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keychain

True Utility Keychain TelePen

technologyEdward Kiledjian

The last essential keychain tool I want to talk about it the True Utility Telepen.  It's a stainless steel telescopic pen that shrinks to 50mm when closed and extends to a comfortable 115mm. When fully open, it is easy to hold and write with and closed you'll hardly know its there. Like my 2 other keychain tool recommendations, this is an everyday carry (EDC) type of item that you will find useful. Think of how many times you struggled to find a pen?

You won't write a multi-page letter or novel using this pen but for simple tasks like taking short notes, signing a check or filling out a form, its perfect. 

The kit comes with 3 refills but you can always cut a bic refill once you run out.

Swiss+Tech Utili-Key 6-in-1 Keychain Multi-Tool

Review, technologyEdward Kiledjian

You can't use what you don't have and yesterday I wrote about my favorite keychain attached USB key. Today I want to share with you my favorite keychain multi-tool. The Swiss+Tech Utili-Key is a very portable, keychain attached multi-tool that:

 

  1. Flat Screwdriver
  2. Phillips Screwdriver
  3. Micro-Sized Screwdriver
  4. Straight Blade Knife
  5. Serrated Blade Knife
  6. Bottle Opener

 

 

Demand a little more and you can graduate to its slightly more capable older brother the Utili-Key XT 8-In-1. Which has:

  1. Flat Screwdriver
  2. Phillips Screwdriver
  3. Micro-Sized Screwdriver
  4. Nail File
  5. Nail Cleaner
  6. Wire Cutter
  7. Wire Stripper
  8. Bottle Opener

 

I checked the prices on amazon and the difference between the 2 items was about $3. You won't built a shelter or survive a hurricane with this but it will be there when you need it. I find you use these tools much more when they are always on you.

I had a chance to test the 8 in 1 for 2 weeks and found it well made. Since it's stainless steel, it cleans up easily and resisted scratching fairly well (even though it was in the same pocket as my keys and coins). In that 2 week period, I encountered about a dozen situations when the tool became useful. Can't beat its functionality for the price.

LaCie PetiteKey the ultimate USB key for professionals

technologyEdward Kiledjian

We've all heart the old saying "the best camera is the one with you" referring to the benefits of having smartphones with cameras. The same can be said for USB keys. A USB key left in your desk drawer or home office is of no use. This is why I love the PetiteKey product from LaCie.

It is the newest iteration of their immensely popular imakey launched in 2009. Compared to its older brother, the PetiteKey is 30% smaller. The PetiteKey is waterproof to 100 meters and LaCie even says the little guy will survive a spin in the washing machine. This little bundle of joy comes in 8/16/32 GB flavours. My only complaint is that is is USB 2.0 (wish it had USB 3.0 support).

I saw the 8GB version on Amazon for $11.99.

Ultimately this is a tool that will always be on you and therefore will be ready to serve when needed.