Late last month, Logitech Australia announced the release of their latest laptop accessory – the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700. With this gadget, they address the ever increasing demand for quality laptop coolers as more and more people use them on their laps for either work or entertainment.

I like how the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 comes with an anti-sweat material covered cushioned base which means extra comfort. The integrated speakers and laptop stops are also great ideas.

My only gripe is that although it only takes one USB to power both cooling and speakers built in, it doesn’t provide its own USB ports which is important if you are charging your mobile phone as well as using some other USB device such as a 3G USB dongle. Mac users in particular will feel some level of annoyance given most MAC laptops, like my MacBookPro 13″ only comes with 2 USB ports as is.

Besides this, overall I love the smooth and comfortable design of the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700.

Availability in Australia will be later this month and only through Officeworks

Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 Video:

Press Release for Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700:

SYDNEY, Australia – February 23rd, 2010 – You’re already using your laptop to listen to music, play games, watch movies, TV and videos. You’re already using it on the lounge and on the bed. But you’re looking for a way to be comfortable, and you know what a difference high-quality audio can make when you’re enjoying good entertainment. For a theatre-like experience on your laptop, Logitech Australia today introduced the Logitech® Speaker Lapdesk N700 — the company’s first all-in-one laptop accessory with integrated stereo speakers, a built-in fan and a wide padded base.

“More and more people around the world are enjoying fantastic entertainment on their laptops — but with mediocre sound and comfort,” said Denis Pavillard, Logitech vice president of product marketing for laptop accessories. “In fact, according to our research nearly 50 percent of laptop users report being dissatisfied with the sound quality of the built-in speakers. The Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 helps transform your laptop into a private theatre in the cozy confines of your lap.”

Unlike most laptop speakers, the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 offers two built-in high-definition speakers with 2-inch high-performance speakers. Specially designed for notebook computers, the stereo speakers are precisely positioned on either side of your laptop to give you rich sound and powerful bass. And, because they connect through a single USB cable, there’s no cable clutter or the hassle of moving and setting up external speakers.

While you’re enjoying entertainment on your laptop, the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 helps keep you comfortable. Whether you’re on the lounge or in bed, the viewing angle of your screen and the padded base help you sit in a more comfortable position. Meanwhile, a quiet, efficient fan circulates air under your notebook, and the heat-shielding design helps keep laptop heat off your legs and lap. Plus, a grill protects the fan from dust and damage, and rear and bottom air intakes ensure steady, unobstructed airflow.

The Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 is easy to set up and use, just plug in the single USB cable and play movies, music, online videos, and more in rich, full stereo sound – there’s no software to install and no need for batteries. And to put convenient, independent control at your fingertips, the Speaker Lapdesk N700 offers volume controls for the speakers and an On/Off switch for the fan.

The Logitech N700 is the latest addition to Logitech’s recently introduced range of Lapdesks. The range includes the Logitech Comfort Lapdesk for Notebooks (SRP $99.95 AUD), Logitech Cooling Pad N100 (SRP $59.95 AUD) and Logitech Portable Lapdesk N315 (SRP $49.95 AUD). These are currently available in retail stores nationally.

Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 will be available in Australia from late March for a suggested retail price of $149.95 AUD inc. GST. It will be sold exclusively through Office Works nationwide.

YouTube – Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700.

These days I’m a lot more picky about the gadgets that I carry in my laptop bag. It’s more because of the fact that I just have so damn many of them! Some of my prerequisite requirements for each carefully, much-thought-about, hand-selected gadget that makes it way to a specific section of my gadget bag are: super light, compact, functional and of course has to look uber-cool! In terms of USB hubs, the Targus 4 Port Smart USB Hub (ACH112US) meets all these requirements.

Here are some of the best things I liked about the Targus 4 Port Smart USB Hub:

• Built-in flexible USB 2.0 Cable : you’ll never get frustrated trying to locate a missing cable
• Feather weight : at 90 grams it’s definitely one of the lightest out there. Perfect for travelers
• Expands one USB port into four : no need to explain the benefits of this especially when you have many USB gadgets like moi
• Compact design : there are a lot more chunkier designs out there. The less room it takes up in my bag the better
• USB 2.0 Speed: while it’s not the newest USB 3.0, the performance of this hub is still satisfactory

Highly recommended guys! Get one!

