GADGETHEAD Issue 3.09
UK
£4.95
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Inspired By Your Success
EXPLORE. ENJOY.
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Contents
GADGETHEAD Senior Writer Emma Hilling-Smith emmahilling@littlegatepublishing.com Sales Director Alex Hilling-Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com Junior Copy Editor Alice Instone-Brewer alice@littlegatepublishing.com Junior Copy Editor James Lapping steveweller@littlegatepublishing.com Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
RaceZone3 Vision Wetsuit • Atmos Aegis Convection Vaporizer •Atmos Vicod 5G Page 10 Smoketech G-Priv Kit • GolfBuddy LD2 • Abbot Freestyle Libre • Golf Buddy CT2 Page 20 Rapha Rides Pro Team Lightweight Jersey • LaserBand 82 Bundle • Sleepyhead Deluxe Plus Pod and Sleepyhead Grand • Coleman Basalt Single • Linksys MAX-STREAM AC600 Wi-Fi Micro USB Adapter Page 30 Quad Lock Bike Kit iPhone7 • Campingaz Powerbox Plus 28L 12/230V Electric Cooler • Camping Gaz GT2000PZ Garden Torch • OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator • Nextbase 412GW Dash Cam Page 40 Osprey Transporter 65 Duffle Bag • Osprey Stratos 50 • Osprey Fairview 70 • Linksys EA8300 MAXSTREAM AC2200 Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router Page 50 Q-Link Acrylic SRT-3 • Viofo A119S 1080P Dash Cam
RaceZone3 Vision Wetsuit Never has a wetsuit looked so good on! That was my first impression of the Vision from Zone3, it has metallic blue detailing around the cuffs, ankles, across the shoulders and back, and it is flattering to the figure (obviously this isn’t the main reason you should invest in this wetsuit but hey, it always helps). The Vision has been created with performance at the centre of the design but at an entry level price, the one-piece shoulder panel aims to create high levels of comfort whilst maintaining flexibility at the same time, and the latest version has even more flexibility to allow you to swim as fast as you can without draining energy fighting against the suit. The Vison has a Full Speed-FloTM
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coating to minimise drag and help increase speed, this is one of the only fully ‘coated’ suits available at this price range. The super stretchy one-piece shoulder panel extends from elbow to elbow, the shoulders and arms are only 2mm thick and have a flexible lining to allow for a full range of movement. The new Extreme Flex material is in the underarm panels to improve the reach you can make
with each stroke and the maximum 5mm buoyancy panels from the hips to the knees help support your core muscles in the water. The Pro Speed CuffsTM on the arms and the legs not only look good but are there for improved visibility as well as rapid removal after your swim, very important during a triathlon, the silicone coated formula allows the wetsuit to come off smoothly and quickly so that there’s no more hopping about on one leg whilst trying to tug it off. Alongside this, the suit is fully stitched and glue bonded for increased flexibility, durability and comfort.
https://zone3.com/product/mens-vision-wetsuit/ Pros The Vision is an excellent wetsuit in this price range and possesses many features you would expect to find on a more expensive wetsuit. It allows you to perform at your best. A brilliant entry level wetsuit! RRP ÂŁ220
Flexible Comfortable Easy to get on and off Looks great Warm Reduced drag Core support
Gadgethead Magazine
Atmos Aegis Convection Vaporizer The Aegis kit comes nicely packaged with a cool little flip down side opening, included in the kit is Vaporizer, USB charger, cleaning brush, packing tool, replacement filter and user manual. This dry herb vaporiser uses an advanced convection heating method and features temperature controls that range from 320°F to 430°F. Made from a hardanodised chamber with an isolated airflow design and unique filtration system, the Aegis produces a pure and flavourful vapor. There is a 1650mAh lithium-ion battery and the Aegis features an LED screen that displays 6
the temperature and remaining battery. It has an easy access mouthpiece that twists off for quick and hassle-free refilling, it uses a silicon filter to help prevent particles from escaping the mouthpiece whilst at the same time letting the vapor through. The silicon composition makes it easy to remove the filter and clean it out faster than traditional metal filters but without compromising
performance or flavour too much. The Aegis advanced convection method uses the air to heat the product, which prevents the dry herbs from coming into contact with the heating element that offers the benefit of longer lasting dry herbs. The Aegis has a sleek design with a clean glossy black finish and LED screen gives it a high-quality aesthetic. To activate you must press the main power button three times in quick succession, this will lock or unlock the Vaporiser, the device will then start heating up to your
https://www.atmosrx.com/aegis-dry-herb-vape Pros Looks great Easy to use Quick to heat up
Cons Silicone insert taints the flavour
desired temperature. The two buttons either side of power button can be used to adjust the temperature by using the up and down buttons, the AEGIS then heats up to your desired temperature very quickly in just under 15 seconds and provides a light and smooth draw. We found the Aegis easy to use with a simple and intuitive interface but the silicone insert could turn off more discerning users at is does have an impact on the flavour. RRP $139.95 Gadgethead Magazine
Atmos Vicod 5G The Vicod 5G 2nd Generation, Atmos’ most compact and discreet vaporisers available, is powered by a 2200mAh lithium-polymer battery and uses advanced temperature controls; these range from 300F to 435F and feature an embedded ceramic heating chamber that is used to vaporise dry herbs and produce a pure vapor. The device is equipped with a temperature memory function so will automatically begin heating up the temperature you had it set to the last time you used it. The Vicod 5G 2nd Generation also includes a new waxy cup, giving you the option to vape wax consistency products as well as dried herbs. Its compact reinforced structure and rubberised housing feels high quality and durable and provides a 8
heat-resistant finish as well as a comfortable grip. The Vicod 5G has a redesigned OLED display that is brighter and clearer to read than previous models. For the 2nd Generation Vicod 5G, there have been significant upgrades to the battery, functionality, and heating chamber of the original Vicod. This has been done by creating a more powerful motherboard complete with Dual IC Protection as well as a variety of other protections,
the devices built-in thermostat has also been upgraded creating a more accurate heating temperature. The Vicod 5G comes with USB charger cable, cleaning brush, packing tool and glass mouthpiece. To use this vaporiser you have to pull on the mouth piece to access the chamber, the smooth texture makes this a fiddly job and I fear that with repeated use the mouth piece could become loose over time. You will need to press the button 5 times to turn the device on, the Vicod 5G will then quickly heat up to your desired temperature, then you can adjust the temperature by selecting either up
or down with illuminated arrows, this allows you to choose your temperature to the exact degree. The Vicod 5G is pleasant to use, quick to heat up and charge up with a battery life of about 1 hour 30mins. On top of that it looks great, it is discrete, and a breeze to clean. RRP $129.95
https://www.atmosrx.com/Vicod-5G-2nd-Generation Pros Charges in under and hour Temperature memory Discrete and compact Durable Easy to use Simple to clean Two mouthpieces included
