensures that recording begins only when sound occurs, while its security lock prevents accidental deletion of sensitive files.
The DM-10 is perfectly suited to meet varying professional needs. You can easily attach voice files to e-mails or forward them to others for transcription. The optional AS-3000 transcription kit (DSS Player Pro transcription module with foot switch and headset) can further streamline this process. The DM-10 is also compatible with most voice recognition software, including IBM's Via Voice.
What's in the Box Voice recorder, docking station, USB cable, stereo ear bud headphones, a CD-ROM, a user's manual, and warranty information.
comments: "Excellent product" I purchased the DM-20, which has twice the storage. I would recommend finding that one if you plan to use it much for music. It has great support for Windows Media Audio .wma and .mp3 files, and their proprietary format. I try to do everything in .wma. At the lowest quality compression setting you get a very long recording time. Navigation is easy. The controls are set out well. The LCD has good info and lots of options. The voice recording quality is excellent, especially from the remote control plug-in microphone (which might not be available in all versions).
"Fragile equipment" On May 29, 2004 I ordered the digital recorder, based upon the glowing reviews that I've read about the sound quality. I'm a barbershopper and wanted to have high fidelity digital recordings for the chorus web site and for learning tapes. The device is tiny, sleek and shiny like an elongated lighter. It sounded sensational with the little ear buds, but came with no protective case. On 07/09/04 it stopped working entirely. The display did not light up, yet the batteries were new (2 days old)and the battery display showed that it was fully charged the day before. I was heading out for a rehearsal, and had it on my wrist by the strap. My guess is that it must have bumped into the car door as I slid into the driver's seat. When I took it off my wrist to put on the seat belt, that's when I discovered that the display was dead. I opened the battery slide and the little coil that pushes against the battery sprung out. Without that in place the recorder cannot work. Because the failure happened more than a month after purchase, Home Depot would not cover it. Olympus is having me send it back. We'll see what happens. It's a nice device, with great fidelity, but it's incredibly fragile. I'd hesitate before recommending it."Beware, DSS is Olympus proprietary format, not a "standard"" Yes, the features of this machine are nice, but the DSS format's name "Digital Speech Standard" and Olympus's touting of it as an "international standard" are deliberately misleading. In fact, Olympus owns it and does not even make it available enough for software vendors to develop conversion software. There is no way to, for instance, convert a CD audio, or MP3, or any other audio file into DSS format in order to play it on the DM-10. If you buy the thing thinking you can load 10 hours of CD audio books onto it, you will find that instead you only get 1 hour (in WMA format). And if you call Olympus to ask about it, their tech support people based in India will just tell you tough luck.
description: Designed with students of higher math in mind, the TI-85 is a scientific calculator that offers a wealth of features and functions that will take you smoothly from pre-algebra all the way through college calculus. Its data I/O port and unit-to-unit link (compatible with all TI-85 and TI-86 models) allow you to easily transfer your final graphs and equations among systems, while the 28K RAM and customizable menu keys provide quick access to necessary programming functions. As you advance through classes, simply reprogram the keys to keep up with your new textbook chapters.
Functions are widely varied, and include the ability to solve for systems-of-equations, polynomial-root, or any variable in an equation. Graphing possibilities include parametric equations, polar equations, and solutions to differential equations. Statistical analysis runs the gamut from linear, logarithmic, exponential and power to quadratic polynomial, cubic polynomial, and quartic polynomial regressions. In addition, data is viewable as strings, pictures, or vectors. Simultaneous separate graph capability and 15 interactive zoom features are also included.
The display is a generous eight lines long and 21 characters wide; this unit is powered by four AAA batteries, with a dependable long-life lithium ion providing memory backup. Texas Instruments includes a one-year warranty covering parts and service.
What's in the Box TI-85, lithium backup battery, link cable, guidebook with warranty card, and impact-resistant slide case; AAA batteries not included
comments: "replaced my TI-30 Stat" I used a scientic calulator for years. I bought the TI-85 my Senior year of High School and even though I'm not yet in college (five years later) I'm still a nerd that likes to play on it. most of time I just use it for basic stuff I can still do with a new TI-30X I bought granted I can graph with it and I've been looking hard at TI-89 for no other reason than I can. (more than likely would be my next purchase if I did buy another one) the sad thing is resources for this calulator are limited seeing as it's been discontinued but you know it's still more powerful with it's computing power over my GF TI-83 plus. it just lacks the storage of memory.
"Excellent Investment.." Its an excellent investment for engineers. The Calci helps a lot in mathematical calculations. It has a Huge number of engineering applications. Few applications which I found VERY Useful are
(1) Inverse of a Matrix (2) Solving Quadratic and higher order Equations. (3) Plotting the graph of Algebric Equations which help in finding out the Maxima and Minina..
regards, A Graduate Student
"TI - 85 Overall, a good graphing calculator." With a large number of features and a huge range of functions, the TI-85 is a graphing tool that is well worth its cost. It is fully programmable, using a BASIC-like programming language. Texas Instruments discontinued this line of calculators however, and though they may have had their own reasons, I know of at least two flaws with this particular calculator. The first is that there are some bugs in its programming, such as its inability to convert negative temperatures. The second and much more serious problem is that the screen is not reliable. Roughly half of these calculators have one or more lines or columns of pixels fail after a few years of use. As long as you aren't paying retail price, however, the $$$it might cost for a used TI-85 is more than worth it. Enjoy.
description: This advanced graphing calculator is packed with more features than you might know how to use. The TI-89 Titanium lets you perform the expected functions of an advanced model--basic math, algebra, calculus, graphs, matrices, and statistical functions--and do cool stuff like creating animations, graphing 3-D rotations, and plotting contours. Graphing functions include basic function graphing, parametric graphing, polar graphing, sequence graphing, 3-D graphing, and differential-equation graphing. Additionally, the TI-89 Titanium includes symbolic manipulation, constants and measurement units, statistics and data plots, a numeric solver, a text editor, programming capabilities, tables, a split-screen function, variable management, and the ability to link to other calculators or a computer.
The TI-89 Titanium's flash technology allows you to upgrade to future software versions without having to continually invest in new calculators. The 188 KB of RAM, combined with an impressive 2.7 MB of flash memory (three times the memory of the TI-89), are more than sufficient for your stored functions, programs, and data, and add welcome speed to go with the TI's reliability. You can create custom menus or use the default menu. Another cool feature is the Program Editor, which gives you the ability to write custom applications.
The large LCD is adjustable to your environment and can be viewed clearly under a variety of lighting conditions. The calculator also comes with an input/output port and cable, letting you synch up with other TI-89s or TI-92s, as well as a USB port and cable. An attached, hard slide cover protects the calculator from getting knocked around in your backpack. The manual that ships with the TI-89 Titanium is a killer, presenting over 500 pages of clear, concise definitions, function explanations, examples, drawings, and appendices. It's divided into well-organized chapters that cover all the major features of the calculator.
What's in the Box The TI-89 Titanium, a hard sliding case, silver oxide battery, user's guide, applications CD-ROM, USB cable, TI-link cable, and warranty information
comments: "Make sure you compare same calculators" Another retailer may be cheaper by but from what I can see it is not the same calculator. This version is the titanium which has more memory that the regular Ti 89. My son's current calculator is the Ti 83+ silver edition. The memory has made all the difference. Will be upgrading to the TI-89 titanium in the next few weeks. Texas Instruments (through email) helped me select this as the correct next caluclator for High school AP calculus and Physics then off to college in engineering. Choose it over the TI 84+ Silver.
"Great Calculator" Before I bought a TI-89 Titanium, I had used a TI-83 Plus for four years. After taking calculus and learning about limits, derivatives, integrals, infinite series, Taylor series, differential equations, and multivariable functions, I decided that I would look for a calculator which was capable of symbolic computation. After analyzing my options, I decided on a TI-89 Titanium. The TI-89 Titanium is able to expand polynomials, factor polynomials, and do all of the calculus techniques that I mentioned -- symbolically and numerically. One of the other things I found helpful was the TI-89 Titanium's ability to plot direction fields using different algorithms (including Euler's method). One of the nicer things about this model (compared to the TI-89) is that it has USB connectivity (cord included) for installing applications and transferring data. Another nice thing is that it also supports connectivity to older model TI-89s via the old I/O port which is right next to the USB connector. I also found the "exact mode" very useful (exact mode will give you exact answers rather than decimal approximations). Yet, the most useful feature of this calculator is probably the "pretty print" feature which displays expressions as you would normally write them on paper. This feature allows you to easily see the expression that you typed in. All these features plus copy and paste ability make this calculator nearly perfect. My only complaint is that the cover does not initially slide on and off easily. However, I'm sure that with more use it will wear in. Overall this is a great calculator -- I recommend it"gibberrish" the calc is a good one. you should get it. it will help you in futhering your mathmatic skills. World of Warcraft is a good game. If you like Quake 3, you can get it for this calc.
description: With it's stylish thin bezel design, the Samsung Syncmaster 153T offers not only good looks but versatile input and crystal clear viewing as well. With 1,024 x 768 native resolution, 0.297 mm dot pitch, a 350:1 contrast ratio, and 250 nits of brightness, the 153T delivers images that are crisp and sharp in almost any setting.
The Syncmaster 153T offers wide 150-degree horizontal viewing (120 degrees vertical), and whether you choose desktop or wall mounting, the 153T also offers pivot technology, so you can choose between landscape or portrait orientation. The monitor accepts both analog RGB and digital DVI inputs for maximum signal versatility plus compatibility with Windows, Mac and Sun Microsystems operating environments.
This plug-and-play model is easy to set up, ready to use right out of the box. It has a built-in power supply and comes backed by a generous three-year warranty on parts, labor, and backlight.
What's in the Box Syncmaster 153T LCD monitor, power cable, signal cable, user guide, warranty information
comments:
Uniden TRU8885-2 5.8 GHz Digital Cordless Phone with Dual Handsets and Answering System
Uniden TRU8885-2 5.8 GHz Digital Cordless Phone with Dual Handsets and Answering System
/UNIDEN
description: The TRU8885-2 from Uniden is a cordless phone with a built-in answering machine, caller ID compatibility, and expandability to 10 handsets. It comes with two handsets, one that recharges in the base unit and another that recharges in the included remote charging cradle. That latter requires only an AC outlet, so you don't have to worry about additional phone jacks.
By utilizing the less cluttered 5.8 GHz frequency, the TRU8885-2 is able to offer a clearer, more intelligible signal than older phones operating on lower bands. Caller ID/call waiting compatible (requires subscription through your local phone company), the TRU8885-2 holds up to 200 numbers in its internal caller ID/phone directory (100 on the base, 100 on the handset), while the display-and-dial feature allows you to quickly scroll through the caller ID list and dial the displayed number with the touch of a button. Ten speed dial presets allow you to easily call the most frequently used outgoing numbers, and an alphabetical search feature provides an easy way to locate numbers stored in the internal memory.
Handset and base speakerphones provide a hands-free communication method, while a direct link mode allows you to use the handsets as walkie-talkies. Four-way conferencing allows several phones to communicate with an outside call. An intercom function enables communication with other phones on the same system, and the call transfer feature lets you transfer calls from the base phone to the handset and vise versa.
The all-digital answering machine has a 12-minute maximum record time and a four-minute maximum message length. A conversation record feature provides a quick and easy way to save important information such as directions, while full remote operation allows you to check your messages even when you are away from home. A page/handset locater feature makes finding a lost handset quick and painless. Handset and ringer controls let you adjust volume levels to your liking, while the redial button automatically calls the last three outgoing numbers. The TRU8885-2 also comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Base, two handsets, remote charging cradle, two battery packs, two AC adapters, one telephone line cord, two belt clips, user's manual, warranty information
comments: "Good phone" Went from a Panasonic 900 mhz to this phone mainly for the capability to expand to many rooms w/o having to wire new jacks. Others have a fine job in their reviews, so just want to comment on what other see as a flaw but I see as a positive which is the Caller ID delete functionality being independent on each phone and the base unit. Some have said all should be able to be deleted at once--a "universal" delete. We have three users on the phone line each with their own handset. The way it works now, each of us can determine for own handsets which ones to delete--if Uniden ever goes to the universal delete, I hope they give the option to let the "deleter" choose which handsets (or the base unit) to do the "univeral" delete.
"The One to buy" After years of living with my Siemens 2415, I had to replace them with a 5.8ghz due to interference from a neighbor's wireless network (so annoying). I was disappointed with the 5.8 ghz models on the market (big antennas and poor design) and was waiting for something upto the level of Siemen's, but tried the Uniden based on the rave reviews here. After a few weeks, I would say they are quite good with flaws. Good reception. Good design. They have all the features you could want. A big plus not mentioned elsewhere is the "do not disturb" button on the base which will shut off all ringers and call screening, perfect for napping. Plus all phones clearly say Do Not Disturb so you won't forget about it later. Orange LCD is very bright and readable (not my favorite color but you get used to it). Handsets are attractive. The Base is another story, not as attractive and buttons are really small and hard to decipher. Handsets are comfortable to use and you can easily adjust volume when on the phone. Caller ID on Call waiting is a pleasure as the name doesn't disappear as soon as you take the receiver away from your ear, it gives you a chance to see it. Also a nice bonus is being able to call screen on any handset even though it is done through the speaker phone. Retrieving messages on the Handset is also a good feature. Many Minor Flaws, the first is Caller ID. Caller ID must be reset on each phone and base separately. It will tell you how many times a number has called but then that info disappears after you read it once on that handset. Most odd. Keep that info and put a star next to the new Caller ID's instead. Time and Date must be set manually for answering machine and not taken from caller id. Answering machine annoyingly tells you what time it is when you call in first. Then tells you how many new and old messages you have, then repeats that info when you press the button to actually play the messages. Beyond redundant. Most bizarre is that when you retrieve message from the handset you press single digits, but when calling in from outside, you must press 2 digits, you must press a preceding 0. Ridiculous. You pick your security code but it is only 2 digits long. Again ridiculous especially in this day and age. Answering machine doesn't correlate to Caller ID so you can't easily see number of hangup or person leaving message. You must go into Caller ID and correlate the time and number yourself. There is no way to delete the entire phone book in a handset, you must delete each entry separately. Kind of dumb. The alphabetizing of names in the directory is also dumb, as non letters are placed in priority after letters. There is no easy way to force someone at the front of for example the B's with B1: Name B2: Name as I used to do. The only way now is by BA1: BA2: etc. Too cumbersome. And any symbol used is also placed after z for alphabetizing, so preceding symbols don't work either. Caps are the default when typing in names. So you must press button 4-6 times just to get lower case. Very annoying unless you like all your names in all Caps. You can't edit phone numbers without deleting numbers first, text however is fully editable. The ringers are acceptable but on par with the cell phones of 2 generations ago. Where are downloadable ringers or more normal ringers. And why do we have only low and high and off settings? Where is a midground of medium? The delay when distinctive ring is on is way too long. Phones light up and you wait and wait for it to ring. I had to turn this feature off to get phone to ring when it lights up. I would prefer a base with no buttons at all more like Siemens and everything in the soft menus. Also a higher price with more memory would be better. More minutes for messages and give me 100 memories for both Caller ID and Directory. I need 100 just for the phone book alone. Even with all these minor/major annoyances and flaws, the phones seem to offer much more than the competition at a fair price and in my opinion clearly the only game in town so far..."no power failure issues for messages?" I wrote to Uniden support asking about what happens to the messages if the power goes out. I also was curious if the direct link phone functionality was different than when talking to the base. You would think the range would have to be decent for walkie-talkie usage; the manual talks about using them while shopping for example. Also I did unplug my phone (very briefly) and saw that time reset but then it came back to the correct time soon afterwards. My outgoing message was also intact. So I'm not sure how that works... a capacitor or small battery? I guess the announcements/messages could be written to some type of memory that doesn't need power (like a CF card?)
I would have to say though that the answering machine is a little hard to get used, especially when my old Siemens 4215 had such a nice interface (it said the caller id and time when listening remotely and showed caller id on the display when accessing through the handsets. It seems especially odd that the Uniden says the time of the call after you play the message rather than before! The Uniden voice is also a lot more "robot-like" than the old Siemens.
Here was Uniden's reply:
"The range of the phone will depend on your environment for both using the handset and also in direct link mode.
With out any interference and a direct line from the base to the handset, the range is up to 6000ft. In direct link mode the range is line of sight between the handsets.
If there is a power failure, the messages will be restored regardless of how long the power was out."
Uniden TRU8866 5.8 GHz Digital Expandable 2-Line Cordless Speakerphone with Dual Keypads (Black)
Uniden TRU8866 5.8 GHz Digital Expandable 2-Line Cordless Speakerphone with Dual Keypads (Black)
/Uniden
description: The Uniden TRU8866 cordless phone system offers an attractive bundle of features with room to grow. 5.8 GHz digital signal transmission offers increased call clarity and security while the impressive caller ID capabilities ensure that you'll never miss a call or lose an important number. Plus, a duplex speakerphone in the base and a standard speakerphone in the handset provide hands-free conversation options.
Housed in a professional-looking, no-nonsense black case, the phone's memory is shared between the caller ID log and the programmable memory dialing--100 names and numbers in the handset, and 100 more in the base unit. You can locate numbers using a alphabetic search tool similar to that of a typical cell phone, and the most commonly dialed numbers can be assigned to 10 speed dial presets accessed on the base unit.
The TRU8866 offers room to grow. It's expandable to 10 handsets (model #TCX860, one included). With additional handsets, you can transfer calls, transfer memory locations, and even use them as an intercom around the house or as a room monitoring system (baby monitor).
Additional features include conferencing, trilingual menu display options, distinctive ring tones, mute, hold, redial, and headset compatibility (headset sold separately). Even with additional handsets, the TRU8866 requires just one phone jack. Simply plug the base unit into a phone jack, and the additional handsets will configure themselves to "talk" directly with the base unit.
What's in the Box TRU8866 (base unit and handset), phone line cord, AC power adapter, NiMH battery, battery cover, belt clip, user guide, warranty information
comments:
Creative MuVo Micro N200 512 MB MP3 Player (Black)
description: Weighing just a little more than an ounce, the incredibly thin Creative Muvo Micro N200 packs a lot of features into its small package. In addition to multiformat digital audio playback--both MP3 and WMA--the Micro N200 also offers an FM radio, voice recorder, and line-in recording capability.
The Micro N200 plays both MP3 and WMA digital audio files; the 512 MB internal flash memory will store up to 16 hours of WMA files at 64 kbps or up to 8 hours of MP3 music at 128 kbps. With support for WMA, MuVo Micro N200 offers you access to the widest selection of music download services on the Internet, including Best Buy MusicNow, Buy Music, Musicmatch, and Napster.
The Micro N200 enables line-in recording to create MP3 files directly from a CD, mini-disc or record player, and high-quality digital voice recording via the built-in microphone--perfect for recording voice notes, interviews or lectures. The Micro N200 also plays and records FM radio. You can also use the Micro N200 as a mass storage USB drive, enabling you to carry important documents and presentations.
It's powered by 1 AAA battery that provides up to 15 hours of continuous play. With super-fast USB 2.0 connectivity and simple drag-and-drop transfer without software, the Micro N200 accepts music files as quickly as a song per second. A blue, backlit LCD screen--reversible for left- or right-handed operation--displays song title, play time, play mode, FM tuner and preset settings. Songs and EQ settings can be easily accessed and selected with one-finger using the side-mounted scroller button.
What's in the Box This package includes the 512 MB Muvo Micro N200, dynamic bass stereo headphones, neck strap, sports armband and case, line-in cable, 1 AAA battery, and CD-ROM with Creative MediaSource music management software. MediaSource is an easy-to-use application for ripping CDs, organizing entire digital music collections, and easily transferring MP3 and WMA files.
comments:
Optoma EzPro 737 Digital Video Projector
Optoma EzPro 737 Digital Video Projector
/OPTOMA TECHNOLOGY
description: SVA's stylish VR-20 LCD television offers a perfectly flat, 20-inch screen capable of rendering vivid, razor-sharp images from your PC, external sources like DVD players, and from its own internal NTSC tuner for convenient broadcast-television viewing. With 640 x 480 native pixel resolution, the VR-20's image quality is enhanced by its high (450:1) contrast ratio, an exceptional peak brightness of 400 candles/square meter, and wide (170 x 170-degrees) viewing angles. The stereo set pumps five watts per channel through its discreet, flush-mount speakers.
The VR-20 is EDTV capable, meaning it renders both 480i interlaced (standard resolution, as from VCRs and cable boxes) and 480p progressive-scan video signals from DTV set-top decoders and DVD players in their native resolutions. But the set also accepts high-definition 720p signals, as well, scaling them to its 480p resolution. It also offers a built-in NTSC tuner for convenient broadcast-TV viewing.
Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p/720p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts.
LCD screens offer a number of benefits over CRT monitors and televisions, including general ease of use, freedom from eye strain (no screen flickering or radiation emissions), quiet operation (no high-pitch "flyback" noise, an issue with CRT TVs), accurate image geometry (no curvature distortion or susceptibility to magnetic interference from, say, speakers), long screen life (no risk of image burn-in), space savings, and light weight/easy positioning. They also tend to be cheaper and, to some eyes, slightly more natural looking than their plasma flat-panel counterparts, which usually "spec" higher (higher brightness, higher contrast ratio).
Set the VR-20 on a desk using the supplied stand, or mount it on the wall for cool styling and maximum space efficiency.
What's in the Box TV, AC adapter, AC power cord, remote control, remote batteries, audio and video cables (stereo analog audio and composite-, component-, and S-video), desk stand, and a user's manual.
comments:
Canon BCI-6 Black and Color Ink Tanks (8-Pack, i9900 Photo Printer)
sorry no image
Canon BCI-6 Black and Color Ink Tanks (8-Pack, i9900 Photo Printer)
/Canon Office Products
description: Need ink for your Canon i9900 photo printer? This eight-pack of individual ink tanks offers all the colors you'll need. It includes one each of the following:
description: A high-performance dedicated film scanner designed for imaging professionals, the Super Coolscan 5000 ED offers high-quality scanning of 35mm slides, 35mm film strips, APS film (with optional IX240 film adapter), and prepared slides (with optional medical slide holder). The Scanner-Nikkor ED glass lens offers a 4,000 dpi optical resolution, while the 3,964-pixel, two-line linear CCD image sensor and 16-bit per color A/D input (8-/16-bit output) provide true-to-life, brilliant results.
Nikon's own LED illumination technology ensures accurate color separation with no warm-up time or risk of heat damage. Scan times are as fast as 20 seconds including image transfer to display, and as fast as 11 seconds in preview mode. Automatic color/contrast compensation helps you achieve accurate results, while the ICE4 advanced digital image correction suite of technologies--including digital ICE, digital ROC, digital GEM, and digital DEE--helps to restore old slides to their original glory. Additionally, the included Nikon Scan 4 software provides a comprehensive and easy-to-use interface for managing your scans.
