Product Description

Toshiba Satellite M45-S331 Notebook PC State-of-the-Art Computing At 6.2 lbs., the Satellite M45 is highly mobile, outperforming many desktops with technology designed specifically for mobile PCs. All systems include a 15.4" wide-screen TruBrite display to make images brighter and more vivid.Push this machine as far as you want; it can take it! Enjoy notebook-optimized Intel Centrino Mobile Technology, Microsoft Windows XP Operating System, hard drives to 100GB hard drive¹, and integrated high speed wireless LAN, all in one sleek chassis. The DVD-SuperMulti optical drive reads and writes to the most popular CD and DVD formats, making it perfect for movie making, or file archiving and exchange.At only 6.2 lbs., this system offers high-performance Intel Centrino Mobile Technology, Windows XP Home, an 80GB HDD, an IEEE 1394 port, and integrated high speed wireless LAN. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Nice for the money, but Tech Support is the pits!
I purchased this notebook for my daughter less than a month ago.She was very happy with it, and I was pleased with what we got for the money.Then the DVD drive began having problems.To make a long story short, after several calls to Toshiba it was finally determined that the drive must be replaced.The closest authorized service center is almost 40 miles away, so we must send it off to Toshiba and be without it for up to 2 weeks.I have dealt with other computer manufacturers who have sent out a technician to correct a problem covered under warranty.Why can't Toshiba do this?Or at least have a few more authorized service providers.I'm not exactly out in the sticks.There are several businesses in my area who could provide this service for Toshiba's customers.

A HORRIBLE Experience

Sleek notebook, but that’s the only positive.My absolute worst fears all came true only three weeks after I bought it.

Within three weeks the screen had died on me.Called the warranty service who advised me to send it to the Toshiba depot for repair, as opposed to taking it to a local service center.They assured me that the depot would have all the necessary parts, whereas a service center will have to order them and wait.They also assured me that I’ll have my notebook back in about a week.

Three weeks later, after countless phone calls, and many promises of delivery “next week”, they finally told me that parts are still not available and that it would take two additional weeks before they get them.

I called customer relations several times (get used to 45 minutes on hold, don’t bother leaving messages, they never return calls despite the promise of “within the hour”).Every time I was assured that this time they’ll get it right and that I’ll get my notebook within days.

Needless to say, two weeks passed, and the assurances turned to be meaningless.Customer relations’ only job is to get you off the phone, not to solve your problem.So here I am with a brand new notebook that spent twice as much time in the repair shop than on my desk.I called customer relations again, and asked to speak to someone who will actually do something to solve my problem, perhaps send me a replacement unit.I bought the notebook because I needed it, and I just can’t defer using it indefinitely.Guess what they told me?There’s not such thing as someone who could do something.There is no replacement policy.I’ll just have to wait for the part until it arrives – whenever that is.

A new notebook is not supposed to break right out of the box, but if it does, a respectable manufacturer should stand by their product and make up for the inconvenience to the customer. Toshiba has been utterly disappointing on all counts.

Poor Battery + Lots of Junk.....
Hi,

The Batter Performance is Poor. The salesman at Circuity City will BS to get their product sold. It hardly lasts more than 80 minutes. The Laptop is loaded with JUNK. It sux!!!!

I installed Red Hat Linux 9.0 and XP Pro with SP2.
Their are no Network Card Drivers for Linux, so I can easily say forget about your wireless working on Linux. Shame on both Toshiba and Intel for not supporting the same.

The system cannot hibernate nor turn itself off even after installing battry saver options that accompanied the CD.

So I have had a horrible experience. Pretty much whatever I want I don't get.I will never ever BUY Toshiba.

Love my Toshiba M45-S331!!
After some research, I was down to Toshiba M45-S331 and Dell 6000. Finally got Toshiba although it was more expensive(especially considering Dell online deals). So far am very satisfied and love its built quality and feel as compared to others in the same price & specs range.

PROS:
1. Great specs for the price
2. TruBrite screen
3. Harman/Kardon speakers
4. Keyboard Layout
5. Bridge-Media Aapter

CONS:
1. PC2700 RAM instead of a DDR2
2. Relatively less Battery Life. (< 3 hrs on a full-charge)

I experienced the FREEZING/LOCK-UP problem on plugging the AC Power Cord and have seen numerous such topics online. Toshiba Support insisted its a hardware problem but was not convinced.

Was finally able to solve this problem by tweaking the Power settings of the Laptop...

1. Go to "Power Management Icon" from your system-icon-tray on bottom-right corner of the screen. (It gives information about Current Power Source, Remaining Battery and Power Profile)

2. Right-click it and select "TOSHIBA POWER SAVER SETTINGS".

3. Click "SETUP OPTIONS" button on bottom-left of the window

4. "UNCHECK" the box marked "Change Power Source Profile Automatically".

Once you have done this....you should hopefully no longer have the freezing or locking problem when you switch to AC Power.

new laptop
This is the first time I purchased a laptop and cannot really compare to other laptops.However after a few minutes using this laptop, I realised that there was absolutely no noise coming from the laptop .. incredible .. very quiet!I was annoyed by the tons of software which were installed on it (most of them as trial) .. it took me a whole day to remove everything and install my software.

Screen is wonderful and you have to get used to work on a wide screen.The touch pad is excellent. ... Read more

Features

• Tilt Wheel Technology makes scrolling easier, smoother, and faster than ever
• Longer battery life -- up to 6 months
• Comfortable in either hand
• Superior tracking speed translates into precise cursor movement and accuracy
• Compatible with Macs and PCs

Reviews (22)

Nice mouse :)
Nice mouse, feels very good in your hand, smooth movement and precise. Only the slightest hint of lag, noticeable in games but non-existent anywhere else. Tilt wheel is a useless gimmick, even a disadvantage. The whole wheel feels weird with fluid STEPLESS rotation which makes it TOTALLY NOT suitable for FPS games: it's overly sensitive, so sometimes you TOUCH it by accident and find the next (or previous) weapon in your hands, very frustrating in the middle of a fight, and because if the same reasons, you can't really make use of the middle mouse button in games (or more likely anywhere), the button needs a very firm press to begin with which is discouraging. I would say the whole wheel (scroll, tilt and button) are the mouse's drawback, may be the only. M$ should ditch the gimmick wheel in favor of something more practical and pleasant to use. How about the wheel that was on the original intellimouse with intellieye? IMO that is THE wheet to beat.

Pretty Darn Good (in Spite of the Company)
As much as I am compelled to bash Microsoft for their buggy software, I can't help recommending this mouse. A previous reviewer noted the different shape, but to me the shape actually gives you the sense of a more secure grip on the thing. I admit though it took a few weeks to get used to. My only other observation is a lack of feedback in the scroll wheel. In the old wheel mice you could feel a slight notch at each increment that you rolled the wheel. Not so with this one. So this too takes a bit to get used to when estimating how far you need to roll the wheel in order to go half-way down a page. But those are truly minor quibbles. The installation was a breeze, and it does go easy on the AA batteries. The tilt wheel is a bit of a novelty, but it actually does come in handy on occasion. As far as optical mice go, it is very responsive. You certainly can't go wrong on the price. If you've never used an optical mouse, imagine never having to clean crud and dust bunnies out from inside around the mouse ball. Overall, I'd say if you're in the market for a new mouse and don't need buttons all over it (like the more expensive wireless Intellimouse), snap this one up.

Excellent value
Bought this great mouse in January and although I use it approximately an hour a day, maybe two....the original batteries are still going strong. Very easy to use and a pleasure not having the wire in the way.

Crummy
This mouse is the most awkward and non-ergonomic mouse of any of the MS products I have ever used. It has a weird, tapered, bulbous base that forces your fingers into positions that are not natural. It actually feels more comfortable if you grab it backwards.

My simple MS Intellimouse Optical (corded) mouse blows this one away in shear comfort.

The side-scrolling wheel takes up too much real estate on the top of the mouse. The wheel action offers no positive feedback if you rely on that feature in games. I do.
The wheel button includes a feature to toggle through open applications. First of all, I usually have 10 things open at once so its faster to use the taskbar. Secondly, the pressure required to activate the button is brutal.

I was a bit dismayed to find that the driver was not Win98 compatible. All over box it says 'Windows and MAC'. Only in the fine print on the bottom of the box does it say Win2000 or WinXP only! My bad for not reading every square inch of the box.

I'm a big fan of Microsoft products in general. They USUALLY do their homework, but this one must have been designed by the new guy. The smooth scrolling works great in documents and web pages. But that feature alone does not compensate for the wack ergonomics.

Best Mouse I have ever used
This mouse is very responsive, great feel in your hand, excellent battery life and looks great.

I have had this mouse at work for 5 months and the battery level is still almost full and I use it 8 hours a day 5 days a week. I used the high end logitech and the shape just didnt feel a quarter as good as this mouse. The sideways scroll is great for use in excel spreadsheets but nothing else really.

People this mouse is not for a laptop, the size of the receiver would defeat the purpose of use with a laptop there are better solutions available with smaller wireless mice for laptops.

This mouse is great in games, yes the scroll button is hard at first to swtich weapons but when you get used to it, it is smooth and very nice to use.

I would definately buy another one of these mice. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Minolta's DiMAGE Scan Dual IV provides a high-quality 35mm film, slide, and APS film scanning solution. Scanning is achieved using the accompanying film and slide holders (APS film holder must be purchased separately), delivering up to 3,200 dpi resolution. Ideal for serious photo enthusiasts and professionals alike, the DiMAGE Scan Dual IV offers Pixel Polish, Auto Dust Brush, and Grain Dissolver to correct and enhance your photo images.

Pixel Polish restores film images that have faded over time as well as those that suffer from light-distortion (under-exposure, backlighting, and so on). Auto Dust Brush automatically cleans any dust or lint that may have been scanned with your film. It can also be used manually as a separate plug-in with certain Photoshop versions to give you more precise control of removal parameters and to let you preview results. Grain Dissolver removes excess grain that may be visible when scanning high-speed film or that may appear in images scanned at very high resolutions.

