Samsung Electronics has successfully developed a flat panel X-ray detector (FPXD for short) for radiology machines in a joint venture with Vatech from Korea. It utilizes digital imaging with thin-film transistor technology, whereby the diagnostic process is enhanced in more than one way. Not only do you end up with a far more precise image, the new FPXD imaging sensor from Samsung will also go a long way in helping medical labs cut their costs where time and money are concerned since there is no longer any need for film or development processes.

Sky Harbor International Airport was the first in the US that undertook the task of testing a new body-scanning machine, where if proved successful in daily use, could potentially replace the metal detectors which passengers walk through at airports. Thursday afternoon marked the day and time where security officials started sending passengers through the full-body scan machine at the airport’s Terminal 4 on a test basis. This new body scanning machine utilizes radio waves to detect foreign objects, creating an image based on energy that is reflected from the body. This digitally composed image is then viewed by an operator in a private screening room, where the faces of those being screen have been blurred out so that their privacy will be preserved.

Icron Technologies has finally lifted the curtains on the first wireless USB 2.0 hub in the world which is based on an industry standard 802.11g radio. This hub is known as the WiRanger Cable Free USB 2.0 Hub, and it takes standard USB connectivity to the wireless realm, enabling you to hook up a myriad of USB devices such as printers, scanners, hard drives, digital cameras, and MP3 players to either PC or Macs throughout a building without going through the hassle and headache of connecting wires.

Spruce up your bedside table with a device that crams in more functionality that the average 55-in-1 memory card reader. The name of this unique devce says it all, as the good folks at Hammacher could not conceive a unique moniker, we all will have to make do with the Police Scanner/Weather/Atomic Clock Radio. What’s so special about it, you ask. After all, the vast array of buttons, knobs, and dials make it look too complicated to use for the average “dummy” back home.

Got Bugs, and I don’t mean the insect kind. I mean eyes and ears watching and listening to your every move in your home or office. Have you recently gone through a divorce and just know that your conniving ex-spouse is spying on you? Are you working on a new invention or new technology and you believe your competitors are trying to learn your secrets to success?

If any of the above has crossed your mind, there is an easy way to find out. All you need is the Bug Detector. This wonderful gadget will let you know if there are any hidden cameras or any other type of wireless bugs in your home, underground laboratory, or office.

Some very cool, if ultimately doomed to failure stuff here from Salton inc. First, the Icebox. This one I do rather like. It’s a TV/DVD player/net browser/video monitor/radio for the kitchen with an integrated touchscreen. There is a choice of form factors - the iMac clone looks cute but I’m particularly fond of the foldaway under the counter “fliptop” model. They also include a washable keyboard and mouse - it’s always nice to see attention to detail.