Targus 4 Port Smart USB Hub Product Description

The Targus 4-Port Smart USB Hub allows the user to expand one USB port to four high-speed ports to connect and charge your iPod/MP3 player, Smartphone or peripherals through the laptop. The easy 1-touch reset button instantly restores the connection to all devices so you don’t have to unplug and re-plug cables. For added convenience, indicator lights show when devices are connected. The wrap-around USB cable never gets lost and protects the USB ports from dust and damage when not in use. Featuring a sleek, compact design, the Targus Smart USB Hub is portable and easy-to-use at home, in the office or during travel.

Features of the Targus 4 Port Smart USB Hub:

• Functionality – Expands one USB port to four; Wrap around cable protects USB ports from dust & damage; Optional AC adapter available for high powered devices
• Features – Easy 1-touch reset button restores connection to all USB devices; Indicator light shows when devices are connected
• Material – Durable silicone wrap-around cable
• Compatibility – PC/Mac Compatible
• RoHS Compliant – Yes

Specifications of the Targus 4 Port Smart USB Hub:

• Colour Black
• Size 9.9 x 4.1 x 1.8 cm
• Warranty Limited One Year
• Weight 0.09 kg

Buy One from Us : Targus 4 Port Smart USB Hub Product Page

Need a light compact keyboard that you can take with you on the road or to fit on that small desktop space?

Check out the Targus Compact USB Keyboard (AKB05)!

The beauty about this keyboard is that despite being compact, it comes with standard-sized keys so you get the feel of a standard keyboard. However it’s missing the numeric keypad which isn’t a big loss if you’re using it more for wordpressing and sysadmin work.

Other features I liked on the Targus Compact USB Keyboard were the built-in Internet and email hot keys which makes quick access to these most daily-used functions. The USB interface offers hot swap and plug and play functionality for ease of use and deployment.

Features of the Targus Compact USB Keyboard

• Built-in hot keys: Pre-programmed Internet and email hot keys enhance productivity
• Transportable: Lightweight and compact for maximum portability
• Plug and Play: Provides seamless desktop replacement for notebook PC users
• Languages: AKB05 is available in English, German, French, Italian, and Dutch layouts

Giveaway Details

Targus has kindly offered us one Targus Compact USB Keyboard to give away. To be in the running, simply write a comment below on what is the best feature you like about this keyboard by this Friday 17th July 2009. We will select a random comment and announce the winner on Saturday 18th July 2009. Easy huh?

Targus Compact USB Keyboard

Do you have more USB devices than you do USB ports? If yes, then chances are high that powering your USB gadgets on internationally trips will be one of your biggest gripes in life.

Solution: iLuv Dual USB International Power Pack. Not only does it support 4 of the main AC plug types but it has, not one, but two USB charge ports! And it’s small enough to tuck into your laptop bag or overnighter.

Nice iLuv.

Product Features iLuv Dual USB International Power Pack:
•    Charge your USB devices anywhere
•    Supports 4 different AC plug types
•    Input: AC 100V-240V, 50Hz/60Hz
•    Output: DC 5V, 1A (max)

Whats included:
•    USB AC Adapter
•    4 International plugs: Australia/New Zealand, US, continental Europe, UK & Hong Kong

UPC Number
•    639247-74021 1

Giveaway Details

Want one? Well iWorld Australia has given us one to giveaway. All you need to do is a leave a comment below and will choose a random winner this Friday (24/04/2009).  Australian residents only.

Via iWorld Australia

The Sandisk Cruzer Titanium range of USB Flash drives are some of the best on the market.

Not only do they have super fast data transfer speeds, slide-out design (no lost lids) but they are incredibly robust being able to withstand almost 1 tonne of pressure!

What more could you ask for?

I got my sister a 4GB version last year and now she’s asking me for another one?!

I think this 16GB will do her just fine.

