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I've seen and had a lot of laptop/notebook bags in my time working as an IT professional, but the Booqbag range are something else. I stumbled across BooqBag's website ( www.booqbags.com) earlier this year, as I searched the net for some worthy notebook bags to add to our catalogue. As soon as I saw it, I immediately ear-marked the Booq Boa XM Laptop Back Pack as my next bag! Great news...I got mine today and let me tell you first-hand, there is no other notebook backpack out there that packs away a 15 inch laptop like the Booq Boa! Simply marvellous! 
It's slim design means that you can carry your laptop around everywhere with you without attracting too much attention - the Booq Boa is definitely replacing my Fila back pack that I lugged around in shopping centres in California last year! Well done Booq!
Booq Boa.XM Product Description
The Booq Boa.XM is the visually elegant yet incredibly tough alternative for mid-size laptops. Booq's Boa.XM protects its precious cargo in style. An evolution in ergonomic form, Boa's shoulder strap design is a derivative from the human form, creating an incredibly comfortable fit. Crafted from some of the highest quality 1680D ballistic and seatbelt nylons as well as ripstop fabrics, Boa.XM's custom-molded back structure illustrates the fusion of tough protection and sleek comfort that makes this bag so quietly outstanding. 
Booq Boa.XM Specifications:Fits Laptops: 14", 15" or 15.4" laptop External Dimensions: 16.5 x 12.0 x 4.0" Inches Laptop Compartment Dimensions: 14.5 x 11.0 x 1.8" Inches Booq Boa.XM Features & Benefits: - ideal backpack for the professional - various accessory pockets for disks, books, ipod, cell phone & other accessories - stores items of many shapes and sizes - high-density polyurethane foam back padding for extra rigidity, comfort and optimised for breathability - extremely comfortable, contoured shoulder strap design for ideal load distribution - entirely separate zippered & padded laptop compartment lined with non-scratch fabric - built from tough 1680D ballistic nylon and equipped with the toughest nylon straps and webbing - adjustable, removable waist strap with padded hip flaps which allows for secure fit; sternum strap for extra comfort Order your Booq Boa.XM 15" Laptop BackPack here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
The PowerSmart Rapid Battery Charger package is unquestionably one of the best value gadgets that we have in our catalogue. After an exhaustive two years of searching the ends of the earth for a quality charger to include in our range, we've found this beauty and hit the jackpot! The only thing missing from this PowerSmart Battery Charger Package are some steak knives! PowerSmart Battery Charger Package Includes:In case you haven't read the product information for the PowerSmart Rapid Battery Charger, it comes with: 
- PowerSmart Rapid Battery Charger with LCD Display
- 4 x Rechargeable AA 2400mAh NiMH batteries
- Car/Vehicle Charger/Adapter
- AC Power Adapter
- Battery case for four AAA batteries
All for a bargain-basement price!
Features of the PowerSmart Battery Charger:
- 1-2 hour quick battery charge time (depending on battery type)
- LCD charge display for each battery
- Charges NiMH and NiCad Batteries (AA & AAA)
- Microprocessor-controlled Negative Delta V with overcharge protection
- Built-in protection from current or voltage surge
- Built-in protection from overheating of battery
- Detection of defective batteries
I have just used the PowerSmart Battery Charger to power-up the four AA batteries that were bundled with it. The LCD display is not a gimmick - it indicates the charge levels of each battery and helps you to determine if a battery is faulty. With the help of this LCD screen, I'll also no longer make the mistake of charging batteries that are already charged! (admit it, you've done it too!)
Charging four 2400mAh AA batteries took approximately 2 hours.
I like the car adapter concept - there have been many times where I wished I brought extra batteries, but now it'll just be a matter of plugging the charger into my cigarette lighter to always have power. Fabulous!
Five stars for this gadget! Get your own PowerSmart Rapid Battery Charger Package here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
A couple of months ago, I got an email from a customer telling me to check out the LaserPods. Did a search on Google and found the LaserPod website but I didn't see what all the fuss was about... until LaserPod Australia sent me one last week to sample. Ok I'll admit it - they're cool! My first impression: "Its sea-monkeys gone techno!" I would have a LaserPod over those antiquated lava-lamps anyday! What is the LaserPod?Using the latest in laser, LED (light emitting diodes) and crystal optics, Laserpod brings science and nature together to create ever-changing organic light forms of profound beauty. Laserpod is one of the most innovative lighting products since the lavalamp of the sixties, simple in principal, Laserpod actually uses super advanced technology to generate the purest light known to man. 
It is the patented invention of the innovative UK light artist Chris Levine, whose varied and ground breaking work in light has ranged from light sculptures for the band Massive Attack and some of the most leading edge fashion designers, to an historic hologram portrait of the Queen of England. His work is about the experience of seeing and the living power of light, an ethos that is distilled into Laserpod.
Laserpod uses three electronic lasers and three blue and purple LED's, chosen so that the combination of their wavelengths work as a background to the red laser to give a super sensory experience.
This intense light energy is projected through a crystal and the output of this wondrous device can be described as awe inspiring!
With the diffusers on top of the alloy cylinder, as supplied in the package, the effects are contained and Laserpod becomes a soothing ambient lamp.
The visual images start when the diffusers are removed-the light forms will radiate and project across an entire room and over great distances.
You can interact with Laserpod by placing anything optical on top of the unit, glass, crystal or clear plastics will all produce the most profoundly beautiful effects.
For the best Laserpod experience, the device should be activated in complete darkness when the more meditative and organic beams will be seen- these are extraordinary and are quite unique to Laserpod.
Laserpod is portable and can function for up to 8 hours on three AA batteries or run directly from mains on the powerpack.
