May 13, 2007 - KGO - For the first time, goofy gadgets outnumber practical peripherals to connect to your computer. It's a modern office phenomenon.
You know that you can attach cameras and disk drives and all sorts of practical things to your computer. But did you know you can attach fish, missiles and beer?
USB stands for Universal Serial Bus, that ubiquitous connector for all things digital. Although, lately, it appears the applications are more whimsical than practical. Take my alewife. Please. Actually, tropical fish. The USB aquarium is sold as a stress reliever.
Ah, but what better way to relieve stress than a rocket launcher? This one will inflict shock and awe on every cubicle within 15 feet. Comes with three foam missiles. And, if everything starts to get out of control, the panic button.
And you know that the paperless office that never materialized? Why not have your computer sharpen your pencil? The iSharpener comes with a 3- foot cord.
You might have heard of USB cup warmers. There are chillers, too. Once you've chilled you beverage, you might want a PopDrive. It's an actual USB data drive that open a bottle. Think of the teeth you'll save!
And why decorate the office, when you can decorate the monitor? The USABBirthday kit comes with lights, ribbons, mouse pad and party hat.
The USB Industry Association is understandably cautious about this, saying, Be careful what you plug into your computer. It's a communications standard, not originally intended to power things like this. But they're not killjoys.
The lesson is: have fun with your computer. Let's just not get squirrelly out there. The faster you type, the faster the hamster runs.
--Richard Hart--
