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IBM INTRODUCES THINKPAD WITH REAL PAD

There are all sorts of notebook computers with all the usual peripherals found on a desktop model. But IBM has added a new and novel input device to their highly successful ThinkPad line of laptops; a notepad. The TransNote combines a ThinkPad with a real paper notepad on which you can scribble handwritten notes. But anything and everything you write can be instantly transferred into the computer. According to IBM, this heralds a new series trend that will let users access the computer using more traditional ways of recording information such as handwriting.

Handwriting is an already proven technology due to the success of the Personal Digital Assistant or PDA. Using a stylus, most PDAs will accept some sort of handwriting input and practically all of them are controlled via a stylus. TransNote users can enter data via the keyboard, notepad or the unit's touch sensitive screen. The entire unit comes in a portfolio styled cover that allows access to the computer, notepad or both. Weighing in at about 5.5 pounds with a pivoting 10.4 inch screen, the TransNote is scheduled to be available in February.

www.ibm.com

Dressing for success

Personal digital assistants such the Palm PDA can fit into a pocket. But the best-dressed man should have a suit pocket designed specifically for a Palm organizer. The Japanese Onward Kashiyama Co. makes a suit called the "ICB Suit//Palm Computing," which comes with an M100 Palm organizer in a specially designed pocket. Armani, eat your heart out . . .

Lilliputian camera for your travels

How about a digital camera that can almost fit in your wallet's credit card pocket? The Ultra-Pocket is 6 millimeters thin, connects to your computer via USB, comes with a removable 8 megabyte card that stores 40 pictures and more. Thin is truly in! The Ultra-Pocket will be on sale sometime this spring at a yet undetermined price. For information, visit SMaL Camera Technologies at www.smalcamera.com

Something Smells!

The Smell-O-Vision TV set never became a reality much to the dismay of those who predicted its coming starting back in the '50's. However it looks like something similar just might make it to dealer's shelves. DigiScents is a shark fin shaped peripheral that can actually mix and match chemicals to produce realistic smells like coffee, chocolate and lots more. According to its developer, special "Scentertainment" software will communicate with the DigiScent unit to produce whatever smell may be desired. Stinky web sites that use the enabling odor technology will let you sniff your way through restaurants, supermarkets and even the local zoo. Games like Word Sniff let you spell aromatic words and Scent Blaster lets you play smelly games. You might think that something stinks after reading all of this, but it's a real product and there's nothing fishy about it.

www.digiscents.com