Operating the LaserPod
Setting up the LaserPod took around 30 seconds. Just picked which diffuser I wanted to try out, plugged in the AC plug and voila, I was watching laser beams dancing before my eyes. By pressing the power switch, you get the options of either having a blue/aurora lights background or red haze background. I personally like the blue. Pressing it a third time will result in the LaserPod turning off. It's that easy! Laserpod Reviews:
-> I4U LaserPod Review - Nov 2004
-> The Gadgeteer LaserPod Review - Dec 2004
-> Engadget LaserPod Review - Nov 2004
Laserpod package contains:
1 x Aluminium Laserpod Projector Lamp Unit
1 x Electroplated Tall Domed Diffuser
1 x Electroplated Small Domed Diffuser
1 x Crystal (set into base unit)
1 x Ridged Glass Refractor Lens
1 x DC Adaptor
3 x AA Alkaline Battery Compartment
1 x Laserpod Book of Light
1 x Warnings + Instructions Leaflet
Order your LaserPod here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
As most of you know, every second month we go through the gadget reviews and pick the best one written by our customers. The winner receives a $100 Mr.Gadget Voucher! These entries are judged on the following criterion: - usefulness to other customers - effort in writing the review - evidence of thorough testing of gadget - honest point of view - readability 
I read all reviews that came in between Dec 29th and Feb 29th and they were all great, but the one I chose was Kieran O'Brien's Gadget Review on the Sandisk Cruzer Micro MP3 Companion. It was a thorough review and I believe would help prospective buyers in their choice of this product. Here's the Sandisk Cruzer Micro MP3 Companion Gaget Review by Kieran:
Saturday, 26th February, 2005
As usual, Sandisk have really delivered with this one. A neat little package, the MP3 Companion comes complete with a removable belt clip which is very useful; a backlit display includes all the useful information, such as album #, track #, track name and play mode. The very intuitive menu is both simple and functional, made easy to use by a selector switch on the side of the device, situated beside the volume control. Options on the menu include custom and preset equalizer settings, a control lock, and various playmodes including several shuffle and repeat modes. Lastly, but most importantly for some, this unit delivers crystal clear, high quality sound, whether using the provided earphones, which are very comfortable, or any other earphones/headphones you might wish to use. My only complaint is that if you like to listen to your music at a volume that will make your ears bleed (as I do), then you're out of luck, as the volume is limited so as not to cause damage to your hearing. In all, this unit is affordable, convenient, sturdy, easy to use and delivers excellent playback quality. Well done Kieran, an email has just been sent to you with detail on how to claim your $100 Gadget Voucher! Happy Shopping![Click here to read other Gadget Reviews]
Easter - Its real meaning
As a Christian, I am saddened by how the world has forgotten the true meaning of Easter. Instead of being a time of rememberence and celebration of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the cross, our minds are filled with thoughts of chocolate Easter eggs, Easter sales and what to do on the garden over the long weekend. His life, death and resurrection were to give you more than the aforementioned, so much more!
This Easter I will remember the hope that God gave through Jesus. The hope that because Christ died, I now live...
Here's a great article on the Easter Story by Eva Marie Everson. Just also found this on the Jesus Instistute Website : The Meaning of Easter. If you're interested in learning what Easter is really all about check it out!
"Jesus said I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25-26
Many of my fellow XDA owners and I have been anticipating the arrival of the ThinkOutside's Stowaway Bluetooth Keyboard for a couple of months. We've read plaudits from all over the web which has heightened our need to try one of these bluetooth gadgets out for ourselves! I've personally owned two ThinkOutside Stowaway Keyboards, neither being bluetooth though - Stowaway Foldable Keyboard for the Palm Tungsten T and most recently for my O2 XDA II PocketPC. Both were superb in their design and function and I strongly believe that ThinkOutside's Stowaway Bluetooth Keyboard will not be any different! I'll be able to tell you for sure around this time next week. 
Awards and Reviews on the ThinkOutside Stowaway Bluetooth Keyboard:
Ok don't take my word about how excellent this gadget is! Check out some the following links that will take you to reviews and awards on this bluetooth keyboard: - PocketPC Magazine Editor's Choice, March 2005 : Stowaway Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard Award Link- Forbes.com Review on the Stowaway Bluetooth KeyboardStowaway Bluetooth Keyboard works with most Bluetooth Devices!Albeit obvious, one of best new features I like about this new Stowaway Keyboard is the fact that it's bluetooth. My other keyboards were limited to the devices that they were designed for and had to be physically connected, however the Stowaway Bluetooth Keyboard can be used with practically any Bluetooth enabled device! If only I had this when I had my Toshiba M200 Tablet :( Oh well, I know it will make a great partner for my O2 XDA IIs! Key Features of the Stowaway Bluetooth Foldable Keyboard:- Write email and notes easily - Includes carrying case & detachable PDA / phone stand - Sleek, award winning design - 100% full size keyboard for touch-typing - Truly universal : works with almost all Bluetooth enabled device - Hassle free - Bluetooth technology removes the need for wires - Lightweight design; weighs less than 6 oz. - User programmable shortcut and command keys for fast access to other applications - Rugged polycarbonate construction for years of use - Rubber grip pads prevent keyboard from slipping while typing Get your Think Outside Bluetooth Stowaway Keyboard here at Mr.Gadget Australia![will be available from the 31st March, 2005]
Houston, our first batch of Jabra BT800 Bluetooth Headsets...have landed!! I've got mine charging as I type. After the great experience I had with it's predecessor the Jabra BT250/FS258, I can't wait to try this bluetooth gadget out. It's a little heavier than the Sharktooth Bluetooth Headset (19g vs 26g) that I've been testing over the last week but with all the added features such as vibrating call alert, 5 different inbuilt ringtones and Bluetooth 1.2 compliance, it should be worth it. I'll write a review in a couple days to let you know how it goes!
