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The following gift ideas are aimed at people who enjoying playing games but not of the video variety.
Connect 4 x 4 is the only checkers four-in-a-row, four-player game-making it perfect for family game nights. With the new double-sided grid, you can score on both the front and back side of the game.
Game play is simple-pick a line, drop a checker in on each turn, and hope that your opponents don’t foil your strategy before you get four checkers in a row! The game has also added “blockers,” which can be used to block your opponents on both sides of the grid in one turn. However, make sure to save your blockers for when you really need them-you only get two and they are valuable!
The Connect 4 x 4 is available from Amazon for $17.45.
20 Questions Electronic Family Game - $24.95
Millions have played but few truly understand the power of 20Q to guess what you’re thinking. So, do you dare to challenge the all-knowing 20Q?
It’s going to take your family and friends to play along. One player selects an object and everyone else–plus 20Q- tries to guess the object. Be the one that guesses before 20Q and everyone else wins. Includes electronic game board and 50 game cards.
The 20 Questions Electronic Family Game is available from Discovery for $24.95.
The classic game of Cranium just got an upgrade. Cranium Wow is the latest addition to the fast-paced, addictive, and downright fun family of games that manages to uncover a player’s talents-or lack thereof. Similar to its older sibling, Wow’s objective is to move around the board until you’ve reached Cranium Central, where your team completes its final activities to claim victory.
A box chock full of at least 2,172 laughs. Of course, advancing to the center of the board is where all the fun is had. Teams must work together to answer, sketch, sculpt, solve, act, hum, and more. Four card decks with 600 cards and 15 activities dictate what must be done in order to move forward-and make everyone laugh out loud. One of the great things about Cranium games is how much fun they make it to discover new talents among friends and family. With something for the artist, brainiac, actor, and wordsmith, it’s guaranteed to be a good time.
The Cranium Wow Game is available from Amazon for $25.74.
Toppling Tetracubes Game - $34.95
This game challenges players to carefully balance tetracubes on a wobbly platform before time runs out and the platform begins to quake, sending the tower tumbling down. The game announces the color of the shape that must be played, and a player attempts to add that tetracube to the stack and quickly press the button to avert the tremors. If the stack is inadvertently knocked over, you can ward off defeat by rebuilding the tower before time ticks away. The allotted time decreases after each round, and three levels of difficulty allow the game to be customized for different skill levels.
The Toppling Tetracubes Game is available from Hammacher for $34.95.
Super Mario Chess Set - $39.99
Ok, we could make up stories about Mario and chess and how much fun it is to combine one of the most beloved franchises in the video gaming world with one of the most classically wonderful thinking game in the universe. But we won’t. And we won’t for one reason, and one reason only: Luigi. Something shocking has been revealed with the Super Mario Chess Set that is going to rock the gaming world forever.
The Super Mario Chess Set is available from Think Geek for $39.99.
On a recent archaeological expedition near the Great Pyramids of Egypt, the ThinkGeek R&D department made a shocking discovery. The details will be published in a few months, but we couldn’t wait to share what we found: the favorite game of the Ancient Egyptians was made of plastic and mirrors, and used lasers. Yes…lasers! It was called Khet, and once again it is available for all to enjoy.
The Khet Laser Game is available from Think Geek for $39.99.
Destruct 3 Demolition Game - $54.99
There’s some satisfaction to be had in destruction. Yeah it’s a guilty pleasure, and luckily video games do help to satiate the need to wreck and blow up stuff. Now the Destruct 3 Demolition game makes destruction the objective in a board game format. Simply roll the dice to determine your wooden weapon and attack the center block tower. You can use a ramp, wrecking ball or catapult to accomplish the demolition. Knock blocks to the outskirts of the playing field to gain more points. Ahhh… satisfying destruction at it’s best.
The Destruct 3 Demolition Game is available from Think Geek for $54.99.
Racing Marble Obstacle Course - $79.95
This is the marble raceway that allows two children to compete in an exhilarating, timed run as they each start a marble down its own twisting, obstacle-laden track. Competitors release both marbles with the press of a button which simultaneously activates the clock at the finish line. Assembled from 420 plastic pieces, each marble encounters two sets of spinning wheels, three sets of dips, a chicane, and a corkscrew, a “tire” course (similar to how a ball randomly falls through a pachinko machine), a lane switching trigger, and a pair of weighted levers. When a marble reaches the finish line, the clock stops and flashes “Winner” on its screen, accompanied by cheers.
The Racing Marble Obstacle Course is available from Hammacher for $79.95.
Mindflex-featuring a headset that reads your brain waves and a levitating foam ball-is the kind of game that must be seen to be believed. Recommended for players aged eight and older, the game begins when you strap on the headset so you can use your powers of concentration to move the ball around the game console and through a mind-bending obstacle course. A dial-in console lets you to keep the ball lifted on a cushion of air, but raising and lowering the ball must be accomplished by alternating concentrating and relaxing your mind.
The Mindflex Game is available from Amazon for $173.00.
This is the only foosball game that is played with chewable gumballs. Gumball machines atop each goal send the bubblegum onto the pitch, allowing players to engage in rapid table soccer with tasty confection. After each goal, the gumball is dispensed from the side of the table as a reward for the goal scorer’s superior foosball skills. Eight solid-metal, chromed control rods glide easily in their slots, allowing fluid movement and fast wrist-action for traditional foosball shots including pull, push, and rollovers.
