Items listed here are supplied from the amazon.com® online shop in the USA. All prices are in US$.
Note that a number of items can only be shipped to addresses in the US, at least at the moment.
• Quickly washes and dries salads and vegetables
• Large 5-quart capacity
• Two bowls: one standard size and one smaller for delicate produce
• Two-way rotating action for better cleaning and drying
• Dishwasher-safe
"The Salad Shower Plus is a washing machine for lettuce. With its special flow-through design, water runs through the spinner lid and out the bottom. Pull the cord and the basket revolves in both directions, rinsing away the dirt and taking away the drudgery of washing lettuce and other leafy greens. The white plastic basket removes from the clear spinner bowl to double as a colander for general washing. There's also a smaller basket for rinsing berries, herbs, and other tender produce that benefits from a gentler spinning action." Lynne Sampson.
$25.00 ASIN:B00004R92M Buy (currently US only).
"The Good Grips line features durable, nonslip, flexible handles on every product. Ergonomically designed to fit the palm comfortably, the pressure-absorbing processed rubber handle puts less tension on the hands while still providing an outstanding grip. Made from the same material as dishwasher gaskets, the handles are slip-proof--wet or dry--as well as dishwasher-safe. Good Grips products are moderately priced and have won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award." Laurie Notaro.
• Constructed from brushed stainless steel
• Locks in closed position for easy storage
• Cushioned, nonslip handles and thumb rests
• Large hanging loop for easy storage
• Dishwasher-safe
"Sometimes overlooked as a valuable kitchen tool, tongs serve a variety of kitchen duties: tossing salads, flipping cutlets in a frying pan, snagging stubborn pickles from a jar, and more. These tongs are constructed of brushed stainless steel for easy cleaning and durability. A locking mechanism closes the tongs for easy storage, and provides a large loop for hanging. The Good Grips line features durable, nonslip flexible handles on every product. Ergonomically designed to fit the palm comfortably and csoftly, the pressure-absorbing processed rubber handle puts less tension on the hands, while providing an outstanding grip. Made from the same material as dishwasher gaskets are constructed of, the handles are slip-proof, wet or dry, as well as dishwasher-safe. Good Grips products are moderately priced and have won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award." Laurie Notaro.
"So good, I have one in each of three sizes! Real life (and finger) savers. Sturdy construction with a strong spring. The locking ability is a god-send. I use the super long set for avoiding hot oil splashes and over the grill. Great reach, good balance, easy to clean." Greg Leaf from Glorieta, NM.
"I'm lost without my tongs! Tongs are the MOST useful tool in my kitchen. I use them to: stir fry, turn hot foods on the grill, hold meat while I slice it, etc. etc. The rubber handles put these tongs over the top. Get 'em greasy, get 'em wet, doesn't matter, they won't slip. Another bonus - where other tongs get too hot these are fine because the rubber stays cool. You can safely use these to fish things out from a pot of boiling water! Try that with a pair of all metal tongs... ouch! I also like the ability to lock them in the closed position. You will not regret buying these tongs." "Goofy" from Seattle, WA.
$9.00 ASIN B00004OCK1 Buy currently US only).
• Comfortable nonslip rubber handle
• 12-ounce capacity
• Keeps liquids hot and exterior cool
• Double-walled stainless-steel construction
• Dishwasher-safe
"You'll be the envy of the office when you show up at the coffee machine with this hot little number in your hand. With its double-walled stainless-steel construction, the mug keeps your beverage hot while its exterior remains cool to the touch. Its 12-ounce capacity means you can sit back and enjoy the java without having to run for refills as often. You might want to consider keeping it in your drawer when it's empty; after all, jealousy makes people do crazy things."
$15.00 ASIN: B00004OCNB Buy. (Currently US only).
The outstanding feature of Oxo's Natural Grip bread knife is its ergonomically designed, curved handle that reduces wrist strain by maintaining the natural position of the hand and wrist without twisting or lifting. The sharp stainless-steel blade will accommodate any loaf, including both hard and soft varieties.
$12.00, ASIN: B00004OCJA Buy. (Currently US only).
OXO's version of a cheese slicer that is popular in Norway. Pull it across the cheese for even, clean slices. JVB.
$8.00 ASIN: B00004OCJM Buy. (Currently US only).
"Regular mixing bowls look naked next to this one, whose attributes include a nonslip, wrap-around base that prevents slipping, a spout for easy and clean pouring, and a nonslip handle so you can tilt it with a firm grip. Use it to whip up a vinaigrette or a few scrambled eggs. You'll never look at a plain bowl the same way again. This rugged bowl is also dishwasher-safe." Laurie Notaro.
"A must have if you have Kids! This bowl is great! The grippy bottom prevents spills from not-so-graceful kids (and grown-ups too). I have had more than one mishap with a bowl sliding off the counter. Not with this bowl. The handle and pour-spout are a nice bonus too." A parent from Beaverton, OR, USA.
Very useful for those with use of only one hand, or limited muscle control.
2-quart (~2.2 litre), $6.99 ASIN: B00004OCMZ Buy. (Currently US only)
4-quart (~4.5 litre), $8.99 ASIN: B00004OCMY Buy. (Currently US only)
Low-fat cooking ridges drain fat away from food
Heavy-gauge aluminum for quick, even heating
Hard-anodized surfaces resist sticking and scratching
Textured cast stainless-steel "Cool V" handles
Lifetime warranty
Cooks who want the grilling experience without having to go outside should consider this grill from Calphalon, a round, hard-anodized aluminum pan that measures 12 inches across. Meats and vegetables are cooked on the solid ribbed surface, which drains fat away from foods. The patented "Cool V" cast stainless steel handle stays cool when cooking over a hot stove and has a comfortable grip. The nonporous and nonreactive hard-anodized surface resists sticking and doesn't affect the flavor or color of food. It's also tough enough to handle stainless-steel utensils. Unlike pans with plastic or wood handles, the extremely sturdy all-metal construction provides the flexibility to take the pan to the oven to keep food warm until it's ready to serve. Remember to hand wash all Calphalon pans--dishwasher detergents are bad for the finish, and their use voids the lifetime warranty." Dale Steinke
Massive saving: Only $19.99, ASIN: B00004SY74 Buy.
Soft knob and long arm make grinding easy, comfortable, Clear door shows peppercorn level and opens wide for filling, Adjustable for coarse or fine grind, Made of durable plastic; stands 5-1/2 inches high.
"Oxo Good Grips first earned its considerable reputation by making comfortable-to-use, high-performance kitchen tools, so it's no surprise that this pepper mill feels good in the hand and works like a charm. With its large, soft knob and long arm, the mill grinds peppercorns easily as the handle turns round and round or back and forth. Filling the mill is also easy because the door (made of clear plastic so you can easily check the peppercorn level) opens wide. The mill's large capacity means fewer refills, and the grinding mechanism adjusts for coarse or fine grinding. Finally, Oxo thoughtfully solves the most common problem with pepper mills--leaking pepper--by providing a snap-on base for when the mill is not in use. The mill stands 5-1/2 inches high and is made of tough, durable plastic. Oxo makes a large-capacity salt shaker to pair with this mill." Fred Brack.
"Spicy And Pleasing. Oxo International has a well deserved reputation for the durability and ease of use of their kitchen products--earning them the Tylenol Arthritic award. And this pepper grinder fits that mold perfectly. My husband collects pepper grinders and this one is his favorite. With its extended arm and comfortable knob grip, he can pepper his salad and sizzling sirloin quickly--and he eats a lot of pepper. So much so that if eating out, the poor server usually ends up just handing him the mill. I like this grinder for two main reasons: the large capacity can be watched through the clear area and the cap which snaps on the bottom, when not in use, keeps my sponge work to a minimum. This is a good product at a good price. Paired with a bottle of specialty peppercorns , such as Wedding Blend, it could make a spicy gift for house-warmings, bridal showers or holiday events." A Kitchen & Housewares user from USA.
$16.99, ASIN: B00004U8LT Buy.
"Focused on "healthy living" rather than chronic dieting, Cooking Light is geared towards both the veteran cook who wants to "lighten up" and the novice determined to give up prepackaged "diet" meals. Each issue covers a different theme, from "superfast suppers" to "pretty, easy fruit pies," and includes features on food-related health trends; fast, healthy meals; and original recipes from readers. We especially like it when the editors rescue a reader's favorite, albeit fatty, recipe, giving it a healthy makeover, showing before-and-after stats on calories, fat, and cholesterol. The message is clear: you don't have to sacrifice the foods you love once you learn to "eat smart."" Daphne Durham.
The emphasis of this magazine is on healthy eating and living. Each issue covers light cuisine and includes more than 70 recipes with photos. It also explores food and nutrition news as well as fitness, health and beauty.
Magazine Subscription, 11 issues/1 year, $18.00 ($1.64/issue) ASIN: B00005R8B6 Buy.
Card size 5 1/2" x 7 3/4"; 20 cards, 20 envelopes; caption: "May the meaning of Christmas be deeper, it's friendships stronger, and it's hopes brighter as it comes to you this year."
Cards, $6.99 ISBN B00004ZB33 Buy.
by C. S. Lewis, Mary Collier (Illustrator)
Now, for the first time, fans of C.S. Lewis's beloved adventures can celebrate the magical land of Narnia each and every day of the Christmas season! Untie the lavish red ribbon, open the doors, and discover twenty-four magical windows that day by day reveal all the wonders to be found in Narnia. Each window will reveal a new Narnia surprise, and bring you one step closer to Christmas Day! With luminous full-color illustrations by Mary Collier, this very special World of Narnia Advent Calendar is sure to add fun and excitement to your Christmas season. Now, for the first time, fans of C.S. Lewis's beloved adventures can celebrate the magical land of Narnia each and every day of the Christmas season! Untie the lavish red ribbon, open the doors, and discover twenty-four magical windows that day by day reveal all the wonders to be found in Narnia. Each window will reveal a new Narnia surprise, and bring you one step closer to Christmas Day! With luminous full-color illustrations by Mary Collier, this very special World of Narnia Advent Calendar is sure to add fun and excitement to your Christmas season.
"Fans of C.S. Lewis's beloved adventures can celebrate the magical land of Narnia each and every day of the Christmas season with spectacular Advent calendar. Untie the lavish red ribbon, open the doors, and discover 24 magical windows that day by day reveal the wonders to be found in Narnia. Full color." Ingram.
$11.65, ASIN: 0694009849 Buy.
• 10 tools including flat Phillips screwdriver and clip-point knife
• Weighs 1.75 ounces
• Folds to 2-1/2 inches
• Small enough to carry on your key chain
These also come in a range of colours and finishes, and would make a wonderful gift!