Order your Jabra BT800 Bluetooth Headset here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
One of our gadgeteers/customers runs Frick Finance, a specialist in property finance in Queensland. Frick Finance offers hundreds of loans from the major banks and other lenders, as well as from Frick Finance. They promise to provide friendly service every step of the way. Best Property Finance Deal for YouFrick Finance use their sophisticated "Find the Best Rate" software and their expertise, to find the best loan to suit your needs. They'll even help you fill in the right forms and be there for you up until settlement! So if you're in Queensland and looking for property finance, look no further than Frick Finance. Click here to visit their website and obtain their contact details.
We use USB flash drives on a daily basis here at Mr.Gadget and the thought of someone accidently or deliberately finding one of our drives and exploiting our business data, sends my head into a spin. Sandisk have recognised this need for more secure means of storing data on portable devices, with the launch of it's Sandisk Cruzer Profile USB Flash Drive.
SanDisk's Cruzer Profile is a unique, biometric USB flash drive that provides the ultimate in portable data security. This high-secure product stores all your data and passwords, accessible only with the swipe of your fingerprint. Just plug in the drive, swipe your finger, and you can log-on to any of your stored protected areas in a snap. You can use any host PC with your Profile without having to install any cumbersome software or leave any trace on that PC.
Features of the Sandisk Cruzer Profile USB Flash Drive:
- Capacity: 512MB and 1.0GB
- Distinctive ergonomic design for easy access and swiping
- Write speed (minimum) = 5.0MB/Sec
- Read speed (minimum) = 8.0MB/Sec
- Sensor response to go/no state = 1 sec delay or less
- Authentication process <3> As far as I know, these biometric beauties have not hit our fair shores yet, but I don't see them being more than a couple of months away. We'll keep you posted on availability here!
We now have stock of Sony Ericsson K700i Mobile Phones bundled with free featured packed Sony Ericsson HBH-600 Akono Bluetooth headsets! The HBH-600 Akono bluetooth headsets normally retail for around $150 all by themselves! Sony Ericsson K700i Product Description
The K700i has been extremely popular due to its 'dual front' design where one side looks like a phone, with its 16-bit, 176-by-220 pixel TFT display, mini-joystick and keypad;the other side looks like a digital camera with its whopping (for a phonecam) 4x digital zoom lens. This mobile heralds a new era in mobile phone technology. Features of the Sony Ericsson K700i Mobile Phone:
- Colour display (65,536 colours, 176 x 220 pixels)
- Integrated VGA camera with video recorder (including sound)
- Bluetooth, infrared and cable (USB & RS232) connectivity
- Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) - send pictures and sound like text messages
- Downloadable 40-voice polyphonic & mono ringtones, plus ringtone editor (MusicDJ)
- Downloadable Java games
- FM radio and MP3 player
- WAP 2.0 (GPRS), email
- High Speed Data (HSCSD - up to 28.8 kbps)
- Speed dialling & voice dialling
- Joystick, camera button, navigation key, menu shortcuts
- Predictive text (T9)
- Mobile chat
- Voice memo / recorder
- Speaker phone
- Picture phone book
- Wallpaper, screensaver and themes - all downloadable
- Calculator, calendar, alarm, stopwatch
- Sync ML
- Memory: 41 Mbytes
- Size: 99 x 47 x 20 mm
- Weight: 93g
- Battery standby: 300 hours
- Battery talktime: 8 hours
- Vibration alert
- Sleep mode
- Tri band Reviews on the Sony Ericsson K700i:
[Mobile Phones UK review on the Sony Ericsson K700i]
[CNET.com review on the Sony Ericsoon K700i] 
Akono HBH-600 Bluetooth Headset:
Much too can be said of the Sony Ericsson Akono HBH-600 bluetooth headset. Wireless, light and comfortable, the Akono Headset HBH-600 is the perfect Bluetooth headset for people on the go. The ear loop is flexible enough to fit most ears and sturdy enough to make the headset stay in place even when you're in motion.
[Click here to try out the Sony Ericsson's K700i camera simulator online]
Get your Sony Ericsson K700i Mobile Phone/Akono HBH-600 Bluetooth bundle here at Mr.Gadget Australia while stocks last!
And I thought the Innopocket metal/aluminium cases for the O2 XDA IIs / iMate PDA2K were cool...check out the Innopocket O2 XDA IIs / iMate PDA2K Magnesium Metal Case! The magnesium case will definitely suit those people who bought the O2 XDA IIs because it was black; sadly this played a small factor in my personal purchase. Now we can have our cake and eat it too! :) Besides the colour, why would one choose a magnesium case?Innopocket provide some good reasons:
Rugged
Magnesium is 20X stronger than the traditionally used ABS plastic.
LightMagnesium is 37% lighter than Aluminum.
Subtle
Magnesium's finish is a better match to your device.Magnum XDA IIs case comes with internal SD card holder and the patented removable belt clip and post system. All cases have double-hinged covers that fold completely out of way. Features of the Innopocket O2 XDA IIs Magnesium Metal Case: - Cut-outs for IR port, record button, hotsync port, microphone and speaker. - Easy access to stylus, earphone jack, power button and sd slot. You'll be able to purchase your Innopocket O2 XDA IIs / iMate PDA2K Magnesium Case from Mr.Gadget Australia in a couple of weeks time.
If you want to port around 40GB of storage without lugging around your bulky laptop or PC, check out our USB 2.0 External 2.5" HDD Metal Enclosures featuring blazing fast Samsung SpinPoint hard drives!
These 2.5" external HDDs are so small that they fit into the palm of your hand. They also come with a convenient vinyl pouch and USB cable. Simply plug it into a free USB port and as long as you're running Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/MAC OS 9.0 or above, you'll be able to transfer data to and fro right away! No batteries required.