The Gumball Foosball is available from Hammacher for $1500.
Electronic Gift Ideas
You can’t beat an electronic gift for the gadget enthusiast in your life, the following electronic gadgets are some of our favourites.
Universal Memory Card Reader - $29.95
This device recognizes more than 70 memory card formats, eliminating the need for different readers. Its six slots support 23 CompactFlash cards, 23 Memory Stick cards, 24 MMC and SD cards, microSD cards, xD cards, and SIM cards. It can plug into a Mac or PC running Windows 7, Vista, or XP using its built-in USB cable
The Universal Memory Card Reader is available from Hammacher for $29.95.
Projection Alarm Clock and Weather Monitor - $79.95
Available only from Hammacher Schlemmer, this alarm clock and weather monitor projects the current time and outdoor temperature onto your ceiling or wall in large, easy-to-read digits. A built-in sensor detects ambient light and activates the large LCD’s backlighting for a clear view. Shows time, alarm, temperature at the three included sensors’ locations, and weather forecast icons. Time is automatically updated via radio signal from the Atomic Clock in Boulder, Colorado. With dual alarm and snooze.
The Projection Alarm Clock and Weather Monitor is available from Hammacher for $79.95.
Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Video Camera - $99
Become an instant celebrity or paparazzo! This sleek pocketable design is built for easy video - there is no lens cap, no dials to turn, or settings to set. Just turn it on and hit record to capture the action, adventure, and all the juicy details in stunning HD! Make your cinematic debut on any HDTV. Or just pop the USB in the nearest PC and you’re ready to share the fun on YouTube. Edit, add music, and personalize your flick and easily share with your adoring fans. There’s no such thing as ”you should’ve been there” with the Zi6.
The Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Video Camera is available from Amazon for $99.
Garmin nüvi 260W 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator - $229.99 $114.99
Garmin’s nüvi 260W combines the thinprofile and attractive price point of other nüvi 200-series GPS with directions in real street names and a wide screen that lets you see more of what’s around you as you drive. Garmin’s line on the device is that, “the nüvi 260W gives consumers the most sought-after navigation features, while eliminating many of the premium add-ons. The result is a PND that simply gets you from point A to point B – reliably, efficiently, and with style.” As with all nüvis, you get Garmin reliability, the fast satellite lock of a high-sensitivity integrated receiver, a slim, pocket-sized navigator with a gorgeous display, detailed NAVTEQ maps that lets you search by name for more than 6 million points of interest like stores, restaurants or hospitals, and an easy, intuitive interface.
The Garmin nüvi 260W 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator is available from Amazon for $229.99 $114.99.
Mimo Mini USB Monitor - $129.99
Looking for that extra bit of screen real estate to get you through the busy workday? Referring to notes while writing an e-mail, checking info in a spreadsheet while entering data into a web page, keeping an eye on your to-do list while browsing YouTube… it’s handy to have additional monitor space at the ready. Problem is an entire secondary monitor comes with its own needs like requiring a separate power cord or perhaps an additional video card.
The Mimo Mini USB Monitor is available from Think Geek for $129.99.
Star Theater Pro Home Planetarium - $169.99
On a clear night, one has only to look up to realize how much wonder is still waiting for us in the universe. Out there, amongst the stars, are secrets and surprises beyond our wildest dreams. Well why not, while you’re working on your own way of getting up there to the stars, bring the stars down to you? With the Star Theater Pro Home Planetarium it’s as easy as a button press.
The Star Theater Pro Home Planetarium is available from Think Geek for $169.99.
iMo Photo Frame Printer - $199.99
The iMo Photo Frame Printer hopes to recapture some of this lost magic. Not only does it display your digital photos in typical fashion on its LCD screen, it also features a built-in printer that turns your photos into high-quality prints. Simply pull the memory card from your digital camera and insert it into the iMo. Instantly a slideshow of your photos begins to play. See a photo you like on the screen, press a button on the remote, and a few moments later out comes a glossy color print. The print cartridge is easy to replace and includes paper, ink and everything needed to churn out your photos in one unit
The iMo Photo Frame Printer is available from Think Geek for $199.99.
Kindle Wireless Reading Device - $259.00
Thanks to electronic paper, a revolutionary new display technology, reading Kindle’s screen is as sharp and natural as reading ink on paper—and nothing like the strain and glare of a computer screen. Kindle is also easy on the fingertips. It never becomes hot and is designed for ambidextrous use so both “lefties” and “righties” can read comfortably at any angle for long periods of time.
The Kindle Wireless Reading Device is available from Amazon for $259.00.
Apple iPod touch 32 GB (3rd Generation - $269.99
iPod touch is a great iPod, a great pocket computer, and a great portable game player. Listen to a mix of songs automatically put together by the new Genius Mixes feature. Watch a movie. Surf the web. View rich HTML email. Find your location and get directions with Google Maps. Discover games and apps you’re sure to love with new Genius recommendations for apps. And since iPod touch now comes with the latest 3.1 software already installed, you can start using fun, convenient features right out of the box.
The Apple iPod touch 32 GB (3rd Generation is available from Amazon for $269.99 .
Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control - $289.95
Logitech’s Harmony 890 remote control uses both radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) wireless signals to deliver powerful complete control of your home-entertainment system that may be hidden behind cabinets. With a wireless range of up to 100 feet, the Harmony 890 remote sends RF commands to a wireless receiver, which then blasts infrared signals to the components. The Harmony 890 remote makes universal control for home entertainment and advanced lighting systems simple. How does it work? Just connect your Harmony remote to your computer and the Web wizard walks you step-by-step through a simple set up. Enter in your model numbers for your components, then answer a few easy questions about how you Watch TV or Watch a DVD. You ll be controlling even the most complex system without any of the hassles of elaborate programming. Easily view and select. Color display icons and 8 on-screen activity buttons make it easy Effortlessly switch between watching HDTV and listening to music, by selecting a single activity button - Just press one of the Activity buttons, such as Watch TV or Listen to Music, and it automatically sets.
The Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control is available from Amazon for $289.95.
Book Gift Ideas (mainly for geeky people)
Books are a great and pretty low cost gift idea. Here’s a fine selection that any geek or gadget lover will enjoy.
The Official Ninja Book - $8.99
Written by Ninja expert and enthusiast Robert Hamburger, this book represents a lifetime of collected knowledge. Pouring over all available resources, Mr. Hamburger has pieced together a comprehensive guide to the artist of death we know as “Ninja.” From basic facts to details regarding Ninja history and culture, this book leaves no facet of Ninja lore undisturbed. You will learn all you need to know to embrace the way of the Ninja and eventually become one yourself. Ninjas are cool; and by cool, we mean “totally sweet.”
The The Official Ninja Book is available from Think Geek for $8.99.
I Can Has Cheezburger? - $9.99
The Internet has provided us with many wonders, from skateboarding dogs to Chuck Norris facts. Over the past year, though, one sensation has dominated the Web: LOLcats. Since its founding in January 2007, icanhascheezburger .com (named after the most famous LOLcat of all) has been the center of the LOLcat world. I Can Has Cheezburger? collects 200 LOLcats from the enormously popular site, some classic and some new, in glorious and glossy full color.
The I Can Has Cheezburger? is available from Think Geek for $9.99.
Geek Logik: 50 Foolproof Equations for Everyday Life - $10.36
Here for the geek in all of us are fifty foolproof equations that take the guesswork out of life—and the funniest twist on an idea since Richard Smith’s The Dieter’s Guide to Weight Loss During Sex. Call it the algebra oracle: By plugging in the right variables, GEEK LOGIK answers life’s most persistent questions. It covers Dating and Romance, Career and Finance, and everyday decisions like Should I get a tattoo? Can I still wear tight jeans? Is it time to see a therapist? How many beers should I have at the company picnic?
How does it work? Take a simple issue that comes up once or twice a week: Should I call in sick? Fill in the variables honestly, such as D for doctor’s note (enter 1 for “no,” 10 for “yes,” and 5 for “yes, but it’s a forgery”), R for importance of job (1-10, with 10 being “personally responsible for Earth’s orbit around Sun”), Fj for how much fun you have at work (1-10, with 10 being “personal trainer for underwear models”), N for how much you need the money (1-10, with 10 being “I owe the mob”), then do the math, and voilà—if the product, Hooky, is greater than 1, enjoy your very own Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
The Geek Logik: 50 Foolproof Equations for Everyday Life is available from Amazon for $10.36.
Gizmos & Gadgets: Creating Science Contraptions That Work - $10.36
Using simple household items to create toys that spin, fling, collide, and whiz, kids will grasp the basics of concepts of gravity, inertia, balance, and energy. Projects are very hands-on. Most activities can be completed with minimal assistance. Every page is jam-packed (in age-appropriate vocabulary) with factoids, fun facts about famous inventors, and inspiration for science lovers of all ages.
The Gizmos & Gadgets: Creating Science Contraptions That Work is available from Amazon for $10.36.
The Geeks’ Guide to World Domination - $11.99
Sorry, beautiful people. These days, from government to business to technology to Hollywood, geeks rule the world. Finally, here’s the book no self-respecting geek can live without: The Geeks’ Guide to World Domination. A guide jam-packed with 314.1516 short entries both useful and fun.
The The Geeks’ Guide to World Domination is available from Think Geek for $11.99.
A Girl’s Guide to Dating a Geek - $13.45
Are you dating a geek? Find out just how geeky he is in The Geek Test. Learn how to cope with his geekiness in sections such as: “Getting What You Want” and “How to Exercise Your Geek.” Also, discover how to plot revenge, diagnose common geek ailments, and find the perfect gift for your geek. Take a deeper look into the world of geeks with My Life Among the überGeeks and My Life Among the Gamers. Read case studies, examine graphs, peruse the Geek Dictionary, and more in: A Girl’s Guide to Dating a Geek.
The A Girl’s Guide to Dating a Geek is available from Amazon for $13.45.
Electronic Gadgets for the Evil Genius : 28 Build-It-Yourself - $16.47
Electronics fans have waited a long time for this book. Not since 1983 has author Bob Iannini published a collection of his amazing projects — all of them fun, easy, and inexpensive to make at home and, best of all, seriously exciting and impressive!
Iannini takes the stuff of science fiction and science future and brings it down to size for the home hobbyist. Full of easy-to-follow plans and clear diagrams and schematics, and respectful of your wallet, Electronic Gadgets for the Evil Genius gives you:
* Illustrated instructions and plans for amazing pretested projects advanced enough for sophisticated electronics enthusiasts but described in sufficient detail to be built easily by newcomers
* Explanations of the science and math behind each project (i.e., you can explore different methods of achieving acceleration)
* Frustration-free plans — needed parts are listed, along with sources — and most of these projects can be built for $100 or less
The Electronic Gadgets for the Evil Genius : 28 Build-It-Yourself is available from Amazon for $16.47.