Gadgethead Magazine
Smoketech G-Priv Kit The Smoketech G-Priv Kit comes with the 1 G-Priv 220 Box Mod, Smok TFV8 Big Baby Tank, 1 Preinstalled V8-X4 Coil Head, 1 Replacement V8-T6 Coil Head, 1 Replacement Glass Tube, Spare Parts and an instructional manual. Though strangely enough, it does not come with the batteries you will need to get it working. The SMOK G-Priv has a 2.4inch shatterproof touch screen that looks very cool on the side of the device, it has a wattage of 220W, and an extensive temperature suite. The G-Priv TC mod supports Ni200 Nickel, Titanium, and Stainless-Steel wires, the Smok TFV8 Big Baby Tank feature the same 24.5mm diameter profile of the TFV8 but just 3mm taller in height than the Baby Beast. The TFV8 Big Baby Beast also features top fill design and supports TFV8 Baby coils: V8 Baby-X4 Core, V8 Baby-T6 Core, V8 Baby-T8 Core, V8 Baby-Q2 Core and V8 10
Baby RBA. Available in 11 colourful designs and with 18 different battery covers, the G-Priv is an attractive piece and feels light and comfortable in your hand. The G-Priv features a screen-lock button that can be pressed once to light up the screen or switch the screen off, or you can press and hold it down to lock the screen completely, so that it won’t activate buttons whilst in your pocket. You don’t need to unlock the device to fire a draw, press it five times and it will lock the vape function and click 3 times to unlock the vape function. There are five drawing effects:
Min, Max, Soft, Normal, and Hard. There’s a temperature control range of 200-600F, plus the screen can also let you know the time and date, battery life, the power output and how many puffs you have taken that day. You can even set yourself a limit if you are using the vape to cut down on nicotine. The G-Priv is a cool little vape, but all the extra features do is jack up the sales price without really adding anything to the vaping experience that you couldn’t get at a lower cost. If you like things a little flashy this could be fun, but ideally, I would like to see the screen lock itself after a set period of time like your phone does to avoid accidents in your pockets. Other than that it feels great and works well. RRP $199.99
https://www.smoktech.com/kit/g-priv Pros 2.4inch OLED touch screen Max output 220W Temperature Control 200F-600F Beautifully design options for customisation
Cons Screen doesn’t automatically lock
Gadgethead Magazine
GolfBuddy LD2 The LD2 by GolfBuddy is a GPS golf watch designed for women, because all women have evolved from magpies (true story). We are all instinctively drawn to shiny objects so the LD2 wouldn’t be a “ladies” watch without some Swarovski crystals stuck on it. Needless to say I am not a fan of the pointless sparkle on a chunky digital watch, but the added bling may attract some people. More importantly is how the LD2 performs as a technical accessory. It is small, lightweight (1oz with battery) and comfortable to wear. It will provide you with distances to front, centre and the back of the green, distances to hazards, dual shot distance measurement and automatic course recognition. The
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watch is made from a genuine leather strap with alligator grain, premium mineral crystal lens and stainless-steel crown button and bezel. It is water resistant and runs off a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides you with 6 hours in GPS modes or a whopping 9-weeks in standard watch mode. The main screen in golf mode will display the back, centre (this is the middle number), and front of the green. It will also show the hole number,
left or right green (if applicable) and the par information. The distances to hazards displayed on the LD2, the end of the hazard (top number) and the start of the hazard (bottom number), are displayed on one screen with hazard icons with up to 11 targets and hazards available per hole. The Dual Shot Distance feature lets you track 2 shots separately, for example drive and approach, or 2 shots simultaneously, for example your drive and your golfing partners drive. The End of Round Summary will show you the time it took to complete the round and the total distance
you travelled during play. The watch is compact and discrete to wear, the display looked very dated, and it is a bit of a hassle working around the menus, while the user manual makes things even more confusing. However, we found that the GPS is accurate and its features are useful. RRP ÂŁ139.99
www.golfbuddyglobal.com/products/LD2.asp Pros Waterproof up to 10 meters Distances to hazards Distances to front/centre/back of the green Distances to hazards Dual Shot Distance Measurement Automatic course/hole recognition GPS Tracking/Odometer
Cons Tacky design Confusing manual Out dated display
Gadgethead Magazine
Abbot Freestyle Libre The FreeStyle Libre is a painless scan, that displays your current glucose reading and offers a range of reports that allows you to analyse your data and help you understand how best to manage your health. The kit comes with the Libre reader and two sensors to get you started which last 14 days each. To use you must apply the sensor to the back of the upper arm with the applicator, when the sensor is applied, a thin, flexible and sterile fibre is inserted just under the skin and is held in place with an adhesive pad; this application is no more painful than the regular finger prick. To get a reading you use the reader to perform a 1-second scan over the sensor, the FreeStyle Libre then offers software to generate reports to analysis of glucose data. Each scan will give you a
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glucose reading, the last 8-hours of glucose history, and a trend arrow showing if glucose is going up, down, or changing slowly. The reader can scan through clothing and the sensors are water resistant making it suitable for baths, showers and exercising. Plus, due to the sensor storing the latest 8 hours of data, you only need a minimum of three scans per day to get 24 hours of glycaemic readings. The reader shows you trend arrows to highlight ups, downs and night-time lows, you can scan as many times as you like to see how certain
foods and exercise impact your glucose levels. The Libre allows you to set customisable reminders and alerts with either sound or vibration and you can add notes alongside your data. There is the option of downloading the FreeStyle Libre software to gain access to different reports, including the ‘Glucose Pattern Insights’, which includes an assessment of Glucose Control Measures and the Ambulatory Glucose Profile. The FreeStyle Libre is small and lightweight, easy to hold and read, it is super discrete, painless and clean to obtain a scan and get a reading without lots of fuss. However the sensors are rather pricey. They’re £57.95 each bearing in mind
they only last 2 weeks, which means you would be shelling out £1506.70 for a year’s usage, which is enough for a decent holiday. So, for the readers who are rolling in money this is a great way to monitor your blood sugar level. For those who earn a more modest amount, do not even try one of these as it will only depress you to know what you will be missing when your sensors run out. RRP £159.95
https://www.freestylelibre.co.uk/libre/ Pros Painless readings Discrete Comprehensive analysis of your data Easy to use Water resistant sensors Portable
Cons Very expensive replacement sensors
Gadgethead Magazine
Sur f 3 Inspired by mountain bike technology Why choose between a four-wheel urban pushchair or a three-wheel trekking pushchair. With Surf 3 you can have both, uniquely adaptable it can switch between city and trekking modes with ease. Whether you’re in the town or country the unique suspension ensures a smooth ride.
