International SIM Cards - A Must Have Travel Accessory

If you are travelling overseas there are some things that you need to pack- your passport, money, your credit cards and a spare change of underpants. A few years ago, the mobile phone was added to the must have accessories. After people got sick of exorbitant global roaming costs, the International SIM card has been added as a must have accessory for the smart traveller. I have outlined the benefits of an International SIM below.

• You can keep in touch cheaply and conveniently- If you don't own a mobile phone these days, people look at you weirdly. If you take your home mobile with you overseas you will spend a fortune. If you take your international SIM card with you.
• You can use the one number throughout the world- Before International SIM cards, people used to buy a prepaid mobile SIM card in every country that they travelled to if they were budget conscious. This could save you a fair bit of money when compared with your home mobile, but it is hard for people to keep in touch with you from back home. They may not know which country you are in and you are constantly having to contact everyone back home every time you change number. With an International SIM card, you will be contactable on the same number, no matter where you are in the world.
• You will save a fortune- This point is so important that I have to mention it twice. If you take an international SIM card with you overseas, you will save a fortune. If you use one of these instead of your home mobile, you will save up to 70%, and even more in some countries.

You really should do yourself a favour and get a hold of an International SIM card today.

Hamish Jones is the founder of Best Business Deals.

Check out his reviews of International SIM Cards by clicking on the below link (or copying and pasting it in to your browser.

http://www.bestbusinessdeals.com.au/international-roaming-sim-card-reviews

European Travelers Need an International SIM Card

International Roaming, also referred to as global roaming, is bloody expensive. Working in the telecommunications industry I cannot tell you how many times I have had people ring up and complain about their roaming bill. They state that they didn't use their phone that often but still end up with bills totalling thousands of dollars.

If you are travelling from Australia to Europe, you must ensure that you do not take your home mobile with you. You should buy an International SIM card and below I will explain why.

• You can 70% or more on your call costs- If you purchase an International Roaming SIM when you travel, instead of taking your Australian mobile with you whilst you travel through Europe, then you should save at least 70% or more. I am sure that you would rather keep your money in your pocket.
• Friends and family will easily be able to call you- If you are travelling, you will pay to make calls and you will pay to receive calls. Through most countries in Europe, you will not pay to receive calls. With the same number in all countries, you will happily answer your phones and your friends and family will easily be able to keep in touch with you wherever you are.
• You don't have to worry about finding a landline to call home- Many people who take their Australian mobile with them would prefer not to use it and would prefer to use a landline to keep in touch with people back home. International SIM cards are cheap to make calls so you will happily use them to call people back home.

If you are travelling to Europe, do yourself a favour to ensure that you can save your money and enjoy your holiday more! You will thank yourself for it and will not experience the misfortune of a huge roaming bill when you get back home.

Hamish Jones is the founder of Best Business Deals.

Check out his reviews of International SIM Cards by clicking on the below link (or copying and pasting it in to your browser.

http://www.bestbusinessdeals.com.au/international-roaming-sim-card-reviews

CECT T1 TV Phone Accessories - Cheap to Buy and Easy to Find

This new CECT T1 model with TV has become quite popular (some people call it the "i9 with TV.") No matter what you call it, this phone greatly appeals to folks who like the features of the iPhone clones but want real time analog television added in. Still, some people tell me that they hold back on this phone because they're worried that they can't get accessories for it. I often hear comments like "what happens when the battery dies?" or "what if I lose the charger?"

It may reassure you to know that as these phones have become more popular and mainstream, accessories have become widely available for them, even in the United States and in North America. You aren't limited to overseas vendors anymore and you'll likely have a decent amount of choices. And because there's no huge brand name or logo attached, you can typically get most of what you need for under $10-$20. Below, I'll outline some of the more popular accessories for the CECT T1 and tell you generally how much they cost.

Replacement Batteries For The T1: One cool thing about these clones is that, unlike the original, you can replace the battery yourself. You don't have to pay the manufacturer the $79 that is currently required. You can easily get replacement batteries for about $5-$7.

