Computer\Internet
After initially resisting buying a computer (using the ones at the
university or work) I am now caught up in the rapid succession of hardware &
software. I am currently running Windows XP on an Intel Pentium 4 Hyperthreading
3.2 GHz. but am planning an upgrade to a dual-core with Vista. My latest
computer is with my in-laws, whereas my current one is earmarked for the boys
(Joshua already enjoys surfing cartoon and games-sites).
As most people these days I am using (ADSL) broadband, a moderate 512Mbps. This is connected through a wireless router for access in the house (and on the patio).
For my e-mail and web-pages I am using a free redirector through Bigfoot. It's a great service which actually distributes the e-mail to my private account but when I change providers no-one needs to change their address-book, I just change the redirection.
I also have a webcamera\microphone for Skype (rarely) or Netmeeting (simon_dorst@hotmail.com)
Audio\Visual
I am not the greatest of audio-philes but a few years ago I collected a decent system, consisting of:
- Phillips Matchline Widescreen TV (CRT still)
- Toshiba DTV received and HDD recorder
- Panasonic DVD recorder
- Yamaha Receiver (with 5 surround speakers)
My greatest gadget here is a Logitech Universal Remote, which
can be programmed through the Internet and computer.
We've been through a couple of digital cameras but are currently using a Panasonic Lumix (LZ1, 4 Megapixel). Our video-camera is a Sony miniDV but next year (when going overseas and thus being able to shop duty-free) we hope to replace it (probably with a HDD model, either Sony or JVC).
When I went regularly to Singapore I managed to buy some gadgets, such as Bose Noise-cancelling headphones (great for on the plane) and iPods for myself (60Gb) and Lisa (30Gb). I use mine mainly in the car (with an AUX-connection). And recently I got for Fathers Day a digital photoframe.
I used to have a succession of PDAs (starting with a Cassiopea E10, then 2 HP iPaqs) but as I mainly use them as portable address-book & calendar I've found a better solution (see further).
Business\Mobile
As I use a home-office for Lucid IT, they provide me with some tools, such as the internet-connection, a HP Officejet 3030 and a laptop (Dell Latitude D510).
Most recent was a replacement of my mobile phone
and as I wanted an integration with my PDA (address-book & calendar mainly)
I've gone with a Windows Smartphone, the i-Mate
SP5. This allows me to sync with Outlook\Exchange
and receive (or send) e-mails on the road (via GPRS).