Tech Watch: LDCs; Drive Multiplexer; Ruggedizing Handhelds

A look at new products and technologies available to solution providers by leading and emerging vendors

An LCD With Style

If you want an LCD monitor that makes a statement, check out the SyncMaster 970P from Samsung. In a break from the traditional stand, the monitor's bezel is mounted to a four-way, triple-hinge stand so users can pivot, adjust height and tilt to almost any angle. Controls are located on the base rather than the bezel. But the appeal of this LCD is more than cosmetic. It offers a contrast ratio of 1,000-to-1 and a 178-degree viewing angle. Stealing a design page out of Apple's book, this 19-inch gem is both beautiful and functional. From its softly glowing power button to its satin aluminum case, this monitor is a great example of both form and function. In its native 1,280-x-1,024 resolution, the color is crisp and the contrast sharp.

Samsung SyncMaster 970P, www.samsungusa.com Price: $549

Helping Drives Multiply

Looking to make five SATA drives appear like one big one? Addonics' new 5x1 eSATA Port Multiplier lets systems builders and VARs accomplish exactly that. The Port Multiplier is designed to fit inside the company's recently released Storage Tower, an aluminum-drive enclosure that enables builders to install multiple drive interfaces as well as SCSI enclosures and optical drives. The five drives can be set up as individual disks, RAID or JBOD devices. By combining multiple Port Multipliers with Addonics' four-port eSATA controllers, systems builders can attach as many as 20 SATA drives to a computer via one controller.

Addonics 5x1 esata Port Multiplier, www.addonics.com Price: $89

a gadget for your gadget

Many companies are reluctant to deploy mainstream PDAs for a rather mundane reason: They're not rugged enough for those who use them in harsh outdoor conditions. Now a company called OtterBox eliminates that issue with its 1900 PDA case. Devices such as Palm Treos and iPaqs fit snugly in this hard, plastic container, providing full functional use of the PDA while protecting it from water, chemicals and dirt, among other damaging elements. It's ideal for any type of field worker and health-care organizations; for example, a physician could use it in an operating room.

OtterBox 1900 PDA case, www.otterbox.com Price: $99