Tech Tools

Compiled by CIARA O'BRIEN

AirStash

From €115

AirStash is a useful thing to have around. Billing itself as part media server, part flash file storage, the device solves multiple problems for you. Not only does it allow you to share files direct from your own SD storage card, but it creates its own wifi network and can stream content to multiple devices.

That means you can share video, documents, photos, all through one device. No more cables or waiting for files to share via email and you aren’t hampered by trying to find a wifi network it can hook into to.

AirStash is slimline, too, and even has its own smartphone app.

[ firebox.com ]

iRig Mic Cast

From €30 (ex VAT)

The smartphone has already taken a shot at several of the once must- have devices – cameras, media players, games devices – but now it could take over sound recording.

IK Multimedia’s iRig Mic Cast is an ultra-compact microphone built for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. It plugs into the mini-jack, and can be used to record everything from podcasts and lectures to interviews and music.

It filters out the background noise, so you get some clean audio, and even comes with an adjustable table-top stand, so you can find the best position for your iOS device while you record.

[ irigmiccast.com ]

Archos Child Pad

$129.99

If you are tired of having to rescue your iPad or tablet from an overenthusiastic child on a regular basis, take a look at what Archos is offering. The Child Pad, which has just got its US release, is a 7-inch Android tablet designed for children, complete with Alvin and the Chipmunks theme.

If you can see past the cartoon characters, the tablet runs on the latest version of Android, Ice Cream Sandwich, and is powered by a 1GHz processor and 1GB of RAM. It has got preloaded content aimed at kids and some software that allows parents to keep control of what they’re looking at online.

[ childpad.us ]