Logitech io Personal Digital Pen ( 965102-0100 )
by Logitech
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (08 November, 2002)
list price: $199.99 -- our price: $97.14
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Using MyScript Notes software, the io Personal Digital Pen transforms handwritten notes into computer readable files, including text, tables, and drawings. It recognizes natural handwriting, numerous geometrical forms, arrow and tables.With the Logitech IO personal digital pen, your handwriting becomes an effective tool for the digital world--without changing the way you work. Write or draw on special digital paper and your words and images are both inked on the paper and stored in the pen's memory. To transfer these handwritten documents to your PC, place the pen in its cradle and download them. Then, easily share, store, organize, and retrieve them.

The Logitech IO digital pen remembers everything you write when you are away from your PC. In addition to a regular ink cartridge, it includes an optical sensor that captures your words and drawings. A built-in processor digitizes your handwriting, storing up to 40 pages in memory between downloads. Based on functionality from Anoto, the Logitech IO digital pen encodes on the basis of microscopic dots printed on the paper. Since it always knows exactly where you are, you can even accurately edit the original page at a later time. Use Post-it Notes and Cambridge Limited notebooks enabled with the Anoto functionality to capture your thoughts.

Protect your information with electronic copies, so you'll never forget or lose handwritten documents again. Find the information quickly with your PC's indexing and searching functions. Even have your handwritten notes available on the road. Simplify your organization by writing calendar entries into your electronic organizer and adding handwritten tasks to your electronic to-do list.

Improve communication by circulating hand-drawn sketches and drawings and meeting or class notes without photocopying. Write e-mail when you're away from your computer for automatic sending on download. The Logitech IO digital pen comes with a rapid-charging USB cradle, an AC adapter, helpful software, five ink refills, one Mead Cambridge Limited Notebook, one 3M Post-it Notes Pad, and a two-year limited warranty.

How it works
The Logitech io digital pen looks and feels just like an ordinary ballpoint pen and you use it in the same way. There are no keys to press and no display. You activate the pen simply by removing the cap and deactivate it by replacing the cap. Then you write on digital paper the same way you write on regular paper. The main parts of the digital pen are a digital camera, an advanced image-processing unit, and a communication unit. It also contains an ink cartridge so that you can always see what you have written or drawn.

Optical sensor captures everything you write Processor digitizes your words and images Rapid-charge USB cradle transfers digitized data to your computer Ink cartridges let you write like you normally do Memory stores up to 40 pages between transfers Battery lasts up to 25 pages between recharges Cap controls on/off -- remove to turn on, replace to save battery

Your handwritten notes are quickly and easily converted into text.

FAQs

How does the Logitech io digital pen work with digital paper to capture handwriting?
When using digital pen and paper, a tiny camera in the pen registers the pen's movement across the grid surface on the paper and stores it as series of map coordinates. These coordinates correspond to the exact location of the page you're writing on.

How much memory does the pen have?
The pen has 2 megabytes (MB) of memory, of which 1 MB is dedicated to storing pen stroke information and paper definitions. The remaining memory is used to store handwritten documents and can be erased when you download your handwritten documents.

How many handwritten pages does the Logitech io hold?
The pen can hold up to 40 pages of handwritten content before needing to download the content to the computer. A page is defined as 29 lines of handwritten text.

Will I lose any of my documents in the pen if the battery dies and I don't recharge it right away?
No, the information is stored in a non-volatile flash memory, meaning the contents remain until you download the documents to the computer or reset the pen using a Master Reset procedure.

What type of ink refills should I use with the pen?
You can get ink cartridge refills at local office supply retailers, provided the refills are ISO 12757-1 D1 compliant.Only use ink refills that do not contain carbon because carbon ink can hide the dot pattern on the paper. You can always purchase ink refills from Logitech that are guaranteed to work with your pen by visiting www.logitechio.com.

Does the cradle have to be plugged into an electrical outlet to work?
Yes. You must make sure that the cradle is plugged in to both an electrical outlet and your PC. You'll know everything is connected properly when the battery status LED indicates that the pen is charging.

Is the pen for left- and right-handed users?
Yes. Whether you are a left- or right-handed user, you can write with the pen.

Do I have to hold the pen in a special way?
You don't have to hold the pen in any special way, but it is important to make sure the pen is positioned so that the sensor is in back of the ink cartridge tip, not in front of or on the side of the ink tip.As long as the sensor is in back of the ink tip, you can tilt it in any direction and the pen will still record your writing.

If my pen is lost, can someone else see the information I've written with it?
No. The information cannot be downloaded without the supplied cradle and AC adapter. However, if your pen, cradle, and power adapter are also lost, then the information can be downloaded.

Does the Logitech io work on a Macintosh?
Currently, the pen is supported only on the PC platform.

Can the memory by upgraded to store more information?
No, the pen's memory capacity has been optimized for its intended use.

How long is the warranty?
The Logitech io features a two-year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Compatible with Windows 98, Me, 2000, or XP
• Ball-point pen that digitally captures everything you write or draw
• USB cradle lets you download your notes in handwritten form to your PC
• Files notes and drawings in Word 97 or later
• Enters appointments and "to do" items into e-mail programs

Reviews (42)

Home made magic paper for the pen
Hi,
I have an idea, not sure if it will work. Has any one tried printing out a paper filled with closely placed very fine dots and then used it to write on instead of the magic paper? The pen uses the dots on the magic paper to capture whats written on the paper. So I was thinking maybe if we print out a paper filled with closely placed dots, maybe the pen will recognize the writing.

I havent tried it, but I wanted to know if anyone has tried it...

It would be nice if one of you could try it and let me know if it works

Thanks
DD

THIS IS A GOOD PRODUCT BUT,IM VERY DISSAPOINTED AT AMAZON
OK, so I love this product but I've but submitted two way lower price requests, and the price have not declined by even 1Cent! If you really want this go to http://store.yahoo.com/justdeals/9651020100nr.html

Signing up for a "digital paper addiction"?Don't think so!
First problem: THIS ONLY WORKS WITH THE MAGIC PAPER !

That's right, after the 60 pages of paper that ship with the pen run out, you have to buy special paper (80 sheets for $10, plus about $6 S/H, which works out to $0.20 cents per page).

The pen does not digitize anything you write on regular paper.So this really is the gift that "keeps on giving"... Personally, I require far more flexibility than being forced into using certain specialty paperstock - exceptionally expensive paperstock at that.Where I'm from, we'd call this a scam.

Beyond that, I was unimpressed with the ergonomics of the pen.It's fatter than most big marker pens, so it was difficult for me to write with - it felt awkward and my handwriting simply didn't flow well.

If you must have this sort of product, I'm sure it will work quite well for you.I have no comments to make on how it functioned on a technical level.For me, the pre-conditions were a deal-breaker.This was one holiday gift I sent back in a hurry. ... Read more

Asin: B00006JP23
Subjects:  1. Accessories (Accessory)   

Hewlett Packard Jornada CompactFlash Digital Camera Module
by Hewlett Packard
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $169.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Turn your HP Jornada Pocket PC into an imaging productivity tool
• CompactFlash Type 1 card
• Capture images and add a personal touch by recording voice with it
• Attach images to e-mail and share with friends and colleagues
• Includes optical and digital viewfinders, thumbnail indexing, and a swivel lens that can be rotated 180 degrees for self-portraits

Reviews (8)

Convenient for medium duty digital camera
Great tool for taking quick pics as long as you don't need high res or macro focusing capabilities. takes pretty decent pictures if lighting is good, and it obviously beats having no picture if you're not one to carry a camera around. You can't beat always having it with you, which is where your Jornada is if you depend on the PDA the way I do!...check out hp.com or best buy for much better price

a great little gadget
ok....with the hp jornada 525....it kinda [wasn't good], but it was the pda not the camera...the 525 is a great little pda but it doesn't have the resolution to use the camera well! when i got my jornada 568 this little gadget takes pretty good pictures, much lighter and clearer than on the 525!really glad i held onto it cause this tiny little accesssory is easy to carry and i can take pictures anytime i want...it has lots of setting for night, action, zoom ect....being a nurse at a nursing home there are alot of wonderful moments when i say why don't i have a camera,,,now i do!

