THE HOT HOLDER

THE HOT HOLDER © 2025 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) THE HOT HOLDER is a multi-purpose device available in several configurations depending on your use. It was originally designed to aid technicians that repair various electronic equipment. However, it soon became a tool used for many different purposes. One such purpose is in the jewelry business. Applications here range from an easy way to mount items for cleaning and/or repair, or soldering. While not originally designed with this in mind it certainly demonstrates how versatile THE HOT HOLDER has become. Let’s look at the original purpose which was as a soldering tool to aid technicians in working with circuit boards. Such tasks involve the need to position a circuit board, or component, such as a plug, jack or other item so it can easily be soldered. In this application I loaned a couple of sample HOT HOLDERS to CRS COMPUTER REPAIR SYSTEMS in Clearwater Florida for their testing and results. So, the comments expressed below are a result of their use and experience in repairing computer circuit boards, etc. CRS found THE HOT HOLDER to be a great little tool assistant for holding items in place for inspection, and/or solder repairs. This tool has a small, but solid gel like base that has numerous convenient cutouts allowing you to set components and tools like picks and tweezers in them for easy access while actively working on a printed circuit board and soldering, or troubleshooting a failure point. It allows you to keep a hand free from having to hold what you’re working on. The unit does not get hot while working on items which is a big plus preventing burnt fingers, etc. The base is hard and flexible with a slot that you can put a pc board into that gets held tightly in position to easily be worked on. It is great for troubleshooting printed circuit boards, or power supplies. However, large boards are generally too big for the models tested and CRS suggest that larger models be considered and offered. It works very well with miscellaneous household items too. Bottom line, it’s light weight, easy to work with, has plenty of spots to hold tools while working, heat resistant and has a gel surface that is anti-slip. In short, a great tool that helps keep one’s hands free easily making for a replacement of a third hand and therefor an awesome tool to use for many purposes including non electronic! MSRP: Depends on model GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: TheHotHolder.com Graphic credits: THE GADGETEER Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Social Media pages for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: bob-the-gadgeteer.bsky.social & https://twitter.com/bskidmore

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW (CES) 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW 2025 ~ Highlights Of Some Unusual Showings …. BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) © 2025 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED The annual Consumer Electronics Show, CES, was another huge success. As always CES introduces new technology products that may soon hit the market place, or for lack of appeal will never see the light of day. More than 4312 exhibitors, 1400 startups and 5355 media were in attendance for this three day event. 138739 participants, including 40% international attendees from 161 countries made up the attendance participants list. Here are just a few of the interesting and unusual products that were displayed:

The Swippitt might look like your toaster, but its slot is actually for insertion of your smartphoneT for charging. It will automatically swap out a dead external battery integrated into a custom case with a new one. Each swappable battery has a 3500mAH capacity that provides an additional 50-90 percent charge depending on the size of the smartphone. This product could result in never having to plug in your phone again, but you’ll pay a substantial price, $450 for the hub with 5 extra batteries and $120 for the phone case with a battery included. Anchor showed a unique Umbrella solar panel as an effective solution to charge your various electronic devices. The 7 foot tall Solix Solar Beach Umbrella can generate up to 100W of power output that can be used to charge phones, tablets or coolers through USB-C and XT-600 connections. Available later this year and pricing has yet to be announced.

The Roborock’s new Saro Z70 is a solution to cleaning around random objects left lying on the ground. It features an articulated five-axis robot arm called OmniGrip that can move such obstacles out of its way. Available June 2025. Cost to be announced.

And here’s only a concept to show what’s possible. Lenovo showed off its ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable PC, a dual-screen laptop that extends the screen upward rather than folding it, or, fold two screens together. Applications could include being able to extend a screen a few inches with a simple press of a button. A good example of how CES is used to promote a concept and get reactions and input for a possible future product…. So, these are just a few very unique items on display at this year’s CES show. Graphic credits: CES & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: bob-the-gadgeteer.bsky.social & https://twitter.com/bskidmore

HEADREST HOOKS

HEADREST HOOKS ~ Also A Backseat Secure Smartphone Mount …. BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) © 2025 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Have you been looking for a better way to keep items neat, organized and accessible in your car? Well the DWARFOO Qp5010 backseat mobile car headrest hook with phone holder may just be the perfect inexpensive solution. These easily attached and removable hooks attach to most car’s headrests. An adjustable 3-position lock allows precise mounting on to the back of most front seat headrests be they sedans, or minivans. When not in use they quickly rotate 360° so you can hide the hooks when not needed. They can hold up to 11 pounds making it ideal for hanging groceries, clothes, umbrellas, cameras, tote bags and handbags. Since it offers 360° rotation you could rotate to the front of the seat keeping items upright while saving space and offering ease of item’s access.

accommodate 4 – 6-inch smartphones in a viewing position. This feature allows rear seat passengers to view videos on their individual phones, hands-free. As we said installation is very easy. A great product!

GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ MSRP: $5.99 (2-pack) Available in various 2-tone colors For more information go to: https://amzn.to/3JPGeEz Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com , or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

MACALLY KEYBOARD & MAC AND PC

MACALLY KEYBOARD FOR MAC & PC An Illuminated Keyboard With Shortcut Keys…. © 2024 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Every computer user is naturally accustomed to the standard keyboard for their tabletop Mac, laptop, or PC computer. I recently tested the MACALLY BACKLIT WIRED KEYBOARD FOR MAC, model BLSLIMKEYPROA, that’s a compatible Apple keyboard with a numeric side keyboard that works very well with MacBook Pro/Air, iMac and many older models that connect via USB. When using with a MAC, OS X 10.6 to 11 and above is required. Naturally, USB connectivity is also needed. It can work with PC’s, however some of the shortcut keys may not function as desired on a PC. Naturally, there are similar models made for PC’s by Logitech and many off-brand companies as well with various features that are designed specifically for PC use, that I have not tested for this review. It should be noted that the Macally model referenced in this review is really designed with MAC computers in mind, but, as mentioned by the manufacturer, can function on a PC. The MAC Macally keyboard is equipped with the normal 107-key MacOS layout and features 16 Apple Shortcut keys. They all feature crisp white LED lit keys for all functions with three brightness settings that provide excellent visibility in all room lighting situations. A five foot USB-A cable provides a reliable plug and play connectivity solution that works every time. Its very thin design, 0.86”, with an integrated, non-adjustable, kickstand helps to alleviate wrist strain. Three tally lights indicate that the FN , CAPS LOCK & POWER features are engaged. FN controls dual functions of function keys. The silver faceplate with white accents match the minimalistic feel and look of most Apple computers. Letters, numbers and symbols are all backlit and feature crisp white keys making it especially handy to view in darkly lit rooms. A space gray model with black keys is also available. Illumination also has three brightness adjustments that are part of the keyboard’s 16 upper shortcut selections

I find this keyboard design with backlit keyboard to work extremely well. MACALLY should publish a chart as a quick reference that shows the location and function of all shortcut keys. Currently you can locate such information in their user manual ( https://shorturl.at/v9noN ). A chart would certainly make things a lot easier for the user. It’s the perfect addition to your computer for everyday use, video editing, personal, education and business applications as well! I like it so much that I’ve added a second keyboard to my other computer, a stationary MacBook Pro, that’s also in my office. MSRP: $59.99 (White, or space gray) GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: https://shorturl.at/dyPBj Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at mailto:bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

EMERGENCY PORTABLE TV ANTENNA SYSTEM

EMERGENCY PORTABLE TV ANTENNA SYSTEM Perfect For Cable Outages That Could be Caused By Hurricanes Or Cable Outages, Etc…. © 2024 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) How often have you experienced a cable TV, or Internet outage caused by your cable TV/Internet service provider, or by a devastating storm? Sometimes such outages can last for days, or even weeks. Typically, Internet (streaming source) are fed down the same line with cable. This type of transmission is not the same as Cellular service. In other words, you may still be able to access cell service on your cell phone, but these other forms of transmission are not related, or the same and therefore may not work. Your need to access news, information and some form of entertainment can become a necessity to keep your sanity. We’ve found the perfect solution for most such situations! WeGuard offers an HDTV antenna that supports 4K 1080P and up to a 130 mile possible reception range. This antenna includes a built-in cable amplifier with signal booster. It can receive full HD channels like ABC, CBS and NBC. It comes complete with an 18’ coaxial cable that’s combined with the amplifier and an attached USB power cable. I suggest also obtaining the 20’ coaxial extension cable listed below in case the distance to a window area is more than the antenna’s supplied 18’ cable length. I also suggest obtaining the USB power adapter that will not only power the antenna, but also has additional inputs that could be useful in charging your cell phone and/or other USB powered devices. The WeGuard antenna works very well. However, it must be placed in front of a window or sliding glass door that has a mostly unobstructed view. This is where the Coaxial extension cable may be useful. Buildings in the line-of-site can become a problem so you’ll need to reposition the antenna to find the best signal. Note that the antenna’s top also plays a role so if you have storm shutters, they need to be +/- 12” above the top of the antenna even though the antenna is placed on the inside windowsill. Shutters that are a few feet away from the antenna can probably remain closed. If you reposition the antenna after you’ve already made the previously mentioned steps, you’ll need to rescan the digital channels via your remote as outlined below. My condo is located in a position where I can only receive stations whose transmitters are located South of me due to concrete buildings in the way, thus limiting the stations I can receive. I receive an ABC station from a different market and several others. Once connected to your antenna input jack on your TV you’ll need to change the INPUT SETTING on your TV’s remote to ANTENNA. Once in the ANTENNA mode you’ll probably be asked to scan for the DIGITAL CHANNELS that the antenna can pick up. The channel numbers may not look familiar to you. You’ll probably see numbers such as 66.1, 40.2, 50.6 and similar numbered channels. These represent frequencies that the TV station has been assigned by the FCC for over-the-air broadcasting. Being a cable user, you are probably not accustomed to seeing this, or for even using such over-the-air channels. The number and local channels will vary from location to location. This system works well as it is designed, however each installation can have its own unique circumstances so be prepared to make readjustments until you find what works for you. Also take into account that objects such as planes, birds, people and boats can cause temporary pixelization when they pass through the signal’s path. When not needed the antenna can be disconnected and stored in a safe place for future use. You’ll now need to reset your TV via the INPUT selection on your remote to CABLE. Remember, the time to make this kind of purchase is now and not when problems arise causing cable issues! MSRP: WeGuard antenna: $18.99 (different vendor prices can be higher) MSRP: 20’ Coaxial extension: $17.49 MSRP: USB Charger 2 pack (comes with additional charger): $16.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: WeGuard Antenna: https://shorturl.at/TCojN 20” Coax Cable Extension: https://shorturl.at/ilT22 USB C Charger Block: https://shorturl.at/w9F2f Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at mailto:bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

