For that techie who has everything
Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving when shoppers descend upon early opening stores, kicks off the traditional start of the holiday shopping season next week.
Or maybe you prefer Cyber Monday, after Thanksgiving, when online bargain hunters elbow their way onto shopping Web sites.
Either way, promotions for computers, mobile phones and other devices likely will vie for your attention.
Well, how about something a little different? Here are a few practical, and not-so-practical, unique tech gift ideas.
Exergen TemporalScanner
Why it's cool: This infrared thermometer can be used by simply running it across a child's forehead to read their temperature in about 2 seconds.
Price: $49.99
Where to get it: Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Costco, Babies R Us and Sam's Club
Web site: www.temporalscanner.com
Sony Mylo
Why it's cool: Mobile Internet device that keeps teens and tweens connected via free Skype calls, instant messaging, Google Talk and Yahoo Messenger and more. It uses a Wi-Fi connection without the long-term contracts.
Price: $199 to $299
Where to get it: At Sony Style
Web site: www.sonystyle.com
Nyrius LT12 Global Talking Translator
Why it's cool: The globe-trotter in your life could use this hand-held device that cross-translates 12 languages with 8,400 phrases. It also has a built-in alarm clock, phone book and world time display.
Price: $49.99
Where to get it: Staples, Skymall
Web site: www.nyrius.com
Schlage Link
Why it's cool: Using any Internet-enabled computer or mobile phone, homeowners can remotely monitor and control access to their home.
Price: $199 for device and starter kit; $12.99 monthly subscription for access
Where to get it: Fry's Electronics
Web site: link.schlage.com
Designer Mouse
Why it's cool: Get a computer mouse that looks like a ladybug, a chili pepper, a brain or any number of things.
Price: $35 and up
Where to get it: www.seekingdesigners.com/patsaysnow or Mousenvy.com.
BookSwim
Why it's cool: National online service that rents paperback and hardcover books without the need to purchase. It also offers digital gift cards.
Price: Starts at $9.95 a month
Where to get it: BookSwim
Web site: www.bookswim.com
Scented laptop
Why it's cool: ASUs F6V compact notebook comes in a variety of colors and scents, like pink with a flower scent, green a grass scent and blue with ocean scent.
Price: From $1,049
Where to get it: Computer, electronics stores
Web site: www.spotlightpcfashion.com/asusf.html
Human Touch HT1650 Robotic Massage Chair
Why it's cool: This chair is like having an electronic masseuse that includes heater panels and acupoint detection to automatically locate acupressure points.
Price: $4,799
Where to get it: Abt Electronics, Shop.com
Web site: www.abt.com; www.shop.com
CatGenie
Why it's cool: This self-flushing, self-washing litter box replacement that works like a cat box, acts like a toilet and cleans like a modern washing appliance. It uses permanent washable granules that don't need changing.
Price: $329
Where to get it: Cat Genie, Amazon, Petco, PetSmart and other stores
Web sites: www.catgenie.com
Lulu Leash
Why it's cool: This dog leash lights up and can be seen for more than a quarter of a mile away for those nighttime dog walks.
Price: $29.95 to $39.95
Where to get it: Alto of South Florida Inc.
Web site: www.lululeash.com