Compiled by CIARA O'BRIEN
Transcend GPS (€280-€350))
Traversing ski slopes can be tricky. However, Zeal’s latest set of ski goggles makes it easier to stay on the right track. The Transcend GPS glasses have a built-in GPS which displays information on a mini LCD screen in the goggle. You won’t have to mess about with handheld GPS systems. The information includes location, temperature, altitude and distance covered, along with a vertical odometer and stopwatch.
A USB connection allows you to hook the device up to a PC or Mac and download the data to analyse it. The rechargeable battery will give you about seven hours. The goggles are available with polarised lenses, and polarised and photochromatic/ transitioning lenses. www.zealoptics.com
999 Medical ID (€34.99)
There are times when having instant access to your medical records is useful. The 999 Medical ID is a new credit-card-sized USB device that stores all the information you need, allowing you to carry it with you at all times. The card will store data on everything from health conditions, X-rays and family history to insurance policies, living will and organ donation instructions, as well as prescription or over-the-counter medication. The database can be viewed and printed off immediately from any PC, using preloaded software that opens automatically when plugged in.
Holders can use the included stickers to help alert people to the fact that they carry such a card, and that it can be accessed in an emergency. The card also comes with one year’s subscription to a password-protected online service, Medical ID Access.
www.999medicalid.com
Imagin e-book Reader (€114)
The advent of the iPad and other similar devices has affected the e-book industry, with dedicated devices becoming even cheaper than before and boasting added functions.
The Imagin e-book reader is one such device, offering a colour thin film transistor screen and the option to watch movies as well as read e-books. The compact e-reader has a 5in screen, integrated speakers for music or audio books, and is compatible with most popular e-book formats.
The only thing it doesn’t have is a touch screen – instead touch-sensitive buttons control functions on the device. Additional storage comes via a removable Micro SD card. The rechargeable battery will last about four hours of normal use, but this varies depending on whether you are using it for books or are playing media files too.
A budget option.
www.firebox.com
