Gizmodo: Belkin

Lightning Review: Belkin CushTop Hideaway Laptop Cushion

Jason Chen — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EDT

The Gadget: A semi-solid cushion for your laptop that separates hot aluminum from fleshy thighs, plus has a small space to store random things (like your charger).

The Price: $39.99

The Verdict: Alright. It does what it says, which is giving you a small cushion between your laptop and your thighs. It's better than a normal pillow because it's flat, and gives adequate airflow for proper ventilation. The little hiding hole is enough for you to shove your iPod, wallet, or various computer accessories into, but it's really meant for you to put your laptop into for storage when you're not using it.

The only thing we have a problem with is the price. $40 seems to be too high for something like this (it was listed incorrectly as $64.99 on their press release) when you can get something like the Kangaroom Bamboo Laptop station for $45. Or, you can wait for Belkin's other laptop cooling devices like the Cooling Lounge, which cost the same but have a fan on board for extra ventilation. [Belkin]

Update: The version commenters are seeing at Costco for $19 is actually the previous design, not this current one which retails for $39.

Belkin Laptop Accessories Keep Your Lap Cool During Marathon Internet Surfing Sessions

Elaine Chow — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Belkin has unveiled several solutions that'll help keep laptop people like me from burning our tender flesh. Come this October, the bunch of us that adamantly refuse to work from an actual desk can choose between the $64.99 CushTop Hideaway, which doubles as a laptop storage case, or the $39.99 Laptop Cooling Lounge, which uses a fan to divert heat from the body. Having used the smell of searing leg meat as a sign that I've been tethered to my computer too long, I guess I'll now have to find other ways to convince myself to get off the couch. [Belkin via Notcot]

Belkin BreakFree: MacBook MagSafe Cable for Your Guitar

Benny Goldman — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

The BreakFree is Belkin's fix for crazy rockers who can't get through a set without ripping up their amp or guitar's cord jack by flailing around too much. One part of the $20 two-piece kit fits in the axe's cord jack, while the other goes to the cord itself, and you can rock safe knowing that if you make any wild moves the plugs—which don't degrade sound quality—will snap apart without ruining your gear, a la Apple's MagSafe MacBook cable. Super extreme rockers can get another pack to use for the amp as well, but if you're that wacky on stage, you should probably just go wireless. Out in September, press release after the jump.

Belkin BreakFree Protects Your Amps

¶ Easy-to-Use BreakFree Connectors Complement Your Existing Cables with a Magnetic Breakaway Connector
COMPTON, Calif. —(Business Wire)— Jul. 10, 2008 Belkin International, Inc., announces new BreakFree Connectors, which detach under extreme tension, protecting your amplifier or guitar from unexpected damage. BreakFree will provide noise-free dynamic sound without any degradation in audio quality.

Belkin's BreakFree Connectors are designed to eliminate the popping that occurs when cables are accidentally unplugged from a live amplifier. Additionally, for musicians with multiple guitars, the product makes guitar swapping seamless without the hassle of shutting down or putting your amplifier on standby.

AVAILABILITY

— September 2008 in the US, Canada, Europe, and Asia

BreakFree (F8Z294) - US: $19.99

— Supports 1/4" TRS plug

— Strong magnet with quick detachment

— Consistent audio quality

— Reduces cable clutter

BreakFree Tips (F8Z293-2) - US: $9.99

— Use with BreakFree Connector

— Two in a pack

— Supports 1/4" TRS plug

[Belkin]

Belkin Delivers Dual-XLR Audio Recording to the iPod

Adam Frucci — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EDT

Many portable media players have audio recorders built in so you can record audio directly to them. The iPod does not. Interested in adding that feature? Say hello to Belkin's crazy, $120 solution to this problem: the GoStudio (initially announced as the Podcast Studio. Essentially, it adds an audio-in to your iPod, but it also has a speaker for playing your awkward voice notes back, dual-XLR microphone inputs and a bunch of knobs and stuff for tweaking your recordings. And even though it's expensive and looks all professional, it only records in 16 bit, and we all know that true audio nerds demand 24 bit. It's mucho overkill for people who just want to make voice notes, but if you want to record your band's demo directly to your iPod for some reason this could work for you.