The DiMAGE Scan Dual IV offers fast USB 2.0 connectivity for both PC and Mac users. It can perform batch scanning (up to six filmstrip frames or four mounted slides) or multi-sampling (2x, 4x, 8x, 16x), and lets you control a large number of factors such as tone curve, histogram, sharpness, brightness, exposure, and color balance. The system comes with Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0.

What's in the Box
Minolta DiMAGE Scan Dual IV, 35mm film holder FH-U2, slide mount holder SH-U1, USB cable UC-2 (USB 2.0 compatible), AC adapter AC-U25, CD-ROM for DiMAGE Scan Dual IV, Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0 ... Read more

Features

• Delivers sharp 3,200 dpi color scans with 16-bit A/D conversion
• Multi-sample scanning; batch scanning using film and slide holders
• 35mm and slide mount holders; supports optional APS adapter
• Pixel Polish, Auto Dust Brush, and Grain Dissolver for optimized image results
• Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0; USB 2.0 interface, PC and Mac compatible

Reviews (12)

Superb precision instrument - but NOT a Plug & Play device
After studying professional reviews (including CR), I decided on the Dual4. Forewarned by other users' comments about troublesome startup, I followed the manual's detailed installation instructions step-by-step. No problem whatever! Realize well that this is NOT a Plug-and-Play unit you just plug into a USB2 slot; if you do, Windows will use its own lame-duck generic WIA scanner driver, and gone are all the wonderful enhancements that Minolta's marvelously sophisticated scanning software offers. THE big secret is patience; precisely follow the instructions (same goes for my HP flatbed scanner) -- install the software from the CD first, and *only then* connect the USB cable when you are instructed to do so. If you don't: well just read what dissatisfied reviewers have to say. Also, when the manual tells you to initialize the scanner "with the door closed", it doesn't explicitly tell you to remove the film holder [it's the only way you can close the scanner door, after all]. Although better written and organized than an Asian DVD-player manual, there are some dense spots that you will need to explore on your own. Still, you can't unlock all the treasures of the software until you read (painstakingly, I might add) the software capabilities. I've only had the scanner for a few weeks but, once I learned how just a hair on the negative will magnify to a tree trunk on the print, it does an astonishing job of converting analog film slides to digital images that you can enhance in the accompanying complete PhotoShop Elements 2 software. A magnificent tool indeed but, like any precision tool, it needs careful adherence to instructions and some experimentation to realize its full potential. An unbeatable harware product, with software fine-tuned to provide the ultimate in quality images. Even so, lack of online tech support, such as simple driver updates, is disconcerting. Ask Amazon for tech support? You must be kidding!

IMPRESSED
I am totally impresed with this scanner. I was scanning 35mm film with an Epson 2450. What a difference! More latitude in the tonal range. Very sharp, Scanner has auto and manual focus. Professional driver software. Images consistant in color from scan to scan.
Have not used the dust remove feature yet. So far all my negs and trans are flawless. Even thou it is only 3200 dpi, if you know photoshop, the quality of the scans are so good I have no problems enlarging to 36x24 poster. I did a test and enalrged in the computer to 100 inches and just checking it out on the monitor it still held together NO PROBLEMS!
Have had the scanner for about a month and use it everyday and have had no start up problems or any other sort of problems, yet. But then again I use a MAC. Read the instruction manual before you do anything!
Anyway, well worth the $270 I spent !

I love it!!!!
For the price this is the best film scanner I have ever used. I have scanned close to 9000 slides and negatives since I purchased it in February. It is easy to use and I have been quite pleased with the color balance and exposures it returns. Images are all sharp and crisp. I just wish it would scan 120 and 220 film.

Good scanner, startup procedure a little twitchy
Yeah, I hear what some of the other reviewers are saying about the documentation and the fussy startup process - however complaining that you have to follow the instructions _exactly_ when installing it seems a bit odd to me... I had no problem with the install but then again I don't have a problem following instructions ;->.

But all that said, once you get it right it's a very good scanner. I've used others and this is by far the best. I'm suprised to hear the one reviewer complain about the sharpness of the shots - my scanner does an excellent job. I've scanned in over 500 slides so far (archiving the parent's slide collection from the 60s) and they look great.

The dust remover feature works reasonably well, although I've turned off all the pixel polish and image adjustment stuff - it doesn't make that big of a difference on my shots and makes the resulting images bigger.

The batch scan is great - I just sit here and work on other stuff and feed in 4 slides at a time. I've tried both color slides and negative film, both look excellent.

For those still frustrated by the startup sequence - here's what I do and it works every time.

1. Turn on your computer, let it boot.
2. Once up, turn on the scanner with the door closed.
3. Fire up the scanning software you want to use (batch scan, easy scan etc...).
4. once it barks at you to put the film in properly, then open the door and feed in your tray.

After that, you're good to go. I find if you deviate from the process you can come to grief. Once up, I've never had it fail and I've crammed through 150 slides at a sitting without a hitch.

Good but Quirky
1) The lack of any product support is infuriating as stated by the others.
2) The resulting images and flexibility of features provided are amazing... and I did not say "at this price." I don't consider a $270 gizmo for a $1300 computer cheap. It's over 1/5 the price of a high end host machine.
3) The scanner works well, has user friendly film strip and slide holders, does everything I expected it to do. A lot of flexibility in resolution and a lot of features for fixing freckles.
4) The main complaint is the overly sensitive startup procedure. Do it just right or it doesn't work, won't say why and just sits there. On the other hand, Do It Just Right and it may do the very same thing.
5) The documentation is helpful but poorly organized and vague. NOWHERE does it state a simple 5 step procedure for starting the device, bringing up the software and getting on with the scanning. That is THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL basic any manual should obviously provide. The booklet rambles from topic to topic throwing in a dire warning every few paragraphs and never offers a simple "Here's how you use it" sequence.
6) One of the problems with film scanners is LOW VOLUME AND POOR SHOPPING ACCESS. For most buyers, there is no place you can go and see the physical units nor see them demonstrated. Neither Circuit City nor Best Buy stores in MD stock them or demo them.
7) Overall impression: A great product that can do all you expect of it within specifications BUT an immature product that was not debugged and idiot-proofed before being thrown on the market. That is especially strange since there was a II and a III prior to this IV model. ... Read more

Features

• Keep all your important information--from appointments to addresses to notes--at your fingertips
• 8 MB of memory, bonus software, and a fast processor
• Play games on the go or read an eBook
• Synchronizes with Outlook
• What’s in the box: Handheld device; Palm Desktop software including Note Pad and Expense; Software Essentials CD with Handmark Mobile DB and PDA Money; pre-installed basic applications such as Address Book, Date Book, etc.

Reviews (50)

Waste of time & money!
Original Zire was a ground breaking product because of its low price. But a year later Palm is still trying to sell the same small screen with no backlight for same price?

Pro's,
1. Its price.
2. Has latest stable Palm OS version 5.
3. Looks very good, doesn't feel cheap (so you can gift it).
4. Comes with rechargeable battery and standard USB cable.
5. Fast ARM processor, good stylus and infrared port.

Con's,
1. Still no backlight on screen (uesless in dark or medium light).
2. Screen is B&W and only 160x160 pixels, again the worst you will find on a 2003 handheld.
3. No mp3, mpeg, jpeg support. Without the multimedia features the gift receiver doesn't get much excited.
4. No expansion slot and only 8MB memory.
5. 90 day warranty.
6. Processor & OS are new but rest of hardware is pathetic, new OS is not put to any use.

With Tungsten E selling for well below 199 mark, I would strongly recommend getting T|E instead of Zire 21. You will get so much for a few more $$. Or you might as well get original Zire for half the cost. Zire 21 is good only as a gift to your mother-in-law, not recommended for personal use.

Great option for the price
I've been wanting to switch over to a PDA for last couple months basically to get rid of the bulk & the hassle of carrying around a paper planner. When this product was released I knew it was exactly what I needed, the original Zire lacked the memory I wanted to be able to install some 3rd party software, such as games. With this new model I have more than enough room for a few games to play in between classes as well as the standard datebook & address software.

I basically use my Zire 21 to keep track of appointments, homework, and telephone numbers, but the expense software included seems like a great program if you are interested in keeping track of that information on your Palm.

Overall this is perfect for organizing my sometimes hectic college career and I expect once I graduate it will be just as helpful in keeping my organinzed and on time.

The only feature I think would be a nice addition would be a backlight. The screen is easy to view in normal and even some low light, but in the dark is useless. A backlight would ensure it would be viewable at all times. I primarily use mine during the day in light conditions though, so this isn't really a problem, but I can see some people using a backlight frequently.

sort of satisfied
Well I have read the entire first page of reviews and while reading them, I found out that what the people were saying was true. For me it has been a good pda and hasnt had the problem of resetting near cell phones. To tell you the truth, at this very moment it is 6 inches away from one right now and its still working fine. So for whoever had this problem, I think its just bad luck. But in the past I have had to reset it myself because it would freeze up when I put certain games on it. So overall I think it was good and I didn't like the fact that there was no backlight. So if you are a first time pda user, you should get it.

get what you pay for
I actually thought it would have more options then it did. There is nothing to do with finances on the zire 21. It has never reset itself on me and really keeps a charge for a long time. I have had mine for a few months. Hard to see in dim light. Once again, lack of options. If you want a daily planner, mini organizer, and somewhere to keep phone numbers, and email addresses it is great.

The Zire 21 resets when placed near your cell phone !
This is outrageous - my Zire 21 was frequently doing spontaneous hard resets, losing all the data. I finally figured out why - it can't be kept near a cell phone. Huh ???? What do they think we're all carrying around with us all the time ? Someone should file a class action lawsuit and make them do a recall on all these units ... Meanwhile, don't buy one unless you want to be constantly backing up your data, since Palm is apparently doing nothing about this. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The versatile wireless Ethernet bridge from Linksys can make any wired Ethernet-equipped device a part of your wireless network. At home, use the wireless Ethernet bridge to connect game consoles, set-top boxes, or computers to your wireless network to share your high-speed network connection. In the office, convert your Ethernet-wired printer, scanner, camera, notebook, or desktop into a wireless networked device.

