Powerpack a godsend

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 11/02/2005 (7592 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

XANTREX has managed to combine so much functionality into its Xpower Powerpack 400R with AM/FM radio that we are at a loss as to where exactly to begin. For one thing, the in-car unit offers the equivalent power of an electrical wall unit. It is also the ultimate in-car emergency kit, and it features an integrated digital alarm clock and an AM/FM radio. The Powerpack offers enough amps to jump-start most vehicles, and it includes a built-in 250-psi air compressor capable of inflating spare tires. It also has a built-in light to provide illumination for roadside emergencies. About the only thing this device doesn’t do is steer, pump gas and flip the bird at bad drivers. It is exactly the type of product you’ll pack in your trunk and forget about until you need it — and then be ecstatic that you have it when you do. $220; visit www.xantrex.com for details.

–CanWest News Service

iPod goes motoring

YOU have to hand it to the folks at Apple. Armed with just a wing, a prayer and hundreds of millions in marketing dollars, they have turned the iPod into a cultural phenomenon, with scores of manufacturers developing accessories for the device. But when Clarion — arguably the hippest aftermarket electronics manufacturer — develops the VRX755VD, a DVD multimedia system headlined by iPod inter-activity, you know Apple’s little offspring has come of age. Featuring a flip-up seven-inch screen, the unit can attach to any iPod to transmit songs through car stereo speakers. The on-screen display even resembles the iPod’s navigation-enhancing intuitiveness, thus cleverly associating Clarion’s product even closer to the real thing. Bundled with a remote control and powered by leading audio bells and whistles, this is one of those devices that is so cool it will be featured on Pimp My Ride in no time. US$2,000; visit www.clarion.com for details.

–CanWest News Service