Dilbert 2.0: 20 Years of Dilbert - $26.67
In the tradition of The Complete Far Side and The Complete Calvin and Hobbes, Dilbert 2.0 celebrates the 20th anniversary of Scott Adams’s Dilbert, the touchstone of office humor.
This special slipcased collection-weighing in at more than ten pounds with 600 pages and featuring almost 4,000 strips-takes readers behind the scenes and into the early days of Scott Adams’s life pre-Dilbert and on to the success that followed when Dilbert became an internationally syndicated sensation.
Divided into five different epochs, Dilbert 2.0 gives readers a glance at some of Adams’s earliest strips, like those created for Playboy, and a peek at an abundance of special content ranging from numerous rejection letters to Adams’s first cartooning check, and more.
Adams personally selected the material for this collection and offers original comments and humorous asides throughout. Also included is a disc that contains every Dilbert comic strip to April 2008.
The Dilbert 2.0: 20 Years of Dilbert is available from Amazon for $26.67.
Illuminating Book Cover - $39.95
This is the patented book cover that illuminates your reading materials anywhere without requiring a separate book light. A light built into the cover’s spine turns on automatically when it is pulled out and turns off when it is retracted. Its dual LEDs cast bright light across both pages and its head can be precisely adjusted so as not to disturb airplane seatmates or a dozing spouse. The cover is durable yet pliable .8 mm black leatherette that won’t split or crack and protects against dirt and spills.
The Illuminating Book Cover is available from Hammacher for $39.95.
Kindle Wireless Reading Device - $259.00
Thanks to electronic paper, a revolutionary new display technology, reading Kindle’s screen is as sharp and natural as reading ink on paper—and nothing like the strain and glare of a computer screen. Kindle is also easy on the fingertips. It never becomes hot and is designed for ambidextrous use so both “lefties” and “righties” can read comfortably at any angle for long periods of time.
The Kindle Wireless Reading Device is available from Amazon for $259.00.
Gift Ideas for the Chef and Kitchen
Whether you’re looking to buy for a budding chef or simply because they have a kitchen in the house, here’s a selection of gadget gift ideas for focal point of the house, the kitchen.
Wookiee Cookies: A Star Wars Cookbook - $9.93
“Consider, young Jedi: Why bake a plain old cookie when you can bake a super-Chewie Wookiee Cookie?” So begins the delightful Star Wars Cookbook. Aimed at young cooks, but fun for all ages, the cookbook provides recipes for treats such as Princess Leia Danish Dos, Twin Sun Toast, Tusken Raider Taters, Sandtrooper Sandies, and the Amazon.com house favorite, Boba Fett-uccine. (What better way to get young Jedi knights to eat their broccoli?) Author Robin Davis’s directions are extremely thorough and safety oriented (as she notes, “the calm and perceptive mind of a Jedi warrior will enable you to prevent most mishaps in the kitchen”), and perfect for kids who are new to cooking.
The Wookiee Cookies: A Star Wars Cookbook is available from Amazon for $9.93.
Digital Hourglass Kitchen Timer - $14.65
This Polder Digital Hourglass Kitchen Timer has a wonderful shape and design so that any cook can put it on the kitchen counter when not in use. The timer can be flipped over to change between clock and timer functions. It has a 100 minute timer and stopwatch. A great gift idea!
The Digital Hourglass Kitchen Timer is available from Amazon for $14.65.
Rubik’s Cube Salt & Pepper Mills - $14.99
Back when the Rubik’s Cube was in its hey day, the kitchen was probably mostly foreign territory for you. Sure, you could toast a mean Pop Tart or pour yourself a giant bowl of Cap’n Crunch, but anything beyond that was likely outside the realm of your culinary ability. Boy, how things have changed - now you’re a microwave ninja and can follow perfectly the 4 steps on the back of any box. Your mac-and-cheese is legendary. A hot dog from your kitchen is even better than the ones you can get from the gas station stop shop. What better way to pay some homage to the days of your culinary roots then with these puzzling retro style grinders.
The Rubik’s Cube Salt & Pepper Mills is available from Think Geek for $14.99.
Automatic Pepper Mills/Salt Grinders - $19.99
You are getting 2 sets of the iTouchless Automatic Stainless Steel Electric Pepper Mill/Salt Grinder. Each of the Pepper Mill/Salt Grinder is ideal for dinner parties featuring salads and steaks that taste better with fresh-ground pepper and sea salt. Just press the button on top and let the mill go to work. The stainless steel grinding mechanism can be adjusted from fine to coarse, and a light will turn on automatically at the bottom when you activate the mill to help with accurate portion control at night. The nut underneath the mill controls the texture: turn clockwise for a finer grind, counterclockwise for coarser.
The Automatic Pepper Mills/Salt Grinders is available from Amazon for $19.99.
With baking, precision is absolutely vital. Measuring your wet ingredients and your dry ingredients with our new ultra-precise spoon scale. With two spoons included, you can scoop out just the right amount of sugar, or even 10-1 grams of salt! To get this level of precision, you’d normally need a separate scale, but we’ve combined two immensely useful kitchen gadgets into one, and we love dual-use devices in the kitchen!