It's completely driver-free, so it works on any platform and with any operating system. Because there are no drivers to load, setup is a snap--just plug it into your device and configure the network settings through your Web browser.

You can also use the Linksys wireless Ethernet bridge as a kind of "cableless cable" to connect remote areas together. Maybe the Shipping department is all the way across the warehouse from Receiving. Or maybe you want to set up a home office in your detached garage. With a wireless Ethernet bridge in the garage and another one (or a wireless access point) in the house, you're connected--without the hassle of cabling. ... Read more

Features

• Converts wired-Ethernet devices to wireless network connectivity
• Works without drivers on Macintosh, Windows, PlayStation2, Xbox, Linux, network printers--anything with an Ethernet port
• Provides wireless, cable-free bridging between remote workgroups
• Easily configurable through your Web browser
• Capable of up to 128-Bit WEP encryption

Reviews (108)

Not as good as other linksys products...
The WET11 is not the same quality and performance I have come to expect from Linksys after owning a few of their other products (one wireless AP router/switch, and one wired router/switch).

First if all, the status LEDs are all the same color, and power up or reset does not affect their state unless you are already connected up to a WAN and/or LAN. In other words, it acts like it is DOA on power up - only the PWR led comes on.

Second, it appears that you MUST use the included "SETUP" disk to initially access the WET11. The WET11, by default, has a static private IP of 192.168.1.225. Therefore, I expected to be able to bypass the setup up disk and access the WET11's html config menu directly through my web browser, but could not until after I had run the setup wizard.

Third, the WET11 is not compatible with all NICs. My computer has an Orange Micro 10/100 Ethernet NIC, and the WET11 NEVER was able to work with it. (LAN LED never lit, and setup wizard could never detect the WET11; yes the cross-over select switch was in the X position). The same orange micro NIC works with both the Linksys AP, my Linksys Router/Switch, and my Motorola and RCA Cable modems, so it is obviously a compatibility issue with the WET11 and not the NIC.

Fourth, the latest firmware version 1.4.3 does not have any RSSI or link quality status as the older (1.3.2) did. Why doesn't Linksys include generic link test utilities and basic signal quality and strength status meters like the ones included in CISCO 802.11 products? It seems that Linksys is afraid to let the user see this info as it may shed light on the poor performance of this product:-(

Fifth, the cost of the WET11 is more than their BEFW11S4 Wireless AP router/switch. WHY? The BEFW11S4 has way more functionality, quality, and can be configured to act like a wireless bridge anyways, with a little effort.

In summary, if you have a computer that has a non-orange micro NIC (an any other non-compatible NIC), and you use the setup disk and ignore the Status LEDS, and do not upgrade the firmware, then the WET11 may be right for you.

Very pleased with the WET11
After reading the specs on the Linksys WET11 and downloading the user manual from their website, I decided to purchase a unit. I am very pleased with this product and it works as I had expected.

Setting it up was a breeze. The antenna is screwed on to the right side of the unit (which is surprisingly small). Plug in the power supply. I then hooked it up to a PC laptop with the supplied RJ45 cable and ran the setup program. I have an SMC Barricade 7004AWBR router with a built in wireless access point. The WET11 was configured to use the same SSID and channel as the SMC and then set to DHCP. All done.

The unit can then be connected to your ethernet device in one of two ways. One is directly to your desktop or laptop, for example. The other is to hook it up to a hub or switch and from there wire it up to one or more desktops or even laptops. There is a switch on the unit to select which mode will be used. While I do have a wireless card for the laptop, it's nice to have the flexibility of going wired for desktops.

The icing on the cake is that I now have wireless connectivity for my Mac Beige G3. I've been looking for a solution and the WET11 solves it. Before, I had to run a long RJ45 cable to it from the router. Now I can connect it to the WET11 through either of the two options mentioned and get on the web as before, except it's now wireless. One tip - set the Mac to a manual IP address. For some reason, setting the Mac for DHCP does not work. For me a very minor issue.

I have not seen any dropped connections for the few days I've had it and it sure runs cool. All in all, it has met my expectations, perhaps more so with the Mac. For the money, I see no comparable product out there. Check it out.

When a Linksys product doesn't work, you are out of luck
I bought a wireless G router from Linksys in October, and still have not gotten it to work. The unit did not come with an installation CD (which was listed on the package), and I was told "You can buy one if you want". Countless emails, faxes, calls, and letters to both tech support and corporate, have gotten me nowhere. "We will send you the CD immediately". Never happens. "We are so sorry, and will make this right". Never happens. When I asked for an RMA, I was told "I think an RMA has something to do with returning the product". I will never EVER buy a Linksys product again.

Does the job
I bought a WET11v2 with 2.08 firmware. I cannot speak for the WET11v1, but v2 has been good to me. Configured it in 15 minutes and it has worked great since. The WET11 is usually sold for slightly more than Netgear's competing ME101, but that extra $10 buys you a huge advantage: a fully functional working product. With the ME101, you save a few dollars and get a neutered Yugo. If you need a 802.11b bridge, the WET11 is the best choice.

Linksys - Born to break
My first experience with Linksys was a router. It allowed me to hook up my non-ethernet stuff by USB, and share my cable modem around my home office. It was simple to set up and worked great for 4 weeks until it gradually began to fail. First the USB port went dead, then if I had more than two PCs connected, it would slow on ethernet file transfers from 10mbps to dialup speeds. Then it died for good.

I swore to myself never again, but then along comes this bridge... easy to configure, good price... I was a fool.

Currently my bridge can be relied upon to drop them every 5-15 minutes when I'm trying to do something important (like FTP my new web site to the remote server). Used to be that the dropouts were few and far between, and only under heavy use. But just as my other Linksys product gradually went bad, this one's dropouts are growing more and more frequent.

I researched it on the net, read how flashing new firmware stopped the dropouts. I upgraded the firmware, did everything I could, and for a week it seemed to be doing great. And now it's worse than ever. I'm constantly having to reboot the unit. It's driving me bonkers.

I specifically warn people away from this product. If you get one that performs fine in the beginning, big deal. They all do. If you have decent performance six months later, you're an anomaly. In my experience, Linksys is born to break and you'd be better off saving yourself the aggravation by buying a more reliable brand. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

HP's Q2612A Ultraprecise print cartridge offers an easy to replace design, specifically for use with HP's LaserJet 1010 series (1010, 1012, and 1015 model printers). Each cartridge will yield approximately 2000 pages at 5% coverage. ... Read more

Features

• Compatible with HP LaserJet 1010, 1012, and 1015 printers
• Crisp, black print results
• Easy to install cartridge design
• 2,000-age yield at 5% coverage
• A quality HP product

Amazon.com Product Description

Add wireless freedom, stylish looks, and one-touch features to your desktop with the Wireless Optical Desktop Pro keyboard and mouse combination. This desktop package features customizable keys, optical mouse technology, and a comfortable, ergonomic design. The Wireless MultiMedia keyboard's split, gently sloped shape encourages a natural hand, wrist, and forearm position for maximum comfort. Also, your digital media activities are within easy reach--start, play, and navigate music and video clips with the touch of a button. Customizable hot keys let you quickly start Messenger, Mail, Internet, and Calculator programs. And get one-touch access to files stored in the My Documents, My Pictures, and My Music folders in Windows. Perform common tasks right from your keyboard--press a button to open, close, and save documents, send and forward e-mails, put the computer to sleep, log off, and more. Press the F LOCK key to toggle between standard and enhanced function key commands.

The mouse's wider, clear scroll wheel allows you to comfortably move through documents and Web pages quickly without clicking the scroll bar. Accelerated scrolling reacts to how quickly you roll the wheel, saving you time and effort. And the optical sensor replaces your mouse ball, for accuracy and precision--no mouse pad needed. It's ambidextrous, too--whether you control it with your right or left hand, the wireless optical mouse is shaped for comfort.

Both the keyboard and mouse work within six feet of the included receiver, even if your computer is out of sight. The pair comes with a three-year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Wireless keyboard and mouse work within 6 feet of the receiver
• Comfortable, ergonomic split keyboard design encourages natural typing position
• Wireless Optical Mouse is shaped for comfort for right- or left-handed use
• Windows and Macintosh compatible
• Three-year warranty

Reviews (33)

Microsoft Wirless Optical Desktop Pro Set
Awesome set!!! I have had a Microsoft Natural keyboard for years, and loved it. When I saw they came out with a wireless desk top version I was delighted. And in colors that match todays computers. It was extremely easy to install and set up. I love the fact that the receiver doesn't have to even be on my desk. I also love the fact that there are no wires getting in the way of my work space. The ergonomic design is terrific. If you have had microsofts previous natural keyboards you're gonna love this set. The features are basically the same. A few minor changes have been made to the keyboard, but nothing big. The keyboard and mouse function wonderfully within a six foot range. Which is more than adaquate. Microsoft warrants the set for five years too. That is a fabulous warranty. (Be sure and save your receipts, make an extra copy so you don't lose it should you need to obtain service.) The set takes 2 AA batteries for the Keyboard, and 2 for the mouse. The batteries are said to last up to six months, but for those of us that are always on the computer we'll have to change them more frequently. If you find your set isn't fuctioning properly follow their reconnecting instructions first, try a different channel(all this is described in the manual), if none of those work, it's most likely your batteries. They take regular AA batteries like Energizer or Duracell Ultra. So they are fairly cheap. If your looking for a great wireless keyboard & mouse set this is it! It's so simple to use, try it. I sure enjoy mine.**** Please Note; I don't have the Pro 2 I have the Microsoft Wireless Optical Pro(looks identical with the exception of the mouse, mine is silver on top).

