TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF MAKING PERFECT EGGS

TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF MAKING PERFECT EGGS

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Ever wish there were a better way to cook eggs? Well, the EGG GENIE may finally be the answer. Usually the infomercial gadgets leave much to be desired. The magic they show on television commercials is anything but magic at home. Not so with the EGG GENIE.

The EGG GENIE electric egg cooker cooks hard-boiled, soft boiled and poached eggs to perfection. It consists of a base, a seven-egg tray, a four-egg poach tray, a see-thru plastic cover and a measuring cup. To cook eggs simply remove the clear plastic lid and fill the bottom of the aluminum plate with cold water. Distilled water is suggested to prevent discoloration of the eggs and the plate, however tap water works just fine. Fill the measuring cup with water to the level that equals the number of eggs you wish to cook. Up to seven soft or hard-boiled, or four poached eggs can be cooked at a time. A steel pin is provided on the base for piercing of hard and soft eggs. Place the egg tray into position. Place the desired number of eggs into the tray, pierced side up. If cooking poached eggs, break open up to four eggs and put the contents into the poach egg container. The container is now placed on top of the tray. Place the cover over the eggs and plug into the electric wall socket. Note, no switch or power indicator is provided, so when the buzzer sounds, disconnect from the electric outlet. This is not a design error, but rather an inexpensive way to power on/off the cooker and prevent over cooking, or burnout of the plate. Be careful to stay clear of the vent on the cover while cooking, as hot steam will be ejected during and after the cooking process. Let cool and then enjoy your perfectly cooked eggs.

TIP: Place cooked eggs in a container filled with cold water and let set for five minutes. This makes for even better tasting eggs.

Cleanup is a snap too. If you used tap water you’ll need to wipe off the brown residue on the metal plate, otherwise a quick wipe down and your finished. What could be simpler?

I was very impressed with the simplicity and the no-mess operation, however, when making poached eggs I suggest using a cooking spray such as Pam to make egg removal and cleanup a bit easier. Certainly beats standing over a hot stove waiting for water to boil. My only objection is the measuring cup needs to have colored lettering making it easier to read the various water level markings. The EGG GENIE does what it advertises, cook eggs to perfection!

The EGG GENIE is available at retail outlets that stock “As Seen On TV” products and on line. Currently there appears to be no European model available. Since most on-line sites will ship world-wide, purchasing a voltage step-down device will make this gadget work world-wide. Voltage adapter details available at: http://www.conair.com/-c-55_90_98.html. Prices may vary, but typically EGG GENIE may be purchased for $19.95.

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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Postscript: Since publishing this article I have had readers advise me that the on-line site I listed for purchasing the EGG GENIE has used some tricky methods to confuse the buyer, resulting in additional unwanted merchandise being ordered. I have therefor removed the link. This product may easily be purchased on-line by the use of Google, or any other search engine. Caution should always prevail when ordering on line. Check your order and total costs before completing the transaction. Buyer, always be ware.

PLUG INTO THE SUN...

PLUG INTO THE SUN…

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

When disaster strikes how would you charge your handheld electronic devices? Better Energy Systems may have the answer with their line of Solio pocket size solar chargers. Three models are available, the Classic, the H1000 and the Magnesium Edition, with the main differences being in charging capacity.

How do they work? Each model has it’s own built-in battery. This user replaceable battery is charged by direct sunlight, an eight to 10 hour process, or by a supplied universal AC power adapter. Once the battery is full you are ready to charge your device at any time. Shelf life is up to one-year. A basic set of tips and USB adapter is supplied, quantity and type determined by model selected. Additional optional tips are available to interconnect numerous other devices and brands of mobile phones, MP3 players, GPS units and a SOLIO LED light. A suction cup holder is included allowing mounting on a window so it can be aimed directly at the sun. An LED indicator/switch, when depressed, sets the charging cycle in operation. It also indicates the amount of charge stored in the unit. Five rapid flashes and you’re 100% charged. A fully charged Classic will charge a typical cell phone more than twice, or give over 20 hours of iPod music. In many cases just 1 hour of sunshine equals twenty-minutes talk time, or fifty-minutes of MP3 music. Once again, performance varies depending on the type of device, device’s battery capacity and intensity of sunlight.