The Super Coolscan 5000 ED has a convenient, plug-and-play USB interface, while one-touch scan and preview buttons will have you scanning film in no time. PC and Mac compatible, the Super Coolscan 5000 ED also comes backed with a one-year limited warranty.
More Features:
What's in the Box Scanner, CD-ROM, strip film holder FH-3, slide adapter, instructions
comments: "Works beautifully, although slower than you might expect" I am using this product almost exclusively for slide scanning, so my comments only apply to that aspect of this product.
If you are like me and wondering whether you should suffer through using a consumer level slide scanner or fork out the dough for this one, then the quality this produces when scanning dark slides should be enough to convince you alone. And that's just the beginning. I've used consumer level scanners before and no amount of tweaking or photoshop'ing can match the quality the Coolscan 5000 produces. For professionals, this is of course a no brainer, but for semi-professional folks like me, this is a major investment, and I needed some convincing that it would be worth it. I am now convinced.
Don't put too much stock into the scan times (and feed times for the sf-210 auto feeder). These times are without any Digital ICE, auto exposure, auto focus, etc. However, I have found if you do not use these features, you are wasting your time. After much tweaking to get all the settings such that the final result looked just like the original slide, I am looking at about 1 minute and 30 seconds per slide using the sf-210 (AMD 2.2 Ghz 1GB Ram, scanning at 2000 dpi)
I have found that without tweaking, you get a bluish hue (although a little less so for Kodachrome slides). I have turned red up +20 and blue down +20 (green at 0) and to me, this seems to give the best results (ymmv).
Use the digital ice features!!! They are simply amazing. The dust and scratch removal is phenomenal. The grain removal is also wonderful - and it keeps the picture sharp much more so than using a software filter like those found in Photoshop. Personally, I set the Digital ROC (color restoration and correction) to 0 because it is too unpredictable.
Lastly, use a bright, high quality LCD monitor! You would be amazed at the difference this can make when doing color matching, especially on dark pictures. I was astonished to see the difference.
When you take the above into consideration, this scanner is superb. Plan on spending a few hours getting your settings just right, but after that, sit back and enjoy. I've done 8x10 prints of my slides (scanned at 2000 dpi) that are just beautiful. It is near impossible to match the luminance and beauty of a projected slide, but the Coolscan 5000 does a darn good job.
"An outstanding, if imperfect, scanner." First of all, let me say I am a neophyte when it comes to scanning. My mother passed away recently and I wanted to go through my father's 20,000 slides and scan the best ones before they, as many before them, disappeared into the hands of one of my 7 other siblings never to be found again.
After culling my father's slides I ended up with about 750 I wanted to scan. After culling my own slides I ended up with another 200 slides. And after that I decided to go through my color negative collection and scan the best of those as well. A daunting project! But honestly well worth the effort.
Most of my father's slides are Kodachrome. Much has been written about the inability of this scanner to scan Kodachrome slides and said about ICE4 not working with Kodachrome. Well, I have some good news and some bad news. The ICE4 does work, however, inconstantly with Kodachrome slides producing unacceptable artifacts in about 5 - 10 percent of the slides. It is a hit or miss proposition. I scanned with ICE (not ICE4) always on and then rescanned if I encountered unacceptable artifacts. I did notice that the scanner ICE feature was stumped by old Kodachrome slides where subjects were wearing shirts with stripes. Those stripes were really butchered by the ICE feature.
The GEM ROC and DEE (the other stalwarts of the ICE4 other than ICE itself) work on Kodachrome slides as well, but I found that the results were unpredictable and that I could achieve better results myself in Photoshop far more quickly. The GEM ROC and DEE features simply took too long and slowed down the scanning unacceptably. The results, for me, were not worth the additional scanning time.
The good news: The scanner is fast and does produce wonderful wonderful detailed scans, easily demonstrating the grain in the transparancies at 3000 and 4000 dpi. The Kodachrome slides were a challenge to the Dynamic Range of the scanner, but I believe that most of the detail in the shadows that is there was extracted. Unfortunately, Kodachrome, with all of its many attributes, does have substantial downsides including a very narrow exposure latitude and shadow detail is simply lacking. I think the scanner accurately reproduced the information including the colors on the Kodachrome slides, with perhaps a slight bluish cast noticed in some cases.
It wasn't until I was finished scanning all of the culled slides that I undertook to scan my select color negatives. And this scanner really came into its own scanning color negatives. Don't even TRY to scan color negatives without ICE because the results are unbelievably bad. Even pristine negatives have scratches and pit marks that magically are erased by the ICE feature. What a godsend. I only wish it had worked so flawlessly on the Kodachrome slides. The scanned color negatives were just beautiful with very accurate color rendition. But immediately I noticed much more grain in the color negatives (Royal Gold and Fuji Superia Gold) than in the scanned slides.
One note unrelated to the scanner itself. Until you've used a digital scanner to scan your color negatives you can't begin to realize how far superior Kodachrome, Provia, and Ektachrome slides are to color negatives insofar as capturing detail. Even the best color negatives have much more grain that Kodachrome. And the difference in color negatives is substantial too.
The included Nikon software worked fantastic for me. I downloaded a copy of VueScan which according to many reviews is superior to the Nikon software and found that for me the Nikon software was easier to work with and produced superior results.
The software did cause my computer to crash occasionally which was an aggravation, but a minor one when considered against its many attributes.
I can recommend this scanner without reservation. It is a phenomenal piece of equipment.
"Best 35mm film scanner under $50,000" The previous generation (CS IV and CS 4000) were hard to top, but Nikon did it yet again. Scans are smooth and gorgeous, color accuracy (provided your monitor is calibrated) is unrivaled and the updated ICE4 including DEE are a blessing. In fact the scans are so good that I have started to prefer CS5000 scans from well exposed Fuji Provia 100F or Astia 100F slides than images from a 6MP DSLR. Hard to believe but thats true.
Did I mention scanning speed ? I timed a 4000 DPI scan with digital ICE turned off, on a P4 2.6Ghz with 1 GB ram and USB2. It took 17 seconds from begining to end (excluding autofocus and auto exposure). Thats right. Actually three seconds faster than Nikon's claim of 20 sec. Beat that Minolta.
IMO the next step up can only be a $50K HowTek drum scanner ;)
HP PhotoSmart PSC 2610 All-in-One Printer
HP PhotoSmart PSC 2610 All-in-One Printer
/Hewlett Packard Office
description: The AT&T 5800 is an expansion handset for use with AT&T 5.8 GHz models 5830 and 5840. You can add up to five 5800 handsets to your base station (not included) for a total operating capability of six handsets.
The expansion handset's LCD provides caller ID/call waiting information (subscription required). Enhanced audio technology derives from advances in acoustic design that have improved the frequency response relative to conventional cordless phones. The Sound Select feature offers four different audio settings: bass, mid, treble, and natural.
The handset receiver lights up with incoming calls or can be set to vibrate. It stores 50 names and numbers and works with your caller ID service to remember the last 50 callers. A spare-battery charging system enables the telephone to work even in a power outage. Choose from eight ringer melodies. Other features include a 50-name-and-number caller ID history, a lighted display, and a visual message-waiting indicator.
What's in the Box Handset, charger/base, AC power supply and cord, model 2401 rechargeable battery, instructions, warranty information
Note: This handset is not a stand-alone phone; it requires an AT&T 5830 or 5840 base unit, sold separately.
comments: "Perfect phone!" I'm fussy about small buttons, hard to program menues, poorly lighted dials....this phone has none of that! The talking caller ID on the base unit is terrific and the plug in add-on units are very convenient. Very good reception, easy to use call log...I like this phone a lot!!
"Getting closer to the perfect phone." I am a certified phone fetishist. After replacing cordless phone after cordless phone, I have now found one to keep for a while. The AT&T 5800 has the best speakerphone in the industry! You can actually use it in real situations! It has the now rare battery backup feature. I rotate batteries between the handset and the battery backup compartment when ever the handset battery runs out. By never putting the handset in the cradle, this "use it up every time" method makes the batteries last a year or more. Great memory and paging functions. You have to love the blue light! I have dropped it on hard wood floors many times, unlike any other phone or TV remote, the battery and battery cover don't go flying all over. Small but crucial details for the phone connesuer."Excellent" Very good cordless phone. If I had to buy another I would do it again.
Uniden TRU-4485-2 2.4 GHz DSS Cordless Phone with Call Waiting, Digital Answering System, and Speakerphone
Uniden TRU-4485-2 2.4 GHz DSS Cordless Phone with Call Waiting, Digital Answering System, and Speakerphone
/Uniden
description: The sleekly designed Uniden TRU 4485-2 2.4 GHz digital spread spectrum cordless phone optimizes your communications at home or in a small office with dual handsets, call transfer, caller ID, a digital answering system, and speaker phone, among many other features.
The second handset stores in a charging cradle and permits the transfer of calls between handsets in different locations and lets you note the handset status with an LED indicator. The caller ID displays menus in Spanish, English, and French (with service subscription for call waiting and caller ID). Also included is convenient dialing with dynamic caller ID memory and last-three-number redial.
Uniden digital technology ensures clarity and security with features to provide all the basic benefits you look for in a phone. The TRU 4485-2 uses microchip technology requiring no message tapes, and the speakerphone gives you hands-free freedom and flexibility. Set your preference with distinctive rings: four melody ringers and six ring tones. You can scroll through caller ID and memory while on a call. An indicating light lets you know when you have voicemail waiting. The phone comes ready for a headset with a built-in jack. The NiMH battery has a long life with 10 days on standby and six hours of talk time.
comments: "Very pleased!" So far I have been pleased with this purchase.
Pros: Great reception and range. Great battery life. I talk on the phone a lot and sometimes forget to charge it for a day or two and have no problems. Clear sound quality. Ability to access messages from the handsets as well as the base. I purchased my set with headsets included and use them every time I'm on the phone, definite bonus for busy moms! Preprogrammed outgoing message for answering machine, but you can also record your own without overriding the original. So if you ever want to switch between the two, you can.
Cons: You do have to program each phone individually for storing numbers, changing ring tones, etc. Somewhat of a drawback, but not a major complaint.
If you are looking for a multiple handset system that you can have more than one person on the line at the same time, this won't work. Only one handset can be used at a time, and a call has to be "transferred" to the other handset. (for my purposes, this is not a big deal).
So far I have been happy with this phone. I'm still learning the different features that are available. It's not a complicated phone, but is definitely a lot different than my basic 900 mhz phone with no options.
"Good sound, Good range and Good recording" I've been looking for an answering machine/cordless phone to replace my old AT&T 5635. I needed better quality message recording and a speaker phone option. Most reviews complained about recording and/or speaker phone quality problems from VTech, AT&T and Panasonic. The Uniden line did not suffer from this shortcoming in most of the reviews I saw. Initially I was looking at the new 5.8Ghz model, but the price was more then I wanted to pay. I bought this 2.4Ghz model and it is everything I needed and then some. The only limitation I have noted is that you cannot talk on both cordless phones at the same time, but you can use one cordless and the base speaker phone together. You can also transfer a call from one cordless to another or to the base. Record time is limited to 10 minutes and can be set to limit each message to either 1 or 4 minutes. Not really a big deal for me, but if you get a lot of messages get a phone with larger memory. Reception is good, as is speaker/mic quality on the handsets. No static noted in my area."Good features but messes up my WAN" 2.4 GHz range is used by my WAN base station. Which makes it impossible for me to use both my phone and the WAN at the same time. This sux.
comments: "TI-82 vs. Other TIs" TI-82 Is great, I think!?!?? Am returning to college after 30 years. Decided to start with basic mathmatics. Will do Intro to Algebra next semester. On to a Math degree. I am preparing an alternate career to the one I am employed in. I am anticipating a lay off. Thought I would try teaching . . . Math! Anyway, can anyone tell me will the TI-82 do ok for Algebra? Then I could use my money to buy a TI 200 or 92 or 89. Use at home if I can't in class/tests. And . . . I inherited a TI-82. Long story. Please email: kerux@centramedia.net
"Fabulous Deal!" I missed the current sale of this particular calculator so my only option was to go online. I found this one for a super low price and received it merely a few days later....in great condition. It does every function it was meant to do and is easy to use!"Easy To Use" This is a great TI calculator expecialy for Pre-Algebra/Algebra students. You can do long math equasions with the press of a button. You can load cool programs on it that help you do lots of math functions, or play games.
Apple Cinema 20" Flat-Panel Display
Apple Cinema 20" Flat-Panel Display
/Apple Computer
description: Students and financial and science professionals, warm up your fingers. The HP 49G+ Graphing Calculator provides basic RPN, algebraic, and textbook entry through its redefinable alphanumeric keyboard. It boasts more than 2,300 built-in functions, with 1.13 MB of user memory. An easy-to-read display accommodates up to nine lines, 33 characters wide, giving you ample room for graphing.
Coupon included for a one-year subscription to Business 2.0 magazine.
The HP 49G+ also provides advanced statistical, mathematical, scientific, and programming features, and comes with a convenient carrying pouch, batteries, and even a USB cable.
What's in the Box HP 49G+ calculator, carrying pouch, batteries, USB cable, User's Manual (basic) and CD with User's Guide (advanced), connectivity software, coupon for one-year subscription to Business 2.0 magazine (valid through June 30, 2005)
comments: "It's just not user friendly" I've learned how to do all the basic functions the HP-49G+ can offer. I even bought a second one, since my first one wouldn't communicate with the SD chip. However, now that I want to write useful (sometime complex) programs, I find that HP has not provided the CASE tools or clear documentation to do that. What do they think, that we're going to enter and edit programs from the calculator's keypad - a keypad that is not comfortable to the touch, etc.? I don't think so. I long for the quality I loved in my old HP-41CV. Anyway, for the time being, I still have to rely on my old TI-86. It is extremely easy to program right on the PC (even has a basic editor as part of the Graph Link connectivity software). It is really saving my tail in a graduate statistics class I'm struggling with now. HP needs to get its calculator R&D department started up again. If I were in that group, I'd fix the keyboard, make the display brighter, make it as easy to use and program as the TI-86, add high-powered CASE tools to do program development on the PC (including an emulator, so I could test the program on the PC before loading it on the calculator), beef up the quality control processes, and provide spiral-bound manuals that are highly indexed, superbly organized, clearly written and has each and every function clearly explained with an example for how to use each one. All HP calculators from the HP-48 on back had user manuals that made it fun and easy to use the calculators. The current HP-49G+ manuals just don't cut it. While they're at it, HP should also offer a bunch of high-powered accessory software programs in all the key areas of math, science and engineering just as they used to with the HP-41 (i.e., as Microsoft does for the PC). Right now I should be able to buy a statistics software program that does absolutely everything that is covered in a graduate engineering statistics class. I don't have time to write such programs while in the middle of such a class. Quantity should not be confused with quality. Ideally the next new calculator from HP would run any program ever written for an HP calculator back to, and including, the HP-48. I would pay up to $300 (in a "New York Minute") to have all this right now. We have the technology to do this all now, but I fear it will take many years for HP to come around. For now, save your money... get a TI-86.
"hp keyboard" http://www.live-id.org/hp49gplus/ I found hi-res pictures on this website. Also: People have been complaining that hp49g+ keyboards dont work right. i emailed hp to hear the other side of the story; they replied the next day. Here's their reply on 7/19/2004:
"Thank you for contacting HP Total Care. The some of the early ones did have an actual issue with the keyboard. The new ones still 'click' and we have had a couple complaints that they were "loud" but they do work. ALL the time. If anyone still has one of the old ones, and it has this issue, we are replacing the calculator."
"Much better than 49G!" I was very disappointed with my 49G, but the 49G+ is a great remake. I have had an HP calculator since the 48GX, so I won't talk about the virtues of HP. If you know HP calculators, you know what you're getting. So, here are the pros/cons compared to previous HP calcs:
PROS: * Keyboard vastly improved over 49G, though not quite as good as 48G/GX. Few complaints here. * Hard leather case. No worry about smashing the screen like there was with the 48G's soft case. * Very quick. No delays between calling up a menu or in scrolling through the UI boxes. Very nice! * Includes USB connectivity cable and software. * Great price: $125 is what I paid. That's pretty good compared to what I paid for my 48GX and 49G brand new.
CONS: * Leather case fits tight, so it may actually turn on without you knowing it. * Plastic cover for 49G was convenient. No option for that here.
Other comments: * Same size as 49G in almost every dimension. * Feels solidly built.
Canon Borderless Photo Paper Plus, Glossy (7980A022, 4x6, 120 Sheets)
description: With your Canon digital photo printer, digital camera, and this gorgeous paper, you may never have to use traditional photo processing again. Designed to work with any Canon printer that accepts 4-by-6-inch paper, these borderless sheets look and feel remarkably like the paper used by professional labs--or maybe even a little better. With technical details like a 92 ISO brightness, 10.5 mil thickness, and 17.91 lb. media weight, you can be sure that your prints will show off rich contrast and realistic skin tones and will never ripple or curl around the edges. Now you can have snap photos that are worthy of framing. 120 sheets are included in the packet. The manufacturer provides a 90-day warranty against defects.
comments: "Stellar Photos" This paper is absolutely amazing with my Canon printer! I was surprised to find that the color was accurate, the prints very clear, and the paper was dry once it came out of my printer. I even "test smudged" the paper and there was not one run, smudge, or ink left on my fingers (unlike my first attempt on the crappy generic paper) I'm definitely reordering this stuff for my photo printing needs :)
"Great paper for your canon printer" I tested my new Canon i960 with a variety of papers. Like most printers, the output is much better when using the manufacture's own paper (as opposed to the cheaper generic paper), but there is no need to buy the most expensive "Pro" paper as neither I nor my wife could discern ANY difference between the two. There may be a benifit to the "Pro" paper that cannot be seen (lasts longer?) but at almost twice the cost it is not worth it - this paper will produce the highest quality prints on your Canon printer (I think they look better than the ones I get from the photo lab)."Absolutely amazing quality paper!" If you own a Canon photo printer then you should not hesitate to purchase this paper.
I recently purchased a Canon i860 Photo Printer and ordered some of this paper along with it. Imagine my amazement while the printer spit out a lab quality photo (borderless) in under 45 seconds on this paper. And yes, it truly is the paper that makes the difference.
I have tried other companies paper in my printer and can not achieve the same results. Using my 5 MP camera, I am getting better than lab photos with this paper. Better photos, I'm not joking.
The paper holds the ink nicely, so your photo is dry the instant your pinter has finished its last pass.
I had friends up one evening, took their photo, uploaded the picture and they had a photo in their hands in under 2 minutes. Their eyes were amazed, and they were truly speechless at the quality of this paper.
Do not skimp on the quality, if that is what you are after in paper. This is the paper for you.
HP OfficeJet 7310 All-in-One Printer
HP OfficeJet 7310 All-in-One Printer
/Hewlett Packard Office
description: Designed to meet the heavier shredding needs of the small business or home office, the Fellowes Powershred PS70-2CD Personal Strip-Cut Shredder can handle up to 15 sheets of paper per pass, to a maximum of 1,500 sheets per day. Its 9-inch entry can easily handle any legal or letter size documents, and its durable steel cutters shred paper into 0.2-inch strips which fall easily into the 7-gallon waste paper basket. Not limited to paper products, the PS70-2CD also accepts small paper clips, credit cards, staples, and even CDs (one per pass).
What's in the Box Shredder head with stand and power cord, 7-gallon basket, product manual, warranty information
comments: "Powerful Shredder for a Good Price" This is my third shredder. My last shredder (about $60 and a cross-cut shredder) lasted about 3 months before the motor went. I spent a lot of time researching available shredders and I knew that I had to spend more money if I was to get something that would last.
This shredder is excellent. I decided to buy a Fellowes brand because I purchased other Fellowes products for my small business, and they have performed wonderfully.
This shredder is built with the small office in mind. The motor is powerful, the feed is smooth, and the throat is wide. It is on the louder side but only because it is a strong motor. You can "hear" with every shred that this machine will stand up to the challenge of daily shredding of a small office for many years.
This is a strip-cut shredder and it provides satifactory security if that is a concern of yours. Although the cross-cut shredders provide a bit more security (because they shred into smaller pieces), I personally do not think they are worth the added cost and much shorter lifespan. This shredder has some nice features (you can see when it needs emptying and it lets you know if the basket is not aligned with the shredder/motor), but these are not important - it's all about how well this machine shreds, and how it can stand up to the demands of the office.
I am very happy with the performance of this shredder and I would buy another one.
"Its shredderific!" I bought this unit while preparing for a move (I didn't feel like taking, or leaving a million old bank statements). Its not perfect but it has a number of features you won't find in a $39.95 shredder.
First, its always on. It has a feed sensor so there's no need to hold the paper with one hand and the power switch with the other. Second, it will shread about 8-10 pages at a time, staples and all. Third, this model (the PS70-2CD) shreds credit cards and CDs. Awesome.
On the downside, with shredding capability like this the basket fills right up and you have to keep emptying it. Also with narrow strips like checks you have to feed right down the middle as the sensor that turns the unit on is mounted dead center--so if you feed something off to one side of the feed slot the sensor may not see it and will either fail to switch the unit on or stop before you're through.
That said, its worth the money. Heck, if Ken Lay had one of these babies he'd be on the golf course right now. Oh--I forgot...he is on the golf course.
Shred on!
Sony ICD-ST25 Portable Digital Voice Recorder
Sony ICD-ST25 Portable Digital Voice Recorder
/Sony
description: The 5.8 GHz VTech ip5850 dual handset system offers a wealth of telephony features: three-mailbox answering system, caller ID, speakerphone, intercom, 50-location phonebook, mute, volume control, page feature, and much more. With 5.8 GHz phone technology, you get ideal performance when it comes to clarity, range, and security. You're also on a much less trafficked area of the bandwidth than either the 2.4 GHz or 900 MHz frequencies.
comments: "Best phone I have ever had." I bought this phone a week ago and it's is the easiest phone to use. The clarity of the phone is the best. You can hear the the person on the other line perfectly. I have no complaints about this phone. It is worth every penney!