Lot of issues...
What I don't like:
#1
Sometimes it seemed to register me pressing a key longer than I actually has, sparadic and usually on the number pad.
#2
Function Lock: one of the dumbest things I've seen.
#3
Mouse was too inaccurate. Might not be an issue for people who don't adjust sensitivity on mouse. I'm one of those people who crank it way up and demand extreme responsiveness and accuracy. If you need this as well this product is probably not for you.
#4
Non-standard layout of those keys between main board and numberpad. I hate that.
#5
All those big buttons and shortcuts you put on top of your "high-end" keyboards... Maybe someone wants them but I don't. Don't make a wireless keyboard so huge I don't want to move around with it....

What I like:
#1
Pretty quiet keys overall.
#2
New scroll wheel is nice. Hope to see this in future products. Smooth and responds faster than old tick tick tick.
#3
Broke Function keys into 4 groupings of 3 vs. 3 groupings of 4. Thank you! Once I got used to it I was more accurate/faster at finding my functions and not looking.

Wow, what a product!!
This product was wonderful. I had an natural keyborad and intellimouse explorer 3.0. The mouse was bad and need to be replaced. I came across this item at Best Buy and they were asking too much for it. I found it here and it was cheap and exactly what I wanted. I really didn't know what to expect of the product before I purchased it. Once I got it, the product was great. The thing was easy to set up. I could place the receive any where on my desk, below my desk and just about everywhere else the cord could reach and still has perfect reception for the mouse. The keyboard is great, just like the old natural keyboard, however it is lighter and feels a bit cheaper than the old one. The keyboard has little texture on it and it is transparent black. The functions on it were great. The mouse takes a while to get use to because it is higher than the old mouse which I had been using for a long time. I got use it in 4 days. I would recommend this product to anyone who is looking for a great combo.

Mouse keys are not programmable
The keyboard and mouse are overall quite nice but the mouse has one glaring flaw - the two side buttons and the wheel are not truly programmable and customizable as is noted on Amazon's and Microsoft's sites. You are only given a limited choice of commands that they will execute.

As many bugs as new 'useful' keys
I'm on my second try of this product. Amazon's great customer services change the other because 5 or 6 keys was wrong, my numerical pad doen't works, when I press 7 1 6 9 or 3, the keyboards sends tons of diferent orders, even to send my computer to stanBy.

The second keyboard was best, but it still have to many bugs, my left hand CTRL, SHIFT, and ALT keys doesn't respond sometimes, and others respond but doesn't hold the signal to make multiple selections.

Final words... Try later when the bugs are corrected. now try another manufacturer ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Zen Micro digital music player from Creative Labs packs an incredible 5 GB of storage capacity into a shell small enough to sit comfortably in your jeans pocket. It also rides nicely in your hand, with a palm-fitting profile and thumb-friendly front-panel controls. It's a bit shorter than an Apple iPod Mini, yet its rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 12 hours of continuous playback--50 percent more than iPod Mini's. The Zen Micro is compatible note merely with MP3s and WAV files, but with WMA as well. Toss in USB 2.0 connectivity and you're looking at one spiffy portable music player.

But playing isn't all the Zen Micro does. You can use it to receive FM radio (with 32 station presets to keep your favorites at the ready), and to record, either from the radio or from live sources such as dictation or lectures using the built-in condenser microphone.

Trimmed in a luminescent blue glow and with easily visible backlit buttons, this stylish pink player holds up to 1,250 songs (83 hours) at 128 kbps or 2,500 songs (166 hours) at lower-fidelity 64 kbps (MP3/WMA)--that's a solid week's worth of music listening, never playing the same song twice. Compatibility with Microsoft's WMA compressed-audio format grants access to over 2 million downloadable songs offered promotionally or for sale online.

Perhaps the Zen Micro's coolest attribute is its DJ feature, which will shuffle not only all the songs you've loaded or all the songs on a given album, but, at your discretion, only the tracks you listen to most or only the ones you rarely hear, taking the work out of selecting your favorites or hunting out all the music you're still getting to know.

Zen Micro's rechargeable battery is easy to replace.

For navigation, the device features a vertical, linear touchpad designed to make searching through songs or playlists easy, quick, and fun. The unit's blue, 160 x 104-pixel, electroluminescent LCD shows key functions and song details at a glance, and you can even customize the main menu to keep right at your fingertips the features that matter most to you.

Another of the Zen Micro's handy features is its personal organizer. You'll never forget an important anniversary with the onboard calendar, and it also includes a to-do list and a contacts list, all of which sync seamlessly with Microsoft Outlook (Outlook thus required for use of these features). In addition, the device offers a sleep timer and alarm so you can drift off to sleep to the strains of one playlist and wake to a completely different one.

The Zen Micro's removable battery is easy to swap with another fully charged battery (additional batteries sold separately), extending your listening by a half-day per swap.

What's in the Box
The Zen Micro player, stereo earbud headphones, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, an AC/DC power adapter, a USB 2.0 cable, a belt clip, a stand, a stylish cloth pouch, an installation CD, a quick-start guide, and Creative MediaSource software. ... Read more

Features

• Micro-sized 5 GB digital-music player stores up to 1,250 songs at 128 kbpsor 2,500 songs at 64 kbps (MP3/WMA)
• Vertical touch pad simplifies navigation; body is curved to fit your hand
• FM radio with 32 station presets for listening and recording; 10-hour voice recording through built-in microphone
• 12 hours continuous playtime using the supplied rechargeable lithium-ion battery; extend your listening using multiple batteries (sold separately)
• Includes headphones, a belt clip, a stand, and an AC/DC power adapter

Features

• Up to 4,800 x 1,200 optimized dpi color, 1,200 x 1,200 black, or 8-ink color
• Up to 20 ppm black and color speed, 4-by-6 photo as fast as 27 seconds
• 2.5-inch LCD to rotate, crop, zoom, and remove red-eye before printing
• Frame-by-frame video printing; slots for digital-camera memory cards
• USB, Ethernet, and PictBridge interfaces; PC and Mac compatible

Features

• 128 MB of memory for over 2 hours of MP3 or 4 hours of WMA music
• Secure Digital card/MMC expansion slot provides up to 512 MB of additional memory
• 5-band adjustable equalizer with pre-sets
• 18-hours of continuous playback with one AAA battery
• Compatible with computers with USB 1.1 ports running Windows 98 SE, 2000, ME, XP, Mac OS X

Reviews (149)

pretty cool
I'm not an expert on electronics but this is the 2nd mp3 player I've owned. I chose to buy this mp3 player for work inside a warehouse handling package and for use at school, walking around. Overall, I'd say its a pretty good player but there are some questions about the durability and lifespan of it.

Pros:
-cheap price compared to other mp3 players of the same memory
-expandable memory
-durable design...supposedly waterproof (not anxious to test that claim tho)
-acceptable yellow color and appearance
-nice joystick function (in my opinion anyway)
-GOOD wrap around ear phones (just wanted the basics)
-very nice looking and durable belt clip (never used armband)

Cons:
-battery life (1 AAA is only 8 hrs for me...equals only about 2 days of work and campus use, but then again I'm going to buy rechargeables anyway)
-software use (isn't as easy to use as it could be, kinda confusing sometimes)
-*** Once had a problem with the player when it only played 39 songs when I actually had 50 or so on it, worrisome error***
-can only create playlist on software (quite common tho)
-*** list of songs is always alphabetized, NOT BY WHAT ORDER THEY ARE SET UP IN ***VERY ANNOYING***

In spite of these cons tho, I'm happy with my purchase and would buy them as gifts to other sporty and gymgoing friends.

Great workout player, but cludgy for file transfers
I've used this Rio Cali 256 for a few months now, and it plays awesome! I added a 512MB SD card and can fit 13 hours of MP3 music and play it all on 1 battery! The Music Manager application is good for categorizing and transfers, but I used another application to rip my CD collection. You have to use the Rio Taxi if you want to transfer data files, it does not show up in Windows explorer as a drive letter. Taxi is a very tempermental application. When trying to transfer large files (over 8MB) via drag and drop it crashes. It seems to work when right-clicking the large file and choosing Save Item As, then picking the folder where you want to copy it to. Really large files (over 100MB) don't seem to copy at all; the application times out. Can't understand how I copied a 165MB file to the Rio but now can't copy it off the Rio? Copying files to the Rio gave me no problem, just transferring files back to the PC. Copy and Paste doesn't work at all. Since I use this 99% of the time for working out and listening to MP3's, I give it a 3 out of 5. You're better off with a USB jump drive or something similar if you want a small product to transfer files.

Music 5 of 5
File Tranfers 1 of 5

Great player for the gym
This MP3 player is great for the money...it's durable, sounds great (radio reception not great - but why would you buy an mp3 player for radio reception?) Head phones sound good but are uncomfortable. My girlfriend borrows mine all the time - so this holiday she will be getting one from me!

junk junk junk
Thank god that I purchased the 2 year waranty. I have had this MP3 player for a few months and I was impressed at first even if the radio reception stinks. However, recently the mazimum download will be 19 songs, because of "non-existent" errors. The screen has frozen with the word Upgrader on it, and ive tried to upgrade it but it is still frozen on the screen. I am very dissapointed with the Rio Cali and would not reccomend it.

Great Versitile MP3 Player!
I am so impressed with the Cali that I bought for my husband that I'm going out to get one for myself! I love the easy-to-use software! I found that you can easily download a MP3 upgrade (for FREE!) in order to RIP songs into MP3 format as well as WMA, FLAC, and OGG! It's lightweight, has an FM Tuner, an expansion slot for additional storage space, and is designed for an active lifestyle. What more do you need? I too had a little trouble at first with the ear buds, but quickly got used to them. When in use, they drown out nearly everything else going on. I love it! I stumbled across this one and have since looked at what else is out there. This is the MP3 player for me! ... Read more

Features

• ARM processor powered by Palm OS 5
• Integrated Que technology, with GARMIN GPS and mapping software
• Speaker for voice-guidance commands, MP3 player, and message playback
• Voice recorder for making memos, quick notes, and messages on the fly
• What's in the box: iQue 3600, protective display cover, metal stylus, USB HotSync cradle, A/C power/charging adapter, quick start guide, CD-ROM with manual, choice of MapSource configuration, and automobile navigational system

Reviews (2)

Impressed
If you are looking for an excellent palm-pilot with a GPS add-on, this is probably not for you. It is not designed to be an outstanding palm. If you are looking for a GPS based nagivational aide with some palm capabilities, then this is excellent.