Belkin FlyWire Wireless HDMI Box Beams 1080p Anywhere in Your House, Looks Fantastic

matt buchanan — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 03:00:00 EDT

We first saw Belkin's slick-looking wireless HDMI kit at CES, when it was due in September for about $600. Now dubbed FlyWire (nice and catchy!), they've got two initial entries: FlyWire will shoot full 1080p goodness using the 5GHz band to anywhere in your house, walls be damned, for $999. Plus, it has an IR backchannel for controlling hidden AV devices. Or FlyWire R1 gets you in-room wireless for $699.99.

FlyWire is set for October, though those looking for the mildly cheaper in-room option will have to wait until early next year. Both of them are pricier than Monster's $600 wireless HDMI setup, which is also supposed to hit in October (though it cheats a bit by using UWB-over-Coax to nail whole-home streaming). Check out all the specs below to compare for yourself:
[Belkin]

Belkin's iPhone 3G Micro Grip is a HUGE Spiderman Fan

Mark Wilson — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:20:00 EDT

In Belkin's new line of iPhone 3G cases, their standout has to be this webbed Micro Grip. Rubberized and poked with holes in all the necessary places, we're not so sure it's our cup of tea, but we can't take our eyes off it either. Still, one thing's for sure—somewhere in Cupertino, Jonathan Ive is writing one sad LiveJournal entry about how he can "now never see SpiderMan 4" but at least "possibly enjoy Iron Man 2." [Belkin's iPhone 3G cases and just for reference Griffin's iPhone 3G cases]

Intel, Belkin Pushing Ozmo, the Wi-Fi-Based Bluetooth Killer

John Herrman — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EDT

Ozmo, a spanking new startup backed by Intel and partnered with Belkin, will demo its new Wi-Fi-based Bluetooth competitor at Computex on Tuesday. The system, which is the central part of Intel’s Cliffside concept, uses current Wi-Fi hardware to create secondary networks that connect with peripherals built with its new transceiver. The transceiver will have a power draw comparable to Bluetooth, but its biggest perk is that it’ll support enough bandwidth for the long, long overdue high quality media streaming that the 'tooth could never deliver.

Intel claims that this tech could allow up to eight secondary connections (which would mean eight wireless peripherals at once) as well as a concurrent connection to a standard 802.11x network, all on existing Wi-Fi hardware. It looks like anyone running current-gen Intel wireless adapters can expect to be able to connect with Ozma chip-equipped accessories with what essentially amounts to a driver upgrade.

There aren’t any Cliffside-enabled devices on the market yet, but Intel and Belkin have enough resources and market presence to give the system a pretty good chance at catching on. [Computer World]

Belkin's Mashup Surge Protector and USB Charger is Perfect, Tiny

Kit Eaton — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 05:00:13 EDT

I was desperate for a product just like Belkin's mini surge protector and USB charger combo yesterday, as I struggled behind my desk with the nest of wires, power bricks and surge protection to find my phone charger. Taking the small-is-neat approach, Belkin looks to have tackled their Dual USB Power Adapter and Monster Power Outlets to Go and made them one handy package. Sure, it won't change the world, but it's a nifty product that might tidy your home up a bit. If only it came with Euro-shaped sockets, I find myself thinking. Out soon for $25. [Belkin and CNET crave]

From Rumorware to Bandwagonware: Here Come the MacBook Air Accessories

Wilson Rothman — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 12:00:43 EST

It starts with a case: This week, after one company preemptively announced a sexy MacBook Air sleeve before the Jobsnote, others have followed suit. Not only is there a real Manila folder case in the works, but others, from WaterField to Belkin, are launching their own lineups. Here are Belkin's first hasty MBA-friendly bags. (They're pretty, but almost too pretty. Is Belkin saying that the MacBook Air is for girls?) Like I said, the Bandwagonware starts with cases—easiest to fudge—but soon we think we'll see companies like Belkin, Targus, Kensington, DLO and Griffin popping other goodies, from neon rubber protective skins to any number of competitively priced drives and dongles, just to fit in. [Belkin]

Belkin Podcast Studio, iPods Get XLR

Mark Wilson — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 00:01:00 EST

The Pitch: Use your iPod for mobile podcast/audio recording.

The Gadget: Belkin Podcast Studio is an advanced attachment for your iPod to add high quality recording capabilities. Dual XLR and 1/4-inch channels offer a solid range of recording options. A built-in mic and speaker are powered by their own battery, saving your iPod juice better used for listening to your genius later.