"Less than half the size of any other Leatherman tool, the Micra is easily carried in a pocket, on a key ring, or in a purse. Closing to 2-1/2 inches and weighing just 1.75 ounces, this is unlike any pocketknife or multipurpose tool you’ve seen. The Micra features scissors, clip-point knife, tweezers, nail file/cleaner, flat Phillips screwdriver, extra-small screwdriver, medium screwdriver, bottle opener, ruler, and lanyard attachment." The Manufacturer.
"This is a Dream Key Chain tool. I spent a lot of time looking for the perfect key chain tool, and I'm glad that I didn't compromise -- the Leatherman Micra Tool is fantastic -- high quality construction and easy to use -- makes a great gift!" David Schappell from Philadelphia, PA.
$19.99, ASIN: B0000224UA Buy. (currently US only).
• Compact and rigid 1" X 16' design
• Patented blade wiper for longer tape-life
• Patented wear-resistant nylon-coated blade
• Ergonomic and durable ABS plastic housing
• Made in the USA
$5.99 ASIN: B00004TDU9 Buy. (Currently US only).
OXO
Housing is completely covered with non-slip, soft material, Oversized, easy glide locking switch, Special GripClip to hold onto work being measured, Easy to read 1/8" markings, High quality steel tape covered with protective nylon coating.
$11.99, ASIN: B00004W4CB Buy.
OXO
Handles sized proportionally to the task. Tri-lobed handles, which give the best grip and torque are covered in soft, non-slip chemical resistant elastomer and are molded directly unto shaft to create a lifetime bond. Magnetized, textured tips hold fast to screws. US shipping only.
6" #3 Phillips , $6.99, ASIN: B00004W4C9 Buy,
3/16" by 3-1/3" Flathead, $4.79 ASIN: B00004W4C1 Buy.
For slotted screws, designed to get around even the tightest angles. 1/4" and 3/8" slotted blades of special alloy steel, hardened and tempered. Handle designed for secure grip.
$9.29, ASIN: B00002X2BO Buy.
Features:
- Graduations on side 2 are in 32nds, 64ths
- Width of rule is 1"
12" Flex Industrial quality steel rule is precision made with etched fine black graduations for easy reading and long life. This "center finding" rule has the 0 in the middle of the rule. - The Manufacturer.
$7.89, ASIN: B00004T7SQ Buy.
Features:
- Etched increments
- 1/16ths, 1/32ths, 1/64ths, mm
- Small, handy
- Precision measuring
- Can be used as depth gauge
$3.69, ASIN: B00004T7ZV Buy.
• Electronic variable-speed
• Speed shift during drilling
• Drill and Hammer/Drill modes
• 30-day satisfaction guarantee and one-year warranty on parts and labor
"Need to drive Tapcons or just burn through concrete? This hammer drill has the high rpm and the fast bpm's you need to get the job done. The powerful 5-amp motor with its electronic variable-speed makes consistent holes with no kick-backs. The exclusive 2-speed synchromesh transmission allows speed shift without stopping operation. It has an easy one-touch push button change over between drill and hammer drill modes. A control switch with trigger lock improves drilling precision. For better control and accuracy, it has an adjustable easy grip side handle. Hitachi power tools are backed by a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor. Includes: chuck key - 930515, side handle - 301954, depth gauge - 971677, case - 310904." The Manufacturer.
We have the 240v version (for Australia) and it works very well. JVB.
$169.99 ASIN: B00004T7XS Order (currently US only).
These are a range of heavy duty extension cables. Yellow for high visibility. The 300 volt rating refers to the insulation rating of the actual cable. The connectors the standard 125 volt / 15 Amp type. The lower the gauge number (the 10, 12 or 14 before the slash), the thicker the wire. This means less resistance, so better current carrying ability and less voltage sag at high current. The 3 after the slash means it is 3 core cable, so includes earth/ground. These will give many years of service, so ordering a heavier grade cord is a good investment.
"300 Volt HD Polar Solar Extension Cords - Yellow ... 125V rating, 15A. Coleman's T-Prene insulated all-weather, all-condition cordage is UL listed for outdoor use, meets OSHA requirements, maintains total flexibility to [Standard] 7-700 C. Won't crack, peel, flake, or bake out in the most bitter arctic cold. Rugged T-Prene insulation shrugs off oil, grease, acids, solvents and offers outstanding resistance to abrasion, ozone and other on-the-job hazards. Weighs 1/3 less than ordinary cordage." Coleman Cable.
25 feet, 12/3 gauge, 15 amp, $15.99, ASIN: B0000225BO Buy.
50 feet, 12/3 gauge, 15 amp, $26.99, ASIN: B0000225BN Buy.
100 feet, 10/3 gauge, 15 amp, 21.85 pounds, $79.99, ASIN: B0000225BK Buy.
100 feet, 14/3 gauge, 13 amp, 8.4 pounds, $34.99, ASIN: B0000225BP Buy.
Same quality cable as above, but with a "Quadnector" four way outlet at the end of the cable. More convenient than cable and seperate multi-outlet unit. (The illustration at Amazon.com shows a shorter version.)
50 feet, 12/3 gauge, 15 amp, $31.99, ASIN: B0000225BH Buy.
Store and carry cables, cords, emergency supplies, etc. Has front pockets and durable double web handles.
$14.99, ASIN: B000022688 Buy.
From: Leviton
Outlet to lampholder. U.L. Listed.
$1.79 ASIN: B00002NAVP Buy. (Currently US only).
From Leviton
Two-piece strain-relief clamp centers cord for neat installation. Triple drive head screws 3/16". Deep slotted backed out terminal screws draw backwire clamps securely over stripped leads for maximum conductivity. Husk and module keyed for easy alignmentduring wiring. Built-in cord grip adjusts automatically for use with No. 12-3 cords. U.L. Listed.
Yellow, $3.29, ASIN: B00002NASE Buy. (Currently US only).
Black, $3.19 ASIN: B00002NASD Buy. (Currently US only).
From Leviton
Triple drive head screws 3/16". Deep slotted, backed out terminal screws draw backwire clamps securely over stripped leads for maximum conductivity. Built-in cord grip adjusts automatically for use with No. 18-2 through No. 12-3 cords. Resists moisture and chemicals. Suited for outdoor cords. Dimpled body design provides a secure grip. Speed-thread assembly screws tighten with just a few quick turns. Husk and module keyed for easy alignment during wiring. U.L. Listed.
White, $4.99 ASIN: B00002NAUS Buy.
"Stainless steel barrel, replaceable nickel plated copper tip and heat/impact resistant handle. Pencil thin iron ideal for fine soldering and hobbywork. Can be used for small intricate jobs such as electronics kits, model railways and jewelry making." The Manufacturer.
Suitable for general electronics soldering. JVB.
$12.99, ASIN: B00002N7S9 Buy.
Ideal for hobbies, stained glass, and minor repairs, includes 3/8" diameter replaceable nickel-plated copper tip and a tool rest, stainless steel barrel.
Suitable for some heavy wiring. JVB.
$26.40 ASIN: B00002N7S3 Buy. (US only).
SP175. 12-1/2" long.
Extra heavy duty for demanding jobs like sheet metal work, Soldering rest is included.
UL Listed.
$51.83, ASIN: B00002N7S4 Buy. (US only).
"Highest output gun with two position trigger selection of dual heats. Heavy gauge, high efficiency, tin plated copper tip comes to temperature in 6 seconds. Balanced pistol-grip design with twin lights to illuminate work." The Manufacturer.
$42.23, ASIN: B00002N5LO Buy. (US only).
"Tough lightweight Cycolac level with three easily replaceable 360 vials-plumb, level, 450. Top reading feature. Magnetic strip on base holds fast to iron or steel. 1-5/8" x 23/32" body." The Manufacturer.
$8.49, ASIN: B00002X2FB Buy. (US only).
From: Thermos Nissan.
Sip-hole cover flips open for no-spill sipping, Fits most vehicle drink holders (2-1/2-inch bottom), Hand wash with mild detergent. Five-year warranty against defects
$31.99, ASIN: B00004S1CR Buy. (Currently US only).
From: Thermos Nissan.
Keeps beverages hot or cold for hours, Holds a generous 20 ounces, Wide base for table stability, Five-year warranty against defects...
$39.99, ASIN: B00004S1CW Buy. (Currently US only).
From: Thermos Nissan.
1.69-quart capacity, Unbreakable stainless-steel liner and outer shell, Superior insulation performance with patented vacuum technology, Five-year warranty.
"...A detachable, heavy-duty shoulder strap and a retractable handle that lies flat without rolling makes it easy to carry and store." DePaolo .
$53.99, ASIN: B00004S1D1 Buy. (Currently US only).
Features:
- Push button electric start included
- Six forward/ two reverse speed drive
- Single hand operation/Clutch lock system
- 8 hp engine with a dual PTO drive system
- Ergonomically designed control panel
$749.99, ASIN: B00004W4AC Buy.
Quality flashlights from Mag Instrument. These are constructed from aircraft grade aluminium (aluminum) alloy, have a Lexan front lens and O-rings to help keep water out. The high brightness beam is adjustable. A spare lamp can be found in the end-cap. They are manufactured in the the USA and stamped with a serial number. They range from tiny AAA models through AA, C and D, plus a rechargable system. Available in a range of colours (rechargable is black only), there is a gift suitable for almost anyone here! Click on the size you want, and then select the colour. (Currently US only).
This C-cell flashlight has a thinner barrel that the D cell units below, but are just as bright. Great if you have a smaller hand. $19.99, ASIN: B00002N6SK Buy.
Black, $18.99, ASIN: B00002N6SG Buy.
$20.99, ASIN: B00002N6SI Buy.
Purple, $10.99, ASIN: B00004SZ5Q Buy.
Contains: Pocket clip, Lanyard wrist strap with key ring, red, blue, and amber lenses and Lens holder. Suits the "AA" models.
"You bought the Mini Mag, now complete the set with this accessory package. You’ll get a pocket clip, a lanyard wrist strap with key ring, lens holder, and red, blue, and amber colored lenses for your “AA” Mini Maglite." The Manufacturer.
"Great for astronomy. The red lens is great for astronomy because it doesn't destroy your night-vision like a white lightbulb does. The other accessories are handy so you don't lose your flashlight when you are looking through your telescope." A home improvement enthusiast from NY, USA.
$3.99, ASIN: B00002ND52 Buy.
"This First Alert smoke alarm has a tamperproof lithium power-cell battery that will provide 10 years of protection. It features nonremovable batteries, low-battery indicator, 85-decibel alarm, and an alarm-silencing button. A special activation switch prevents mounting of unit unless it is activated. UL listed." "The Manufacturer".
$29.99, ASIN: B00002NBSF Buy.
"Dual ionization sensor for early detection of fast, flaming fires. Photoelectronic sensor for fast detection of smoldering fires." "The Manufacturer".
$27.99, ASIN: B00002NBSG Buy.
