THE SPARKLING DISHWASHER

THE SPARKLING DISHWASHER

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

I’ve tested many dishwashers over the years. My biggest complaint is that the dishes never have that sparkling look seen in the product and soap commercials, nor are heavily soiled items ever totally clean. Recently I tested one that really performs as advertised, and then some.

(TIP: Do not rely on exterior dimensions in determining if a specific model will fit under your counter. Tub configuration, such as, round or squared edges, can play a major role in calculating the final fit.)

The MDB7809AWM is an under-the counter, stainless exterior, model from Maytag. It features a stainless steel interior, resistant to rust and grime, a definite must-have, since this is the most common problem that determines the life of your machine. Two utensil racks may be easily mounted anywhere, however, mounting bottom right is preferred since this washer features a special high-pressure spray, Silverware Blast, aimed in that direction, with spotless results. Racks, upper & lower, as well as their accessories are adjustable for different size objects, a feature not commonly offered. This washer is outfitted with so many thoughtful features I could not possibly list them all.

Cycle & option selections appear somewhat intimidating at first glance. However, you’ll soon appreciate the benefits in deep cleaning and cost savings. These features include: Auto Clean Plus – Loads with heavy, normal, or light amounts of food soil; Heavy – Heavily soiled pots, pans, casseroles and tableware; Normal – Normal amounts of food soil; Light – China & crystal; Insta Wash – Quickly wash pre-rinsed glasses, or dishes; Rinse Only – Rinse loads that will not be washed immediately; Heat Dry – Extra heat drying; Sanitize – Raises time cycle & final rinse temp to 154°f. Steam Clean – Adds steam to the rinse cycle to deep clean & shine; High Temp Wash – Increases water temp during wash cycle.

(TIP: Use a product like “Finish Jet Dry”. Works with other features of this washer to give you that sparkling look. Dispenser with consumption gauge inside door.)

In my tests I used the Normal > Sanitize > Steam Clean settings. The results were always exceptional. The door has a tight seal, which makes it somewhat difficult to unlatch. This washer is well thought out. The inner stainless steel liner, handy interior features, superior construction and outstanding results make it a best buy.

(TIP: Any dishwasher needs periodic preventative maintenance. Products such as “Dishwasher Magic”, available at most supermarkets, remove lime scale and rust. They should be used in six-month intervals to prolong the life of your investment)

MSRP: $849.00 (non exterior stainless models are less)

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.

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A GREEN BLUETOOTH SPEAKERPHONE FOR YOUR CELL

A GREEN BLUETOOTH SPEAKERPHONE FOR YOUR CELL PHONE…

(and it works too!)

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

As we all know driving and using a cell phone is dangerous and perhaps even illegal, unless we have some form of hands free device. Most phones manufactured today offer a Bluetooth feature allowing external, wireless, accessories to be interconnected. I tested one such accessory by Scosche, known as the SolCHAT II.

The SolCHAT II is solar powered, however, a USB/DC plug is included for cloudy days. I’ve never resorted to its use even though my car is parked in an open-air garage under a building. The SolCHAT II also includes a housing that can mount the unit to your windshield via suction cups, or a visor clip, and makes it easy to remove the device from the mount when leaving the vehicle.

(TIP: Suction cup installation is probably the best, however suction cups will eventually detach from the glass surface. As a precaution, to minimize the possibility of loosing the speakerphone, I attached a small wire, such as a fishing leader, and connected it to the interior plastic windshield molding.)

A handy feature of the SolCHAT II is the ability to transfer up to 1000 of your phone’s contacts to the device. Doing so now permits audible caller ID and voice recognition dialing directly from your personal contact list, truly making this “hands free operation”. It is also possible to easily transfer in and out of the speakerphone mode for private conversations, naturally, when you are not the driver.

(TIP: How you names, last name first, or whatever, are entered into your phone’s contact list, will effect how the speakerphone recognizes, or announces the name via the caller ID feature.)

I found the SolCHAT II worked well with my iPhone, however, it should perform equally as well on most other brands providing they include Bluetooth technology. Since it’s powered by solar energy, or 12 volts DC, and offers a language selection that includes English, German, French, Italian and Spanish, it is a worldwide product. The built-in volume control offers sufficient range of audio levels for front seat operation. The only exception to this would be a noisy AC system, or having the windows down, both correctable scenarios when using the unit. The only other issue I found is that if you leave the vehicle, out of Bluetooth range, the device naturally disconnects from your phone, but remains powered up for a few minutes. Upon your return your phone will not reconnect and the SolCHAT II will automatically power off after ten minutes. I guess the auto shutdown feature out weighs a reconnect one?