The Price: $100 this June

Belkin TuneBase and TuneCast More Formally Announced

Mark Wilson — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 00:01:00 EST

The product: The Belkin TuneBase FM and TuneCast Auto (the Tunebase with car charger) are Belkin's newest FM transmitters to send music from your iPhone and iPod through your radio.

The catch: While these new models are really just updates to what Belkin's been offering for years, there aren't really any catches since if you don't like the sound of FM, they offer a line out that can be used for a direct stereo connection.

Belkin claims "a majority of MP3 owners listen to MP3s in their car," so we guess these Belkin devices still have relevance in the market, which is sort of amazing considering how long ago Belkin started making FM iPod accessories.

The TuneBase FM will run you about $100 when it's available this April, while the TuneCast Auto is surprisingly less expensive at only $80 this February.

Belkin SOHO KVM Looks Nice, Switches One Monitor Between Four Computers

Jason Chen — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 22:35:51 EST

The Pitch: Belkin's SOHO KVM, which allows you to plug in a DVI or VGA monitor and four different machines to swap between workstations without showing your plumber's crack to everyone. $159.
The Catch: It doesn't look like it's from 1995, which is more than we can say for just about every other KVM we've ever seen.

Belkin's Conserve Surge Protector Helps You Conserve Some Cash

Sean Fallon — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 22:30:03 EST

Belkin's 8 outlet Conserve Surge Protector helps users reduce energy consumption and save a little cash on their power bills thanks to a handy remote control that allows you to manually cut the power to your individual devices. There are also two "always on" outlets for devices like set-top boxes and modems that typically stay powered up. Expect to see the Conserve Surge on store shelves in the summer of 08 for North America and the UK, with a fall launch set for Europe. Priced at $49.99. [Belkin]

Belkin's Desktop Internet Phone Negates the Use of a Computer for Skype Calling, Again

Haroon Malik — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:01:00 EST

The Brief: Belkin's Desktop Internet Phone allows Skype calls to be made simply, by plugging straight into a wired/wireless router or live Ethernet port. The internet phone can store 500 contacts and initiates automatic login to Skype when your PC is started.

The Catch: The $99.99 price tag is not too bad, but we have been here before (kinda), and we were a little uninspired. Time will tell. Check the official spec below:

Belkin Backpack and Ceylon Messenger

Mark Wilson — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:00:00 EST

Belkin is getting into the bag game with two of their newest products. The Beklin Backpack ($59) and Ceylon Messenger ($49....and not to be confused with the sometimes cute Cylon robots), both accommodate laptops up to 15.4" and feature water-resistant nylon shells along with soft inner linings that will keep you precious safe. Hit the jump for a pic of the backpack, and expect to see these on store shelves this month.

Belkin RockStar Shares Your Music With Five Friends (Now We Need Five Friends)

Jason Chen — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:00:12 EST

We seldom have the need to share what we're listening to on our iPods with more than one other person, but if you're having some sort of "party" that "people" are "attending," this Belkin RockStar might be good. It's just $20 and offers six ports—one input and five outputs—so you can split one signal to many sources. It's also cool because the five outputs can be toggled to input as well, so you can mix more than one signal together to form some sort of crappy impromptu DJ session. [iLounge]

Belkin FlyWire Wireless Video Cable Does 1080p Across Nothin'

Brian Lam — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 20:30:22 EST

We saw this Belkin wireless high definition video streamer in a blurry shot, but had little clue what it was. Months ago, we saw an impressive demo by Amimon of true HD over wireless, up to 1080p using a standard called WHDI, but it was nothing more than parts you couldn't buy. No more. Belkin and Amimon just got together to make this 6 input wireless video device, although details aren't that forthcoming, this is how it works:

One set enables uncompressed 720p and 1080i video to be transmitted over the 5GHz wireless band, using 20MHz of bandwidth and reaching distances up to 100 feet with the same quality as HDMI cable. Two of the chipsets ganged together send 1080p video wirelessly, using 40MHz of bandwidth.