• Rugged construction for industrial use
• Xenon bulb produces extremely bright, uniform light
• Up to 3 hours of illumination per charge
• 120 degree pivoting head and 2-position hook
"Rugged construction makes this work light suitable for industrial use. Its Xenon bulb produces extremely bright, uniform light, and illuminates for up to three hours per charge. Other features include a 120-degree pivoting head and two-position hook." The Manufacturer.
$39.99, ASIN: B0000223I0 Buy.
$10.99 ASIN: B00002ND4K Buy.
• Heavy-duty flashlight, shatterproof lens
• Can withstand 5-foot drop
• Resists grease, oil, and gasoline
• Bright Krypton bulb
• D batteries included.
"This Eveready industrial flashlight is a heavy-duty light with a shatterproof lens. It resists grease, oil, and gasoline, and will withstand a 5-foot drop onto concrete. Features include a 200% brighter Krypton bulb, an on/off switch with bump guard, and a flip-up hanger ring. Comes with two Eveready D batteries." The Manufacturer.
$8.99, ASIN: B00002N9EA Buy.
Requires 2 "D" cells.
$8.79, ASIN: B00002ND4N Buy.
From Orgill
"The Nighthawk carbon monoxide alarm features continuous digital readout of carbon monoxide levels from 0 to 999 parts per million. It has a loud 85-decibel alarm, peak-level memory and display, a test/reset button, and a 9-volt battery for backup in case of a power outage. The alarm may be plugged directly into an AC outlet or used on a tabletop with an 8-foot AC cord (included). For residential use. UL listed." The Manufacturer.
$49.99, ASIN: B00002N86A Buy.
- 1500-watt thermostat fan heater
- Features hi-tech honeycomb ceramic disk element
- Ultra-compact
- Capable of 24-hour operation
- Tip-over switch and dust filter
$99.99 ASIN: B00004X16M Buy.
• Full 40-channel radio
• ETR frequency control and switchable automatic noise limiter
• Front microphone connector and stock microphone
• LED display; public address capability
• Quick-disconnect power cord and mounting bracket
Very small size and super-high performance mark the Midland 77-104XL, an advanced version of Midland's popular 77-104 mobile CB radio. Like its predecessor, the 77-104XL packs all the punch of larger, dash-mounted units but is more versatile and user-friendly.
Performance highlights include a "last channel used" memory circuit, public address capability, and full legal maximum power output with a generous reserve. Enhanced modulation results in outstanding talk power... Has switchable ANL...
"Not bad at all for the money. This is definitely a good find for 40 dollars. My friend has one in his 92 Ford Probe and it is great for talking to other people on long highway trips, finding out where there are road hazards from the truck drivers, and other misc. uses. It does not come with the antenna but for 40 dollars you can easily go and buy one for 20 bucks at a local radio shack or pick one up at a garage sale for 5 or so. This is not a top of the line unit, but for a regular cb user this is perfect. If you have ever considered getting a cb...get this one NOW! Hope to hear you on the air-waves." A radio user from Peoria, IL.
$39.99, ASIN: B00000K38Z Buy.
Features:
- Twin pack of Motorola T5100 radios
- Up to 2-mile range
- 14 FRS channels
- Stylish, compact design
- Battery meter indicator with audible low battery alert
- Backlit LCD display
$35.95, ASIN: B00005LPSB Buy.
Features:
- Rugged Family Radio Service (FRS) radio in Amazon green with 14 channels, 38 privacy codes, and VOX
- Outdoor gear package includes altimeter, barometer, and digital compass
- 8-channel weather radio with weather alert
- Includes clock with alarm and stopwatch with lap timer
- Runs on 3 AA alkaline batteries and is rechargeable ready with drop-in compatibility
$129.99, ASIN: B00004ZAO8 Buy.
"The Bel 980 is a terrific radar detector that surpasses most others in its class. We found its performance to be exceptional and its level of customization unbeatable. Out of the box, the Bel 980 is easy to set up and use. However, because of its complexity, you'll need to briefly read the documentation in order to program the unit the first time. After that, you won't have to reprogram the unit unless you set customization modes. You can set the Bel 980 to enter several different modes upon startup. The Standard mode displays several status messages when you power up the unit, while its Quick Start mode bypasses these messages. The Tutorial mode runs through a series of alerts and messages, which can be handy for learning the different alert tones and their associated messages. There's also a Programming mode, which allows you to configure the unit in a multitude of ways. Finally, a Voltage-Meter mode provides a constant display showing how much voltage the radar detector is receiving. This is useful for ensuring that the car's electrical system is producing the correct voltage (although in all modes the unit will alert you if it's receiving a level outside the normal power range). As with some other units in its class, the Bel 980's City mode decreases the alert level, rather than its sensitivity. In this mode, the unit generates an initial alert when it receives a faint signal; however, the Bel 980 then remains silent until it receives a signal strong enough to be of concern. In addition, you can customize the City mode to selectively disable certain radar bands. For example, if you know that the X band is not used within your municipality, you can turn that band off, preventing the unit from picking up common false signals from unrelated sources (such as perimeter alarms commonly found in banks and stores). The Beltronic 980's standard audio alerts are clear and easy to interpret. Each radar band triggers a unique tone, and the large, easy-to-read display indicates which band the detector is picking up. The alert pulses faster as the signal strength increases; a constant tone indicates that a radar signal is in very close proximity. The display also indicates the alert strength in nine different levels. During our testing, the laser alert sounded while we were parked near a neon sign, indicating to us that the Bel 980 may pick up some random signals. When the alarm is sounding, you can press the mute button to silence the alert for the duration of the signal. There is also a programmable setting to automatically mute any new signal that the Bel 980 receives after an initial alert. You can set the display to scroll through long messages (such as those given by the safety-alert system) or to display them word by word. The display also has several brightness modes--the highest level is easy to see, even in bright daylight. There's also a configurable dim mode and a dark display mode. Although the display on the Bel 980 is smaller than on some similar units, it's still easy to read and doesn't impede your ability to interpret alerts. The Bel 980 does have a few weak points (albeit minor ones). The mounting system is tricky to figure out; however, once you install it correctly, the bracket is sturdy and needs no further adjustments. Also, most other units we've tested use a rotary volume control, which makes adjustment easier. The Bel 980 uses a single button to adjust the volume to one of nine settings. Fortunately, once you set the proper volume level, the detector keeps the setting in its memory. Overall, we found the Beltronics 980 radar detector to be a very good value. Its rich feature set and programmability can handle changing driving conditions, and, with a few exceptions, this unit is easy to set up and use." Dan James.
Pros:
Exceptional midpriced unit
Easy to use
Highly customizable
Cons:
Tricky mounting system
"Saved by the BEL. After receiving three tickets in four months for speeding, I decided to purchase the Beltronics 980. After four months of using this product I have been saved from two near ticketed moments. The BEL detector both times gave me at least a 1 1/2 mile notice. The drawbacks are the tricky setup, you definitly need to have the manual for quick reference to setup. Also their are some false readings in City bandwidth. Overall, for a first detector this product far exceeded my expectations, and would recommend to anyone looking for the best detector in the mid-line price range." Anthony J Frabotta from Allen Park, MI.
"It really works! I have owned a lot of radar detectors, but none worked as good as the Bel 980.It's very reliable. And it talks to you which is pretty cool. I never spent this much on a detector before but it is worth every dime. Setting up the windshield mount was a little tricky, but not impossible. Dont waste your money on a cheaper unit. They wont work like this Bel 980." A driver from Orlando, FL.
"A great Detector. I found the Bel 980 very easy to set-up. I agree with the first review that it is worth the time to read the user manual briefly to become aquainted with all the features. It's takes less than 5 minutes. The false alarms are very few. If you travel the same route you can usually determine the cause, (Automatic Doors, etc.) and use the "Quiet" feature." An electronics fan from Rogers, AR.
"This is one great radar detector! This radar detector is truly top of the line. X, K, and Ka band range is amazing. False alerts are down to a minimum. It has even saved me from instant on radar, as the detector went off as the cop clocked a car a few miles ahead! This detector is worth the slightly higher cost, and Amazon's price is very competitive. Other detectors, even other Bels I've had in the past are way behind the Bel 980 which is in a league of its own!" Zeke Sanchez from El Paso, Texas.
$299.99 (Save $149.96!), ASIN: B00001O38D Buy.
Detects X, K, and superwide Ka bands as well as Safety Warning System (SWS) alerts
- Convenient cordless design
- 40 to 50 hours of use on 2 AA batteries
- Power-saving circuitry with low-battery indicator
- Programmable brightness, auto mute, and city mode
- Batteries: 2 AA batteries required. (included)
No more hassles with tangled power cords with the Escort Solo Cordless--just turn it on. This detector runs on two AA batteries for as long as 40 to 50 hours. The Solo Cordless provides long-range warning for all radar signals including X, K, and superwide Ka. New advanced four-bit analog-to-digital converter circuitry provides higher-resolution digital signal processing for even longer warning distances without more false alarms. Instead of a single laser sensor, the Solo Cordless has two. Mute and auto-mute features eliminate long-range nuisance signals. You can customize this detector with your preferred settings for power-on sequence, city-mode sensitivity, brightness, muting, and audio tones. The Solo Cordless comes with two batteries, a manual, and a quick-release adjustable windshield mount with extra suction cups. A 12-volt power converter cord is optional. The manufacturer offers a limited one-year warranty.
Note: Device is designed for 3-volt operation and requiers a power converter if you wish to operate it from 12 v.
$199.99, ASIN:B00004YMC9 Buy.
Laser/radar detector
- Digital text display shows more than 60 messages
- 360-degree Total Perimeter Protection and VG-2 Cloaking Technology
- Detects all radar (X, K, Superwideband Ka), laser, and safety radar systems, including Safety Warning System
- Alert priority and battery saver
"The Whistler DE1650 offers complete radar detection with an advanced, high-visibility digital text display with more than 60 messages. Special features include 360-degree Total Perimeter Protection, plus VG-2 Cloaking Technology that alerts you to the presence of VG-2 police surveillance and "conceals" your detector. The DE1650 detects X, K, and superwideband Ka radar, plus laser and safety radar systems, including the Safety Warning System, which increases safety by alerting motorists to upcoming road hazards such as accident sites. This detector features an alert priority that warns you of the greatest radar threat and a city mode that reduces the annoyance of false alerts typically encountered in urban driving areas. It also has a battery-saver feature that automatically shuts off your detector if you forget to. The unit comes with a one-year manufacturer's warranty.
$84.99, ASIN: B00004YJZF Buy.
More products from Whistler, Cobra, Beltronics, Escort.
