3D mouse

A new type of computer peripheral has been introduced designed to make navigating in virtual 3D space both seamless and simple. 3Dconnexion, a subsidiary of Logitech, has developed the SpaceNavigator in conjunction with Google Earth and Google SketchUp. The device offers a more user friendly alternative to the mouse movement and keystroke combinations currently used to navigate 3D environments or to move 3D objects. Other 3D modelling programs, such as AutoCAD, can also use the device.

The SpaceNavigator uses six optical sensors and is not intended to be a replacement for the mouse but an accompaniment to it. With this in your left hand and the mouse in your right, additional freedom can be experienced on screen. You can grip, slide, twist, tilt, press down and lift up the SpaceNavigator to move seamlessly through 3D spaces and manipulate 3D objects. The device is ideal for molecular modelling and anyone who works in 3D environments.

Size is not a problem!

If you've ever needed to make large posters to take to conferences or exhibitions but never had a large format printer, the PixelRoller could be the answer. It's a paint roller that paints pixels designed as a rapid response printing tool specifically to print digital information, such as imagery or text onto a great range of surfaces. The content is applied in continuous strokes by the user. It can be viewed as a handheld printer based upon the ergonomics of a paint roller that lets you create images by your own hand.

In the future, you could just put your poster on your memory stick and then print it onto the wall when you get to the conference.

It's in the bag

A backpack that serves as a mobile power source has been designed to charge your gadgets without tying you to a power outlet. Three tough, lightweight, waterproof solar panels that generate up to 4 watts of power are embedded in the Voltaic backpack and inside the bag is a lithium ion battery pack. This can also be charged using the included AC travel charger or car charger so you can have power when you need it, whether you are in the city or the middle of nowhere.

The backpack is powerful enough to charge most portable electronics (other than laptops) including mobile phones, cameras, two-way radios, GPSs, PDAs and even iPods. It includes a set of standard adaptors for common phones, a set of universal adaptors and a cigarette lighter socket so that you can use a standard car charger. A full range of optional adapters are also available.

Furthermore, the bag comes in 4 sizes, each available in a choice of 4 colour panels.