By Deborah Porterfield, Gannett Updated
You can update your emergency plans with the ReadyBox, a high-tech emergency supply kit. In addition to containing traditional emergency standbys, such as a flashlight and water, the kit also includes a universal phone charger powered by a hand crank. To make the kit easy to find, even when the power is out, the supplies are stored in a case that glows in the dark. Water rising? The water-resistant case is light enough to float, not sink. inside the case are sealed packs of nutrient-dense food, three one-liter boxes of water, an LED flashlight and radio, antiviral masks, medical supplies and protective thermal wraps. The kit costs $80.
Phone controls TV
Looking for yet another chore for your iPhone? The Beacon can turn your iPhone into a universal remote control. Designed to work with the iPhone, the iPad or the iPod Touch, the Beacon includes an AV remote control system from Griffin Technology and a remote control app from Dijit Media. Once the wireless system is set up, it transforms the Bluetooth signals on your mobile device to the infrared signals needed to control a TV, DVD player, media player and other AV components. using Dijit’s program guide, you can then use your device to change TV channels, lower the volume on the stereo or record a favorite show. The Beacon costs about $80.
- MORE: 10 gadgets for tech-savvy college students
griffintechnology.com
Earbuds can handle sweat
You can work up a sweat while working out to music delivered via Pioneer’s SE-CL331 earbuds. When you’re done, you can safely rinse off any perspiration from the water-resistant earbuds. Available in pink, blue, yellow and white, the earbuds deliver bass response with 9mm drivers and have an in-ear design that minimizes outside noise. The package includes a 3.9-foot cord, a carrying pouch and four different sized ear tips. They will go on sale this summer for about $60.
pioneerelectronics.com
Bracket keeps GPS unit in place
You can put your portable GPS in its place with a Universal GPS Window Mount from Bracketron. The package consists of a Grip-iT Universal Holder with adjustable wings that hold your mobile device and a Rotating Window Mount with a 9-inch flexible arm and a 360 degree rotating head for vertical or horizontal viewing. The holder can handle a variety of different-sized devices, including GPS devices, cell phones and satellite radios. The mount, which uses a suction cup, can be removed for use in different vehicles. it costs about $30.
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