Technology Gadgets

by Jamie McAfee & Liz Levy

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As summer swings into high gear, thoughts turn to weekend outings, backyard-barbecues, and frolics on the beach. It’s time to look for technology gadgets that make work more simple and convenient. From the slickest flat panel monitors to the best priced multimedia notebooks, these items will keep you cool whether you’re stuck in the office, or working on the road.

Three-in-One

TV, video, and computer viewing on one sleek flat panel display makes work more entertaining. The Samsung SyncMaster 170Mp and 150Mp support input from most video devices, including VCRs, DVD players, and camcorders. The picture-in-picture function allows for viewing of two sources at once. The 15-inch (150Mp) has a maximum resolution of 1024 by 768dpi, and the 17-inch (170Mp) has a maximum resolution of 1280 by 1024dpi. The monitor’s stand turns into a handle for moving around an office or conference room.

Samsung Electronics; 800-726-7864; www.samsungelectronics.com; $1,287 for the 150Mp; $2,620 for the 170Mp

Mix and Match

Mobile workers are always forced to adapt when they travel, never knowing what kinds of access will be available. Xircom offers notebook users more connection flexibility with the RealPort2 Integrated PC card family. The family of PC cards allows users to mix and match different connections with different cards that snap together. Combine 56Kbps modem, Ethernet, ISDN, DSL, or wireless (GSM, PDC) connections.

Xircom; 800-438-4526; www.xircom.com; Prices range from $153 to $359

Top Dog

Portable laptop work stations come in all forms. But the Lapdog from Shaun Jackson Design turns your carrying case into a workstation. The padded case provides protection as well as grips for non-slipping areas. Two side panels are designed for PDAs, cell phones, and any other items needed. The Doggie Bags can be added to the Lapdog for extra storage. Hang the Doggie Bags for a vertical organizer.

Shaun Jackson Design Inc.; 888-662-4300; www.sjdesign.com; $139.95 for Lapdog; $79.95 for Doggie Bags

Multimedia Punch

Notebook users who need multimedia performance when they’re on the road should take a look at the affordable NP2650 from Micro Express. Weighing in at 7.15 pounds, this well-rounded notebook runs Windows 98 and comes complete with a 15-inch TFT active matrix screen, a 12GB hard drive, and 128MB of RAM. The NP2650 also boasts a 6X-DVD drive and 64-bit sound that pumps out of dual built-in stereo speakers.

Micro Express; 800-989-9900; www.microexpress.net; $2,399

Creative Writing

Those teeny stylus pens can sometimes cramp your writing style. The Fingertip Stylus from Fellowes may be just the thing to improve your penmanship. The stainless surgical steel tip is designed to fit all finger sizes and supports all touch-sensitive, handheld screens.

Fellowes; 800-945-4545; www.fellowes.com; $19.99