Good Pictures and a Great Space-Saver
This is not a professional-grade digital camera with lots of bells and whistles and a manual which requires a masters degree in photography to read. This is a convenient, easy to use, and compact camera for people like me who occassionally like to take pictures. Best of all, if you always have your Jornada with you anyway...now you can have a digital camera, too, without making extra space in your purse or pocket.

This is one of my favorite accessories for my Jornada.As mentioned before, there is no flash.Pictures taken in low-light will therefore be grainy and generally low-quality.But in good lighting, especially in daylight, this camera takes beautiful pictures.The maximum resolution is 640x480, and I've found that to be more than adequate for casual photography.At that resolution, with the highest quality settings, and in daylight...this camera will take pictures rivaling top standalone digital cameras.The pictures are extremely web-friendly and look great on a web page.

The software included with the camera is very good.You can leave the settings on "auto" in most cases and get great results.If you experiment (or know what you're doing), you can use the manual settings to achieve better results in low-light conditions and other special circumstances (such as capturing fast motion).The zoom feature, as with most digital cameras, achieves only marginal results.It's nice to have, regardless.

There are a lot of other features in the software that offer good flexibility and power.All the basic functions are there--shutter speed, exposure, gain, etc.

I suggest the first thing you do is pump up the image quality and size of your pictures to maximum.Each picture will take more free memory on your device, but the quality is worth it.You can always transfer your images to a storage card between photo-ops.

The camera, itself, is very small.It's a painless addition to carry, and is well-protected in the included case.I love the fact that you can use it without opening the cover on your Jornada, if you choose to.We all know how difficult the Jornada screen is to see in the sunlight.The built-in viewfinder and shutter button let you operate your Jornada just like a regular camera.Simply turn it on and it's ready to point and shoot.

I have taken hundreds of pictures with my Jornada and have been very happy, sometimes even amazed, with the results.I've received "oohs" and "ahhhs" from people who use professional grade digital cameras costing hundreds more.But for me it's the genuine portability that really makes it worth the price.

I use my Jornada for just about everything.It is my address book, calendar, planner, MP3 player, photo album, alarm clock, movie player, game machine, notebook, organizer, spreadsheet, checkbook, oven timer, calculator, Internet portal, safe, alarm clock...well, I could go on but you get the idea.And with this accessory, it is my digital camera, too.

I appreciate the feature of being able to record a voice memo along with a picture.I've used this feature to do comparison shopping in stores.I'd find a product I was interested in, take a snapshop and record where I found it and how much it cost.There are so many ways to use it!

Sure, a standalone digital camera might take better pictures.Might.But thanks to my Jornada and accessories like this one...I'm able to carry a very small purse and still carry more devices than most people could fit in a duffel bag.A big one.

- Heather ... Read more

Asin: B00005J7L6
Sales Rank: 25369
Subjects:  1. Personal Digital Assistant (PDA, Electronic Organizer)    2. Pocket PC (PCs)    3. Hewlett-Packard (Hewlett, Packard, HP)    4. Handheld (Hand Held)    5. Hewlett-Packard    6. (HP)    7. (Hewlet Packart)   

Casio CompactFlash Digital PDA Camera Attachment
by Casio
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $199.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Turn your Cassiopeia E-115, E-115, E-125,E100, E100, E100R, E105, E105, E105R, EG-800STD, and EG-80STD into a digital camera. With the Digital Camera Card from Casio, your Cassiopeia can take still or movie images and even send them to friends and family in e-mail.

The JK-71ODC incorporates a CCD (image sensor) with 350,000 pixels and an f/2.8 fixed-focal-point lens with macro position. The focal range in the normal setting is 0.78 maters, and in the macro mode it is 10 centimeters. Other features include a shutter speed of 1/30-1/1,000 second and a recording mode with a single image or a continuous image/movie. The E-100 and E-105 have a battery life of 45 minutes of continuous recording when using the Digital Camera Card. The Digital Camera Card weighs only 1.6 ounces.

Still images are stored in JPEG file format, while the movie images are stored in the CMF (Casio movie file) format. A movie can be played on a PC by using Mobile Video Player for PC software, which comes with the Digital Camera Card. ... Read more

Features

• Compatible with Casio Cassiopeia E-100 series, EG-800STD, and EG-80STD
• Turns your PDA into a digital camera
• Includes driver for the Cassiopeia viewing program
• Bundled software let you capture stills and minimovie images for e-mailing
• Supports JPEG (still shots) and CMF (movie) formats

Reviews (8)

For the gadget geek in all of us
No one is a bigger gadget geek then me.I love innovated products and rather have a gadget over diamonds any day.With that said, I fell in love instantly when I saw the Casio's Pocket PC with the Camera attachment at a business meeting.From the moment I purchases my own (in 2000) I knew I would find multiple uses for my new toy.

I will be completely honest; this device does not take the greatest pictures in the world!HOWEVER, this camera has been a lifesaver on many occasions. I have met stars unexpectedly and taken pictures with them, stored pictures of my home to compare items in the store, endless job related purposes. It also came with video caption software and you can take 30 seconds of video and transfers it to your device and link up to your computer. Especially living in New York City, you just don't know what you're going to see! You can also transfer pictures from your pc to the handheld to cherish your favorite pictures on your mobile device.My only complaint is you have to have good lighting and you have to be completely still you get a decent photo. As for printing the pictures, the smaller you print the pictures the better the print.I never excess 4 x 6 prints and usually print 3 x 5.

This camera is for someone you love gadgets, loves pictures, and just loves to show off.No matter where I go people (including stars) always seem to be impressed with this device.Most important I'm impressed and I look forwarded for Casio to create one with better resolution. I purchase this about two years ago and I'm still happy with it. The price has dropped from when I obtained mine so that's even more reason to get this. Sometimes you don't have room in your bags or briefcase for a separate camera, and with device your camera is where your handheld pc is!

NOTE: Keep in mind if you need a digital camera then this is not for you the resolution is too low. Strictly for the gadget geeks.

Dazzling
I give it 5/5 starts for the following reasons:

1) User friendly, not complicated at all.
2) One of the lightest cameras doesn't add weight to your device.
3) Excellent quality, it is Casio ;)
4) Flexible, it can be rotated in different positions with focus.
5) Price! Because I got 50% OFF ;)
6) It supports Siemens SX45, and I am using it.

Check for compatibility if you are interested you can visit casio for additional information.

Have fun...

Nifty but poor picture quality
Very cool gadget for the Cassiopeia but the picture is indeed rough especially when blown up on a PC.Photo quality is also dim without sunlight.Definitely not for pro or serious photo shoots.Okay for casual image capture.You may have to wait until they come up with higher pixels.... ... Read more

Asin: B00004T2LF
Subjects:  1. Personal Digital Assistant (PDA, Electronic Organizer)    2. Pocket PC (PCs)    3. Casio    4. Handheld (Hand Held)   

SanDisk 64 MB MultiMedia Card (SDMB-64-470)
by SanDisk
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $49.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

SanDisk MultiMediaCard is the ideal storage medium for portable, battery-powered devices. It extends system battery life because it is nonvolatile, requiring no power to maintain the stored data. ... Read more

Features

• Holds 64 MB of data
• Designed for portable Internet music players, smart phones, and digital camcorders
• Guaranteed compatible with all MultiMediaCard (MMC) devices
• Very small: measures 32 x 24 x 1.4 millimeters
• Lifetime warranty

Reviews (22)

Bought it and forgot it!
Last July we purchased a Kodak DX3700 digital camera.I ordered the SanDisk 64 MB multimedia card, put it in the camera, and basically never thought about it again, because it works flawlessly.I have over 500 digital photos on my computer which I have taken since I bought the camera and this multimedia card and have never had any problems.