I tested the Classic, a three-blade set of small panels that neatly folds up into a compact stack and easily fits into your pocket. This model was supplied with numerous tips, and a USB adapter accommodates a single tip. Note only one device may be charged at a time. As my luck would have it, a Palm Treo PDA adapter was not one of those included, so I ordered one from Solio’s web site at a cost of $9.95. Since the Treo’s power consumption is rather high, a 50% charge was only possible over about a four-hour period.

In general the Solio Classic worked as promised. The plastic suction cup mount, however, leaves a bit to be desired. I would like to see a better mounting system even if it becomes an optional extra. Since direct sunlight is required, window mounting becomes essential, unless you are outdoors for the period of time required to fully charge the unit. Naturally, if you use the AC power adapter, a mount is not required. This method is quick and easy and desirable for pre-power-outage storage. It’s interesting to note these solar charging devices have become standard issue by disaster relief agencies in many natural disasters worldwide and have even found their way in the extremes of the Arctic. Unfortunately, Solio chargers are not designed to charge or operate laptops. I give it two thumbs up.

Solio products are available worldwide at airports and other retail stores, and on line. For more details contact: www.solio.com

MSRP: Classic $99.95; H1000 $49.95; Magnesium Edition $169.95

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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IT'S EASY TO FLIP OVER FLIP VIDEO

IT’S EASY TO FLIP OVER FLIP VIDEO

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Not since the introduction of VHS have I seen a video product generate so much fun, excitement and practicality. FLIP VIDEO™ is a tiny video camcorder smaller than a pack of cigarettes, housed in a rugged designer case that incorporates up to 8gb of built-in memory. Since its launch in 2007, more than 2 million units have been sold. In mid ’09 a new generation was introduced with many improvements and features resulting in four models: ULTRA SD (standard definition), ULTRA HD (high definition), the Mino HD and the Mino. More recently, the SLIDE HD was introduced featuring a 3” widescreen. All models are tripod mountable. The biggest difference between these models is physical size, display size and recording time.

The 6 oz ULTRA series features a 2”diagonal color LCD screen, very high light sensitivity with automatic low light detection, fixed focus f2.4 optics with electronic 2x digital zoom and a choice of a rechargeable, or double “A” battery source for up to 4.5 hours of use per charge and an optional under water housing for under $50. Recording time is two hours.

The 3.3 oz Mino models are available in two record time options, 60 or 120 minutes, feature a 1.5” diagonal color LCD, internal Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (2 Hr. HD/4 Hr. SD). Optics and light characteristics are very similar to the Ultra series.

Reduced size is the big factor here over the ULTRA.

The new SlideHD records up to 4 hours in HD and features a 3” pop-up color display.

(TIP: A caution, the smaller the size of any camera, the more difficult it becomes to operate and keep steady)

The ULTRA and the Mino record in the MPG4 format making them ideal for use with your MAC, or PC. This also means worldwide television standards are not a factor. The FLIP is so well designed you can easily perform many postproduction tasks with the supplied Flipshare software. A click of an icon allows you to email up to ten minutes, 100mb of video, to Flip’s proprietary web site. The recipient receives a link to your video for easy, fast viewing and the clip remains available for up to 500 views, or ninety days, whichever comes first. These clips may even be edited into a movie with dissolves and music. Other icons include a selection of direct links for uploading to Facebook, YouTube, or your own web site. Stills are a snap. The JPEG photos you can capture using the program’s Snap feature have a resolution of 424 x 318 pixels, with full 24-bit color depth. If that’s not enough you can incorporate FLIP footage into non-FLIP projects. (squared5.com/svideo/mpeg-streamclip-mac.html) Casablanca editors can now feed the flip directly into the project with automatic HD>SD conversion when desired. More information is available at: casablancaexpert.com. Other icons allow you to make video greeting cards, directly make a DVD of your video, or create a flip channel to easily and privately share flip content with any group of people you choose and have Flip email them when you add new content. Naturally, you can also save your clips to your hard drive. Mac/PC editing is possible with the use of conversion software easily available on the web.

