In this feature, ITWeb Brainstorm has compiled a list of gadgets we rated as the top 10 CEO tech toys, plus a few more, that are highly recommended as great ways of making the working day that much more pleasurable.
It is the first-ever voice-capable PDA with integrated GPS navigation, and at the same time a global business and personal communication device small enough to fit any pocket.
Kaunda Chama, Features editor
We have not listed them in any particular rating order because all had their own merits depending on application and the environment the user is in.
The Dell 2405FPW
Any CEO who enjoys viewing movies or has time to play computer games will view Dell`s 24-inch wide 2405FPW flat panel screen as a great addition to desktop real estate.
The unit is targeted at early adopters and computing enthusiasts such as gamers and graphic designers (CAD/CAM and DCC). It is the largest PC display in Dell`s ultra sharp family of flat panel display range WUXGA (1920X1200). The unit supports both digital (DVI) and analogue connection. Its 12ms response enables crisp clear images when using the display for fast motion video such as gaming or video editing.
The S-video, composite and component inputs allow for CE connectivity. Users are able to connect gaming consoles, DVD player or cable box and view alternative source video with the picture-in-picture button. This gives the user the ability to work and play at the same time. This unit has many additional features, so the best way to experience them, is to try one out.
The i-mate JASJAR - pocket PC phone
This is close to being everything a CEO would ever want in a tech toy because of its size and features.
The device allows users to enjoy powerful Internet browsing, multi-media features and diverse connectivity options. The JASJAR offers an impressive set of features, including a full VGA screen, 520MHz Intel processor and 128MB of permanent memory built-in and Skype Internet telephony software.
It comes in a swivel-clamshell form factor with a QWERTY keyboard and VGA screen. The Windows Mobile 5.0 upgraded software means that information is stored on the device, even in a situation where its battery becomes depleted. As a phone, it has tri-band GSM/GPRS with WiFi and Bluetooth, and also connects to 3G (UMTS) mobile networks, automatically switching to the best network mode available.
Users are also given the ability to do video-conferencing and multimedia with dual cameras, built-in flash, large VGA-screen and dual loudspeakers for stereo sound and are even able to send photos and recorded videos comparatively quickly when connected to a 3G network.
In clamshell mode, the screen automatically adjusts to landscape for easy viewing and working on documents, managing e-mail or simply browsing the Internet.
Microsoft`s Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000
This keyboard could sell itself and as the name suggests, it is the software giant`s most comfortable keyboard thus far. Everyone needs their favourites at their fingertips and this is the perfect answer to those needs; ergonomically designed and with more than 20 shortcut buttons, this keyboard will provide the modern day CEO with endless hours of work and play.
The fifth generation iPod
iPod takes the portable music player concept to the next level. It is feature rich, has a 2.5-inch colour screen, which can display album artwork and photos, and also play video in almost all its forms, be it music videos, video podcasts, home movies or even television shows. This iPod has it all covered.
It is 30% thinner, but has 50% more storage space than its predecessor and features up to 20 hours of battery life for music playback.
The Apple Powerbook
Part of Apple`s PowerBook G4 range, this 17" notebook is aimed at business and creative professionals with high-resolution displays, comparatively longer battery life and a DVD burning SuperDrive. The book includes an ATI mobility Radeon 9700 graphics with 128MB DDR dedicated video memory and features built-in dual link support to drive Apple`s 30-inch Cinema HD display as an external monitor.
HP`s iPAQ
The HP iPAQ Pocket PC hw6515 combines the power of a PC, the connectivity of a phone, portability of a notebook, convenience of a map book and the handiness of a camera. It is also topped-off with the pleasure of a media player that plays MP3s and videos.
It is the first-ever voice-capable PDA with integrated GPS navigation, and at the same time a global business and personal communication device small enough to fit almost any pocket or purse, weighing in at only 165 grams.
The iPAQ comes standard with Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition software. Its Microsoft outlook compatibility includes calendar, e-mail and contact features. With high-end features such as GSM / GPRS / EDGE / Bluetooth technology and multiple messaging capabilities, the HP iPAQ hw6515 is geared to professionals who want access to their e-mail and business data seamlessly and securely, whether they are in the office or on the road.
Logitech`s QuickCam Pro 500 and stereo headset
What a great combination. The QuickCam and headset is perfect for either an important computer-aided business video-call, or just a time out chat with a member of the family.
As one of the top global webcams, the device has a tremendous low-light performance, because of Logitech`s RightLight technology. It also enables full screen live video with MSN messenger. The vendor`s RightSound technology also allows users to get echo-free sound with or without using the headset, although the headset provides for better privacy.
The webcam`s software comes with video effects avatars and face accessories that add flavour to conversations.
Western Digital`s portable USB drive
This little storage device is not too shabby for its size. It fits comfortably into one`s hand or pocket but packs an impressive 40GB of storage capacity. Whether it is documents, pictures, music or movies, this little drive has them available on the move.
It comes designed to handle a fall or two with its protective case and shock-tolerant hard drive. Powered by the USB bus, no separate power supply is needed with most systems.
Garmin GPS 10
A move towards convenience and simplicity, this GPS unit with Bluetooth wireless technology allows CEOs to get their global positioning from satellite signals and transmits their position to a Bluetooth phone, allowing navigation capabilities.
The Bose SoundDock
The Bose SoundDock digital music system is perfect for the music loving CEO who is in possession of an iPod. Just slip the iPod into the docking cradle for Bose quality sound. The iPod charges as it plays. Its sleek, slender design fits almost any room`s d'ecor and the included remote allows for control from way across the room. A host of proprietary technology adds vitality and realism to the tracks. With Bose proprietary acoustic design, one enjoys a full, rich sound that`s greater than would be expected from a system this small.
Notebooks, notebooks and more notebooks
We received such a myriad of notebooks that we had to take group photographs. The six featured here proved impressive in terms of size and performance.
The Acer Ferrari 4000 took top honours on the performance and spec side, while the Fujitsu Siemens` LIFEBOOK P7010, though not new to the market, scored high on size versus features and performance.
Other notebooks were the Sahara Somona NB7631, the HP Compaq TC 4200 tablet PC and PY416EA notebook as well as the MSI MegaBook.
Iomega ScreenPlay
This multimedia drive allows users to easily play stored movies or music and view digital photos directly on a TV or home entertainment centre without being connected to a computer.
One can simply copy files to the drive over a USB 2.0 connection. It produces high-quality video and audio, with fast transfer speeds and hot plug and play. Both the 2.5" and 3.5" format drives are easy to use and come with remote controls.
Additional advanced features include dual stereo analogue audio, which supports compressed Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS.
DWL-30 WiFi detector
The DWL-30 is a pocket-sized, slim device that helps users to quickly detect wireless network signals in a particular area. With the press of a button, this device can detect all WiFi signals. This wireless 2.4GHz WiFi Detector can detect WiFi hot spots in the vicinity, then indicate its signal strength via five built-in LED lights. It will detect 2.4GHz ISM band signals only. All other wireless signals, such as microwave oven and Bluetooth signals, are filtered out.
The Rolls Royce Phantom
To say that this vehicle takes driving to another dimension would be an understatement. The Phantom not only lives up to the Roll Royce name with authentic exterior design characteristics such as the long wheelbase and bonnet and imposing body size, but also boasts an interior design that finds perfect balance between classical elegance and modern day hi-tech components.
At the heart of the Phantom is its 48-valve, 6.75 litre V12 engine which delivers plenty of torque with the littlest of effort. It is able to accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 5.9 seconds.
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