Let Bob control kids’ TV time
Need help nudging your children away from the TV or computer? Bob may be able to help. Designed by Hopscotch Technology, the Bob gadget can be connected to a TV, video game console or computer. Parents assign each child a specific amount of media time per day or week. When a child uses up his allotted time on the TV, console or PC, Bob shuts it off. Parents also can add extra time to a child’s account or block specific time periods. Available in late April, the device will cost $90.
www.hopscotchtechnology.com
Rugged notebook computer ready for adventure
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-74 notebook is one tough notebook. Built with a rugged magnesium alloy case, an integrated handle, a spill-resistant keyboard and a 13.3-inch color touch-screen that can be read in daylight, the notebook can be taken and used most anywhere. Weighing just under 6 pounds, it has a 1.83-gigahertz dual-core Intel processor, 512 megabytes of memory, a shock-mounted 80-gigabyte removable hard drive, a combination CD-burner/DVD-ROM drive and a battery that delivers up to eight hours of computing power. The notebook costs $3,000.
www.panasonic.com/toughbook
Receiver delivers high-def sound
XM Satellite Radio subscribers can enjoy their favorite channels in high-definition surround sound via Pioneer’s new VSX-816 audio/video receiver. In addition to working with an XM antenna, the receiver can be connected to TVs, DVD players, game consoles and speaker systems. To help produce the best possible sound, the receiver bases its output on the distance and level of your speakers and the acoustics in the room. Available in black or silver, the 100-watt, seven-channel receiver costs $300.
www.pioneerelectronics.com
Album kit celebrates ties that bind
My Books gives anyone with a digital camera and a printer the tools needed to create a polished-looking bound photo album. Each kit includes a photo book with a window opening, 20 sheets of paper, two end sheets and Arcsoft Collage Creator software. The process doesn’t require any glue or heat. Stacked pages are stapled together and inserted into the album’s spine. To seal the album to the pages, you pull the yellow strips off the front and back and close its cover. Unibind’s kits also can bind school reports, business proposals and other documents. Cost: $28.
www.unibind.com
