Germ-free
NuShield, Inc., a provider of LCD screen protection and glare-elimination technology, offers a solution to microbial contamination buildup on electronic devices and patient monitoring equipment (e.g., iPad or PC tablets, monitoring displays, computers on wheels (COW), patient warning devices, lab equipment with LCD or LED interfaces, laptop computers, smartphones, non-critical monitors and television screens up to 80 inches diagonal). A study in 2013 by the National Institutes of Health found that the use of tablets and other handheld devices leads to microbial surface contamination, according to NuShield. While disinfection with isopropanol wipes can reduce microbial accumulation, applying certain disinfection solutions could potentially disqualify the manufacturer warranty on devices. In addition, the antiglare coating on the LCD display could dissolve, leaving smudge spots.
NuShield’s Triple A antiglare, anti-microbial and anti-fingerprint overlay film is designed to eliminate germs and protect the display surface in healthcare environments. The film’s anti-microbial property has shown a reduction rate of 99 percent over a 24-hour period in laboratory tests using colon bacillus and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and reportedly stands up to cleaning with harsh chemical solvents, without degrading the anti-microbial protection. The antiglare property is said to prevent the transmission and reflection of 99 percent ultraviolet light from reaching the user’s eyes, which can cause eye-strain and computer vision syndrome. The Triple A film uses a slightly tacky silicone rubber instead of a traditional pressure-sensitive adhesive, which means the film is easily applied and removed and will not trap air. The film can be cleaned with solvent, bleach, rubbing alcohol, dilute alkalis, esters and other disinfectants to eliminate germs on the screen, and it should not dilute its anti-microbial properties.
The perfect gift
Shopping for your valentine? The folks at Digitaltrends.com have a few (high-tech) suggestions. The company reviews hundreds of tech offerings each year. Here are a few of its top selections:
- The Vtech Kidizoom Smartwatch ($60), features a variety of watch settings, games, photo/video options and other features designed for kids.
- Give the outdoor adventurer the convenience of a GPS that mounts onto handlebars with the Hammerhead Bike Navigation ($85).
- The Ninja Coffee Bar ($160) offers precision technology to transform old coffee beans into every type of java imaginable.
- The 2015 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite ($100) comes with a sizable library selection of e-Books from Amazon.
- Pebble started the smart watch revolution a few years ago, and the Pebble Steel ($150) is the company’s newer, faster and more fashionable version.
- The LG V10 features enhanced filming capabilities, a crash-proof stainless steel body and second screen ($23/monthly under contract).
Wake up!
Palo Alto Innovation, a group of gadget-loving designers, engineers and businessmen, recently announced the launch of the Sandman clock. A twist on the classic alarm clock, the Sandman Clock reportedly combines intuitive controls with a large auto-adjustable display, integrated cable management and four USB ports, which can come in handy when one must charge multiple devices (e.g., smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, fitness tracker, etc.). For more information visit www.sandmanclocks.com.
TV time
In today’s tech-cumbersome world, where are we supposed to put our Apple TV? Thankfully, that’s no longer an issue. Whereas wall-mounted television owners have been known to struggle with tunneling an HDMI cable from their television, through a wall to an Apple TV, TotalMount Pro by Apple is designed to simplify Apple TV installation. The new mount securely attaches the Apple TV to the back of one’s television, where the Apple TV is protected and there is access to the television’s HDMI port. (A power cord is still necessary, but most wall-mounted televisions have a power outlet behind the television.) The new Apple TV includes a rechargeable remote control with motion sensing, a touch surface for navigation, and Bluetooth, enabling so the remote’s signal to pass through walls. TotalMount Pro also includes a remote holder designed to assist with recharging the remote control. Priced at $29.95, TotalMount Pro is available exclusively in Apple stores and at Apple.com. It is compatible with the fourth-generation Apple TV and can be adjusted to fit the second- and third-Apple TV generations.
Charge it
Juno Power recently introduced Juno Jumper Pro, a mobile power source with a portable AC dock. By combining the dock with an external battery pack, Juno Jumper Pro is designed to transform into a 110V portable outlet, allowing users to power electronics when a wall socket isn’t available. The device can recharge a car or truck’s dead battery, as well as juice up power-hungry smartphones, tablets, cameras and more. Creating an electrical outlet anywhere allows users to tote around stereo systems and other electronics, or to power up a fan heater or 12V grill on outdoor trips. In the event of a power outage, the portable AC adapter ensures a way to run lights, keep phones charged or power radios for emergency updates. Said to be compatible with 99 percent of vehicles, Juno Jumper Pro is designed to crank as much as 600 Amps into an 18,000 mAH lithium polymer battery, over 20 times.
Juno Jumper reportedly can also charge 80 percent of laptops on the market, as well as portable car vacuums and tire inflators. A SMARTec cable (included) utilizes an onboard chip to prevent error when connected to the vehicle’s battery. If the positive cable is connected to the negative terminal, or vice versa, the cables alert the user of the incorrect connection with a loud buzz, enhancing the safety of the Juno Jumper Pro.