New Device Gets You on Top of Laptops
Computer aficionados will appreciate the new LapTop ICONtroller, a cursor controller for laptop computers that offers fingertip cursor control with optional speeds and three function buttons.
Until now, mouse-driven software couldn’t be used on laptops in close spaces because of lack of room.
The LapTop ICONtroller, from the Illinois-based Suncom Technologies, is compatible with Microsoft and Mouse Systems and can be connected easily to either side of the laptop with Velcro strips, which are included. It works on any laptop and can be customized to the user’s preferences.
The handy device comes with a protective carrying case, a 25-pin adapter, an extension cord and necessary software. It is “perfect for frequent travelers who need to utilize their laptops while on a plane or in a taxi,” says David Fahrner, Suncom’s director of marketing. He says the ICONtroller is ideal for Windows 3.0.
The LapTop ICONtroller (suggested retail, $99.95) has a five-year warranty. In Southern California, it is available at all Target stores, Software Etc., Electronic Boutique and Soft Warehouse. If you can’t find it in your area, contact Suncom Technologies, 6400 W. Gross Point Road, Niles, Ill. 60648; (708) 647-4040.
Sun Protection Is Made in the Shade
If you’re buying a new home or redecorating your old one with new window treatments, you’ll find Sashades a welcome help for temporarily covering your windows instead of using bedsheets, towels or newspapers.
Sashades is linen-like white material that is non-transparent, but does allow in light. A roll is 50 inches wide and 24 feet long--enough to cover up to eight average-size windows, its Toluca Lake manufacturer says--and comes with a 30-foot roll of double-sided adhesive tape.
All you need to install Sashades is a pair of scissors and a measuring tape. By using the grid pattern on the covering’s back, you can cut the material to fit any size window or sliding-glass door. Grids come in white, ivory, gray, rose and jade.
Sashades also can be used over windows for added protection from sun damage.
In Los Angeles, Sashades ($19.99 per roll) is available at all Home Club stores and at selected drapery and hardware stores. If you can’t find it in your area, contact Sashades Inc., 10153 1/2 Riverside Drive, Suite 326, Toluca Lake, Calif. 91602; (213) 851-2761 or (800) 786-2761.
Stains Won’t Stick With Washing Aid
Looking for a non-messy stain remover that you can use on soiled fabrics up to seven days before washing? You might want to try Spray ‘N Wash Stain Stick.
Manufactured by DowBrands of Indianapolis, the solid-stick soil remover is especially good for getting out greasy food and grass stains, its representatives say. It’s also safe on all colorfast and machine-washable fabrics. The stick is composed of a strong enzyme formula that penetrates stains and breaks them down so they can be lifted from the fabric during washing. After treating the stain with the remover, let it set for at least 24 hours before washing.
Stain Stick (suggested retail $2.09 for 2.8-ounce stick; $2.95 for 4.4-ounce family size) is available nationwide in supermarkets and general merchandise stores. For additional information, call (800) 428-4795.