The SolCHAT II is available on line and at retail, including the Apple store. For further details go to: www.scosche.com/products and select BLUETOOTH > HANDSFREE.

MSRP: $99.95

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.

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PUT YOUR OLD HARD DRIVE TO USE....

PUT YOUR OLD HARD DRIVE TO USE…

(So easy, even a cave man can do it!)

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

At some point everyone upgrades their computer’s hard drive to a larger capacity drive, or perhaps even replaces the entire computer for a faster model. So what do you do with the old hard drive? No doubt you’ve heard the warnings about discarding drives? Even if you think you’ve erased all the data hackers have the know-how and ability to access this hidden information. So what should you do? You could destroy the old drive with a hammer, or, better yet, use the drive as a spare external storage device for back up purposes.

(TIP: The use of a spare hard drive in the dock could be used to clone your computer’s main hard drive. Cloning would permit booting up from the docked back up drive in the event the main drive crashes. Carbon Copy Cloner is free software available for Mac’s that easily does the job. Similar software is available for PC’s.)

Cables Unlimited has come up with an easy external docking solution. If you have a SATA type drive, as identified on the ID label of the drive, and probably the newest and most popular model, you can simply snap it into the unique docking station. If you have an eSATA drive, a cable adapter is provided for external hook up. The DOCK accepts most 2.5 and 3.5” SATA drives. The front base includes a 2.0 USB hub with 2 ports, and flash card slots for reading MS/MS DUO, CF and SD/MMC type cards commonly used in many digital cameras. The rear base includes the USB output port, an eSATA port for the previously described supplied adapter cable, power jack and on/off switch.

(TIP: Never hot swap, remove the drive, while the computer is powered up. You may, however, hot swap the USB connection to the computer.)

Using the dock is very easy. Simply insert the 2.5” SATA hard drive into the dock. If you have a 3.5” drive, flip the guide latch up and place the drive into the connector at the bottom. To remove either size drive a handy pullout cover is provided which assists pulling out the drive, up and out of the connector, accomplished by pulling the cover towards you.

(TIP: If you do not have a SATA drive, or have compatibility issues with this device, numerous adapter cables and housings are available to accommodate most other drives, or even this one, if compatibility issue arise.)

Using a docking device, adapter cable or housing is very easy. If you can read a label, you can easily determine what type of hard drive you have. Matching the type to the gadget needed is then not difficult. You’re now saving the environment, protecting your old data and gaining extra storage capabilities at the same time.

I found the USB-2155 DESKTOP HDD DOCK by Cables Unlimited to be a useful device that works in both the MAC and PC platforms, as well as some Casablanca Editors and can operate on 100-240 VAC, 50/60Hz, with the supplied power adapter. Even though it’s plastic, with the proper care it should give years of service. Further details are available at www.cablesunlimited.com. The DOCK is available at retail and on line.

(TIP: Compatibility is always a concern when purchasing any computer peripherals. Always ask about the return policy before making the purchase. When you purchase a device test it immediately so you can return non-compatible items in a timely manner. After all, computers sometimes have a mind of their own)

MSRP: $59.95

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H

Carbon Copy Cloner for MAC available at http://www.bombich.com/

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.

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A LITTLE JUICE IS GOOD FOR YOUR iPHONE

A LITTLE JUICE IS GOOD FOR YOUR iPHONE

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

The iPhone 3G and 3GS are probably one of the best and most popular smart phones on the market today. However, anything electronic always has a downfall. In this case it’s the iPhone’s battery life. AT&T and Apple are quick to tell you to shut off things like 3G, wi-fi and many of the other neat features that we all paid for and want to use. Under normal circumstances I use the phone for incoming and outgoing calls ten, or more times a day. I probably use the Internet and/or email for about half an hour during this same period. My phone charges all night and begins its daily use cycle around 8 AM. Like clockwork, I can count on the battery being down to a 28% discharge by 7 PM. Apple indicates you should never let your phone discharge below 22%, as it will go into a safe mode that ceases all operations. Even the use of the AC adapter, or car cord has no effect at this point.

Mophie, an Apple products third party accessory provider, offers a simple and effective solution known as the “JUICE PACK AIR”. The JUICE PACK AIR is a shell that easily incases the iPhone and only adds a few ounces to the overall weight. In fact, I find the added weight and slight increase in size gives the iPhone a better, more secure feel. In this shell is a flat, non-visable/non-replaceable, battery that more than doubles your battery life and includes its own ‘charge remaining’ indicator. If size is not a consideration the original JUICE PACK, a model that is slightly bigger and provides a bit more charge, is also available.