"Seems quality, but reverb in handset" Seems like a decent phone, no problems with static, works great outside....but at least one of the handsets has reverb when talking. For this reason, I'll probably return for another of the same or something different."A tremendous value." I have owned VTech phone systems from the first generation cordless up until this model, which replaced my 2.4 GHz system. This model is ideal for a single person or small family as it is not expandable, but you get two phone sets for a great price. The features are plentiful and easy to understand. I like the new rechargable batteries instead of the clunky cartridge in the older phones. Three mailboxes, 50 phone number storage (What's cool is you only punch in the numbers/names once and they are shared by both phones.), good sound quality, so I have no complaints yet. I didn't give this 5 stars because I don't know how it will stand the test of time. My 2.4 GHz system became a pain as it aged and the phone units discharged very quickly, even with new battery cartridges. Plus VTech did not say if you should let your phone units discharge off the charger or keep them sitting on the charger...a real dilemma because I wonder what is best for long battery life. But let's hope the new rechargable batteries do a better job...then I'll add the fifth star.
iRiver PMP-140 Portable Media Player (40 GB)
iRiver PMP-140 Portable Media Player (40 GB)
/iRiver
description: Take your audio and video media files with you wherever you go using iRiver's PMP-140 portable media player, the tiny player with fathomless storage abilities. The media player holds an incredible 40 GB of storage for not just music, but digital photos and full-color, full-motion video, too. The unit sports a 3.5-inch TFT LCD and an audio input so you can load audio content directly into the player from other home or portable devices--no PC required. It will double as a voice recorder, too, generating compressed-audio files from its onboard condenser microphone input.
The unit is PC-compatible, of course: connect it via high-speed USB 2.0 to transfer your media files to the PMP-140 in a jiffy. You can store up to 160 hours of video (using 320 x 240 resolution at 500 kbps, AVI format) or up to 1,200 hours of music (using Windows Media format at 64 kbps). The PMP-140's format compatibilities extend from MP3 to WMA (Windows Media Audio, with full Microsoft Digital Rights Management compatibility) to WMV and DivX (AVI) video and BMP/JPEG image files. Using a USB camera? Use the PMP-140 for on-the-go viewing with a direct USB connection.
The media player offers a built-in FM radio tuner and speaker, making it perfect for sporting events and headphones-free listening (iRiver earphones are included). You can connect it to your home stereo and/or television for additional listening or viewing flexibility. The media player's user-replaceable rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 5 hours of audio/video playback and 16 hours of audio-only use per charge.
What's in the Box Portable media player, iRiver earphones, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a carrying case, USB 2.0 device cable, USB 1.1 host cable, line-in cable, TV out cable, a user's manual, an installation CD, and an AC power adapter.
comments:
Uniden EXI 5160 5.8 GHz Cordless Phone with Caller ID
Uniden EXI 5160 5.8 GHz Cordless Phone with Caller ID
/Uniden
description: A 5.8 GHz analog cordless phone from Uniden, the EXI 5160 comes with a number of useful features and provides both a high-quality signal and reliable operation. Stylish and affordable, the EXI 5160 is a good choice for those uninterested in extraneous bells and whistles. By utilizing the less cluttered 5.8 GHz frequency, the EXI 51601 is able to offer clearer, more intelligible reception than traditional phones operating on crowded 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz bands. An autoscan features automatically detects the channel with the least interference.
Caller ID/call waiting compatible, the EXI 5160 can store up to 30 numbers in the caller ID memory, while the display-and-dial feature lets you easily scroll through the list of calls and dial with the touch of a button. Up to 10 memory locations are available for the most frequently dialed numbers, and a RocketDial feature allows you to dial the most important number simply by pressing the RocketDial button. Each memory location supports up to 20 digits for numbers which require chain dialing.
Handset and ringer volume controls allow you to easily adjust the phone's settings to your liking. A page button on the base makes finding a lost handset quick and painless, while the menu-driven handset LCD makes operation easy. The auto-talk function lets you answer calls simply by removing the phone from its cradle. A 32 digit redial button lets you easily call the last outgoing number, while both tone and pulse dialing modes are provided in case you need to switch to one or the other. Wall-mountable, the EXI 5160 is headset compatible and comes with a belt clip for hands-free operation. It also comes backed with a one-year warranty on both parts and labor.
What's in the Box Base, handset, AC adapter, battery, telephone cord, belt clip, owner's manual, warranty information
comments: "So far, it's a great value" I bought this phone a few weeks ago at Target and I am quite pleased with it. It has nearly all the features I was looking for (exception is a backlit keypad, but I really don't tend to make calls in the dark- the display is illuminated, though) and none of the extras that would cost more and go unused (I already have voicemail, so I did not need a built-in answering system). The price is very reasonable, especially for a 5.8 MHz phone, and the phone itself is simple to use. The sound quality has been very good and I haven't had any problems with range. Based on all the negative reviews I'd read about so many of the cordless phones out there, I thought I'd never find a good phone that was well-priced, but I think I've actually succeeded.
"The clearest of any phone in the 'GHz family' I've used" I've been through several cordless phones over the years, from 900MHz analog to 2.4GHz digital spread spectrum....Panasonic, GE, VTech, Uniden, Siemens, etc. In fact, I recently returned 2 Panasonic 2.4GHz phones because of consistent complaints from people on the other end that some of my words and even complete sentences were getting cut off. I also got a lot of voice echoing with the Panasonics, a trait of every Panasonic digital I've owned or tried. The Uniden EXI 5160 so far has never had these problems and is hands-down the clearest cordless phone in the 'GHz family' I've used. Very natural sounding, unlike the 'digitized' incoming voices of many other phones. I live in a large 2-story home with the base unit upstairs in my office, and it's crystal clear throughout the house, garage and greenhouse. Never a hint of clicking, static, or interference of any kind. Venturing away from the house outside will produce slight interference now and then, but I don't make it a habit of using my cordless phones for conversations 2 bocks away, so it's not a concern. That's what cell phones are for. Unlike 2.4GHz phones that are affected by microwave ovens in use, the 5160 is not affected at all. Handset volume is good, and easily adjusted via convenient buttons on the handset. Battery life (talk time/standby time) seems to be excellent, although I haven't pushed either to the limits...but have had the handset off the base for 5 days at a time with plenty of talk time to spare. Comfortable handset design, easy to hold and easy on the ear. Controls are well placed and the display is easy to read. The 5160's features are basic....no bells and whistles....and include:
~Tone/Pulse dialing ~Hearing aid compatible ~Page/Find handset ~Caller ID with menu/30-name storage and memory dial ~3-Line display ~32 Digit redial ~Rocket dial, which stores one number that's used most and accessed by pressing one button ~Flash (accessed via Talk button) ~Redial ~Channel select ~Pause ~Headset jack ~Handset volume controls conveniently located (3 levels) ~Ringer volume/tone control (5 levels) ~Hearing aid compatible ~Low battery alert ~Wall mountable ~10-name/number memory for personal contacts, which can be scrolled through by pressing the Memory button, then using the volume Up/Down buttons.
Charging battery for first time requires 15-20 hrs. NOTE: Memory dialing can store up to 15 characters and 20 digits per entry, which means any of the "10-10" numbers can be easily programmed in.
Complaints? (1) No battery life indicator in display (2) Limited memory for storing personal contacts...only 10 names/numbers, although another phone number can be programmed into the 'rocket dial' feature (3) No mute
If you need to store more than 10 personal contacts or looking for a lot of bells and whistles, this phone isn't for you. But if you want an extremely clear, no-nonsense cordless that excels at communication performance, comfort and battery life, the 5160 may be what you're looking for. Please keep in mind that cordless phones can perform quite differently depending on the area where you live, interference from outside sources, base placement, etc. My observations are based on my particular conditions and location. I paid $65 at Target, but watch for deals during the holidays. I noticed in our Sunday paper today that Best Buy has the 5160 for $59.99, so plan to head back to Target and do a little price shopping....get a few more bucks back.
description: Boasting a stylish, ultramodern design, the Polycom SoundStation Premier is blissfully easy to install and employs state-of-the-art technology for strong performance.
The SoundStation is designed to sit in the middle of a conference room table, preferably in a room no larger than 30 by 40 feet. The wall module power pack includes a short telephone cable that plugs into a modular wall jack. That's it--installation really is that simple, and you're ready to make a call.
If only a couple of people are participating in a call, the SoundStation unit alone, without the extra microphones, should be sufficient. For three or more people, however, you'll want to install the two extended microphones, which provide natural conversation with multiple participants. Polycom recommends that speakers sit at least three feet from the microphones. During our tests, recipients of our calls complained of echoing problems when we sat too close to the mikes. Though the recipients said our voices had that faraway sound often associated with speakerphone calls, the quality of the reception was clear.
If you're holding a call at a large conference table, you'll want to use the remote control to dial, place callers on hold, and control the volume level. You can also use the remote to program up to six numbers into memory. Unfortunately, you can't program numbers on the SoundStation's keypad.
The SoundStation supports three-way conference calling via the flash button, and the wall module features an auxiliary out jack so you can record conversations on a standard tape recorder. The system also supports use of Lavalier wireless microphones.
If you're looking for a phone system conducive to a conference room environment, Polycom's SoundStation Premier is an ideal solution. --John Frederick Moore
description: Students, researchers, and professionals who value the convenience and plentiful features of the C Pen will appreciate the expanded memory, rechargeable battery, and crisp display in the 800C. This study and business tool, which is nearly as small and light as a standard highlighter, speeds your efforts to gather research information.
Use it to capture text from any printed source; it can store up to 3,000 pages of printed text and PC files. Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, with 215,000 definitions and translations, is integrated as a standard feature, and you can download up to 11 different language dictionaries from the manufacturer. The 800C is also equipped to receive text messages, and the display can show six crisp lines of text at a time.
The C Pen 800 is Windows compatible and interacts with PDAs made by Palm, Visor or Sony. You can transfer information via infrared port or serial cable, and the C Pen is designed for left- or right-handed users. A serial cable is included, as is a one-year warranty.
comments: "The people at C-Pen do not exagerate!" When the people at C-Pen say their product is "a stroke of genius" they do not exagerate. Since I bought my C-Pen 800C a couple of months ago, it has become a permanent companion in my academic activity. Two of its functions are particularly impressive, namely "Notes" (the scanner) and "C-Dictionary". Once you get the hang of it, "C-Write" is also very good (though I would have preferred it if they had adopted the Palm graffiti alphabet, so as not to make palm users like myself spend extra time learning the new alphabet). Of special interest for academic use is the possibility of storing the notes you have taken in different files and folders, thereby helping you organize the information gathered.
The precision of C-Pen 800C's OCR is excellent, not only when reading texts written in English, but also in other languages (though I must concede that my experience has been reduced to texts in Spanish, German and French).
Synchronization with the PC is very easy and the use of C-Direct, by means of which we can scan a text directly into the computer, is easy and precise. As for the remaining utilities (address book, calender, etc.) I have nothing to say, since I have not tried to use them.
To wrap up, I simply want to say that this is a great instrument for academic use. Once you've learned to use it you won't understand how in the world you could ever have done research without it in the past!
"Excellent Service and Product" As a research historian preparing for law school I found the C-Pen 800 invaluable. The only thing better than the pen itself was the customer service and care from the folks at Solutionworks. Especial thanks to Kevin for all the tech support for someone who is a technological barbarian (that would be me!)
The pen itself takes a bit of getting used to. At first I tried scanning very slow and deliberately; this was a mistake. The C-Pen likes a faster scan rate across the page.
Using yellow highlighter actually seemed to help, as did the calibration feature.
I personally preferred using the manual rather than the automatic trigger due to the curviture of the page in thicker books. In the automatic mode if the trigger lost contact with the page part of a word would be broken off. In manual mode I seemed to have greater accuracy. Likewise I found using it without the cord, and then transferring data to be faster. The cord always seemed to be in the way, and at the speed that the C-Pen likes for accurate scanning it was a nuisance.
For someone who needs to extract key pieces of information quickly and conveniently this is a great tool.
Doug
"Practical, effective and a time saver 5 Oct 02" After reading the reviews on the 800C and given my slow typing from textbooks, I felt confident enough to buy one from the distributor when Amazon was out of stock. Based on the reviews on ZDnet and PCMag (reviews are hard to find and reliable net purchase sites more so), and my initial 3 day trial, the CPen 800C has proven an effective pen scanner. Bear in mind I am not a techie.
As a law student with lots of readings and time consuming case summaries (notes) to type out, this product has afforded me more time for social events rather than living in the library or glued to a computer. I do not use the dictionary function or any other features so as not to tie up memory or processor speed (I could be misguided on this point). The 800C model came with the combined power adaptor and dowload serial cable, leather case, instruction manual and a software CD. Initially I was confused by their web site's offer for the USB adaptor. The latter is crucial if you are using a new computer that has done away with serial ports, offering only USB ports. If so, then you may need the USB adaptor.
Although I had difficulty processing my order on the CPen recommended US site, it was either due to my foreign credit card or some detail with my Canadian "home" address. Kevin, from customer service, was apologetic and assured me my order would push through. To his credit, he even called me back at my number so I didn't have to pay long distance charges. My net order arrived at a US designated address within 3 days via UPS with the correct billings on my credit card. Kevin continues to help me trouble shoot via e-mail and has been most helpful and patient with my attempt to get the CPen working with Mac OSX.
The 800C can indeed scan approximately 15 cm of text at one go. Bear in mind that after 15 cm of scanning text, a pause of a few seconds is needed for the processor to translate the text onto the display. If you scan more text while the processor is still translating, the pen will beep to alert you that it's still processing the previous text.
When scanning words or phrases selectively, it's virtually instantaneous. Accuracy depends on the user's skill and care in scanning. While it is not difficult to use, the CPen web site is correct in stating the scanning should be with the least possible amount of red light escaping from the tip of the pen. This can be learned with a few attempts. To start a new sentence or a new paragraph, just tap the retractable sensor at the tip of the pen once and twice accordingly.
Before I read the QnA section of the CPen web site, my scanning accuracy was about 65-70%. Bear in mind legal cases have numerous names, brackets, and abbreviations for the processor to figure out. However I am happy the CPen has scanned correctly most of the Latin words in my readings. I would estimate the accuracy now to be 85-95% range, again, depending on my varying care in scanning and the complex names and abbreviations. Normal sentences can come out perfect. Bear in mind I am scanning from good to high quality text, not poor print.
To start a new file, I just scan the text heading for the name of the folder. I still read and highlight my books to make sure I don't end up scanning too much or repeated case decisions/analysis before I use the CPen. The more purposeful scanning definitely increases the accuracy of the text. Contrary to some warnings, my 800C DOES scan yellow, orange, purple and pink high lighted text (Mon Ami Handy Highlighter and Sanford Accent high lighters). Blue and green produce illegible errors. EDIT ON A COMPUTER.
Transferring of text is also easy, either through the IR feature or the serial cable. Personally, the IR is much faster. Initially I empathized with those who could not download or transfer their data. The problems were with the notebook I was using and not the CPen. For trouble shooting, go to CPen.com, click "Support" and choose "QnA". The problems I encountered required the turning on of the Notebook's IR feature, or to get an unused communications port for the serial cable to work. If your notebook requires re-installation of the IR software, then I certainly hope you have the original CD!
The "QnA" is a very useful page and I've solved my download problems on the PC. I have been successful using the IR transfer on a Toshiba and an Acer notebook. Serial cable transfer with the Acer was also successful. I did not try on the Toshiba but don't see why it wouldn't work if you read the QnA page on the web. The rest is just drag and drop onto your PC for word processor editing.
My challenge now is to get it to work with my Mac G4. I am told the download software does not work with OS X, but since the machine comes with Mac Classic, OS 9.2, I am awaiting the arrival of a USB adaptor cable (and do check with cable suppliers if their product is compatible with scanners or buy it directly from CPen) to hook up with the serial cable as the G4 doesn't have an IR port. The Mac OS downloads state the software works with OS8 - OS9.1. I'll post another note if and when I can get it to work with OS 9.2
Given my slow typing from textbooks, and if one consults the CPen website to learn how to better use it, the CPen 800C is a great handheld scanner. It is also very useful for library research, recording the research maps of statutes and regulation history, without having to jot down what or where you've been looking. If you do not need the other functions, and they could possibly work well if you took the time to learn it, I am confident you will find this product very satisfactory.
Motorola MD751 5.8 GHz Digital Expandable Cordless Phone with Caller ID (Black/Silver)
Motorola MD751 5.8 GHz Digital Expandable Cordless Phone with Caller ID (Black/Silver)
/Motorola
description: Multi-member household seeks cordless phone with growth potential, good looks, and plenty of features. Sound like you? Consider the Motorola MD751 5.8 GHz digital cordless phone system.
Expandable by adding up to seven Motorola MD71 accessory handsets (sold separately) for a total of eight, the MD751 offers the features modern consumers want: visual call waiting and voicemail waiting indicator, Caller ID with a 50-number memory, hands-free handset-to-handset intercom and room monitoring, three-way conferencing, speakerphone, and selectable ring tones. What's more, the Motorola MD751 offers an easy-to-dial illuminated keypad and a backlit four-line LCD with helpful features, such as time and date display and easy-to-navigate icons.
A thoughtful battery meter lets you monitor the handset's standard battery (NiCD) charge, and a battery back-up (four AAA batteries, not included) ensures that you'll never completely run out of juice. The MD751 comes with a belt clip and is headset compatible (headset not included). It is also wall mountable for versatile placement anywhere in your home.
What's in the Box MD751 (base and handset), NiCD battery pack, transformer, phone line cord, belt clip, wall mount, user's guide, warranty information
description: The Apple Cinema Display series lets you focus your creative energies by keeping your desktop layout simple. Edit images and web pages up to two full pages at a time, or view multiple video streams or DVDs in full widescreen. Delivering up to 1,680 x 1,050-pixel resolution, the new 20-inch Apple Cinema Display offers twice the brightness, twice the sharpness, and twice the contrast ratio of the typical CRT display.
Wide viewing angles (170 degrees horizontal and vertical) enable easy placement in your workstation, and Apple's ColorSync technology allows you to create custom profiles to maintain consistent color onscreen and in print. Pixel response time is fast for seamless full-motion video. Although Apple does not provide a specific pixel response time (usually stated in milliseconds), it claims that the monitor is designed to respond quickly across the entire color spectrum, while most manufacturers report only the transition from black to white.
The pure digital interface delivers distortion-free images that never need adjusting, meaning that user controls are streamlined and kept to a minimum. Compatible with the Power Mac G4 desktop series or PowerBook G4 laptops, the 20-inch Apple Cinema Display does require Mac OS X v10.2 or higher and connects through the Apple Display Connector (ADC) cable for digital video, USB, and power.
comments: "Two USB conector, and a power switch" It is not jut the best Display I ever had see. I solve two other "problems" in Mac use: It give tho more USB conectors and it have a switch to turn your Mac On. If you can afford the price, I recomend.
"Wonderful Monitor" I write from the college newspaper and we use this monitor to work on the lay-out for the paper each week. This monitor is great because the graphics are clear. We also run programs like Adobe Photoshop, and the graphics are awesome with that program as well. This monitor just works great. We haven't had any problems with it!"i love it" i have had mine for 4 months - no problems -- I switch it between my G4 and G5, I'm going to get a Apple 17" soon for the G4. My wife doesn;t think I need both and announced ownership of the G4.
description: Ever feel like you need a second phone? The KX-TG2344B from Panasonic may be the solution, since it's packaged with a second handset and charging cradle. It also comes with a built-in answering system, helping you to consolidate all your communications needs in one easy-to-use machine.
The all-digital answering machine has a 15-minute maximum recording time and can be operated remotely, allowing you to stay on top of your incoming messages even while you are away from home. You can set the outgoing message length to one, two, or three minutes, while voice prompts guide you through operation of the answering system. An LCD call counter lets you know how many messages you have waiting, and a time/date stamp lets you know when each message was received. Additionally, all messages are stored in Flash memory, so if you ever experience a power outage, your messages will be there when you get back up and running.
Caller ID and call waiting compatible, the KX-TG2344B stores up to 30 incoming names and numbers. The log is easily accessible via the handset LCD, while a 32-number phone directory helps you to keep track of all your most frequently used phone numbers. A new message indicator lets you know when you have messages waiting, while a low-battery indicator lets you know when to return the phone to its cradle for recharging.
If you are running short on countertop space, fret not, the KX-TG2344B is wall-mountable. Handset and ringer controls allow you to adjust volume levels to your liking, while an illuminated keypad makes dialing a snap, even in the dark. Headset compatible for hands-free communication, this phone also comes with a belt clip. A page/handset locator lets you easily find a lost handset, and voice paging from the base allows you to communicate with both handsets at the same time. An intercom function lets you talk between handsets or between a handset and the base, while three-way conferencing allows you to communicate with multiple parties at once.
By transmitting on the 2.4 GHz band and utilizing a digital spread spectrum signal and Panasonic's voice enhancer technology, this phone is able to offer clearer reception and greater range than many older cordless phones. Easy-to-use and packed with useful features, the KX-TG2344B also comes backed with a one year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Base, two handsets, two AC adapters/chargers, two rechargeable battery packs, two belt clips, two handset battery covers, one telephone line cord, instructions
comments: "Just what I was looking for" Just purchased. Great phone. Exactly what I was looking for with all the bells & whistles. Couldn't have asked for more clarity. Extra handset.... Big bonus.
"Great phone" This is a very nice phone. Excellent range and very clear. Havent had a good one like this in a long time. Usually bought Uniden but my last few didnt last long and was always having clarity problems. Anyway, this Panasonic phone is wonderful. Its easy to use and set up. Having two cordless headsets is great. In my bedroom I dont have a phone jack and this setup is perfect for my situation. I can now leave my one phone in my computer room and have the other in my bedroom. No more dragging around the cordless phone. Thanks Panasonic for making a great product."No problems" This phone is highly recommended.I have never gone wrong with a Panasonic phone. This one has all the bells and whistles. Easy to set up, with a very understandable interface and owners manual.
Motorola MD61 5.8 GHz Accessory Handset for MD600 Series Phones
Motorola MD61 5.8 GHz Accessory Handset for MD600 Series Phones
/Motorola
description: Designed for use with Motorola's MD600 series expandable cordless phones, the MD61 utilizes the less cluttered 5.8 GHz frequency and employs digital technology, offering clearer, more intelligible reception. An auto-scan features automatically detects the best channel available.
The MD61 has a number of useful features, including 50 phonebook locations, built-in speakerphone for hands-free operation, caller ID/call waiting capability, and three-way conferencing. The VibraCall setting silently alerts you to incoming calls. A redial button lets you easily call the last dialed number, while the intercom feature lets you communicate with other handsets on the same system. The hold button lets you pick up incoming calls utilizing call waiting, and a visual call waiting feature indicates a second incoming call.
The NiCd battery has an 8-hour battery life (5 days on standby), while the low-battery indicator lets you know when to return the handset to its base. A page button on the base makes finding a lost handset quick and painless, and the backlit keypad and handset LCD screen make operation easy, even in the dark. The MD61 also comes backed with a one-year warranty on both parts and labor.
What's in the Box Handset, remote charger stand, AC adapter, Ni-Cd battery pack, instructions
comments:
Motorola MD71 5.8 GHz Cordless Accessory Handset for MD700 Series Phones
Motorola MD71 5.8 GHz Cordless Accessory Handset for MD700 Series Phones
/Motorola
description: Expand your Motorola MD 700 series cordless phone system (required, sold separately) with the addition of these MD71 accessory handsets. Each handset supports all the great features of your base system, whether it's caller ID, visual call-waiting and voicemail-waiting indicators, hands free and handset-to-handset intercom functions, room monitoring, three-way conferencing, speakerphone, even selectable ring tones. Consults your base station's documentation for full feature information.