DriveSt
Direct Attac USB 3.0 4 wheels for urban use
silvercrossbaby.com
Trekking wheel for multi terrain use
DriveStation™ Quad Direct Attached Storage USB 3.0
HD-QHU3/R5
Huge Capacity Direct Attached Storage Huge Capacity Direct Attached Storage
Buffalo Technology’s DriveStation™ Quad (HD-QHU3 series) is a 4-bay Direct Attached Storage device perfect for demanding SMB. The HD-QHU3 comes fully populated with high-reliability Buffalo Technology’s DriveStation™ WD Red™ drives in total capacities of up to 24TB.
Quad (HD-QHU3 series) is a 4-bay
™ The DriveStation Quad is RAID-enabled customised Direct Attached Storage deviceforperfect redundancy and capacity depending on your specific needs for demanding SMB. The HD-QHU3 and also comes with 10 licenses of NovaStor NovaBACKUP comes Essentials fully populated Business software. with high-
reliability WD Red™ drives in total
The DriveStation™ Quad features the capacity, redundancy, capacities of required up to 24TB. and performance for any demanding user – the perfect solution for backing up large servers, multimedia files, or databases. The HD-QHU3 series is sold fully populated with WD Red drives and total capacities of 8, 12, 16, or 24TB. HD-QHU3/R5
Features and Benefits • 4 bay Direct Attached Storage fully populated with WD Red™ hard drives - Available with 8, 12, 16, or 24TB capacities
• RAID-enabled for performance and reliability - Supports RAID 0/1/5/10/Spanning/JBOD
• Perfect for Server, PC, and/or Database Backup
Features and Benefits
- Also includes 10 free licenses of NovaStor NovaBackup Business Essentials
• Power Saving – Auto Power feature turns on and off automatically with your computer
4-bay Direct Attached Storage •• SuperSpeed connectivity with USB 3.0
fully populated with WD Red™ hard drives with 8, 12, 16, or 24TB capacities • RAID-enabled for performance and reliability - Supports RAID 0/1/5/10/Spanning/JBOD • Perfect for ™Server, PC, and/or Database Backup - Also includes 10 free licenses of NovaStor NovaBACKUP® Business Essentials • Power Saving – Auto Power feature turns on and off automatically with your computer ched Storage • SuperSpeed connectivity with USB 3.0 • 3 year warranty - Available • 3 year warranty
tation Quad
Golf Buddy CT2 The CT2 is a distance measuring device from GolfBuddy. This pocket-sized GPS has a versatile design and lot features, it has the best-in-class battery life, that will last up to 17 hours of golf in GPS mode and has a compact (2.20”x1.71”x0.90” and weighs only 1.5oz) design ideal for the green. The CT2 can fit into your pocket or clip to towel rings, belts, lanyards and golf bags. It has a dynamic green view with pin placement and distance readings from the golfer’s position, the main screen in golf mode displays the front, centre (which is the larger number) and the back of the green. It also shows the hole number, left or right green if applicable and the par information. There is also the option of switching to another screen showing the front, centre and back of the green along with the full shape of the 18
green. The GolfBuddy CT2 is 100% fee free because there are no charges for downloads or annual subscription, it comes with a guaranteed free lifetime course & software updates, it also comes with 38,000+ courses worldwide preloaded onto the device. The CT2 will provide you with distances to targets and hazards, with up to 11 targets and hazards are available per hole. The Pin Placement offers 9 moveable pins to place on the green and the Dynamic Green View shows you the shape of green and offers
distances from your true approach. There is also a Digital Scorecard to track and record your scores, you can transfer and access these scores from your account on the free GB Course Manager program. The CT2 is completely legal for tournament play, it is water resistant for protection in bad weather and features automatic hole/course recognition, has a 40,000 Course capacity, provides you with distances to hazards and will let you know the time of sunrise and sunset. All in all, the Golf Buddy CT2 is a smart little device, it is easy to use and read quickly whilst the information from the features provided can improve your game. RRP £99.99
www.golfbuddyglobal.com/products/CT2.asp Pros Compact and light Water resistant 40,000 capacity (38,000 pre-programmed) Belt clip 100% free Distances to front, centre and back of the green Pin placement 17hour battery life
Gadgethead Magazine
Rapha Rides Pro Team Lightweight Jersey
The first and most noticeable thing about this latest jersey from Rapha, is the design print, supposedly this has been inspired by the “dynamic visuals of the Rapha Rides campaign”, for me it looks like it has been inspired by the pattern on our local park and ride bus seats. It is clear to say that I am not a fan of the pattern but hey, even Rapha can’t get it right 100% of the time. Aesthetics aside, what really counts is how 20
this jersey performs. It has been designed for training and racing in warm to hot conditions, it is constructed from 86% Polyester and 14% Elastane, the
front of the jersey is a perforated 120gsm fabric to keep the top breathable and to help keep you cool. Around the back the material is a stretchy polyester fabric to provide a snug fit and protect you from the sun’s rays. In fact all the fabrics have a SPF40 sun protection treatment. The Pro Team features bonded hems,
folded-in sleeves and fewer seams all over, it is suitable for in-the-drops, on-bike position, and it has plastic VISLON zip that seamlessly glide up and down with one hand. The material is high wicking so you stay cool and comfortable even on the hardest of rides and the anti-bacterial treatment means you can confidently hug your fans at the finish line without stinking (well not too much). This Jersey is super lightweight at only 120g (in medium size), and its silky-smooth texture means that if I shut my eyes I could be fooled into thinking I wasn’t wearing anything at all, thankfully for everyone else around, I was! For storage there are triple rear pockets with smart gussets for extra storage, there is mesh fabric underneath the pockets for breathability and for extra visibility there is reflective piping on rear pocket. As with all Rapha Jerseys, if you lose weight within a year of buying a Jersey Rapha will give you
50% off getting a new size and they will also offer a free repair service in the event of a crash damaging a garment (check the website for full details of both these offers). Ignoring the 80’s style pattern, this Pro Team Jersey is everything we love about Rapha, ultra-lightweight, super comfortable with a figure hugging fit that, even on those hot summer days, allows you to perform at your best. RRP £130
http://www.rapha.cc/gb/en/shop/rapha-ridespro-team-lightweight-jersey/product/RPL01XX Pros Comfortable Lightweight 120 grams (size medium) Perforated, breathable 120gsm front Anti-bacterial treatment High-wicking SPF40 treatment Triple rear pocket
Gadgethead Magazine
LaserBand 82 Bundle One of the sad facts of growing older, on top of your skin sagging, joints creaking and taking 3 days to get over a night out, your hair becomes thinner revealing more face and head than your ever knew you had. Your forehead becomes a fivehead, sixhead, sevenhead, then eventually you look like an egg. The LaserBand 82 Bundle is a light treatment system that aims to tackle hair loss and thinning hair. In the LaserBand 82 bundle you will get the HairMax LaserBand 82, rechargeable battery, power cord, user manual, 2 year warranty and HairMax shampoo, conditioner, revitalizer and dietary supplements. The LaserBand is easy to use, you pop it on like a head band, and if the video on the website is anything to go by, you 22
