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TechSavvy: You get what you pay for

Published:Saturday | December 11, 2010 | 12:00 AM

Payton H. Wilmott, Gleaner Writer

I know that I may come off as being rich at times, but I assure you that I am far from being financially stable. This week, I'll be looking at two posh and outlandish items for the technology high-rollers.

Logitech QuickCam Orbit AF

Topping our list this week is the Logitech QuickCam Orbit AF, which retails for around $20,000. This web cam has the largest price tag I've ever seen, but it also offers a lot of functions I wish the competitors would adopt. Let's strip away the distracting price tag and see if this thing is really worth it.

What can it do?

This web cam comes stacked with so many features, you'll think it came from a high-security military base. Let me elaborate on the awesomeness of the Logitech QuickCam Orbit AF.

Pros

Eight-megapixel images interpolated from a native two- megapixel sensor (great image quality).

Motorised tracking (It moves to always keep you in focus).


What am I going to do with it?

This web cam is great for making video calls with Skype, and is also a great deterrent for all the Joes out there. Seriously, though, this would make a great security camera for a room that you need constant eyes on.

Conclusion

Let's be frank: Ladies dig the high-tech robotic gadgets, and I'm all for scoring points with the ladies. So yes, I would buy it if I had the cash to spare.

Logitech diNovo Mini

The Logitech diNovo Mini is the second item on our list with a price tag around $17,000. This device is dedicated to all the coach potatoes out that won't change the TV channel unless they are within arm's length of the remote control.

What can it do?

The Logitech diNovo Mini is a palm-sized keyboard with media remote and click pad. This device gives you full control over your PC wirelessly from up to 30 feet. To tell you the truth, I am currently typing this from my bathroom at the moment, and it feels amazing! This tiny thing also comes with a touch pad, built in to let you move the cursor around the screen at will.

What am I going to do with it?

This device is perfect for persons who have a large computer screen that can be seen from a distance. All you need to do is plug in the USB Bluetooth dongle that comes with the device, and you'll be ready to surf the Web, watch movies, or even type documents from the convenience of your sofa. One other noteworthy feature is its ability to work with your PS3(PlayStation 3).

Conclusion

To be honest, when I first saw this keyboard, I said hell no to the price, but after a hands-on with the Logitech diNovo Mini, I am now a believer. Yes, the price is steep, but after you have held this baby in your hands and seen it's beautiful backlit keys, you'll know what you are paying for.

Logitech QuickCam Orbit AF

Topping our list this week is the Logitech QuickCam Orbit AF, which retails for around $20,000. This webcam has the largest price tag I've ever seen, but it also offers a lot of functions I wish the competitors would adopt. Let's strip away the distracting price tag and see if this thing is really worth it.

What can it do?

This webcam comes stacked with so many features, you'll think it came from a high-security military base. Let me elaborate on the awesomeness of the Logitech QuickCam Orbit AF.

Pros

Eight-megapixel images interpolated from a native two- megapixel sensor (great image quality).

Motorised tracking (It moves to always keep you in focus).

What am I going to do with it?

This webcam is great for making video calls with Skype, and is also a great deterrent for all the Joes out there. Seriously, though, this would make a great security camera for a room that you need constant eyes on.

Conclusion

Let's be frank: Ladies dig the high-tech robotic gadgets, and I'm all for scoring points with the ladies. So yes, I would buy it if I had the cash to spare.


Final Thoughts

Well, I've learnt not to judge a gadget by its price tag, and to always explore the known unknown. By the way, folks, look out for my Christmas wish list next week.

Email feedback to saturdaylife@gleanerjm.com. The products mentioned in this article were provided courtesy of Royale Computers and Accessories; telephone: 906-1067, 906-1068 or 754-5048.