As 2010 arrived today I wanted to set 7 personal goals for gadgets. Sure, most people want to lose weight, work out more, etc. but I choose to make a list of cool gadgets to have in 2010. Let’s get going, it’s the 1st!
1. Kodak Zi8 – Portable video camera or other?
This flip cam competitor made my list for 2 reasons; first is 1080p HD resolution (i know it’s not the same) and the second is a microphone input. Currently I use a Flip cam HD which has suited my portable video needs but without a microphone it is nearing extinction for me. As Affiliate Summit (trade show i attend) nears in January I was hoping to have a new interview camera but not sure.. The Kodak video camera came out in the Fall and being that CES (Consumer Electronics Show) is this month I want to see what is new. The flip cam category is very competitive and expect to see some advancements from all the video camera manufacturers. See on Amazon – Kodak Zi8 HD Pocket Video Camera
2. Canon VIXIA HF S11 Digital Camcorder
2009 was a challenging year and could not pull the trigger on a Canon camcorder but 2010 is going to be the year. The combination of the Canon Dual Flash Memory (64GB internal memory), 10x optical zoom, 8.59 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor, DIGIC DV III Image Processor and 1920 x 1080 Full HD Recording make this potentially the official video camera of ProjectGadget.com (hear that Canon?). In reading the reviews it will lead to new purchases of batteries, wide-angle adapter and of course tripods so see below.
3. Manfrotto Tripod Kit – 190XDB Tripod with 804RC2 Head
I have to admit I need some professional advice in this area as I really appreciate a quality tripod. The Manfrotto line is very nice but to the consumer looking at professional gear it can be confusing. My needs are for a quality tripod that I can use in the studio but with the flexibility for outdoor shoots. The ability to pan fluidly while shooting video is essential and leveling is key. I currently have multiple tripods and feel that you get what you pay for so if you have a recommendation for studio & travel please let me know. See on Amazon – Manfrotto 190XDB Tripod & 804RC2 Head
4. Toshiba Mini NB205-N325BN 10.1-Inch Netbook
Funny, when i purchased the Macbook Pro I swore I would never buy a pc again but with a price point of under $400, 9 hour battery life and realistic keyboard this is a great netbook to own. My need for this is to have a super lightweight option for trade shows to live blog and for mobile web surfing. Since I have the Verizon mobile broadband internet isn’t a problem and looking forward to owning a netbook!
See on Amazon – Toshiba Mini NB205-N325BN 10.1-Inch Netbook
5. Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch
Recently, I reviewed the Nike + running watch and realized that your running distance isn’t always accurate so had it with that technology. Apparently, I need to move to GPS technology to pinpoint my location. I have read all kinds of reviews on the GPS watches and this goes on my list for overall design vs. others on the market. I really like the interface and some interesting features are; automatic sync, wireless data sharing, course / workout features, heart rate (might need accessory band) and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
See on Amazon – Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Watch
6. SlingPlayer for iPhone Mobile Edition & Slingbox Pro HD
The iphone is great for entertainment and currently have an app that allows me to watch live Satellite TV from around the world. However, I want to choose my content and see DVR recordings so it’s time to purchase the Slingplayer HD unit and matching iphone app. The ability to pull content in HD format from anywhere in the world via the Internet is appealing to me as you can use your laptop as a personal HDTV monitor.
Slingbox HDPro (connect to your HD receiver)
7. Altered Pro-Line 600 Electric Skateboard
I was in Redondo Beach, CA this year (used to live in Hermosa Beach) and saw a guy on an electric skateboard with a wireless handheld controller and was really impressed. It’s been a few months and decided to look into my options. Of course, I could go with a standard longboard skateboard but without hills in Florida seems the fun could only last so long. So why not a powered electric skateboard? The answer is the Altered Pro-Line 600 Electric Skateboard and goes 0 to 19 mph in 4 seconds! With a 4 hour charge it goes 8-12 miles and weigh 40 pounds. Sure, it falls into the “do I really need this gadget” category but wow would this be fun. Next, I have to convince the wife….
Check out the YouTube video from Altered
Overall, I am psyched about my personal gadget goals for 2010 and please share yours by leaving some comments. You can find me at @projectgadget on Twitter and if you liked this post please subscribe to RSS Feed or receive by Email when a new post is added. Click here to return to project gadget to see some more cool stuff! Thanks for stopping by and Happy New Year! Cheers, Michael Vorel