should wear a cheap looking fake tan and grin like an idiot whilst it works (not sure this is compulsory). The band has 82 medical-grade lasers that deliver light directly to your hair, the curve of the band has been designed to incorporate patented hair-parting teeth which part your hair during treatment to allow the laser light a clear path straight to your follicles. As well as the hair parting teeth, the laser light intensity and the laser light density work in unison to provide the treatment for your hair. The band itself is comfortable
to wear and treatment takes as little as 90 seconds; it is required that you repeat 3 times a week. Along with the LaserBand is the Hairmax shampoo which has a lower PH and purifying formula that gently cleanses without stripping essential oils, this aims to help restore balance, optimise scalp health and enhance the vitality and volume of your hair. The Hairmax conditioner hydrates your strands, retaining moisture to strengthen and protect your hair. The Revitalizer Scalp exfoliator removes excess sebum, perspiration and product build-up that can clog hair follicles and inhibit hair growth. Alongside these are dietary supplements
that have been blended with clinically proven hair strengtheners to help support healthier hair, these supplements are as far as I can tell mostly vitamin B supplements, and you should always check with your doctor before you start popping pills, no matter what miracles they promise. We handed this piece of kit over to our favourite receding test monkey who after 6 weeks of repeated use reported‌ zero, zilch, not a single new hair on his shiny egg head. This product seems to target self-conscious people’s wallets, but hey there is a multi-billion beauty industry that has been built on the same principles, so what is one more product offering false promises? Be bold and embrace bald!!! RRP $799.99
hairmax.com/products/laserband-82-bundle Pros Shampoo smells nice
Cons Doesn’t work Feels cheap
Gadgethead Magazine
Sleepyhead Deluxe Plus Pod and Sleepyhead Grand The Sleepyhead Deluxe Plus Pod is designed to be used with babies from 0-8 months old, it provides a safe and comfortable spot for baby to sleep, rest, cosleep, lounge, play, cuddle, do tummy time and get nappies changed. The Deluxe is lightweight and portable, ideal for moving from room to room or taking to see extended family at the weekends or on holiday. All the materials are breathable, washable and hypoallergenic, plus all filling materials are also breathable, hygienic and non-toxic. The Sleepyhead can help prevent infants from waking up when they have the startle reflex due to the shape, positioning of the sides and the cushioning
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effect of the dock. The mattress is made from a thermos-bonded fibre wadding plate with a great bearing capacity which relieves pressure on the head, reducing flat-head syndrome. The surrounding bumpers can offer support and also function as a positioning prop, enabling you to alternate the baby’s resting position from back to either side. Sleepyhead has been designed to offer a safe, snug and soothing environment for babies, there are no
restrictive buckles and there are patented toy loops, which means it is compatible with the patented Sleepyhead Toy Arches and Toy Sets (both sold separately). The Sleepyhead can also be used as a spot to practise tummy time in, the rounded bumper helps prop up the baby when placed under their arms; this helps neck strength and develop their motor skills. The Sleepyhead Grand, suitable for 9-36 months, helps ease the transition from crib to toddler bed or big kid bed. The built-in air-permeable bumpers prevent the child from overheating, and act as bed rails while giving the little one a snug
http://www.sleepyheadwebshop.com/en/ Pros Portable Can be use as co-sleeping or as a cot insert Promotes tummy time Relieve symptoms of flat-head syndrome Snug and comforting Air-permeability Reduces Startle Reflex Transition to bigger beds (Grand)
Cons Expensive Spare covers pricey at £50-£97
sense of security in their change to a bigger bed. The Grand can also be used for sleeping, cuddling, playing, lounging or resting. It is equally portable and made from the same materials, just it’s bigger. Additional covers are available at an extra cost, we received the Deluxe Plus in the Mrs. Mighetto Nighty Night
option, a beautiful desaturated dream like design. The Grand was received in the Minty Trellis design. The Deluxe Plus is a very versatile product and we found it particularly handy for daytime sleeping without the need to lug the Moses basket back and forth from the bedroom. The Deluxe Plus went down a treat with 2 out of 3 babies (number 3 was having none of it), and the Grand helped one particularly stroppy toddler feel snug in his new big bed. The biggest downside is the high price tag which could make it a risk not worth taking for some new parents. Deluxe Plus Pod RRP 140 EUR, Grand RRP 240 EUR. Gadgethead Magazine
Coleman Basalt Single Having the right sleeping bag when camping is important. Lack of sleep can easily ruin any trip; trying to get to sleep when you are too cold isn’t a lot of fun, and waking up sweating you butt off is equally unpleasant. The Basalt Single is a sleeping bag from Coleman that promises the ultimate in camping comfort - it is made from a 100% Polyester Mircofibre shell and 100% Polyester Pongee lining with, you guessed it, 100% Polyester insulation (seriously, keep away from the campfire), comprised of a double layer of Coletherm on top and a single layer Coletherm on the bottom. Coletherm is a synthetic insulation with hollow fibres that create air pockets
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to retain warmth. It features a high loft for comfort, is compressible and won’t be affected by machine washing. As a Comfort rated sleeping bag, it is suitable for mild weather and will keep you warm at temperatures as low as -3˚C. It has an oversized design, 225 x 80cm, with soft materials to create a sleeping experience that’s more like sleeping in your own bed - this means that the Basalt isn’t suitable for back packing, as even when
it is packed down it is still 20 x 40 x 43cm, which is on the large side. The Basalt has an anti-odour treatment that reduces odourforming bacteria from growing up to 99%. The ZipPlow prevents the zip from snagging on the surrounding material by ploughing fabric away from the zip, and there is also a built-in inner pocket to keep valuables or small items safe whilst you sleep. The Basalt is a comfortable sleeping bag and its low cost makes it best suited for summer camping trips or festivals. RRP £37.99
http://www.coleman. eu/uk/p-26717-basaltsingle-sleeping-bag.aspx Pros Cheap Suitable for temperatures as low as -3ËšC ZipPlow Antibacterial treatment Machine washable
Cons Large
Gadgethead Magazine
Linksys MAX-STREAM AC600 Wi-Fi Micro USB Adapter The Linksys MAX-STREAM AC600 Wi-Fi Micro USB Adapter upgrades Windows-based PCs to NextGen AC Wi-Fi and makes it MU-MIMO (Multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output) ready, allowing the Wi-Fi router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously at a faster and more efficient way. In our household alone, we have seven devices connected at any one time, which often results in slow loading and buffering. The Linksys Adapter comes with a Quick Start Guide and CD-ROM with setup software and resources. You should be able to plug in a device and it will automatically start the installation, but 28
