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PRODUCT SHOWCASE Two new Christmas presents (for yourself?) from Tecsun Radios Australia PowerTran High Power USB supply/charger from Altronics With so many devices now operating or being recharged by USB ports, you’re almost certain to run out of options one day. This 120/240V desktop charger from Altronics not only charges up to 5 device at once, it uses a new technology called “Charge IQ” to allow the unit to charge a connected device at the fastest possible speed. It identifies the device and delivers the maximum power to charge the device in the shortest time possible. This generally applies to iPhones after generation 4, iPads after generation 3, the Samsung Galaxy range of phones and tablets and the HTC One (M8/M7). It is expected that many newer devices coming onto the market will also have Charge IQ capability. The 73 x 73 x 34mm charger (Cat M-8880) has over-current, over-voltage, over-temperature and overload protection. Charging rate can be up to 7.8A (<at>5V). A standard 3-pin, 230V power cord is included – no USB cables are supplied as it is assumed any USB Contact: device will have its own cable. (USB Altronics charging ports are standard female (All stores and resellers) Tel: (1300) 797 007 type A). Price is $49.95 Web: www.altronics.com.au New Hafco WoodMaster Band Saws If you’re in the market for a new band saw to cut your timber for the workshop, Hare & Forbes Machineryhouse have just introduced three new Woodmaster models. The range includes a 255mm 0.5hp, 310mm 1hp and 360mm 1.5hp and only require 230 V single phase power. All include a generous cast iron work table that can tilt to 45° to minimise flex when cutting heavier timbers and are nicely finished with curved blade guards. The sturdy fabricated steel saw frame and stand provides plenty of rigidity throughout the machine. They’re fitted with a LED light on a flexible arm, ball-bearing blade guides, safety magnetic switch and emergency stop for additional user protection, rear dust collector port, slide-out dust drawer for collecting more dust and as well as two blade speeds, perfect for cutting a wide range of timbers. An optional circle cutting attachment fits directly onto the adjustable top blade guide for further versatility. These band saws are packed full of essential features great for every wood worker and have a starting price of $451. Contact: Hare&Forbes Machineryhouse Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth Tel: [Sydney] (02) 9890 9111 Web: www.machineryhouse.com.au 48  Silicon Chip a Two of the most popular portable receivers in the Tecsun range have just had major makeover, making them even better value for money.   Tecsun PL-680 It looks very similar to the PL660 but has been upgraded in several key performance areas, all of which make listening even more pleasurable: • Improved sensitivity • Improved synchronous detection • No soft muting • Measured AM performance identical (even though specs suggest slightly inferior!). The radio features PLL synthesis and can tune the AM and FM broadcast bands, SW from DC to Daylight (OK, 1171kHz to 29.9999MHz), longwave from 100-519kHz and, somewhat unusually in a portable radio, the entire aircraft band from 118 to 137MHz. With 2000 memory presets, you’re never going to forget that elusive station again! While the PL680 can be used with four standard AA alkaline batteries, it will also accept NiMH cells, which can be charged via the fitted USB socket. A quality leatherette carry case, ear buds and other accessories are included. For keen shortwave listeners, you’ll notice the difference in the PL-680. Price is $199.00 Tecsun PL-365 “In the shirt pocket” style receiver, similar to the PL-360 but with updated specs and performance. It’s a DSP receiver, which means it has digital signal processing to greatly enhance the radio’s sensitivity, selectivity, signal-to-noise ratio and anti-interference. It covers the AM and FM broadcast bands and shortwave from 1171kHz to 29.9999MHz. One of the things that Tecsun Radios Australia report from customers is that they really like the “long, thin” style which easily slips into a shirt pocket. Like its predecessor, it measures just 159 x 53 x 26mm. It too takes either alkaline AA batteries or NiMH rechargeables (in this case three), with the latter rechargeable via the USB port (either a dedicated charger or the USB port on your PC). A “wetsuit”-type pouch is included for protection (note that it is DEFINITELY not waterproof!). Also included are a pair of ear buds plus two antennas – a high-sensitivity plug-in AM type which slots into a socket on the top of the radio and a long-wire antenna which clips onto the Contact: PL-365’s whip Tecsun Radios Australia antenna. Price 24/9 Powells Road, Brookvale NSW 2100 for the PL-365 Tel: (02) 9939 4377 is $89.00 Web: www.tecsunradios.com.au siliconchip.com.au