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Tech Toys That Set the Pace
Meg A. Byte, a pseudonym for technology writer, educator, and educational technology consultant Constance Bleiler, is Education World's technology expert.
Dear Meg A. Byte,
In an effort to turn this hard-driven plodder into a technological thoroughbred, my favorite computer jockey recently e-mailed me a gift certificate for my favorite online technology mall. The only problem is, I'm having trouble picking a favorite product. Any suggestions?
Signed, Jimmy the Geek
Dear Jimmy,
So many toys; so little time. Odds are, though, that you'll find something fabulous in one of the categories below.
How about a flat panel monitor for your computer? Prices for these terrific little space savers have come down considerably in the past 18 months. If you deal in high-end graphics, a reasonably priced flat panel, at $450 and up, could be a real winner.
A digital still camera will make sure you don't miss a single photo finish, and a number of amazing models are in the running. Some of these digital cameras -- with price tags staring at around $200 -- not only will capture still images but record sound and MPEG video as well.
Since you apparently have money to throw away, you might consider simply upgrading your present computer system with more RAM, a new printer, or new software.
I'd recommend a printer made specifically for output of photographic images. Some even allow you to connect your digital camera directly to the printer with no need to involve your computer at all. If you play your cards right, for $300 and up, you may never need to visit another photo lab.
You can also upgrade your handheld computer. These days, the small units, starting at $200, do everything you can dream of, including access e-mail and the Web, beam data, and more.
Finally, how's your Internet service? If you have dial-up service, you might consider switching to high-speed DSL or cable access. Instead of blowing all your money at once, use it to pay the slightly higher monthly access fees.
Bottom line -- the options for high-tech toys are virtually limitless. Bet you can't pick just one!
Meg
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