The time to acquire satelites varies quite dramatically, but it does. I have even managed to track my location whiles flying. The location and airspeed were dead on, but the elevation of 50 ft seemed to be a bit low, considering that we were at 29,000 ft.

Quick to re-calculate if you get off route. It has been accurate, with 1 exception. In Boulder Colorade (despite the basemap and detailed map being loaded, it couldn't find all the streets, and had me displayed in the middle of a lake once.

All in all I am very satisfied with this product.

Great navigation PDA, but stopped working in first month...
As a GPS junkie, I appreciate just how slick this navigation PDA is. The detailed City Select mapsets that come with the PDA are very detailed, and give you voice guided turn-by-turn directions anywhere you want to go. Add a SD memory card and you have more than enough memory to hold all the maps you need plus MP3's and other Palm applications as well. The only drawback, and it's a biggie, is that after 3 weeks my IQUE 3600 has completely stopped working. Garmin has asked me to mail it back to them (at my expense) to be repaired (at their expense). Maybe it's just a bit of bad luck with my particular unit. If navigation was all this unit did it would be worth the money (it costs 1/3 of similar non-portable in dash vehicle nav systems with similar capabilities), but it is also a great PDA and MP3 player as well. If it continues working after Garmin fixes it, I wouldn't hesitate to reccommend it to anyone. ... Read more

Features

• Photo-quality prints, scans, and copies; slim, compact all-in-one
• Up to 17 ppm print speed; up to 4,800 x 1,200 optimized dpi color resolution
• 36-bit color scan depth, 600 dpi optical resolution
• Up to 17 cpm, 50% to 400% copy enlargement/reduction
• USB and PictBridge interfaces; PC and Mac compatible

Reviews (3)

Very Satisfied
I just recently purchased the HP PSC 1315 from another retailer. It was on sale at a reasonable price. The installation was difficult at first because I also just recently bought a new computer which was already HP Printer-ready which caused the installation CD to not allow the software to be completed. I called Technical Support and talked with a very nice man in India who walked me through the entire process, staying on the line with me until everything was complete, including the printer working properly. It turned out that I needed to eliminate a couple of things on the computer that were preventing the software from being installed. I am very happy with my 1315--it's really superfast with printing the pages (in black ink)! HP could lower the price of the ink cartridges though. I didn't realize how expensive they are just for one cartridge!!

Software shut computer down
I bought my HP PSC 1315 at COSTCO without researching. It worked nicely when first installed on my Athlon processor with Windows XP home. The next time I turned on the computer the installed HP software immediately kicked my computer into restart. Very frustrating was the blue screen error message that remained up only long enough for an idiot savant to read.

I have spent too much time on other computer equipment that didn't work and after a few quick checks decided that there must be a printer/scanner that will work without hassle and returned this one.

Look before you leap
Tried to hook up to a 3yr old Compaq Deskpro EN with windows 2000 professional [could not get program to fully load or configure] & I spent many hours on the phone to HP with NO luck at all.The scanner/copier lid had a lot of play & when I tried to copy a Birth certificate it cut off 1/4in on 3 sides & a 1/2in on the bottom. The only thing I was impressed with was the photo editing abilities. I returned the PSC 1315 for a refund & bought a Cannon MP 370. ... Read more

Features

• Adds an Xbox console to your high speed wireless network
• Wirelessly play on the Xbox Live service with anyone anywhere
• Internal and external antennae to maximize range and throughput
• Intuitive Xbox Dashboard interface
• Full compatibility with 802.11g and 802.11b Wi-Fi networks

Reviews (38)

This Thing is Ridiculous....
....Ridiculously easy to set up. Actually ,the XBOX system did most of the work for me. It detected and configured most of the network info itself from my existing 802.11g wireless network. The hardest thing was typing the 26 digit WEP code for my wireless network.I just followed the step-by-step instructions and was online within minutes. Piece of cake.
I was a little concerned about the signal strength with my Base Station being two rooms over , about 35 feet away with multiple electronic devices along the way, and no real line of sight, but my fears quickly disappeared when I checked my network speed on the XBOX and found it steady at 54 Mbps with a Very Good to Excellent signal.Fantastic.
Online gaming on the XBOX is phenomenal with the Microsoft Wireless-G Xbox Adapter.The game play is flawless. It's as if your playing with that person in your living room right next to you. There was no laggy or choppy gameplay, just really really smooth. I love this thing!!
Just take the time to read the instructions one step at a time and you'll be playing before you know it. I look forward to playing you on XBOX Live.

Wireless gameplay made easy
If you want wireless online gameplay on your XBox, and have an existing wireless 802.11-G or -B network, this little baby is the perfect ticket. As an avid gamer and a games retailer, I've seen my fair share of wireless networking problems, with few solutions offered that made sense. There are other wireless game adapters out there, but none of them perform as well as this one. Not only does it solve problems, it doesn't CREATE any! (A show of hands: How many of you have found the cure to be as bad as the problem when it comes to wireless networking?) This thing is simplicity itself when it comes to setup and orientation. Your XBox will take care of most of the setup process on its own. The Adapter has an auto-sensing feature that detects your existing network and then configures and aligns itself. Just follow the instructions and let your system take care of the rest.

How good is the signal strength? At home, it maintains a perfect signal, with no stalling or lagging, of 54 mbps across three rooms separated by two floors. At work, we moved one fifty feet away, with some large wired hubs and three solid walls in between. Still no lag or disruption. The adapter features both internal and external antennae that allow for extensive range and maximum signal strength. There's even an upgrade option that will allow for increased security. This adapter takes the worry and aggravation out of setting up wireless gameplay, leaving you more time for games...which is always good. Highly recommended.

works great with modded XBox
This works wonderfully right out of the box with a modded (evoX) XBox, linked to a Linksys WRT54G. I originally tried to use the Linksys Wireless Game Adapter, which really sucked and never worked. Took a chance on this thing, worried that it would not be configurable enough with the network. Piece of cake. And 30-50 dollars cheaper than the Game Adapter. It found the network just fine and can now transfer files back and forth from the XBox from both the wireless PC and the Mac on our network via FTP. Hate to say it, but a really nice experience from MS.

Awesome
This thing is great. It did not take long to set it up and when it was all hooked up it has not given me any problems. The connection is fast and I have not experienced any lag. This thing also works with playstation 2. I use it to play Socom 2 and it works great, just takes a little time to comfigure for the PS2, also works on my other computer. A great buy!!!!!!

Wow
I held off buying this for awhile and now that I have it I don't know what I was thinking. This is one amazing product that works to perfection with my wirless network at my house. I am in amazment at how easy it was to set up and I was online and playing in no time. If you have an Xbox there is no reason you should not have this product, wow. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The force-feedback technology of Logitech's WingMan Force 3D joystick allows you to feel the action, weapon recoils, and explosions of your games. The space-saving design takes up minimal room on your desktop. Features include a twist handle function and lock, seven programmable buttons, eight-way hat switch, high-precision throttle, and rapid-fire trigger. It is compatible with USB-equipped PC systems. ... Read more

Features

• 7 programmable buttons
• 8-way hat switch
• Rapid-fire trigger
• Stable, weighted base
• USB plug-and-play connection

Reviews (47)

Excellent joystick
The Logitech WingMan Force 3D is an excellent joystick from Logitech. It was very easy to set up, taking less than a minute. All you have to do is plug one plug into a USB port on the back of your computer, and plug another into a wall outlet, and you're good to go.

The calibration utility is quick and reliable, and the joystick properties window provides a few minutes of enjoyment, allowing you to sample different force feedback effects, such as gun shot, machine gun, explosion, chainsaw, bow and arrow, and car crash.

I was very pleased with how easy it was to control my car in Midtown Madness 2. I tried several different vehicles, each with its own minute differences in handling with the joystick. I was also very happy with the force feedback, rumbling when your car crashes, and softly vibrating as you drive over rough surfaces such as grass. In Freespace 2, I was able to pilot my ship with the greatest of ease, and take out Shivan forces like a knife through butter.

If you need a new joystick, or are just considering one, definitely head straight for the Logitech WingMan Force 3D. You'll be pleasantly surprised with all the features, especially high-quality force feedback, in such a cheap package.

Force Feedback is Spooky!
Usually, features of game controllers are intended to make games easier to play. Force Feedback effects, however, are there to give the player a hard time - make his life difficult by applying countering forces to aileron movement, and shaking like a jackhammer when you fire your machine guns.

My ol' faithful stick is a Saitek Cyborg 3d.. a very sturdy, non FF piece of kit with a good strong snap to center. I fancied a change of scene, without losing much money, and the Wingman Force 3d seemed to fit the bill. Fortunately, my fears of RSI and sprained wrists were allayed when, whilst using the test program during installation, I found out that the forces the stick can generate were actually fairly moderate. Whilst its certainly strong enough to give you a good feedback, its no arm wrestler.

After being used to the Saitek, the 'slack' feel of the un-forced Wingman was a bit of a shock. The default 'return to center' forces dont work anywhere near as well as a good old fashioned spring, especially near the center point, where the motors seem to have less leverage. The result is that the joystick doesn't always snap to center too well. Its fairly easy to 'feel' the center of the joystick whilst playing though, so once your used to it, you actually feel the benefit of a much lighter stickload.

My main critisism of the Force effects is that they tend to be a little bit 'clunky' in feel.. the action is perhaps not as smooth as a sprung stick. This is something of a feature of FF joysticks though.. they can never compete with the 'smoothness' of a mechanical spring. Its something you soon get fairly used to, and in fact tend to forget about once your having fun wrestling the stick forces around.