Range is a theoretical 100 feet. Now we have no idea if these inputs are HDMI, component or other, but I'm guessing the WHDI interface is at least HDMI for the simplicity of handling AV through a single cable, and given the size of the box, you don't really have room for 6 sets of component cables using 5 jacks each. More as it comes, at CES. UPDATE: Looks like its an all HDMI affair. [Thanks tipster, previously on Giz: Belkin and Amimon]

Lightning Review: Belkin 2-in-1 HDMI Switch

Jason Chen — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:00:58 EST

The Gadget: Belkin's 2-to-1 HDMI Switch that's not only small and IR-remote controlled, it's also self-powered—meaning you won't have to take up another slot on your already crowded home theater power strip.

The Price: $54.99

The Verdict: Fantastic. We tried it on both an upscaling DVD player and a PlayStation 3 and noticed no signal degradation between this and plugging the devices straight into the TV. It supports up to 1080p, and can be toggled by a simple remote that has the numbers "1" and "2" on two buttons. It takes a second or two to switch from one input to the other, but unless you're toggling back and forth rapidly between a basketball game and a game you're playing on the PS3, you won't really notice. You can get a totally cheap switch from Monoprice for about $20, or another no-name remote-enabled switch for $30. Belkin's, however, comes with a lifetime warranty and a name like Belkin. [Belkin]

Send Photos From Phone to Web With Belkin Kodak Bluetooth USB Adapter

Wilson Rothman — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 10:24:39 EST

It's annoying that so many good (or terrible) photos are stuck inside your cameraphone. Belkin's F8T012 Bluetooth adapter gives your computer Bluetooth 2.0 for all your diabolical purposes, but it also specifically lets you wirelessly drop photos from cellphones, for printing, storing or uploading. This can often be a pain, especially when you're dealing with a phone from a "walled-garden" carrier. The good news is, a cursory glance of the phone compatibility list showed a lot of phones you might not expect, like the LG VX8700. And it gives you 100-meter range for $50, the same cost as Belkin's non-Kodak Bluetooth adapter. [Belkin]

Wi-LAN Sues Everyone and Their Mom (Really) Over Dubious Wi-Fi Patents

Matt Buchanan — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 17:00:47 EDT

Another day, another Wi-Fi patent entanglement. Today the ~~troll~~ plaintiff suing practically the entire industry is Wi-LAN, whose two patents—"related to Wi-Fi and power consumption in DSL products"—are apparently violated by anyone making or selling anything from routers to notebooks. The suit, launched in the capital of patent infringement suits, the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, targets Acer, Apple, Belkin, Best Buy, Broadcom, Buffalo, Circuity City, Dell, D-Link, Gateway, HP, Infineon, Intel, Lenovo, Marvell, Netgear, Sony, TI, Toshiba, Westell and 2Wire.

Fujitsu alone has been spared the lawsuit hammer because it caved and struck a deal over the summer to license Wi-LAN's whole patent portfolio—such transactions are why "patent holding" companies like Wi-LAN exist, not for anything productive. Be brave! Let loose the fury of your legal team to crush patent trolls into oblivion, since the patent office isn't doing much about it. The court system will ultimately thank you. [Reuters, Flickr]

Samsung Pimps the P2 PMP With Accessories and Services

hook — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:35:54 EDT

Samsung is launching the P2 PMP with content partnerships with Rhapsody, Napster and CinemaNow. There will also be an array of accessories ready, homespun hardware like speakers and wireless headphones, plus cases from DLO and Belkin. The strategy, which it calls MPfreedom, is acknowledgment that it takes more than a 3" touchscreen to compete with Apple. Here's a gallery of just some of the products and services available at launch. [Samsung]

Lightning Round - Belkin Sport Armband Plus

Mark Wilson — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:45:38 EDT

The Gadget: Belkin Sport Armband Plus. It's Belkin's newest iPod armband for exercising (we tested with 3G Nano).

The Price: $29.99

The Verdict: We're quite happy after a week of use with the Sport Armband Plus. Constructed of a high quality, wet suitesque material, the band sticks well to your skin—but absolutely perfectly after a few minutes of working out. The cord capsule looked like a complete pain in the ass, but a unique rubber case design allows you to flip the entire capsule open, wrap your cord, and flip it back within moments. Sure you get some glare on the screen and the Nano has a propensity to fit just off its center, but the Belkin is comfortable, functional and, need I say, fashionable? (Check it, along with sweet farmer tan).
The Catch(es): The case doesn't make room for the Nike+iPod sports kit. So users need to stick their iPod in upside down and leave a chunk sticking out. This is actually not that big of a deal since it leaves the iPod right side up for a runner's viewing (you need to wear the iPod upside down to read it on your arm, why this isn't Belkin's default positioning is beyond us). Confused? Exactly. You shouldn't have to think this hard. That's why you pay $30.

