By Gregg Ellman
McClatchy-Tribune
With the IRIScan wired mouse, you get all the basics you want, from scrolling to left and right clicks. But what makes this mouse stand out is the option to use it for simple scanning.
The Windows (8/7/Vista/XP) compatible mouse’s quick setup includes the software CD and simply plugging in into your computer’s USB port.
It looks and measures just like any other mouse, is built with an ergonomic design to fit in your hand comfortably and has a small scanner visible on the bottom.
To scan, press the scan button and roll it over whatever section you want scanned into your computer. It only took me a few scans to get the right speed down.
Scans are done at up to 300 dots per inch so it won’t make an ideal solution for scanning your family photo archive. It does do a great job with business cards where you can drop them directly into programs such as Microsoft Word or Outlook for instant editing.
Also included is the I.R.I.S. optical character recognition software to edit your scans into PDFs, JPGs or other formats your programs will need.
For me, I see this as a great work travel accessory to keep up with those expense report receipts.
Details: $79, www.irislink.com
Calling all photographers
Think Tank Photo understands accessories for digital photography are always in high demand. Earlier this spring, the company introduced a few handy accessories to help your keep your camera bag organized, making it easier to navigate.
The Pixel Pocket Rocket folding memory card wallet ($18.75) holds up to 10 Compact Flash or smaller (SD/SDXC/XQD, etc.) memory cards.
Each compartment has a clear covering to identify what card is where, and the whole wallet folds up to fit in a pocket or camera bag. It is even tethered for extra security with the included hook.
The Pro DSLR battery holder ($17.50) is built to hold a pair of larger batteries in a similarly designed pouch that also folds up for easy storage.
For photographers using standard size DSLR batteries, the company also has the DSLR Battery Holder 4 ($16.50).
Furthermore, the innovative Low Rider Strap ($29.75) brings everything together when traveling.
At first glance, it looks like a standard shoulder strap and works great as such. But after attaching it to your shoulder bag, a unique split-pad strap design lets you attach the same strap to most rolling luggage handles.
After they are combined, you’ll have a much more balanced set of rolling luggage, with a low-set load.
As with any Think Tank product, they are incredibly well-designed and constructed with strong stitching, hardware and water resistant covering.
Details: www.thinktankphoto.com
Engines for your ears
When you buy a Ferrari, you expect luxury. And for a whole lot less than the four-wheeled version, $399 will get you luxury over your ears with the new Ferrari Cavallino T350 headphones by LOGIC3.
First the design and look: according to the company, they were inspired by the car’s careful craftsmanship, sumptuous leather and beautifully honed surfaces, and a just quick glance at them confirms this.
They are stunning in design and more importantly have a dynamic crystal-clear sound.
Inside each ultra-soft padded ear is a 40-mm driver, which has a closed-back design to seal the ear pads to help prevent the loss of music dynamics.
Along with the headphones comes one- and three-button in-line remotes for mobile and media players, designed with anti-tangle woven fabrics. A few other cables and attachments are included for just about any connection you need.
A hard case (with the Ferrari logo, of course) is included along with a pair of AAA batteries.
Details: Available in black or tan, www.ferrari-by-logic3.com
