THE GOODS : An Improved Newton Has a Message for You
For executives on the go, Apple Computer has introduced a more versatile version of its Newton technology, the Newton MessagePad 110. This lightweight compact device (1.28 pounds) not only organizes and categorizes information, it allows the user to take notes with a telescopic pen, then translates them into computer text that can be printed out later. It also has an infra-red beaming capacity, so information can be sent to others nearby using the Newton system.
With an additional External FAX Modem card ($220), MessagePad 110 can send faxes, receive E-mail and connect to on-line services. Newton Messaging Card ($229) allows the device to act like a pager.
The MessagePad 110 has three times more memory than the original, longer battery life and a fast recharge feature. It contains a database for phone numbers, special dates and other lists, a dictionary of 13,000 words (names and other words can be added) and a “to do” list that will automatically transfer items not finished on a given day to the next day.
There are about 40 software titles that can be used with the MessagePad 110. The newest are Zagat Guide to Top U.S. Hotels and Restaurants (in 26 U.S. cities) and the Berlitz 5 Language Translator.
As a special promotion for its upgraded MessagePad 110 (suggested retail $599), Apple will include free a Newton Power Organizer Pack that’s valued at about $250 until Dec. 31. Featured in the pack are the External Fax Modem, ExpensePlus to keep track of expenses while traveling, and Notion: the Newton List Manager with 100 ready-to-list templates, as well as a travel bag.
Newton MessagePad 110 is available at retailers nationwide. For a store in your area, call Apple at (800) 365-3690, Ext. 100.
An Easy Way for Night Owls to Read in Bed
Like to read in bed? Then Nite-Owl, a high-tech book light, is for you.
Developed by Lumatec Industries of Austin, Tex., NiteOwl is lightweight (2 ounces) and has a reflector lamp that provides a glare-free white light directly on the page. A retractable neck allows the reader to slide the lamp to the desired height for reading and the adjustable head can be positioned properly for both hardcover and paperback books.
NiteOwl (suggested retail, $25-$30) is cordless (it takes two AA batteries), has an automatic switch (when you move the neck in place to read, it switches on) and anti-slip pads so it stays on the book. It can even double as a bookmark.
An A/C adapter kit ($15) is also available if you want to plug Nite-Owl into an electrical outlet at home and save the batteries for traveling.
NiteOwl can be purchased at Sharper Image stores or through its catalogue, (800) 344-4444, from Brookstone, (800) 926-7000, or from Lumatec, (800) 776-7945.
Get Those Stains (and Smells) Out
Sherry’s Miracle II is a new liquid stain remover and odor dissolver that neutralizes odors on carpet, upholstery or wood floors by using bacteria and enzymes to rid the affected area of smells.
Biodegradable and solvent free, it seems especially effective on pet odors and stains on carpet and upholstery, but also removes a variety of stains, including crayon, grass, blood, coffee and tea.
To order, send a check to Sherry’s Miracle, 12115 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood, Calif. 91607. Or, in California, call (800) 774-3779. Sherry’s Miracle II comes in several sizes: one pint ($10); two ($20); three ($29); four ($36); five ($45); six ($54). Add $2.50 for shipping and handling.