- 8 MB RAM stores thousands of addresses, appointments, to-do items, memos, and more
- Includes HotSync cradle, snap cover, and leather slip case
- Fast synchronizing for your USB-equipped PC or Macintosh
- Fully compatible with thousands of Palm OS applications
- Supports optional expansion modules for MP3 player, pager, modem, GPS, video games, and more
The Handspring Visor Deluxe is the hot new handheld that runs the popular Palm OS, so it's compatible with thousands of existing applications. It's also expandable with Springboard modules that can add extra memory or a modem, or transform your Visor into an MP3 player, video game, GPS receiver, and more. Plus, its fast-synchronizing USB connection is compatible with both the PC and Macintosh.
Green, $249.00, ASIN: B00004TDMZ Buy.
Features:
- 300 channels
- 12 bands, including aircraft and 800 MHz
- Cloning capability
- Computer interface
- Tracks Motorola and EDACS trunked-radio systems
Uniden takes scanning to a new level with the hand-held Bearcat 245XLT. This powerful scanner is about the size of a cell phone and has a detachable antenna, making it great for travel and car use. Plus, the 245XLT can scan the standard 29 MHz to 956 MHz frequencies, now including Motorola and EDACS trunked system. Uniden's integrated SmartScanner technology makes it easy to get the 245XLT up and running. SmartScanner automatically scans the nearest 300 frequencies within a given zip code. To set this up, you need to connect the scanner to your PC using the included adapter and connect to the SmartScan database. However, because you are connecting to a 1-900 number, there is a 99-cent-per-minute charge for this service--so be careful how much time you spend downloading frequencies. You can also track multiple trunked and conventional channels at the same time, scan trunked frequencies, and apply a five-second trunk delay so you can hear both sides of the conversation when the trunked frequencies change.
"Great!! The Uniden BC245XLT is a scanning radio that many scanner enthusiasts would love to own. It is known as the Trunktracker II because of the ability it has to capture trunk radio frequencies. This is a recent scanner innovation. The programming was relatively easy for someone who has experience with scanners. Basic scanner functions were easy to see and accessible. The trunk tracking ability is useful and great to use, once you figure out which type of system you are tracking. The only problem found with this scanner was not even the scanner itself. The computer interface using the Smartscanner software seemed to work fine. However, the phone number, which you call to download scanner frequencies, would never complete the download. Having been a scanner enthusiast for over 10 years, I recommend this as an excellent scanner for the radio enthusiast. It has clear sound, and the trunk tracking abilities work well!! With a wide range of frequencies, you will be able to keep up with all the action in your neighborhood." Robert Franklin from Independence, Missouri.
"BEST SCANNER EVER Let me just say uniden has out done it this time. The best scanner has just arrived. BC 245XLT simply remarkable !!!!" A radio buff from Miami, FL.
$229.99, ASIN: B00000JBRT Order.
Wire antenna which extends to 23 feet, to improve the reception on many shortwave receivers, not just Sangean's. Come to think of it, I don't see any reason why ham's couldn't use it for "QRP" - lower power transmitting.JVB.
"A great antenna for travel and home use! I bought this antenna for my Grundig YB400PE, and it is great. Without it, the BBC World Service is audible, but filled with static. With the reel antenna out the window and clipped on a tree, it comes in clear and static-free, which is great for SW reception! Also, it's great for traveling, when you can't set up a 50' longwire out the back door. I can hear the BBC, RCI, Radio Moscow, and even Radio Australia from a hotel room (!) It's not a replacement for a massive long wire and grounding system, but for the price and ease of use it can't be beat." Jim J.
$9.99, ASIN:B000023VW2 Buy (US only).
Features:
- Global positioning system (GPS) receiver continuously tracks and uses up to 12 satellites
- Calculates current and average speed, time of sunrise and sunset, trip distance, and more
- Automatic track log--10 saved tracks let you retrace your path in both directions
- Tough waterproof case
- Runs up to 22 hours on 2 AA batteries
- Current speed, average speed, resettable maximum speed, trip timer, and trip distance.
- 2.1 by 1.1 inche, backlit display with 4 grey levels.
Batteries: 2 AA batteries required.
"A few years ago, when personal GPSs first became available, every geek from here to Poughkeepsie was enthralled about the possibility of always knowing exactly where on the planet they were. While the Garmin eTrex isn't the most feature-rich GPS out there, it will definitely come in handy if you don't want your next camping trip to end up like a scene from The Blair Witch Project. The eTrex is sort of a dumbed-down, rugged version of the company's more advanced eMap. Designed specifically for hiking, biking, and camping, the eTrex is one of the easiest-to-use GPS units available. It offers the ability to track up to 12 satellites so you never lose contact with one. The eTrex won't work inside--however, we don't anticipate that you'll get lost inside a building very often. Among the eTrex's notable features is its ability to calculate your current and average speed. We used the eTrex to determine the distance from work to home, and calculate how fast we were walking. This helped us gauge the average time it should take to get to work. This feature should really come in handy on extended hiking, camping, or cycling trips where planning your average speed and tracking the distance traveled is critical. Sticking with its theme of simplicity, the eTrex has only five buttons, making it easy to use with just one hand (It's specifically designed for the left hand.) Weighing only 5.3 ounces with the batteries installed, the eTrex is also ultralight, making it an easy addition to a daypack. The eTrex is also waterproof, so a little water shouldn't damage the unit. The eTrex can hold up to 500 user-created waypoints. And using Garmin's TracBack feature, it's easy to plot a course with up to 10 waypoints and follow it in both directions." Julian Strate.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Light
- Waterproof
The US government has currently turned off the errors on the civilian signal, so the accuracy will generally be around 5m, compared to up to 100m previously. Due to technical differences between the civilian and military signals, occasionally errors can still be slightly greater in the civilian than the military system. However, unless you are very lucky and find one at an auction of military surplus by a dopey, "friendly" government, you cannot get one of these "p(Y)" military units. 12 channels improves availability, especially in valleys (natural or man-made), or through trees. It is differential DGPS ready with RS-232 with NMEA 0183, RTCM 104 DGPS data format and Garmin proprietary interfaces. It has IPX7 water resistance - protected for 30 minutes at a depth of 1m. Stores 500 waypoints, 10 tracks with 2000 tracklog points and 1 route with 50 waypoints. It features Sun and moon rise, set and phase. JVB.
"Great value. I own several GPS receivers and have followed their evolution for the last few years. Garmin produces some of the easiest to use and best product in the GPS arena. The etrek is one of the smallest, very rugged, fast acquistion time, and even has an upload waypoint capability at that low price. The bright color makes it easy to spot in your backpack whether on an urban or mountain hike. I also use it as a backup for my marine gps." Mark Scheier from Los Angeles.
"Buy one... you won't regret it. I bought my Etrex as a gadget, but its now an indispensable part of my travels. It's well designed, functional and inexpensive. Having owned my Etrex for 6 months, I now find uses for it that I never envisaged, for example; finding my way back to a hotel in a strange town at 3 in the morning after a party. Having previously marked the position as we left the hotel, it steered us, effortlessly through a maze of suburban streets, right back to the door. I would point out though, that since it has no 'base map', you really need a programme such as Autoroute to input your desination, if you are going somewhere for the first time. Just jot down the Lat and Longtitude and key them in. A terrific piece of technology." Marc from Rome, Italy.
$114.94 (Save $30.77), ASIN:B00003WGP5 Buy (US only for now).
Features:
- GPS receiver with turn-by-turn navigation for major North American cities
- Automated voice prompts tell you when to turn
- Find the shortest and fastest routes with mapping software
- 16-color display with backlight for dim lighting
- Comes with 32 MB data card, USB data card programmer, and City Navigator software on CD-ROM.
Batteries: 6 AA batteries required. (included)
$999.99 (Save: $272.72), ASIN: B000058AKR Buy. Currently US only.
Sunnto USA, Inc.
Digital watch with thermometer, altimeter, barometer, compass and heart-rate monitor in one.
$299.99, ASIN: B000051SEQ Buy (Currently US only).
Features:
- Compress and store up 400 CDs or 5,000 songs (20 GB hard drive)
- Stream Internet radio stations from around the world right into your living room
- Single-tray CD drive; download music to and from your PC or portable MP3 player
- Create custom playlists using onscreen display
- Upgradable firmware via rear-panel modem
- Matches the size of standard stereo components
Very few products can be called revolutionary, but Compaq makes a strong case for calling its iPAQ Music Center just that. We all know the compact disc, and most are familiar with MP3, streaming Internet audio, and similar digital music formats. But the iPAQ Music Center is the first product to synthesize these elements for use in your living room, integrating to the fullest extent possible your downloadable and streaming music with your CD library and hi-fi system. The possibilities seem endless. A built-in CD tray and an impressively huge 20 GB hard drive let you burn and store around 400 CDs (or 5,000 songs) using MP3 compression (scalable from 96 to 320 Kbps), or around 40 CDs at full resolution. You can mix and match, too, reserving the best quality for your favorite music. In any case, storing your library on the MC-1 frees up your discs or tapes for car or portable use. Two USB ports simplify the transfer of music files from your PC, and you can choose from RCA analog inputs or either optical or coaxial digital-audio inputs to pull music from cassette, minidisc, portable CD, VHS, DVD, or even LP (if you have an outboard phono preamplifier). Any way you cut it, you'll have an incredible selection at your fingertips. The genius of the MC-1 is in the tools it offers to help organize your music. Chief among those is preloaded software called OpenGlobe, which handles everything from calling up artist and track info for your CDs to classifying and recommending Internet radio stations based on your preferences. There's a commercial element, as well: OpenGlobe will create "artist of the week" promotions based on your listening habits, and if you press the remote control's shopping-cart button while listening to an Internet-radio song, you'll have the option to buy that artist's music right then and there. (A credit card is required to shop, but not for general use.) Other conveniences include the ability to classify the music you've stored on the MC-1 in an infinite number of groups and playlists, any way you like: by year, by artist, by genre, by tempo... you name it. The MC-1 will call up artist, track, and genre information for nearly any CD you insert, viewable on either your TV or the unit's two-line, 20-character display. All stored music info is fully editable, whether you want to alter the automatic genre settings or enter disc details for albums not recognized by the Music Center. Of course, such a system can't work without an online lifeline; simply plugging a standard RJ-11 phone line into the unit's rear panel does the trick. This connection provides not only music data, but music itself--the MC-1 lets you enjoy streaming Internet radio from thousands of sites around the world. Use the preconfigured sites/stations, or add your own. You can use your existing Internet service provider, though be aware that the iPAQ Music Center does not currently support AOL or CompuServe. There's no additional monthly fee for the online access, and you can use dial-up access, cable, or DSL. A television is required for set-up and recommended for enhanced usage, but once you're up and running, your Music Center can function like any other component in your stereo or home theater--apart from the fact that none of those others can do what this baby does. (You'll need the TV for Internet radio access, as well.) As the MC-1 does not contain speakers or an amplifier, you'll need to connect it to an integrated amplifier or surround receiver, just as you would a CD or DVD player. Other iPAQ Music Center features include the ability to read CD-ROM/CD-RW discs of MP3 files recorded on your PC; a Web Sync button, which takes you to your own Internet homepage, letting you change playlists and system settings remotely; a search feature using an onscreen guide to find specific music tracks; and a full-function remote control, which you can use anywhere in the room to operate not only your iPAQ Music Center, but certain functions on your TV and receiver as well. The iPAQ Music Center will continually evolve, adding new features and services as they become available, such as S-Link CD changer control, a jack for which is already on the unit's back panel. Due to its upgradeable nature, Compaq warns that all hardware and software specifications are subject to change without notice. Compaq is going all-out with its customer service for this product: the one-year limited warranty includes out-of-warranty, fee-based assistance; Compaq Extra Mile Service and Support (toll-free and electronic access to technical support for hardware diagnosis); integrated self-help; and preventive-care assistance to maintain peak product performance. If a problem arises, mail the unit to Compaq and Compaq will fix and return, covering shipping charges both ways." Amazon.