for whatever reason it wouldn’t recognise the device on my laptop. I am blaming this on my rubbishy laptop rather than the adaptor, so I had to use the website to start the download. Once downloaded, you have a choice of selectable dual Wi-Fi bands. The adapter operates on either band to help avoid interference,
using Wireless-AC technology with speeds of up to 433Mbps and advanced wireless security that allows you to safeguard your network with wireless WPA/WPA2 encryption and Wi-Fi Protected Setup. Its compact design measures at 40.64mm X 18.034mm X 11.938mm and a weight of 5.9g. All this means it is an unobtrusive, portable piece. It uses a 5GHz band to offer speeds up to AC433 Mbps, three times the performance of Wireless N, and a 2.4 GHz band to offer
speeds up to 150 Mbps. Beamforming technology focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly to your laptop or desktop computer from your router for a reliable signal, and it is compatible with all Wi-Fi routers. I didn’t think my laptop was slow until I started to use the adaptor - it boosted connection about three times over, which was impressive. This easy-touse, small but powerful adaptor is well worth the money. RRP £24.99
https://www.linksys.com/gb/p/P-WUSB6100M/ Pros MU-MIMO Wireless-AC technology with speeds of up to 433Mbps Selectable Dual Band Wireless WPA/WPA2 encryption and Wi-Fi Protected Setup. Easy to set up Compact and portable
Gadgethead Magazine
Quad Lock Bike Kit iPhone7 As smartphones slowly absorb every other gadget’s purpose into their own arsenal like some unstoppable technical amoeba, it’s become increasingly difficult to leave you phone behind when participating in any activity. Yes, you could leave your phone at home whilst you enjoy a pleasant bike ride around the countryside with no destination or time limit, but what is the point in doing anything if you can’t monitor, analyse your results and then show off on social media? I might sound cynical, but in reality, I can’t remember when I last went for a ride without my phone strapped to my arm - it is addictive. Given this, the last thing you need is to risk your phone falling from your bike and slow-mo bouncing into a thousand expensive pieces, losing everything from your ten-mile personal
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best to your high score on candy crush. The Quad Lock Bike Mount is the lightest, strongest and most secure bike mount available, thanks to the Patented Quad Lock dual locking system, and comes with everything you need to mount to your bike. With your phone securely mounted to your frame, you can use fitness apps to track your ride or GSP to help navigate your journey. The website states, “No need to miss messages or tweets while on the go”, but they obviously haven’t been in the Norfolk countryside - good luck finding reception! The Quad Lock is
compatible with all Quad Lock Mounts and accessories. The iPhone 7 case is slim, protective and looks great. The Bike Mount Pro mounts on both stem and handlebars, and fits tube diameters ranging from 25-40mm in diameter. For larger diameters, the mount can be secured with longer zip-ties. The Bike Kit also comes with a weather resistant Poncho slip-on cover to protect from rain, dust, dirt, sweat and mud. The Quadlock is an awesome little mount: you can attach and detach it with one hand, and the slim case means you can protect your phone when off the bike and still slip it into your pocket excellent value for money. RRP £54.95
https://www.quadlockcase.co.uk/products/bikekit-iphone7 Pros Lightest, strongest and most secure iPhone 7 bike mount Patented dual-stage locking Strong Looks good Protective poncho Can be used with one hand
Gadgethead Magazine
Campingaz Powerbox Plus 28L 12/230V Electric Cooler Every year without fail, when we go camping, we seem to forget that we won’t have a fridge or freezer. How we haven’t learnt this yet, I’m not sure, but it always results in about six of us turning up with enough meat to feed an army and an attempt to cook and eat it all on the same night. Well, not this year! We managed to get our hands on the Powerbox Plus, a 28L active cooler that operates off of a 12V car plug-in or a 230V electrical outlet (both cables included). It features a high performance injected PU foam that will keep the contents at 18˚C
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below the ambient temperature. This cooler has a control dial with three modes, allowing you to choose its performance and efficiency level. Night mode reduces the noise level of the fan, so as not to disturb you whilst you are trying to sleep, Eco mode is
an environmentally friendly mode that gives the cooler an A++ energy rating when in operation, and the Max mode is available for the ultimate cooling performance. The PowerPlus has an antimicrobial liner to prevent the growth of microorganisms that spoil food, and to also ensure resistance from mould and mildew growth inside the cooler. This also helps to block unpleasant odours from developing. Its
28L capacity can fit 8 x 1.5L bottles. The locking lid give an audible click on when you close it, so you know it is properly closed, it features an over-the-top carry handle and if only weighs 3.8kg when empty, making it easy to carry about. It is as compact as it can be at only 41 x 31x 47 cm, so it won’t take up too much room in the car boot. Altogether, this is a cool little cooler (yes, I get paid for these puns) that uses minimal energy for maximum effect. RRP £69.99
https://www.campingaz.com/uk/p-27447powerbox-plus-28l-12230v-electric-cooler.aspx Pros Compact 18˚ below ambient temperature Four modes Runs off 12V car plug or mains Antimicrobial liner
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Camping Gaz GT2000PZ Garden Torch We have had a pretty rubbish summer so far: a few hot days here and there mixed with rain, cold temperatures and even snow - typical England. Because of this, we have rather shamefully neglected our back garden, but I was still surprised by how overgrown it had become when I finally dared
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to venture out there. Due to living in rented accommodation, we are limited to what we can do with the space, so it remains a rather boring gravelly
rectangle with very little sunshine, where even lavender will die. This doesn’t stop the weeds, however; dandelions dominate the landscape, interspersed with nettles and dock weed - not the ideal setting for a BBQ. Now, my partner
and I will always try to find the easiest possible way to do any kind of household chore, and when we saw the Camping Gaz garden torch it seemed like the answer to our problems. Due to the high population of cats in our area (plus two of our own), I don’t like using chemical weed killers, so this seemed like a great alternative. The GT2000 PZ Garden Torch has a wide rectangular shaped burner ideal for covering more ground. It is light-weight, only 480g, so it is easy to use for extended periods of time without your arms aching. It features a piezo ignition and adjustable flame, ergonomic handle and uses a replaceable Garden Gas CG3500 GA cartridge that comes included. The flame temperature reaches
1800°C, but it’s the pressure that makes this torch slightly less effective than it could be. I’m not saying I want to run around with an army-grade flamethrower (well, I kind of do), but a little more power would make weeding with this a quicker job. It worked well on one the creeping weeds and the smaller stuff, but the more sizeable dandelions probably held too much water for the torch and it took ages to get anywhere. Our final thoughts are that if you keep on top of your garden, this is probably a quick way to weed, and it is a useful tool for tricky spots like brick weave or paths. However, if you are like us and let it go wild, it is probably still more effective to weed the old-fashioned way. RRP £27
