Off Duty, Technology - Marine Corps Times

Computer-powered chiller puts your drinks on ice

The CoolIT Beverage Chiller is even better than ice. Plug the beverage chiller into a USB port on a computer, a Microsoft Xbox 360 or a Sony PlayStation2 console. While you work on a computer or play games on a video game console, the USB device will keep your drink — be it a can of soda or a bottle of water — chilled to a refreshing 45 degrees. Cost: $30.

Flash drive provides secure portability

The DiskGO U3 Smart Flash Drive can make any computer seem like your home PC. The plug-and-play USB drive from Edge Tech includes software options that let you re-create your desktop on another PC without leaving any digital footprints behind. The drive makes it easy to send e-mail, play games and perform tasks you’d normally do on your own computer while working on another one. The password-protected drive can store PC settings, personal preferences and other files, including documents, images and music. A 512-megabyte model costs $30, a 1-gigabyte drive is $40, and a 2GB one, $60.

iPod cases support recycling

Eco-friendly techies can make a statement with Apple iPod cases made from tire inner tubes and leather. Designed by Passchal, a handbag company in Richmond, Va., the waterproof cases are fashioned from recycled truck and tractor tire inner tubes that have been collected, cleaned and crafted by hand. Priced at $55 each, the cases can hold 30GB and 60GB video iPods. Similarly styled DVD cases cost $64.

Microphone comes ready for sing-alongs

The DVD Karaoke Microphone from IXT Systems can turn an ordinary family room into a karaoke lounge. Plug the microphone into a TV, DVD player or stereo, and start belting out your favorite tunes. The system automatically mixes your voice with whatever music is playing and sends it back to the TV or stereo speakers. The M201 microphone comes with a DVD featuring 16 pop songs with lyrics that can be displayed on the TV screen. Or you can sing along sans any lyrics with your own collection of CDs and DVDs. The M201 microphone with a “Rockin’ Party” DVD costs $30. An M202 microphone with a DVD containing 60 holiday songs is $45.

Deborah Porterfield writes for Gannett News Service.