$714.00, ASIN: B00005LABS Buy.
Stream CD-quality digital audio to any room with an available phone jack
- Connect to stereo system or use as a standalone receiver
- Sort music by artist, title, album or genre and create custom playlists
- Compatible with existing audio software like RealNetworks Jukebox and MusicMatch Jukebox
- Digital audio sent over your existing phone lines without interfering with your phone service -- also works with Ethernet network
- Includes Rio Digital Audio Connector PCI card for connecting to home phoneline network
The Rio Digital Audio Receiver streams music directly from your PC to any room in your house via existing phone lines through a home phoneline network (PNA) or via an Ethernet network. It works with your existing speakers and stereo setup to transfer MP3 and WMA files at up to 10 megabits per second without interrupting the regular use of your phone line. The receiver can simultaneously stream different music selections to different rooms wherever an additional receiver is located. The Rio Receiver features a large LCD display that shows song, album, and artist name, bit rate, and total playing time. Play functions include play, pause, stop, fast forward, and reverse within a song, and skipping backward and forward as well as repeat and random. The Rio Receiver also comes with a remote control. You can sort music by artist, title, album, or genre and then customize the Rio Receiver's interface to view your playlists. It is compatible with existing digital audio software such as RealNetworks Jukebox and MusicMatch Jukebox. Using a standard telephone line, the Rio Receiver operates on a separate frequency from your telephone or modem, allowing you to use your telephone line normally without interference from your Rio Receiver. The receiver requires connection to a home PNA from your PC, or use of the included Rio Digital Audio Connector PCI card installed into your PC. The Rio Receiver also supports 10 Mbps Ethernet. You can connect the receiver to your existing Ethernet hub with a standard Category 5 Ethernet cable, or directly to a host computer using an Ethernet crossover cable. The Rio Receiver requires a desktop PC running Windows 98, 98SE, 2000, or Me on an Intel Pentium MMX with 200 MHz processor at minimum. You can connect the Rio Receiver into a stereo system via RCA jack connection. It also has an integrated amplifier that allows the Rio Receiver to act as a stand-alone component using external speakers (either bare-wire bookshelf speakers or powered speakers with a 1/8-inch jack). Included with the receiver is the Rio Digital Audio Remote, a 15-foot standard phone cord, a 6-foot standard phone cord, a 6-foot RCA cable, and a software installation CD-ROM that includes the Audio Receiver Manager software. The optional Rio Digital Audio Connector PCI card is also available if you do not already have a home PNA." Amazon.
$173.80, ASIN: B000059YXO Buy.
Buy handsets and plans within the US, plus accessories internationally.
This brushed cotton twill cap has a soft bill and comes with a rear slide size adjuster. The cap is form-fitting, comfortable, and sports the distinguished Amazon.com logo embroidered on the front. Throw it on for a baseball game, a day in the yard, or just for fun. The cap also makes a wonderful gift at a great price. It's a terrific way to show off your favorite place to shop online!
"Best baseball cap I own. I bought this Amazon cap mainly as a way to have a cheap hat to wear around and not have to worry about losing. I ended up buying the best baseball-style cap I own. The bill is already curved, which is a welcome change from most caps with a flattened bill. The cap fits excellently on my rather small head and thus looks better than most of the caps I own. It does a superb job of shielding my eyes from the sun; it adjusts to fit almost any head and has yet to come close to blowing away. As an added bonus, it tells the world about my expensive Amazon.com addiction, so no more of those atrocious gifts that sit collecting dust." Evans Thompson from Dallas, TX, USA.
$4.99, ASIN: B000031XGS Buy.
Features:
Originally designed as a pocket-sized Soviet spy camera
Renders brilliant, super-saturated colors
Takes amazing night photos
Sturdy, stylish retro construction
Easy to use, takes normal 35mm film (2 rolls included).
"The unique Lomo opens up a whole new world of creative photography. Built as sturdy as a tank, the black retro-looking Lomo was originally designed by a top-secret military optics factory in the Soviet Union and is still made by hand in the St. Petersburg factory. It's easy to use, takes normal 35mm film, and gives you brilliant colors and superb night photos.
But the Lomo is more than just a cool camera--it's part of a worldwide community and a refreshingly new artistic movement, Lomography, that encourages even nonartists to be creative. The philosophy is to be quick, don't think, be open to your surroundings, absorb everything, and enjoy communicating. The Lomo craze started in the Viennese underground scene and rapidly expanded until all across the globe people became armed with Lomos, recording everything in bright colors and strange shapes. There are major Lomo exhibitions and events around the world. And famous folks such as David Byrne, The Verve, and Yassir Arafat own Lomos.
When we first heard of the Lomo, the hype and über-hipness made us quite skeptical. How could this little Soviet camera create such a stir? But we fell for the Lomo as soon as we got the package, which includes a little German hardbound book of Lomographs (plus the English translation) and two rolls of Lomo brand film--along with the "What the hell is Lomo?" instruction manual.
After we used the Lomo for a week or so, it became quite obvious why folks were raving about it--the Lomo allows for an unprecedented amount of creativity, and (most importantly) it makes photography inexpensive and easy.
The secret to the Lomo is its superb light meter and its exposure method--it exposes film for however long is necessary. This results in amazing night photographs, with glowing neon, streaking lights, ghostly people, and a real sense of motion. Daytime shots are equally interesting, filled with color and accentuated by the Lomo's slight distortion and tendency to darken photos towards the edges. The Lomo has no flash, so you won't get photos of people with red eyes and pasty skin tones or pictures with underexposed backgrounds. The Lomo lens has a coating that renders both day and night with incredible richness and brilliance. Our skies were a deep blue, our yellows scintillating, and our night scenes alive with the colors of city lights. (Click on the "More Pictures" link [on the Amazon site] to see sample photos that were taken with the Lomo.)
Another major advantage to the camera is that the Lomo works best with cheap 100-speed 35mm film, which is readily available anywhere and is easy to process. ISO 100 film is actually best at capturing brilliant colors and enhances the Lomo's natural tendency for producing color-rich photos.
Most importantly, the Lomo is wonderfully simple to use--the only adjustments you have to make are to set the film speed and to set the focus lever (marked with four distances from 0.8 meters to infinity). All you do is point the Lomo, set the distance, press the button, and the camera decides how long to expose the picture.
The viewfinder and lens open at the same time with a single lever--a good design that makes it impossible to mistakenly leave the lens cover on. You can easily slip the Lomo into your pocket without worrying about a case. Film loading, advance, and rewind are all manual--after using these features once, you'll get the hang of loading film quickly. The distance lever is also self-explanatory, and the distance markings show up inside the viewfinder as well.
If you want a modern point-and-shoot with autofocus, auto film winding, a zoom lens, and a flash, the Lomo is not for you. You won't get perfect, always-sharp photos with the Lomo, and many of your pictures will be blurred, streaked, and bizarre looking. But that's the whole point--with the Lomo, you'll get striking, unique, artistic results. You probably can
achieve these results with a normal SLR camera, but it would require much more work and money.
Overall, we felt the Lomo lived up to its global reputation. With its simplicity, inexpensiveness, and striking results, it's an easy-to-use tool for creative fun photography." Holly Blumenthal.
- Yields brilliant supersaturated colors
- Takes amazing night photos
- Sturdy, stylish retro construction
- Uses normal 35mm film
- Easy to use
"I have always had these ideas for night-time photos -- street scenes, snow scenes, photos in the movie theater. The night landscape or just a dark room can afford stunning images, yet they are images that are excessively difficult to capture on film with amateur equipment. Flash photography is often ruinous -- red eyes, oddly colored flesh, black background." But I received the most wonderful gift this holiday season: a toy. Suddenly
the prospect of night-time photography is not so daunting or impregnable. The Lomo is an incredible device. In 1984, a top-secret military optics factory in the Soviet Union (Leningádskoje Optiko Mechanitschéskoje Objediniénie --LOMO) designed a pocket-size spy camera. As the Cold War ended and the Soviet Union collapsed, the camera somewhat disappeared from existence. But then, in 1991, an Austrian student living in Prague, Matthias Fiegl, purchased an old Lomo in an antique shop and suddenly, three years later, the Lomo camera is in such high demand that students in Prague convinced St. Petersburg associates to reopen the factory which had shut down in 1989. Today, nearly 70,000 people own a Lomo and there are 60 "Lomo Embassies" all over the world. This little black wonder fits in the palm of your hand. Lomo literature tells its owner to take it with her everywhere. And though it looks like a miniature manual Nikon without the zoom lens, it does something quite different. The shutter on a Lomo acts much like the B-setting on the shutter speed wheel of a manual camera. To accommodate dark conditions, the shutter stays open for as long as it is necessary in order to fully expose the film, no flash necessary. In very dark settings, the shutter may stay open for as long as three or four minutes. The only setting that the photographer alters is the distance lever. With the shutter open for this length of time the hand, or the subject is bound to move and the Lomo essentially captures that movement. The result is a gorgeous time lapse effect. Because there is no flash, the processed image shows not just the subject, but the background as well. Furthermore, by leaving the shutter open for the extended period of time, the film picks up hues and tones undetectable to the naked eye. For example, I took a picture of a friend's head on the side of a suburban street in the middle of the night. The shutter remained open for nearly three minutes. I assumed that the photo would not turn out, but instead the result was a beautiful hazy image in which the glare of the street lights swim into the hazy image of his face. The film had picked up the strangest colors in the background -- a green hue on the sidewalk, a deep blue in the street and violet in the midnight sky. This camera is not just good for nighttime photography, however. Used in the daylight, Lomo captures brilliant color. Reds are redder, blues, yes, are bluer. The colors look almost artificial or computer- enhanced -- even more vivid than they are in actuality. And the camera takes regular 35 mm, 100 speed film. In fact, 100-speed film, though it is the cheapest, is really the best choice because its chemical make-up is optimal for capturing color. What is perhaps most incredible about this camera, though, is that it is in relative economic reach. The camera currently sells for about 160 dollars while the next closest product that could produce similar results costs thousands. The investment is well worth the expense. Maybe even better is the special old camera/grandma's basement smell that each camera has. Each roll of film is a complete surprise. I have taken numerous photos in excessively dark locations where I seriously doubted Lomo's ability -- the movie theater, for instance. I shot several photos of myself while in the theater. The red curtains on the wall to the side of me truly look like an oil painting. The haze of my head movement gives the photo a bizarre artistic appearance." Meghann Curtis, A&E Editor, The Miscellany News, Vassar College.
