Your Technology Jun. 29, 1998

Your Own Power Plant

Homes might soon be equipped with their own generators, thanks to fuel-cell technology, which promises to be cheaper and less polluting than today's power plants. Fuel cells use an electrochemical process without combustion to convert fuel into electricity. Plug Power demonstrated the first home model in Latham, N.Y., last week. The units should be available to consumers within two years for $3,000 to $5,000, and could shave power bills by 20%.

No-Hassle Instant Prints

Kodak has introduced a new PC accessory that quickly converts pictures shot with APS film into a digital format for onscreen viewing, printing or e-mailing. Simply insert a roll of developed APS film into the Advantix Film Drive ($349, available in July), and images are digitized directly from negatives for optimal quality.

Once Upon A Mattress

Searching for the ultimate bed? Serta's Perfect Night Vitalize comes with computer-controlled air cells that automatically adjust firmness no matter what position you're in. It monitors your heartbeat and respiration as well as how often you turn over. Originally designed for hospitals, the $5,000 mattress is being test-marketed in Indianapolis, Ind., and Cleveland, Ohio, and will be available in New York City and Miami by August.

--By Anita Hamilton and Michelle R. Derrow