So far, I've tested the stick with Edge of Chaos, Starlancer, Il2 Sturmovik, CFS3 and the Freespace2 game that was packaged with the stick (not the retail version I might add). Once a few settings are tweaked, the stick works well with the 'space' sim games, where there is little need for proper force feedback until you fire your guns or crash into something. It certainly adds to the excitement and immersion to 'feel' when something explodes nearby. Sturmovik also performed well, with stalls and takeoffs/landings feeling very realistic and firing cannons gets very satisfying indeed. CFS3 however, has issues; there seems to be a half second delay in the feedback forces, so if you let go of the stick after a roll it will oscillate indefinately hard left and hard right.. not good for the stick OR your virtual airplane. Being a generally buggy, resource hungry peice of software, CFS3 is probably at fault here though, not the Wingman.

Setting up the stick was painless, quick and easy. The aforementioned test program is an excellent idea too. Ive not used the programming software yet, but I tend to stick with the default in-game setup anyway (I prefer to take the programming software off the task bar for a few extra fps). There aren't as many buttons on the WMF3D as many joysticks.. but theres all you need for most flight sims. The throttle is OK too, but doesn't really offer as fine a control as the one on the Saitek, so formation flying/inflight refuelling might cause some problems.

I worry about durability and longevity.. its not as well made as my Saitek, but if it lasts 12 months it will probably have been worth it.

To summarize, if you want force-feedback at a resonable price.. the WingMan Force is a good solution. Its pretty obvious though that with current technology Force Feedback comes at a cost in precision. I'll certainly be keeping my old Saitek stick nearby for playing non-Force games, but where its available FF is such great fun I'll certainly use the Wingman.

Questionable build quality, but the price is right...
A few years back you'd pay $150 for a force feedback joystick. Those were the days when serious flight simmers paid top dollar for the best quality they could get. Unfortunately, those days are gone, and force feedback joysticks (along with quality joysticks in general) are fewer in number than ever, and not as good as they used to be. Now that MS has stopped making Sidewinder products, and Logitech replaced their older (and better) Wingman Force stick with this one, there's not a lot of choice left if you want force feedback. On the positive side, the price is now much lower than it used to be.

I'm on my second one of these sticks... the first one I got from Amazon had a defective motor in it. Other than that, the initial feel of this stick is actually pretty good - better than I expected, based on the other reviews - and if I hadn't gotten a defective unit I'd probably give it a higher score. But taken with some of the other problems I've read about here, I have to think there are probably some real quality control issues with this stick. I can say definitively that this model is not nearly as solid as either MS's last force feedback stick or Logitech's previous model. But both of those sticks were built like tanks. At least the buttons all feel really nice on the Force 3D; solid but clicky and springy, and with a nice throttle with the perfect amount of resistance. The hat switch works well too - much better than my old Sidewinder Precision Pro (and it's concave now, just to update what an earlier reviewer said about previous revisions).

As for the force feedback itself, it's not the best but it's not bad either. If you're a flight simmer you will probably appreciate having force feedback - this is not really a stick that's intended for other types of games. It's a flight stick, and it does add a lot to the realism of flight sims to be able to feel things like ground bumps and aerodynamic forces on your airplanes (some sims even let you feel things like turbulence). The force effects by default are strong enough, but you can make them stronger if you want to (some people have complained that the effects feel weak, but you can really crank them up with Logitech's included utility). It can be surprisingly forceful given how light the stick is. That said, the motors do feel like they're straining if you really crank it up.

Centering is always an issue with force feedback sticks because they rely on the motors for centering rather than springs. Some people prefer a standard stick for this reason. Unlike some older force feedback sticks that use a combination of cables and motors for centering and other non-force effects, this stick seems to use only motors, so the centering doesn't feel very smooth - it feels very digital, like the motors have a certain number of levels (which feel like detents) where they will allow the stick to rest. It's hard to explain, but the result is if you push the stick in one direction, it's almost like it "clicks" as it goes through the various levels of resistance from the motors. This is constant and there's no way around it; you just have to get used to it. It's not that hard, but it's definitely a different feel from an analog stick that uses cables and springs for centering.

Some have complained about stick sensitivity with this model; I haven't had a problem in Flight Simulator 2004, which is all I've used it for. Even with the loose "dead spot" when centered, if you just take the stick sensitivity down a couple notches in the game settings it's absolutely fine. The centering right in the middle is definitely a bit loose but it doesn't seem to really matter much, and it's a common issue with most force feedback joysticks.

Overall, I'm glad I purchased mine, but I would probably have rather paid more for a better stick. I feel this is priced about what it's worth. Whether you want force feedback or not is a question in itself; if you're not sure, this is a good stick to test out, being as cheap as it is.

Decent with practise
I've had this stick for nearly 9 mos, and used it very little at first, preferring my non-ff logitech stick because this one seemed too out of control. After getting bored with a certain game, I took up this stick as a challenge, and am pleased with the results.

The FF is ok, nothing special, but once you have it set up with your comp and your game (this took quite a while and a lot of experimentation), I won't go back to non-ff. I actually get a feel for when my plane will stall, which is so necessary in flight sim games (been playing il2 FB). The on-stick throttle is pretty good and is not loose.

My biggest problem with this product is that the center spring doesn't really center, and seems to be in the ++ section a bit (upper right), which sometimes causes my plane to roll or pitch forward.

All in all, ok stick for the money. FF is great, but I'll be heading toward a better, more expensive stick after this.

a dissapointed customer
i bought this joystick a while ago and never used it much. at first i strictly used it for racing games so i never knew that it was broken. when i push foward it only regesters a little bit and when i put it back to its original position it thinks im pushing down and messes up my gameplay. it has no nutrel position, it dosent spring back to the right position and leans to the bottom. every time i plug in the FF it starts to violently shake foward and back, even during gameplay, but without it the nutrel position is even more indefinite. as for the stick itself, the palm rest on it tends to make you shift the weight of your hand to the right and taking the stick along with it.

the problems with the FF and the controls might have been because of damage during shipping or someting like that, but it could happen to you. anyway, im not happy with this design, get a sidewinder. ... Read more

Features

• Up to 108 Mbps to your notebook PC with Super G technology (when used with the WGT624 router)
• 802.11g standard compliance; interoperable with existing 802.11b and 802.11g networks
• Setup is quick and easy with Netgear's Smart Wizard install assistant
• 128-bit WEP encryption, upgradeable to Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)
• Compatible with Windows XP Home, XP Professional, 2000, Me, 98SE, and 98

Reviews (14)

Excellent card for the novice or intermediate user.
I purchased my Netgear card at Fry's electronics for $49.00 (a real steal)in mid December 2003 and have been happy with its performance. I was unable to connect to a wirless router in my house. After calling tech support, I realized the fault was my own. I did not have the profile or proper WEP key enabled. Since then it has worked perfectly. It has never lost or dropped my connection even with a weaker signal of about 45%. Anything below that puts you in the 5.5 Mbps to 1Mbps and can be unrealiable. The user interface config utility is very easy to use. You can scan for availble access points and display type, signal strength, security, and address. I love this thing. I've had poor experience with D-link. Fed my old one to the dog. Netgear rocks! Enough said

Works as Advertised!
At least when paired with the Netgear WGT624 WAP/Router this card does indeed have a significant farther range than for instance the DLINK 614+ was was currently using. I can go from one corner of the house downstairs to a bedroom at the opposite corner of the house upstairs, on a waterbed at almost full speed (this gave the DLINK some trouble).

It also comes with a nifty utility that does a better job than Windows with settings and statistics (like actual network throughput).

One minor issue may be with how hot this card gets which is always a concern with a laptop. To the cards credit there are settings for Power Save and Transmit Power which may help.

It works great
I dont want to repeat all the good things said about this product. I have always been a netgear fan, because they make solid network equipment. This is my first netgear wireless equipment, and it works great just like other netgear products.

One thing to remember though...you need to download and install the new driver in order to take advantage of the new WPA firewall security feature.

Awesome speed, range, and features.
This card is amazing. It works with 802.11b and 802.11g networks up to 108 mb/sec which is speeeedy fasst. The range is like three times as good as my old 802.11b network, and it is at least ten times as fast. It is easy to install and configure, and it looks nice. I have found no flaws. So buy it now.

Great 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card
My entire wireless network is now made up of Netgear components and this card works great just like the rest of them.
The main feature I like about the card is its ability to operate at 108 Mbps with my WGT634U router (in 108 Auto mode) while still allowing my other notebooks to operate at their 54 Mbps maximum.
The supplied software is just as great as the version that came with my Netgear WAG511 card. So setup and security was a snap.
I am using the card primarily on a KDS laptop running Windows Me (I know) which is a small wonder in its own right. It runs great without any problems or blue screens (knock wood).
From time to time, I use the card in my Dell Inspiron 8100 running Windows XP Professional. I have to interchange it with a Xircom NIC/Modem card I'm using though but still no major issues in doing so.
I originally got the WAG511 card because of its dual band a/b/g capibilities but it only achieved 108 with my router in 108 only mode which would not allow my other 54 cards to function. Hopefully, Netgear will release a new driver for 108 auto support like that of this WG511T card. ... Read more

Features

• No cord, no clutter, no hassle: cordless freedom, optical precision
• Comfortable, right-handed shape with a large, finger-controlled trackball
• Advanced buttons for easy navigation, plus a scroll wheel
• Smart power management keeps battery working for months
• Digital radio technology requires no line-of-sight; patented optical technology maintains smooth tracking and superior precision

Reviews (29)

Simply a menu feature, orientation can be set E/W or N/S.
...Orientation is a user setting, you can change it from East/West to North/South in the "mouse" menu. Trackballs are far superior to the clumsy mouse. If you stop and think about the finger, hand , arm, and shoulder movements required to "control" a mouse, not to mention the desk space it requires to operate, you can begin to see the simple genius of the trackball. I say "control" because a mouse controls you, you don't control it! You're the devil if you can ;) You can sit comfortably with your trackball in your lap if you like and easily navigate the web and your arm remains motionless. There is also much less fatigue when using a trackball, espicially one that you use the fingers to control the marble instead of the thumb. I am a long time pc user, since the Intel 8086 was the processor to buy (that was before the 80286, 80386, 80486, Pentium and Windows,) so you can trust my judgement is an informed one. Granted, if you are used to a mouse, trackballs can be challenging to master for the first day or two, but the rewards far outlast the first awkward attempts. You will be forever a master and "convert" like me. I snicker when I sit at a computer and have to use a mouse! What neophytes, MAN (or woman)get a trackball! It is especially good for the elderly folks who want to use a computer but can't seem to get the hang of a mouse, they CAN quickly get the hang of a trackball, same with young children. The "fingered" ball as opposed to the "thumbed" ball is an especially comfortable device to use. My personal favorite is the Logitec FX, very ergonomical design. Take a giant step up the computer power user ladder, trade your mouse for a trackball and do have somebody show you the control panel or menu settings for your mouse, even if you don't get a trackball.