Newgun. This camera is just simply awesome. the whole "lomography" scheme may seem a
bit facist but this camera IS perfect for taking great impressionistic snapshots on the fly. The camera itself is tiny too so it fits in your bag, pocket, jacket, whatever." Brian from Chicago, IL, United States.
"Cult object: some deprogramming required. This little Lomo is like another cult classic, the VW Beetle, in a number of ways: it's primitive, and of questionable dollar value, but does the job in spite of its' short-comings. Its' popularity is directly related to its archaic simplicity. Buying one is more akin to joining a hip alternative club than purchasing a consumer product. Don't even try to compare it to more common Canon Sure Shots or Olympus Stylus'. The Lomo is a retro-tech Soviet-era copy of a 1970's Japanese compact, spiffed up with some funky new graphics. Think of it as the contrarian's camera. No autofocus, no built-in flash. On the other hand, simplicity is its virtue. The 4-zone scale-focusing, relatively fast f/2.8 lens make it easy to get grab shots in less than ideal light. The wideangle focal length provides enough depth-of-field for all but the most eggrarious distance miscalulations. And sharpness wise, the lens, like many other Russian cameras, is really quite good. Having an accessory flash is something the Lomo user will want, but since it isn't built-in, the dreaded red-eye effect will never be a problem. It'll
also encourage the user to take more atmospheric and discrete available light photos. Build quality on earlier Lomo cameras were a roll of the dice. The more recent cameras have benefitted from improved quality control, but don't expect fit and finish to equal exports from Japan." Matthew Phillips from Richmond, Virginia/
"Yes, Believe the Hype! The lomo is a genuine piece of functioning art. Not only does it look "retro cool" its optics are something I have never encountered. Include the awesome ability to shoot colorful and stunning night photos - the lomo is awesome. Besides, go to lomo.com an explore the huge community of lomo users that don't go anywhere without their camera." A customer from Chicago, IL.
$149.99 ASIN: B00004S9WR Buy.
More, designed for children below.
Showcase your pictures in this colorful frame
Hot fuchsia SPLAT! holds your favorite pics
Perfect for i-zone size prints and stickers
Magnetic backing for metal surfaces
Fresh look for a fun, decorative keepsake in your room
This cool little magnetic frame is the perfect size for your tiny Polaroid i-zone prints. You can use color film for mini prints or cool sticker film. This is the perfect accessory to Polaroid's latest "go everywhere, must- have item." Choose from a variety of different frames. You can collect, trade, and wear these neat little photo holders--or use them as calling cards, put them on your desk, or stick in lockers. But hey, this is more than fun; the Polaroid i-zone accessory set has style and colors to mix and match with your i-zone camera.
Pink $3.99, ASIN:B000050NPC Buy,
Purple $3.99, ASIN:B000050NPD Buy.
A film about early cameras, photography and Movies.
US Rating: NR
NTSC VHS videocassette, Colour and B&W, HiFi Sound, $17.99, ASIN: 6302280753 Buy.
From Wild Planet From Kalimar Inc. From Kalimar Inc. From Lights, Camera, Interaction Yat Ming by Jill Dubin. by Chaya Burstein, Chaya Burnstein Four Different Designs on Four 18'X24' Sheets With Four Matching Gift Cards by Jill Dubin by Jill Dubin by Jill Dubin With 52 Reusable Peel-And-Apply Stickers by Jill Dubin by Jill Dubin by Jill Dubin by Lise Caldwell, Jill Dubin (Illustrator) by Jill Dubin by Jill Dubin From University Games. From Park & Sun Sports From Planet Toys
Surprise your friends with "hidden" camera built into your sunglasses. Auto-focus, mini camera and easy loading 110 film. Flip-down viewfinder makes it easy to frame your subject. Takes pictures outdoors in daylight conditions. Lenses have UV protecion and are impact resistant. Includes roll of 110 film.
$14.99, ASIN: B00000J42B Buy. Barbie 35mm Flash 3-piece Set
35mm flash camera, photo album, 35mm color film (12 exp.)
"Young photographers will be ready for Barbie fashion shoots when they get this hot pink 35mm Barbie flash camera. A heart-shaped frame on the front features a picture of Barbie herself, the shutter button is a jewel-like heart, and the camera strap is a chain of pink pearls. All this adds up to a very special gift. The set includes the camera, a 12-exposure roll of film, a Barbie photo album to store favorite snapshots in, and concise directions. For added safety, the battery and film compartment are difficult to open accidentally. A shutter cover protects the lens from rough play and makes this Barbie point-and-shoot a durable camera. Children will not only enjoy taking snapshots, they'll like creating an album of favorite pictures to enjoy in the future." Lee Strucker.
Requires 1 "AA" cell.
$14.99, ASIN: B00001TQ3J Buy. (Currently US only).Looney Tunes Talking Flash Camera Kit: Taz
Manufacturer's recommended age: 3 years and up
Requires 1 "AA" cell.
"This talking flash camera, featuring the popular Looney Tunes character Taz, has plenty of kid appeal. It comes with a pack of easy-to-load 110 film and features an extra large viewfinder, a focus-free lens, and a flash-ready light, making it easy for kids to take their own full-size color pictures, indoors or out. Taz, the Tasmanian devil, graces the front of the camera, his sharp teeth and panting tongue framing the lens. Press the animation button--easily distinguishable from the shutter button--and Taz's wild eyes glow red as he growls one of three different phrases, including the admonition, Okay buddy, stick out your tongue! Along with each phrase, Taz utters a sample of impressively unintelligible Tasmanian devil-speak. The Taz camera comes with a little photo album that holds up to 24 4-by-6-inch photos. One AA battery is required (not included)." Elisabeth Fredrickson.
Kit includes: talking flash camera, photo album and 110 color film.
"My sons first Camera. For a first timer, my three year old son was so excited to use this camera. He loved hearing the Taz speak when he pressed one button and the flash and picture be taken with the other. I believe this to be a great gift for a first camera because the viewfinder is big enough for a young person to look through to see his image he wants to take a picture of. Their is no focasing, and it is an easy film to install. I suggest this for a 3-whatever age person. The Taz is real cute when he speaks." A toy enthusiast from Illinois.
$19.99, ASIN: B00001TQ3P Buy.Noah's Ark Peg Puzzle
Manufacturer's recommended age: 24 months - 5 years
"The animals are marching two by two -- camels and tigers and kangaroos! In this beautifully crafted wooden peg puzzle, Noah and his wife are unloading their ark. The 8.5-by-12-inch puzzle has a natural wood background tray with rounded edges and an attractive laminated picture of the ark surrounded by the pairs of animals. Noah and his wife stand in front and a rainbow arches over the top. There are nine large removable pieces, each with a little red peg to make it easier for little fingers to lift the pieces out of the frame. The same pictures that are on the pieces are illustrated on the board, making it easy for little ones to match things up when reassembling the puzzle. The puzzle pieces can be also be assembled outside the frame." Marcie Bovetz.
$9.99, ASIN: B00004R8L7 Buy. (Currently US only).1/24 Scale Silver Range Rover RV 10 Urban 4WD
"Once upon a time, the mighty Range Rover was an indestructible metal box of an off-road vehicle that roamed the African Serengeti and the Australian outback. The only time you'd catch a glimpse of these once-rare British vehicles was on exotic television specials. Then came the huge popularity of the SUV, and this country cousin of a vehicle got a makeover for the city and hit the big time. Here in all its glory is the Range Rover RV Urban 4WD. The detailed die-cast metal 1:24 scale replica features front doors that open, free-rolling wheels, and movable seat backs. (Warning: Choking Hazard--small parts. Not for toddlers.)" Chris Livesay.
$4.99, ASIN: B00000JT0D Buy.Hebrew Alphabet Stickers
A Dover Little Activity Books Book.
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Also great for older learners of Hebrew, and younger childeren. Buy a few!
Each of the 22 letters contains a colourful drawing of something begining with that letter. The inside back cover features a table of each character, it's name, the word for the item on the sticker in "pointed" Hebrew, with its pronunciation and translation in English. JVB.
Paperback, $1.00 ISBN 0486273229 Buy.Hebrew Alphabet Coloring Book
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback, $2.95 ISBN 048625089X Buy.Chanukah Giftwrap Paper
by Jill Dubin
Accessory, $2.95 ISBN 0486271587 Buy.Chanukah
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback sticker book, $1.00 ISBN: 0486271544 Buy.Color-Your-Own Chanukah Postcards
Postcards, $1.00 ISBN 0486271595 Buy.Chanukah Punch-Out Window Decorations
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback, $3.95 ISBN 0486281078 Buy.Create Your Own Noah's Ark Sticker Picture
by Jill Dubin
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback, $3.50 ISBN 0486279219 Buy.A B C
From the Little Bitties Series
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
20 pages, Miniature edition, Hardcover, $3.50 ISBN 0812062663 Buy.Zoo ABC Stickers
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback, $1.00 ISBN 0486293130 Buy.Jewish Activity Book
Reading level: Ages 4-8
More than 40 different puzzles--illustrated with symbols of the Jewish faith--encourage seekers to find hidden objects, follow dots, tell what's wrong with pictures, circle look-alikes, and more. Captions explain objectives and solutions are included.
64 pages, Paperback, $1.00 ISBN 0486272575 Buy.God's Animal Friends
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Paperback, $1.69 ISBN 0784708754 Buy.Kids at Play Stickers
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback, $1.00 ISBN 0486287912 Buy.Little Hebrew Alphabet
Reading level: Ages 4-8
64 pages, Accessory, $1.00 ISBN 0486270181 Buy.Amazon.com Bookology Game
Recommended age: 12 years and up
$24.99, ASIN: B00000J6Y3 Buy.Croquet Tournament Set
$48.99, ASIN: B00004SYN2 Buy. (Currently US only).Star Blazer Pinball
$149.95 ASIN: B00003GO0F Buy. (Currently US only).Chariots of Fire
NTSC VHS videocassette with closed-captions, $17.99, ASIN: 6300271498 Buy.
by Clarence Edward Noble Macartney
150 pages, Paperback, $10.99 ISBN 082543274X Order.
1999
Rated: PG (USA)
Starring: Harry Connick Jr., Eli Marienthal, et al.