Features of the Sandisk Cruzer Titanium U3 Flash Drive 16GB:

o Retractable USB connector
o Dimensions: 7.14mm x 19.05mm x 57.94mm (D x W x L)
o Rugged Liquidmetal®  body
o Crush force exceeds 2000 lbs
o Laser etched graphics and finish
o U3 smart enabled
o Loaded with the following U3 compatible PC programs
+ CruzerSync synchronization tool
+ SignupShield password manager
+ SKYPE “Make video calls from PC to PC”
+ AVAST virus scan
o Dimensions: 7.14mm x 19.05mm x 57.94mm (D x W x L)
o Distinctive Blue LED
o Hi-Speed USB 2.0 certified (backwards compatible with all USB 1.1 ports)
o USB Mass Storage Class Device
o Compatible with Windows 2000 SP4 and XP *
o Certified Windows 2000 and  XP *
* U3 functionality only supported on Windows 2000 & XP OS

16GB Sandisk Cruzer Titanium USB Flash Drive 16GB Page

Remember the lava lamp? That funkadelic lamp with the moving colored bubbles? Well its era has come and gone. This begs the question : “What will take its place?” The answer my friends is the USB Glitter Lamp.

The best thing I like about this USB Glitter Lamp is its subtle sparkle which will not only add some cheer to your desk but will keep you entertained for many hours.

For those looking to make more friends around the office, this is definitely a conversation starter!

All you need is a spare USB port and within seconds witness this USB Glitter Lamp come to life.

It also makes for a perfect gift!

Features of the USB Glitter Lamp

• Brighten up your desktop
• Emit sparkles of light on the desktop and walls
• Can be used for night web surfing
• No batteries required, powered by USB
• Includes 180cm USB cable
• Uses single small light bulb
• Filled with clear liquid and a bunch of glitter flakes

USB Glitter Lamp Order Page

Is it just me or are laptop USB ports on the decline?  Do the manufacturers seriously think that we can survive with only 2 USB ports?

If you suffer from a USB port deficiency like I am, you may want to consider the Belkin Hi-Speed USB 2.0 4-port Hub. There are a couple of things I especially like about this USB hub: it’s sleek design; wide footprint ensures stability even when it’s fully decked; stackable design and USB 2.0 capabilities.

There are other USB 2.0 hubs available but from previous experiences I wanted something that was heavy enough to sit properly on my desk even after yanking USB memory drives out. This seemed to be the most solid model.

For travelling or on the road situations I would definitely consider using something lighter and smaller like the Belkin Pocket 4-Port USB Hub.

Features of the Belkin Hi-Speed USB 2.0 4-Port Hub

• Offers stackable, reversible design
• Features four 480Mbps ports, Transfers your data at up to 480Mbps
• Prevents damage to your computer and devices with over-current protection
• Connect up to 2 high-speed devices without a power supply
• Installs easily with Plug-and-Play convenience
• Lets you monitor port and power status with LEDs
• Works seamlessly with all your USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 devices
• Comes with a Belkin Lifetime Warranty

Even though it’s been on the market for a while but it’s still one of the best in my opinion.

Well done Belkin.

Belkin – HI-SPEED USB 2.0 4-PORT HUB Order Page

Toshiba have added a 500GB version to their line of 2.5″ portable USB 2.0 External drives. That’s a lot of data storage in a small space!

Colors now available in Frost White, Electric Blue, Hot Rod Red and Carbon Grey.

Toshiba Portable USB External Hard Drive Description
Hassle-free, simple and easy, Toshiba’s external hard drives are the solution to your backup needs. The included NTI Shadow backup software eliminates the need to push a button or click an icon to activate a backup. Plug in the drive, load the software and you’ll have peace of mind in knowing that all of your important digital photos, music, movies and documents are backed up, protected and portable. The software runs in the background capturing updates to files and automatically saving them to the external drive.

Compatible with both Macs and PCs, it’s USB powered and ready to go wherever you need your data.

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And yet another attempt to pack digital files into USB drives as a media for public consumption. Sony has recently announced that it will be selling movies and music on USB flash drives soon. Among the movies that be nabbed are Men In Black and The Da Vinci Code for US$29.99 per.

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If you’re looking for a reliable USB Bluetooth adapter, look no more. Our Stubby USB Bluetooth adapter is an uber-small USB device that’ll give your computer instant Bluetooth connectivity. Stubby supports USB 2.0 and Bluetooth + EDR that can support transfer speeds of up to 3Mbps.

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