(TIP: 3GS models have a setting under settings>general>usage that activates the percentage readout feature. The percentage appears next to your battery symbol on the top right of the home page)

When your battery approaches the 22% mark, you just turn on the JUICE PACK AIR with the switch on the bottom right edge. JUICE PACK AIR now begins charging your original battery while allowing full use of the phone. JUICE PACK AIR uses its own USB cable that charges both batteries and can sync your iPhone as well. Also available, but not tested by me, is the JUICE PACK TV that not only provides the extra battery power, but also includes live TV viewing. It requires an additional service provided by AT&T on a monthly fee basis.

I’ve tested the JUICE PACK AIR and find it works well. The extra weight and size better fits my grip and makes it less likely to be dropped. The design is much better than some of the other products available. They attach like large appendages that can easily break off, and make for a clumsy phone. The USB cable supplied is too short, a problem plaguing most iPhone car cords and the Scosche Bluetooth speakerphone, a gadget I will review in a future article. I give the JUICE PACK AIR five stars since it’s well built, works exceptionally well and seems to be the best external battery pack available.

It’s interesting to note, Mophie is currently developing the MARKETPLACE, a magnetic strip reader for the 3G and 3GS iPhones. This device looks much like the JUICE PACK, but will read credit cards and automatically send electronic receipts to the customer. The Apple stores currently use a similar device in place of checkout counters, so Apple associates all carry one. JUICE PACK AIR is available on-line at www.mophie.com and at retail, including the Apple store.

MSRP: JUICE PACK AIR $79.95 • Original JUICE PACK $99.95

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H

(TIP: Always return to the Home Page prior to putting your iPhone to sleep. Failure to do so causes the application to continue running in the background thus further draining the battery)

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.

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ONE CLICK, HOT DRINKS...

ONE CLICK, HOT DRINKS…

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Everyone enjoys some form of hot drink, whether it’s coffee, hot, or iced tea, hot chocolate, or your own wonderful concoction. The problem typically is the mess you create and the time it takes to make it all come together. Keurig, one of several hot drink brewer device manufactures, has a unique answer. Imagine, no more scorched pots, hot burners, or cooked brews.

Recently I tested two of Keurig’s one-cup brewers. My favorite, for reasons that will become obvious, is the model B155. This gadget has an easily refilled reservoir that holds 90 ounces of water. It can dispense any of four-cup sizes, 4, 6, 8 and 10 ounces. When left on, there’s no fire hazard here, a fresh cup of whatever is less than one-minute away. In home settings it’s easy to shut down the system during non-use periods to conserve energy, since heating the reservoir only take a few moments.

Here’s how it works. Plug the brewer into 120 volts AC, fill the detachable water container and power up. The heating process will now take place. When ready, the interactive touch screen display alerts you to the ready status. Place your cup, or glass below the brewer on the removable spill tray, lift the brewer handle, insert your K-Cup selection from dozens of brews available, and place the handle back down. Now the interactive display will ask you to select the cup size, then press the BREW button below the display and walla you have your hot drink in a matter of seconds. Since the brewer dispenses hot water thru the brewer container it’s possible to make drinks without the use of K-Cups by simply adding the ingredients to your cup or glass. It’s quick to see that you’ll never have over-brewed, stale, or leftover drinks, and clean up is virtually nothing. A word of caution, the K-Cup holder uses an upper and lower sharp needle to puncture the K-Cup, so care must be taken when cleaning this area to avoid injury. Descaling, a process to remove mineral and calcium deposits built up from your local water supply, is recommended every 3 – 6 months and easily accomplished.

A wide variety of K-Cup brews are readily available at grocers, retailers and on-line. Each single cup made offers individual drinking pleasure of your favorite brew. Seasonal flavors like pumpkin are also offered.

I also tested Keurig’s “Mini Personal Brewer”. It incorporates the same brewing method as all the other models, however, does not have the reservoir feature thus requiring individual water fill-ups. It also features a cup detection sensor that prevents spillage if no cup were present. This is a feature that should be added to the B155 previously reviewed. All Keurig models are designed for commercial and residential use with ground plug power connection.