Director: Brad Bird
"This gentle reworking of Ted Hughes's 1968 novella was the unseen gem of 1999. Hogarth, a young boy who lives in the Maine woods during the cold war, befriends a giant robot. As with E.T., the iron giant is a misunderstood outsider who becomes a child's best friend, and Hogarth does his best to hide the massive figure from his mom (voiced by Jennifer Aniston) and the local scrap-yard beatnik (Harry Connick Jr.). Soon the suspicions of neighbors and a government agent (Christopher McDonald) spell trouble. With no songs, no sidekicks, and no cheap ending, The Iron Giant is a refreshing change-- like an off-Broadway production compared to the glitz of Disney's annual animated extravaganzas. Director Brad Bird may have Family Dog and The Simpsons to his credit, but this film doesn't have that brand of scatological humor. As with the best family entertainments, there are gags that adults will howl at while the kids are watching something else (see Bird's interpretation of cold war propaganda). And the star is one cool piece of animated magic. Voiced by Vin Diesel (Saving Private Ryan's hulking Private Caparzo) and filled with more gadgets than a Swiss army knife, the giant is a grand thing to behold. And like another famous cinema tin man, our hero--and the movie--has heart. Superb entertainment for ages 5 and up." Doug Thomas.
"Striking and original animated feature gently pokes fun of 1950s paranoia (and sci-fi movies), as a boy befriends a huge robotic creature from outer space. That writer-director Bird and his animators can bring such feeling to a metallic character is just one of this film's triumphs. Based on the book The Iron Man by Ted Hughes." Leonard Maltin's Movie & Video Guide.
"Kids like it, parents love it. The Iron Giant elicited waves of emotions ranging from sadness to fear with excitement throughout. The animation is exceptional and the story line could satisfy ages from 3 to 103. Highly recommended." A viewer from Memphis, TN.
"Deserves your attention., This movie had the kiss of death: an animation feature film *not* made by Disney. It deserved far more attention than it got. Part a magical children's story, part glimpse of 1950s anti-communist hysteria, this movie is wonderfully rendered, especially in terms of animation, characterization and dialogue. This movie is funny and far more meaningful than the usual tripe Disney dishes out these days." James E. Bow from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada.
"Iron Giant This is by far the most entertaining animated film ever made. The story was very touching with out being chessy or stupid like other crappy animated movies. Even though there is some mild profanity parents should still let their kids view it. (If they are 8+) I was some what suprised that I had a tear or two run down my face at the end of the movie since I'm 16 and wasn't really interested in watching it in the first place. One of very few animated films I actually like. The action around the end absolutely rocked and the characters were believeable and just simply great. I truly hope for a sequel. Buy The Iron Giant." "Da Freak" from "Pleasure World".
DVD includes Making-Of Documentary (22 min.) and Music Video: Cha-Hua-Hua by Eddie Platt.
Region 1 DVD, Full-screen and widescreen anamorphic formats, Closed-captioned, Dolby $19.98 ASIN: B000028U3R Buy.
NTSC Colour VHS Videocassette, Closed-captioned, Dolby, $20.99 ASIN: B000028U3S Buy.
NTSC Colour VHS Videocassette, Closed-captioned, Widescreen, $19.97 ASIN: B00002970I Buy.
The Original 1961 animation.
"...Telling the story from the dogs' point of view is a clever conceit, a fundamental flaw of the live-action remake." Bill Desowitz.
Region 1 DVD $29.99 ASIN: B00001QEE3 Buy.
by Dayal Kaur Khalsa
Reading level: Ages 4-8
"The exploits of Julian, the large farm dog, will appeal to young listeners who dote on hearing amusing reminiscences." Review, p. 761. The Horn Book, Inc.
24 pages, Paperback, $9.99 ISBN 0887765130 Buy.
Tekky Toys
Amazon.com recommended age: 12 years and up
Batteries: 2 AA batteries required. (included)
"There must be somebody in your life who would appreciate this--but perhaps you hope there isn't. Uncle Fred, a 7-inch-tall doll, sits in his comfy chair with a dimwitted expression on his face and one finger extended. If you give in to temptation and pull that finger, Fred lets rip with a sound that's commonly associated with eating three portions of Aunt Edna's boiled cabbage and beans. The escaping toot is accompanied by 1 of 10 samples of Fred's razor wit, including such gems as "Mmmm ... fruity" and "Who stepped on a duck?" Fred even has a "silent but deadly" in his repertoire. Please, no complaints that this toy is in bad taste. That's the idea." Richard Farr.
"This is one disgustingly cool toy. Perfect for Dad or an Uncle. Fred is a daring plush toy that brings back the nostalgia of being a kid again. Remember when your dad or uncle would say: "Hey, pull my finger!" And worse yet, remeber what would happen... Everybody has a "Fred" in their family. You know the guy. After every meal and family party, he's the one sprawled out in the easy chair, daring everyone and anyone who comes near him to "pull it." He can 'let one rip' on command - and boy is he proud of it! And, he always has something funny to say (or so he thinks).Tekky toys has immortalized this character in a toy, a 6" plush doll that sits in a lime-green easy chair. Grab his finger and pull, you'll laugh yourself silly as Fred lets one loose. He even shakes! Then, he finishes his command performance with any one of 10 hilarious phrases." The Manufacturer.
"Utterly tasteless --- AND WONDERFUL! I bought this as a gift for my stepfather, and he loved it! Fred is quite at home in his recliner, happily emitting noises from his chair cushion at your request. I didn't realize it when I bought it, but Fred "rattles" once you pull his finger. So not only does he make a nasty sound, he also moves the chair with his "power." It's a really cute toy, and it makes a great gag gift. One tug on Fred's flatulent finger and you'll be hooked!" "Nifferoo" from Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.
"Arright, Fred is rude.. but it's a good tension breaker. Let me first say: This really isn't a toy for kids. Any kid would get sick of it after one day of noises. However, in the hands of an adult: it's funny. I took Fred to work and he sits on my desk. He bekons those who enter to pull his finger. It's quite hilarous to see people's reactions to his... sounds. He's also great for tense conference calls. (That is, if your co-workers have senses of humor!)" Biggie-e" from San Francsico, CA.
"FUN AND FUNNY It helps me get through my stress with a laugh." Dave from Ridgefield, CT, USA.
"MMMmmm - Fruity! Old Fred rumbles the chair with all but his SBD (need I explain?) reports. Little and big kids will get hours of enjoyment out of this. It puts a smile on all but the prudiest faces. A fun game is "Crepitation Roulette." Write the different phrases Fred blurts out on slips of paper and put them in a hat. Draw one out and pass Fred around. The first person to match the slip after pulling Fred's finger gets "blown away." Draw again and continue until only one "finger puller" is left - the "King" (or Queen) of Crepitation! A good companion read is "[book]" by Dr. Benjamin Bart. It is listed on Amazon although it is occasionally out of stock (sniff, sniff). Look it up!" Alex Leslie from Disagreeable Effluvia, Kansas, USA.
$16.99 ASIN B00001QHWA Buy.
by Toy Biz
Batteries: 3 AA batteries required.
Fun toy for even adults! (I'm 32.) I played this game with my nephew who is 11 years old. It is very similar to playing hot potato. Rotten Egg contains a built-in recorder that can save each player's name. (I'm not certain how many names it can record.) You start the game by handing it to a player. When Rotten Egg says another player's name, you toss it quickly to that player. You lose if you catch the egg as it is saying "Rotten Egg!" I was surprised by how durable this toy really is! We were slamming it against furniture and hitting the floor with it, and it never hiccupped once! This toy is really good for building quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination." A toy enthusiast from Frankfort, KY.
$4.98 ASIN: B00000JIJV Buy.
Features:
DVD player and 4-head VCR compatible with all disc and tape media
Dolby Digital/DTS compatible
Component, composite, and S-video outputs
Luminescent joystick remote operates both DVD and VCR functions
"Samsung's DVD-V1000 is designed for maximum versatility and convenience. This two-in-one unit adds both a DVD player and a VCR to your entertainment system in the same shelf space as a single component. Since the two players share a single chassis, hookup to your television requires only a single component-, composite-, or S-video connection... The DVD-V1000 includes two sets of composite-video outputs (perfect for linking to a second TV in another room), one top-of-the-line set of component-video outputs, and one set of S-video outputs. For audio connections, the unit offers one set each of Dolby Digital- and DTS-compatible optical and coaxial digital-audio outputs (cables not included) as well as two sets of stereo analog outputs..."
"What more could you ask for in a VCR/DVD combo? I don't know too much about technology aside from computers, and I was perfectly content with the DVD player on my computer, but the price was too sweet for a combo. I was able to set it up in under ten minutes, and use is a snap! Maybe someone with tech experience could add something about that aspect, but don't worry about it being too complicated, because this is one great combo!" Sarah from New Jersey.
$299.99, ASIN: B00005LP56 Buy.
Sleek, lightweight portable DVD-video players.
Plays DVD, Video CD, and CD discs,
Rechargeable battery pack
Optical digital connection for DTS and Dolby Digital surround sound output.
Can also be used as a portable monitor for other video sources. JVB.
DVD-LV70, 7-inch widescreen LCD monitor, $899.99, ASIN: B00005AY7P Buy,
DVD-LV60, 5.8-inch widescreen LCD monitor, ASIN: B00005AY7G Buy.
When IBM first designed a desktop computer, the IBM PC, they contracted the then small Micro Soft to provide "PC-DOS" - the disk operating system for the computer (which MS bought from someone else, rather than coding themselves). MS later supplied the product to clone makers, calling it MS-DOS. This continued through the era of the IBM XT and AT systems. MS-DOS reached version 6.22. Competing DOSs include DR-DOS by Digital Reasearch, which was bought by Novell, and IBM's PC-DOS, now at version 7.0.
Some time later, IBM produced the PS/2 (Personal System /2), and at around the same time contracted Microsoft to write OS/2 (Operating System /2) as a competitor to DOS. OS/2, up to version 1.3 could be considered a Microsoft/IBM joint product.
In the mean time, Microsoft produced the Windows GUI (Grahical User Interface), based on eariler sytems by Xerox and Apple and the X-Windows UNIX system. As a GUI add-on to DOS, Windows reached version 3.1, later adding Win32S 32 bit support.
Neither DOS nor Windows are operating systems, in that they do not fully manage the computer in the way OS/2 does. DOS looks after disks and input/output (I/O), while Windows provides a graphical interface.
However, a "divorce" occured between Microsoft and IBM, and the planned OS/2 version 1.7 release was cancelled as a result. This became the first version of Windows NT, the NT standing for either New Technology or Network Technology. It came in Server and Workstation versions. Windows NT, up to version 3.51 included support for OS/2 1.3 command line programs, and some 2.x ones, plus the OS/2 file system. In fact, running the OS/2 32 bit version of a program is preferable to running the 16 bit DOS version, which requires the system to start a 16 bit virtual machine. It had a Windows 3.1 like interface. Like OS/2, NT can be considered to be a true operating system.