Connecting your FLIP to your computer is as easy as pushing a button causing a USB 2 connector to flip out, thus the name FLIP VIDEO™. The supplied NTSC cable for SD models and an optional HDMI™ cable for the HD version accomplish connecting to your TV.

My tests revealed the video quality to be exceptional. In all situations the FLIP outperformed my wildest expectations. I have spoken with a producer of documentaries that used FLIP HD footage as “B” roll and intermixed it with broadcast level HD recordings. Results were outstanding. Network newscasts incorporate FLIP footage as do many commercially available DVD’s. The applications are endless. Available at major retailers and on line. More details at theflip.com.

UPDATE: New models, which are available at retail 9/20/10 include two Flip UltraHD models and two Flip MinoHD models, each of which brings new cosmetics and several new features, including a hardware-based always-on image stabilization system for the first time.

MSRP: FLIP ULTRAHD™ $199.99 – FLIP ULTRA™ $149.99 – FLIP MinoHD™ (2 Hr) $229.99 – FLIP Mino™(1 Hr) $199.99 (1 Hr) $199.00 – SlideHD $279.99

FLIP VIDEO™ is a trademark of Cisco

GADGETEER’S RATING:

H H H H H

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.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.

Revised 9/10/2010

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VHS to DVD VIDEO, MADE SIMPLE

VHS to DVD VIDEO, MADE SIMPLE

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT

It’s a good bet that you’re probably like many other people with a VHS or Betamax tape collection looking for an easy way to preserve tapes to DVD. How to do it, and at what price? ROXIO, the makers of Toast and many other useful software programs, recently introduced EASY VHS to DVD in a MAC and PC edition. Both systems work basically the same way. Since I’m a MAC person, I tested the MAC version.

The kit consists of a USB capture device with composite, S video and stereo RCA audio connections, USB extension cord, plus capture software and a basic version of Toast. Toast is a ROXIO program that makes burning a DVD, on your DVD burner-equipped computer, a snap. Toast is not supplied with the PC version.

Once the operating software is installed, simply plug the capture device into a USB 2.0 port on your computer. The software automatically detects NTSC and PAL sources, so no selection is required to determine the TV standard. When a deck, camcorder or other analog video device is plugged in and the software is selected from the application’s folder you will be directed to a step-by-step setup checklist that allows you to see and hear the source you have plugged in. After everything is verified to be working, you will be asked how long a segment you wish to record and if you would like to automatically stop at that preset time limit. This is a great feature and worth using since video downloads utilize very large amounts of hard drive space, and should you be distracted during the recording process, you won’t fill up the drive. You are also given the choice of quality, standard (1.8 GB per hour), or high quality, (2.7 GB per hour), that are MPEG-2 recordings. The next step is to start the playback of your source material and to start the recording process. Once the recording is completed you have three choices: send to Toast for immediate burning of a DVD; edit with iMovie software which came installed in your MAC, or Creator for PC, and not included in the ROXIO kit; send to QuickTime Player for creation and immediate playback in the QT format, handy for adding to iTunes and then syncing to your iPod or iPhone. If you opt to quit the program in a MAC your movie file will be found under users/name of hard drive/movies/Easy VHS to DVD capture. On a PC look for the file MY VIDEOS.

The use of this kit is so easy and quick, especially since you can make DVD’s without the use of complicated editing software, that copying your analog library becomes a breeze, even for the novice. Prior to purchasing either package be sure to check the system requirements at the ROXIO web site to insure your computer is up to the task.
I give the EASY VHS to DVD system three thumbs up. ROXIO products are available at retail locations and on-line. For more details go to roxio.com.