BAD PRODUCT
I bought a SanDisk card thinking that the quality brand name would guarantee quality product. Instead after only 7 months of use within my MP3 Player from DIGISETTE, the memory is corrupted!! It's not recognized by the MP3 player nor a PC USB MMC reader.
You expect it to work for a long time when you buy from a brand leader, not only 7 months.

Sandisk defined the specification, hello
Sandisk and Seimens Electronics co-developed
MMC technology. So if this card does not work
in your *box*, give the maker of your toy a bad
review.Sandisk is the gold standard for
MMC technology. If this card does not work
in your application nothing else "should" work. ... Read more

Asin: B00005A3HJ
Subjects:  1. Computer Memory    2. Memory Cards    3. Multimedia Card (Cards)   

Viking 64 MB MultiMedia Card
by Viking Components
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $67.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Optimized for use in PDAs, MP3 players, or digital cameras
• Lightning fast read and write speeds allow you to get the best performance from your PDA, MP3 player, or digital camera
• High quality components guarantee steady performance, the utmost durability, and breadth of compatibility
• Individually tested to ensure each product works the first time, everytime
• Five year replacement warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee

Reviews (15)

Great Quality and cheaper than many
This card holds many pictures on my 2 megapixel camera and they are of great quality too.

Not for Intel 3000
Does not work with Intel Personal Audio Player.

Defective
I bought this memory card for my MP3 player and it could not be formatted or read by it.I had to return it to the company, pay the shipping costs, and wait for them to send me another one.Supposedly these things are reliable for 5 years, I couldn't get it working for even 1 second. ... Read more

Asin: B0000541NM
Sales Rank: 5925
Subjects:  1. Multimedia Card (Cards)   

Viking CF256M 256 MB CompactFlash Card
by Viking Components
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $74.99 -- our price: $25.17
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Five year replacement warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee
• Optimized for use in PDAs, MP3 players, or digital cameras
• Write speed guaranteed to exceed 1.2 MB per second (8X) with independent test results exceeding 2.25 MB per second (15X)
• High quality components guarantee steady performance, the utmost durability, and breadth of compatibility
• Individually tested to ensure each product works the first time, everytime

Reviews (204)

Never had any problems
I have several of these, and I've never had any problems with any of them.I've used them in my Canon camera and my Nex1a MP3 player; both work fine, and are interchangeable.

FOR NOW BETTER THAN OTHERS FOR COOLPIX 3100
I HAVE A NIKON COOLPIX 3100 WHICH IS QUITE SLOWWRITING PICTURES TO THE COMPACT FLASH (CF) CARD, LEADING TOA CONSIDERABLE DELAY FOR THE NEXT SHOT.
BEFORE THIS VIKING I OFTEN USED OTHER BRANDS OF 256 MBCF CARDS : LEXAR 12X ANDSIMPLE TECH AND SOMETIMES 64MB SAN DISK CF CARD .
A RELATIVE MADE ME A GIFT AND IN FACT I WAS ONLY THINKING TO USE IT AS A STEP CARD FOR BACK UPS,
IREALLY BECAMESURPRISED.
I HAD ITONLY FOR A SHORT TIME, BUTTIME ENOUGH TO BE CONVINCED THAT FORMY NIKON COOLPIX 3100 SEENS TO BE PRETTY FASTER THAN OTHERS IN WRITING IMAGES.
PRICE SEENS TO BE VERY GOOD.
DONT KNOW ABOUTPERFORMANCE IN OTHER BRANDS AND MODELS.

Awsome
This card is really good, and because i have a slow camera, this card is still super fast. definately recomnended. and not a bad deal either! ... Read more

Asin: B00005AC8J
Sales Rank: 44
Subjects:  1. Flash Memory (Flashcard, Flashcards)    2. Compactflash (Compact Flash)   

SanDisk 256 MB CompactFlash Card
by SanDisk
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $89.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The SanDisk 256 MB CompactFlash memory card runs on many popular digital cameras, handheld PCs, and other memory-driven products. Thorough testing in SanDisk's assurance lab ensures that its CompactFlash cards are compatible with a wide range of devices. Because the cards are so small, you can keep one in your pocket and never get caught short of memory. ... Read more

Features

• 256 MB CompactFlash
• Removable data storage system
• High transfer rate for fast copy/download
• Industry-standard compatibility
• For use in digital cameras, PDAs, HPCs, personal communicators, and MP3 players

Reviews (21)

How many pictures will it store?
How many pictures will it store?It is the most commonly asked question from digital camera enthusiast but usually the question that is the most difficult to get a straight answer about.Well, considering I worked in the memory industry for over 7 years I can help clarify this perplexing question and do so unbiased as I have since changed industries.

The SanDisk 256MB CompactFlash Card, like most 256MB cards, will store on average 284 pictures when used with a 2 megapixel camera, 213 images when used with a 3 megapixel camera,128 pictures when used with a 4 megapixel camera, 102 images when used with a 5 megapixel camera, and 80 pictures when used with a 6 megapixel camera.These numbers are based off the assumption that you are going to shoot your images at the highest quality JPEG setting available for the camera and understand that they are estimates and may be off by as much as 10 percent due to numerous factors including the complexity of the scene being shot and the compression algorithm used by your specific camera.

I truly hope this review was helpful to you in determining whether this card is the right capacity for your specific needs.

P.O.S.
Okay, I just bought one of these. Then I proceeded to go on a 6 mile walking tour all over San Francisco taking shots all along
the way with my new Digital Rebel...everything seemed fine...
until I got home and tried to view them on my computer...
CF Card Error...then I put the same card back in the camera...
Err CF...it's unbelievable the effort I put into getting those
shots and they're ALL LOST...

I'd give it ZERO stars if that were an option.

DISASTER!!!!
I've owned my Sandisk 256 MB for only 5 months when it went dead on me. After spending our honeymoon in Club Paradise, Palawan, Philippines, and taking so many totally great pictures, it just stopped working. It was working when I was taking pictures in Palawan, but when we were going to take our last picture on the plane, the digital camera just said CF Error. Damn! I tried reading it on my card reader when I got home and it wouldn't work. Even tried it on 4 different digicams and all reported error. Man, it's not the card I'm really pissed about, it's the pictures!!!! MAAAAAN!!! I couldn't even have it replaced, Circuit City says I need the receipt for them to replace it. ... Read more

Asin: B00005ICE1
Subjects:  1. Computer Memory    2. Memory Cards    3. Smart Media    4. Flash Memory (Flashcard, Flashcards)    5. Compactflash (Compact Flash)   

Mag Instrument M2A01H Black Holster AA Combo Pack Flashlight
by Mag Instrument
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $18.45
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Limited lifetime warranty
• High intensity adjustable light beam
• Sealed O-rings for water and shock resistance
• Precision-machined, high strength aluminum alloy case
• Spare lamp in the tail cap

Reviews (7)

Not quite the classic everybody makes it out to be.
Yeah, yeah.Everybody buys these Mini Maglites.Everybody says they're the benchmark, but I disagree, having owned one a number of years and having had time to document it's failings.For one thing, mine simply quit working recently, and when I visited the Maglite website, I learned that returning it under the warranty would cost more in shipping than it would cost to buy a new flashlight.How irritating.My solution was to toss the thing in the trash, and what a pity, as the quality of construction is quite good, notwithstanding the broken switch.But that brings me to my second point: the switch.This is the twist-on/off kind.Do you tend to carry a flashlight in your pack?In your pocket?Then avoid this model.The jostling that occurs during routine movement tend to turn the light on, a bit of a hassle when you're in the middle of nowhere only to find your light has turned itself on and exhausted the batteries.Now if only the manufacturer would adopt the same kind of push-button switch as on the larger models, and perhaps change the bulb to LEDs, then this model would be perfect rather than merely dated.A better bet is to pick up one or two cheap plastic Rayovacs at the hardware or discount store--better switch, comparable durability.