Set Up Instructions, WAP, Data, And MMS Settings For AT&T, T Mobile, Rogers, etc: Generally when you insert you sim card, the phone will work fine to make and receive calls. And, if you have a nice seller, sometimes they will ask which carrier you are using and enter the settings for you. If not though, you can easily get these often for around $2-$5. Depending on your carrier, you'll be taken through this process step by step until you're easily connecting to the web and sending MMS messages.

User's Manual: If this didn't come with your phone (or you lost it,) you can generally get the manual in just about any language for only a couple of dollars.

Internet / Data Sim Cards: Some people who buy these clones will just use them with their contract carrier. But, some really want to save money and will go with the pre paid or the pay as you go route. Go Phone sim cards do offer pretty decent data plans that you can buy (currently running $4.99 for 1GB.) But, if you're on line a lot or go to to large sites and / or download songs or movies, you might get by cheaper by looking at the unlimited data sims. They're often about $25 and they last for a month. They typically have unlimited talk, messaging, and Internet. You will need to change your number each month, but since this phone is dual sim, most people will use one sim for talk (and keep the same number) and the other for MMS, making calls, SMS, and the web.

Additional Memory: This phone can hold up to 8GB. You can add on via sd card for very cheaply, usually around $10.

Skins / Cases: Probably the most popular cover for these is the colorful silicon cases / skins. However, there are more traditional cases available in leather and in a more professional style. There generally run $3-$5. There are also a couple of sellers that will allow you to upload photos or designs for a customized case.

Car / Home Chargers: The chargers on these phones are typically USB cords that have the outlet plug or the car cigarette lighter plug that slides onto the end. You can generally pick these up for about $5. Often, you'll get both the outlet and the car accessory in the package.

USB / Data Cords: You can transfer memory on this phone via Bluetooth or via USB. Sometimes, the USB cords will come with the chargers. But, you can pick up an extra for just a couple of dollars.

Screen Protectors: The little plastic covers that stick the phone and protect it from smudges are very popular and often run less than 99 cents.

To obtain more information and real time rock bottom pricing on all of the CECT T1 accessories, (user's manuals, data cards, skins, etc. mentioned in this article), please visit http://t1tvphoneaccessories.com/

For much more info on the CECT T1 TV phone, (video, photos, full specs, etc.), please visit http://i9-plus-tv-phone-review.com/

3 Top Tips on Picking the Best International SIM Card

No longer are people doomed to an exorbitant global roaming bill if they want to be contactable by mobile whilst overseas. The advent of the International SIM card allows people to stay in touch cheaply and conveniently- you don't have to search around for a landline or internet connection. You can answer your mobile without being scared.

However, different companies have slightly different offerings and you have to do some research to make sure that you pick the right card for you. Here are some things to do.

• Check out International SIM card reviews- The first thing you need to do is a Google search and find reviews of the SIM cards that you are comparing. Don't just take the word of the company website, find out about the experiences of other users.If too many people are having a bad experience, chances are that the card is not up to scratch.
• Make sure you compare the rate of different cards- Different International SIM companies have different rates. Make sure you compare their rates to find out which card has the best rates in the countries that you are traveling to.
• Make sure the International SIM card works in countries you are visiting now, and countries that you may visit in the future- Another thing to remember is that your SIM card will most likely not expire. Make sure that you choose an International SIM card that works in the countries you are visiting now, and in countries you may visit in to the future.

International SIM cards are a great invention that can save you a fortune whilst traveling. Make sure that you pick the right card for your needs by following the three tips that I have outlined above.

Hamish Jones is the founder of Best Business Deals.

Check out his reviews of International SIM Cards by clicking on the below link (or copying and pasting it in to your browser.

http://www.bestbusinessdeals.com.au/international-roaming-sim-card-reviews

Buying and Installing SIM Cards on the IClone CECT P168

The CECT P168 (aka iClone) is probably the best selling iPhone knock off of all time. There are many reasons for this, but one of them is the fact that this phone has dual SIM slots which means that you can have two phone numbers, two plans, or two different networks at once. However, sometimes I get questions about how to install the cards or which will work with this phone. I'll address these things in the following article.

