TIME Tech Buyer's Guide 2005: Carried Away

previous | next

1. Itronix Rugged Hummer Laptop

www.hummerlaptops.com ($2,990 to $4,550)
Like the SUV, it's built to take a beating. It has a magnesium case, removable hard drive, plus optional touch screen, GPS receiver and wireless modem.

2. USB Security Keys

kingston.com ($34 to $168)
Kingston's Data Traveler II Plus USB key has 256 MB to 1 GB of storage and Migo software that lets you save your Windows desktop and bring it to any computer.

lexar.com ($40 to $100)
The Lexar JumpDrive Secure II has software to encrypt any file you drag to it, plus a "shredder" for permanent deletion. 256 MB to 1 GB.

kensington.com ($50)
Kensington's Personal Firewall for Notebooks helps you keep personal data private when using your PC at a public wireless hot spot.

3. Sony Vaio TX

sonystyle.com ($2,000 to $2,600)
Mobility meets high performance: the TX weighs less than 3 lbs. but gets up to 71/2 hours of battery life and has a built-in DVD drive and a Cingular wireless modem.

(Not Pictured) Iomega Mini Drive

iomega.com ($150 to $290)
This hard drive is USB-powered, so you can back up data anywhere--no wall plug required. Capacity ranges from 20 GB to 60 GB, and drives include auto-backup software.

NEXT: Twist 'n Shout

BY WILSON ROTHMAN
PHOTOGRAPHS FOR TIME BY JAMES WOJCIK