Given that many people interested in this product are also using the Nike add-on, we wish Belkin would release a Nike-compatible version.

The Verdict Part II: Pending the buyer is prepared for the above caveats, we'd recommend the Sport Armband Plus.

Belkin n52te SpeedPad, More One-Handed Gaming

Mark Wilson — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 10:38:40 EDT

The Belkin n52te SpeedPad is a sexy update of the cult classic Nostromo SpeedPad N52. Meant to replace the keyboard (and even mouse) for hardcore PC gamers, the controller offers 15 programmable keys, an 8-way thumb pad and full ergonomic support for extended play (a.k.a...a regular day in our life). But most of this was already standard, and the n52te boasts some nice improvements over its predecessor.

The new back lighting offering glowy blue keys that will turn your face to alien colors during late night frag sessions, and the addition of onboard memory that can store your settings and custom profiles, making the highly tweakable peripheral truly plug and play for tournaments and...uhh...showing off your skillz at Best Buy?

It's a bit too much of a commitment for our current setup, but glowing peripherals still haven't gotten old in our book. $70 this November. If you don't need the new settings, you can still pick up the cheaper original n52 for only like $30. Any readers use one? [belkin]

Belkin TuneBase FM Finds the Best FM Frequency

Jason Chen — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:30:07 EDT

Compatible with pretty much every Apple player except for the iPhone, this Belkin TuneBase FM has ClearScan technology, which searches all FM stations and finds the least-used one for you to broadcast your tunes on. It's $89, has a docking station, and plugs neatly into your car's cigarette adapter. Of course, even with the cleanest FM station, you're still going to run into some interference, which is why we still recommend the $10, 1995 method of using a tape adapter. [Belkin]

Belkin Releases iPod Classic and Nano SportBands, Cases

Jason Chen — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:40:21 EDT

Belkin's followed up Apple's announcements yesterday with a few accessory announcements today. Among them are the Sport Armband Plus for the iPod classic, nano and touch ($29), and the Sport Armband for iPod classic, nano ($19) and touch ($29). The Plus has a hook fastener and a cable capsule for earphone storage as well as a pocket for your keys.

There's also Belkin's Remix Acrylic Case for nano ($24), classic and touch ($29), the Remix Metal case for nano ($24) and classic ($29), the Leather Sleeve for nano ($24), classic and touch ($29), the Leather Folio for nano ($24), classic and touch ($29), and the Silicone for nano ($14), classic and touch ($19). [Belkin]

Belkin N1 Vision Wireless Router Hands On

Charlie White — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 14:27:12 EDT

Who knew a lowly router could be so sexy? We got our hands on one of these 802.11n draft 2.0 Belkin N1 Vision routers today, and it looks just as smooth, aerodynamic and downright alluring in our hands as it does in its publicity photos. We're especially attracted to its interactive network display, showing us exactly what's going on all over our local net—who's downloading what and how quickly—blasting out more info than we've ever seen on a consumer router. Nice.

In addition to that 802.11n draft 2.0, it's backward-compatible with an alphabet soup of Wi-Fi protocols including 802.11g, 802.11b, although it won't do A because it lacks 5GHz band support. And if all that wireless folderol doesn't suit your fancy, there are four gigabit Ethernet ports, too.

But just look at this thing! Its display has readouts for time and date, downloads, up/downloads, and also shows the client names of each computer with each one's download speed listed alongside. There's also a mode for viewing each client's usage over the last 24 hours. There's also a toggle for Guest mode.

One slight lameness: It ships without any passwords enabled, not even a default password for the doofuses. Could trip up a noob here or there. Oh, and switching settings on the router often requires a one-minute reboot. Kind of annoying. While it can work in DHCP mode, it can also function as a mere access point.

That said, its out-of-box experience is exemplary, and the setup is easy. Best of all, it's the goddamn best-looking router we've ever seen, making that Apple Airport Extreme look downright dumpy. To be fair, the Airport Extreme has that nice 5GHz N mode, but its looks can't hold a candle to this one's beauty and helpful functionality. [Belkin]

Using Belkin's Weird Powerstrips

Brian Lam — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 22:12:39 EDT

[Cue Fairytale music...]Once upon a time, a geek found that he had way too many gadgets, and too few AC outlets to use them all at once. A simple powerstrip would have been a easy fix, but because he considered himself a serious gearhead, he wanted *special* powerstrip.