Each MD71 accessory handset comes with it's own charging cradle, NiCD battery, belt clip, and complete instructions on how to add it to your base system. No additional phone jack is required; all you need is an electrical outlet.
What's in the Box One MD71 (handset and charging cradle), NiCD battery pack, transformer, belt clip, instructions, warranty information
comments:
Plantronics S12 Corded Telephone Headset System
Plantronics S12 Corded Telephone Headset System
/Plantronics
description: The S12 telephone headset system from Plantronics provides a hands-free method of communication which works with all single and multi-line phones. With convenient over-the-ear and over-the-head configurations, you can adjust the headset for maximum comfort, while volume and mute controls provide a way to adjust headset audio levels for maximum convenience. The noise-canceling microphone and Call Clarity technology deliver clear, easily-intelligible sound, and an in-use indicator light provides a visual phone status indicator.
With a 5.75-by-9.0-inch footprint, the S12 fits easily onto available desktop space, while a headset stand provides a convenient resting place for the headset. The S12 weighs just 2 pounds and comes backed by a one-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Headset amplifier, convertible, two-in-one headset with noise-canceling microphone and Firefly in-use boom indicator light, headband for wearing over the head, ear loop for wearing over the ear, AC adapter, user's guide
comments:
Creative Zen Micro 5 GB MP3 Player White
Creative Zen Micro 5 GB MP3 Player White
/Creative Labs
description: The Zen Micro digital music player from Creative Labs packs an incredible 5 GB of storage capacity into a shell small enough to sit comfortably in your jeans pocket. It also rides nicely in your hand, with a palm-fitting profile and thumb-friendly front-panel controls. It's a bit shorter than an Apple iPod Mini, yet its rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 12 hours of continuous playback--50 percent more than iPod Mini's. The Zen Micro is compatible not merely with MP3s and WAV files, but with WMA as well. Toss in USB 2.0 connectivity and you're looking at one spiffy portable music player.
Zen Micro's rechargeable battery is easy to replace.
For navigation, the device features a vertical, linear touchpad designed to make searching through songs or playlists easy, quick, and fun. The unit's blue, 160 x 104-pixel, electroluminescent LCD shows key functions and song details at a glance, and you can even customize the main menu to keep right at your fingertips the features that matter most to you.
Another of the Zen Micro's handy features is its personal organizer. You'll never forget an important anniversary with the onboard calendar, and it also includes a to-do list and a contacts list, all of which sync seamlessly with Microsoft Outlook (Outlook thus required for use of these features). In addition, the device offers a sleep timer and alarm so you can drift off to sleep to the strains of one playlist and wake to a completely different one.
The Zen Micro's removable battery is easy to swap with another fully charged battery (additional batteries sold separately), extending your listening by a half-day per swap.
What's in the Box The Zen Micro player, stereo earbud headphones, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, an AC/DC power adapter, a USB 2.0 cable, a belt clip, a stand, a stylish cloth pouch, an installation CD, a quick-start guide, and Creative MediaSource software.
comments:
Apple Cinema 30" HD Flat-Panel Display
Apple Cinema 30" HD Flat-Panel Display
/Apple Computer
comments: "Preview Of the new Apple Cinema Dsiplay" Pros- 1)great thin design 2)biggest HD LCD Display ever 3)Wonderful Picture Quality amazing! 4)has firewire inputs 5)Can hook up additional display WOW!
Cons- 1)Can't Be used With PC-(but the 20" and 23" can) 2)Need different Graphic card just to use it
? Why does the design serve as a problem to whom own a power book G4 and like to place it under their Display the New design prohibits this.
Bottom_____________ This is a great LCD display with amazing clearity,has Dule monitor support. but has to have all new graphics card and design proibits the place of your laptop to slide underneath the display.
OVER ALL preview rating a 9.5 of 10.00
VTech 40-2421 2.4 GHz DSS 4-Line Expandable Cordless Phone with Caller ID
VTech 40-2421 2.4 GHz DSS 4-Line Expandable Cordless Phone with Caller ID
/VTech
description: The 40-2421 from VTech is a four-line, multi-user expandable phone system designed for the small office or busy home. It consists of a base unit, which supports up to four phone lines, and one cordless handset. As your needs grow, you can add up to 11 model VT 40-2420 handsets, for a total of 12. Each handset/charger stand can be placed anywhere you have a power outlet, eliminating the need for additional phone jacks and complicated wiring procedures. The intercom feature lets you communicate with other handsets, while the call transfer function provides a convenient way to route incoming calls from one handset to another. The conference feature allows you to communicate with multiple outside parties, or conference-in an additional handset.
The 40-2421 utilizes 2.4 GHz digital spread spectrum technology, which provides clearer reception over larger distances than traditional cordless phones operating on lower bands and transmitting an analog signal. Call-waiting and caller ID compatible, the phone stores up to 50 numbers in memory, while the speed dial feature lets you quickly dial the 20 most frequently used numbers. A headset jack and handset speakerphone offer comfortable hands-free options.
Handset and ringer volume controls are provided, as are both tone and pulse dialing modes. With the auto pick-up setting turned on, you can answer calls simply by removing the handset from its cradle. A visual voicemail message indicator alerts you when you have messages waiting. (Voicemail, call waiting, and caller ID require subscriptions through your local phone company.) The 40-2421 comes backed by a one-year limited warranty on both parts and labor.
What's in the Box Base unit and power adapter, handset, handset charger and power adapter, handset battery pack, wall-mount bracket, telephone line cord (x2), belt clip, user's manual
comments: "Nice idea, poor implementation" We've been very happy with our VTech 2431 single-line 2.4MHz phone system for the past few years, so now that we have three lines this looked like just the right thing. Unfortunately this system appears to have been designed by a completely different team. The handsets are very large (too large to fit into a pocket), the menus are more difficult to use, the speed-dial feature is extremely clumsy, and the signal quality is very poor, with lots of hissing in the background. We've sent this one back and replaced it with a two-line VTech 20-2431 system, which is much more like the original 2431 and doesn't suffer from the problems of the 40-2421 series.
Infocus Screen Play 4805 750 Lumens WSVGA Projector
sorry no image
Infocus Screen Play 4805 750 Lumens WSVGA Projector
/InFocus
description: Acer's AL1912 19-inch LCD monitor offers good value and strong performance at a low price. Featuring 1,280 x 1,024 native resolution, fine 0.294 mm dot pitch, 250 nits of brightness, and a crisp 500:1 contrast ratio, the AL1912 delivers rich images in nearly any setting. And, with a 16 ms response time, the AL1912 is fast enough for gaming and watching your favorite DVDs.
The AL1912 features wide 140-degree viewing from any direction plus optional wall mounting for versatile placement. Additional features include a full range of front panel controls and Kensington lock compatibility. The AL1912 is backed by a three-year warranty on parts and labor.
What's in the Box AL1912 monitor and base, power cable, signal cable, user guide, warranty information
description: With its small size and quick reaction time, the Sony DSCP73 digital camera will be your constant photographic companion. The affordable DSCP73 offers point-and-shoot simplicity with a variety of features normally found in higher-end models. This 4-megapixel camera features a 3x optical zoom, 4-shot burst mode, conversion lens compatibility, A/V connection to view images on your TV, and a high-resolution movie mode that's limited only by your Memory Stick's capacity. For a step up in price, the Sony DSCP93 adds a 5-megapixel CCD, higher resolution LCD screen, and 9-shot burst mode.
Optics and Resolution The 1/2.7-inch Super HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD allows more light to pass to each pixel, increasing sensitivity and reducing noise, and provides a 4.1-megapixel effective resolution (2304 x 1728). The Real Imaging Processor offers greater clarity and picture quality as well as improved response time and battery life and decreased shutter lag. The DSCP73 has a 3x optical zoom lens that's combined with a smooth 2x digital zoom for a 6x total.
Movie Mode Capture video with audio at 30 frames per second (fps) at VGA size 640 x 480; the included 16 MB memory card will store 42 seconds of vide at this setting. Movie length is only limited by the amount of storage you have on hand. The Video Mail mode captures a smaller movie (160 x 112 pixels) that's more suitable to sending to friends and family via e-mail.
More Features The DSCP73 offers the following additional features to the DSCP41:
Live Histogram Display: Available in capture and playback, the Live Histogram displays the concentration of pixels at each luminosity value making it easy to evaluate the correct exposure.
Manual Exposure Mode: Manual Exposure Mode provides extended control with 46-step adjustable Shutter speed (30 Ð 1/1000 sec.), and 2-step Aperture control.
Conversion Lens Compatibility: Increase your shooting options by adding either telephoto lenses to increase your optical zoom or wide-angle lenses to increase the width of your field of view. You can even add filters for special effects.
Audio/Video Output: For reviewing images and MPEG movies, the DSCP73 offers an A/V output for convenient connection to a TV or VCR, this makes sharing images with family and friends easy.
Other features include:
Resolution modes: 2304 x 1728 (4.1MP), 2048 x 1536 (3MP), 1280 x 960 (1MP), 640 x 480 (VGA)
1.5-inch, 64K LCD monitor makes framing shots and reviewing pictures easy.
Selectable Focus Mode: Monitoring AF (Auto Focus) helps you anticipate the action by focusing even before you press the shutter release.
5 Area Multi-Point Auto Focus: By evaluating 5 separate focus areas of the frame, SonyÕs Multi-Point AF system can intelligently focus on the subject and avoid mistakenly focusing on the background.
AF (Auto Focus) Illuminator: Briefly illuminating the subject, in low--or no--light conditions, the AF Illuminator helps establish a positive focus lock.
Multi-Pattern Measuring: Independently light-metering 49 points of the frame, Multi-Pattern Measuring establishes the optimum exposure, even when highlight and shadow isnÕt centered in the frame.
Multi-Burst Mode: Captures 16 320 x 240 frames as part of a single 1280 x 960 image which plays back sequentially in the camera (selectable 1/7.5, 1/15, 1/30 second).
Scene Selection Mode: With 6 Scene Modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions. Choose from one of the following: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Soft Snap, Candle, or Beach.
Slow Shutter Noise Reduction: During long exposures, Slow Shutter NR captures the scene, and then the CCD noise pattern with a dark frame exposure. By subtracting the two, even long exposures can be clear.
Pre-Flash Metering: With a momentary pre-flash, the camera illuminates the subject and sets exposure through the lens for accurate flash metering. Adjustable flash level and red-eye reduction ensure great flash shots.
4 Shot Burst Mode: Capture up to 4 shots (fine) or 6 shots (standard) at 1.3 frames/sec. even at 4 MP resolution. Perfect for high speed subjects or fast moving action such as sports.
Direct Printing The Cybershot DSCP73 offers PictBridge functionality, which enables you to transfer pictures from your digital camera to a compatible printer--such as the Sony PictureStation DPP-EX50--without a PC or image-editing software. Images can be viewed and selected for printing right on the camera's LCD, with menus for print quantity, date, and index print.
Storage and Transfer Images are stored on Memory Sticks, and the Cybershot DSCP73 is compatible with Memory Stick Pro media--for storage up to 1 gigabyte. The included 16 MB Memory Stick will store 8 Fine and 14 Standard 4.1-megapixel images. The DSCP73 transfers images to PCs and Macs via a speedy USB 2.0 connection (which is backward compatible with USB 1.1 ports).
Power and Size The camera is powered by two rechargeable NiMH AA-sized batteries (2100 mAh). The included adapter/charger provides power while you transfer images from the camera to your PC. It measures 4.63 x 2.13 x 1.38 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 7 ounces without Memory Stick or batteries.
What's in the Box This package contains the Sony DSCP73 digital camera, 16 MB Memory Stick, two AA-size NiMH rechargeable batteries (NH-AA-DA), battery charger (BC-CS2), A/V and USB cables, wrist strap, and CD-ROM with photo editing software.
Sony Photo Vault The optional Sony Photo Vault mini CD burner eliminates worry about running out of space on your Memory Stick when travelling. It burns images to mini CD-R's without a PC interface--just connect your camera using a USB cable. The Photo Vault also has a Memory Stick slot (compatible with Memory Stick Pro and Duo) and features a built-in photo album capability to display photos on a television screen using a television's standard AV input.
comments: "Great for pictures -- not great for videos" We bought this camera as an upgrade from our Canon A40. The big feature for us (after the fabulously quick shutter speed) was the ability to take unlimited videos. (Most other cameras limit the video length because they must buffer the image, whereas Sony cameras can write directly to their memory cards.)
However, we've decided to return the camera. There are 3 movie modes. With a 256 MB memory stick (about $100), you get about 3 minutes of video on the best setting. On the medium setting, you get 10 minutes of video. The third setting does give you 2 hours of video, but is completely unusable. The audio is very poor and the image is blurry and pixelated.
We're disappointed that Sony didn't offer a movie mode in between the terrible 160 mode and the Standard 640 mode. A friend's Sony, now over 4 years old, has such an inbetween setting, and we figured this would be an example of the quality of this Cybershot's lowest setting. Not so!
"Great camera" This is our first digital camera and so far we love it. It feels very solid and the pictures are really great. The camera is very easy to use for pictures and for video. I have not used any of the different picture settings but I did read the manual and they seem easy to use. The camera comes with batteries and a charger but no AC adapter. This is the only reason (no AC adapter) I gave the camera 4 stars instead of 5. I would recommend buying the AC adapter so you don't use the batteries too fast or an extra set of batteries so you always have a charged pair of batteries."Sony Cybershot DSCP73" My husband & I wanted a good digital camera but did not want to spend a bundle. We own other Sony products and know the products are usually high end. We are pleased again with another Sony product. The camera is a little bulky, but the pictures look wonderful and the capability is amazing. More than enough to keep us non-techies amazed!
Logitech io2 Digital Writing System (965118-0403)
Logitech io2 Digital Writing System (965118-0403)
/Logitech
description: Putting an end to speakerphones that clip sound, the Polycom VoiceStation 100 features full-duplex performance, so that everyone can both talk and listen simultaneously. The stylishly designed phone system offers three microphones and one speaker for conference calls with up to four participants, making it suitable only for smaller venues.
Customers looking for larger-scale conferencing systems will need to look elsewhere, but the VoiceStation 100 competes well within its price range. Additional features, such as a data port, and mute, flash, hold, and redial buttons make the phone easy and practical to use. This model is also wall mountable. The Polycom VoiceStation 100 comes with a one-year warranty.
comments: "Excellent for office conferences." I use it for my SOHO and it works great. I do not understand who other users have posted negative comments on this product. It works great, the sound quality is pretty good for the price. Soundstation with mics is better, but also three times as expensive.
"Don't waste your time" I purchased this phone thinking it was similar to the SoundStation 100, the difference being this one is newer, sleeker, and cheaper... I was wrong.
The sound quality is terrible. I could not hear a person speaking from a handset without clipping. When I spoke, others said it sounded like I was in a tunnel, or very far from the mic. This was in a room about 10x12. They said it is for small rooms... Like a closet perhaps?
I am going to step up to the SoundStation 100... Which has much better reviews. I'll review it there...
"Step up to SoundStation" I bought this phone hoping it would be similar in quality to the polycom soundstation phones we use at work. It was not.
When I use the phone, I often cannot hear the first half sentence of the other party when they begin speaking. They complain that I sound like I am in a huge room, and can't hear me if I get more than a foot from the unit.
description: Designed with real-estate, business, and finance professionals in mind, the HP 17bII+ financial calculator provides RPN or algebraic data-entry modes and over 250 easy-to-use functions. Its two-line, 22-character display is easy to read, offering convenient menus and prompts, plus clock and calendar.
Coupon included for a one-year subscription to Business 2.0 magazine.
Getting down to business, the 17bII+ provides TMV and amortization features plus list-based, cash-flow analysis, currency conversions, depreciation and percentage calculations, interest rate conversions, bond price and yield calculations, and more. Statistical/mathematical features include correlation forecasting (linear, logarithmic, exponential, and power) and deviation calculations, just to name a few.
The HP 17bII+ financial calculator has a built-in memory of 28K and power-off memory protection. It offers your choice of German, French, English, Spanish, Italian, or Portuguese language operation and a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box Calculator, batteries, user guide, leather carrying case, instructions, warranty information, coupon for one-year subscription to Business 2.0 magazine (valid through June 30, 2005)
comments: "Works flawlessly, easy to use." I actually prefer the smoother key feel of the older model, but the screen quality was annoying. You can only view it from certain angles. So I got the 17BII+.
The newer model is a little thicker and has a real solid feel to the case. I haven't dropped it yet, but it should be able to take some abuse and a decent fall. So I've thrown this in my suitcase and backpack many times and have had no problems in the two months since I bought it. Maybe I'm just lucky, but I haven't experienced any of the quality related problems with this unit mentioned by others. I give it three stars only because I prefer the key feel of the older models a bit better.
To sum it all up...If you get VERY lucky and find a good deal on the older (albeit non abused) 17BII, take it!
"An HP kind of guy" I have used many HP calculators in my career (HP11C, HP15C, HP41Cx, HP30s) and have found this business calculator to be some what more difficult to use because of the additional key strokes required for the more complex calcs. I know the unit is reliable and durable; I had the same key pad problem previously mentioned and HP was not only aware of it, they sent me a replacement unit that no longer has the tactile key depression problem. The imbeded function options are more numerous then its predecessor (HP12C) and I have found greater confidence in the 17bii+ (in comparision)once I familarized myself with the hidden functions. Grading compared with the HP12C: Features & Functions: Better Durability: Same Display: Better Cost: Worse (This calculator should not be significantly more expensive then its predecessor.)"Keyboard Is Awful - From a Long Time HP Calc User" I am extremely dissapointed with the new Hp 17BII - Having used the HP12C and the 19BII for 20 yrs + this calculator is nearly unusable - unlike the HP 19b - when depressing the keys was easy - the 17BII requires you to press very hard on the keys - even then - many key inputs will not accept and your calculation is incorrect - THIS IS A MAJOR FLAW - and others in my office are experiencing the identical problem and end up not using the calculator - when calling HP Calculator support - they acknowledge they have heard the issue before - and instuct you to use it more and they keys should work themselves in - I have had it for 6 months and still have the same problem - HP did offer to have me send the calculator back - What a dissapointment - find myself using my old HP12C.
description: Panasonic's KX-TG5202M utilizes 5.8 GHz DSS signal operation for increased call security and range and less interference. Call waiting/caller ID-ready, the phone offers a 50-call memory and dialer, accessible through the handset's three-line backlit LCD. And, it's expandable, accommodating up to two additional handsets (for a total of four).
You can pre-program frequently called numbers, even chain dialing for automated systems that require a series of numeric inputs. The KX-TG5200M is Caller IQ compatible, a service that allows you to receive updates on weather, sports, horoscopes, and more, that are sent directly to your telephone and displayed on the handset screen (requires optional service).
What's in the Box Two handsets, one base unit, one remote handset charging cradle, two AC power adapters, one phone line cord, two belt clips, two NiMH battery packs, user guide, warranty information
comments: "Finally, decent reception" I have been looking for a decent cordless phone since my old AT&T 9400 (900 MHz digital spread spectrum) died. That phone sounded just like a corded phone, and I never counted on having problems duplicating that experience. But I did. I tried 900 MHz models, 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz of all brands, but there were always too many dead spots and drop outs.
The KX-TG5202 (essentially a KX-TG5200 with an extra handset and charger) fixes that problem. The sound quality is as good as I've heard from any current models, and it even sports a "voice enhancement" technology which, if switched on, makes voices sounds more "realistic." In addition, each handset has a speakerphone, which gets high marks from the people I've called on the phone.
The phone has a black and white display for Caller ID information, and three "soft buttons" which change function depending on the mode the phone is in. It has all basic functionality you'd expect from a $100+ phone (backlighting, phone books, various ring tones, etc.) It doesn't go overboard, however. There is no voice dialing or voice announcement of callers, for example.
All in all, this is a good, solid phone with basic functionality and more than respectable sound quality. If you're not looking for a lot of bells and whistles, you'll love it.
Canon DR-2080C Color Document Scanner
Canon DR-2080C Color Document Scanner
/Canon Office Products
description: A compact scanner from Canon, the DR-2080 provides high quality color scans and fits onto nearly any convenient surface. A 24-bit color depth provides brilliant colors, while a 600 x 600 dpi maximum resolution ensures that even the fine print is clear and legible.
The DR-2080C connects to a host computer via either a USB 2.0 or SCSI-II port, and supports Windows 95, 98, 2000, ME, XP, and NT operating systems. Able to handle originals up to 8.5 by 14 inches, the DR-2080C still has a very small 11.7-by-3.89-inch footprint, freeing up valuable desktop space for other uses, while a weight of just 5.5 makes transportation a snap.
The included Canon CapturePerfect software provides a quick and easy editing tool for your scans, and sports a scan-to-email feature that lets you send originals directly from the scanner. Optical character recognition allows you to easily create searchable text files out of your scans, while a pre-scan feature lets users adjust scan settings on one page, then apply those settings to an entire batch scan.
Scanning speeds in simplex mode are as fast as 20 ppm, while duplex mode supports speeds of up to 40 ppm. The automatic document feeder lets you scan up to 50 pages with the touch of a button and supports originals of up to 0.2 mm in thickness. The DR-2080C also comes backed with a one year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Scanner with document feeding system, AC power, cable, software CD-ROM, setup instructions, warranty
comments: "Beautiful little scanner" This is actually a very good scanner. It scans pretty quickly at 200 dpi/black-and-white OCR - it took me about an hour to scan in and OCR 400+ pages of class readings. I'm not exactly sure about the timing, since I wandered away every so often for a while. The duplex features are great - especially the option to remove blank pages. You can also change the threshold on what the software considers a blank page - it asks you to specify percent coverage, although they use a different term.
Complaints about this product that caused me to give it less than 5 stars:
1. As the last reviewer said, putting in the paper adjusters prevent the flap from closing.
2. It states on the DR-2080C's brochure (downloadable from Canon's website) that it is "Able to scan batches of mixed documents of different sizes, shapes, and weight." I took this to mean that you can drop differently-sized papers into the scanner, and it will scan it for you correctly and automatically, thus not requiring you to sit there and feed a stack of differently-sized papers one-by-one through the machine. I was mistaken however - the user manual says that you should sort your papers by different sizes and shapes before scanning them. When you do drop papers of different sizes in there, it will try to scan them, but the smaller sheets will be skewed and then incorrectly de-skewed.
3. Feeding stacks of paper into the scanner is a tad tricky - you have to wiggle it around a bit or the scanner will not be able to detect that any papers are in the ADF.