When buying a flashlight, check out the Mini Mag first!
I have had a 2AA cell Mini Maglite for several years now. Through this time, I have dropped it a lot, but each time, the only damage is scratches. It is so durable that you can just throw it on the ground purposely and it will not be obliterated! The holster is a nice addition so that you can have easy acces when you are in a tight situation.
The candle feature is very useful, especially for camping (or night reading). Also, it is water proof! I never have to worry while using it in the rain.
Overall, this product is very useful. With its size and capabilities, it prooves worthy to be owned by anyone, no matter what there job is. Note: Another good Mag product is the 4D cell light.

Universal Light
The first one I had was black, just like Model-T. Being dark and inside my dark overalls pocket, I forgot about it until it fell. It fell couple more times since. It is still working. It is a good size to go inside the tool box permanently. The size is also small enough to go inside where only your hand can reach. Sometimes in my line of work in seismic oil exploration I need to do come cabling, the Mini helps to get the connection right.

Bought a few more Mag lights since the first one, seeing as it is tough and rain proof. But when I travel it is the Mini that comes along instead of the Mag Solitaire because the AA size batteries is the most universally available battery you can find in most countries.

Torch (flashlight to you guys in US) is like penknives, tend to need it in an emergency. So one lives with the Leatherman, one in the car glove box, the old one still in the tool box.

Yeah, I have held the torch in my lips too in the past but now recommend a headband by Nite Ize to turn it into a headlamp. Another item worth considering if you go hiking a lot is the Nite Ize "Pock-its". This is a holster for Mini Mag Light and Leatherman, spare batteries. ... Read more

Asin: B00002N6SN
Sales Rank: 521
Subjects:  1. Flashlights    2. (Flash Lights)    3. Home Safety   

Brunton's Nomad compass is the perfect, easy-to-use tool for the recreational hiker or trekker. Its all-digital display with backlight lets you effortlessly read compass headings in digital, cardinal points, or compass rose with a 1-degree resolution. Nomad has a bubble level that increases the accuracy and is declination adjustable. There are both forward and back bearing with off-course indicators. Also included are a wrist/neck lanyard and a CR2032 3-volt lithium battery. The Nomad comes with a one-year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Low-battery indicator
• Electronic compass with backlit digital display
• Forward and back bearings with off-course indicator
• Bubble level for increased accuracy
• Declination adjustable

Asin: B00005NTFA
Subjects:  1. Digital compass (compasses)    2. Handheld (Hand held)   

Mag Instrument AM2A016 Mini Flashlight Accessory Pack
by Mag Instrument
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $5.99 -- our price: $5.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Pocket clip
• Lanyard wrist strap with key ring
• Colored lenses
• Lens holder

Reviews (5)

Amber lens is not included in this kit
Be advised that MagLite has changed the content of this kit.Instead of red and amber lenses, the kit now has red, blue, and clear lenses. (The part number of the kit is still AM2A016.)

Cool extras for your double A mini mag.
This is a great accessory pack. The rubber lens cover allows you to change lenses quickly, the red lens allows you to do things in the dark while maintaining your night vision, and the other accessories allow you to carry your flashlight just about anywhere. The only problem is that the different lenses are really easy to lose if your not using them.

Great for astronomy
The red lens is great for astronomy because it does'nt destroy your night-vision like a whitelightbulb does. The other accessories are handy so you don't lose your flashlight when you are looking through yourtelescope. ... Read more

Asin: B00002ND52
Sales Rank: 6153
Subjects:  1. Flashlights    2. (Flash Lights)   

Hewlett Packard Jornada 568 Pocket PC
by Hewlett Packard
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Hewlett Packard's 560 line of Jornada PDAs includes the 32 MB Jornada 565 and our 64 MB 568, members for the first batch of Pocket PCs to ship with Microsoft's new Pocket PC 2002 operating system.

On the surface, the Pocket PC 2002 OS looks much the same as the old OS. But there are a variety of enhancements to the stable of applications (like Word and Excel), new software such as MSN Messenger, added security and antivirus protection, and improved handwriting recognition.

The Jornada 568 features a CompactFlash Type 1 slot, so you can add more CF memory as well as hook up CF peripherals, such as modems or network cards. You'll probably want to expand on the memory front--64 MB is decent for a Pocket PC, but you always want more to play back any video or audio files. And CompactFlash memory prices have plummeted in recent months, making it an affordable upgrade.

The well-designed Jornada 568 sits nicely in hand, with a sturdy flip-up cover adding little to the overall weight (6.1 ounces without the cover and 7.0 with). The bright, 16-bit color TFT screen can be easily read from even sharp angles. While the 240 x 320 pixel, 3.5-inch diagonal screen isn't as large as some, it's big enough to keep you from squinting, even while reading books with Microsoft Reader.

Hooking the Jornada 568 up to your PC is handled either through the USB cradle (with a pass-through connector for the AC power adapter) or via infrared. In addition to the ActiveSync 3.5 software, HP includes Outlook 2002, Audible Player 2.0 for playing audio books, and MusicMatch for ripping and playing digital audio files. In addition to syncing up with Outlook files and directories, the Pocket PC versions of Word, Excel, and Media Player enable you to transfer almost any of your desktop files to the 568.

Powered by a 206 MHz StrongARM processor, the Jornada 568 can handle extensive multitasking without any slowdown. The bottom of the PDA offers four buttons for quick access to menus and applications--Home, Contacts, Calendar, and Tasks--as well as a four-direction navigation pad and scroll buttons on the side panel.

The Jornada 568 also functions as a voice recorder--just press the red button on the side and talk away--with a built-in microphone and speaker. But the speaker, while adequate for the normal beeps and burps of the OS, isn't great for music playback. You'll want to connect some headphones to the Jornada and, unfortunately, HP doesn't include any.

The rechargeable battery for the Jornada 568 promises up to 14 hours of life and we were able to get right around that. It also features a light at its top that glows green when the PDA is fully charged, and also flashes to alert you to appointments.

With its power, expandability, and the new Pocket PC 2002 operating system, the Jornada 568 makes an excellent all-around workhorse palmtop. --J. Curtis

Pros:

• Easy transfer of Word and Excel files and synchronization with Outlook
• CompactFlash Type 1 expandability
• Crisp, colorful display
• Sleek design

Cons:

• Speaker not adequate for playing back music
• No headphones

... Read more

Features

• Color Pocket PC with 64 MB of RAM with Microsoft's Pocket PC 2002 operating
• Built-in CompactFlash slot lets you add memory, accessories
• Vibrant 16-bit color display provides clear view indoors and out
• Store and edit data, browse the Internet, check e-mail with powerful Pocket PC applications
• What's in the box: Jornada 568, Stylus, rechargeable lithium-polymer battery, CR-2032 backup battery, AC adapter, USB cradle, Jornada Quick Start Guide, Documentation pack, Pocket PC Companion CD

Reviews (50)

Too expensive & didn't work fine
I experienced lots of trouble with this item, windows didn't work right, and when I found out how to manage my sychronization it was too late, I had lost all my data. I spent over 1,000 USD in the pocket PC and accesories and after 6 months finally trew it in the trash can, since the connection port had broken without doing nothing. It was my first Pocket PC after trying all Palm models and devices, and finally went back to Palm with Zire 71, which I recommend a lot better. Palm OS is more stable, never breaks dowm, and allways reliable.