How To Install Or Insert The Sim Cards Correctly On the P168: I apologize if this sounds basic, but I can't tell you how many emails I get from people who tell me that something is wrong with the phone when in fact they haven't installed the cards right.

Many people will automatically and intuitively insert both cards with the gold side facing down. Although this seems perfectly logical, if you do it this way, only one of the cards are going to work. Actually the gold sides should be facing opposite directions, so that they were be touching each other if they weren't inserted.

What I'll call card number one goes into the slot on the top of the phone closest to the phone's battery cover. In this slot, the gold side should be facing down and the corner that is angled (rather than smooth) should be on the right hand side.

What I'll call card number two (which is on the bottom closest to the battery) goes with the gold side facing up and the corner that is angled should be facing the left side.

If you have the cards set up this way, but something still isn't working, take a look at your dual sim settings. Make sure that both slots are open and that the dual function is highlighted. If it is, the last thing that I would suggest is to make sure both cards are active and have been activated.

Which Sim Cards Will Work With The iClone?: Basically, all activated GSM sim cards are fair game (this is especially true if you have the quad band version of the phone.) Examples are T Mobile, AT&T, Fido, Cingular, and Rogers. Also, prepaid sim cards works with this phone just fine as well including T Mobile To Go and AT&T's Go Phone (you'll just want to activate the card before you place it into the phone.)

Now, these basic cards are going to work just fine for talk and texting via SMS. However, if you want to surf or browse the web and send videos or photos via MMS you're going to need data included onto your card. If you have a plan, your network can set this up for you. But, prepaid cards work too. AT&T's Go Phone allows you to pay via the KB or to buy a package (an example is 1MB of data for $4.99.)

If you're just a casual user, this may be all you need. However, if you want to go to large sites like You Tube or Face book, then it may be more cost effective to get an unlimited card. You can often get T Mobile data cards for about $20, give or take a few bucks. These cards also include talk, text, and MMS. The cards expire after around a month. But at $20 per month, you can afford to pick up another when they run out. And, this is much cheaper than trying to pay for KB if you use a lot of data.

Now, in order for the Internet to work, your WAP, MMS, and data settings must be set to correspond with your carrier. There are many manuals available to help you with this.

For resources for set up instructions that provide WAP, Internet and MMS settings for the CECT P168 iClone as well as pre paid data sim card options and other accessories ( like cases, chargers, skins, etc.) please visit http://p168accessories.com/

For much more information about the latest versions of the CECT P168 iClone (video, photos, specs, pricing, etc.) please check out http://cectp168review.com/

Right Round Ringtone

Right Round by Flo Rida is one of the hottest tracks in the world right now. The Right Round Ringtone is currently a top ringtone in North America and is the perfect choice for your cell phone. The track is rising up music charts around North America and the music video is one of the top clips on YouTube right now.

Right Round is an electropop and hip-hop song by American hip-hop artist Flo Rida and features singer Kesha. The track was produced by Dr. Luke. It is the first single from Flo Rida's second studio album R.O.O.T.S., which stands for "Routes Of Overcoming The Struggle" and is expected to be released on April 7, 2009. The song was released to radio on January 20th, 2009. Right Round is based around Dead Or Alive's 1985 Billboard Hot 100 hit single "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)". The single is also streaming on Flo Rida's MySpace page and official website. It can be purchased on iTunes and is climbing up the US iTunes Top Songs Chart.

Right Round has already debuted at number 74 on the Billboard Hot 100 Single Chart. The track first appeared on the Billboard Pop 100 chart debuting at #96 and has since risen to #32 after gaining more radio airplay. In Canada, Right Round debuted at #75 on the Canadian Hot 100 and is currently one of the most frequently played singles on Canadian radio.

Right Round is becoming an incredibly popular single and the Right Round Ringtone is definitely one of the hottest ringtones in the world. If you're looking for a new ringtone for your cell phone, the Right Round Ringtone is a perfect choice.

