Tech toys
Compiled by Gannett New Service
A stereo system that works with your PC
Onkyo has put together a $400 desktop music system that can play tunes on its own or with the help of a PC. The DW-S500 includes a desktop CD receiver, a pair of sharp-sounding slim speakers and a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection that lets you listen to MP3 and streaming audio through your computer.
The CR-N1 Desktop CD receiver sports an eight-character alphanumeric display, FM auto-scan tuning, 30 AM/FM presets, a remote control, jacks for hookup to TVs, VCRs and other components, and a timer with three settings. The D-N1 speakers feature a 3.5-inch Microfiber cone woofer and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter that help produce sharp sounds.
Information: onkyousa.com
Gadget finds popular road stops on journey
This handy gadget can help interstate drivers find restaurants, hotels, rest stops and the like on their journeys, though directions downloaded from the Rand McNally Web site aren't always the best way to go.
Turn on the handheld navigator, type the abbreviation for the state you're in, select the interstate you're on, pick the direction you're traveling and type in the number of the nearest mile marker. Then, depending on which button you select, the device will list the nearest gas stations, restaurants, camp sites, rest stops, hotels, malls and tourist sites.
The device comes with a connector cable, batteries, an instruction manual and a pocket atlas.
Information: triplink.randmcnally.com
Video coaches newbie Palm users
One reason that Palm personal digital assistants (PDAs) are so popular is because they're fairly simple to operate. Even so, some novices may want extra coaching. For people who prefer watching — rather than reading — instructions, the "Palm OS Training Video" from Mission Media Enterprises in Boise, Idaho, is one solution.
In this 113-minute production, a Palm expert helps viewers learn about handhelds running Palm operating systems, including those made by Palm, Handspring and Sony. The video, which can be ordered online, costs $19.95. Just like written owner's manuals, however, it only will do you good if you actually take time to review it.
Information: palmOSTrainingvideo.com
AA batteries work as Cs temporarily
Your child's favorite gizmo needs a new pair of C batteries. Of course, all you have on hand are AA batteries. You could brace yourself for a night of whining or a trip to an all-night supermarket. Or if you're in the know, you could put in a battery adapter that lets you temporarily use AA and AAA batteries as C and D batteries.
The adapter, which changes the size but not the power of the batteries, is included in Panasonic's deluxe set of Nickel-Metal Hydride rechargeable batteries. The set, which is available at Costco and BJ's shopping clubs, comes with six AA rechargeable batteries, two AAA rechargeable batteries, a fast charger and a C and a D battery adapter. Each set costs $25, and those who mail in the included rebate can cut the cost by $5.
Information: panasonic.com
Software helps kids score well on tests
Parents who want to help their children excel on standardized tests while still enjoying the fun of learning about science, art, music and other important subjects will appreciate the thinking behind Newton's Quest.
The new program from Knowledge Adventure consists of five main areas: Greeting Hall, Newton's Room, Your Own Room, Learning Capsule and Activity Capsule. The two-CD sets will be available for fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grades this month. Each set — there's one for each grade — costs about $30.
Information: education.com