Canon also sells additional rollers so that you can replace them yourself without having to return the scanner to the manufacturer. If you use a Linux system, so long as you have a kernel that supports USB, a copy of VMWare (you can download a 30-day trial version for free) and a copy of Windows, the scanner works just fine.
"Great little scanner" This is a great scanner, and you can't beat the price. As others have already noted, it is better than some scanners costing thousands more. I love it's size, speed, and duplex scanning features. I do have some complaints though:
1. Installing the paper guides prevents the dust cover from being closed
2. The deskew and border removal functions don't always work as expected (they remove more than required, and you can't control how much to remove)
3. The bundled software is clunky and stupid (for example, you can't use the arrow or page up/page down keys to navigate through a scanned document). Ditto for the help files, although that seems to be true of most software from Japanese hardware makers; for heavens sakes, folks, hire some native English speakers! The software also has some bugs, e.g., it frequently has "file access errors" when trying to append pages to existing files. However, it is fairly easy to use, and is good enough for low volume scanning.
Some tips:
1. Don't adjust the paper guides too snugly against the paper; the automatic feeder requires some "wiggle room" to catch the paper.
2. Use the "Scan ahead" mode to speed up scanning.
3. If you're creating PDFs, get Adobe Acrobat (the full version, not the free reader) to manipulate your PDFs.
4. Set up custom paper sizes to quickly scan odd-sized documents like credit card statements, etc.
In spite of my complaints about the software, I'd highly recommend this scanner (in any case, my complaints are moot if you use some other scanning software). In the week since I got this scanner, I've scanned more than two thousand pages, scanning for a few hours every day (most of the time was spent organizing and ordering the documents). My big, ugly filing cabinet is almost empty...hurray!
You can get a cheaper scanner from Visioneer, but the ADF on that sucks. The DR-2080C uses an almost straight-through paper path, so very thin, very thick, or creased paper doesn't jam as much as with scanners that use a U-shaped path.
"Excellent for travelling" This unit is small and compact, yet has some very nice features. I especially like the duplexing feature allowing it to scan BOTH sides in the same pass, no flipping a stack of documents over. It works from within Adobe, and Microsoft Office Imaging.
It does have a drawback, however, the drivers are not Windows XP, and it can be a bit disconcerting installing them. I finished the installation with no adverse affects (that I noticed) to my 2 laptops, and a stand alone machine.
If you travel and need a high speed scanner, I highly recommend this unit.
Panasonic KXTG2000B 2.4 GHz DSS 2-Line Cordless Phone with Caller ID and Voicemail
Panasonic KXTG2000B 2.4 GHz DSS 2-Line Cordless Phone with Caller ID and Voicemail
/Panasonic
description: Offering plenty of options and backed with plenty of power, the Panasonic KXTG2000B supports up to eight handsets from a single main unit, making it an excellent choice for small offices or your home business. The 2.4 GHz provide far more power than older 900 Hz models, and Panasonic's Digital Spectrum Spreading makes your conversations less subject to eavesdropping by automatically shifting frequencies every second.
You can create a separate voicemail box for each individual handset, all with 100 minutes of recording time. The mail system automatically provides messages with a time-date stamp, and includes a full menu of prompts for the various options. Each handset has a three-line backlit LCD display for the 30-entry caller ID and 50-entry phone directory. The main console includes call and message transfer, deliver message, and auto message delete, in addition to the 100-entry caller ID memory and 50-entry phone directory. Panasonic includes a one-year warranty on parts and service.
comments: "A complete answer for SOHO's-I'm Impressed!!!!" I recently installed this system replacing the Seimens system. I'm 100% impressed with the features included, especially the auto attendant feature. You're able to allow the standard message that is built in or record various messages-each being different for the two phone lines-yourself giving the caller options to select what extension to use, e.g. 0#=Operator, 1#-user1, etc. and if that user isn't available being able to give the caller the options of leaving voice mail or switch to another extension. In addition to being able to instantly switch between the auto-attendant and standard voice recordings for incoming call is great and on each of the two phone lines as they operate independantly. Each portable phone has their own address and voice mail feature plus being able to inter-com/conference between units while on the phone. Nice large display for caller ID, back lite all the time plus icons in the display indicating what extension is in use and what line is being used. Retrival of voice mail is excellant and the pleasant voice walks you through the various commands including forwarding a message to another extension. I have a 4 extension office and this unit is my answer versus rewiring my SOHO for additonal phones. Adding additional units are a snap and are controlled from the main pbx unit. The handheld units are comfortable and have exceptional range to the base. Additional features include a jack for headsets on both the base and portable units. In addition to being able to see who has called, you can click the speaker phone button or pick up the receiver and that number can be dialed immediately. I also like the ability to change the tones/volume levels of each of the phones so you can tell which extension is being called.
The only minor draw back I have and I've passed this onto Panasonic is to include "music on hold", of course you can buy external units, but it would've been the "Crown Jewel" for this great unit if it were standard.
"OVERKILL FOR HOME OFFICE" Something to consider: I bought this system for (1) home and (2) home-office lines and found much of the vaunted Auto Attendant (AA) features and multiple mailboxes to be unusable in this configuration. The basic issue is the number of mailboxes that one can deploy is limited by the number of handsets used with the system. With one handset, which is all I need, you get one AA mailbox. This eliminates virtually all of the flexibility of the AA system and its ballyhooed 8 mailboxes. Despite this significant limitation, I ended up keeping the unit and like it very much. The general voice mail alternative to AA is useful because it can be configured to play different outgoing messages to each line and having all messages in the same mail box works for me, although it might not in a more populous household. Also, the overall functionality, 2.4 GHz power and nice design make for a excellent, if expensive, integrated home and home-office solution. Update: After two weeks of very light use, the handset battery problems discussed in other customer reviews are beginning to creep up."WOW!!! BEST PURCHASE I HAVE EVER MADE!!!!" I just bought this thing from Amazon and all I can say
is WOW!!!!
This is probably the best purchase I have ever made.
This thing is everything I ever expected and more!! It's
very easy to use as well!
I have bought other brands before, and this one just
blows everything else out of the water! I have to say,
everyone out there who is thinking of buying this, stop
thinking. I bought it and I am extremely happy with it
the moment I powered this thing on. YOU ABSOLUTELY
POSITIVELY CANNOT GO WRONG WITH THIS PURCHASE! I
GUARANTEE IT!!!
AT&T 944 4-Line Corded Speakerphone (Graphite)
AT&T 944 4-Line Corded Speakerphone (Graphite)
/Advanced American Telephones
description: The AT&T 944 corded speakerphone provides a long list of features, whether it's used as a single unit or as one part of a whole home and office telephone system. It's also designed to offer affordable operation and to grow as your office does. It accommodates four telephone lines and supports 11 units, so you can connect your staff via intercom, call transfer, three-way conferencing, and paging.
The AT&T 944 offers 24 speed-dial numbers. A built-in speakerphone with headset compatibly provides hands-free conversation. Additional features include a multifunction LCD, redial, "do not disturb" function, and electronic hold.
What's in the Box Base unit, tilt stand/wall mount, handset, coiled handset cord, telephone line cord, printed speed-dial reference card, instructions, warranty information
comments: "big phone system features for small price" i purchased 5 of these phones for my New Jersey office from my telephone wiring contractor CROWN TELECOM SERVICE (732) 681-3903 and they are a dream. they were up and running with a little programming.
Easy to use, cheap, and have big system features like intercom, page, hold, LCD display, etc. Phone systems cost thousands of dollars for the same features.
Don't fall for the big system hype. Have these installed and save yourself alot of money!
"Very Disappointed Small Business" I purchased 4 of these phones for my small business. They are terrible. While everyone in technical support admits I have tried everything to get the phones to work they do not. I can talk on them but if I put a call on hold and pick it up at a different extension the customer can't hear us....we sound like a Mickey Mouse organization....Avoid these phones no matter how nice customer serivce is they can't help."phone is fine but it broke and no replacement parts" The wires in the handset keep losing contact even though I tried to fix it many times. And, the key here is, there are no replacement parts... So, that is a major problem.
Siemens 2420 Gigaset 2.4 GHz Complete Cordless Communication System
Siemens 2420 Gigaset 2.4 GHz Complete Cordless Communication System
/Siemens
description: The Siemens Gigaset 2420 offers a full-featured multiuser phone system for growing offices and hip households. The base package includes a two-line desk phone that serves as the master station for the system, as well as one 2.4 GHz cordless handset (model 2400) with its own charger base. Expanding this system is simply a matter of purchasing additional cordless handsets (up to a total of eight) and registering them with the desk station.
With its stylish, understated look, the Gigaset 2420 will be a sharp addition to any office. The desk station features an uncluttered control panel that uses bright red lights to alert you to line use, caller ID callers, voice messages, and access to voice mail services provided by your phone company. Siemens makes the most of the two- line LCD display, consistently dishing up very informative menus and call information. There are only four speed-dial buttons, but the system includes a built-in scrollable phone directory that you can easily scroll through to move caller ID entries into the directory. Transferring calls couldn't be easier; pressing the "Int" button displays a menu of extensions, complete with names.
The cordless handsets are small and light, and incorporate a surprising amount of local functionality. The handset's control panel is very consistent with the desk station; in addition, some of the functions are wisely implemented through two double-position buttons that control soft menus on the LCD display. This gives remote users a look and feel similar to mobile phones, including the flexibility to customize ringer volume and pitch for both external lines and the intercom.
The 2420 system can support two external calls, as well as an internal conversation between two handsets, for a total of four active handsets at any given time. The cordless handsets store their own local phone directories, and you can send directory entries to other handsets or to the desk station. For the wandering user, the cordless units also provide an audible out- of-range warning.
During our tests, we found the Gigaset 2420 package intuitive and its handset comfortable. The system was easy to set up. We simply plugged in the phone line, installed the batteries in the cordless extensions (they accept either ni-cad or NiMH), charged them, and registered the cordless handsets with the base by following a quick, well-documented procedure. The standard ni-cad batteries (included) provide about four hours of talk time, and the optional NiMH batteries provide about twice that. We recommend returning the handsets to their chargers at least every evening.
The standard belt clip and headset jack made the cordless units perfect for our users on the go. One of the 2420's strengths--its small handset--was our only frustration. We found both the desk handset and the cordless extensions difficult to cradle on our shoulder. Old habits often die hard.
We highly recommend the Siemens Gigaset 2420 system for growing offices and households with kinetic teenagers. This affordable package allows for quick expansion without running any additional phone wires and gives all of the users full control over the system's operation. -- Stephen W. Plain
Pros:
Clear sound
Easy installation and setup
Major system functions available from the handset
Cons:
Handsets difficult to cradle on your shoulder
Limited range compared to less expensive 900 MHz DSS models
comments: "complete, capable, cool" The Siemens 2420 is fantastic! The desk station has a great speakerphone (great sound quality without all that annoying background "I'm on a speakerphone" white noise), answering machine, and other useful features (mute/hold/conference).
The handsets let you do almost anything remotely (call transfer, hold, intercom, switch lines, etc). Additionally, the handset chargers can be plugged in anywhere, so you don't have to deal with phone lines except for the base station, so it's easy to spread the handsets out all over your home/office where they're needed. The range is great and the sound quality is top notch.
About my only complaint about this system is the wireless handsets only do hold, not mute. (this is actually an incredibly minor point, and I can't think of other handsets that have it either)
"Pretty Face, Poor Implementation" I own 2 of these phones and 6 handsets - bought them all at once for my home/home office. It is definitely the sleekest looking phone out there. However, for paying top dollar, it has some serious design flaws. To cut to the chase:
Pros: - Beautiful design. - Handsets are light and easy to handle. - Range seems very good and voice quality is very good. - Adding handsets is easy and convenient - no jack required.
Cons: - Cannot pick up a call from a handset after the answering machine has picked up (no call interrupt). - Cannot use other-brand external phones to join a call in progress. - When power is lost or unplugged, base phone loses time and date requiring reprogramming. VERY annoying and I cannot believe they overlooked this. The phone has a backup battery for crying out loud. - Answering machine does not recognize hang-ups resulting in lots of blank messages. - Transferring a call from one handset to another is a MAJOR pain requiring a bunch of keypresses. VERY poorly designed and non-intuitive. - Too easy to accidentally delete a new phone message if you press delete a bit too late. - Handsets are small and light, but not ergonomic or well designed for fitting to your hand. - I had two handsets die within about 4 months. Questionable quality. - Simple things like changing the volume on a handset during a call is very awkward and requires scrolling through a series of menus, so you can't change the volume without taking the phone away from your ear for about 10 seconds. Poor design. - Virtually everything is menu driven and requires a series of button presses and scrolling through menu items. Awkward. - Too many features are password protected on the base requiring entering a PIN every time. Is this really necessary?
There's more minor flaws and annoyances, but for the price I would expect a MUCH more user friendly design. Whoever designed these phones was probably a "tecchie" - scrolling through screenfuls of menu options is ok for software, but not for cordless phones. Many often used features should be incorporated into buttons rather than menu items (like the handset volume).
The number one thing that annoys me is trying to transfer a call to another handset. If I pick up a call one one handset, my daughter can't simply yell from another room, "I got it", then simply press talk on her handset. No - it's a series of button presses, etc. and about 75% of the time it doesn't seem to work or the call gets lost. Totally totally annoying and an inexcusable design flaw in my opinion.
Overall, for the money you can do much better. If I was able to get my money back I would in a heartbeat. I'm stuck with a $1000+ phone system which is a real letdown overall.
At least it looks nice.....
"All LCDs will fail eventually" For the price and reliability the Gigaset 2420 phone is a rip off. I purchased one new at considerable expense a few years ago. The LCD screen failed during the warranty period. The LCD on the replacement phone failed. I purchased several of these units used. Every LCD has eventually failed. The portable handsets still work, but are useless without the base. I invested a fair amount of money into handsets, and they are now worthless. Totally unreliable base unit. Don't buy Siemens, as you can't get parts from them and they do not support the phone.
Uniden TRU8865-2 5.8 GHz Digital Expandable Cordless Speakerphone with Caller ID
Uniden TRU8865-2 5.8 GHz Digital Expandable Cordless Speakerphone with Caller ID
/Uniden
description: The TRU8865-2 from Uniden is a 5.8 GHz phone system with plenty of features, including a second handset and charging cradle and the option to add even more. By utilizing the 5.8 GHz frequency with digital transmission, the TRU8865-2 is able to offer a clearer signal and greater distance than traditional phones operating on lower analog bands.
Multi-user expandable, the TRU8865-2 supports up to 10 handsets on the same system, allowing you to place extra handsets wherever you need them. Caller ID and call waiting compatible, the base unit holds up to 100 caller ID/memory locations in its internal memory, while each handset stores up to 50 locations, so you can keep track of incoming calls and store the most important phone numbers for easy recall. Handsets can be used in DirectLink (walkie-talkie) mode to communicate with other handsets on the system, while a baby monitoring mode lets you hear what's going on at another handset location.
Handset and ringer controls allow you to adjust volume levels to your liking, while an illuminated keypad makes dialing in poorly lit areas a snap. A page button makes finding a lost handset a breeze, and four-way conferencing lets you speak to multiple parties at once. Handset and base speakerphones allow you to communicate hands-free, while a call transfer function provides a way to route incoming calls to another handset.
The base unit is wall-mountable for added convenience, and each handset is headset compatible and comes with a belt clip. The TRU8865-2 also comes backed with a one-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Base and handset, extra handset and charging cradle, two belt clips, user's manual, two battery packs, two AC adapters, telephone line cord
comments: "Excellent feature-set" As others have noted, this phone system has an amazingly useful set of features. I'm replacing a very expensive Siemens system that has served me well for nearly 10 years, and it's taken that long to find a suitable replacement (which had to be 5.8MHz to avoid interference with LANs and other 2.4GHz devices I need to use).
One correction of a criticism in prior reviews -- One user noted that the numbers saved in Caller ID can't be dialed as saved. In fact, the phone will insert or remove the leading 1- for long-distance dialing just by pressing the "*/Tone/<" key, and it will insert or remove the area code by pressing the "#/>" key. This is handy, and it's too bad the annoyed reviewer didn't notice it in the manual (p. 53).
Transferring ALL numbers in the phone directory from one unit to another (base or remote) is absolutely essential if you're using it as a home phone, and I was relieved to confirm that it does this.
Unlike my excellent Siemens, the Uniden lets any remote perform call screening, so you can listen to incoming messages and pick up the call without sprinting (no pun intended) for the base unit.
I have not yet tested the transmission range. Hopefully it's at least a few hundred feet... The higher radio frequency (5.8GHz) means it's a bit more directional (line of sight) than the older phones. In any case, it works very well within my house, with no evidence of powerline or other interference. The sound quality is much better than average.
Having each handset operate as a small speakerphone is also a big plus, especially when reviewing voicemail.
I'm delighted to have a small red LED on each handset to indicate when there are unread messages. With 5 handsets in my house, it's very useful to NOT have to connect to the base to check if there are new messages. You can disable this LED, or go a step further and have the handsets/base beep every 15 seconds as well. Another thoughtful voicemail feature -- if you try to delete all messages, it won't do so if any of them are still unread.
The phone fully supports the new Call Waiting Deluxe features offered by some phone companies -- you get to choose what happens to an incoming call while you're on another call.
Room monitoring is better than on the Siemans -- you can choose which handset (or base) does the monitoring, and which does the receiving. Monitoring and answer machine call screening can both be turned off if you don't want these features to be used.
The ring tones include a very subdued "Soft Alert" tone, which is perfect for the bedroom. A good collection of tones and tunes is also provided.
You can assign any ring tone to any number in the directory; this will be used as a distinctive ring whenever an assigned phone number (with caller ID) calls you.
The display is bright
"DO NOT EVEN TRY THIS PICESE OF SH-T!" YOU WILL BE VERY SORRY. GOOD LUCK IF YOU DECIDED TO BUY IT."Great phone!! Does not interfere with my Wireless AP" I have had this phone for 2 weeks now glad we bought it. I have not had any problems with the phone regarding clarity, ease of use, or interference.
The only complaint I have is that the custom ringer feature only works when you store the caller ID exactly as it appears when the person calls, which makes it difficult to recall later in the phone book.
description: Pocket-sized and full-featured, the HP 33s Scientific Calculator is designed for engineers, surveyors, college students, scientists, and medical professionals. Its two-line display is easy to read, and at only 4.2 ounces, the unit slips easily into your pocket for travel.
Coupon included for a one-year subscription to Business 2.0 magazine.
Boasting both Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) and intuitive algebraic data entry modes, as well as 32 KB memory with 27 memory storage and recall functions, the 33s is ideal for solving a variety of science and engineering problems.
Functions include trigonometric, percentage, conversion, coordinate, time, angle, probability, factorial, gamma, fractions, and a variety of statistical operations. The calculator can solve equations, integrate, work with complex numbers, and is programmable. The 386-page manual thoroughly reviews the calculator's many features. When purchased new, the unit is backed by HP's one-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Calculator, two 3-volt lithium coin batteries (CR2032), instruction manual, coupon for one-year subscription to Business 2.0 magazine (valid through June 30, 2005)
comments: "The best scientific RPN calculator currently available..." Because it's the only one available, unless you want to fork over $200+ on Ebay for a HP32SII (even used). This calculator is essentially the 32SII in a different case a with a few minor additions. It has an algebraic mode as well as RPN, but the only reason you should buy this calculator at all is if you want to use RPN. In fact, if you don't want to use RPN, you can stop reading now.
The keyboard is... interesting. I'm not sure what HP was going for with the funky chevron; I think it looks a bit funny, other people think it looks cool. Functionally, the keyboard works well. The plastic keys feel good, and though the non-uniform shape may be a little disorienting at first, I got used to it fairly quickly.
It is programmable, but only in a very limited sense. The increased memory compared to the 32SII is not useful, because only 27 variables exist (A..Z, i) with which to use it. Programming the 33S, like the 32SII, is more like assembly language than anything else, but the manual describes the process very well and gives many examples of what can be done with it. Also, it's very difficult to keep more than one or two programs in memory because there are also only 27 available labels. If you want to make or use complicated programs, consider the HP48GX (also RPN).
It can perform definite integrations, and given an equation in one variable it can solve for it numerically. It does not do polynomial root finding or solutions of linear systems, though these functions can be programmed. It can handle complex (imaginary) math, but it reduces the 4 level stack to only 2 levels, and requires a few extra keystrokes. If you're doing lots of complex math, again, the HP48GX is a better choice.
It also comes with a very nice leather slip-on cover. It's not as beefy as the hard plastic covers you see on most calculators these days, but it should protect the calculator against minor dings.
The manual is very thorough with lots of explanations and examples of all the calculator's capabilities.
The bottom line is, buy this calculator if you want a small, simple, easy-to-use RPN scientific calculator. It's particularly good for engineering. Minus one star for the programming limitations.
"Good but not better than HP 32 SII" I received my 33s last week and have been playing with it since. On the 'plus' side this calculator provides an opportunity to own an RPN calculator for a reasonable price but several things combine to make this 'upgrade' to the 32 SII little more than a cosmetic change together with a few glaring problems that make the predecessor 32SII a much better package.
The first major problem is the miniscule decimal point (period, and commas) represented by a single pixel, that is extremely hard to distinguish and makes the use of the calculator unpleasant at times. It could conceivably be missed in an exam setting.
The two shift keys have a green/purple shade that is so dark as to be unrecognisable in low light. The keys have painted digits that do not look like they would stand up to years of use like the 32 SII has been proven to stand up to. I scraped a small amount of the paint on the C key with a knife and found that I could remove it without too much pressure.
The cosmesis of the 33s is somewhat ironic to describe as an upgrade. I remember a Casio 570x I used all the way back in 1986 that had a similar metallic look to it. I think the loss of the classic HP look and the adopting of this 'casioesque' look not the most intelligent of marketing moves. The keypad layout is a love it or hate it proposition.
The purported extra memory is not actually usable by user side applications in so far as the number of registers and variables is identical to the 32 SII. The only area where it might prove useful is in solution of integration problems or in writing programs over 256 steps (not very common) where a formal PC package like Maple would be more appropriate anyhow.
My advice would be to try to purchase a HP 32 SII if you can find one. They are more expensive used even than they were when new. A true testament to how venerable it is amongst knowledgable calculator users. If you can't find one or afford one then you will have to learn to love the 33s and its irritations.
"What a shame" I recently received a 33s. I've found the display completely unusable, not only is the decimal point ridiculously small; the numbers are not spaced as well as earlier models, exacerbating the problem.
I don't see how anyone is the design group at HP could have found this acceptable...sent it back the same day.
Sony M-2000 Microcassette Transcriber/Recorder
Sony M-2000 Microcassette Transcriber/Recorder
/Sony
description: This portable, handheld scanner provides a wide range of time-saving conveniences. With up to 1,000 characters recognized per second, the IRIS Pen II Executive Scanner is suited for rapid scanning of small samples of text or for taking notes and scanning tables. It can also scan directly into any Windows or Mac application starting at the position of the cursor. Plus, the text-to-speech option lets you hear what you scan, and in a relatively natural voice.