Nice PDA
This is a great PDA. It runs Windows 2002 Pocket PC Edition very well. I can play MP3's, use Pocket Word, and synchronize with Microsoft Outlook without a problem.

The only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 stars is that the screen scratches amazingly easy. I always keep the thing in a soft case, and it's already scratched up pretty good. I have no idea how these little blemishes got there, but it is very annoying when the light is just right and they stand out.

Incredible
This is a wonderful machine.It is compact and efficient.It is compatible with several database software products allowing for easy, on the road access to all types of information.It holds 1000 pages of text per MB of memory which makes travelling a breeze.No longer do I need an extra briefcase for my books.Currently, with just a 128 MB compact flash card as an accessory, I have 7 books, 13 audible.com audible books, multiple pictures as well as all my MS Outlook contact addresses, phone numbers, email addresses.Further, I can download and respond to my email from this little pocket-size phenom.It has never, never failed me. ... Read more

Asin: B00005O7MW
Subjects:  1. Hewlett Packard (Hewlett-Packard)    2. Personal Digital Assistant (PDA, Electronic Organizer)    3. Pocket PC (PCs)    4. Hewlett-Packard (Hewlett, Packard, HP)    5. Handheld (Hand Held)    6. Casio    7. Hewlett-Packard    8. (HP)    9. (Hewlet Packart)   

Garmin GPSMAP 76
by Garmin
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $400.00 -- our price: Too Low To Display
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The key to success in life is knowing where you are, where you've been, and where you're going. Garmin's full-featured GPSMAP 76 puts all of that information in the palm of your hand, mapping your movements off-road or on--and even afloat. Plus, its extensive features, PC connectivity, and extensive add-on map options make it powerful enough for practically any need.

About the size of a small paperback book and weighing less than 8 ounces, the GPSMAP 76 fits comfortable in the palm of your hand, but is a bit big to carry in a shirt pocket. Using the unit requires almost no setup. Just put in two AA batteries, turn it on, go outside, and wait. In about a minute or so it will determine your location. It's accurate to about three meters, thanks to the unit's support of WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System), which augments GPS signals for even greater accuracy.

Knowing your longitude, latitude, and altitude doesn't mean much without a little context. That's where GPSMAP 76's backlit LCD display comes in, displaying your location on detailed maps. The unit comes with a built-in basemap that includes major roads, railroads, rivers, and lakes for the U.S. and Canada, as well as a high-level worldwide map. The unit also has 8 MB memory for storing maps from optional CD-ROMS; available maps include topographical maps, BlueChart marine cartography maps, as well as city maps with detailed information on city streets and points of interest.

The eight buttons, directional rocker thumbpad, and menu-based interface made it simple to access all of the unit's features and customize the display. For instance, it's a simple matter to use the buttons to set and name waypoints and build planned routes. Extra features include information on tides, sunrise and sunset, and a trip computer for seeing how far you've traveled and your average speed.

To test the GPSMAP 76, we used the included serial cable, connected it to our PC, and loaded it up with topographical maps using the optional United States topographical map disc. We then hit the road and headed for Muir Beach north of San Francisco. It tracked our progress along Highway 1, and once we reached our destination, we found it very simple to use. It showed both the elevation of the hills as well as the paths we could take. The zoom-in and zoom-out function made it simple to plan out and automatically measure the distance of our intended route.

After walking for a while and enjoying the scenery, we used the TracBack mode to guide us back to our car. The unit automatically stores waypoints as you walk along, letting you display the way home clearly on the map. We even used the TracBack capability to guide us on the roads back to the freeway.

The GPSMAP 76 comes in handy almost anywhere, whether you're hiking, driving, boating, or wandering around a city as a tourist. Its easy-to-use interface makes it immediately useful to novices, and as you learn to exploit its programmability and features, it can become an extremely powerful navigation tool. --Ken Feinstein

Pros:

• Large backlit LCD
• WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) support
• Automatic TracBack shows you the way back to your start location
• PC connectivity with wide variety of uploadable maps available

Cons:

• 8 MB built-in memory can't be expanded
• Too large to fit comfortably in a shirt pocket

... Read more

Features

• Trip computer with current/average speed, timer, and trip distance
• Programmable alarms and tables; 500 waypoints
• 8 MB memory for downloading data from optional Garmin MapSource CD-ROMs
• WAAS enabled Global positioning system (GPS) receiver continuously tracks and uses up to 12 satellites
• Preloaded maps of rivers, lakes, worldwide cities, navaids, and tide data

Reviews (11)

Garmin GPSMap 76 A Great Hand-Held Device
This is a great gps, especially for marine purposes.I searched around and researched before deciding on purchasing the gpsmap 76.I find the preloaded base maps to be very sufficient and fairly detailed.It's waterproof and submersible, what else could you ask for.The only downfall is that it's not colorized, but big deal.It's quite easy to see when you're standing in direct sunlight.This is one of the best gps devices out there for this price range.It's well worth every penny, and comes highly recommended.

list price isnt 400$
this makes no sence garmin says the list price for the gps map 76 is only 321$. I dont get about this is that the vista was released at the same time if not later than the gpsmap76 and The both have the same exact list price so why is the gps76 so much more expensive. Also eopinions says your sellin it for 199$

A Great Sea Kayaking Companion
Before my GPS purchase, I considered a number of Magellan units in addition to some in the Garmin E Trex series. I finallydecided on the Garmin Map76.

In addition to being relatively easy to use, I preferred the slightly larger screen of the Map76 over the other units.Since I was purchasing the unit to use while sea kayaking, I found the screen on the Map76 was much easier to read in the sunlight than the smaller screens on the E-Trex models.In addition, you can upload map data into this unit. (Although the unit includes a basemap, Garmin also manufactures a number of optional mapping products which cover roads, waterways and topographical features in more detail).For kayaking, I use the optional BlueCharts which is essentially like having Nautical maps at your fingertips.(These are sold by regions and tend to be a bit expensive however).

The tide station/prediction feature on the Map76 was also an important deciding factor.With this unit, you have the ability to get tidal predictions for virtually anywhere in the US at your fingertips.

The Map76 often receives criticism on the low amount of memory for uploading map data.The tradeoff however is that it also drains the battery power at a slower rate than those that boast more memory. (I also considered the GPS Map76S which has an added electronic compass and more memory, however after a trial use from a friend's, I found the Map76S unit to drain battery power far too quickly for my intended use. The Map76S was also about $100 more in cost). Although the Map76S was a slightly upgraded Map76, I didn't feel the extra features of the 76S were worth the added cost, especially with the faster rate of the battery drain.

I've logged over 500 miles of sea kayaking with this unit and am very satisfied with its performance. I find the memory capability in the Map76 is adequate for uploading maps for day trips and the balance with the battery drain is also sufficient.

Although it is waterproof, I highly suggest a transparent waterproof bag for using while kayaking to avoid salt water condensation corroding the battery leads.

Garmin also offers toll free phone and email technical support for their units and software.

This unit makes a great paddling partner. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B4BJ
Subjects:  1. Marine Navigation (instruments)    2. Chart plotters   

Garmin MetroGuide CD ROM (USA)
by Garmin
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $124.99 -- our price: $76.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The MapSource MetroGuide U.S.A. CD-ROM contains the electronic equivalent of several paper maps and represents the same information found on MetroGuide cartridges. MetroGuide U.S.A. includes trip and waypoint management functions that allow you to transfer waypoints, routes, and tracks between your PC and nearly all Garmin GPS units while viewing detailed maps on your PC screen.

With a map-download-compatible Garmin GPS, MetroGuide U.S.A. allows you to load map detail, addresses, business listings, and points of interest from any region in the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. You can transfer MetroGuide U.S.A. data from a personal computer to your GPS unit or to a blank or preprogrammed data cartridge (compatible with StreetPilot III).

