First came Belkin’s recall of TubeBase products last week involving a washer which may cause an electrical short circuit when plugged into a vehicle’s cigarette lighter adapter. This time the company is recalling the Belkin SurgeMaster Surge Protector due to the following issue:

“The molding of the plastic 360 degree rotating plug, which allows for easy cord movement, can crack or detach from the plug assembly, posing a shock hazard to consumers.”

Belkin has received seven complaints about cracking of the plug molding which luckily has not resulted in any injuries thus far.

Affected models are the SurgeMaster Surge Protector, models F9G930-10, F9G930v10, F9G930-10-W and F9G930-10-SN, all manufactured in 2003. Grey models F9G930-10-GRY and F9G930fc10G-CL are not a part of this recall.

If you have one of these units, you should stop using it and contact Belkin for a replacement unit. For more information, contact Belkin toll-free at 800-952-1465 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.belkin.com/recall

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Technorati Tags: Belkin SurgeMaster Surge Protectors Product Recall

“The washer is a circular, black, plastic unit situated at the tip of the TuneBase’s cigarette lighter adapter. After a rigorous investigation, Belkin has determined that under certain conditions of heat, humidity, and prolonged periods of power-on (e.g., when the TuneBase is left plugged in overnight), some units with the washer have shown potential to smoke or pose a risk of fire.”

As a result, Belkin is recalling all TuneBase products purchased by consumers on or after April 1st, 2009. The following model numbers are affected by the recall:

• F8Z441
• F8Z442
• F8Z176
• F8Z441ea
• F8Z442ea
• F8Z176eaBLK

If you own one of the above models, then you can do the following:

• Contact Belkin to participate in its TuneBase exchange program that will provide eligible customers with a TuneBase replacement, free of charge
• Learn more here: www.belkin.com/tunebaserecall
• Customers without Internet access can call 888-262-1020

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Technorati Tags: Belkin TuneBase Direct with Hands-Free, TuneBase FM with Hands-Free, and TuneBase FM with ClearScan, Product Recall

The Belkin “Conserve Surge with Timer” is a new surge protector with a built-in automatic timer designed to help minimize power consumption by automatically shutting off six outlets after 11 hours.

Why build an automatic timer into the surge protector? Simple – most of us are pretty lazy. We all know we should completely shut off all of our gadgets and devices but how many of us are willing to unplug every single device from the outlet? With the Conserve Surge with Timer. laziness is addressed through the use of an automatic timer.

The timer controls six “auto-off” outlets which turn off devices after 11 hours of operation. What about devices that need constant power you say? No problem – the surge protector comes with two always-on outlets too.

Finally, Belkin packages a one-touch on/off button wired to the surge protector that resides on your desktop – allowing you to control the six auto-off outlets. The Belkin Conserve Surge with Timer is available now for a price of $34.99.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin, Belkin Conserve Surge with Timer

DualFit for the Cure:

• Adjustable dual-fit system allows for best fit on any arm; maximizes sizing
• Clear screen protector allows for easy navigation
• Key pocket for convenient storage while at the gym or outdoors
• Reflective material for use during nighttime
• Hand-washable
• MSRP of $29.99

Grip for the Cure:

• Textured exterior provides better grip
• Form-fitting construction allows charging while in sleeve and minimizes bulk
• MSRP of $29.99

Both cases will be available in the middle of October and are compatible with iPod touch 2nd generation models.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin, Belkin DualFit for the Cure, Belkin Grip for the Cure, iPod touch cases

If you’re looking for a convenient way to share your printer on a wireless network as well as backup/share data from all connected computers on the network, then you’ll want to check out the newly announced Belkin Home Base.

Home Base works within an existing wireless network and allows networked users access to a single shared printer. In addition, users can connect external hard drives to one of the four USB ports to save/share music, pictures and videos. Home Base will automatically back up connected computers periodically to a connected external hard drive.

The device also comes with a small social feature – allowing users to automatically share pictures directly to a Flickr or Picasa account.

Folks with gaming consoles will also be able to wirelessly access media stored on an attached hard drive.

Home Base comes with 4 USB 2.0 ports, supports 802.11 b/g/n, and supports WPS security for convenient wireless setup.

You’ll be able to pick one up now for $129.99.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin Home Base

Want to use a headphone other than the one Apple provides for the current iPod shuffle? Now you can with the new Belkin Headphone Adapter for iPod shuffle. Not only can you use any headphone with the new adapter, you’ll also be able to control the functions of the shuffle since the player doesn’t come with any controls itself.