The IRIS Pen II recognizes data on many types of documents, reading 6 to 22 point size fonts with text, numbers, handwritten numbers, and bar codes, as well as reading dot-matrix letters. It supports foreign language uses (up to 56 languages) and is programmable, letting you define two functions that are triggered by single and double clicks (tab, enter, space).
The Pen II provides improved image stability at varying speeds and offers gray scale document recognition. Additional features include left-to-right and right-to-left scanning, central line tracking, multiline mode, recognition of wavy or distorted characters, a line skew tolerance of 10 percent with a word slope tolerance of 20 percent, clear scanning of inverse text (white letters on dark background), and automatic input of tables (like invoices and price lists) into your database or spreadsheet. The idle mode reduces power consumption.
When directly connected to the USB port of a PC or notebook, the scanner supports plug-and-play operation and is powered by the USB port, so there's no need for an external power supply. Support for serial/parallel port is available.
comments: "Best scanning pen ever!" The IRISPen II Executive is the best scanning pen on the market as far as I'm concerned. I have tried the pen from C-Technologies and I have tried the pen from Wizcom and the IRISPen blew them both out of the water. The accuracy and speed was far better than the competing pens. This technology is amazing, much faster than if I were to type everything in. With the IRISPen I was even able to scan my signature in and attach it to my company emails. I would highly recommend this product!
"Best Handheld Scanner" If you're looking for a fast and accurate handheld scanner, I strongly recommend the IRIS II Executive.
I first bought the Quick Link Pen from Wizcom and got incredibly frustrated by that product's slowness and ridiculously poor accurary. I ended up returning my Quick Link Pen and getting the IRIS II Exec instead.
The Iris II Exec is incredibly fast and more importantly incredibly accurate. I can scan faster than I would with a highlighter and I rarely get mistakes. I'm a Biochem Grad Student and I scan a lot of words that wouldn't seem easily recognized, but the IRIS II works like a champ.
Even though, the Iris II Exec is not portable, it's accuracy and speed make up for it in leaps and bounds. The company's claim of 99% accuracy is pretty on the money. I type 80 wpm and scanning with this pen is far faster than typing.
If you're looking for a Handheld Scanner, this is by far the best choice.
"This baby adjusts for colored backgrounds" This is not so much a review as a heads up to the reviewer (Roy Herron) who said it was useless to him because he scans on colored backgrounds. You can adjust for background color on the Executive model just for this purpose. You said you bought from a seller, so I'm guessing that you didn't get all the documentation with your purchase. So, call ReadIris Tech Support (1-(561)-921-0847) and they can tell you how. I use mine for scanning barcodes when packing books. Makes it easy to keep track of what's in each box.
Panasonic KX-TG5240M GigaRange Supreme 5.8 GHz DSS Expandable Cordless Phone with Answering System
Panasonic KX-TG5240M GigaRange Supreme 5.8 GHz DSS Expandable Cordless Phone with Answering System
/Panasonic
description: Panasonic's KX-TG5240M utilizes the 5.8 GHz band and digital frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology for increased call security and range and for less interference. This system comes with one handset but can accommodate up to three more (for a total of four). Compatible with Caller ID/call waiting, the KX-TG5240M offers a 50-station caller ID memory and dialer, accessible through the handset's three-line backlit LCD. It also features talking caller ID, which audibly announces who's calling through the handset and base speakerphones. Rounding out the main features are an integrated digital answering system and a light-up antenna on the handset that flashes to alert you to new calls and messages. The handsets also offer a variety of ring tones and melodies to choose from.
The KX-TG5240M allows you to pre-program frequently called numbers, even for chain dialing (ideal for calling automated systems that require a series of numeric inputs). It's also Caller IQ compatible, a service provides updates on weather, sports, horoscopes, and more; the information is sent directly to your telephone and displayed on the handset screen. (Caller ID and call waiting require subscription through your phone company. Caller IQ is a fee based service that requires registration.)
What's in the Box KX-TG5230M base unit, handset, AC power adapter, phone line cord, belt clip, NiMH battery pack, user guide, warranty information
comments: "Are Techs from Uniden writing bad reviews here?" My brother owns this phone. I'm the one who gets to listen to this Panasonic transmit the voice. I don't understand some reviews that state the sound quality is bad. It's just the opposite. The phone sounds very much like a good corded phone...on both talk AND receive. No noise, just clear good sound.
I write this because I recently purchased Uniden's newest 5.8 phone. I read so many glowing reports about it's sound quality. After all, once you finally stop "playing" with these phones..it's the sound quality and comfort that really matters...at least to me.
The new Unidens on the receiver end DO sound great and plenty loud. BUT if you have voice mail at work or even on your cell phone...just leave yourself a message with the Uniden. You'll see the transmit quality is HORRIBLE...dark, muffled, like a cheap cell phone. Back to the 5200 series Panasonics...they sound GREAT on both send and receive. Don't buy HALF a phone...like the new Unidens. Mine went back to Staples! Make sure you listen to both send AND receive on your new phone. If you buy a Panasonic 5200 series...you'll have about the best sounding cordless out there...
"Great Phone" This is a great phone with features that are easy to set up and use. If you haven't experienced the joy of talking caller ID yet - this is a fine way to start. I don't know why all phones don't have it."Your friends will hate you" Everbody I talked to hated this phone, they wanted to know what the problem was, even when I was right next to the base unit! I took it back for a refund. I saw another reviewer had the exact same experience, so ask your callers about the quality of the sound within your return period.
A couple of other things I didn't like: * only 2 digits for remote access code. * No message waiting indicator for central station voicemail. I have voicemail as a backup and would like an indicator for this.
Fellowes PS60C-2 Cross Cut Paper Shredder (38605)
Fellowes PS60C-2 Cross Cut Paper Shredder (38605)
/Fellowes
description: The Powershred 60CC DLX Cross Cut from Fellowes makes short work of any unwanted document, whether it's invoices with credit card numbers or your everyday plans for world takeover. The 60CC DLX Cross Cut uses a hardened-steel cutting system that shreds documents into fine strips at a rate of around 20 feet per minute. The 60CC DLX Cross Cut comfortably shreds up to seven normal sheets of printer paper at a time and also comes with its own basket, so you can be sure that it will be a perfect fit. A quality shredder that more than ably does the job, the 60CC DLX Cross Cut also comes backed with a one-year manufacturer's warranty.
comments: "An important addition to any home" I've used home/office shredders both at home, and in the office. The Fellowes PS60C-2 is by far the best that I have ever used. If you're shredding a stack of documents, you no longer have to sort through and tear the staples off, the PS60C-2 will shred them. Did you forget that little paper clip? No problem, the PS60C-2 doesn't care. Are you getting rid of an old credit card? Stop looking for the scissors, the PS60C-2 will turn it into confetti.
The PS60C-2 is a solidly built machine, and of coruse it includes its own waste basket. One nice feature of the waste basket is the view window which reduces the need to remove the cutter assembly when checking to see if the basket is full.
One feature of the PS60C-2, which may be viewed as a pro/con respectively, is its power cord. Instead of one of those large, clunky, AC adapters that plug into the back of the unit, the PS60C-2 has a fixed, permanently attached, standard power cord. Under the pro column: You can't lose it, it won't burn out, and it won't fall out. Also, since shredders are top heavy, they sometimes tip over. I've had to replace two shredders because the the power input was damaged after such a fall. This unit appears to be equiped to handle such accidents without permanent damage. The drawback to this design is that it could be percieved as a safety issue. Typically the AC adapter inputs are pretty loose. As a result, in the event of an emergency, there is a chance that the power cord will disconect for the input before it sucks your sleeve or tie deep enough into the cutters to cause injury. Chances are that the risk is minimal. The PS60C-2 includes an auto cutoff which should stop the cutters before such an injury would occur. Also, the power switch is well within reach.
Identity theft is a real and growing problem. Even if you do not do business from your home, you need a shredder. Seemingly inocent information contained in your trash can be used to destroy your credit and reputation. I know, it happened to me before I started shredding documents in my home. The information contained in one of those credit offers we receive every day is all it takes. Protect yourself with the PS60C-2 Home/Office Shredder. If you don't, you may regret it.
"Decent machine for light use, but heavy" The guidelines for usage of this shredder are 10-12 minutes at a time, with 20 minutes of non-usage in between. If you go over these guidelines (which I did on one occasion) the shredder overheats, and you must wait for it to cool down & recoop. It works fine as long as you don't overuse it.
Since this is a cross-cut shreder its requires more maintenance than a straight-cut shredder, and needs to be oiled. The advantage to cross-cut shredders is that the shreds are less voluminous than with straight-cut shredders. The shredder's many blades are prone to getting lots of little paper shreds caught in them, which I find myself pulling out piece by piece when I empty the bin. This happens mostly when you shred smaller items like envelopes. When you shred larger letter size sheets, there are fewer paper shreds stuck in the blades, and it's less of an issue. When emptying the shredder's bin, the top is heavy to lift, which is a bit of an inconvenience.
Overall, the shredder works fine for light day to day use, and the product's design looks sleek and doesn't take up too much space.
"Great for Smaller Offices" This paper shredder from the folks at Fellowes is a compact shredder designed for smaller business offices and home- based businesses. The motor on this unit is powerful and it only needs occasional lubricating. The blades can cut through paper, credit cards, paper clips, and staples.
The width of the paper feed on this device is only 9 inches, so if you have a piece of paper that is larger you will have to fold it in half first or cut it, in order to feed into the shredder. If a jam- up occurs, all you have to do is flick the switch to the reverse setting and the item will pop back out.
Because this shredder cuts in a criss- cross pattern, there is added security against theft. This is particularly important for those businesses who deal with documents that include Social Security numbers and credit card numbers on a consistent basis. The paper is cut down to pieces measuring only 1 and 3/8 by 5/32 inches. This is small enough that there should be no further worries about anyone piecing together the paper. It would be more frustrating than it's worth.
This shredder is fine for smaller loads, but for larger offices, it is impractical. It will overheat if used too much. Businesses that have a larger load will need a larger shredder. But for smaller offices, this shredder is one of the best on the market, easily worth the price you pay for it.
description: Printing professional quality photos from home has become a reality, thanks to easy-to-use photo printers like the Canon PIXMA ip5000. By combining five-color printing and a 1,856-nozzle print head that's capable of delivering superfine 1-picoliter ink droplets (up to 22 million droplets per inch), the ip5000 delivers stunningly accurate prints that should leave professional photo labs a little worried.
Color resolution is as high as 9,600 x 2,400 dpi, with black-and-white resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi. Print speeds are as high as 25 ppm in black, 17 ppm in color, while a borderless 4-by-6-inch photo can take as little as 36 seconds. The same drive system responsible for the ip5000's improved print speeds also results in a low 34 dB(A) noise level.
Along with a wide variety of plain and photo papers, the ip5000 also accepts envelopes and transparencies. The dual paper path allows you to print two-sided documents or simply store photo papers in one tray and plain paper in the other.
With its easy-to-use USB port, hooking up the printer to your computer is a snap, while a direct print port allows you to print directly from a PictBridge-compatible digital camera or DV camcorder, with or without your computer. The software bundle includes Easy-PhotoPrint and PhotoStitch. Compatible with both PC and Mac operating systems, the ip5000 comes backed with a one-year limited warranty on both parts and labor.
What's in the Box PIXMA iP5000 photo printer, print head and ink tanks (BCI-3eBK black, BCI-6BK black, BCI-6C cyan, BCI-6M magenta, BCI-6Y yellow), power cord, easy setup instructions, documentation kit (Quick Start Guide, Registration Card), Setup Software and User's Guide on CD-ROM, Canon Photo Paper Pro for Borderless Printing (4-by-6 sample pack); USB cable not included
description: Hit the road with not merely a stylish portable television, but a flat-panel LCD TV capable of letting you surf the Web and check e-mail--wirelessly--from just about anywhere on the planet. Sony's LF-X5 LocationFree TV weighs little more than a pound and comes with stereo headphones and a carry case.
The wireless LF-X1 system consists of a 7-inch LCD TV with a widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio, 800 x 480 native pixel resolution, and an accompanying base station.
The LocationFree TV autoselects the strongest wireless signal so you get the best transmission wherever you are.
When the base station and the wireless monitor are each connected to the Internet through your existing ISP, you can easily and quickly access the Web, exchange e-mail, and shop online using the onscreen keyboard. It can also morph into a digital photo album, displaying custom slide shows from its built-in memory or from a CompactFlash card, which plugs into a dedicated flash-memory port. You may also play MPEG-1 video files from a CF card.
Filling the role of an intuitive graphical use interface (GUI), the onscreen universal remote and onscreen keyboard heighten the LocationFree TV's uniqueness and versatility. Sony's GUI simplifies navigation of all aspects of the set. You can even use the screen itself as a remote to switch from channel to channel or from function to function.
The base station houses an Ethernet port for broadband compatibility and 2 video inputs for audio/video components and other peripherals (S-video, composite-video). There's also IR blaster for added control and convenience. The set comes with 2 rechargeable batteries: 1 standard, 1 long-life.
What's in the Box TV, base station, stereo headphones, a quick-start guide, an IR blaster, 2 rechargeable batteries (1 standard and 1 long-life), a carrying case, an instruction manual, and a stylus.
comments:
Panasonic KX-TS3282B 2-Line Expandable Speakerphone with Data Port (Black)
Panasonic KX-TS3282B 2-Line Expandable Speakerphone with Data Port (Black)
/Panasonic
description: The Panasonic KX-TS3282B corded speakerphone offers a wealth of features designed to meet the needs of any small to medium sized business. This two-line phone offers automatic line selection with convenient buttons for hold, mute, pause, flash, redial (last ten numbers dialed), speed dial, transfer, call restriction, intercom, and more.
The X-TS3282B offers flexible extension numbering for up to eight extensions (that is, up to seven optional add-on units) and data ports for full integration. The base houses all call features and functions as a speakerphone with adjustable volume control, and accommodates three-way conference calling. A three-line LCD shows all caller ID information and allows users access to up to 50 stored names and numbers.
comments:
Sony ICD-ST25VTP Digital Voice Recorder with Voice-to-Print Software
Sony ICD-ST25VTP Digital Voice Recorder with Voice-to-Print Software
/Sony
comments: "Limited by single speed" It is a fine transcriber if you only use single speed tapes, but for those who want to tape at half speed to utilize tape space better (i.e. recording 180 minutes on a 90 minute tape), it's not the machine for you. You'll be stuck with a lot of tapes you can't transcribe.
"Straightforward and workmanlike machine" If you need to transcribe tapes for any reason at all you will save yourself hours of time and frustration by using a tape recorder/player intended for transcription - rather than your tape player alone. Panasonic has been making this good machine for more than a few years. To my knowledge it's the best value around.
The foot pedal is essential and easy to use, and allows you to stop, start, and back up your tape without taking your hands off your keyboard. The speaker is good, there is a tone adjustment, and in addition a headset (and this one is comfortable to wear) enables quiet transcribing - and improved intelligibility, because the sound of your keys going a mile a minute won't interfere with your hearing your taped material. Importantly, there is a control lever for tape speed - for "variable speech control," so that you can play your tape a bit slower, or faster (which you sometimes need, too).
There is a mic and a remote jack, and fast forward and fast reverse. A tape counter - your odometer - is helpful. Different little lights glow when you're taping, recording, when the machine is on. This is a straightforward, simple, and gimmickless machine that is very nicely put together. It measures a neat and tidy 8 by 10 inches, and packs up simply and with no fanfare. Indispensible - if you need to transcribe tapes.
description: If you are on the phone for hours a day, the benefits of a headset over a handset become clear--especially if it is as light and comfortable as the Plantronics T10 model. This phone uses a corded headset, which decreases mobility somewhat, but it is unusual in that it comes with every accessory you'll need to use the headset in an over-the-head or over-the-ear configuration.
Installing this phone is child's play. A standard telephone cord (included) connects the small base unit to a wall jack, and the headset cord connects to the front of the unit. No power cord is necessary. Plantronics used a standard telephone jack interface for the headset but wisely used light headphone cable instead of bulky telephone cord on the unit. This helps keep the headset's already low weight to a minimum. They've also thoughtfully included a small alligator clip on the headset cord so you can clip it to a shirt pocket and keep the cord from brushing your face as you move.
As mentioned, the headset microphone and speaker unit can be attached to an ear hook or a headband. The headband is very light and highly adjustable, but we preferred using the ear hooks. Plantronics packages three different sizes of hooks with the device, so there's bound to be one that fits. The hooks sit on your ear instead of using a clamping mechanism, and the entire assembly is so light and unobtrusive that we were able to forget it was there after a few minutes. The microphone is the type that extends to your cheek instead of in front of your lips, so you don't have to deal with it bumping against your lips when you talk. For all these reasons, we were able to wear the headset all day without it getting in the way or making us look like extras from a bad sci-fi movie.
As for the sound quality, it was great under most circumstances. The microphone is so sensitive that it can pick up the hum of a computer if it's pointed in that direction, so this may not be the best solution for noisy environments. For typical office use, the T10 is great as long as you don't need a lot of advanced features on the base, such as two-line input or caller ID. --T. Byrl Baker
Pros:
Very light and comfortable
Microphone doesn't get in your face or brush against your lips
Comes with all the accessories you need
Cons:
The headset cord can get tangled in things if your desk is a mess
Sensitive microphone can pick up too much background noise
comments: "Only good if you don't care what the other person is saying" I use this phone at work. I have been looking for a replacement. The features are nice and the headset holder is nice to have, but it has one terrible flaw - the clarity is non-existent! It sounds like the person on the other end is talking through a pillow. Turning up the volume doesn't help, either, it only amplifies the fuzz. We have another, older Plantronics phone that has much better sound quality, so maybe we just got a faulty one. I wouldn't risk it, though.
"Great Performer!" I needed a phone for a home office. This phone was recommended and I bought it through an Amazon affiliated merchant. It is my 1st handsfree phone and I love the convenience of it! No more neck aches. Sound quality is as good or better than my cordless phone and no interference so far from any of the other equipment in the office. Small size base, comfortable headset. I would change 2 things - the MUTE button is right above the ON/OFF button and could cause an embarrassing hangup. The other is a longer headset cord. It appears to be about three feet long. Otherwise very nice!"great quality!" This is the second model of this phone I have purchased - I'm a repeat buyer because the first one worked out so well. Great, clear sound quality, and a comfortable headset. I prefer a corded phone to cordless for the security factor, and because in a power outage a cordless phone is not operable. If you want a corded phone with a headset, this is the one!
comments: "Better than HP49G and HP 48GX" I own TI Voyage 200, HP 49G, and HP 48GX.
HP 48GX comes with a very good equation library. Operation is OK. Not very difficult to learn. Plug-in hardware card is a plus because you won't delete purchased software accidently. Overall, HP 48GX is good but is a little bit old in this modern world.
HP 49G has no equation library. Very difficult to learn and use. Insufficient of manuals, books, and resources. Calculation and graphing are often slower than Voyage 200 for the same problems. The answers to polynomial sometimes look like 0.9999998 but the Voyage 200 gives 1. Some people say HP 49G is the most powerful graphing calculator in the world. As an owner, I would say I don't know. Be aware, HP discontinued their research and development of graphing calculators sometime ago.
TI Voyage 200 is the best. Bigger and better resolution viewer screen. Computer-like keyborad saves your time and efforts that compares to ALPHA ALPHA *****. The keyboard layout also avoids mistakes. Comes with many pre-loaded applications and you can download and transfer more by yourself. Very easy to learn, I did not spend too much effort and feel I can handle this calculator. Plenty of instruction manuals, books, and resources that are compatible to TI 92 Plus and TI-89. It is a pleasure to own and use Voyage 200.
"Best Damn Calculator Ever!!!" If anyone shows me a calculator who can take more than the 500th power of 2 without scientific notation and rounding -whole number displayed - i will buy that calculator.And the Voyage can pass that, depends on memory available. This thing insane to say the least. Do not buy it unless you are a math or physics or related major. Its over kill for trig or algebra. This thing does miracle in my labs for both chem and physics; and in multivariable calculus and differential equations and linear algebra courses it will give you what no book can: answers to every problem. It is so easy to check yourself with this. Thats why its called PLT- Personal Learning Tool. It has everything. The fact that it is a TI and succesor to the 92 Plus speaks for itself. Any HP is a spec of dust compared to this. I should point out that the Voyage 200 is an upgrade on the 92 plus. Thats why theres no printed manual. Uses same manual as TI 89. But if you go to [websit]you will find alot of stuff on using it."A great product" The voyage 200 is the finest calculator that I have ever had. Its performance is remarkable and it is a user-friendly product. You do not have to remember in which button is the function that you need, or deal with buttons that have impressed three or more function in different colors. Just type the function and that is it. That is simple, is not it?
It is also outstanding the main menu and its easy navigation. You can customize it by adding software applications from the texas instruments web page. The "Computer Algebra" application can solve equations, integrals and much more. "Organizer" mades a nice calendar to schedule activities, classes, and keep track of the important business of you life. "Notefolio" and "Cell sheet" are applications that work as interface for text and data between calculator and computer.
The operative system can be downloaded to the calculator via USB cable with out problems. In conclusion, I believe that is a great product. Just be careful, so many features are not allowed in most of the standardized test and courses.
Panasonic KX-TG2357B 2.4 GHz DSS Cordless Phone with Dual Handsets, Answering System, and Talking Caller ID (Black)
Panasonic KX-TG2357B 2.4 GHz DSS Cordless Phone with Dual Handsets, Answering System, and Talking Caller ID (Black)
/Panasonic
description: The KX-TG2357B is a 2.4 GHz phone system that comes with a number of useful extras, including a second handset and integrated answering machine. By utilizing the 2.4 GHz frequency and digital frequency-hoping spread spectrum technology, the phone is able to offer clearer reception at greater distances than traditional analog and even many digital phones. Plus, Panasonic's Voice Enhancer technology helps to reproduce a wider frequency range than many other phones do, resulting in more intelligible speech.
Caller ID has a 50-number internal memory and audibly announces the name or number of the incoming caller. A 30-number internal phone directory allows you to store your most frequently used phone numbers, while a display-and-dial feature lets you scroll through either the directory or caller ID lists and call with the touch of a button.
Additional features include an all-digital answering machine with a new-call indicator, so you know when you have new messages waiting. An intercom/paging function allows you to communicate with other phones on the system, while speakerphones on both the base and handsets allows you to communicate hands-free. Illuminated handset keypads make dialing easy, even in the dark. Headset compatible, the KX-TG2357B also comes with a belt clip and is wall-mountable, keeping your countertop clear from extra clutter.