Click Here to Download the Right Round Ringtone for your phone - get the Right Round Ringtone by Flo Rida now!

iPhone Means Big Business For Developers - Of All Sizes

Since the launch of Apple's App Store in July of 2008, more than 500 million apps have already been downloaded. As of January 2008, the average daily app download rate had surpassed the 5 million mark, up from 2.5 million the month prior. This has created substantial returns for many frenetically coding, garage-dwelling developers. Recently, Lim Ding Wen, a 9 year old boy from Singapore, created an application for the iPhone called Doodle Kids. To date, Wen's application has garnered 4,000 downloads. Users create pictures by dragging a finger across the screen. Even celebrities are attracted to the iPhone fervor. Ben Stein recently released a game of his own, Ben Stein: It's Trivial. The game features more than 1,200 trivia questions. uStream's application announced a download volume of 113,000 in just 24 hours. It is this variety and juxtaposition of small developers to more seasoned players that makes this market trend so compelling.

To provide greater context, Apple's App Store allows external developers to submit their own proprietary games and applications to this considerable distribution channel. While not all applications/games are accepted, many are finding a place in the app store. To date, the app store houses over 15,000 applications and counting.

There is much that accounts for the popularity of these apps and casual games. Let's start with the device itself. The iPhone offers a rich user experience that heretofore exceeds that of any competing mobile device. The platform allows for exquisite graphic presentation and dynamic user interaction. The multi-touch user interface as well as the motion sensitive accelerometer make the iPhone a serious gaming platform.

The popularity of these apps is further aided by the functionality of the apps and games themselves. With the expansive capabilities the iPhone provides, users find apps that satisfy any variety of needs and games that are both pleasing to the eye and fun to play. More importantly, the cost point of many of these games and apps is well- more than affordable. Many apps require payment ranging from $0.99 to $5.00, while many others are free. Given the greater economic climate, this is critical to market success. It is safe to assume that many are seeking a reprieve from the rigors of a failing economy and simple, affordable pleasures will likely continue to grow in popularity. With the touch of a digital button, you can get lost in Sudoku for the day.

Arthur Ebeling is the CEO of Kami Media Technologies, http://www.KamiMedia.com He has been featured through CNN, NBC, AOL News, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Success Magazine. He may be e-mailed at: ajebeling@kamimedia.com.

Arthur Ebeling,
CEO-
Kami Media Technologies, Inc.
http://www.KamiMedia.com
ajebeling@kamimedia.com

Review of Evernote For the iPhone and Desktop PC

Evernote is an iPhone or iPod Touch program that is meant to replace all those little scraps of paper that you usually write notes on. However, it raises the bar because not only can you write notes to yourself, but you can also use it to store photos, voice notes, web pages or even just snippets from web sites.

To get started with Evernote, you sign up for an account, verify your email address, and start snipping. You then download the desktop version of the software for the Mac or PC. You can create notes with the desktop application and sync them with your online account.

The iPhone version also allows you to create notes. If you have an iPod Touch which doesn't always have access to the internet, you can save your notes for later when you have wireless internet access. At that point, you can sync your pending notes with your online account and then with your desktop program. This gives you a convenient way to ensure that you have a back-up of all your notes.

This is an excellent replacement for Google notebook, which is being discontinued. Evernote has many more features than Google notebook does. Since Google's announcement that notebook would be discontinued, Evernote has stated that they will develop a feature to allow you to import your notebook notes into Evernote. You can also import your notes from Microsoft OneNote 2007.

Evernote is free to sign up and use , and I have found myself using it frequently for keeping track of things I want to buy, writing blog posts when I'm offline, and writing little to-do lists.

You'll find Evernote by going to http://www.evernote.com. I highly recommend it.

Donna Knight is a System Consultant and Website Promotion Specialist. She has built over 300 websites and helps new site owners promote their site cheaply. For tips that will help you save money and save time when marketing online, visit Internet Marketing Tools and Reviews blog at http://www.DonnaKnight.com . Copyright (c) 2009 Donna Knight.