The first one he tried was called the Compact, by Belkin, but had room on top for 4 small sockets, and on its side, 4 great big sockets standing vertically. It was terrific, but maybe too simple; and anyhow, there were actually two more powerstrips by Belkin that were more interesting. One, called the Clamp-On had a claw on it for being mounted on a desk. And one was huge, and had a cable organizer. One was very, very good, and one sucked so bad, it made the geek want to plug it into a heavy, heavy VCR, climb into a rowboat, and drop it to the bottom of the sea.

The "Clamp On" powerstrip with the claw on it had a box with a picture on it. The picture explained what the claw was for — attaching it to desks or 2x4 planks of wood! It appeared to have space for 4 small power plugs, and 2 large blocks. This could be useful for keeping outlets off the floor, and close to his work area. But alas, the stupid powerstrip's jaws were too wide to clamp onto a desk, with it's puny spring loaded rubberized and orange teeth. It sagged, and threatened to leap to the floor when the outlets were filled with hungry three-pronged plugs. And too narrow to clamp on a 2x4. It only fit on his weirdly shaped Swedish furniture. (Despite the photo on the box, it was limited to grabbing onto the edges of things no greater than 1.5-inches thick.) A real engineer would have used a vice grip, he thought.

The next powerstrip, Conceal was gigantic. It was at least twice as big a the other powerstrips. What a waste of space, the geek thought, as he thumbed the hard plastic case. There was a single lonely outlet on the side of this whale of a powerstrip. Strange. Where were the other outlets? Right after he'd finished this thought, his finger happened upon a button. Click!

The case opened up, and inside were 10 outlets — 6 little outlets, next to gold-plated coax, ethernet, and RJ-11 power filters, and room for 4 big blocks. All through the top of the case were nooks for cable routing, and a space to pass all the cords through the top. This was the perfect powerstrip for a livingroom, where the cables need to be tucked away nicely.

AND THEY LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER. THE END...FOR NOW. Dun dun DUUUUN.*
(I've been writing too many news pieces, lately. Had to break it up. Humor me.)

[Belkin]

Lightning Round: Belkin iPhone Headphone Adapter

Jason Chen — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 15:00:14 EDT

The Gadget: Belkin's iPhone headphone adapter, which lets you use any set of headphones that don't normally fit into the iPhone's recessed headphone jack.

The verdict: Works exactly as advertised. Fits all headphones with no audible sound quality loss.

The catch:

It's mf-ing gigantic. It's longer than the iPhone is wide, and can't really be used in tight pocket situations. But it does have a flexible center, which means you won't be able to break it easily.

The performance: Worked great on my car's tape adapter. No audible sound degradation when plugging a set of headphones into the iPhone and plugging through the Belkin adapter.

The price: $10.95

The recommendation: As the first and only headphone adapter for the iPhone out now, you've got no choice. You have to buy this if you want to use non-skinny headphones on the iPhone. The huge size doesn't matter in the car or at home, but sucks when you put it in your pocket.

[Belkin]

Belkin Wireless USB Adapters Forthcoming, Wireless Future Ahead

Charlie White — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:25:21 EDT

Here's the world's first pair of wireless USB adapters, the model F5U035 from Belkin that can either communicate with each other for PC-to-PC transfers, or each can act as a link to a wireless USB hub. Or, anywhere you might have a USB cable, these two devices could communicate with each other and eliminate all that wiring.

This is an unannounced product, and more info about it thus far is spotty, but its price will reportedly be $179.99 for this duo of wireless goodness. We're also hearing these dongles are certified for the wireless USB standard, making them compatible with upcoming wireless USB webcams, speakers and drives. So if you're looking to eliminate USB cables for distances under 30 feet, this might be something to consider. [Everything USB]

Belkin Wireless USB Hub Is All Dressed Up, No Place to Go

Charlie White — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 11:17:44 EDT

Belkin's bringing some seriously pretty design to its game, and here's another example: a four-port wireless USB hub that lets you roam freely with your USB devices. Belkin says this model F5U302 lets you transfer data at the full USB 2.0 speed of 480Mbps over a 30-foot range. This might come in handy for a printer that you'd like to locate off in a closet somewhere, but besides that, it seems like it has limited usefulness.