What's in the Box Base unit, two handsets, two battery packs, two battery covers, one remote charger base, two AC adapters, two belt clips, one telephone line cord, one wall mount, instructions
comments: "Finally all the best features in one!" Panasonic has definitely been doing their homework. The KX-TG2357B has all the best features one could want in a cordless answering system in both function and appearance at a very reasonable price. I'm a confessed phone nut, searching for the "perfect phone". I own both Motorola and Panasonic's top of the line models of 2003 (MD681 & KX-TG5100 respectively) but I just wasn't satisfied. Recently I noticed Panasonic had presented a new model line,did some research and purchased the 2357B. What I found was a collection of great features and improvements, which to save time, I'll list below.
1) Lighter handset, slightly smaller with an improved ergomomic contour with crisp backlit LED displays. 2)Improved handset speaker phone voice quality. 3)NMH battery. 4)Short antenna with a ringer/message alert light on the tip! 5)Simplified navigation buttons contolling a cell phone system. (no more space wasting navigation disc) 6)Full commication (phonebook , intercom and conference) between handsets. 7)Intuative, simple answering system controls with very usefull LED display window. 8)Attractive styling in charcoal black. Enough silver already! 9)Talking caller ID. Works great!! 10)Includes 2 handsets!
I join the previous reviewers in highly recomending this phone system, so thoughtfully executed, at a better than reasonable price!
"Highly recommended" I agree 100% with "An electronic fan's" previous review. I'll just add that the range on this phone is great. I walked 1 block from my house with the phone and it sound just as clear as it does 20ft from the transmitter.
Also, if you have caller ID service this phone has talking caller ID which works surprizingly well. When you receive a call the phone will ring a couple of times and then announce "call from Doe, John" from the handsets and the base. This makes it easy to screen your calls.
I really like the fact that you can access just about every function and feature through the handsets like retrieving messages, speakerphone, editing settings, etc.
An excellent value, highly recommended.
"Lots of Value for the Money" This Panasonic phone was a replacement for a previous 900MHz model that we'd had for a number of years. I checked out ratings for cordless phones at a leading consumer magazine's website, and Panasonic was by far the highest-rated manufacturer, though there are many fine brands of cordless phones.
What sets this model apart is the features included for a very reasonable price, especially the inclusion of a second handset. It's great to have what amounts to three phones in one, since the base unit includes a keypad of its own in addition to the handset it accomodates. The base has a speakerphone built in, as do the handsets, so you can work hands-free anywhere. The ability to plug in a headset to the handsets is also convenient, though I personally don't envision the need to do so.
The clarity of the sound is truly extraordinary, and one of Panasonic's main advantages. The Voice Enhancer technology is valuable in the event of a bad connection, but even without it the intelligibility is superb.
Another nice feature is the variable ring tones on the base unit as well as the handsets, including several melodies. You can also subscribe to a service where other melodies and tones are downloadable, but this seems a bit nonsensical. After all - it's a phone, not a stereo system!
The unit and the handsets are easy to operate, and the instruction manual is clearly written with plenty of diagrams.
You won't be disappointed with the KX-TG2357B - it's a great system, easy to use, great-sounding, and the price is right.
By the way, I didn't happen to purchase mine at Amazon, but wanted you to know that this is a fine product for your consideration.
description: Easily carried in your shirt pocket, the C Pen 600C handheld scanner supplies supremely convenient scanning options for students, travelers, and professionals. About the size of your sunglasses, this scanner arrives loaded with Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, providing users with instant access to 215,000 definitions. Its four-row display shows your scans clearly, and it speeds through text at a rate of 15 centimeters per second.
Usable from your right or left hand, the scanner can store up to 3,000 pages of files in its memory, along with 1,000 entries for personal and business contacts. All of these can be easily transferred to your Windows-based PC, or Palm, Visor, or Sony PDA, via an infrared port or serial cable. Download one of 11 foreign language dictionaries, and the scanner becomes an instant translator, making it ideal for travelers.
The scanner is fueled by two AAA batteries, which supply power for up to three hours of continuous use or a few minutes each day for several weeks. Included in the box are batteries, a soft carrying case, and a detachable serial cable, as well as a software package that allows you to save, edit, and transfer your scans with ease. The manufacturer supplies a one-year limited warranty.
comments: "Every Writers, Educators, Researchers & Lawyers Dream!" The C-Pen is simply the best tool I ever came across for any kind of writing from research to novels to what ever your needs will ever be in the future.
The days of being at the Reference section of any library and copying and retyping are over. One swift use of the C-Pen and your in rewrite heaven with easy citations. Ever read an article in a magazine or newspaper and want to comment on it, just use the C-Pen, you got the exact quote and can respond in kind! See a specific piece of research you want to quote, scan it in line by line with the citation. The Business card scan with C-Pen is easier and faster than rewriting it on palm pilot!
I read how you must get use to using this device. I found no such problems. The text need only be put on a surface to steady it, then scanning line by line so long you keep your hand steady and straight makes it quite easy! The only one drawback is scanning underline text, but I found that to be a minor problem compared to the overall great benefits.
What I really appreciated was the easy installation. The OCR is simply amazing and works in Microsoft Word with absolute ease and speed. This is especially gratifying because I expected complications and found none!
I loaded the software and called Technical Support to make sure this was the latest device on the market! I was at first disappointed I was unable reach a real person, but within a half an hour they called back and walked me through it! When I found out the newer model holds more with a bigger dictionary, I was still satisfied with the 600-C. Depends on your needs whether you want to spend the extra cash on the 800-C model. The booklet is like a Car Manual, but if you take the time to read it, you will never read it again!
I made only one big mistake, I did not check Amazon.com first and saw the price is about $40.00 under retail prices at all stores I checked everywhere! I was unable to take back the device without a re-stocking fee so don't make my mistake, buy it from Amazon.com.
In closing, you will never regret buying this device and using it often for your purposes. It is simply the easiest and best product I have ever used and seen in quite awhile! It is every writers, businessperson, lawyers and research educators dream!
"Not perfect, but good enough" I am a student reading tens of pages daily I am supposed to remember. The only way for me remembering what I have read is exposing myself to the key sentences 3-4 times daily. So here is what I do since I have my C-Pen:
1. When I read a book, after I read and understood a chapter I scan the important info with my C-Pen out of the book. 2. I beam the file into my Palm. (if necesarry I edit it on my pc, but usually it is not needed)
Whenever I have a little time like in the elevator or during lunch or waiting for the bus, I just flip out my palm and read a sentence or two so that the subject I dealt with comes back. This method rocks. I can refresh or recall things I have read months ago! Everything is at the touch of my finger in my palm.
This method works for me so much that I am willing to deal with the CPen 600. It is not flawless. I have found the scanning is accurate enough only for books with ordinary text: not many abbreviations special characters etc. My books are luckily like this, so I only have a letter wrong every 3rd sentence or so. Fine, I don't mind that.
But do not expect that you can just see some tel number in a newspaper or some mathematical expression and scan it out with 100% accuracy. First of all, I have found that I have to adjust the pen for every book I scan, which take 10 secs altogether. Secondly, when you want to scan important data, you can not afford the accuracy of this pen.
Summary: Good for students researchers, people who deal with lots of plain text and want to make notes.
One more cool feature is that I can carry my files (6M) in the C-Pen between my office and home computer.
Not good for quick 1-line scans from various sources.
"Enhanced Student Productivity" As a foreigner going to north america for student exchange, I found this pen indispensable. The pen proved itself already on the flight over the pond; the man next to me got curious about my device and the following conversation ended with a business card and my first contact on the scary continent. I especially use the pen for translation and am more than happy with its use. The only thing its lacking is an easy way to build a list of words I've looked up; I'd like to save all the words I've looked up in a special file for further repetition and learning. It takes some time to get use to scanning text but once you get the hang of it C-pen is just great. A definite buy for anyone who uses a dictionary frequently. C-direct, the function that lets you scan text straight into the cursor's position (in a Word document e.i.) is also usable. Of little use is the address book. There is no need to have your address book in Outlook, cell-phone, PDA and C-pen. If you need more than one dictionary (I could need one English-Swedish-English plus one English-English)you need to get the C-pen 800 (has more RAM). But with the 800 you also get (and thus pay for) some other useless functions such as SMS and fax.
HP Pavilion F1903 19" LCD Monitor
HP Pavilion F1903 19" LCD Monitor
/Hewlett Packard
description: A 19-inch TFT LCD from HP, the F1903 is a sleek and stylish monitor that delivers a high-quality image and a number of useful features. A 1,280 x 1,024 maximum resolution and 0.294 mm dot pitch combine with a 500:1 contrast ratio and 250 nits of brightness to provide detailed, true-to-life images suitable for a wide variety uses. The F1903 has a 130-degree horizontal viewing angle (120 degrees vertical), while the anti-glare, and anti-static screen treatment helps cut back on harmful reflections and the resulting eyestrain. The F1903 also comes with two Harmon/Kardon speakers, providing a stand-alone audio output. It connects to your computer via its analog D-sub or DVI-D digital port and has a fast 20 ms response time.
With its small 16.6-by-8.5-inch footprint, the F1903 fits easily onto any convenient surface and is also wall mountable, freeing up desktop space completely. TCO '03 and Energy Star certified, the F1903 is a plug-and-play monitor, ready to use right out of the box. It weighs just 17.2 pounds. With the onscreen controls, you can adjust a wide variety of monitor settings including brightness, contrast, H/V position, H/V size, and color temperature. The AC 100 - 240V, 50 - 60Hz power supply consumes less than 40 W during normal operation, and less than 2 W in power save mode. PC and Mac compatible, the F1903 also comes backed with a three-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Monitor, detachable base, two Harmon/Kardon speakers, user's manual, power adapter and cable, monitor cable, warranty card
comments: "Thoughtful design" This is my first LCD monitor, and I'm so picky that I did a lot of research and in-store playing before making my selection.
Comparing models side-by-side in the store, I found that despite the f1903's reported contrast ratio of only 500:1, I found it consistently as bright if not brighter than others with higher reported contrast ratios. (I was sure to check all the brightness/contrast settings.) So I wonder what that number really means. The lesson here is to look at the screen for yourself.
The highest praise goes to the very adjustable base and stand. It will tilt and swivel and even raise up and down to find your comfortable viewing angle. I was surprised to find that the height adjustment actually acts like a spring tensioned to the weight of the monitor, so it only takes a simple lift or press of the frame to raise and lower it.
It ships with the brightness set to 100% and the contrast at only 50%, but actually that looks perfect for a dim environment. Raising the contrast to 75% will sufficiently blast your retinas, but beyond that I notice some color distortions at the bright end.
It also ships set to a color temperature of 6500K (warm/yellow), and also offers 9300K (cool/blue), but I found that a custom setting of RGB(50,50,55) looks best to me.
The on-screen control interface is very attractive, but still functional. Unlike some other models I tried, it doesn't take 2 minutes to adjust a value from 0 to 100%. It could benefit from some presets or memory settings though, so one could quickly adjust for viewing in bright areas, dark areas, movie viewing, etc. It offers a slick opacity setting that you can adjust to your liking, and you can also move the control area around the screen. I moved mine to the lower right corner so it's above the buttons on the bezel, which makes sense to me.
My model shows one stuck pixel that comes and goes. Not bad when the HP specs allow for up to 7 flaws. And this one's not even noticable except on a black screen.
The viewing angle is reported at 170 degrees horizontal, but that's hardly an exact property to be measured. I actually find that when I move more than 30 degrees off center, the image turns slightly yellow like an old newspaper and gets dimmer as the angle increases. I don't see any sort of cut-off around 170 degrees though.
Pixel response would have to be my biggest disappointment, but I should point out that I'm picky. When scrolling black text in a browser, it can turn slightly purple or blue. Certain color combinations are particular bad though, and I discovered this while playing Yahoo! Pool. A red or pink ball moving across a green background leaves a very noticeable trail. Upon seeing this, I tried viewing a DVD, and found that certain high-speed action such as the running of a horse's legs will get blurred and possibly change color. But I realize that LCD technology has yet to match the performance of a traditional CRT, and given that, this monitor doesn't do bad at all. I've seen much worse on laptop screens.
I also noticed that this particular LCD acts a little different than most when touched. Specifically, it leaves not just a dot where my finger pressed, but a dot with an X through it. This is neither good nor bad, but I just found it interesting. I'm curious what technology is at work behind that behavior.
I should note that I'm using the DVI connection and supplied DVI-D cable. (The box doesn't indicate that any DVI cable is included, but mine had one, so don't do like I did and buy one extra then have to return it.) However for analog connections, there are some very simple calibration tools to give you the best possible picture. And the "auto" button on the bezel is only for analog connections. (I tried to use the calibration and the auto button before I realized it wasn't necessary for digital connections.)
Overall I'm very satisfied, but it loses a star for the viewing angle and pixel response.
"Elevates your desktop to new levels and a good tv screen" A 19 inch monitor is pretty big these days for a PC. Apple with their new 30 widescreen is in a different league (more like furniture), but for normal people this monitor will suffice. It makes my old 17 inch LCD feel small and is probably as big as my 20 inch TV.
For the price (get it at discount), you can't beat this HP F1903. Not only does it look good, it is sharp, relatively bright, just large enough to wow you and its stand will elevate off your desk almost 8 inches. Why does this matter? You will no longer scrunch your back while you potatosurf the internet.
The default settings were already at 100% brightness, but the contrast seemed low. Boosting contrast slightly made reading a lot easier and increased sharpness slightly. If you increase contrast too much, the colors change (like from grey to yellowgrey).
I have a TV tuner card in my desktop and having a 19 inch TV on your desktop will instantly save you couch time for that casual channel surfing when you're bored.
The colors are not as saturated as the Samsung 19 inch that my friend has, but are more realistic. Skin does look smooth on this monitor, not red or orange. Which brings me to this: Download the most current drivers on the HP website for an accurate color profile.
The package weighs 26 pounds and this is mostly due to the heavy base. All is forgiven when you slide this monitor up higher off your desk. Your posture will thank you for sure.
I paid slightly more than a 17 inch monitor and got a great 19 inch LCD which looks modern and gives me larger viewing (at 1280x1024, everything looks better bigger vs. a 17inch monitor). The silver bezel looks nice against a light colored wall- it is not as imposing as an all black monitor. HP has some high quality touches like a backlit power button, a very good antiglare coating, and a very solid (almost heavy) base. It comes fully assembled and with a pair of basic Harmon Kardon speakers (I have not used yet).
comments: "CD/DVD Printing Makes It Worth The Price Alone" When I first read about this printer in a computer magazine, I was immediately impressed by its functions and price point. CD/DVD printers cost $100's more and even then, they usually just serve that single function. Later that day, I went out and bought one.
The R200 not only prints directly onto the discs, but is also a quality photo printer. You can print out crisp images with that function as well as carry out normal day-to-day tasks like homework and other documents. It's great because the printer has an extra USB port on the front of the machine for easy hookup to a laptop. The software for the printer is easy to install and there really was no printer alignment necessary. It did all the work for me.
The only thing you really need to buy, if you don't already have one, is a USB cable because it doesn't come with one packed in the box. Yeah, I know. I was disappointed in that too, but the features made up for that. Speaking of features, in order to successfully print onto a disc, you must use an Ink-Jet printable disc. Otherwise, you'll have a disc with a pool of ink on it.
"Not what it claims to be by any stretch" The good news.... OK it prints on white paper, and if you set it to its highest quality (slowest printing) it will turn out pretty decent photos. And on the off chance that you are able to load the CD/DVD tray into it exactly the way it wants, it will print on CD's relatively well. Now for the real review of this printer: Text is abysmal, even on its best setting. I have a Canon i860, which in every way (text and graphics/photos) blows the doors off this Epson. Printing CD's which really is the ONLY actual reason anyone would buy this over ANY Canon, is a chore at best. You must print them one at time (choosing more than 1 copy craps out the tray alignment for the next copy, which brings on the error message) and it takes a REALLY LONG TIME. Don't get me wrong, the quality in "Best Photo" on CD's is pretty great.... but the hassle with the tray never being happy and the S L O W print speed is just not worth it. WAAAAAAAAYY better results are achieved using the Avery Afterburner kit and printing labels with ANY Canon printer. I had an Epson several years ago, and upon buying Canon, will never go back to Epson. The quality difference is measured in light years. But alas Canon has no CD printer in the U.S., only Europe. So if you're contemplating this as your primary printer, and just every once in a while will print to CD's... move on to another brand that is actually capable of printing clean black text. If you just need a printer to print 2 or 3 CD's a week, this will suffice."Inexpensive brother of R300" Update of my first review below. I've now owned the printer for nearly three months and its everything I had expected. I don't use it for text so I don't know about its text quality, but its photo prints are awesome using Epson's Colorlife, Premium Glossy, and Heavyweight Matte papers which are good with the types of ink in this printer. Ink usage seems light. Its hard to estimate but I'd guess I've printed the equivalent of 70-80 4x6's and so far each of my ink cartridges seem to be less than half used. I chose the Epson not just for the print quality, which has not disappointed, but also for the cost of consumables. Check paper prices before you buy because you really do want to stick with the correct brand papers unless you really know what your doing. And DON'T use non branded ink if you really want pictures with accurate color. ..................... I don't own this, but I'm ordering it today. It has exactly the same print engine and software as the R300 that's almost twice the price - I checked the specs at Epson. If you don't need the card readers or pictbridge, buy this instead. On the Canon printers you have to go to the i960 also close to twice the price to find a six color printer. Read Steve's digicams reviews of the R300 if you want to know how well this prints. The best buy out there. The inks alone are worth $70.
Motorola MD41 2.4 GHz Accessory Handset for Motorola MD400 Series (Silver)
Motorola MD41 2.4 GHz Accessory Handset for Motorola MD400 Series (Silver)
/Motorola
description: Expand the capabilities of any Motorola MD400 series cordless phone by adding one (or more) MD41 2.4 GHz digital cordless handset. Designed to fit seamlessly into your current cordless system, the MD41 houses the same great features you've come to rely on, including caller ID (with 50 stored names and numbers), visual call waiting, and auto-scanning for superior call quality.
All user controls are accessed through the handset, while caller information is displayed on the handset's four-line backlit LCD. Additional phone features include speakerphone, three-way conferencing, illuminated keypad, walkie talkie function, intercom, selectable ring tones, hold, flash, mute, redial, and many more. The MD41 has a stylish silver design, can be desk or wall mounted, and comes backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box MD41 handset with base, NiCD battery pack, charging transformer, user manual, one-year limited warranty
comments: "A good phone, but weak battery performance" We've had good luck with the sound quality and range on these phones, but the battery life is terrible (all three handsets have been this way since day one).
If the handset is off the charger for about 2 hours and then you have a call, chances are you'll start to get the annoying low-battery beeps within 10-20 minutes. Because of this, the handsets are generally kept on the chargers at all times, which sort of defeats the convenience of a cordless phone.
"Works just fine for us" I have been using this phone for a month now and have had no problems, definately an upgrade over a 900mhz system, and the price difference between the new 5.8 systems makes this an affordable system."Good Build Quality but Terrible Sound Quality" As I said in my review of the base system, Motorola has on paper a nice looking system with a lot of neat features; but in reality the sound quality is extremly poor to the point of being useless to me.
Also note: in my case the extra handset I bought would not read the "Shared" phone directory the that handsets that came with the system shared so there seems to be different revisions between these handsets and the ones coming with the base units.
After using these for the last 2 months, I can say this whole MD4XX system from Motorola is not recommended by me. I have now gotten rid of them and am much happier with their replacement (Motorola's new 5.8ghz system)
Calculated Industries 6130C Scale Master II
Calculated Industries 6130C Scale Master II
/Calculated Industries
comments: "Review of the 6125 Scale Master 2" I like the accuracy of the unit and the custom scales. I have had two of these that the reset button quit working on and one of them has a sticking count button. The count button is at a very uncomfortable location. It really needs to be located closer to the wheel where your finger naturally rests. I use this every day of the week and depend on it very much.
"Saves time, and we all know that time is money" This is a must have for anyone still manually scaling prints. Radius' are a breeze and the custom scales are great for quotes requested via fax. The easy of use is outstanding. Even for the "not so computer minded". It's a snap. You will be amazed how quick you can finish a print.
description: The E250 is a 2.5 GHz accessory handset designed for use with AT&T's E2525 and E2555 expandable phone systems. It operates on the 2.4 GHz band and employs frequency-hopping digital spread spectrum technology to provide a clear, accurate signal with less interference. The base systems (required, sold separately) support up to eight handsets, allowing you to place an extension wherever you need one, without an additional phone jack.
Caller ID/call waiting compatible, the E250 has a 50-number caller ID memory, while a 50-number phone directory is provided to help you keep track of important phone numbers. You can access the base answering system from the handset, and an intercom feature lets you communicate with other handsets on the system. With conferencing, you can speak with multiple parties at the same time, while the call transfer function lets you route incoming calls to another handset location.
The redial button gives you access to the last 10 outgoing numbers, and the flash button allows you to access call waiting (with subscription to a fee-based service). An illuminated keypad makes dialing in the dark a snap, and a handset volume control lets you adjust levels to your liking. The E250 is headset compatible and comes backed by a one-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box Cordless handset, charging cradle, AC adapter, NiCd battery, belt clip, instructions
description: The Motorola MD681 combines powerful 5.8 GHz digital technology with strong call features, an integrated answering system, and expandability to six compatible handsets, each offering caller ID and visual call waiting. Plus, the phone includes a digital answering system with three individual mailboxes.
See a detailed view of the phone's feature.
comments: "Nice cordless digital" I installed a WiFi system after I had already purchased a 2.4 GHz Uniden. Obviously, every time we used the phone, our network computer connection would totally cut out. I decided to try the Motorola (the 5.8 GHz AT&T received on the 2.4 GHz channel and the Panasonic was too tall for the main unit's location).
I'm pleased to say the Motorola works great, without interference. The phone has great battery life, very attractive blue lighting, and has the solid feel of a well-built machine and is very comfortable to hold.
It has many standard bells and whistles. The sound is very clear throughout the house, and the extra battery (same as the AT&T) is a great plus for backup power. The answering machine and speaker phone sound quality is also very good, and the ringer can be heard anywhere in the house.
One thing I miss from the Uniden I had was the ability to assign distinctive rings to various callers/numbers to identify them by sound. The types of rings are more limited than on the Uniden. There is also no way to access the stored numbers in the phone's memory, so even with caller ID, there is often just a generic identification or phone number even when the information is stored in memory. One last minus, the phone is driven entirely via menu system, just like their cell phones. While you can access lots of settings, Some may like this system, but I preferred the simplicity of the Uniden in setting up.
Overall, the Motorola does what I needed it to do, and is a well-made, attractive unit. If it had the ring settings and caller ID storage access, I would've rated it a 5.