You'll see details such as the locations of restaurants, banks, gas stations, and tourist attractions, plus much more. In addition, you can use your GPS to look up street addresses and points of interest, then navigate to them with the help of onscreen arrows and street-level detail. You'll be able to drive to any city address in the large database using an electronic map that shows street-level detail.

Note on compatibility: The trip and waypoint management functions of this product work with nearly all Garmin GPS units, excluding the GPS 100 family and panel-mount aviation units. Specifically, the map download features of this product work with the eTrex Legend, eTrex Vista, eMap, GPS V, StreetPilot, StreetPilot ColorMap, StreetPilot III, and GPSMAP 76, 176, 182, 188, 232, 238, 295, 2006, and 2010. ... Read more

Features

• Electronic equivalent of paper maps
• Includes trip and waypoint management functions
• Provides street-level detail
• Lists street addresses, points of interest, and more
• Works with nearly all Garmin GPS units

Reviews (13)

Best maps for Garmin GPS
Note that although v5 is now out, it's really more of a map data vendor change than an "update".The interface is identical, and much of the map data is, too.The main differences will be in Alaska and Hawaii.You can use the map viewer at Garmin's web site to check out what the v5 maps look like.

Also, MetroGuide v5 can only be used to create routes on a PC.You cannot use its maps to create routes on a StreetPilot or other GPS that does its own routes.You can use the City Select CDs to do this.

Finally, if you're wondering what the difference between this and Roads & Recreation, that is intended for older and low memory (1MB or less) units.If you have 8MB or more, get MetroGuide.

Stop! Get the new version five!
Version five is out, just ordered and got version four -- ouch!

It'd be nice if the maps were updated in the near future.
I got this for my eTrex Legend.Like the other reviewers have said, the maps are pretty badly out of date.If you're in a relatively new area, don't expect this CD to have any streets listed.

If you are navigating in an established area that's been around for more than three or four years, you'll find the maps to be pretty helpful.They are very detailed, and I've found that even if a restaurant isn't properly located on the map, the marker is usually within walking distance of where it should be.Note though, that because this map data is rapidly aging, a lot of these restaurants have gone out of business and no longer exist.

I live in Los Angeles, and the area is so big that Garmin split it up into two maps on this CD.One covers just about everything west of the 710 freeway, and another covers everything from the 710 east out to Palm Desert and Orange County.The problem is that these two maps are like 7 megs EACH.

If you live in the Los Angeles area and require full coverage, the 8 MB of the eTrex Legend just isn't enough to hold it all at once.That's not a big deal for me, but it would have been nice to know that beforehand.

If you have a need for coverage of the entire LA/OC area, you'd be much better off with an eTrex Vista which has 24 megs of memory (and costs more than twice as much as the Legend!) ... Read more

Asin: B00004VX3J
Subjects:  1. GPS (Global Positioning System)    2. Software    3. map (mapping)    4. navigation   

Targus PA820U Stowaway Portable Keyboard for HP Jornada
by Targus
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $89.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Targus Stowaway portable keyboard for HP Jornada enables you to quickly and comfortably enter text into your Pocket PC without having to carry around a full-size desktop keyboard. The Stowaway keyboard is a full-size keyboard when open but folds instantly to about the size of your Jornada. This portable keyboard has the same key spacing as a standard desktop keyboard so it's comfortable to use. Plus, at only 7.9 ounces it won't weigh you down.

This Stowaway portable keyboard is compatible with HP Jornada 520, 540, and 560 series Pocket PCs.

Installation of the Keyboard application onto your HP Jornada is done simply via Setup Assistant from the included CD-ROM. Because the Stowaway keyboard only needs power while it is actually being used, the effect on the overall battery life of your Jornada will be minimal.

To operate the keyboard with your handheld, click the Stowaway keyboard open from its folded position, lay it flat, and slide the keyboard parts together (it's separated into thirds for folding). Then, simply attach your handheld and start typing in a text-based program.

You can do virtually all your work without taking your fingers off the keyboard with the Stowaway. The four custom keys on the right side of the keyboard (Inbox/Notes, Contacts/Word, Calendar/Excel, Tasks/Money) are preprogrammed shortcut keys to activate certain applications, but they can be customized with the Keyboard application.

Placing the keyboard on a firm, flat surface offers the best results, because of the folding design. However, you can use it on your lap as long as the keyboard is supported by a magazine or book across its open expanse. --Agen G.N. Schmitz ... Read more

Features

• Built In Dock Eliminates Cables
• No More Lost Ideas Now Do More Anytime, Anywhere with The Full Size Portable HP Jornada Keyboard
• Folds to Fit In Your Pocket or Purse
• Special Keys Link Directly to Jornada Calendar, Address Book, to Do List, and Memo Applications
• Short-Cut and Function Keys Allow Maximum Efficiency

Reviews (77)

An excellent keyboard
Nice solid construction. Clever way of folding up compactly so that it's about the same size as my Visor Edge. I have found two minor problems with using it.

Until you get used to it, attaching my PDA to the keyboard is tricky. This is probably due the way Handspring designed the connector and not the fault of Targus.

The other problem I have is most of the time when I connect the keyboard to my PDA the keyboard won't work unless I detach it, disable the keyboard in the Keyboard program, reattach the keyboard, reattach the keyboard, and then reenable the keyboard software.

With some experimentation I found that if I just disable the keyboard software before detaching the keyboard, I didn't have this problem. The drawback is remembering to disable before detachment, and enabling after attachment.

Aside from these two minor problems, I still regard this as an excellent product.

I'm sure the keyboard works fine...
Don't make assumptions. I was referred to this keyboard after buying a Clie PEG-SJ22u. It doesn't work with this model. I've since come back and taken the time to read the full product description, which is accurate. I'm sure that this keyboard works fine with the models it is designed for, but be sure that you confirm that it works with your model before you buy. Amazon doesn't always direct you to accessories that work with your PDA. I assumed otherwise, and found out the hard way that I was wrong.

Good keyboard
I've had this keyboard for over 2.5 years now and it still works great. I used it to take notes on my Ipaq all through law school. It is compact enough to slip into a small pocket in my backpack. It sets up and docks in no time.
The best feature is the keystroke action. The keyboard is full-size and types beautifully. I would prefer it to most laptops I have typed on.

Having hotkeys programmed and programmable to launch individual programs is nice. The only improvement I would like to see would be support for MS Word type hotkeys such as Ctrl-U for underline and Ctrl-I for italics. Cut, Copy, and Paste (Ctrl-x,c,v) hotkeys do work, however.
... Read more

Asin: B00004YNWQ
Subjects:  1. Personal Digital Assistant (PDA, Electronic Organizer)    2. Pocket PC (PCs)    3. Hewlett-Packard (Hewlett, Packard, HP)    4. Handheld (Hand Held)   

Leatherman 67010103HWave
by Leatherman
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $98.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Wave is the flagship of the Leatherman line, and we would argue that it's the company's most versatile multitool to date. It comes loaded with 17 different tools, including everything from pliers to screwdrivers to wire cutters. We really like the Wave's quality construction, its four locking blades, and the fact that the user can get at the knife without having to open up the whole tool--a nice improvement over the original model. While nobody's going to replace a tool set or do major auto repairs with the Wave, it's absolutely invaluable for a wide range of quick, on-the-spot jobs. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Includes a nylon belt sheath
• Blades that are accessible from the outside of the tool
• 17 tools in 1
• 25 year warranty
• One handed opening

Reviews (71)

for those who value effeciency, this is a MUST!
very durable, dependable, and worth its (light)weight in gold.

Nice tool! Sheath not very "Deluxe".
The tool looks very useful and well made but the sheath looks like a piece of junk.