CHARGING STATION FOR YOUR APPLE WATCH - PERFECT FOR YOUR NIGHTSTAND

ZAPOGO APPLE WATCH CHARGING DOCK - Works In Nightstand Mode Too! What’s That? How To Setup Nightstand On Your Apple Watch? - © 2024 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Charging your Apple watch can sometimes become a tedious chore caused by slippage of Apple’s supplied magnetic charger. ZAPOGO may just have the perfect, compact solution. The ZAPOGO WATCH CHARGING DOCK is compatible with series 9/8/7/SE/6/5/4/3/2 and includes 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, Apple Watch Sport, Apple Watch Nike Plus, Apple Watch Hermes and Apple Watch Edition. It’s not compatible with the series 1. The charging dock quickly connects to any USB power adapter, not included, and comes with a USB C cable. It uses the same magnetic charging concept that is built-in to your Apple Watch. A blue indicator light on the base tells you when it’s actually properly in place and charging. It then goes off after a brief indication. The strong magnet keeps your watch firmly on the charging stand making it perfect for most environments such as home, kitchen, bedroom and office and is well suited as your traveling companion, too. The Zapogo Charging Stand also supports Apple Watch’s Nightstand Mode. Simply place your Apple Watch on the Zapogo Watch Charging Stand with the nightstand feature turned on, something you turn on in the watch’s app on your watch. The watch now displays charging status, current time/date and the time of any alarm you’ve set. To view this feature simply tap the display, or lightly nudge your Apple Watch. Even nudging, or tapping the table might work. (To enable the Nightstand mode, go to SETTINGS on your Apple Watch by quickly pressing the round digital crown button on the watch’s right side, then scroll down to SETTINGS and press this button again, now Select GENERAL > NIGHTSTAND MODE, and turn on NIGHTSTAND MODE.) When in the NIGHTSTAND MODE the watch’s display will look like the graphic below:

Reverse this procedure to return to a normal display. There’s no doubt that the ZAPOGO WATCH CHARGING STAND is a must have and it’s inexpensive too! Available in a wide variety of colors. If you have a cigarette lighter adapter, you can mount and use this in your automobile. Use double stick tape, or magnetic tape and metal strips to mount in a vertical position. Available from various on-line sites MSRP: $16.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: bit.ly/3SeQlFT Graphic credits: Amazon, Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

COB LED EMERGENCY LANTERN

COB LED LANTERN, Great Inexpensive Source Of Light During Emergencies…. © 2024 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Many of us are now in the midst of the hurricane season. In preparation for that I tested the COB LED LANTERN, a great inexpensive source of light during such and other emergencies. The COB LED LANTERN consists of low consumption battery powered LED bulbs that emit 360 degrees of 120 lumens of light, the best in portable brightness technology with zero compromise. The energy source consists of three standard AA batteries. LED light sources are known to be super bright while using very little energy, a perfect combination for illumination whenever power is lost. The lantern also features a rotary on/off switch that double as a brightness control allowing various degrees of lighting thus saving even more energy when 100% brightness is not required. Batteries are easily installed by unscrewing the base of the lantern. A folding top handle is provided that aids in transporting and mounting the lantern. The red color stands out and makes it easy to locate when your power goes out. This weather-resistant lantern is rugged, reliable and engineered with the highest quality CE & ROHS approved Military Grade ABS material. The LED’s have a lifespan of over 100,000 hours. Perfect for various applications such as; Hurricanes, thunder-storms, earthquakes, unknown power outages, camping, hiking and boating, just to mention a few scenarios. I have them strategically placed in every room in the house so I’m prepared for whatever may come my way when the electricity goes out. Truly a must have and a quality product at a very reasonable price! NOTE: Store the 3 triple A batteries in a small zip-lock bag when the lantern is not going to be used for pro-longed, or unknown periods of time and attach with a zip tie, or similar small tie wrap to the lantern’s handle. This will prevent corrosion of the batteries that could result in dead batteries and damage to the battery contacts and storage compartment. Do not mix old and new batteries. Batteries should retain energy for many months when not connected internally. MSRP: $17.99 (pair price at Amazon) Also available as a single unit from AARP as a promotional item when you make a contribution of $12 or more. Measures: 7.75” High x 3.4” x 3.4” GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: rb.gy/b95jrz Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ##