A Notebook's Companion
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As the functionality of modern notebooks increase, so does the need for having access to a range of peripheral devices to take advantage of the new developments. What with USB and Ethernet connectivity plus audio input and output, to mention just a few of the more recent improvements, users could find that some additional kit is required in order to get the full benefit. Recently I have had the opportunity to look at a possible solution from Gadgeter.com in the guise of its Notebook kit.
This product consists of a small case holding a number of items that should prove useful for the notebook owner especially when on the move. The case, measuring 14 x 12 x 5.5cm (W x D x H), is constructed of a sturdy, black nylon material. It has a zip running along three sides. Opening the case reveals compact foam padding with cut-out containers holding six items that could help the regular traveller.
For those who prefer using a mouse rather than the notebooks touchpad, there is a mini optical mouse with a retractable USB lead. This blue and silver rodent is of the two-button variety with a centrally positioned rubberised wheel. Sitting along the mouse in the case is a mini 4-port hub. It measures 9 x 3.8 x 1.1cm (W x D x H) and has a permanently attached 2.5cm lead. The hub supports USB 1.0/1.1 and gives a transfer rate of up to 12 Mbps while requiring no special drivers.
On the opposite side of the case are four leads of which two belong to the USB family. One lead is of the extender type that can be used to increase the distance between the computer and a USB 1.1 device. This lead, which retracts into a central compartment when not in use, can extend to 70cm in length. The second lead, which can also extend to 70cm, has a standard connection at one end to fit a USB port on the computer and a mini-style 5-pin connection at the other end. This means it is only really suitable for devices such as a digital camera or MP3 player.
Also expandable to 70cm is a mono headset with an in-your-ear piece. It has a built-in microphone and twin jacks for audio input and output. The final item is a 10/100 Ethernet cable that can extend to 120cm.
This kit has been priced at £19.95 which makes it a reasonable purchase especially when you realise that you would need to pay approximately £14 for just the mouse and hub that are included in the kit. It is small enough not to take up too much space and could prove extremely useful.
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