The Spoon Scale is available from Think Geek for $24.99.
Digital Scale Measuring Cup - $39.95
This is the only measuring cup with an integrated digital scale. Unlike typical measuring cups that only determine volume, this model also measures wet or dry ingredients by weight, a more precise technique favored by pastry chefs and artisanal bakers. A 1 1/4″ LCD on the handle displays digital measurements in ounces, pounds, or grams. The scale automatically converts weight (ounces, fluid ounces, grams, or milliliters) into volume (cups) for water, milk, oil, sugar, and flour, providing superior accuracy when making recipes.
The Digital Scale Measuring Cup is available from Hammacher for $39.95.
Homo Sapiens Caveman Kitchen Tool - $39.99
It wasn’t until many thousands of years later that we took that ancient knowledge and created the ultimate kitchen tool. It can grind herbs into a lovely paste for flavoring meats, it can grate ginger and garlic for your stir fry, and you can even use a flattened stone edge to hone your blades to razor sharpness.
The Homo Sapiens Caveman Kitchen Tool is available from Think Geek for $39.99.
Chef’s Remote Thermometer Monitor - $49.95
This is the meat thermometer and timer that allows cooks to monitor food’s progress from up to 100′ away using a wireless transmitter probe which sends temperature updates to a handheld receiver. Audible voice alerts tell you when your food has reached the pre-set level (from rare to well-done), and the transmitter is suitable for both kitchen and outdoor grill use, leaving cooks free to attend to other tasks and not having to constantly wait at the ready for cooking to finish. The unit’s database has pre-set temperature settings for six types of poultry and meat, and additional custom settings can be programmed and stored. The backlit display is easy to read, and the transmitter’s weather-resistant case protects it during outdoor use.
The Chef’s Remote Thermometer Monitor is available from Hammacher for $49.95.
Nutritional Facts Scale - $59.95
This is the scale that displays the nutritional facts about food items in the same, simple format found on all food product packaging as mandated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Ten key elements of weighed foods are displayed, including calories, calories from fat, carbohydrates, protein, cholesterol, sodium, and more. An internal database stores the nutritional value of 999 foods and has the capacity to memorize an additional 99 foods you can program with the key pad on the scale. Foods can be stored to determine nutritional value of an entire meal or an entire day’s consumption.
The Nutritional Facts Scale is available from Hammacher for $59.95.
Space Invaders Cutting Boards - $129.99
WHUMP-WHUMP-whump-whump, they marched, downwards - ever downwards, towards your mobile artillery cannon. You fired and fired, and blasted them from the sky, but the more you shot down, the faster they came! This was the golden age of videogames. Back then, a meal was a cola slushy and a hotpocket. Now, you’re all grown up. You’ve traded in your pocketfull of quarters for a console, but you never forgot your roots. Pay homage to those days of yore when Italian plumbers battled giant apes and pie-chart-graphs ate ghosts. It’s time to decorate in video-game style.
The Space Invaders Cutting Boards is available from Think Geek for $129.99.
Gift Ideas for the iPhone Addict
With the ever rising popularity of the Apple iPhone and multitude of accessories they make for an ideal gift for the iPhone owner.
Excellent accessory for your iPhone 3G or Ipod Touch. Lightweight stylus allows for smooth damage-free navigation across touchscreen! Same technology as other sytlus that retail for $20! Rubber angled tip provides enough contact with screen to allow proper electrocurrent flow to replicate the use of your finger on the touchscreen. Best for typing and selecting rather than “dragging”. To use properly, place entire flat edge of angled side, not just the tip of the angle, on the trouchscreen. Item wll not function proplerly if entire angled edge is not making full contact with the screen. Item comes with “pen clip” so that you do not lose it. Great accessory for your Iphone 3G or Ipod touch.
The iPhone 3G Stylus is available from Amazon for $2.49.
HiJack Headphone Splitter Keychain - $9.99
The HiJack is a very simple little device. It plugs into your headphone jack and splits it into two jacks. What makes the HiJack so sweet is it’s tiny size and keychain clip, so you can keep it with you wherever you go. On the bus, on the train - who knows where you’ll meet that special someone you’d like to share your tunes with? But when you do, you both can rock out to “The Imperial March” from Star Wars. Oh, yeah . . . .
The HiJack Headphone Splitter Keychain is available from Think Geek for $9.99.
iTrip Auto FM Transmitter and Charger - $13.41
The Griffin 9501-TRIPCB iTrip Auto FM Transmitter and Auto Charger for iPod combines Griffin’s renowned FM transmitter technology with an integrated charger. Designed specifically for use in the car, the iTrip Auto powerfully transmits clear music from your iPod through your car stereo, while the large, easy-to-read backlit LCD screen affords quick, precise station selection and status at a glance.
The iTrip Auto FM Transmitter and Charger is available from Amazon for $13.41.
Grassy Lawn Charging Station - $24.99
The Grassy Lawn Charging Station provides you with realistic artificial grass to cushion your gadgets while they charge. A compartment underneath hides all of the power adapters and cables. Simply run a standard extension cable into the bottom of the base, plug in all your power adapters, then snake the charging cables up through the grass. Voila! Your gadgets will think they’re on a charging vacation.
The Grassy Lawn Charging Station is available from Think Geek for $24.99.
Beginning iPhone Development - $26.39
The Grassy Lawn Charging Station provides you with realistic artificial grass to cushion your gadgets while they charge. A compartment underneath hides all of the power adapters and cables. Simply run a standard extension cable into the bottom of the base, plug in all your power adapters, then snake the charging cables up through the grass. Voila! Your gadgets will think they’re on a charging vacation.
The Beginning iPhone Development is available from Amazon for $26.39.
FreeLoader Portable Solar Charger - $49.99
Freeloader Portable Solar Charger is an advanced portable charging system that can power any hand held device anywhere, anytime. The Freeloader gets power from its solar panels or via a supplied charging cable that plugs into your computers USB port. Once charged, the internal Li-Ion battery can power an iPod for 18hours, a mobile phone for 44 hours, PSP for 2.5 hours a PDA for 22 hours and much more. Supplied in a tough but stylish aluminium body, Freeloader can take the knocks of every day life whether on a business trip in New York, back packing in the Andes or chilling on a Caribbean beach.
The FreeLoader Portable Solar Charger is available from Think Geek for $49.99.
iPhone Charging Leather Case - $69.95
This leather case protects and recharges an iPhone or iPod Touch, providing up to 3 1/2 hours of additional talk time. Simply connect an iPhone 3G or 3GS or a second generation iPod Touch to the dock inside the case and its integrated Li-ion battery immediately begins to recharge the phone. The durable leather case is slim enough to stow comfortably in a pocket, and you can turn off the charger at the touch of a button for use as a traditional protective cover. The case can recharge an iPhone and iPod Touch up to 1 1/2 times before the case itself needs to be recharged.
The iPhone Charging Leather Case is available from Hammacher for $69.95.
iBreath Breathalyzer & FM Transmitter - $89
Introducing the iBreath Alcohol Breathalyzer. It’s the ultimate iPod and iPhone (orig. and 3G) accessory that lets you take your own alcohol breath test so you can get home safely.
Hollywood’s A-listers have been among the first to purchase the newly available gadget to insure that their mug shot is not the next one to grace the tabloids and news reports.
The iBreath Breathalyzer & FM Transmitter is available from David Steele for $89.
This is the pocket-sized device that projects a 60″ image from an iPod, iPhone, or any video source with composite outputs. About the size of a candy bar, the unit projects bright, clear images and pivots up to 90º to display content on a wall or ceiling. The projector’s LED uses Digital Light Processing Technology-the same as digital cinema projectors-to produce sharp 480×320 resolution with a 1000:1 contrast ratio and a 3:2 aspect ratio. It has a manual focus dial, adjustable volume control for its 1/2-watt internal speaker, and a headphone jack for private listening.
The iPod Video Projector is available from Hammacher for 379.95.
Crosley iJuke Jukebox With iPod Dock - $399.99
Crosley has married the legendary classic jukebox with modern-day technology of today to create the iJuke. The iJuke is a real treat for the eyes and ears and is sure to become an instant household favorite. The iJuke allows you to connect your iPod and add hours of listening pleasure to your jukebox experience in any environment.
The Crosley iJuke Jukebox With iPod Dock is available from Amazon for $399.99.
R/C Toy Gift Ideas
There’s nothing like a remote control vehicle to bring out the kid big in anyone, here we present some of our favourite R/C toys and vehicles.
Soar through the house with this revolutionary flying machine – dodge lamps, walls, furniture and more.
- Rechargeable indoor flying machine
- Uses its sensor to avoid obstacles and ceilings in Autopilot Mode
- Use the directional pad to navigate or hands to guide
- Use RC mode to take complete control
- Control height and power with the throttle
- Go head-to-head with a friend in an aerial dogfight with the included dogfight accessory (requires second Bladestar, sold separately)
The Flytech Bladestar is available from Discovery for $34.99 .
iRC Mini R/C Motor Bike - $49.99
With a built-in gyro that is always spinning, these diminutive motor bikes can move slowly enough to be maneuverable without falling over. The included remote looks like a motorcycle accelerator grip. Charge your mini-bike from the remote then go on a cross country tour of the accounting department.
The iRC Mini R/C Motor Bike is available from Think Geek for $49.99 .
Radio Control Drift Attack Stunt Vehicle - $49.99
Twist, spin, drift and slide – this radio control attack vehicle performs more stunts than ever.
- Wheels rotate, slide and drift for terrain-defying maneuvers
- Performs wheelies, power slides, spins, drifts and twists
- Executes upside down stunts and 360-degree spins
- Digital proportional control
- Glowing LED lights
- Four-wheel chassis with dual tread for improved high-torque movement
The Radio Control Drift Attack Stunt Vehicle is available from Discovery for $49.99 .
Remote Controlled Gyromobile - $59.95
This remote controlled, dual-wheeled gyromobile’s positively cambered, dual-wheeled design enables beginners to command it into dizzying spins and nimble turns. You can control it from up to 25′ away with the remote, moving it forward, backward, left and right because both 8 1/2″ diam. wheels can operate independently, allowing it to make hairpin turns and spin in place. It can jump over piles of laundry or flip over a stack of books because it is weighted such that it will always end up on its wheels.
The Remote Controlled Gyromobile is available from Hammacher for $59.95.
17” Skidoo RC Snowmobile - $79.95
With authentic details like a working taillight and headlight, this 17″ scale replica snowmobile offers the complete Ski-Doo experience. Interchangeable skis let you run the unit on indoor surfaces or outdoors on the snow, and working suspension, a full-track design and signature aesthetics help the snowmobile look and handle just like the real thing.