MSRP: $79.95 (MAC version) and $59.95 (PC version)


Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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DECT 6.0 and The VTECH DS6222-5 Cordless Phone

DECT 6.0 - CORDLESS PHONE TECHNOLOGY

and the VTECH DS6222-5 Cordless Phone

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

DECT, Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications, 6.0 is a new protocol and frequency standard used for cordless phone transmissions. The 6.0 version is designed for use in the USA, while other versions do exist for other countries and other purposes. The 6.0 version is the next generation step up from the 2.4 and 5.8 GHz systems and is 1.9 GHz. Unlike those systems DECT. 6.0 phones are virtually immune to most local interference including disruption of wireless internet, wi-fi, use. An extra layer of encryption that previous technology did not offer, keeps your personal communications safe and enhances security. The noticeable result is clearer calls without crosstalk interference. The addition of extra handsets is made easier and battery life may be extended as much as 30%.

One manufacturer that offers DECT 6.0 technology is VTECH. I recently tested their newest model, the DS6222-5, a five-handset system that includes a digital answering system. (The last digit indicates the number of handsets in the system) I found the sound quality to be greatly improved and in a 1650 Sq. Ft. condo constructed of steel and concrete walls, the transmission never faded or dropped out, nor were there any dead spots. Entering numbers into the 50 number directory is a snap since all entries made from any handset are automatically updated for use by all other handsets in the system. Handsets are automatically assigned an individual number from 1 – 12 depending on the number of handsets in the system, that appears in the display. A blue backlit display makes for easy visibility of the data information being shown as well as highlighting the numeric keypad in the dark. Incoming calls cause it to light up on all the handsets even when the ringer is turned off. In the event of a power failure, or dead battery, all stored directory information, phone preference settings, outgoing message and recorded messages are retained. An intercom feature allows one handset to contact another, or the transfer of a call to another handset. Some of the other features include: caller ID/call waiting; 14 minute answering machine; handset speakerphone that works exceptionally well; possible addition of optional handsets to a maximum of 12; conference outside calls to other handsets; any key answer; remote message retrieval; handset volume control; last number redial; page/handset locater; selectable ring tones; wall mounting bracket; compatible with hearing aid T-coil.

Two features need improvement. The wall mount bracket needs a compartment, or pocket to hide the excess cables of the line and power cords. The caller ID feature needs to offer a talking capability that announces the name and number of the incoming caller, a feature that is not available on any of the VTECH models, but is available on many competitive brands. I rate this feature high on my list of must haves in this day and age of nuisance calls. One caller ID feature that is nice is that all incoming call numbers are stored for future review unless you delete them. Also, during my two-month test, I had one handset fail. Simply unplugging the battery momentarily reset the phone and corrected the problem, a common solution for most of today’s electronics. It would also be nice if the directory capacity were increased to 100. All things considered I give the VTECH system one thumbs up and DECT 6.0, three thumbs up. VTECH phones are available at retail locations and on-line. For more details go to www.vtechphones.com

MSRP: $129.95

VTECH is a registered trademark of VTECH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, LTD.

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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A GRILL FOR CONDO-DWELLING BAR-B-Q ENTHUSIASTS

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

As one who lives in a high rise Florida condominium where gas and charcoal grills are forbidden by law, I find the availability of quality electric grills to be disappointing. Florida, Arizona and California probably lead in such condo-dwellings, but yet try to purchase an electric grill there, it’s near impossible!

In recent years I’ve located and tested a few electric models found on the web. Unfortunately, all were disappointing, including a well-known celebrity brand.