Key features of the USB 2.0 HDD 2.5" Metal Enclosure:
- USB 2.0 to IDE 2.5" Aluminum HDD case.
- Screw less design for quick and easy installation
- Power Supply : Bus Power design
- Supports up to UDMA/100
- No Max Hard Drive RPM
- Transfer rate available for USB2.0 480Mbps
- Portable for your 2.5"HDD.
- Support plug and Play. Samsung SpinPoint 40GB UATA100 2.5IN 8MB 5400RPM HDD
- Ultra ATA - 100
- FDB(Fluid Dynamic Bearing) Motor
- Load/Unload Technology
- GMR Head Technology with Wireless Suspension Design
- SilentSeek
- Silentec Hybrid Latch Technology
- Simply the best in HDD technology! System and other requirements:
- Hard drive height need to be equal to or less than 9.5mm
- Support USB 1.1/2.0
- Supports Windows98Se/Me, Windows 2000/XP/Mac os 9.0 (or above)
Product dimensions and warranty information:
- Dimensions: 120(W) x 72(H) x 10(D) mm
- Standard warranty: 1 year
USB 2.0 External HDD 2.5" Metal Enclosure Package includes:
- USB 2.0 to IDE 2.5" Aluminum HDD case.
- 40GB Samsung SpinPoint 5400RPM 8M buffer
- USB cable
- Carrying case
- Instruction manual
- Driver on floppy disk Get your USB 2.0 External HDD 2.5" Metal Enclosure here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
I only found out recently that in November last year, the Bluetooth SIG (Special Interest Group) announced Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.0 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate). This is good news for us bluetoothers as it means faster data transfer, better battery life and easier multilinking of bluetooth devices!
[Click here to see the full Bluetooth 2.0 Press Release here]
Features of Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.0 + EDR are:
- 3 times faster transmission speed (up to 10 times in certain cases)
- Lower power consumption through reduced duty cycle
- Simplification of multi-link scenarios due to more available bandwidth
- Backwards compatible to earlier versions
- Further improved BER (Bit Error Rate) performance
Although we don't have any Bluetooth 2.0 devices yet, we do have a good representation of Bluetooth 1.0/1.2 gadgets! Check out our Bluetooth range here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Ok I'm getting impatient...three weeks ago I got CoPilot 4.5 from Travroute to sample before the imminent release of CoPilot Live Version 5.0 and I must say I was impressed. Previous to this, I had Navman's 4410 installed on my O2 XDA II PocketPC and I thought that was good, but CoPilot's ability to read out street names and provide more timely information put CoPilot infront in my books. The only edge Navman had over CoPilot were the 3D maps, but this disadvantage is gone with CoPilot Version 5. Not only does Co-Pilot Live 5 have 3D maps but it also features Safety/Speed Camera alerts, latest version of Sensis maps, night mode, waypoints and ability to communicate to home PC! I'm ready for my upgrade! Apparently existing users can upgrade via the Travroute website (www.travroute.com.au), only thing is, I can't find my product key!!! :( Hope to find this today...
CoPilot Live 5 Product Description
We know that travelling by road can be frustrating for anyone. Not anymore. Detours, distractions and delays? CoPilot Live will handle those safely and efficiently, leaving you to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.
Points-of-Interest tailored to the way you live and work...a safe and customizable interface? detailed speech...wireless connectivity. All of this brought together in a GPS navigation system that tells you what you need to know, when you want to know it.
Screen Shots from the new CoPilot Live Version 5.0 GPS:
New Features with CoPilot Live Version 5 - 3D Map Display which provides users with a realistic view of the road ahead.
- Safety Camera Feature* which provides an alert as you approach a fixed speed camera or red light camera.
- Latest version Sensis 12 data Mapping Data covering over 500 country towns! and a very comprehensive Points of Interest database
- Step by Step Address Entry with type Ahead which makes entering and searching for your destination a lot easier then before
- Night Mode reduces the glare and eye strain to improve night time safety.
- Customizable Display lets you decide which pieces of navigation information are displayed on CoPilot Live's screen. You can choose among current Road, Crossroad, Current Time, Speed, Elevation or Nearest Town.
- Lane Change Warnings alert you to upcoming left exits, ensuring that you have plenty of time to safely get to the proper side of the highway.
- Side of Street Notification tells you which side of the street your destination is on, making it easier to locate the right building when you arrive.
- Waypoints let you tailor your route preferences and allow you to pass through a particular area on the way to your final destination.
- POI Import capability allows you to import and manage custom Points-of-Interest. Build your own POI database from personal contacts, popular destinations, or third-party lists.
- Regionalized POIs mean you can download only the Points-of-Interest that are within your chosen map area, saving you space while giving you access to more than 3 millions POIs across the country.
- Routing Options have been expanded to include Auto Quickest, Auto Shortest, RV Quickest and RV Shortest.
- Communication between vehicle and home or office, with two-way messaging, vehicle location and itinerary updates.*
Get CoPilot Live 5 GPS for PocketPC at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Have you ever wanted to own a remote control plane but thought that it was too expensive? As a boy, I always dreamed of owning my a remote control plane...last year I got one! The great thing was I didn't have to lash out hundreds and hundreds of dollars, nor did I spend countless hours having to glue one together. I spent a total of $249 + shipping for a HobbyZone Aerobird Extreme Remote Control Plane which came with everything I needed to fly, e.g. remote control, plane and even batteries! I was out in the paddock flying within 1-2 hours (after the battery had charged). It was so good that we have now decided to sell it ourselves!