Don't leave the bedroom without it
I have had the wave for years now, and I have finally worn it down to where I need to get a new one.This thing has been at my side and provided me with countless experiences of being able to fix something ON THE SPOT.The weight is not too heavy at all for me. The scissors work great (I have even cut stainless steel shim with them).The pliers have been used for numerous fixes and the jaws of mine have finally worn smooth.The wire cutters have worked great.The hard wire cutter has never failed me unless I am trying to cut steel cable (a difficult task for any pair of plier-like cutters), but even then I can still manage to do it.The screwdrives have been abused yet still function very well.The blades accept a good sharpening and last for a good while after sharpening.The file is bar-none the BEST file on any multi-tool I have ever seen, and is better than most dedicated files I have used.The diamond file is spectacular.The single-handed blade opening and single-handed plier opening are features I have come to depend on.This is just a great tool that allows me to GET MORE DONE!The leather sheath is also very rugged yet quickly became supple and remains a durable home for this tool.
No, it's not the perfect tool for any one specific task, but it is a very useful tool nonetheless and serves it's purpose without fail.I am amazed mine has lasted as long as it has considering how often I use it, which is pretty much every single day.If I am wearing pants or shorts with a belt, then I have my leatherman.The only nuisance is I have to remember to pack it in my luggage prior to flying!
Worth every penny, and then some. ... Read more

Asin: B000065UE7
Subjects:  1. (Swiss Army Knives)    2. (Knife)    3. (Multitools)    4. Camping Accessories    5. Hand Tools    6. Multi-tools   

Alias - The Complete First Season
by Buena Vista Home Entertainment
Average Customer Review:
DVD (02 September, 2003)
list price: $69.99 -- our price: $52.49
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Sydney Bristow (Jennifer Garner) is a super (and super sexy) spy, fighting nefarious villains and working for the good guys--or so she thinks. Recruited as a college freshman for espionage work, Sydney found her true calling with SD-6, a secret division of the CIA. When her hunky doctor-boyfriend proposes to her, she decides to let him in on the truth she's not supposed to tell anyone: she's not a grad student with a demanding job for an international bank, but a secret agent who constantly puts her life on the line for the free world. But when SD-6 discovers her security breach, her fiancé is brutally assassinated, and Sydney suddenly finds herself face-to-face with the truth: she's been working for the bad guys. Deciding to become a double agent for the CIA and bring down the evildoers, Sydney gets one more surprise--her estranged father (Victor Garber) is also working for SD-6, and the CIA as well. Welcome to the family, Syd!

Confusing? This is all just in the first episode of Alias, the brainchild of Felicity creator J.J. Abrams that plays like a cross between Buffy the Vampire Slayer and James Bond. With its double-edged tension (how long can Syd play double agent?) and one heck of a MacGuffin (the dreaded Rambaldi device, the mythic creation of a Renaissance genius), the show leads its viewers from episode to episode with visceral, compelling action, not to mention the nascent romance between Syd and her CIA handler, Vaughn (Michael Vartan), and her clashes with her heretofore distant father. Sharp, smart, and always suspenseful, Alias' center was held by the gorgeous Garner, a stellar action heroine and an even better actress who could pull off Sydney's exotic undercover missions and conflicted emotions with equal dexterity. By the end of this first season, which concludes with a breathtaking cliffhanger, you'll be seduced into Alias' world with, happily, no desire to escape. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Closed-captioned
• Box set
• Dolby

Reviews (309)

Touchstone has done it again
I'll have to admit I'm not much of a person for TV shows. I rarely have time to watch them, so whoever invented these things? Kudos to them seriously! Now then, back to this DVD set.

Alias was introduced to me by a friend who insisted I watch it and gave me season one without even let me protest. So the busy canine that I was at the time, I decided to plop in the first DVD with the first episode of the series...little expecting how I would feel about it afterward.

One word describes the feeling I had....INCREDIBLE! SO much was put into the making of this series that I just couldn't stop watching it. The episode ended, but I was not satisfied...AT ALL. I had to continually watch each episode in sequence just to keep myself sane from so many drop offs in each story line.

Not to give away too much, Sydney Bristow finds herself in a predicament of being involved with SD-6, a supposed "branch" of the CIA. This, she finds out, is false in that this branch is part of an agency used to work in governmental overthrow and basically overtaking everything involving it. Once Sydney finds this out, she becomes a double-agent for SD-6 and the REAL CIA to help bring down the agency.

So much could be described here, but for the sake of space and time, this is definitely a series (starting with season one of course ;-)) worth watching! You will love it!

I Love This Show
Jenifer Garner is a hot secret agent who finds out that she is working for the bad guys, so she turns into a double agent. From the beggining to the end this season rocked, with cliffhangers galore, amazing script, and a movie quality.

Sydney Bristow is one the first characters in a spy series that seems almost real. Her whole life is not just spy stuff. She has to deal with regular problems that everybody has to deal with but with a few twists. Whether it be the death of a loved one, a silent romance, or getting to know her estranged father, the writers give you a good look at the complex character of Sydney Bristow.

Buy this dvd set because the only other series that can hold a candle to Alias is 24.

Great Show
I don't watch a lot of shows beyond comedy but this is one of the exceptions.This is a great show that you will never want to stop watching.It's smart,thrilling,and great fun.The 1st season was a good start showing Sydney ( the lovely Jennifer Garner) adapting to the spy life and figuring out what was all a lie.The set is great but I warn you after watching this show you will want to get the 2nd season immediatly.Go ahead and get this set and treat yourself to fine acting and limitless fun. ... Read more

Asin: B00005JLF1
Subjects:  1. Television   

Alias - The Complete Second Season
by BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Average Customer Review:
DVD (02 December, 2003)
list price: $69.99 -- our price: $52.49
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

It was a family affair in the second season of J.J. Abrams's wonderfully inventive Alias, as super secret agent Sydney Bristow (Jennifer Garner) came face-to-face with the mother of all super secret agents--her own mother, Irina Derevko (Lena Olin), a former KGB agent presumed dead but alive and more dangerous than ever. After shooting poor Syd, Irina later shows up at the doorstep of the CIA, offering to turn herself in and work for the good guys. But can she be trusted? Alias set up so much duplicity in its second season that it might have been hard to keep track of who was doing what to whom, but thanks to a great ensemble cast, fast-paced writing and direction, and some cannily cast guest stars, Alias rode a stunning emotional roller-coaster and never broke its momentum, even when halfway through the season, the show reinvented itself. With episode 13, "Phase One" (which aired after the Super Bowl to the show's biggest audience), Syd's original nemesis (and employer) SD-6 changes forever, yet the kick-butt agent still finds herself going up against the malevolent leader Sloane (Ron Rifkin) and his ever-changing set of henchmen. Action fans got plenty of fighting, while romantic Alias watchers swooned as Syd and the dashing Vaughn (Michael Vartan) finally consummated their unrequited love.

The critically acclaimed show owed a debt to Buffy the Vampire Slayer for its mix of action, romance, mystery, and moral quandaries, but in this season Alias truly came into its own--with a climax that came as a total shocker and prepped the show for an emotionally volatile third season. Guest stars included the phenomenal Amy Irving as Sloane's wife, Faye Dunaway as a nefarious bigwig, Christian Slater as a kidnapped scientist, and Ethan Hawke as a fellow CIA agent (or rather, two of them), but it was the dysfunctional nuclear family of Syd, Irina, and father Jack (Victor Garber) that gave Alias its heart and its strength, whether the three perfectly cast actors (all Emmy nominated) were just bickering or undertaking deadly hand-to-hand combat. And you thought your family had problems! --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Closed-captioned
• Widescreen
• Box set
• Dolby

Reviews (118)

Top-notch entertainment...
This show is highly entertaining and incredibly addicting.Once you start watching it it is hard to stop.The plot and characters are great and episodes are generally well tied together.There's a bit of a slow down at one point, but things pick up again no problem.I strongly recommend watching the first season before watching this one, it'll just make it that much better.I can hardly wait to find out what happens next!