For instance, if you have Wi-Fi on your laptop and it's connected to your network, if there's a printer connected anywhere else on your network, you're already able to print wirelessly. Perhaps this wireless USB hub would be handy for connecting a USB hard drive wirelessly, and then you could roam around with your notebook while saving your data on that gigantic hard drive stuffed away somewhere.

We do like the design of this iteration of Belkin's wireless USB hub better than its predecessor, the F5U301 that began shipping earlier this year for roughly the same price of $199.99. If you can find a good use for this new design that has pretty much the same technology inside, it'll be shipping next month. [Belkin]

Belkin N1 Vision Router Makes 802.11n Sexier Than Ever With Built-In Screen

Matt Buchanan — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 10:38:53 EDT

Belkin's latest N1 series router, the N1 Vision, isn't just hands-down the smokiest 802.11n draft 2.0 router we've seen—it tries to one-up everyone else with a built-in LCD screen that displays info ranging from a bandwidth speedometer to the number of neighbors leeching your internet. At $200, the sexiness doesn't come cheap, but it can be yours later this month. More details after the jump.

•Interactive network display •Plug-and-Play "CD-less" setup •Operating Range: Up to 1,600 ft.** •Link Rate: Up to 300Mbps in 20/40MHz channel mode •Compatible with IEEE 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11n draft 2.0*, 802.3ab •Ports: WAN - 1 Gigabit port; LAN - 4 Gigabit ports •Security: Wi-Fi Protected Setup™; WPA™, WPA2™; 64-/128-bit WEP encryption; multiple SSID •VPN Support: PPTP; IPSec pass-through

Belkin N1 Vision

Belkin's see-through Acrylic Case is leaving ...

kevinhall2 — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 17:51:47 EDT

Belkin's see-through Acrylic Case is leaving iPhones with dings and nicks, as the iPhone sits loose enough inside that small rocks or hard bits can get inside. [tnkgrl Mobile]

Belkin's Three Truly Awesome USB Hubs Clip and Swivel

kevinhall2 — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 17:45:11 EDT

Belkin's three new USB hub designs actually do something useful on top of hubbin'. From left to right, there's the Swivel Hub and the Clip-On Hub, both with a planned price tag of $30, and then the Hub-To-Go at $50.

The Swivel Hub has 4-ports and, well, swivels, allowing you to position as you please. Looks handy in a tight space. The 2-port Clip-On will attach to any desk, bar, or surface you can get it around, as long as it's thinner than 1.25 inches. Last up, the Hub-To-Go offers you seven additional ports, three of which you can take with you. Out in August, they aren't up on the Belkin site yet, so keep an eye out—or the shelves, these sweet units should really stick out. [Belkin via PC World]

Belkin iPhone Accessories Arrive

Wilson Rothman — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 11:00:00 EDT

Belkin just announced its lineup of iPhone accessories. There are three cases we gave you a video peek at last week: a clear acrylic one for protection and use on-the-go, a sport armband and a leather wallet, each for a reasonable $30. But that's not all.

There are two stereo audio cables that resemble many that you certainly already own except for one key difference: They actually fit in the iPhone's mysteriously recessed 3.5mm stereo jack. The grand finale is an $11 adapter that lets you use the headphones and stereo cables you already spent your hard-earned dollars on.

If I sound a little grouchy about this brave new "made for iPhone" future, it's because I have several moving boxes full of stereo cables, headphones and adapters that would work just fine with the iPhone, were it not for that little, uh, design choice.

Belkin Cases and Cables Accessorize Your New iPhone
(Compton, CA) - July 2, 2007 - Belkin releases new cases and cables for the iPhone. A Sport Armband, and Acrylic and Slim-Fit Cases let you carry your iPhone anywhere and keep it fully protected. The Stereo and Mini-Stereo Cables allow you to listen to your tunes through your home stereo system or portable speakers.

AVAILABILITY
July 2007 with launches in Asia, Europe, and Australia to follow.