https://www. campingaz.com/uk/p27119-gt2000pzgarden-torch.aspx Pros Lightweight Easy to ignite and use Includes gas cartridge
Cons Not powerful enough Time consuming Not effective on bigger weeds
Gadgethead Magazine
OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator The OptiShot 2 is the world’s most popular golf simulator; it can help you improve your game, play all year round or compete with friends and family. You can play OptiShot 2 on your computer or pair it with your HDTV or projector. In the box, you get everything you need: the OptiShot2 Infrared Optical Swing Pad, OptiShot2 Software (download), 10ft USB Cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice balls, instructions, a one-year warranty and software updates. There are also 15 pre-loaded courses: the Golf Club Scottsdale, Long Island Black, Torrey White, 36
Torrey Black, Palm Desert Mountains, Palm Desert Canyons, Barsebäck Golf Club, Black Mountain, the Canadian Club, Österåkers Golf Club, West Maui Plantation, Warwick Hills Golf & Country Club, Fylde Links, Cogs Corner and Twisted Twig. The OptiShot is easy to use. A link will be sent to you after purchase to download and install OptiShot Live – once it’s downloaded, simply connect the OptiShot
2 to your computer via USB, set up your hitting net and golf mat, y step up to the tee and off you go. You can play with real golf balls, foam balls or no balls at all (insert ball-related joke here). You can use real clubs, drivers, wedges and even putters, and you can track and analyse you swing with 16 precisely tuned infrared sensors. The OptiShot 2’s premium turf can be replaced and the tough plastic housing resists any bashing and scuffing that might occur. The OptiShot is good fun, suitable for one
to four players, but it does take a little getting used to. It might not be suitable for complete beginners, and you will need a degree of control not to hit the sensors. You also cannot use the OptiShot outside, so this may be something to consider if you are looking to play in your back garden. If you are a very serious golfer you may struggle with the OptiShot too, as it isn’t that realistic, but there a lot of people who will get fun and practise out of this golf simulator. RRP £399
https://www.golfswingsystems.co.uk/productcategory/full-swing/optishot-golf-simulator/ Pros Easy to set up Fun to use Versatile 16 high-speed infrared sensors 15 real courses Compete online Solid and durable
Cons Take time to get used to Can only be used indoors
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Nextbase 412GW Dash Cam The 412GW Dash Cam from Nextbase features QUAD HD 1440p recording, which delivers images at 30 frames per second with a high frame rate option of 60fps recording at full 1080p HD. It uses six-element sharp lenses, made up of six layers of glass to provide excellent picture clarity, and it has a 140° viewing angle. It attaches via the new Click & Go magnetic mount, making it easy to install; the mount uses magnets and powered touch points, allowing the camera itself to be free from wires and therefore be easy to remove when you leave the car. The device starts automatically when you click it on the
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mount, the built-in WiFi lets you download and share recordings onto your mobile or tablet using the free app (Available on IOS or Android), and you can store footage you want to keep on your device through the app. The 412G has a large 3� 16:9 LED panel and menu selection with an easy to use touch button menu. The SOS data protection feature prevents anything recorded after an impact or unusual event from being
deleted, and the built-in GPS provides you with details of speed and location that can be viewed on your PC or Mac using the software. The 412GW can be installed via the 12V power cable or can be hardwired It supports SDHC and SDXC micro SD cards up to a 32GB, which will give you up to four hours of footage before it loops around and starts to re-record. However, the G-sensor will recognise sudden or unusual movements such as sharp braking or a collision - this recording will then be locked and cannot be recorded over. The inbuilt battery has up
to 30minute backup in the event of an accident causing the power to cut. The camera offers a decent night vision that is clear enough for identifying number plates. My only complaint with this camera is that it doesn’t come with a Micro SD - come on guys, when you are charging £130 for a product, you could at least throw in the one thing we need to get it to work. However, the 412GW dash cam is an excellent choice when looking for a front-facing dash cam: it provides beautifully clear images in both daylight and at night, it turns on and off with the ignition and can easily be removed from the magnetic attachment. RRP £129.99
www.nextbase.co.uk/dash-cams/412gw-dash-cam
Pros 140-degree wide angle QUAD 1440p High Definition recording at 30 fps 60fps recording at FULL 1080p HD Inbuilt Wi-Fi and GPS 3.0” LED Night vision Powered Magnetic Click & Go mount Compact Inbuilt battery with up to 30-minute backup in the event of an accident Easy to install SOS data protection
Cons No Micro SD included
Gadgethead Magazine
Osprey Transporter 65 Duffle Bag New on the scene is the Transporter 65 Duffle Bag from Osprey. Their bags have been designed to be tough and “adventure proof”; this expedition-style duffel bag is made from highly durable materials, is water-resistant and has a varied carrying system. Large enough to accommodate technical equipment, it is made from a super tough, TPU laminated 800D Nylon+ 0.2mm, which has excellent durability whilst keep the weight to a minimum. The transporter 65 features a yoked harness with sternum strap (with an emergency whistle that makes me feel ready for anything), to help spread the load across the body. This can then be stowed away in an integrated
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sleeve, it also has a fully detachable padded shoulder strap for another carrying option, as well as four grab handles that are useful when grabbing it out of the car boot or overhead compartment on a plane. To keep things organised, there is an external end pocket, a pocket under the lid, an internal key attachment clip, internal mesh pockets and an internal mesh side pocket, as well as internal compression straps
to help to keep the contents in place. The ID card holder makes for quick recognition and the large U-shaped opening gives quick and easy access to all your contents. The zips are lockable, which is handy for when you part company with your luggage for periods of time. The Transporter 65 weighs in at 1.41kg and has the max dimensions of 60cm x 36cm x 32cm. Transporter has four sizes in total 40, 65, 90 and 130 and comes in five colours: black, keystone grey, kingfisher blue, ‘sub lime’ and the brilliantly named ‘ruffian red’,
which we received. They all come with a zip-up bag (yes, your bag comes in a bag) that packs the bag away for storage. This is a different design to what we are used to seeing from Osprey, and it’s a tough durable product. The only thing that bothered me was that when you use the back harness, your back comes in contact with the laminated TPU, which quickly makes for a very sweaty back. On the whole, however, this is a good bag ideal for tough travel conditions, overnighters or weekend breaks. RRP £120
www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/gb_en/travel/ transporter-series Pros Durable Backpack harness, shoulder strap and grab handles Four sizes and five colours available Lockable zips ID Card holder Backpack harness stows in lid pocket Durable and highly water-resistant fabric Sternum strap with emergency whistle Compact stuff sack