Yes, Season 2 is better!!
4.5 stars.There are two reasons why I cannot give this 5 stars.The first is that, while the predictability is not nearly as blatant as Season 1, there are still moments when the plotting is clearly drawn out(e.g. Marshall flies in an airplane for the first time and is so frightened that he packs a compact parachute under his jacket, and it isn't too long before that little device proves to be useful; another section was so predictable I rolled my eyes, as a foreign contact is made more human by revealing something about him personally--why not just put a red bullseye on his back?)However, there are so many twists that I actually gasped at, that all the rest is eventually forgivable.The acting is once again excellent, as is the actual filmmaking.The addition of Lena Olin is the best reason to continue watching this series, where she provides a seductively evil presence with all-too-obvious nods to "The Silence of the Lambs" character Hannibal Lecter.There are plenty of action sequences that are suspenseful and fight scenes where the chroeography is so sharp that it is dance-like.If you enjoyed Season 1, Season 2 will knock you out!The final cliffhanger simply isn't fair in light of the fact that I haven't ordered Season 3 yet; it was another twist I was not expecting.Season 2 is definitely worth picking up.

It gets better!
If you liked S1 of Alias, then you'll love S2.It is so exciting, and altough some parts are sad, they keep you watching.So many parts of the show are just amazing.The addition of Sydney's mother has you enjoying her company and questioning her motives all the way to the finale.I got so hooked on S2 that I bought S3 before I was halfway done S2, just so I wouldn't have to wait! ... Read more

Asin: B0000ALF8I
Subjects:  1. Television   

Alias - The Complete Third Season
by Buena Vista Home Vid
Average Customer Review:
DVD (07 September, 2004)
list price: $69.99 -- our price: $52.49
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The third season of Alias found super spy Sydney Bristow (Jennifer Garner) waking up in Hong Kong with a monster hangover and two years in the future with nary a memory. What's worse, her world has been turned upside-down with the evil Sloane (Ron Rifkin) now a world-famous humanitarian and philanthropist, and, even worse, her true love Vaughn (Michael Vartan) married to a seemingly great gal. Nice way to go back to work, eh? After coming up with one heck of a cliffhanger in season 2, Alias proceeded a bit aimlessly through these 22 episodes, and as a result, the parts were truly greater than the whole. With Lena Olin no longer around as Syd's duplicitous mother, and the addition of admirable yet bland Melissa George as Vaughn's wife Lauren, Garner found herself for the first time without a compelling female foil to play off of. By dividing its focus equally between the quest for the enigmatic Rambaldi device, Syd and Vaughn's now-contentious relationship, and the uncovering of Syd's missing years, Alias lost a little of its power without a larger story arc. The loss of regular cast members Merrin Dungey (Francie/Alison) and Bradley Cooper (Will)--both of whom do make great guest appearances--also divest the show of the personal life that kept Sydney human and approachable. Still, Garner is stellar as always, the plot twists come fast and furious, and secret identities are revealed. This season does have a great panorama of guest actors including Ricky Gervais, Justin Theroux, Djimon Hounsou, David Cronenberg, Quentin Tarantino, Vivica A. Fox, and Isabella Rossellini as Syd's long-lost aunt. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Features

• Color
• Widescreen
• Dolby

Reviews (158)

I don't understand what people are complaining about...
I just finished season 3 of Alias...and am wondering "What the HELL happened in the last scene?"...season 4 dvds won't be out for a while....grumble grumble.

Anyway, I agree that season 3 wasn't as strong as season 2, but I enjoyed it more than season 1.Season 1 (although I loved it as well) almost seems now like a prequel to the main attractions.The parts of the show that suffered in season 3 were largely parts that I didn't care about.I really don't care about "Sydney and friends at home.", which there really isn't any of in this season.If you really miss it that much, then watch half an episode, pause it, and go find a re-run of friends on tv....sadly, you can probably find these re-runs on SOME channel 24-7.In addition, the new character simply isn't as interesting as the others.We also have to deal with the absence of Sydney's mother in this season, and she is a large part of what made Season 2 great.

However, I really care mostly about 3 things in Alias, and they remain nearly at season 2 levels:

1. Characters- while I explained a couple of problems above, the returning characters are great.Sloane gets even more interesting, Weiss and Marshall are further developed, and a couple of minor but interesting characters are introduced.

2. Action Scenes/Missions- no slouching here....the missions, costumes, fights, etc. continue to be over the top, well scored, and fun to watch.

3. MOST IMPORTANTLY...the PLOT- The plot for this season comes VERY close to season 2.The middle is a little slow, but the beginning and end were great.I watched the last six episodes in one sitting....something I have only previously done for 24.The writers continue to be good at writing twists that make sense and manipulating viewer expectations.There were several times where I thought the story had twisted in a way that would have invalidated some past events only to find out that the story was actually twisting a different way.I really don't understand people that think this season had a fragmented story.To me, the story continues to warp around revealing a larger, grander story with each season...things that didn't make sense 2 seasons ago make sense now...it's just....brilliant.And I don't understand why everybody is tired of the Rambaldi stuff.The Rambaldi story is the PERFECT frame for this type of show.It enable endless opportunity for new important artifacts to race to and adds a slight supernatural edge to the show at times that can be really fun.In fact, I think the Rambaldi storyline is one of the ways that Alias actually trumps 24.24 is my favorite, but Alias has one long continous storyline...it doesn't even take a breath at the end of seasons.When I heard that season 3 of Alias wasn't supposed to be as good as the others, I prepared for worst....it seems I was misled...the season was great (although uneven), and Alias continues to be one of the 4 best shows on tv (the others being 24, The Shield, and Lost).

A Disappointment
I really loved seasons 1 and 2 of Alias, but I found season 3 to be quite a disappointment.The main reason for this is the excessive use of violence this season.It's not necessary and actually detracts from the show.I don't know why creators of shows like this thinks that people are drawn to excessive violence.

I was also very disappointed by the loss of scenes which included Sydney and her friends at home.

I was also disappointed by the absence of 2 key characters this season. I know this may have been due to the actors wanting to leave, but I still felt it detracted from the show.

I am not sure if I will buy season 4 or not.Hopefully the show has improved back to it's original greatness from the first 2 seasons.Season 2 is my favorite.

Not Up to Par but Entertaining
Yes, Sydney really has been missing for two years.And she comes back to find that Vaughn is married, her dad is in jail, and Sloane is a good guy.Hold on to your hats, it's season 3.

Syd quickly begins to get back on her feet, going back to work for the CIA under her former partner Dixon.But her search for the two years missing from her memory takes her to some pretty strange places.Most shocking of all is the fact that she killed someone in cold blood.It's beginning to look more and more like some group called The Covenant is involved.What could this all mean?And can she successfully work with Vaughn and his pretty new wife Lauren?

I have watched this show faithfully since day 1, becoming a die hard fan about episode three.I faithfully tuned in for this season and spent as much time as always speculating on what each line of dialog and plot twist meant.But it wasn't as entertaining as the first two seasons.The twists felt forced, and the emphasis on Rimbaldi near the end overwhelmed me.That's one storyline I'd love for them to completely leave behind.

This six disc set is up to the previous set's high standards even if the show isn't.All 22 episodes are shown in wide screen and full surround sound.There's a fan commentary, which is fun if not informative, and two commentaries with cast and crew.Disc six contains an animated episode from Syd's missing two years (forgettable), and the usually behind the scenes stuff.This is actually very interesting and I watched it all intently.Also included are a handful of deleted scenes and the outtake real for the season.

While the show stumbled in season 3, it has regained its footing in season 4.Fans will be glad they have this to complete their set.Those catching up will need to see it as well to understand the current episodes. ... Read more

Asin: B0001I55ZQ
Subjects:  1. Television