The Headphone Adapter will allow you to:

• Adjust volume
• Skip tracks
• Toggle between playlists
• Hear a song title

Belkin’s Headphone Adapter will be available at the end of July in North America and in the middle of August in Europe, Asia, and Australia for $19.99.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin Headphone Adapter iPod shuffle

Belkin FlyWire – we hardly knew ya. Actually – we didn’t know you at all! Belkin announced late last week that given the current “state of the economy”, the “retail price of $1499 would be out of line” (ya think?). Hence, Belkin has decided to halt production of the FlyWire wireless HD transmitter. Guess we’ll just have to stick with a single HDMI wire for now (or several for some).

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Technorati Tags: Belkin FlyWire, Wireless HDMI

Wireless Comfort Mouse (F5L030) – $29.99

• Shaped to fit your hand
• USB dongle doubles as a perch to hold mouse in place when moving from room to room
• All-terrain optical engine to mouse on any surface
• Power-save mode puts mouse to sleep after 8 minutes of inactivity
• Compatible with Mac computers
• Includes 2 AAA batteries
• Colors: Midnight Blue, Pitch Black, Fuchsia, Candy Red

Bluetooth Comfort Mouse (F5L031) – $49.99

• Shaped to fit your hand
• built-in Bluetooth technology
• Scroll wheel offers vertical and horizontal scrolling
• Features a laser optical sensor to mouse on different surfaces
• Compatible with Mac computers
• 2.4GHz Bluetooth wireless
• Colors: Black and White

Retractable Comfort Mouse (F5L051) – $19.99

• Shaped to fit your hand
• Retractable cable prevents knots and tangles
• Features an all-terrain optical engine to mouse on any surface
• Compatible with Mac computers
• Colors: Pitch Black, Midnight Blue, Fuchsia, Candy Red

The new mice will be available in the following dates in the following places:

Americas by the end of this month.

Europe, Asia, and Australia by the end of July

The retractable comfort mouse will be available in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia in August

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Technorati Tags: Belkin, Wireless Comfort Mouse, Bluetooth Comfort Mouse, Retractable Comfort Mouse

Here’s what you need to know about the new cases:

Grip Cases

All Grip cases offer “rugged layer of silicone” designed to protect the iPhone. Each case comes with different textured designs which affect style, color, and grip. You can charge the iPhone while the phone is in the case.

Grip Ergo (F8Z460) – $29.99

• Ergonomic design lets you text, game and surf the Web comfortably
• Contoured ridges provide maximum gripability of your iPhone
• Colors: Caviar, Chili Pepper, Indigo

Grip Two-Toned Vector (F8Z474) – $29.99

• Colors: Caviar/Clear, Caviar/Hot Pink, Caviar/Bright Blue

Grip Vector Duo (F8Z472) – $19.99

• Colors: Light Graphite/Indigo, Hot Pink/Chili Pepper, Caviar/Translucent White

BodyGuard Cases

The Belkin BodyGuard cases utilize a combination of polycarbonate and rubber materials to help protect and increase grip on the iPhone. The cases also offer full access to the dock connector, the buttons, and of course, the touch-screen display.

BodyGuard Hue (F8Z455) – $24.99

• 2-piece polycarbonate design snaps together to create 2 shades of color
• Colors: Light Graphite/White, Hot Pink/White, Bright Blue/White, Indigo/Light Graphite, Garnet/Light Graphite, Citrus Yellow/Light Graphite

BodyGuard Halo (F8Z461) – $29.99

• Colored rubber track adds color and makes it easier to grip the case
• Colors: Clear/Caviar, Clear/Hot Pink, Clear/Chili Pepper

BodyGuard Cush (F8Z470) – $29.99

• Interior rubber lining prevents from everyday scratches and scuffs
• Colors: Caviar, Hot Pink, Garnet

Micra Flex (F8Z469) – $24.99

• Slim, form-fitting polycarbonate and rubber design provides protection without added bulk
• Unique U-Flex design offers quick and easy removal of iPhone from case
• Features a highly gripable exterior surface
• Provides full access to connector, buttons and iPhone screen
• Colors: Black, Hot Pink, Garnet

Leather Cases

Finally, if you’re looking for a lil leather, check out these cases.