The Top Things to Look For in an International SIM Card

More and more people are choosing to take an International SIM card with them when they travel overseas. These people are the smart ones. You should not use your home mobile phone when you are travelling overseas this will cost you a fortune.

It must be noted that there are a number of companies out there selling SIM cards for you to use whilst travelling- some of these companies are better and more reputable than others. The purpose of this article is to give you some advice on what to keep an eye on when you are choosing your International SIM.

• A prepaid SIM with some starter credit- One of the major problems with using your home mobile is you do not actually know what your bill will be until you get home. These bills can potentially run in to thousands of dollars. To avoid these unnecessary and scary surprises, you should ensure that you use a prepaid International SIM card. You should also ensure that it comes with some free credit up-front.
• A huge reduction in your costs- It may seem obvious, but why would you want to buy a SIM card that is not going to save you any money. Make sure that the website you are buying the SIM from has its rates displayed so you can work out whether you are actually going to save any money.
• Wide coverage throughout the world- Before you buy an International SIM card, you should check the countries that it will work in. you need to buy a card that will work in a variety of countries that you will travel to. If you do not check the countries where the SIM will work, you could find yourself having to buy numerous SIM cards and your friends and family may find it hard to keep in touch with you.

Hamish Jones is the founder of Best Business Deals.

Check out his reviews of International SIM Cards by clicking on the below link (or copying and pasting it in to your browser.

http://www.bestbusinessdeals.com.au/international-roaming-sim-card-reviews

Tips on Guarding Your Mobile Phone Against Virus Infection

Viruses include but not limited to: Cabir, Commwarrio, Trojan horses, Mabir amongst others are capable of wiping out every information on a SIM OR MEMORY CARD and infact cripple a phone completely.

Some smart phones are very vulnerable because of the way they are designed. Some of these new and emerging types of viruses will attack any phone that is capable of running Java applications and not necessarily "feature-packed" smart phones.

Please be mindful of the following tips.....

* BLUETOOTH: Disable your Bluetooth when not in use so that unauthorized persons cannot have access to your phone and so cannot harm your phone.

* HIDDED OR NON DISCOVERABLE MODE: If you must put your Bluetooth on, put it in any of these modes and remove on need to use basis. This way, devises not paired with your phone cannot find it. If your phone is invincible, it can't be vulnerable. Please before pairing; find out the other devices' name first to avoid pairing with the 'enemy'.

* UNKNOWN SOURCES: Do not take or install programs, applications , attachments, photos /images , videos, sms or other 'transferables' with impunity. Take only from trusted sources.

* INFRARED: If your phone is equipped with infrared or beam, receive only from trusted sources.

* DOWNLOADS: This should only be done from manufacturers' official mobile site. You must be careful because HACKERS can disguise as 'friendly'. If you do not know the source, neither open nor download.

* Viruses can also be installed MANUALLY. It is therefore not advisable to lend your phone to strangers. Play safe, you never can tell.

* ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE: There are softwares that can detect and neutralize threats to your phone. Download and install only from trusted sources.

I have seen phones completely messed up by these pests. Take the necessary measures now and you will have no regrets later.

Nnamdi Uyanna ia a communications expert. He runs a mobile phone blog where you can learn great tips on taking care of your mobile phone and having it last longer. Visit the blog at http://www.usefulmobilephonetips.com

Apple iPhone Accessories

Apple iPhone accessories are made to further maximize the use of the features provided by the famous iPhone unit. Some accessories are specifically made to provide protection and storage for this hi-tech, expensive gadget.

The most useful accessories of the iPhone include acrylic case which is made of clear plastic and is lightweight enough to wear on the hip, the dream gear i.sound roadtalk which is the first iPhone-compatible car kit and works for music via cable and for phone calls via Bluetooth, travel charger for use in the car, sound isolating earphones and music phone adapter.