Recently, Weber introduced the Q 140, a moderately priced compact electric grill patterned after their Q Series gas models. This grill features an easily removable aluminum bowl liner that can be lined with foil to make clean up a snap (figure A); a stainless steel rod cooking grate that creates perfect sear marks and is dishwasher safe; 1560 (2000 European model) watts of heat created from two coils that are uniquely configured into six exposed rods that create the most even heat surface I’ve ever experienced in an electric grill (figure A); an over-sized, replaceable grease catch pan that eliminates the mess after the cooking experience. (You can also line this with foil and extend the replacement life of the disposable pan); cast aluminum construction, stainless steal and plastic throughout prevents rust and makes the unit very light weight. The lid has a built-in heat retention liner that reflects the heat back to the food being cooked. This also acts as somewhat of an insulator keeping the heat contained while minimizing the heat on the outer lid surface, a feature not often found on other grills. A multi-adjustable thermostat allows for a variety of heat settings.

Unfortunately, very few factory options are available. While the catalog refers to numerous such items for the “Q” Series, they’re actually referring to non-electric models only. I would like to see a griddle made available. Weber does offer an inexpensive model 6507 rolling cart ($55.00). Since the Q 140 is so compact I found the Rubbermaid # 7085 storage cabinet to work well too ($89.00). The grill nicely sets on the cabinet surface, and is easily stored and protected from the elements on the enclosed shelves below. While not supplied, casters can easily be added by the handy do-it-yourselfer. As for a griddle, several name brands are available. The trick is finding one small enough to fit the cooking grate. The thickness of such griddles prevents keeping the lid closed, thus much heat is lost in the cooking process. While a bit clumsy, I found the Emerileware cast iron reversible grill/griddle to work reasonably well ($35.00). When using any griddle attachment extreme caution should be taken, as the griddle, as well as the Q 140, will be very hot long after the food is cooked and the unit is shut off.

My overall experience was exceptionally good. The grill is extremely well built and virtually rust resistant. It’s very compact and heats up fast and evenly. Clean up is very quick due to the easily accessible and removable parts. I give it three thumbs up, my highest rating. The Q 140 should be typically a retailer item, but be prepared to special order it as I could not locate this model in stock at numerous Weber dealers I visited. Weber has an on-line store, but this item is not a selectable item. They do show a phone number, 800.446.1071 as an alternative to on-line ordering. Amazon U. S. and UK* do list this model. *A 220/240-VAC model is available for the European market. More details available at: weber.com. The Q 140, a well kept secret well worth the effort to locate it!

U. S. MSRP: $279.00

Weber and Q are registered trademarks of Weber-Stephen Products Company

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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ARE “Z buds™” FOR YOU?

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, CES, I had the opportunity to obtain a pair of Z buds™ Music Control™ ear buds manufactured by Zagg. For the uninitiated, ear buds are extremely lightweight headsets that fit in your ear and are used in products such as cell phones, ipods and virtually any other listening device.

Z buds™ were designed primarily for Apple products such as ipods and iphones. (Music Control only works with iphone) These buds and some of their features will, however, work with non-Apple products that use a 3.5mm four conductor mini plug.

The Z buds™ are well designed. They incorporate features like a noise canceling microphone that reduces ambient sounds from overpowering your speech when talking; a click button on the mic’s housing that can turn music on and off, or answer and hang up your phone calls; a two-click feature advances you to the next song; an in-line volume control that readjusts volume when the device’s volume is set to max; multiple sliders for cable length adjustment; a wide selection of ear bud adapters to fit all ears.

I tested these buds under various conditions and found the audio reproduction to be outstanding (30hz to 16Khz). A friend of mine with a hearing loss in one ear used them while driving home and commented that she could hear so much better. It’s important to note that the unique “hangin’ tight” neck-cord feature keeps them in place around your neck. (See illustration above) The materials used to construct the buds are top notch and include a heavy-duty 54” cable. The rugged construction revivals that of units costing many times over the MSRP of $79.95. I give the Z buds™ a thumbs up for a feature packed, quality product at an affordable price. Z buds™ are available with or without a mic, in black, red, yellow or pink at leading retailers and on line, zagg.com.

Apple, iphone and ipod are trademarks of Apple, Inc.

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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