Leather Sleeve with Pull Tab (F8Z465) – $29.99

• Pull tab lifts iPhone from case for quick access and easy navigation
• Cutout window allows for easy viewing of time and caller ID

Leather Sleeve with Clip (F8Z467) – $29.99

Leather Folio (F8Z462) – $29.99

Leather Horizontal Holster (F8Z463) – $29.99

Leather Slim Fit with Pull Tab (F8Z466) – $29.99

Formed Horizontal Holster (F8Z464) – $29.99

DualFit (F8Z459) – $29.99

You can see more by going to http://www.belkin.com/ipod/

Technorati Tags: Belkin Grip Cases, Belkin BodyGuard cases, Belkin Leather Cases, iPhone 3G S Cases

Belkin announces two new TuneBase products for the Apple iPhone and iPod – the TuneBase FM and TuneBase Direct. Both products allow you to pick up phone calls on the iPhone in your car, hands-free.  When a phone call comes in, both TuneBase products fade out the music allowing you to pick up the call. Simply press a button on the TuneBase to answer the incoming phone call. The call’s audio comes through the car stereo system.

The TuneBase FM features:

• Push-button call pickup and speakerphone
• ClearScan technology which automatically searches for the clearest FM frequency to transmit over
• Transmit audio on multiple FM channels from 88.1 MHz to 107.9 MHz

The TuneBase Direct features:

• Push-button call pickup and speakerphone
• 3.5 mm cable for cars with built-in auxiliary inputs

The TuneBase FM has an MSRP of $89.99 while the TuneBase Direct has an MSRP of $69.99.

Technorati Tags: Belkin, Belkin TuneBase Direct Belkin TuneBase FM, Apple iPhone, Apple iPod

I never would have imagined writing about a surge protector but the Belkin Conserve Energy-Saving 8 Outlet Surge Protector (model BG108000) is certainly one worth writing about. The surge protector comes with a wireless remote that allows you to easily turn off the protector – thereby completely shutting off all electricity to your devices.

Why is this important? Most modern electronic devices still consume some amount of power even though they’re technically “turned off” (typically known as “standby mode” or consuming “standby power”). To truly cut off power to these devices you either need to unplug the device, or shut off the surge protector altogether. Problem with most surge protectors – they’re placed in hidden away places making it hard to turn off the protector. AND hence.. we’ve got the Belkin Conserve Energy-Saving Surge Protector (that’s one long name eh?) with an included remote control making it incredibly easy to turn off devices. The protector comes with two “Always-On” outlets just in case you have devices that need to stay on all the time.

The Belkin 8 outlet surge protector has an MSRP of $49.99. Definitely will have to consider this one.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin Conserve Energy-Saving 8 Outlet Surge Protector

Belkin introduces a new notebook case designed to hopefully alleviate some of the pains of airport security. The new Belkin FlyThru laptop case isolates the notebook on one side of the case, allowing agents to clearly see the notebook through a clear window. This allows you to keep the system within the case while going through the security checkpoint. According to Belkin, the case was developed specifically to meet guidelines set forth by TSA. All you need to do is unzip the case and lay it flat on the screening belt. Other features of the FlyThru include the following:

• Smart design isolates laptop for easy screening
• Secure compartments organize accessories
• Designed with minimal metal zippers and hardware for screening clarity
• Durable with ample storage, ideal for busy professionals on the go
• Fits most standard and widescreen laptops up to 15.4″

Not to sound negative.. but somehow I get the feeling TSA agents will still insist that the notebook be removed from this case.. I guess I’ll have to see it to believe it.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin FlyThru Laptop Case

Sport Armband Plus with FastFit for iPod nano 4G (F8Z376-NBY), iPod touch 2G (F8Z363-NBY), iPod classic 2G (F8Z388-NBY) – US: $29.99

• Removable sleeve with low-profile belt clip and key pouch
• Lightweight water-wicking materials
• Includes Cable Capsule for added headphone-cord management
• FastFit system for easy one-handed fastening
• Compatible with Nike+
• Clear screen protector allows for easy navigation
• Hand-washable

Sports Armband for iPod nano 4G (F8Z377-KG), iPod touch 2G (F8Z384-KG) – US: $19.99; iPod classic 2G (F8Z389) – US: $24.99

• Adjustable dual-fit system allows for best fit on any arm-maximizes sizing
• Clear screen protector allows for easy navigation
• Key pocket for convenient storage while at the gym or outdoors
• Reflective material for use during nighttime
• Compatible with Nike+
• Hand-washable

Clear Acrylic Case for iPod nano 4G (F8Z381-CLR) – US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z368) – US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z393-CLR) – US: $29.99

• iPod style and form shows through
• Click-wheel protection
• Sleek, form-fitting design minimizes bulk