Features of the HobbyZone Aerobird Extreme Remote Control Plane:
- Advanced, fully proportional, single-stick controller with slide throttle and X-Port accessory activation button
- High-performance rechargeable Ni-Cd battery pack
- Variable rate (500mAh to 1.8A) DC peak detection charger w/automobile plug and alligator clip adaptor for alternate 12V DC power source
- Powerful 540 meter for outstanding aerobatic and climb performance
- The Aerobird Xtreme's superb power and agility make it ideal for aerial combat using the Sonic Combat Module (sold separately)
- Large control surfaces for extreme flight maneuvers like loops and stall turns
- "Flying the Aerobird Extreme" video CD with assembly instructions and flying tips
- Specially designed one-piece wing with a carbon fiber spar
measures 76 x 35 in
Mr.Gadget's Tips for flying the HobbyZone AeroBird Extreme:
1. Do not fly in windy conditions: My impatience led me to fly in windy conditions which brought down the plane in a hurry.
2. Read the instructions: This will save you a lot of grief later on. If only I had did this properly when I first got mine!
3. Make sure the antenna on the transmitter is fully extended before flying: I forgot to do this once and almost lost my plane over the freeway! Thank God it's got an automatic cutoff if it exceeds transmission range! :)
4. Read the instructions: I think you get my drift.
Other cool things you can do with your HobbyZone Aerobird Extreme is add to the X-port which allows you to drop parachutes, ribbon bombs and combat with other Aerobird Extremes. Once you've mastered the standard flying mode, you can switch the transmission to Pro-Mode for extreme V-tail maneuverability that's perfect for loops, whip stalls and chandelles! I'm doing loops quite easily now! :)
[Click here for the HobbyZone Aerobird Extreme Demo Video] Thank you to Mike and Brenton at ModelFlight for processing my orders so efficiently! Check out their other flying gadgets while your there!
Order your HobbyZone Aerobird Extreme Radio Control Plane at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Bowling at AMF Sunshine on Labour Day
Spent this Labour Day with family and friends at Sunshine's AMF Bowling Centre here in Victoria. It was my first time to bowl in around a year but I was happy with my score of 166. Not bad for a straight-baller huh? 
I reckon I could've done better if it weren't for my sprained ankle... :)
Labour Day today : Office Closed
Hi All, This is just a short post to let you know that our office will be closed this Monday 14th March, 2005 to celebrate Labour Day :) As per always, our website is open 24 x 7 to take orders. We will be back on board to quickly process orders and return messages on Tuesday 15th March. Here's an interesting link I found in the Wikipedia on what Labour Day is all about...
Microsoft Voice Command transforms your Pocket PC into your own virtual personal assistant, letting you use your voice to look up contacts and place phone calls, get calendar information, play and control your music, and get key device status and information. Voice Command makes it easier and more convenient than ever to take your digital lifestyle with you wherever you go. The state-of-the-art speech technology means you will never have to pre-record important phone numbers or use difficult commands to access the information you need. Simply select one of the many commands that is most natural to you and let Voice Command do the rest. Note: The best thing about Voice Command is that it requires NO voice training! :) Just talk and go!I purchased Microsoft Voice Command US Version 1.0 around early 2004 and enjoyed, amongst other things, being able to bring up and call contacts in my address book with only the touch of one button and speech. At this point in time, I was so caught up in using it that I forgot to make a backup. So I was left in the lurch after a hard-reset. In desperation, I logged back into Handango and tried to purchase another copy however was this time the purchase was refused because I was not an American customer?! I think was due to all the rumours and complaints that MS VoiceCommand US Version 1.0 was not suited to non-U.S. accents. So there I was stranded; without voice control on my O2 XDA IIs, having to do pocketPC tasks 90s-style. Good news this week! On Mtekk ( www.mtekk.com.au - technology forum), someone posted that there was now an updated version of MS Voice Command which was available to customers outside the U.S.! Within a couple of minutes, I had downloaded MS Voice Command UK Version 1.5 and began testing out the new features. This is the best in its class! [Try out the Microsoft Voice Command Demo here]Features of MS Voice Command 1.5 UK Version:Voice-Controlled Hands-Free Phone:
- View contacts with a single voice command. - Place phone calls by name with a Phone Edition. ("Call Jon Sulte") - Place phone calls by number with a Phone Edition ("Dial 0412 430 289") - Callback and Redial the last caller with a Phone Edition. - Incoming calls are announced by name or number. - Missed calls are announced by name or number with a single command. Voice-Controlled Calendar Lookup:
- View your calendar with a single voice command. - Have the subject, time, and location of upcoming appointments read to you. - Appointment reminders will read the details of your appointment aloud so you do not have to look at your screen to find out what is coming up. Voice-Controlled Media Player:
- Use your voice to select the music you want from your collection by album, artist, or genre. - Choose to control your music with your voice or use the large button interface just like radio buttons on your car stereo. (portrait display size 320x240) - If you are listening to new or unfamiliar music you can ask "What song is this?" and the name of the song and artist will be read to you. Voice-Controlled Utilities:- Start any program in the Start menu or programs folder, such as Inbox, Calculator or Solitaire. - Check signal strength, battery level, time, and day by voice. - Low battery level alert by voice. Get Microsoft's Voice Command at Handango and experience a new-level with your PocketPC!
I found it quite strange that the O2 XDA II Mini did not come with a cradle especially since the O2 XDA II and the IIs had them. Having just a USB synch 'n' charge cable may be fine when you're on the road, but when you're back at the office it helps being able to see what's on your screen while it's charging. So in seeing a need, we've now acquired ourselves a fresh batch of aftermarket O2 XDA Mini Desktop Charge Cradles! 
Now you can can synchronise and charge your O2 Mini while having it upright for you and the world to admire! Having a cradle is particularly handy when you're using desktop applications like Soti 's Pocket Controller (SPC) which allows you to view and control your Pocket PC from your desktop, using your desktop screen, keyboard and mouse. I use this application everyday for entering data at high speed using my PC keyboard - also great for SMS! One last note on SPC is that it's one a couple of great rewards! 
Features of the O2 XDA II Mini Aftermarket Cradle Charger:
- Use your O2 XDA II Mini while charging
- Synchronise and Charges XDA Mini
- Blue LED light which indicates power
- Either uses USB or AC Adapter/Charger power
- Comes with both European and Australian AC Adapters
- Conveniently small in size which means that it's highly portable
- Meets CE regulations
O2 XDA II Mini Aftermarket Cradle Charger Package Includes:
- Cradle Charger featuring Blue LED power light and USB cable
- European AC Power Adapter
- Australian AC Power Adapter Order your O2 XDA II Mini Desktop Cradle Charger here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
SanDisk's MobileMate line of Mobile Readers are amongst the smallest readers on the market & unique in its compatibility class (SD/miniSD/MultiMediaCard/RS-MMC/TransFlash & Memory Stick/Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick PRO/ Memory Stick PRO Duo), ideal for memory-enabled mobile phone users and photo travel needs. We currently have the SD/ Secure Digital version in stock. The flash memory cards can be plugged directly into the readers. No card adapters are required. Carry it with you so you always have access to your important data. If you're looking for a USB Card reader with also memory on board, check out our very own Mr.Gadget ComboDrive 256MB which also reads similar memory cards. Sandisk MobileMate SD+ 5-in-1 ReaderAccepts the following memory cards without the need for an adapter:1. SD / Secure Digital Card 2. miniSD 3. MultiMediaCard / MMC 4. RS-MMC 5. TransFlash Order your Sandisk MobileMate SD 5-in-1 Card Reader here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Just when you thought that memory card capacities had stabilised, out comes Sandisk with their 4GB Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash Memory Card! Talk about huge! I've got a 1GB Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash Card and it takes me a couple of family events to fill up this, but imagine what you could store on a 4GB compact flash card?! No more worrying about what resolution you should be shooting at - shoot at the largest, which also means that you'll be able to blow up any good shots. Considering that the Sandisk 2GB Ultra II Compact Flash retailed at around $969 a couple of months ago, this 4GB card is a bargain!
The SanDisk Ultra II CompactFlash/CF memory cards have a minimum sustained write speed of 9 megabytes (MB) per second! Get faster speed for all the things you do with the Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash/CF Card 66x Speed!
Advanced Features of the Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash/CF memory card:
- Faster write speed means less time between shots.
- Ready for rapid-fire shooting.
- High-density flash memory and optimized controller. technology lets you save large image files faster.
- Compatible with all digital cameras, handheld PCs, digital audio players, and other devices that feature a CompactFlash/CF memory card slot
Digital Storage Image Chart for the Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash Cards: 
Order your 4GB Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash Memory Card here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Ever since we started this business we've been on the lookout for a high quality battery charger for inclusion in our gadget catalogue. Eureka! With the Rezap Battery Doctor - 5 in 1 Battery Charger, we've found it! The ReZAP Battery Doctor allows you to recharge and extend the useful life of your batteries - even batteries that are supposedly non-rechargeable. Now you can recharge and reuse not just costly rechargeable batteries but also ordinary Alkaline, RAM and now high performance Titanium batteries. And of course also rechargeable types like NiCd and NiMH (with increased effectiveness).
Different battery types give different results with the ReZap Battery Doctor - 5 in 1 Battery Charger:
- Ordinary Alkaline batteries are rechargeable up to 15 times*
- RAM batteries are rechargeable up to 25 times*
- Titanium batteries are rechargeable up to 15 times*
- NiCd up to 1000 times* (about 800 times using standard rechargers)
- NiMH up to 600 times* (about 500 times using standard rechargers)
A lot of effort has been put into the Rezap Battery Charger which has gone through stringent testing in order to comply with strict Australian and International Standards for Electrical Safety. See below:
The ReZap Battery Doctor Charger complies with the relevant Australian and International Standards for Electrical Safety:
- AS/NZS 3108:1994
- AS/NZS 3350.1:2000
- AS/NZS 3350.2.29:2001
- EN 206041A
- EN 60335.1
- EN 60335.2.29
- EMC & C-Tick (AS/NZS 1044:1995)
- CE (EN50082-1)
- FCC Part 15 Class B
Customer Testimonials on the Rezap Battery Doctor - 5 in 1 Battery Charger:
[Click here to see customer testimonials on the Rezap battery charger.]
Do yourself and the environment a huge favour and pick up one of these beauties today!
You can order your Rezap Battery Doctor - 5 in 1 Battery Charger at Mr.Gadget Australia!
The Krusell premium leather cases for the O2 XDA Minis are in stock! Like the O2 XDA IIs Krusell cases, they have been eagerly anticipated and the long trip from Sweden didn't help anyone's anxiousness! Enough from me, Mark one of our gadget sales reps and resident O2 XDA II Mini expert just wrote a glowing review on his case. Check it out below: Krusell O2 XDA II Mini Leather Case Review - Mark Fulgeuras
"Exquisite! That is the only word to describe this O2 XDA II Mini leather case. When choosing a case for PDA's, I have three criteria that need to be met. Must not add bulk. Must cover 90% (minus the screen) of the unit or more. Must look good! With the o2 XDA II Mini (iMate Jam) Leather Case Handit Multidapt by Krusell, I must say that all three criteria were passed with flying colours. The first significant thing I noticed (after the soothing beautiful leather smell) was how snug my Mini fit into the case. Definitely no slippage in this thing. And even though it covers 90% of the unit, Krusell still managed to engineer this case so the user has access to all buttons, slots and openings on the Mini. One thing most case manufacturers forget to implement in their design is a hole for the reset button. Not with Krusell. Even the tiny reset button on the Mini was not overlooked! I have tried silicon cases, metal cases and other leather cases. They’re good but the Krusell is on a different level. Not even my Covertec leather case comes close to the perfection of the Krusell O2 XDA II Mini Leather Case." (08/03/2005) Order your O2 XDA II Mini Leather Case by Krusell here at Mr.Gadget!
(Get in quick because we only have a limited quantity.)
It may not mean a great deal to many, but for us O2 XDA IIs / iMate PDA2K owners, today is a happy day...the O2 XDA IIs Krusell Leather Cases have arrived from Sweden and they are beautiful! Gone are the days of carrying my O2 XDA IIs and wallet separately. I had a Krusell Leather Case with my O2 XDA II and I enjoyed having a case that could also hold my credit and extra storage cards. Krusell, you've done it again! Thankyou! We only have a limited number and I don't know of anyone else in Australia selling these, so get yours fast! ** Important Note: For customers buying this premium leather case please be aware that when installing, slide open O2 XDA IIs / iMate PDA2k and place the keyboard section under the plastic keyboard protector. Once fitted, slide back the O2 XDA IIs / iMate PDA2K over the cover. When I got mine today and I initally tried sliding the whole bottom into the plastic keyboard protector - do not make this mistake as this could break your new case. Once it's on properly the added protection is excellent! Order your O2 XDA IIs Krusell Leather Case here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Yes, it's Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend again here in Melbourne and it looks like our weather will provide a little bit of challenge to the F1 racers. The adrenalin must be starting to pump, with the big race only hours away. Will Weber show that he's more than words? Will Schuie bring home the bacon like so many times before? Time will tell, but I'm going for Ferrari because Michael Schumacher is just a champion! 
News today is that Giancarlo Fisichella and Renault have claimed the first provisional pole of the new-look Formula One qualifying procedure... Click here for more information on the Melbourne Grand Prix - Australia!
Today PC World gave the award winning Pinnacle Studio Plus Version 9 Video Editing Software, 4.5 out of 5 in their review of this great application. I actually bought a copy myself, after seeing first-hand how easy it was to compile a DVD from digital video footage. For those who want a video editing software package with great easy features to use without having to read a 1000 page manual, Pinnacle Studio Plus Version 9 is for you! Click here to read some of PC World's Review on Pinnacle Studio Plus Version 9 Video Editing Software.
* PLUS : Multi-track video editing
* PLUS : Chroma Key (Blue screen) effects
* PLUS : Picture-in-Picture (PIP) effects
* PLUS : Animated photo slide shows with Pan-and-Zoom effects
Pinnacle Studio Plus version 9 is an advanced consumer video editing and disc authoring application whose intuitive interface and seamless workflow provide video enthusiasts with on-demand access to hundreds of professional-quality functionalities like chroma-key and picture-in-picture effects, image stabilization, automated editing, color correction, noise removal and digital surround sound, while maintaining total ease of use from start to finish. Easy Video Editing with Pinnacle Studio Plus Version 9
3-Step process
Transfer your video to the PC, tell your story, and share it on tapes, CDs, DVDs or on the Internet: Pinnacle Studio Plus version 9 takes the guesswork out of video editing by making it easy and straightforward.
One click Movie Making option
Create a movie in seconds with SmartMovie. Simply choose both a video and a music track, pick a preset movie style and let Pinnacle Studio Plus instantly create an amazing movie that matches the beat of the background music.
Smart Automated features
Pinnacle Studio Plus has automated features to make video editing faster and easier! SmartCapture minimizes the space of videos on your hard disk while SmartSound generates background music that fits the length of your edited movies. Order Pinnacle Studio Plus Version 9 Video Editing Software here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Krusell, the world leader in carry equipment for portable electronics have developed a functional lanyard that features a safety lock and easy neck clip fastener to hold your digital accessories. You can use this Krusell lanyard to carry mobile phones, security passes, keys and anything else you don't want to lose. This Krusell lanyard featuring a safety lock, is fashionably wider (approx. 1.8cm) than most ordinary lanyards you can buy on the streets - it exudes a distinct look but also ensures that you will not misplace it that easily.
Krusell Lanyard's unique safety lock:
Here is the picture of Krusell's Safety Lock, which allows you to quickly attach/de-attach your gadgets.
Krusell Lanyard's unique neck clip fastener:
Here's a picture of the neck clip fastener, which allows you to attach/de-attach the lanyard to your neck. Much like putting on a necklace, put without the hassle of the tiny intricate clips - just snap it on and off. Get your Krusell Lanyard featuring safety lock, here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Booq Bags think they are the coolest laptop sleeves around and after checking them out myself, at this point in history, I would have to agree! Read the product information for the Booq Vyper 12 inch Laptop Sleeves (XS) and judge for yourself. If these are as popular with you gadgeteers out there like they are in the U.S., we'll slowly add the rest of the jazzy Booq range to our catalogue! Booq Vyper 12" Laptop Sleeve XS Product Description
Simply put, Booq's Vyper has to be the coolest laptop sleeve. Booq has sandwiched durable, semi-rigid high density foam between a layer of 1682D cross-weave ballistic nylon on the exterior and a super non-scratch lining on the interior - an effective blend. Virtually molded around your 12-inch laptop, Booq Vyper XS is the most compact sleeve perfectly fitted for your 12-inch laptop, 12-inch iBook or PowerBook. Use it separately, or as additional protection inside another bag, like our Boa or BP3 backpacks. A must-have for every laptop owner.
Just so you know, the Booq Vyper.XS is the perfect sleeve for our other bags and fits into the laptop compartment of the following products: Boa.XM, Mamba.XS, Mamba.XM, PowerSleeve14, as well as all larger products.