The 17” Skidoo RC Snowmobile is available from Amazon for $79.95.
Cobra R/C 2 Channel Mini Helicopte - $89.99
With Our Cobra Toys Radio Controlled (RC) helicopters you can benefit from greater aerobatic capabilities and longer flying time. Carefully developed and tested, Cobra Toys use better batteries - often Li-Poly (Lithium Polymer) for quicker charge time and longer play time, better components and superior construction. The result is a premium quality designed and built product. Cobra Toys are produces at the best factories in China: Syma and Double Horse. Now includes the DOG FIGHT feature. Play against your friend with this new cool APACHI helicopter.
The Cobra R/C 2 Channel Mini Helicopte is available from Amazon for $89.99.
Any toy that teaches kids about alternative energy in a way that makes it fun for them is definitely okay in my book. I’ve seen some that are kits and a bit more complicated. Honestly, I think that this car is one of the best approaches I’ve seen. It goes for the subtle angle, it’s a fun remote control car and doesn’t need a single battery to run.
The H2Go Fuel Cell Car is available from Amazon for $109.99.
Swim Along Manta Ray - $119.95
This is the remote controlled manta ray that glides underwater while you swim or snorkel nearby. Its hydrodynamic body has small holes in its upper body that allow water to displace air as it submerges down to its maximum depth of 8′. You can control it from 6′ away with the remote (which is waterproof down to 3′). Forefinger triggers on the underside of the remote enable independent pitch for each thruster, providing control for steep, powered dives to the bottom of pools and rapid ascents. Thumb toggles on the topside of the remote allow for independent thrust operation of each shrouded propeller, providing the ability to move forward, backward, make left and right turns, barrel rolls, or complete underwater loops-even intricate submerged Immelmann turns.
The Swim Along Manta Ray is available from Hammacher for $119.95.
Remote Control Authentic WWII Battling Tanks - $249.95
With authentic period details, realistic sounds, and infrared “projectiles,” these remote controlled tanks re-enact the famous armored clashes of World War II. At 1:24 scale, each tank’s weathering, battle damage, and authentic period details are clearly identifiable including the zimmerit coating on the German Tiger I, meant to thwart magnetic anti-tank mines, and the shell mark on the U.S. Army M4A3 Sherman. Both tanks generate realistic sounds while they move on realistic treads with suspension. Each is fitted with a cannon that fires an infrared beam 25′ away at a sensor on each tank. The tanks generate an explosion sound and vibrate to indicate they have been hit; five hits results in victory, which shuts the tank down.
The Remote Control Authentic WWII Battling Tanks is available from Hammacher for $249.95.
SRV-1 Blackfin Mobile Surveillance Robot - $495.99
Explore the dangerous terrain of your home or office with the SRV-1 Mobile Robot. This palm sized bot packs tank-like treads a 1000MIPS 500MHz Blackfin BF537 processor and a mini video camera. Using 802.11b/g wi-fi the SRV-1 interfaces wirelessly with a remote PC. The Java-based console software includes a built-in web server to monitor and control the SRV-1 via a web browser from anywhere in the world, as well as archive video feeds on demand or on a scheduled basis. Get programming with fully open-source software for robot and host computer.
The SRV-1 Blackfin Mobile Surveillance Robot is available from Think Geek for $495.99.
11 Geeky or Gadgety Valentine Gifts
It’s under a week until Valentines day, so time for a bit of gadget help for us last minute shoppers.
Afraid to send a guy flowers? We have the perfect flower to send. Duct Tape Roses. Great for Valentine’s Day an anniversary gift, graduation gift or special birthday gift. Choose your color and quantity. Sold in quantity 3, 6, 9 or 12. Packaged with tissue, ribbon and cello wrapped.
The Duct Tape Roses is available from Abernook for $18.00.
Holographic Candlelit Dinner Kit - $5.99
Any other human, when presented with a nice romantic candlelit dinner with the “significant-other” of their choice, would probably see hearts floating in their eyes. You, however, are one of those above-average superhumans (aka “Geek”), and as such are not as easily swayed by simple biological imperatives, and chances are good your chosen mate is as much geek as you are. Consequently, your natural cynicism requires the use of technology to generate those floating hearts.
The Holographic Candlelit Dinner Kit is available from Think Geek for $5.99.
Star Wars Padmé Amidala Costume - $39.99
Even geeks have fantasy’s. From Rubies Costumes new “Secret Wishes” line, this sexy Padmé Amidala costume is perfect for Halloween parties or other special occasions. Includes slinky jumpsuit with attached boot tops and belt.
The Star Wars Padmé Amidala Costume is available from Star Wars Shop for $39.99.
My Perfect Guy Keychain - $5.99
My Perfect Guy talking key chain. Tired of looking for that “Perfect Guy”? Your search is finally over! Placing your needs before his own, this delightful talking key chain character always knows just what to say to make you happy! With a gentle squeeze of his tummy, My Perfect Guy speaks one of 10 custom messages designed to keep you laughing for a lifetime! Key chain is approx,6 inches CONDITION: New perfect gift for the girl who has everything;) except the perfect guy! The perfect guy! says thing only she wants to hear
like “You shouldn’t be cleaning that ,Let’s hire a maid” or “Honey is it ok if I make dinner tonight ? ” plus 8 more funny sayings that you wouldn’t say yourself but she wishes you would
The My Perfect Guy Keychain is available from Amazon for $5.99.