Remix Metal for iPod nano 4G (F8Z381) – US: $24.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z393) – US: $29.99

• Metal faceplate
• Slim design minimizes bulk
• Click-wheel protection
• Available in red, silver, pink, and black

Sonic Wave Two-Tone Silicone Sleeve for iPod nano 4G (F8Z379) – US: $19.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z364) – US: $24.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z391) – US: $29.99

• Two-tone, laser-etched design
• Form-fitting construction allows charging while in sleeve
• Available in the following two-tone colors: black/infrared, cool gray/grapefruit, pink/translucent white, black/blue, black/green, black/white, blue/orange

Sonic Wave Silicone Sleeve, 2-pack for iPod nano 4G (F8Z380-BKW-2) – US: $19.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z367-2) – US: $19.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z392) – US: $19.99

• Textured exterior provides better grip
• Packs available in black/white, pink/purple, blue/orange

Simple Silicone Sleeve, 2-pack for iPod nano 4G (F8Z401-2) – US: $14.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z400-2) – US: $19.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z409) – US: $19.99

• Form-fitted to minimize bulk
• Available in black/black, black/blue, pink/translucent, red/gray

Leather Sleeve for iPod nano 4G (F8Z375) – US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z372) – US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z386) – US: $29.99

• Sleek design allows for easy pocket-, bag-, or hand-carrying
• Soft microfiber lining protects iPod from scratches
• VELCRO®
• brand closure keeps iPod secure
• Available in black and pink

Leather Folio for iPod nano 4G (F8Z374) – US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z373) – US: $29.99

• Soft microfiber lining protects iPod from scratches
• VELCRO®
• brand closure keeps iPod secure
• Available in black and pink

Leather Pull-Tab Holster for iPod touch 2G (F8Z362) – US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z387) – US: $29.99

• Elastic tab automatically retracts for quick and easy removal from case
• Sleek design minimizes bulk

Eco-Conscious Folio for iPod nano 4G (F8Z395) – US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z396) – US: $29.99

• Form-fitting leather construction with natural felt interior
• Vegetable-tanned rather than chemically stained
• Available in black and walnut

Eco-Conscious Sleeve for iPod nano 4G (F8Z383) – US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z369) – US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z394) – US: $29.99

• Form-fitting leather construction with natural felt interior
• Vegetable-tanned rather than chemically stained
• Available in black and walnut

Screen Overlay, 3-pack for iPod nano 4G (F8Z382) – US: $12.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z371) – US: $14.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z385) – US: $14.99

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Technorati Tags: Belkin, iPod nano 4G, iPod touch 2G, cases

Dell is taking a page out of Apple’s business model by introducing a new line of bags and accessories dubbed “Designed for Dell”. These are products designed by third party manufacturers that complement the latest Dell PCs such as the Studio laptops that were recently introduced. This is Dell’s attempt to create an industry similar to what we’ve seen with Apple’s iPod/iPhone product line – third party products that accentuate the capabilities of the main product. In this case, we’ve got the new Dell Studio notebook which is just begging for matching case designs, cool looking speakers, hard drives for more storage space, and funky mice. Current manufacturers participating in the Designed for Dell program include:

• Belkin: Backpacks and messenger cases
• Built: Computer sleeves, cargo bags and portfolios
• Creative Labs: Headphones and speakers
• Iomega: Portable hard drives
• Logitech: Mice
• Swiss Gear: Backpacks
• Targus: Messenger cases and accessories bundles

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Technorati Tags: Dell, Designed for Dell, Belkin, Built, Creative Labs, Iomega, Logitech, Swiss Gear, Targus

If you need a portable recording device for interviews, lectures, recording notes, creating podcasts, then you’ll want to check out the new Belkin GoStudio device. Designed as an accessory to the Apple iPod, the GoStudio features two built-in omnidirectional microphones and records audio directly to your iPod in 16 bit 44kHz format. Other features of the Belkin GoStudio include:

• Built-in speaker allows users to play back recordings
• Two combo microphone inputs (XLR and 1/4 inch)
• 3.5 mm mini-jack microphone inputs
• Master level control
• Direct monitor volume control
• Tripod mount

The Belkin GoStudio will be available sometime in September/October for a price of $119.99.