Features and Benefits of the Booq Vyper XS:
- Minimalist and stylish protection for your laptop, the perfect case for any environment
- Tough outside, rugged, water-resistant 1682D cross-weave ballistic nylon exterior
- Soft inside: super non-scratch interior lining
- High quality "closed" zipper type for a cleaner look; zipper does not come in contact with laptop
- Two zipper pulls for added convenience
- 1/4" moulded foam construction for impact protection
- No handles - slips easily into your favourite bag and protects your laptop. Specifications of the Booq Vyper XS Laptop Sleeve:
Colour: BlackExterior
Dimensions: 12.2 x 10.1 x 1.9" (310 x 257 x 48mm)
Laptop Compartment: 11.2x9.1x1.4" (284 x 231 x 36mm)
Weight: 9 oz (255grams) Order your Booq Vyper XS 12inch Laptop / Notebook Sleeve here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
We've just received our first batch of o2 XDA Mini/ iMate Jam Stylus Pens! These things are so handy in situations where you need a pen...why carry around a normal pen when you can have one inbuilt into your stylus? For those O2 XDA Mini owners who haven't picked it up yet, this is NOT your normal O2 XDA Mini Stylus...this one has an inbuilt pen!
Features of the o2 XDA Mini /iMate Jam Stylus and Pen:- Built-in Ball Pen for easy note taking - Replaceable ink cartridge - With a reset pin for resetting your PDA - Classic original design, which fits perfectly into your PDA like the original - Will not scratch your PDA screen Get your o2 XDA Mini Pen Stylus here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
Sandisk have just released their new MP3 player range into Australia, the Sandisk Digital Audio Player, in a bid to counter the iPod Shuffle takeover downunder! At the moment, they come in three capacities; each having their own distinctive colour, i.e. 256MB=red, 512MB=blue and 1GB=silver. 
While the Apple iPod Shuffle is priced well and incredibly easy to use, Apple have skimped on what some audiophiles may consider, important must-have features. Sandisk look ready to capitalise in this battle by enticing consumers with iPod Shuffle's missing pieces thus providing: - Four-line indigo backlit LCD that displays song titles and artist names, - Digital FM radio with 20 presets, - Integrated voice recorder with built-in microphone and, - Uses single AAA with up to 15 hours of playback time. On the other hand, noteworthy pluses for the iPod Shuffle are: - Recharged via USB (lasts 12 hours), - 8.4mm thin and, - Built-in USB connector. At the end of the day, they are both superb MP3 players but given all the extra features for a similar price, I choose the Sandisk Digital Audio MP3 Player! Sorry Apple! Sandisk Digital Audio MP3/WMA Player Product Information:
The Sandisk Digital Audio MP3/WMA Player is a small, portable player that uses embedded flash memory instead of a rotating hard drive and plays for up to 15 continuous hours on a single AAA battery. The new Digital Audio Players combine crystal-clear sound with a sleek design and sport a three-button/one-joystick design and easy-to-navigate user interface. The Sandisk Digital Audio Player features MP3, Windows Media file and Windows Media-based DRM file playback, FM radio and voice recording and can double as a USB data storage device. 
Features of the Sandisk Digital Audio MP3/WMA Player:
- Plays MP3, WMA, and WMA DRM - Digital FM tuner with 20 preset stations - Voice Recorder with built-in microphone - Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port for fast and easy transfer of files - Up to 15 hours continuous playback using one AAA battery (included) - Indigo backlit multi-line LCD display Contents of the Sandisk Digital Audio MP3/WMA Player:
- Digital Audio Player - Carrying case with armband - Stereo Earphones - AAA Alkaline Battery - USB 2.0 Cable - Quick Start Guide - CD with Musicmatch Jukebox Software, User Guide, and Windows 98E Driver. 
Dimensions of the Sandisk Digital Audio MP3/WMA Player:
- 2.96" x 1.28" x .82" (L x W x H) 75.2mm x 32.8mm x 20.8mm - 28.9g (w/o battery)39.7g (w/ battery) System Requirements of the Sandisk Digital Audio Player:
- Windows 98SE, 2000, ME, XP; Mac OS 9.2.x+, 10.1.2+ - Compatible with MP3, WMA, and WMA DRM (purchased music) - Intel Pentium PC or equivalent; Macintosh computer with USB support- CD-ROM drive - USB 2.0 port required for Hi-Speed transfer Get your Sandisk MP3 Player from Mr.Gadget Australia!(We'll be getting our first batch early this month)
The wait is over... the Sandisk Ultra II 2GB SD Cards will now be available to Australians! Like its memory stick cousin, the exceptionally fast SanDisk Ultra II SD cards have a minimum sustained write speed of 9 megabytes (MB) per second and a read speed of 10MB per second. The superior speed of this card was designed for serious digital camera photographers. Sandisk Ultra II Series - the Professional Line:
In the fast-paced world of Digital Photography, you rely on your camera and its capabilities. You also rely on your SD cards to be fast, reliable and compatible with your camera. To meet the needs of professional and advanced photographers, SanDisk has developed new, optimized flash cards that:
- Have a minimum sustained write speed of 9MB per second and a read speed of 10MB per second.
- Take advantage of the advanced features of high mega-pixel digital cameras.
- Deliver superior speed. Now you can capture those high-resolution images even faster!
- Do it all with low power consumption, which means longer battery life.
SanDisk Ultra II SD cards are ideal for your most demanding photo shoots, including photojournalism and event, sports, nature and fashion photography.
Advanced Features of the Sandisk Ultra II 2GB SD/Secure Digital Cards:
- Faster write speed means less time between shots.
- Ready for rapid-fire shooting.
- High-density flash memory and optimized controller. technology lets you save large image files faster.
- Lifetime Warranty.
Sandisk Ultra II 2GB SD Card Image Chart:
Get your Sandisk Ultra II 2GB SD/Secure Digital Card here at Mr.Gadget Australia!
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