"Great phone at a great price!" This phone is awesome! I purchased it about a month ago and have been very happy with it. The only reason it does not get 5 stars, is because the ring tones are not the greatest. However, it does not effect the wireless internet and the battery life is fantastic. The redial is also very handy. Not only can you redial the last number dialed, but it has a list of your last numbers dialed. Furthermore, the base lights up when any phone in the house is in use (doesn't have to be the motorola phone). If you want to call a number on the caller ID list, the phone gives you many options to do so. If you are not into creating your own answering machine message, motorola has a decent one programed on the machine. Way to go Motorola! Finally a great phone at a low price!"dissapointed" i bought this unit and was very pleased until i had a problem.<br />
my dog broke the power pack and motorola said i cant get a replacement part. i thought why cant i buy another power pack. motorola said they do not sell replacement parts so my phone is no good now.<br />
i bought a uniden cheaper and it actually sounds better then the motorola. it was 1/3 the price
Sony X-Brite SDM-HS94P/B 19" LCD Monitor (Black)
Sony X-Brite SDM-HS94P/B 19" LCD Monitor (Black)
/Sony
description: You'll be the envy of every gadget geek on the block with Sony's SDM-HS94P on your desktop. Not only does it have a glamorous frame, but its technology offers outstanding graphics. Connect to analog and digital graphics cards with ease (both cables included). A curvy stand offers 90 degrees of swivel, while the generous 19-inch display provides 1,280 x 1,024 native resolution and a 500:1 contrast ratio, so you'll be in good hands while you're working away on spreadsheets or chopping evildoers in your favorite game.
Sony's variable lighting technology insures a clean view under any lighting conditions: brightness ranges from 150 to 400 nits. The 160-degree viewing angles permit flexible placement and let everyone see the action when they're gathered around your desk. Sony provides a three-year warranty covering parts, service, and backlight.
What's in the Box Display, stand, AC power cord, cord strap, PC/Mac utility CD-ROM, analog monitor cable, digital monitor cable, user manual, warranty information
description: You'll get full-color, professional-quality print results with the HP PhotoSmart 7960 Photo Printer. Delivering everyday print output at up to 21 ppm or 4-by-6-inch photos in just over 90 seconds, the 7960 can handle a variety of tasks.
The HP PhotoSmart 7960 features HP's exclusive photo resolution enhancement technology: HP PhotoREt Pro utilizes eight-ink printing, ultra small ink drops, true neutral grays, and photo blacks to print everything from professional color images to impressive black-and-white prints with accurate shadow detail. The eight colors come from the No. 59 gray photo cartridge with two shades of gray ink and a special photo black; from the No. 57 tri-color cartridge with cyan, magenta, and yellow; and from the No. 58 photo cartridge with photo cyan and photo magenta (the black in the No. 58 is not used for eight-color printing).
Designed for PC and Mac users alike, the 7960 also offers two USB ports and four memory card slots, so you can print images directly from your digital camera. And, the built-in 2.5-inch LCD lets you preview, edit, and even remove red-eye from images before you print. The printer offers versatile paper handling through it's standard 100-sheet paper tray and built-in 20-sheet 4-by-6-inch photo tray. It also supports an optional duplexing accessory. The 7960 is backed by a one-year limited hardware warranty.
What's in the Box HP PhotoSmart 7960 photo printer, HP 56 black inkjet print cartridge (19ml) C6656AN, HP 57 tri-color inkjet print cartridge (17ml) C6657AN, HP 58 photo inkjet print cartridge (17ml) C6658AN, HP 59 gray inkjet print cartridge (17ml) C9359AN, power supply, Basics guide and setup poster, CD-ROM with HP Photo & Imaging software for Microsoft Windows and Macintosh, HP Memories Disc Creator software, HP media sampler; USB cable not included
comments: "I love my HP Photosmart 7960" I was looking for an 8 1/2 by 11 inch borderless printer for producing high quality double sided product brochures. I bought an Epson Stylus Photo R800. WRONG thing to buy. It does 8 1/2 by 11 and it does borderless printing, but NOT on 8 1/2 by 11 media. The largest borderless print media is 8 by 10, and no one makes that in two sided print surfaces. I returned the Epson and got the HP. What a relief, it does exactly what I want and is not finicky, lots of options for acceptable paper. I did have some trouble installing software however. I had to shut down and remove all other USB devices and then load the printer before it would install properly. Otherwise 5 stars.
"Everyone should have one!" Combine this printer with the new HP Premium Plus photo paper and you would swear that your prints were from film! I recieved this printer as a gift this weekend and spent today in heaven playing with it. First off, it is the easiest printer I have ever dealt with! You don't even need to have a computer hooked up! The panel is intuitive; but, gives you a lot of control including print size, # of copies, zoom, and rotate. And everything you do to the photo is shown on the screen which adjusts to whatever angle is easiest for you to view. I was printing using the low-end black ink instead of the higher quality grayscale ink and I am still amazed at the quality of the prints! If you are looking for an amazing printer which is easy to operate, this is the one you want!"Great Printer" One thing a lot of people do not realize is that the reason why the ink cartridges are so expensive is b/c the manufacturers sell the printers usually at lower than cost and then they recoup their sales through the accessories such as paper and ink cartridges. Yes, it may seem to be unscrupulous, but HP and all the others are in the business of making money. As for the person who had problems printing envelopes, remove all the paper and use the paper guides and resize them to the envelope. I've had no trouble printing envelopes with my 7960. One feature that people have also failed to mention is even though the memory card slots are there so you don't need the computer to print your photos, they also save you the trouble of attaching your camera to the computer since you can move your pictures from your memory card to your hard drive since the printer also acts as a removable drive. everyone has been blown away when I tell them that I printed these pictures at home, and i find that the pictures that it prints are better than when I took my memory card to wal mart. Plus, it was quicker. It was no problem using my Sony digital camera with my HP printer. One more thing, buy the printer at Sam's or Wal-Mart as it is only $187.
description: The Olympus DM-20 stereo digital voice recorder/music player packs 128 MB of built-in flash memory to give you nearly 44 hours (2,680 minutes) of voice recording or a full hour of near-CD-quality music in either MP3 or WMA formats. The DM-20's compact, lightweight design and smooth, silvery finish make it an ideal travel companion. Measuring a mere 4.31 x 1.56 x 0.6 inches (H x W x D) and weighing in at a mere 3 ounces, the attractive and ergonomic DM-20 fits comfortably in the hand of the on-the-go professional or exercise enthusiast.
The DM-20 has 5 separate file folders capable of holding 199 files each, so you can organize nearly 1,000 files according to subjects like "work," "personal," and "to do." When recording, simply capture your high-quality voice files in either WMA or DSS (Digital Speech Standard) format and then place the recorder in the included USB docking station to begin downloading hours of audio to a PC or Macintosh computer. Stereo voice recording is possible with an optional stereo microphone.
Alarm playback will alert you to meetings, dates, show reminders, or wake-up times. You can simply dictate reminders into the DM-20--such as "Time to pick up the kids!"--and assign a time for this message to sound, like an alarm clock's buzzer.
Built-in WOW sound enhancement produces rich bass, and three-dimensional sound, while a user-selectable 5-setting equalizer lets you tailor the sound to your taste or environment. Olympus's innovative noise-canceling technology makes the sound even clearer. removing unwanted hiss and background noise.
The unit offers a built-in condenser microphone, and a .125-inch microphone jack gives you the option to use a high-quality external mic (not included). A .125-inch earphone jack and supplied stereo ear bud headphones let you monitor your files during or after recording. To suit various sound conditions, you can adjust the microphone's sensitivity. The recorder can be viewed in low-light situations, such as at a lecture hall or during presentations, thanks to its easy-to-read backlit LCD.
After capturing recordings you can erase them or move them between folders. The DM-20 also lets you set up to 16 index marks per message, during recording and during playback. This way, you can locate specific sections of individual dictations quickly and easily. The individual files may be played back at three different speeds: normal, fast, or slow, through either the built-in speaker or the supplied earphones. In addition, with the Repeat Playback function, the DM-20 can repeatedly play back a particular user-selected section of audio recording--ideal for transcribing dictation.
The unit's Variable Control Voice Actuator (VCVA) ensures that recording begins only when sound occurs, while its security lock prevents accidental deletion of sensitive files.
The DM-20 is perfectly suited to meet varying professional needs. You can easily attach voice files to e-mails or forward them to others for transcription. The optional AS-3000 transcription kit (DSS Player Pro transcription module with foot switch and headset) can further streamline this process. The DM-20 is also compatible with most voice recognition software, including IBM's Via Voice.
What's in the Box Voice recorder, docking station, USB cable, stereo ear bud headphones, a CD-ROM, a user's manual, and warranty information.
comments:
Panasonic KXTGA420B 2.4 Ghz Cordless Station Unit
Panasonic KXTGA420B 2.4 Ghz Cordless Station Unit
/Panasonic
description: Need more phones? This cordless station (with corded handset) is designed for use with Panasonic's KX-TG2000B or KX-TG4000B phone systems. By utilizing 94 autoscan channels, digital spread spectrum technology, and the 2.4 GHz frequency, the KX-TGA420B provides clearer reception and greater range than older phones operating on a 900 MHz band. A 30 name-and-number caller ID memory lets you easily view a list of incoming calls, while the speed dial feature lets you store and quickly call 16 of the most frequently dialed numbers. Three-way conferencing allows you to connect with two outside calls, while four separate lines allow for multiple users or a high volume of incoming calls. With the intercom feature, you can easily communicate with other users on your system, while the integrated speakerphone and headset compatibility make hands-free communication possible. The Ni-MH battery provides up to eight hours of talk time and up to 96 hours of standby. A one-year limited warranty is also provided.
comments: "Good enough" I purchased a KX-TG2000 2-line base with two handsets and a KX-TGA420 extension for use in my turn-of-the-century three story Victorian. The phones work well everywhere I have placed them except near cell phones. They even work in the yard and carriage house. I never have to worry about placing phone lines. Programming the phones is not intuitive but the manual is clear and once you have the instructions programming is easy enough. The phone will call your pager if you get a message and you can use the extensions as an intercom. It beats running up two flights of stairs. You can have voice mail for everyone in the family if you want, and access voice mail from the KX-TGA420. The phones allow you to store the numbers of people who call, you if you have caller ID. The only complaint my family has is that you can't pick up an extension and listen in without the originator consciously conferencing the phone call or transferring it to an extension. Personally, I enjoy the privacy. The only drawback is that the extensions only work through the base unit, which means whole system goes down if your base fails. I tried and returned several expandable phone systems including ATT and GE before settling on Panasonic.
"Panasonic 4000 4 line cordless: thumbs down" I bought the KX-TG4000 as well as the extension telephone listed above as the 420B as This telephone system does not have acceptable voice quality, even with both base and extension in the same room.
In addition, this base station is not powerful enough to cover a large, pre-World War II house with hard plaster steel lath walls and ceilings in some of the rooms intervening between the base and the extensions. It was a disaster, frankly.
I have been using a Uniden 900 mhz digital cell phone in this house for 5 years, without the slightest interference, and with first class voice quality.
To rule out defectiveness of this unit, I borrowed another 2.4 ghz base and extension and placed them in the same relation as the 4000/420 combination. The results were just as bad.
I had to return the whole kit and caboodle, including 4 420's, the base unit and three cordless handsets, incurring [expensive]restocking fees from the internet supplier who sold me the system.
The one star is scarcely enough to convey my disappointment and anger about this system.
P.S., the system does not allow paging, a significant drawback. Nor does it have a one step automatic transfer of calls into voicemail.
description: If you bought yourself a financial calculator during the 1980s, chances are it was this bad boy. Nothing has changed since its introduction--it still uses Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), is easy and versatile in programming, and has a thin, sturdy casing. Certainly, there's been newer, fancier calculators introduced since, but there's something to be said for the quality of classics.
The HP 12C's functions include all the basics--such as calculating APR, NPV, and IRR--and statistics are a snap. For students new to financial calculators, this is an excellent place to start. For the most part, the manual reads like a minitextbook, walking you through sample problems and situations followed by graphs and tables demonstrating the technique--and you can even check your results. The section on creating programs does seem to be written for the technically ignorant, addressing in detail how you could possibly benefit from using programs, but it'll still help you get the job done.
In general, it's a bit slower than newer models, just like last year's computer isn't as speedy as today's new release. On the plus side, it's just 3 by 5 inches and slips easily into a pocket. The bottom is printed with a few little cheat notes for common functions, which is nice for quick reference. The HP 12C's one-year warranty and available tech-support line offer reassurance this little workhorse will continue to be an industry standard for years to come. --Jill Lightner
Pros:
Pocket size
Thorough and simple instruction manual
Competitive price
Cons:
Calculates more slowly than modern machines
comments: "The only one calculator you'll ever need" Why would you buy a 1980's calculator? Because it provides the best combination of form and function.
While other calculators have gone high-end and become curiosities of mathematics and graphics, HP's customers do not want to let go of the 12-C, despite the fact that HP has more powerful calculators at a slightly larger price. Here's why I think:
Just the right set of features. The average Joe using a financial calculator needs no more than the HP-12C provides.
Sturdy and strong. The keys have a wonderful feel.
Fits in a shirt pocket.
Very reliable. They've had two decades to iron out any bugs.
Large user base. Most financial courses will use this as the calculator of choice
Buy this calculator, if you need a financial calculator. You will not regret it -- I daresay that it will still be around when your kids need their own calculators.
"The last of a distinguished line, this one refuses to die!" This is "the calculator that wouldn't die". There were several other excellent HP calculators in this same series, including the HP-11C and HP-15C (scientific calculators) and the HP-16C (the only Computer Science calculator ever made), all of which shared RPN functionality (think of RPN as an adding machine on steroids), programmability, extremely long battery life (measured in years, not months), a sturdy case and keypad, and the perfect size, weight and ergonomics. Unfortunately, the rest of this line was discontinued by the end of the 80's in favor of fancier models. (I own an HP-11C and an HP-16C as well as an HP-12C; they're all excellent calculators. Used HP-16C models often sell for more than the original list price, they're in such demand.)
So why is the HP-12C still around, virtually unchanged from its introduction in the 80's? Because Finance people are VERY conservative, and they just kept buying the 12C because that's what their mentors used, that's what classes were teaching with, and that's where the most help and information is available. They simply ignored newer, fancier models of financial calculators because the 12C already worked so well that nobody needed or wanted anything better! Sure, they're imported these days instead of being made in the USA as the original units were, but the design is unchanged. The packaging has changed, but the user manual has not.
This calculator is a classic, destined to remain with us for many years...
"A workhorse calculator at a great price. Anyone can use it." Calculators may seem a bit "dated" in this age of Palm Pilots and PC's, but when you have to do a lot of calculations and you don't have a spreadsheet on a laptop handy, a good calculator is invaluable.
If you calculate mortgages, compound interest, amortization or any of the common functions in finance on a regular basis, you can't go wrong with this classic calculator, long a standard of the industry. The 120 built-in functions are easy to use and well explained by the manual. Don't see a function you need? You can enter your own mathematical function, too.
If you DON'T do financial calculations regularly, but are in school for anything but science, this is also a great choice. You can even learn a lot about financial calculations just from the manual. (For science students and scientists, HP makes a scientific version calculator with statistical functions instead of financial ones.)
If you are a regular person looking for a calculator, I REALLY recommend this one--we all borrow money (car loans, house mortgages) now and then. And RPN, Reverse Polish Notation is SO logical and easy to use once you practice. (Simply put, to add two plus two = four, you enter 2 +, 2+ = and the answer is there. VERY fast for long calculations, like balancing a checkbook.)
I find that the horizontal design (wider than long) is extremely comfortable to hold. And the 12C is very rugged. I used to know a guy from HP who was a rep for the calculator division. He'd demo them by slamming the HP12C against the wall, and then daring the rep from the Big Lone Star State Instruments firm to do the same with theirs. No contest.
Griffin Technology RadioShark AM/FM Desktop Radio with Time-Shift Recording
Griffin Technology RadioShark AM/FM Desktop Radio with Time-Shift Recording
/Griffin Technology
description: There's a lot to like about Internet radio, but sometimes you just want to catch the local NPR broadcast or listen to the ballgame without searching for a streaming audio feed. Griffin satisfies this urge with its RadioShark, an AM/FM desktop radio that plugs into your computer's USB port to broadcast the full spectrum of local radio. More impressively, the device also acts as a radio version of a digital video recorder, employing a technology called Time-Shift Recording to pause and rewind live radio (think TiVo). Time-Shift Recording lets a user pause a live interview, leave the desk for 15 minutes, and then return without missing a second of conversation. In addition, the RadioShark records radio in real time with the push of a button or records favorite programs via the VCR-like scheduling window. Griffin touts the device as a great way to take control of how and when you listen to the radio. And we agree for the most part, but with a major caveat.
The software interface includes frequency and volume sliders, along with band, seek, and record buttons.
Design and Setup The slick-looking RadioShark is shaped like (surprise!) a shark fin, with a white plastic exterior that looks perfectly at home amidst a desktop full of Apple peripherals, including the ubiquitous iPod. This makes sense given Griffin's reputation as a manufacturer of Apple accessories. Installation is quick and easy thanks to the included CD-ROM, which comes with software installers for both Mac and PC. Users will need to be running OS X 10.2.8 or higher or Windows XP to operate the software, however. Once it's up and running, users can easily reposition the device to improve radio reception and recording quality, though we didn't have any problem picking up the signals in our notoriously reception-poor region. Listeners can also add an external antenna to the rear jack should reception prove spotty.
Features and Performance Listening to the radio with the RadioShark is as simple as flipping a switch. The basic yet intuitive software interface includes frequency and volume sliders, along with band, seek, and record buttons. It takes but a fraction of a second to change stations, and the signal responds immediately. The audio quality isn't terrific, but it's just fine given the circumstances (FM radio through computer speakers). Recording is also quite easy, whether it's for five seconds or five hours. Once you turn it off, the files save conveniently as either AIFF or AAC files (Mac) or WAV files (PC) in your computer's designated music directory, where you can listen to them later or export them to other applications. Alternately, Mac users can choose to import their recordings directly into iTunes for added convenience. This is particularly cool for iPod users, who can record songs or programs from the RadioShark and then listen to them later while on the move.
The Time-Shift feature, which offers a continuous 30-minute recording loop, is also quite convenient. Should you pause or rewind a segment, you can easily rejoin the live broadcast by clicking the fast forward button. The RadioShark also continues to record the live broadcast while you're checking out the archived footage, ensuring that you don't miss a second. And should you want to permanently record a Time-Shifted song or program, you can just hit record and it's done. A couple of other convenient features include an equalizer with several preset settings and an easy-to-follow scheduling window for upcoming recordings. Listeners can even set the RadioShark to record hourly, daily, or weekly programs.
Unfortunately, thanks to a few serious hiccups, these scheduled recordings may never come to pass. Specifically, if you let your computer drift off to sleep, the RadioShark responds by disconnecting from the software. The only way to sync it back up is to unplug the Shark and start again, but in the process, listeners lose all their scheduling information. This problem appears persistent in both Macs and PCs, though Griffin's web site says Windows users shouldn't experience the problem. Griffin recommends disabling the sleep preference as a solution, but that's inconvenient for a number of reasons. As an alternative, users can reconnect the device each time it fizzles, but that's also a pain and makes the scheduling window virtually obsolete. Until Griffin releases an update, the sleep issue will remain a major drawback.
We also experienced a few skips while using the Time-Shift feature. These weren't standard static interruptions, but sounded more like sporadic CD skips--sometimes several to a song. This wouldn't be a big deal when listening to conversational radio such as NPR, but if you're trying to record music, it could be a real drag.
But it's the sleep issue that really prevents us from giving the RadioShark an enthusiastic recommendation. Should the recording problems steer listeners away from the RadioShark? Not necessarily, unless scheduled recording is the main reason you're drawn to the machine. The radio and Time-Shift features are still pretty cool, and the RadioShark offers one of the easiest ways to record live radio into digital formats. But it does put a damper on an otherwise great product. --Rivers Janssen
Pros
Plays local AM and FM stations through your computer
Records live radio and syncs recordings to iTunes and iPod
TiVo-like Time-Shift Recording lets listeners pause or rewind live broadcast
description: This affordable pack of consumables contains everything you need to get started with your Epson PictureMate printer. Designed to provide truly borderless photos, each sheet of paper is free of perforations and measures 4 by 6 inches.
Original print (left), then a spill-and-wipe test on leading glossy and semi-gloss papers (two middle) and on PictureMate (right)
The glossy finish provides a look and feel just like professionally printed photos. The six-color ink cartridge provides rich depth of tone along with resistance to water, fading, and annoying smudges.
The longevity is outstanding. According to Epson, when you store your photos in archival pages, you can expect them to retain their shading for up to 200 years, or up to 100 years when displayed under glass indoors. Each cartridge yields approximately 100 photos; the exact amount may vary. The pack is backed by a satisfaction guarantee provided by Epson.
What's in the Box 100 4-by-6-inch glossy photo sheets and one six-color ink cartridge
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Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional Calculator
Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional Calculator
/Texas Instruments
description: Based on the enormously popular (well, in financial circles) BA II Plus Advanced Financial Calculator, the BA II Plus Professional adds functions for Net Future Value (NFV), Modified Internal Rate of Return (MIRR), Modified Duration, Payback, and Discount Payback. Aesthetic touch-ups include a brushed metal exterior, easier to read display, a more comfortable "firm-touch" keypad, and no-slide rubber feet.
Though it takes a little effort to master the collection of financial worksheets available on the BA II Plus Professional, you'll be glad you invested the time and money in this fine financial calculator. It operates in standard calculator and worksheet modes. The standard mode lets you perform common math as well as operations involving the time value of money--that is, applications such as mortgages or annuities in which payments are equal and evenly spaced. You can also perform trigonometric functions in standard mode.
The more hard-core worksheet mode includes tables for amortization, bond, depreciation, and compound interest. If you're not familiar with such calculations, the very helpful user's manual will guide you through the process. All previous worksheet values are stored in memory, so you don't have to retype all the bond maturity or cash flow analysis figures.
The average user who wants to calculate a basic loan payment will be more comfortable working in the standard calculator mode. You can learn to calculate basic interest and payment periods within minutes, and more advanced features are available for those who require heavy-duty financial computing.
What's in the Box: BA II Plus Professional, carrying case, user's guide, lithium battery, warranty information
description: The TN570 from Brother International is a laser toner cartridge designed to work with Brother DCP8040, HL5140, HL5150D, HL5150DLT, HL5170DN, MFC8220, MFC8440, MFC8840D, and MFC8840DN printers and multi-functions. This monochrome black replacement cartridge delivers a yield of up to 6,700 pages at 5% coverage and is a genuine Brother product, so you know it will work properly with your printer. The TN570 also comes backed with a 30-day return warranty.