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Technorati Tags: Belkin GoStudio, Podcast recording,

CushTop Hideaway (F8N081) – $64.99

• Designed for comfortable laptop use on the couch, bed, or floor
• Stores power supply inside
• Made of durable microfiber

Laptop Cooling Hub (F5L025) – $49.99

• 4 USB ports add a convenient connection to other devices
• Works with laptops up to 17″

Laptop Cooling Lounge (F5L028) – $39.99

• Extra width and adjustable height make it more comfortable to work with your laptop on your lap
• Cooling fan keeps the heat from your laptop off your legs
• Works with laptops up to 17″

Laptop CoolStrip (F5L033) – $19.99

• Unique product design offers non-powered laptop cooling
• Works with laptops up to 17″
• Washable with mild soap and water, dishwasher-safe

Technorati Tags: Belkin, CushTop Hideaway (F8N081), Laptop Cooling Hub (F5L025), Laptop Cooling Lounge (F5L028), Laptop CoolStrip (F5L033)

First off, Belkin announced several new products tailored for the ASUS Eee PC and mini-notebooks/netbooks in general – three types of cases and two types of mice.

The cases are as follows:

Mini Laptop Quilted Case (F8N085) – US: $19.99

• Quilted texture protects laptop from light wear and tear while on the go
• Lightweight
• Made with durable polyester
• Fits 7″ laptops

Mini Laptop Carrying Case (F8N084) – US: $24.99

• Protects laptop anywhere you go
• Includes detachable strap for carrying ease
• Outside pockets give extra storage room for accessories
• Made with durable neoprene

Neoprene Sleeve (F8N082) – US: $12.99

• Light and durable sleeve protects laptop from minor scratches en route.
• Stow it inside your own bag
• Made with durable neoprene

The two mice are as follows:

Wireless Travel Mouse (F5L017-USB) – US: $19.99

• Perfect for taking on the road–no messy cables to get tangled, and more comfortable to use than your laptop’s track pad.
• Features 3 programmable buttons: micro switch, mechanical scrolling wheel, and depressing function on wheel
• Features on and off switch to save power when not in use
• Works with USB
• Compatible with Windows(R) 2000, XP, and Vista
• Compatible with Mac OS(R) X v10.4

Retractable Mouse (F5L016-USB) – US: $14.99

• Retractable cable stays untangled and out of your way
• Powered via USB cable
• Compatible with Windows(R) 2000, XP, and Vista
• Compatible with Mac OS(R) X v10.4

No Tags

Slim-Fit Sleeve for MacBook Air:

• Insert the MacBook Air and flip the top over to secure it in place
• Made of high quality neoprene for protection and cushioning
• MSRP of $39.99

Leather/Neoprene Sleeve for MacBook Air:

• Asymmetrical zipper gives you flexibility to access the notebook from the top or the side
• Made of high quality leather and neoprene
• MSRP of $49.99

Neoprene Sleeve for MacBook Air

• Designed to keep the MacBook Air snug and protected
• MSRP of $49.99

Vertical Sleeve with Strap for MacBook Air:

• Slim-Fit Strap gives you flexibility to carry your MacBook Air in your arms or on your shoulder
• Eliminates the need to put your Sleeve in another bag
• MSRP of $49.99

Technorati Tags: Belkin, MacBook Air, Sleeves

Creating audio podcasts might not get much simpler than this folks. It’s the new $99 dollar Belkin Podcast Studio – a portable, battery operated device which allows you to create high quality recordings wherever you go. Simply dock the iPod into the Podcast Studio and begin recording full length audio episodes, interviews, or short clips directly onto the iPod. Once you’re finished with the recording, connect your iPod with your computer and have your newly created content uploaded straight to iTunes.

Features include:

• Built in microphone and speaker for playback
• 2 Channels – XLR and 1/4 inch
• Battery powered

The Podcast Studio is compatible with the 5th gen iPod, iPod classic, and iPod nano – 3rd gen. You can expect to find the Podcast Studio in June of 2008 for an MSRP of $99.99.

Technorati Tags: Belkin, Podcast Studio, CES 2008, Podcasts

TuneBase FM for iPhone and iPod – $99.99

Features include:

• Features ClearScan technology
• Includes line-out for use with car stereo inputs or cassette adapter
• Pro setting optimizes audio and boosts volume
• Transmits audio wirelessly on multiple FM channels from 88.1 MHz to 107.9 MHz
• Multiple cradles fit any docking iPod
• Flexible neck offers convenient easy repositioning of your iPod

TuneCast Auto for iPhone and iPod – $79.99

Features include

Technorati Tags: Belkin, TuneBase FM for iPhone and iPod, TuneCast Auto for iPhone and iPod, CES 2008