Cons Back gets very warm and sweaty
Gadgethead Magazine
Osprey Stratos 50 The Stratos 50 is a hiking backpack that is packed with useful features and generous ventilation to make your outdoors adventure is as comfortable as possible. These features include Osprey’s AntiGravity technology and a fully adjustable AirSpeed ventilated back system, which is a single-piece constructed back panel and hip belt with highly breathable suspended mesh. These features provide a cushiony comfort and an even 42
distribution of the load, whilst also allowing for increased airflow to your back and waist and helping to keep your body temperature regulated. The Stratos has a clean design and comes in five sizes: 24, 26, 34, 36 and 50. The 50, which we received, comes in two colours
– ‘Beet Red’ or black although the smaller sizes come in ‘Eclipse Blue’ and ‘Gator Green’ as well. There is a detachable raincover that is stored away in the bottom pocket for extra protection against the elements, whilst the tough nylon fabrics create a durable body whether the Stratos is getting scraped through bushes, against rocks or chucked in the back of a car. For storage, the
Stratos 50 has a doubleclipped lid opening with draw-cord fastening, a large, easy access pocket in the lid and a vertical zip expansion pocket on the front that is ideal for storing a spare layer for quick access. The side of the pack has a single vertical zip that also allows access directly into the main compartment, saving you from having to open the lid and giving you better access to things that might be buried a bit deeper in the bag. The base has a zipped sleeping bag compartment with a bellowed divider, allowing the easy separation of equipment. Stratos 50 has an internal hydration sleeve which is compatible with all Hydraulics and Hydraulics LT reservoirs, and the adjustable torso length means there is no excuse to not share the load. To keep you organised, there is an internal key attachment clip, removable sleeping pad straps, side compression straps and a single ice axe loop (hell yeah) and Stowon-the-Go™ trekking pole attachment. The Stratos is a pleasure to walk with, whether it is
all-day hiking or simply to the bus stop, and there are so many added extras that make travel a breeze. A personal favourite was the twin zipped hip belt pockets, which were perfect for stashing my phone, gum and keys. This is an all-round excellent hiking companion; it will look after you so you can get one with exploring the world. RRP £130
https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/gb_en/ stratos-50-17 Pros Adjustable AirSpeed trampoline suspended mesh back system Adjustable torso length and ventilated stretch yoke and load lifters Base zip entry Raincover Internal hydration sleeve Single ice axe loop Single vertical zippered side access point Sternum strap with emergency whistle Stow-on-the-Go™ trekking pole attachment Stretch front pocket Twin zippered hip belt pockets Zippered pocket on front panel
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Osprey Fairview 70 The Fairview has been created specifically with women in mind. It is Osprey’s lightest travel backpack to date, featuring a women-specific fit created with an ergonomically shaped hip belt, harness, yoke and zip-away spacer mesh ventilated back panel. The bag is available in three sizes - 40, 55 and 70 - and in two colours – ‘Misty Grey’ and an attractive ‘Rainforest Green’. Bonus points to Osprey for being able to make a women-specific product without feeling the need to make at least some part of it pink/purple or to sneak diamante studs in somewhere (other brands should take note). So, what have we got? The Fairview comes with cushioned carry handles on the top and the sides for quick retrieval off airport baggage carousels, and there
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is a discrete, lockable zip to the main compartment to keep your contents safe when you are apart. Compression straps are used to attach and secure a 13L ‘Zip and Clip’ daypack that can be used for daily essentials when away from base - this has a top stash, scratch-free pocket for electronics and sunglasses and dual side pockets and a padded laptop sleeve. The daypack clips onto the harness of the main pack, in a ‘kangaroo’ style attachment that helps to spread the load across your body and ensures your valuables are in full view, keeping
your tickets and phone to hand. Inside the main compartment is a mesh pocket ideal for stashing dirty clothes and shoes, internal compression straps to maximise the capacity and help keep everything in place, and for overnighters you can attach a sleeping pad to the lower, removeable external straps. A die-cut spacer mesh hip-belt and padded harness provide a snug and comfortable hold, and the sternum strap with emergency/annoy the hell out of your travel partner whistle has a light-weight peripheral frame. As a woman, I found the Fairview comfortable to wear, but in all honesty, not as comfortable as some on Osprey’s
unisex bags. I was also disappointed to find that there weren’t any pockets on the hip belt. However, it has a highquality construction, good organisational features and a low weight for a bag this size, making the Osprey Fairview well worth considering. RRP £140
https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/gb_en/ fairview-70-2017 Pros Internal compression strap system Kangaroo-style daypack attachment Light-weight peripheral frame Lockable zips Padded laptop and tablet sleeve Removable 13L Daypack Scratch-proof electronics pocket
Cons No hip belt pockets Not necessarily more comfortable than unisex packs
Gadgethead Magazine
Linksys EA8300 MAX-STREAM AC2200 Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router The Linksys EA8300 MAX-STREAM AC2200 Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router comes with a router, quick start guide, Ethernet cable, power plug and warranty. It will provide all your devices with the same speed Next-Gen AC Wi-Fi, utilizing MUMIMO with intelligent Tri-Band for double the performance of a DualBand Router. If features a QuadCore processor, providing Wi-Fi speeds up to 2.2Gbps, and a quick and easy installation without the requirement of a CD. Once installed, you simply log on and go The router is suitable 4K and HD video streaming and next-gen online gaming, with multiple devices at the same time and same speed. Traditional routers and range extenders force you to manually connect to either the range extender’s or router’s network in 46
order to experience the best Wi-Fi signal as you move about your home. but with the EA8300’s Seamless Roaming support, your devices will automatically connect to the strongest Wi-Fi signal by utilizing a single network name. Pair the router with a compatible range extender to enjoy a strong, seamless Wi-Fi signal in every room of your house. The four Gigabit ethernet ports let you connect more devices and share files ten times faster than with standard ethernets, and the ultra-fast USB 3.0 port is ideal for connecting shared network storage devices as well as a range of other peripherals. The four adjustable antennas
allow for directional control so that you can cover the important areas of your home. The Linksys automatically pushes software updates to your router overnight to keep it performing at its best. The Airtime Fairness feature ensures even, fair distribution of Wi-Fi to different devices, and the Smart Connect feature balances your 5GHz Wi-Fi connections and intelligently chooses the best radio band for your devices for the best Wi-Fi performance of your network. The Linksys SPI Firewall will distinguish legitimate packets for different types of connections, and only packets matching a known active connection are allowed to pass the firewall. Linksys DoS protection will block all possible DoS attacks to