Logitech Does It Again!
I've used Logitech mice before and this one tops all of the ones made by Logitech. I've read many reviews before purchasing this and read some of the drawbacks to this mouse and some advantages to this mouse. Logitech outperformed itself once again, with amazing features, support, and performance.

Disadvantages:
1. The styling of the mouse could have been better designed. It takes a little getting used to using the trackball with fingers other than your thumb.
2. Logitech erred in the device drivers. I repeat, please do not install the drivers shipped with the package. Go to Logitech.com/support and download the 9.75.0 verson and install it, not the 9.60.0 version as it will damage your compatibility with other mice already installed.
3. The price of this mouse will set you back and have you looking elsewhere. But, the advantages of this mouse far outweigh the little-bit-above-customer-expectation price ...
4. This mouse requires a learning curve, as its design and the use of a trackball may not be familiarized with everyone's use. For those of you who have never used a trackball or is used to using a trackball with your thumb, this mouse does take a day or two to get totally used to.
5. Use the initial orientation/setup process seriously. Because of the nature of the styling of this mouse, the way you position the mouse on your desk while orienting/setting up the mouse will have an impact on usage.

Advantages:
1. RF frequency is used to the best capabilities in this mouse. I've used mice from other manufacturers and this one tops all of them. Using digital radio technology, this mouse allows you to place the RF receiver pretty much anywhere you'd like up to 20 feet away from the computer.
2. The many buttons on the mouse help you to minimize use of keyboard. It has Back/Forward, scroll, Drag Lock, Fast Scroll, and conventional buttons.
3. The compact receiver helps to minize clutter on your desktop and helps when you want to carry it and the mouse around (if you're blessed like me to have a laptop).
4. Customer support is one of the best in the industry, with lifetime phone support and a 5-year warranty.
5. Installation was a breeze. a) Download Logitech Drivers version 9.75.0 or above b) Install drivers c) Connect hardware d) Press Connect button on the hardware for 20seconds - 1minute e) You're Done! Enjoy!
6. This mouse comes shipped with a serial port adapter, giving you total flexibility to connect via USB or serial - I strongly recommend using the USB ports due to the advanced nature of the hardware and the reliability of USB ports.
7. The name of Logitech speaks for itself.

All in all, I recommend this product wholeheartedly to you.
If you do purchase one, buy from Amazon.com as they did an excellent job of fulfilling my order the same day.
Bang for your Buck: 10
User Friendly: 9
Service and Customer Support: 10
Installation: 10
Design: 8
Battery Life: 10
Performance: 10

State of the Art for the Trackball user
Being a confirmed trackball person this is probably as good as it can be for now. Operation is silky smooth, all buttons are fully
configurable and the hand comfort is excellent. Sometimes cordless
can be pesky, not so with this unit as everything is right on. I was never much for scrolling and some of the other things this unit can do, but am now just plain spoiled.

Excellent Mouse
I just received this Trackman and have been using it for about an hour. It is excellent. The ball is smooth, precise and responsive. I bought the Microsoft version first and returned it because the ball rolled like it was a studded snow tire.
The buttons will take some getting used to but it is worth it.

Exquisite and powerful
The best wireless trackball you can buy, period. This mouse comes fully equipped with all of the bells and whistles that you'd expect from a modern mouse. The layout of the buttons is extremely comfortable and easy to use.

The only thing that could cause concern is the size. If you have small hands, you may want to reconsider. ... Read more

Features

• Share your Internet connection with built-in 4-Port switch
• Compatible with 802.11g and 802.11b networks
• Advanced Firewall and Security Controls
• Built-in 4-Port SwitchOperating range of up to 328 feet indoors, up to 1,312 feet outdoors
• Quick and easy set-up

Reviews (16)

Nice little wireless router
I'm not sure if the other reviewers have problems reading instructions or if they just skipped steps. Had no problems at all getting this unit set up and establishing connections between my desktop and Inspiron 5150. Take it out of the box, connect an ethernet cable between the desktop and router and plug it in. Use your favourite browser to connect to 198.168.1.1 and run through the setup wizard. Then once you've got everything set up, read through the manual, go through the various setup options and tweak as desired. I opted to go with the WPA-PSK authentication protocol because its supposed to be more secure, but if you have other devices that don't support it, you'll probably have to stick with WEP.

It can be laid flat on the desk, or propped up on end vertically using the little rubber feet that are supplied. There are 4 ethernet ports that allow you to connect via 10/100 Ethernet and the WAN port to connect to cable, DSL or LAN. The antenna is on a swivel and can be rotated to just about any convenient orientation.

The only thing I don't like about the router is that it doesn't have an internal clock, so every time it is powered off the router's system time goes back to it's default start value. It can be configured to set the time from an NTP server, but only if it's connected to a WAN network (via DSL, cable or LAN). It's only a minor inconvenience though. The other thing is that the router's web interface only seems to work properly if you use IE. Using Netscape/Mozilla/Firefox sort of works for most things, but not everything.

Great and Small Router! And a tip for those with WAN issues.
I purchased this router to replace my D-Link DI-614+ and it works great! The first thing I noticed immediately out of the box was the size. The DI-524 is VERY small. About 1/3rd the size of the DI-614+. But it still has all of the same great features. Antenna signal strength is stronger and I am very pleased with this unit.

And here's a quick note regarding the problems some people seem to have connecting this device to the Internet via their Cable or DSL modem. It seems that the WAN port is configured out of the box to be locked in at 100 Mbps. This is where the problem comes from. The vast majority of Cable and DSL modems out there operate at 10Mbps per second only. Uh-oh! Bad move D-Link! Because if you plug the router into the modem out of the box and you have a 10Mbps modem you won't be able to connect the devices and you won't be able to go online. Very dumb move D-Link. I bet tons of routers have been returned for service just because of this simple and fixable issue.

This is easily corrected by logging into the router and going to the "Tools" menu and then choosing "Misc". Scroll to the middle of the page and find "WAN select to 10/100 Mbps" and select 10Mbps and click APPLY. Once the router reboots, your router and Cable or DSL modem will be working happily together and all is good. But there really is no reason that this device should be shipping with 100Mbps switched on by default. I hope that future firmware revisions will correct this issue so more novice users can easily setup this great router without issue.

Otherwise, a very good purchase and very good piece of equipment for anyone who is looking for an affordable and reliable WiFi router. Highly recommended.

Hope you're patient
Either I'm stupid or the reviewers who found this thing easy to set up are just lucky. I fought with this thing for several hours and two calls to customer service. Both useless, by the way. The instructions are beyond horrible. They're inadequate clues at best. The encryption process is cruel. You have to do it in the proper order - I believe the base computer you're using for set up and then the your wireless computer. No mention of the order in the directions. Learned by trial and error. Do it backwards and you lose your connection. No instructions for the event you just want to set up your wireless computer without a base 'setup' computer. Having never done encryption I didn't realize that I supply the encryption code. Finally figured that out. Possibly the others out there are just as bad. Now that I've got it set up, it generally works fine. I also set up a d-link wireless printer adaptor. Equally frustrating and directions better but left out one very important fact.

Lousy router doesnt work with IBM Thinkpad
I hate this router already before reading the feedbacks here. If a router wont work with so many devices, it is basically junk. I have used both Microsoft(I know we are against MS) but the router never gave me any problems with any devices, "firmware" also was great. This stupid thing restarts every time I add a MAC address to the filter list. I sneeze and it restarts.
In short, I HATE IT!!!
Go for the little more expensive Netgear or grrr... Microsoft and you will get your money's worth and professionalism.

Beats Linksys any day!
I am happily sitting in my back yard typing up this review on my new D-Link wireless router, which took me less than a half hour to set up and get running with all three of my laptops (including using WEP security).

Previously I had a Linksys router, which was a living nightmare! It constantly dropped the signal and had to be reset, it stopped working altogether one day, then after two hours on the phone with Linksys tech support, I was able to get the Ethernet ports working again - but not the wireless. I've commiserated with many others who've had nothing but trouble with their Linksys products.

