Top 5 gadgets: USB GPS receiver

USB GPS RECEIVER, $159: Transform your laptop or netbook into a GPS navigator. The receiver has a magnetic base to let you get the best reception available and is powered by your computer's USB port. It covers a stack of geographical knowledge including latitude, longitude, altitude, velocity, satellite and receiver status. The receiver tracks up to 20 satellites at a time, re-acquires satellite signals in about 100 milliseconds and updates position data every second. It also allows you to view your path on Google Maps or Google Earth. Available from needelectronics.co.nz

BLOGGIE MHS-PM5K CAMCORDER: By Sony, $389. Catch all the action - and in high-def - with the Bloggie camcorder. This 5-megapixel camera can record video and take photos which can easily be transferred to your computer via USB. It packs a fun array of features such as face detection, image stabilisation and a 360-degree panoramic lens attachment. It has a four gigabyte memory card to take roughly 40 minutes of video or 1600 pics. It's a small and practical way to make sure you capture any memories on the move.
ALIEN DOORBELL: $47.90. Turn any visit to your room into an alien encounter with this fun Alien Doorbell. When someone seeks to enter it delivers a spaceship sound or one of two alien greetings. Sadly this out-of-this-world doorbell is confined to indoor use only. Great fun for alien fans and novelty doorbell lovers. Suitable for ages 5+ and available from JayCar electronics.
ATT023U USB TURNTABLE: By Akai, $399.95: This sweet wheel of steel is a great reason to fall back in love with your old records. It supports 33, 45 and 78 RPM playback with adjustable pitch control to allow for quick sound tweaks. It also has a direct recording function - allowing users to download straight to a USB device without having to use a PC. An awesome way to back up your vinyl collection or for budding DJs to save hot mixes. Check out digitalblue.co.nz
XV-BP1 BLU-RAY DISC PLAYER: By JVC, $699. Get the most out of your movies with this sleek blu-ray player. It pops your motion pictures at 1080p and 24FPS plus 1080p upscaling DVD - a fancy way of saying it makes your flicks look flash. It has BD-Live compatability and a USB connection. Another plus is its cool minimalist look which makes it look as sharp as your picture. For more information check out JVC.co.nz