keep your network running smoothly. You can customise and manage you home Wi-Fi anytime, anywhere with the Linksys App, which lets you monitor and manage your home Wi-Fi remotely using a smartphone or tablet. The Guest Access feature allows you to create a separate passwordprotected Wi-Fi network for up to 50 guests and easily share the password, and parental controls ensure a safe internet experience for your kids even when you’re not there by allowing you to restrict their access to inappropriate or distracting content, control their usage and block specific devices from accessing the internet (“No, your tablets won’t connect until you’ve tidied your room!”) You can prioritise devices, pair it with Alexa and run speed tests. The router is quick and easy to set up, and meant I could enjoy the sunshine whilst I worked for the first time ever. It isn’t going to win any awards for style, but it does what is sets out to do, giving you control over your internet like never before. RRP £180
https://www.linksys.com/gb/p/P-EA8300/ Pros Easy to set up Great Wifi Range Quad-Core Processor Wi-Fi speeds up to 2.2 Gbps
Cons Not pretty Expensive
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Secure Your Data Hardware Encrypted (AES 256-bit) USB 3.0 External Hard Drive PIN activated (6-16 digits) Works with PC, Mac, Linux, Citrix, Android, Thin Clients and Embedded Systems
No Software required Capacities from 250GB, up to 2TB Administration feature allows 1Admin and up to 5 User PIN codes
Call +44 (0) 20 8991 6260 or visit www.istorage-uk.com
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Q-Link Acrylic SRT-3
I will admit straight away that this is normally the kind of product I would roll my eyes at, and I imagine that a lot of you will stop reading this after I explain what this product is. Q-Link work with resonating frequency technologies, which focus on the idea that every material object and every living thing has a natural resonance frequency that is determined by the object’s physical structure. According to the website, science has shown that when something is exposed to external frequencies that match its unique resonance frequency, that object literally becomes stronger more stable, and its natural energies become more coherent. Think of it like the ring from Lord of the Rings, but 50
with the opposite powers, the theory being that this energy will make you feel more relaxed and focused who doesn’t want that? Built into the pendant is a proprietary crystalline core. The pendant itself is made from a hypoallergenic injection moulded acrylic (W 36mm X H 37mm X D 3mm) and is available in 12 colours. It is extremely lightweight at only 6g, is fully waterproof and durable and comes on a 36inch black cord. The cord doesn’t have a fastening or knot, so I spent a good 15 minutes thinking back to my Girl Guide days trying to remember how to tie an adjustable knot. I got there in the end but it doesn’t look as great, and I think for the price they could have at least sent a pre-tied cord. The pendant is larger than anything else I would normally wear, and because of the plastic
material (mine is white) it doesn’t really go with my style. It looks marginally better in black, but all the other bold colours look tacky. If you want something a bit classier you will need to spend over three times the price, with the most expensive coming in £2,500. I tend to live my life with the moto “Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it” (which often results in the realisation that you should indeed knock it and/ or spend three days in bed recovering), so both my partner and I wore the pendants for two weeks. So far, we haven’t observed any magical results - we may be expecting results too soon, or just haven’t noticed any increased focus or positivity. I think if you understand the theory behind it better than we do and are more open minded to this sort of thing, it could have an impact on your life in the same way a new hair
cut can make you feel more confident. The bottom line is, if you have money to burn it could be worth a try. Who knows? In 2 months I may be rewriting this as a converted believer…or I might not. RRP £79.99
http://www.qlinkeurope.eu/qlink.cfm/id/16/QLink-Acrylic-SRT3-Pendant-Black/ Pros Lightweight Comfortable to wear Waterproof Durable
Cons Pricey No clasp or knot in the cord Large Tacky plastic design
Gadgethead Magazine
Viofo A119S 1080P Dash Cam The Viofo A119S 1080P Dash Cam (incredibly dull name) takes 1080p 60fps video recordings and is able to take clear photos of number plates even at high speeds. It comes with the A119S Car Camera, a GPS mount, a camera mount, a dual USB car charger, a USB cable, five clips and the user. The A119S supports up to a whopping 128GB Micro SD card (not included), and on top of that, it records in loops - when the Micro SD is full, the camera will loop back around and re-record over the oldest entry, meaning that your recording should never stop in the middle of a journey. The A119S features a G-Sensor and motion detection, which means it will automatically detect if there is an 52
accident and the WDR function can switch on to get sharp video recording quality. The GPS mount records the time, date, speed and GPS location all at the same time; the video and Google Map can then be played back at the same time, so you know exactly where you were and when you were there. Recordings can be viewed through the camera software, or on its 2.0” LCD screen. This camera records at 135˚, has six layers of full glass lens, an F1.6 aperture and supports an optional circular polarised lens
filter, which will help reduce glare and road reflections. I would want this lens filter to come with the camera at purchase – I don’t want to know that the camera I’m buying isn’t the best they could make it. The A119S also features a High Sensitivity sensor, which aims to reduce motion blur when recording in low light and night time. We found the A119S an adequate camera, but it was nothing remarkable. It is a rather chunky and doesn’t exactly blend in discretely on the windscreen, but it isn’t distracting either. The picture quality is ok, but not great - in low light it is fine but at night it needs to be
clearer. There is a hazard button that you can press in the event of an accident that will save the current recording – however, this is a small button immediately surrounded by four others. In a panicked, post-accident state, it would be incredibly easy to hit the wrong button, and this whole design puts too much onus on the driver to remember to hit the button at all. How many times has someone done something stupid in front of you, only for you not to remember to hit the horn? All things considered, the A119S is a useable camera that will do the basics, but with limited features, you do not get a lot of bang for your buck. RRP £99.99
http://www.viofo.com/home/34-a119s-1080p60fps-car-dash-cam.html Pros Easy to install 128GB Micro SD capable Reasonable picture quality
Cons Limited features Awkward hazard button Polarised lens not included Micro SD not included Needs foam padding on mount for curved screens Doesn’t automatically switch on
Gadgethead Magazine
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We are disclosing this as we like to be transparent about our reviews.
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