Earphones are a great accessory to wear with your iPhone. When looking for a pair, choose one that can fit well inside your ear. Good quality earphones should be able to reduce ambient noise and provide excellent bass and treble clarity.

Another good thing to have is the 3G iPhone dock, which is capable of doing USB charging, syncing and audio out at the same time. Some find this gadget expensive at $49 dollars or so, but its usefulness far outweigh the cost, so investing on this is worth it.

Considering the money you put in to buy a 3G iPhone, you must see the need to protect it from scratches. There are thin, transparent films you can place over the LCD of your phone. There are also several iPhone skins you can choose for your iPhone. These skins come in a variety of colors and designs, depending on your personal choice and preference.

There are other various iPhone accessories which are being released in the market. Each accessory provides a unique way to enjoy the use of the iPhone. Your Apple 3G iPhone is already a great thing to own in itself, but accessorizing it makes it even more fun and interesting, and somewhat lengthens its life.

If you are looking for more information about Apple iPhone accessories, or other technology visit our site for great shopping ideas.

Apple 3G iPhone Accessories

Apple's 3G iPhone is one of the latest breakthroughs in technology. Whether you are a first-time user or an old user of this high-tech gadget, you will definitely look forward to own some accessories that are specially made for your 3G iPhone.

There are many accessories to go for, but if you are a wise buyer and a wise user at the same time, you will basically desire only those accessories that have practical uses, such as a crystal case to protect your phone with.

The crystal case is one of the top Apple 3G iPhone accessories. It will keep the iPhone from scratches due to everyday use. It comes with a clear design which makes it perfect for professionals and executives who do not like complicated or bold designs on their gadgets. An alternative case for your Apple 3G iPhone is the leather case. There is one made of premium lamb skin hide, and another of premium cowhide. There are many other designs available to suit your taste, of course. There are also super sleek designs for the super trendy users of iPhone.

Next in line is the Car Holder for iPhone. For those who are busy driving or for those people who travel a lot, this accessory is perfect because it will keep the iPhone in its place even while you are driving. The Car Holder for iPhone is especially designed for iPhone owners because it enables them to periodically check if someone is calling them without having to go through their bags, which can be a risky thing to do while driving. ?

Other 3G accessory must-haves are the iPhone 3G dock, which has 3-1 features (USB charging, syncing, and audio out), and the Apple USB power adapter. Retailing at only $29 each, these 3G accessories make using your iPhone more convenient.

If you are looking for more information about Apple 3G iPhone accessories, or other technology visit our site for great shopping ideas.

iGo Everywhere Power 3500 Charger

The iGo Everywhere Power 3500 Charger has been available for a while now, but it still provides a useful service for the charging of small handheld devices. Although this is not a standalone battery backup (it requires mains power or equivalent for function) it does solve the problem of carrying a multitude of power cables for each and every handheld device.

The iGo Everywhere Power 3500 Charger is supplied with the iGo Everywhere Power adapter (smooth metallic blue box about the size of a pack of cards), iGo DualPower adapter (for connecting devices), Electronic Device Input Cord (for connecting devices), Standard Wall Outlet AC Power Cord, Auto/Air EmPower DC Power Cord and a zippered carrying pouch (in black).

From either the main adapter, car cigarette lighter adapter or air adapter (for aeroplanes that utilise this power interface) the iGo Everywhere Power 3500 Charger can charge up to two devices (sharing a maximum of 15W). In order to interface with every different type of mobile device, PDA, mp3 player etc. iGo provide a series of iTips (interchangeable between iGo products) that are compatible with each different type of device. These have to be purchased separately to the main device.

iGo Everywhere Power 3Connection is simple to any device (providing the correct iTip has been bought), if one device is to be charged, the electronic device input cord is used, and if two devices are used, the iGo DualPower adapter is required. We found that during charging the main unit tended to heat up slightly. There is a blue LED that lights when the main unit has power, however, there is no indication on the unit to let you know when devices are fully charged.