On top of being easier to set up, the signal from the D-Link router is much stronger throughout my house than the Linksys ever was. I couldn't be happier! :) ... Read more

Features

• Up to 108 Mbps to your notebook PC with Super G Technology
• 802.11g standard compliance; interoperable with existing 802.11b and 802.11g networks
• 128-bit WEP encryption, upgradeable to Wi-Fi Protected
• Smart Wizard gets you up and running in fewer than 5 clicks
• Compatible with Windows XP Home, XP Professional, 2000, Me, 98SE

Amazon.com Product Description

Logitech's Optical Marble mouse gives you the familiarity of a mouse with the convenience of trackball navigation. Designed for comfort in either hand, this space-saving, four-button trackball boasts Logitech's innovative optical tracking system to deliver superior precision and smooth motion with virtually no maintenance or cleaning required. You get two ways to scroll: click two small buttons for page up and page down, or click one of two large buttons and use the ball for auto scrolling. The trackball gives you precise fingertip control, and the included WebWheel software enhances your Internet browsing. Two AA batteries (supplied) keep the Marble mouse racing for about three months. ... Read more

Features

• Durable optical technology for smooth precision and resistance to dirt, eliminating the need for cleaning
• Large, finger-operated trackball for superior control and reduced hand and wrist movement
• Sleek shape flexible enough to use in either hand
• MouseWare software included for easy scrolling on the Web (in Windows and Macintosh applications)
• A variety of button assignments to customize your mouse buttons

Reviews (43)

Fantastic--stock up when it's cheap
I buy these whenever they are on sale--usually around twenty dollars. My family complained at first but now there is no going back. They love it! Some other reviewers mentioned tracking problems but they go away if you use USB or use PS/2 with the mouse driver that comes with the mouse (I am using one in PS/2 mode on Windows 2000). If you are a Windows XP or Linux user the tracking is much better.

The only problem is the lack of a scrolly wheel. I just reprogram the miniature third and fourth buttons to page-down and back-button for web browsing and I don't miss the scrolly wheel too much.

The housing is small so it's great for my 3-year-old's hands and comfortable for me, too, without being too small. The plastic is very durable and stands up to normal desktop abuse.

The mouse driver is spectacular. Ever since version 9.x of the driver came about the tracking speed and system reliability has been top-notch.

Highly recommended! You will buy a second one to bring to your workplace--no doubt about it.

A high quality ergonomic choice
I bought this product because I needed something more ergonomic - I was having pain in my mouse hand. This mouse changed all that. I work with computers, and I insist on using one of these at work. It has the following benefits:

1. Because it's a trackball, you don't have to move your wrist as much as you would with a mouse.
2. The buttons are placed so that you can click with your thumb, which after all, is stronger (less likely to get injured) than your index finger.
3. It's symmetrical, so you can switch back and forth from using it with your right hand or left hand - that gives your mouse hand a rest.

I echo the comments of others that the optical trackball works great, and almost never needs cleaning. Also, I agree that it stays put nicely on the desk. Yes, this mouse was very different when I first started using it, but very very much worth getting used to it.

Love it!
I loved my Marble Mouse by Logitech. I bought the older version with only the two large buttons. I think a standard mouse is better for playing games but for everything else on the computer it is the only way to go. I have recently upgraded to the Logitech cordless mouse....it too is nice. But if the Optical Marble Mouse came cordless I would plunk my money down and buy it again in a second. I now use my Marble mouse at work and have the cordless at home.

The Best Mouse
I first purchased the Logitech Marble Mouse when my daughter was 2 yrs. old. Her little hand was just able to manipulate the marble. It was great because with a regular mouse she did not have the ability to click it without moving the cursor. Now that we have used this mouse I would never go back to a plain one!

marble mouse
i just got the mouse today or should i say rat i will not lie the mouse is gigantic or maybe my hands are to small mmmm anyway i do like that you don't move the thing around the whole desk and i love the big red ball i thought the mouse was very odd and that's what really caught mt attention and that everyone gave good reviews i wanted to try it anyways ... i have only had the mouse for a few hours but so far i love it probaly should have waited a few days before i wrote this but i tend to get a little excited about things sometimes i'am use the usb connection on the marble mouse because i still wanted to use my wireless ps2 mouse incase i get frustrated alrighty now overall this is a nice product try it ... Read more

Features

• 20 GB HDD plays back over 330 hours of MP3 or 660 hours of WMA music
• Auto-DJ intelligently finds, mixes and creates playlists from tracks on command
• 5-band parametic equalizer with pre-sets
• 15-hours continuous playback with rechargeable LiIon battery
• Compatible with computers with USB 2.0 (1.1 compatible) ports running Windows 98 SE, 2000, ME, or XP

Reviews (149)

It'd be perfect if it didn't break...
I was drawn in by the FLAC and OGG support, since I like to keep my music in nice high fidelity, non-proprietary formats. If the Karma delivered what it promised, I would have been ecstatic.

Let's start with what I liked about the player; mainly FLAC and OGG support. I've publicly said I'd buy a music player once OGG was supported, and I stuck with that. The use of Ethernet to support any operating system is sure genius. The Rio DJ feature that automagically makes playlists for you was pretty good. The battery life is the longest that I know about.

But everything that has been said about the terrible customer service is true. I pushed the scroll wheel in and the overly fragile thing broke. It took Digital Networks a month and a half to replace it...with a refurbished player which has major scratches on the screen. If that wasn't enough, the hard drive is on the edge and will probably die soon, which is a problem because you only get a 30 day warranty on the refurbished player, and the only thing they now offer is to sell me another refurbished player. No thanks.

If you really want this player, go ahead, but purchase it at a place where you can get an extended warranty. The manufacturer will leave you out in the cold.

A Different Experience
Ok, I read a bunch of reviews before buying this fine piece of equipment. Many were negative, but having bought a quality product from Rio in the past, I was optimistic. So far, my experience with the Rio Karma has been exquisite. My review is as follows.

Pros: User interface. The menus are extremely easy to navigate. I enjouy the Rio stick, but find the selection wheel kind of pointless, but I do often find my fingers straying to it. The menus are very extensive and there are many different configurations for all the settings. Ease of transfer. It came with the ability to use an Ethernet port to transfer, but I only have USB, 1.1 at that. File transfer would be faster had I better connection, but I can deal with a mediocre file transfer rate. Sound quality is wonderful for a player of this kind. My friend has an iRiver that was more expensive, but I perfer the sounds of my Karma. The ability to create on the fly playlists I also enjoy. The Rio Dj, which allows you to creates playlists with different parrameters, is very innovative. Comes with transfer dock which can connect to any system with the red and white audio jacks. Very cool to hear my Karma through my stereo. Very nice. It boasts a 15 hr battery life, but I have yet to test it. The size is short and squat, which I like. It fits comfortably in the palm of my hand. Software. Music Transfer program is bug free so far and has a very simple user interface. Warranty, I didnt get the Rio warranty, but bought the player at Circuit City who has a one year warranty for replacement, which does work. Take in your broken player, and they give you a new one (or store credit). The hard drive has performed well so far, but I have heard some horror stories about dying drives.

Cons: The one thing that bothers me is the fact that Rio skimped on a case and packed a carrying "pouch" with the Karma. Think of those little bags that you used to fill with colorful rocks at crappy tourist attractions. The pouch is like that. The lack of a case bothered me, but not enough to choose another player. On albums where tracks run itno another, flow, there is sometimes a slight, extremely slight, pause befor the next track. I can deal with it, but it can get annoying. The headphones that come packaged witht the player wer ok, but I perfer my own Sony earbuds. It lacks features that other players have, such as the ability to record sound (which I probably never use, but it would be nice). No remote, but I can manage.

Overall: Overall, the Karma is a solid player and a good value. I got mine for under $300, which was a very good deal. I perfer it to the iPod, which I feel is overhyped. There is no case, so I have to be careful with it, but I am not very reckless with my electronics. If you want a quality player for a good price that scores well across the board I would reccomend the Rio Karma in all its 20 gigabitey goodness. I would have given a 4 1/2, but the rank in intervals of one. The deduction because of the case, or lack thereof.

Bad Karma
Got this player about a year ago and was very happy at first. I have had Rio players in the past but this one had all the features I wanted and it appeared to work very well. Right after the 90 day warranty is when it first locked up. I searched the internet and found that this is a very common problem and wished I had researched this unit before I bought it. Am VERY disappointed that it freezes up all the time but have learned to carry a paper clip with me to reset it. And for anyone interested I am NOT a fan of the Ipod. The Karma would be excellent if only it worked...

Must have for any music lover!
1st I would caution a number of you that read adds that claim hardware issues with RIO and that Apple is the only choice. The fact of the matter is that you are assuming that all reviews (including this one) are in fact truthful. The reality is that competing players and dedicated users write negative reviews to cloud your vision and point you towards their product (Apple). I've been a RIO owner for almost a year and have had 1 freeze up (my fault, pulled cable while loading), which was cleared by simply reseting the unit. A lot of consumers (myself included) are drawn into the marketing and cool factors of a product and lose what we want in the product. For example, when you buy a drill you aren't looking for a drill, but it's ability to make holes - ie. your buying a hole maker. Same with MP3 players. Although cool look and design are held up high on the buy me platform, what do you want? RIO delivers high quality sound, an included docking station, looong battery life, and the ability to mix your music any which way. Here is where RIO is the clear choice. You can sort by year, decade, most recently played, genre, random, artist, album, or create your play lists. I have over 400 CDs and I find that my music is fresh now that it can be played in various fashions. This player allows for almost every format (mp3, ogg, WMA, etc..) and you can set the bit rate. I use 192bps for the best sound, but 128 is good for most. Even with 2200 songs at 192bps I still have 6 gig left! The unit fits in your hand well and I can navigate well without looking at the screen - important while driving. I was able to go drive from Milwaukee to Philidelphia on 1 charge! The bottom line is that this is a good player from a reputable manufacturer and if the 90 warranty scares you, than get an extended one. My personal philosophy is to NEVER get an extended warranty on anything, save that money and apply it to a product that may fail in the future. Why bet on using it, because most likely you want and that money will be lost for ever. The software is good, but be sure to stay current on the hardward upgrades (free on line). This ensures that any bugs that come up are addressed and enhancements are made to keep your player competitive with others over time. I do not now of any other players that use the feedback from their users to make enhancements on the existing product. Usually it isn't until the next generation that you see the upgrade. Bottom line - if you love music, then you'll love the RIO Karma!

Has a 3 months life
The warranty is only 3 months and thats because the life of this product is only expected to be 3 months
I always though before that those complaining lied but now after 3 months my Rio Karma player is dead.
If you want to buy it then you must get an extended warranty. ... Read more