New Technologies

Special speakers

With a frequency response of 90 Hz–20 kHz, these LaCie FireWire speakers deliver powerful, vibrant sound for your music, movies and games. The speakers connect easily to computers, either laptops or desktops, as well as MP3 players, using the built-in FireWire cable. FireWire provides superior digital audio as well as line power — no need for batteries or an AC adapter.

The FireWire speakers take advantage of FireWire 400's inherent superiority as an audio connection. Conventional speakers attached to a headphone jack have to contend with noise distortion from the computer's circuitry and USB speakers vie for limited bandwidth and power, by sharing the bus with the keyboard, mouse and other peripherals. And while other portable speaker manufacturers increase treble or bass to simulate better sound, LaCie FireWire speakers rely on 8 watt minimum audio output for true sound fidelity. Sound can be tuned to individual preference within iTunes, Winamp or whatever the user's chosen audio/video application.

For information visit, www.lacie.com/products/product.htm?pid=10880

No ink pen

A pen that has no ink has appeared on the market. The device works on virtually any type of paper and, with no ink, it will not smudge — no matter how wet the markings get! The solid metal "nib" consists of a metal alloy that leaves a mark. When used on paper typically found in lab books, printers and photocopiers, the pen leaves a mark that looks as if it was made by a pencil. However, unlike pencil markings, the line will not smudge and cannot be rubbed out.

And, as there is no ink, there is nothing to dry out, so the pen will work just as well in 25 years time as it does today.

For more information, visit www.grand-illusions.com/acatalog/info_48.html

Disinfectant light

This hand-held disinfectant light is the first to use UV-C light and nanotechnology.The light, the size of a cell phone, eliminates 99.99% of E-Coli, staphylococcus, salmonella and germs that cause influenza and the common cold without using toxic chemicals. It uses the same UV technology allowing you to disinfect workplace keyboards or telephones, as well as items in the home that sustain germ vitality such as toothbrushes and cutting boards. Disinfecting surfaces in 10 seconds, the light is held 1/4" to 4" away from the contaminated area. The internal timer signals when sterilization is complete, while the automatic shut-off feature ensures safety.

And its size means it easily fits in shirt pockets or briefcases for convenient travel.

For more information, visit www.thegreenhead.com/2007/01/zadro-nano-handheld-germ-eliminating-uv-light-scanner.php

Mouse mat

Could this be the ultimate mouse mat? Designed using state-of-the-art automotive 3D modelling software, it features a surface of solid, 3 mm thick polished carbon fibre with a backing of fine Italian black suede. The mouse mat is hand-made in the UK exclusively for Formula 1 by specialist composite technicians who make monocoques.

For more information, visit http://f1store.formula1.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=30