In summary, the iGo Everywhere Power 3500 Charger is a viable alternative to carrying handfuls of seperate peripheral chargers for each and every device you use on a day to day basis. If you want backup power on the move, when a power supply isn't available it is worth considering a power backup device such as the Powertraveller Powermonkey eXplorer, iGo powerXtender battery operated charger or Freedom Mobile Power Portable Charger (MiniUSB).

The iGo Everywhere Power 3500 Charger is available from ExpansysUK.

James Youell is the founder and one of the editors for Computer Takeaway a website dedicated to independently reviewing PC and mobile communications hardware and software.

eCharger Canvas Satchel Bag

The last solar power backup device we reviewed was the Powermonkey eXplorer by Powertraveller which really opened our eyes to the concept of mobile device charging using sunlight. More and more products of this type are entering the market in different forms and with different price tags.

Enter the eCharger canvas satchel bag a fairly funky looking canvas bag with one big difference, a large solar panel is prominently placed on the front of the bag behind a durable thick plastic screen. The bag itself is very sturdy: manufactured in thick canvas in a lime green/white colour scheme and has a thick white leather strap for carrying around, again of good quality.

The basic concept behind the bag is that the on board solar panel charges up four AAA rechargeable batteries which can in turn be used to provide backup power or charge up a variety of devices, such as mobile phones, PDAs, handheld gaming devices (PSP etc), MP3 players and cameras through a 6V outlet. The bag we were sent came with pretty much every type of tip for each of these devices so it would seem that only those with very exotic devices would have to source alternative power tips. Also included is a standard mains charger so that devices can still be charged even if there is low or no light.

eCharger-canvas-bag-content - We tested the device using a couple of Nokia phones as well as an iPod classic and found that the solar panel performed well as long as sufficient light levels were available, which during the last few weeks in the UK winter has meant outside. Due to the cold weather we were unable to test charging times, but from our estimation based on our testing and calculations from the included data sheet we predicted that depending on the rechargeable batteries used in the charger (we used 1300maH) we could charge the average mobile phone around four times if the rechargeable batteries were fully charged, definitely useful for regular travellers.

We think the eCharger canvas satchel bag would make an excellent travel companion whether just for students or regular travellers, providing backup power whenever required as long as there is sunlight. eCharger bags retail for around ?40-50 bringing them within the grasp of most peoples budget for travel accessories and the bags come with a standard 1 year warranty.

James Youell is the founder and one of the editors for Computer Takeaway a website dedicated to independently reviewing PC and mobile communications hardware and software.

Freedom Mobile Power Portable Charger (Mini USB)

In previous reviews we have looked at portable power solutions in the form of the Powertraveller Powermonkey eXplorer and the iGo PowerXtender, both of which provide power on the go to a variety of handheld devices through the use of power tips (or "monkeynuts") specific to the specific device type.

In this review we are looking at the Freedom Mobile Power portable charger which rather than try to cater for everything is tailored specifically for devices that utilise a mini USB port for charging. This does slightly limit its' market, however, all BlackBerry and HTC devices tend to use this form of power interface and a lot of mobile phone manufacturers are starting to follow suit.

The Freedom Mobile Power device is manufactured out of aluminum with a black gloss finish and has dimensions of 14 x 38 x 84 mm, making it easily small enough to carry alongside a phone/PDA. The lid of the device is magnetic and can be attached to the base whilst in use so that it is harder to lose. The battery at the heart of the Freedom Mobile Power device is an 1800mAH lithium polymer battery capable of charging HTCs/BlackBerrys up to two times, equivalent to roughly 9 hours of extra talk time. Charge time of the device itself if roughly four hours through a mains power point and take slightly longer when charged from a computer USB port. A series of three LEDs report on the current charge state of the device (Orange - charging, Green - fully charged, Red - charging phone) which make usage very clear and simple.

In summary, this is another very useful device especially designed for business HTC/BlackBerry users spending a lot of time travelling. It appears durable and well manufactured and is a great contender in the portable power solutions market.

James Youell is the founder and one of the editors for Computer Takeaway a website dedicated to independently reviewing PC and mobile communications hardware and software.