2010 Gadget Gift-Giving Guide

Powerful Projection Performance
When it comes time to put your PowerPoint deck, images or other files on the screen for everybody to see, the Epson EX7200 can help you do it with style, power and cost-effectiveness. The projector offers widescreen performance at up to 1280x800 resolution, plus 2600 lumens of light output for brilliant true-to-life color even in well-lit boardrooms. The system connects to your laptop via a simple USB connector, with no other setup required. You can even use it without a computer, sharing images and other files from USB flash thumb drives. (www.epson.com)

Multi-Monitors Made Easy
Many studies have shown that having two or more monitors can greatly improve productivity. For accounting and tax pros, think about having your tax application open on one screen, with supporting client documents on another, and even a research program open on a third. Not too long ago, it took a bit of tech savvy to add monitors, but not anymore. If you can plug in a USB cable, you have the skills to use the Sewell vDeck USB to VGA External Display Adater to instantly add a monitor or two, or even more, to your desktop. Don't stop with your work desktop, though. The handy little connectors are also great for laptops and netbooks, and are a great gift idea for computer gamers and social network fans. Once you get used to a multi-screen setup, you'll never want to go back. $69.95 (www.sewelldirect.com)

Does Your PC Need a Tune-Up?
Most people have their car periodically serviced, but few routinely do the same for the PC. If your computer is taking longer to start up, suffers from mysterious errors or crashes, your Internet is sluggish or you’re having problems loading programs or media, it may not be a big bad virus, it may just be time to have System Mechanic from iolo Technologies take a look “under the hood.” The software quickly runs more than 200 critical tests to discover what’s decreasing your system’s performance. $39.95 (www.iolo.com)

FOR THE ROAD WARRIOR

Speed Your Way through the TSA
Whether you’re traveling on business or pleasure, if you’re bringing along your laptop, you’ll want to protect it. And what better way than with the Checkthrough Executive Brief from Skooba Design. The sleek and smoothly contoured case meets the “checkpoint friendly” requirements of the TSA, which can help you spend less time going through airport security. Other cool features include almost two dozen pockets and compartments, including the Doc Pocket ticket/passport holder, a divided file section, key ring, USB thumb drive caddy and more tools for the airborne road warrior. It won't get you past the pat-down, though ;( -- From $149 (www.skoobadesign.com)

Is Your Laptop Chillin?
Whether you’ve got the hottest, newest PC or Mac laptop, or one a few years older, it’s important to keep it cool … literally. The Travel Chill Mat from Targus can be used on a table, your lap or any other surface to help prevent your portable computer from overheating. With dual fans that provide ventilation to disperse heat, the device has soft neoprene material that cushions the device and also offers comfort for the user. The Chill Mat is powered simply by plugging in the USB cord to your laptop, and it fits easily in a laptop case. $29.99 (www.targus.com)