One of many options available, while not tested by me, looks very interesting. The Café One-Touch stand-a-lone Milk Frother makes frothed, or warm milk at the touch of a button and would probably be nice for cappuccino style coffee, or a special cup of hot chocolate. ($79.95)

These two Keurig models are superior, well-built products. They do what they claim, are easy to use and require virtually no after-use clean up. I give them a well-deserved three thumbs up. These brewers, as well as other models, are available at retail shops and on-line. Further details available at: www.keurig.com

MSRP: B155 $249.99 – Mini $89.95 – JUST RELEASED Mini Plus $99.95

K-Cups average 64¢ each (Available in larger quantities at discounted prices)

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

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LIGHTWAVE – Lighting Up Your Life… and Your Paperback Too.

LIGHTWAVE – Lighting Up Your Life… and Your Paperback Too.

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Many of us are insomniacs and wind up reading in bed. The problem, how do you read without disturbing your significant other? The answer, perhaps, is the series of LIGHTWAVE products known as LightWedge.

Reading lights are certainly not new, however, finding one that actually allows you to easily read and not disturb others is the trick. I recently tested the LightWedge Paperback LED book light from LIGHTWAVE. It’s sized to fit mass-market paperback books and features a viewing area of 7 x 3.75 inches. You simply lay the page-sized, acrylic lens over the page and two bright LED’s shine light thru the plastic lens’ edge thus lighting the entire page evenly with virtually no spillover. Four triple A batteries provide forty-hours of reading pleasure. Its compact size, lightweight construction weighing only 6.5 ounces and a fabric case makes it ideal for travel, or home use.

I found this gadget to exceed all my expectations. My only caution is the acrylic surface scratches easily and I found the batteries a bit difficult to install. I give the LightWedge three thumbs up because it does its job well.

The LightWedge is available in several sizes at retail shops and on-line. For more details go to www.lightwedge.com.

MSRP $24.95 (Paperback model)

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

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THE HOT PET CARRIER THAT’S ALSO PRETTY COOL…

THE HOT PET CARRIER THAT’S ALSO PRETTY COOL…

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Transporting pets safely has always been a worry for pet owners, especially when flying. Komfort Pets, a Massachusetts based company, offers a climate controlled solution, the Komfort Pets Carrier II.

The Komfort Pets Carrier is a pet crate that comes with a fold-down handle, in three sizes; small for pets under 10 pounds, medium for pets under 30 pounds and large for pets under 60 pounds. It’s made of durable plastic, stackable with the use of an optional adapter and available in a selection of four colors.

What makes the Komfort Pets Carrier unique is the ability to climate control your pet’s environment while being transported in the carrier. The base of the carrier contains a sealed climate control module which when powered up from an optional 3 hr battery pack, or the provided external 12 volt power source, automatically produces warmth when the outside temperature reaches below 55°f (13°c), and cooling when the temperature exceeds 72°f (22°c). The temperature changes take place on a plate mounted on about 2/3rds of the center of the carrier’s floor. Since nature has provided pets with a fur coat, the unprotected belly of the pet makes contact with this area and provides cooling, or warmth throughout the body resulting in climate comfort for your pet. It’s somewhat the same as when your pet lies on a cool concrete floor in the summer, or your carpet in the winter. You could call it a dual conduction/convection system. Since direct contact with this area is required, the use of cushions, or a lining, is not suggested. An optional perimeter pad that does not make contact with this area is available for added comfort. The carrier’s design includes a groove and an insertable sponge that absorbs as much as 16 ounces of liquid and is very easy to clean. Side mounted seatbelt holders are provided to secure the carrier in your car.

I tested the original Komfort Pets Carrier. This model, while supplies last, has most of the stated features with a slightly different control panel. The model II, available late summer of 2010, incorporates LED indicators combined with an on/off switch and fan only mode. I found the automatic temperature control to perform well. The construction of the carrier is excellent and the addition of the cooling module seemed to add very little extra weight. Since a cigarette lighter DC cord is supplied with a 110 volt power supply (voltage converters for 220/240 volt use work well for European applications) the need for the optional battery pack would probably be limited to air travel where a 12 volt source may not be available. The pet carrier is FAA compliant and so far two airlines, JAL and Continental, have agreed to provide 12-volt connections in the future, a trend that will hopefully catch on.

I think the Komfort Pets Carrier is a unique product that fills a void in transporting pets. It works well, is affordably priced, well built and provides superior comfort for the traveling pet. I give it three thumbs up. The Komfort Pets Carrier II will be available at warehouse clubs, pet shops and on line directly from the manufacturer. For more details go to Komfortpets.com.

MSRP: $149.00 - $199.00 - $249.00 depending on size

Note: Always use careful judgment when leaving your pet unattended in any environment that could potentially become too hot or cold. Do not leave any pet unattended in a vehicle.

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

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