In the mean time, IBM released OS/2 2.0 which included support for Windows 3.0 programs, as well as DOS and OS/2 programs. OS/2 is now at version 4.0, known as OS2 Warp 4, a reference to its speed, and has support great support for DOS programs, including games, and Windows programs, including Win32S. OS/2 uses a powerful Presentation Manager Object Oriented graphical interface, in addition to OS/2 and DOS command lines, and if you wish, the WinOS/2 interface. Windows running under OS/2 is legally termed WinOS/2. Many "mission critical" sytemss, such as airline reservations and banking make extensive use of OS/2, due to its reliability. ATMs often run OS/2, although the user doesn't see the PM interface.
Windows released Windows 95, which progressed through several releases, and then Windows 98. Microsoft has finally admitted that these products really do run as a GUI on top of a DOS. Since the release of Win 95, people have actually been using this "DOS 7.0" (as MSD reports it) and a very good stand-alone DOS. This underlying DOS, and the ability to restart in DOS mode means DOS games will run under it.
At the time they released '95, microsoft also released Windows NT 4.0. This deleted a lot of the OS/2 support, and moved to a '95 like interface.
In 2000, Microsoft released Windows 2000 which is "Built on NT Technology". This product, again is a true operating system, and does not use an underlying DOS. While it is probably the best Microsoft product for a long time for running business and "serious" home applications, it does lack support for some DOS action games, and certain music programs. There is a patch to improve game play in it.
However, in the last few years a range of alternative operating systems have matured. The most famous in Linux. Linux is essentially a free product. However, many companies market it, gathering the various components together, testing them, assembling user friendly installation CD-ROMs and providing paper documentation, and charging for this service and the media (eg, CD-ROM) the system comes on. The most famous would be Red Hat.
Linux was based on UNIX, and there are also a number of UNIXs available for the PC, such as SCO UNIX. Sun has Solaris for PC, which is also the system for their powerful Sun computers. BeOS is another powerful alternative, and basically is everthing OS/2 was promised to be. Free BSD is yet another of these systems.
From IBM
"First class operating system choice. Version 4 is still more stable and reliable than the previous version. Easy install with a nice GUI, this fine OS is Internet-ready and of course, LAN-ready. It talks with MACS, Unixes, Netware and Windows without a problem. If you need Windows 3.x emulation, there is a specific environment for this application, without GPF errors of course. IBM makes periodic releases of collections of fixes (a.k.a Fixpacks) through Internet for free." Cesar Goldkorn from Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
CD-ROM, $246.99, ASIN: B00002S8D6 Buy. (Currently US only).
From IBM
CD-ROM and 3.5" disk, $155.99 ASIN: B00002S8D7 Buy. (Currently US only).
From: Sun Microsystems
A multiplatform office suite, StarOffice 5.2 software is full-featured and interoperable with Microsoft Office. The StarOffice suite has all the functionality and power you expect in an easy-to-use, integrated desktop environment. It combines best-of-breed core components with a complete set of complementary tools, so you can take on any job and get the results you want. The package includes: StarOffice Draw, StarOffice Mail and Discussion, Internet Browser, StarOffice Writer, and more.
"Star Word Processor. I LIke star better than microsoft premium 2000. It does not have microsoft outlook taking charge of your computer." Aubrey Faucett from USA.
"Long Live Competition..." Jorge C Campos Alvarez from Mexico City, Mexico.
"Look out MS Office. With its price, interoperablility with MS office, and platform independence - you can't beat this product. Now I can work on documents at work, and continue them at home on Linux. You need a day to get accustomed to the environment, but its easy sailing thereafter." Rick from Boston.
"Star Office shines bright! Since I first got Star Office 5.1 I have been awaiting the development of Star Office 5.2. My wait was well worth it. 5.2 is more user friendly than it's previous version. I installed it on Red Hat 6.1 and it went right in without any problems. I opened it up and was able to immediately go to work developing a word document. The menu's are laid out well and it's easy to find all the text editing features. (I have had one problem finding out how to change the default margins - but that will come with a bit more investigation) Along with a great word processor is a whole suite of other great things such as the spread sheet, presentation program and scheduler. Star Office has made a great office suite, for very little money and it works on Linux, Windows, Sun Sparc and Unix. Who else can make that claim! There's now no reason not to dump that high priced office product sitting on your windows machine for Star Office at a fantastic price. And yes, it imports and exports to MS Word documents. Robert Koch from California.
CD-ROM, $39.99, ASIN: B00004U9LR Buy. (Currently US only).
From: Microsoft
• Successor to Windows NT Workstation--for Windows 95 or 98
• Robust, highly secure operating system for corporate, small-business, and mobile use
• Simpler, more intelligent interface reduces desktop clutter and adapts to your usage patterns
• Wizard-driven configuration and setup with improved peripheral support
• Easier deployment options and improved user management
CD-ROM, $243.95, ASIN: B00003JAU7 Buy.
From: Individual Software
Platform: Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000
CD-ROM, $25.99, ASIN: B00004R7RJ Buy.
From: DataViz
Platform: Windows from 3.x to 2000
• Open Macintosh Files and Disks in Windows instantly
• Now works with Windows 2000
• Read, write, and format Macintosh disks on your PC
• Read Mac CD-ROMs
• Supports Zip, Jaz, SyQuest, and all other SCSI, IDE, and parallel-port devices
CD-ROM, $48.99, ASIN: B00002S7EB Buy. (Currently US only).
From: Corel
Platform: Windows 3.x
• Intuitive word processing
• Powerful spreadsheets
• Captivating presentations
• Relational database
• Multiproject management tools
Corel WordPerfect Suite 7 for Windows 3.1x redefines the office suite and fits the way you work today. World-class applications, graphics power, refined file-management tools, and powerful features empower your business communications, increase your productivity, and optimize workgroup collaboration. Amazing Internet connectivity lets you link, read, and create files for the Net. Take advantage of software innovation and discover why Corel WordPerfect Suite 7 for Windows 3.1x is a smart choice for any office task.
"The best office suite for Windows 3.1. I own two old computers that still work great but are not powerful enough to run Windows 95/98. With WordPerfect Suite 7 there is a great and pretty much up-to-date office suite available that runs smoothly on these legacy systems. Best of all: WordPerfect has notchanged its file format since version 6. So all the files you create with this product can be loaded, edited, and saved in other versions of WordPerfect (6,7,8,9) on Windows or Linux without (!) a need for conversion. If you own a legacy computer that still runs under Windows 3.1x, there is simply no alternative to this office suite. Nothing comes close in features and usability. It will make these old machines compatible with all the latest programs (including MS Word) and give them a new lease on life. Also, the price is hard to beat. Highly recommended!" A customer from Boston, USA.
CD-ROM, $27.99, ASIN: B00002SA3O Buy.
From: Corel
CD-ROM, $59.00, ASIN: B00003IRC7 Buy.
Corel
CD-ROM, $49.99, ASIN: B00003PMTS Buy.
Probably the best of the Win 95/98/ME series of (secretly) DOS based Windows range. Allows access to the DOS prompt.
CD-ROM, $89.99 ASIN: B00002JV50 Buy.
Needs: Windows 98 / NT / 2000 / ME
CD-ROM, $479.99, ASIN: B00005B443 Buy.
From: Macromedia
Features:
- Common Macromedia user interface
- Pop-up menu creator and drag-and-drop rollovers
- Masking and layers panel enhancements
- Refined Photoshop import and export
- Get integrated Web graphics design and professional Web-site development
"Here's a little no-nonsense advice for those of you who are considering Dreamweaver 4 as your future Web editor: don't skimp; buy this bundle. The seamless integration of Dreamweaver 4 with the nicely upgraded graphics application Fireworks 4 justifies the investment in this complete suite. Macromedia's Dreamweaver 4 packs layer upon layer of powerful features, for just about any Web developer's needs and preferences. Perfect for individuals and professional Web-development teams alike, this latest version offers a fresh set of upgrades and improvements. Programmers who build sites by using only a basic text editor are rewarded with features for source-code inspection. Code View's text-editing environment offers such customizable features as live syntax coloring, tag balancing, and auto indenting. Noncoding types can click and drag sites together by using one of the finer visual editors available. Within those layers of features, there are resources for creating forms, Flash files, frames, cascading style sheets, Java and ActiveX files, and more. In Split View, the Code and Design views display simultaneously--providing the best of both worlds for ambidextrous types. The quickest and easiest way to design graphics in the Dreamweaver world is via Fireworks 4. Fireworks' strengths lie in its focus on the creation and optimization of bitmapped and vector Web graphics. The files are integrated into Macromedia Flash and Dreamweaver easily, and importing/exporting Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator files is a breeze; especially with the program's improved layer mask handling, and a new Color Fill Live effect. Version 4 rolls out a new interface that Flash, Dreamweaver, and FreeHand users will recognize. This standardized format also offers tabbed menus for easy customization, and helps keep the screen tidy. New tools for adding interactive elements--rollovers, navigation bars, and pop-up menus--are a welcome sight. And a Live Animation feature creates frame-based GIF animations, using symbols, instances, and tweening features that are familiar to Flash users. With built-in HTML and JavaScript capabilities, version 4 delivers the goods to the Web graphics design community. Convinced? If not, you can always buy Dreamweaver 4 at full retail, and then follow-up with a Fireworks 4 purchase, weeks or months later. Just don't blame us for the lingering red mark from your forehead slap." Eric Twelker.
Windows 95 / 98 / NT / 2000 CD-ROM, $369.99 ASIN: B000050XBJ Buy,
Macintosh CD-ROM, $369.99 ASIN: B000050XBH Buy.
If it "breaks" your system, don't yell at me! :)
Books on Computing and operating systems.
Share files, printers, and other peripherals. Also ideal for multiplayer gaming.
Includes 2 32-bit professional-grade PCI LAN cards, cabling, and much more
Ready to run with Windows 95, 98, NT, Linux, and more
Allows 2 or more PCs to share one modem
$73.24, ASIN: B00003006M Buy. US only.
Complies with IEEE and Cat 5E specifications
Designed for use in Ethernet 10/100Base-T and Token Ring Type 3
Standard RJ-45 connectors
Lifetime warranty
50ft, Yellow, $10.94, ASIN: B00004Z5XN Buy.
RJ45 male/male connectors
Snagless design
Lifetime warranty
7ft, Grey, A3L850-07-S "FastCat 5", $5.24 ASIN: B00000J1UU Buy,
14ft, Cream, $4.94 ASIN: B00000J1UN Buy,
25ft, Cream, $7.94 ASIN: B00000J1V1 Buy.