TowelSpa Towel Warmer - $79.50
Our TowelSpa Towel Warmer thoroughly warms your towels, blankets, robes, or socks in only 6 minutes. Simply place a towel inside this towel warmer, close the lid, and press the warming button. By the time you step out of the shower, your towel will be perfectly toasty.
The TowelSpa Towel Warmer is available from Frontgate for $79.50.
Heard the one about the sparkling ‘diamond’ ring that’s attached to a porcelain mug? It’s hilarious. Especially seeing as it’s packaged in a beautiful presentation box that only shows the gleaming ring. Haha!
The 2 Carat Mug is available from Firebox for $14.95.
Zombie Cupid Eats HEAAAARRRTTTS!! - $4.99
Valentine’s Day: 2099. It’s been a long hard fight against the Zombie Hordes, but the end is near. They are overpowering us. We’ve done our best, but we just couldn’t . . . . There’s a bang on the door. OMG, it’s Zombie Cupid. And he doesn’t have love-hearts at the end of his arrows . . . he has REAL hearts! And he’s eating them. Oh no! He’s coming this wa[end transmission from a bleak future]
The Zombie Cupid Eats HEAAAARRRTTTS!! is available from Think Geek for $4.99.
Handheld Percussive Massager. - $49.95
After rigorous testing by the Hammacher Schlemmer Institute, this handheld percussive massager earned the “Best” rating because it produced the most invigorating massage and allowed panelists to easily pinpoint sore muscles. While panelists criticized competing models for being too vigorous, the best percussive massager was lauded for its perfect massage intensity that was “very comfortable and relaxing.” The best massager earned the highest marks for relieving soreness in the shoulders, neck, back, and legs, leading one panelist to say its thumping nodes provided “a smooth massage that quickly loosened tight muscles.”
The Handheld Percussive Massager. is available from Hammacher for $49.95.
Share the magic of these personalized beans as they grow with your name or message intact. Maximum of 10 characters per bean.
• size: 3/8″L x 5/8″W
• personalization: max of 10 characters per bean
The Personalized Beans is available from Abernook for $36.00.
This is a unique and original green gift. A tree will be planted as a Valentine gift in the
honoree’s name to commemorate his / her Love. This Eco-Friendly gift shows your originality and green conscience. A Tree will be planted in your selected US State, Israel or the Amazon. The Honoree will receive an elegant Tree Certificate, with your Name as the sender(s) and the tree number so they can find the tree location online.
The Valantine’s Tree is available from TreeInstead for $25.00.
Our soft, plush iPod pillow doubles as a WORKING radio. Use its built-in FM scan radio with audio speaker, or connect it to your iPod or CD player, computer, or other audio device and enjoy great sound.
The iPillow is available from KlearGear for $19.95.
If none of the above grab your fancy check out what other gadget blogs are talking about:
- Random Good Stuff - Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas
- PopSci - Valentine’s Gift Guide For Your Geek Chic Girlfriend
- Hardware Sphere - Valentine Gifts Idea for Boys
- Valentine`s Day Gift Guide: Technical Gifts for Your Sweetheart
- inhabitat - Great Green Gift Ideas for Valentines Day!
- Geeks are Sexy - The Geek Guide to Valentine’s Day Gifts
- Gaj-It - Valentine Gifts for the Gadget Lover
- Tech Styling - Top 5 Valentines Day Gadget and Gifts For Him
- TWWWB - Gadget gift guide for Valentine’s Day
If you know of any other guides worth listing please let us know in the comments and we’ll add them.
Cool Gift Ideas for People to Make
Our next gift guide is aimed at the techie that enjoys making stuff before playing with it.
Magna-Bones includes the skeletal remains of a Triceratops. Once you dig out your bones, assemble and pose Tri-Tops. Learn about their history and life on the collectable tin card.
- Feel like a real paleontologist!
- Build cool models with bone shaped rods.
- Endless hours of construction!
- An excellent way to develop scientific knowledge and social development.
The Magna-Bones 32 pcs is available from Amazon for $14.99.
Wooden War Engine Kits - $19.99+
These kits let you bring back all the fun of flinging. Each one can assemble in just a few hours, and provides a fantastic scale model of an actual war weapon of yore. The catapult is perfect for chucking balls of paper and other small objects over cubicle walls. The trebuchet is better for long range targets (like the water cooler or networked printer). And, all you need to put them together are some strong fingers (or pliers), a cutting tool, and glue (not included). Both kits are perfect for showing your love of retro weaponry.
The Wooden War Engine Kits is available from Think Geek for $19.99+.
Classic Video Table Tennis Kit - $19.99+
Blocky table tennis with a ball and two paddles was one of the first real video games to make it into mainstream culture. It took an awful lot of high-tech electronics in 1972 to create this classic game. Now however you can cobble together your very own Classic Video Table Tennis Game with a little determination and some basic soldering skillz. This kit contains a pre-printed circuit board and 39 various resistors, diodes, and capacitors. Solder everything together (following the instructions we hope) and plug the audio and video into any standard TV for instant Table Tennis action. You can play against another lowly human or challenge the computer at four different skill levels.
The Classic Video Table Tennis Kit is available from Think Geek for $19.99+.
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