Perfectly simple solar-powered calculator by Naoto Fukasawa.

No matter how complex your calculations may be, the Electric Calculator M was designed to make things a bit more simple. With easy to read numbers, a slightly elevated display section, and uniform color on both body and keys, any elements of complexity have been scaled back as much as possible. The idea of doing work has suddenly become a bit more attractive...

[posted by kris]

Since I'm an aspiring minimalist (it's a struggle), I've been trying to implement the paper free lifestyle described in this Lifehacker article. I've been scanning in my old paperwork and shredding it and saving everything to my tiny USB key. I've been a little paranoid about what would happen if I lost it or it got wet, but I do back it up to two separate harddrives just in case. This particular one is 8 GB (which would be enough to hold a lifetime of data) and it's shock and water resistant.

These color-coded keyboard skins hold the secret to learning the bajillion shortcuts that come with certain applications.

Our custom-fitted color-coded keyboard skins are available for...
APPLICATIONS: * Photoshop * Aperture (1.5) * Final Cut Pro/Express * Pro Tools * After Effects * Logic Pro KEYBOARDS: * MacBook Pro * Macbook (Black and White) * Macbook Air * Apple Thin Keyboard * Apple Thin Wireless Keyboard * Apple Classic Keyboard

-Models available for notebook computers and desktop keyboards.
-Molded exactly to fit your keyboard like a glove.
-Quick to remove and reapply as often as you wish.
-Keeps your keyboard clean and clear of debris.
-Made from beautiful, flexible, washable rubber, color-coded by function.

Skins for Laptops, $30.00
Skins for Desktops, $40.00

(Thanks Amit!)

[posted by katie]

Having the right tools certainly helps a job go faster, and with these brightly colored hex keys you might just have the urge to whistle while you work.

"Rainbow hex key L - wrench set for hexagon socket screws, powder coated with color code for the different sizes."

[via the function key]

[posted by katie]

Thank goodness for all the cable management stuff that's on the market nowadays, because unsightly cords can ruin the feeling of a clean and organized space.

Under or on the desk, next to the computer, or behind the TV, loose tangled cables are always untidy dust traps. CableBox is the solution to solve these issues. Simply place your power strips or surge protector inside CableBox. No need to unplug anything first. Then stow away the surplus cable lengths, close the lid and done. Designed with cable outlets either side of the box, CableBox will fit almost every size power strip with extra space for the cords, adapters, etc.

Available in Black or White.
15.6" x 6" x 5.3"

[posted by katie]

Available in mushroom, espresso or white, this lacquered docking station conceals the cords of your devices in one handy place.

A space-saving way station for cell phones, digital cameras, blackberrys, mp3 players and their charging kits. Wood construction with a glossy lacquered finish. Hinged back holds a surge protector, cords and plugs; rear cutout feeds cords to an outlet. Large drawer stores notes, pens and more. White, mushroom or espresso.

15"w x 9.25"d x 4.75"h.

[posted by katie]

The Phonofone II is now available in black(!).

"Through passive amplification alone, these unique pieces instantly transform any personal music player + earbuds into a sculptural audio console. Without the use of external power or batteries, the Phonofone II inventively exploits the virtues of horn acoustics to boost the audio output of standard earphones to up to 55 decibels."

Material: Ceramic
11" x 9.5" x 20" (28 x 25 x 51 cm)

[posted by katie]

Guess what material this new version of the KangaRoom Charging Station is made from...yep, the ever-so-recently-popular bamboo. Also, if you'd prefer to keep your gadgets close to the computer, there's a monitor and laptop stand as well.

3 Pod Charging Station, 13"L x 3.75"W x 5"H: $45.00, Buy it here.
Monitor Stand and Charging Station, 14"L x 11"W x 3"H: $45.00, Buy it here.
Laptop Stand, 20"L x 12"W x 3"H: $45.00, Buy it here.

[posted by katie]

Other than the fact these two items are both from the same retailer, both eco-friendly, and both cost the same, these two products really have nothing whatsoever in common.

Organic Cotton Shoe Bag:
"Keep your shoes looking like new with this organic cotton shoe bag. Whether they are traveling with you or sitting in the closet, placing your shoes in a bag will protect them from everyday elements and wear-and-tear that over time can make even the nicest shoes looking a bit worn. A classic black and white image of a pair of oxford wingtips gives the bag a masculine, retro quality and will make any man feel like Cary Grant. Handmade by South African Artisans of organic cotton."
16" L x 19" W
$25.00, Buy it here.

Dynamo Solar Radio:
"This handy-dandy, (not to mention cute) little radio has a great vintage look and compact, eco-friendly design, making it the ideal combo of smart and stylish. Charge its built-in battery using either solar energy or the hand crank, and you're guaranteed to never be without music, news or weather when you need it most."
3" H x 3" W x 2" D
$25.00, Buy it here.

[and both were found via productdose]

[posted by katie]

Why, oh why are there still devices that are not Mac compatible?

"Inspired by the number pad on a keyboard, this calculator has all the standard features and can easily be connected to a laptop or PC via USB cable connection to add number-pad functionality. It can also be used independently. Not MAC compatible. One LR1130 battery included."

1h x 5.5w x 3.25"d

[posted by katie]