Acrylic Case for iPhone (F8Z172) - $29.99
• Thin, compact protection for pocket carrying
• Hard acrylic case for maximum protection
• Full access to hard keys, ports, and navigation screen
• Transformable kickstand/belt clip for video viewing

Slim-Fit Case for iPhone (F8Z169-BLK) - $29.99
• Premium, designer leather
• Removable belt clip
• Easy removal of your iPhone through mesh base
• Mesh base allows for full speaker volume
• Padded exterior for extra comfort

Sport Armband for iPhone (F8Z170-KG) - $29.99
• Machine-washable
• Included pocket for key or earbud storage
• Full screen protection and navigation access
• Breathable material for maximum comfort

Mini-Stereo Cable for iPhone (F8Z181-06-GLD) - $19.99
• 3.5mm plug to 3.5mm plug
• 6 ft. cable
• Chrome-finished connectors and nickel-plated contacts

Stereo Cable for iPhone (F8Z180-07-GLD) - $14.99
• 3.5mm plug to RCA
• 7 ft. cable
• Chrome-finished connectors and nickel-plated contacts
• Color-coated connectors

Headphone Adapter for iPhone (F8Z177) - $10.95
• Offers a fast and easy way to connect any 3.5mm stereo headphones
• Works with all Belkin cases for iPhone
• Comes with a Belkin Lifetime Warranty

Belkin Washable Mouse Can Withstand Water Sports

Charlie White — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 11:09:04 EDT

Okay germaphobes, here's the mouse for you. The Belkin Washable Mouse has a different approach to the scroll wheel, where it's changed into a "scroll pad" that requires just a touch to let you scroll vertically or horizontally. That makes it completely waterproof, so you can wash all those boogers off in the sink, and it'll come out smelling clean, fresh and good as new. Sheesh, you could probably take this little rodent underwater if you wanted to.

Never mind that washing it will just spread all that bacteria all over it, and it will probably be even more infested with creepy-crawlies after such a cleaning. But at least it will look sparkling. And after all, isn't the perception of clean more important than the reality? That alone is probably worth the extra few bucks you'll have to pay for this $29.99 mouse by the time it ships in late August. We're thinking that oddball scroll pad might take some getting used to, though.

Press Release [Belkin]

Class Action Belkin Lawsuit Might Get You a Full Refund

Adam Frucci — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 14:40:43 EDT

Got a Belkin router? Feel like getting some free cash? Well, a class action lawsuit settlement recently decreed that if you bought one of 37 Belkin products between October 13, 2002, and February 5, 2007, you may be entitled to a refund. Check the deets over at Consumerist and see if you qualify. –Adam Frucci

Some Belkin Wireless Owners May Be Entitled To Full Refunds [Consumerist]

Belkin Keeps Your iPod's Juice from Zapping Out with New Chargers

Louis Ramirez — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 09:15:51 EDT

If you're the type who's always looking for a spare iPod charger, keeping one of these in the office (or your car) can't hurt. The four new chargers (ranging from $24 to $49) can charge your iPod from your entertainment center (Power Dock AV), through your computer (Power Dock), through your car (Charging Kit for iPod), or the good old fashioned way—via a wall outlet (Power Adapter for iPod). – Louis Ramirez

Press Release

Belkin Site Makes FM Transmitters Slightly Cooler

Wilson Rothman — Wed, 23 May 2007 10:02:43 EDT

I hate FM transmitters for iPods, but I think Belkin's new service might make me hate them a little bit less. The company today launched a website that tells you what FM stations are the cleanest (i.e. least active) in your area. I'd like to see this combined with Google Maps, so that I'd know when and where to switch channels along an 800-mile road trip.

Of course, this is Belkin's tacit acknowledgment that the better bet would probably be frequency-hopping FM transmitters like the newly announced Kensington QuickSeek, which we told you about. Still, it should be helpful. My Best FM Stations provides various options in each vicinity, so that if pesky pirates ever pop up on the airwaves to feed you some truth, you'll have somewhere else to turn. – Wilson Rothman

My Best FM Stations [Belkin]

Belkin's iPod Cases Support Fight Against Breast Cancer

Jason Chen — Fri, 04 May 2007 21:28:28 EDT

If you or your lady were going to buy an iPod Nano armband or an iPod Nano case anyway, why not buy a pink one and support breast cancer research at the same time? These aren't pink because Belkin's trying to appeal to ladies (though that could be a side benefit), they're pink because of the breast cancer connection. Please, protect your iPod and the boobies. Especially the boobies. Steve Jobs doesn't come out on stage and whip a new one of those out of his pocket every year. – Jason Chen

Press Release [Belkin]