GeekSugar

USB Desk Fan: Love It or Leave It?

GeekSugar — Wed, 28 May 2008 16:00:29 PDT

Urban Outfitters has really been satisfying my vintage needs lately, but with shiny newness intact. First there was that old-timey USB Webcam, and now this mod-ish USB Desk Fan!

It's only $15 bucks and unlike that webcam, works for both Macs and PCs.

Since this is basically a miniature-sized version of a fan that I have in my house, I have no qualms about its design and think it's a bit more attractive than the other USB fans I showcased recently. What's your take?

9 Tips to Make Your Computer Last and Run Fast

LearnVest — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:15:00 PDT

We're thrilled to present this smart LearnVest story here on Savvy!

Cute bathing suit vs. medical co-pay. Yummy organic blueberries vs. credit card late fees. Beachside mojitos vs. laptop repair.

When it comes to certain expenses, it’s clear which we’d prefer. So, as a public service to help you fund all of your summer cocktails, we recommend taking a look at your Old Faithful–your computer, that is.

It’s your buddy, your confidant, and it brings you all the great info out there (like, ahem, this article). And at a grand or more apiece, it’s worth your while to make sure this expensive electronic goes the distance–if only to keep your summer funds going where they should be.

From dusting your USB ports to coddling that battery, we bring you nine tips to make sure that your machine does your bidding for ages to come:

1. Protect Yourself

If your computer were to get a virus, a diagnostic and fix at a place like Best Buy could cost as much as $200. So, protect yourself in advance. Make sure you have an antivirus and that all of your definitions are up to date. If you don’t pay for an antivirus, get a free one like AVG or Avast.

2. Watch Your Water

We can tell you from firsthand experience that one of the easiest ways to ruin a laptop is to reach for a glass of water on your desk late at night. This may sound basic, but prevent spilling on your expensive electronics by investing in a closed lip water bottle to use near your computer. If you’re on the market for a stylish new bottle that will keep your laptop-and the environment-safe, check out our picks.

Read on for more great tips.

Review: Motorola Atrix 4G and Accessories

Kristen Hawley — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:30:13 PST

A lot of gadgets cross our desks at Sugar HQ, but rarely does one pique the interest of everyone - even the IT guy. The Motorola Atrix 4G and its optional accessories are like nothing I've seen before, most notably because it essentially turns into a fully functioning PC and home entertainment center. The phone runs on AT&T's new 4G network and connects via a dock to either a laptop or to your TV, complete with keyboard, mouse, and remote control, enabling you to view HD video.

What's in the box:
The phone, laptop dock, and TV dock are sold separately. The Atrix starts at $199 for the phone alone with a two-year contract. The laptop dock costs $499, but apply an instant $100 rebate and additional $100 mail-in rebate to bring the price to $299. The HD dock will run you an additional $130; $190 for the dock bundled with keyboard and mouse.

Find out more, including my take on the Atrix after the break.

Making the Most of Your Tiny Desk

Lizzie Fuhr — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 10:40:00 PDT

Whether you're in the process of sprucing up a small office or you're about to head off to college, having a comfortable work space at your home base is integral. We all know there's nothing worse than being stressed when you're on the heels of a huge project or you're trying to cram the night before a big exam, and clutter on your desk only creates more stress. You may be glued to your desk at your day job, or if you're a college-aged kid, you may be planning to live at the library, but having a space to work from home, regardless of size, can make your life far easier.

For all the working women, I love this Sort and the City Desk Organizer ($30). It's a great way to keep files together, and I love the wooden cosmopolitan scene. Its unassuming color would be a great addition to any desk. For the collegiate ladies out there, I'm a huge fan of the USB Tulip Hub ($22). These little guys will be your best friend at the library when you're working on a paper or preparing to print. Instead of a boring design, mix it up with this portal pot of tulips.

You may be tempted to fill up that desk with tchotchkes, trinkets, and a million framed photos, but take a step back and re-examine the scenario. Instead of the cluttered chaos, choose practical office accessories with flair!