UC Davis Information & Educational Technology

Bits & Bytes

All I Want For Christmas

Posted on December 8, 2004

Dear Santa:

This year, instead of simply telling you what I want for Christmas, I've created an easy-to-navigate wish list that won't leave you wondering, “What in the world will she do with a 7D 6MP Digital SLR with AF 28-100mm f/3.5-5.6?” You will find my list neatly divided into categories based on the three things you always tell me to do.

Study more!

I know you're afraid I don't study enough. With these items, I'll be studying at home, at the library, on the Quad, on the bus, and even while I eat!

  • 800 MHz PowerPC G4 Laptop
    While at the Bookstore Computer Shop the other day, I realized that the space-hogging, energy-chugging machine you bought me three Christmases ago is no longer up to speed. Really! Check out the UC Davis Recommended Minimum Computer Configurations Page at http://computerownership.ucdavis.edu. And a new computer doesn't have to be expensive Dad, ehr, Santa; many companies offer students educational discounts.
  • Flexible Computer Keyboard
    This thin, lightweight, waterproof, washable, and virtually indestructible keyboard is perfect for the college lifestyle—I can wash it when I spill coffee on it, and even roll it up to take with me on-the-go.
  • Sony MSU-WR1 Wireless Optical Sphere
    Besides looking really cool, this wireless mouse is small, has no tangle-prone cord, and works on any surface--without a mouse pad. Even better, I can take it on trips and get work done on the road.

Exercise!
To avoid (or recover from) the “Freshman Fifteen,” “Sophomore Six More,” “Junior Avoid the Gym,” and “Senior Sell the Scale and Go to Krispy Kreme,” here's what I need to help me stay in good physical condition:

  • iPod mini
    Sometimes all I need to get pumped up about exercise is a little music, but it's hard to run with a boom box on my shoulder. The 3.6 ounce iPod Mini fits neatly into a pocket or clips onto a waistband, and I can get all my favorite songs easily, cheaply, and legally by downloading iTunes onto my computer. One minute I'm studying to Mozart; five minutes later, I'm pounding the pavement with Led Zeppelin blasting in my ears.
  • FitSense-1 Speedometer
    Since I'll be working out more, I'll need a way to monitor my progress. This device, made for walkers and runners, has a foot sensor that transmits information to a wrist monitor. During a workout I can track my pace, heart rate, and the distance I've covered; once home, I can transfer the data to my computer, see charts and graphs of my workout, and set new goals for myself. It's like having a personal trainer—without all the yelling.

Have fun!

The following are just for fun, for the times when I need to forget how hard I've been studying.

  • iDuck
    Disguised as an ordinary rubber ducky, this is really a portable, pocket-sized hard drive that stores music, photos, videos, and documents. This handy gadget plugs into a computer's USB port, so I'll never have to bother copying files onto a CD or disk; the only hassle will be remembering not to take it into the tub.
  • Soundbug Speaker
    The size of a mouse, this tiny speaker attaches to any surface and connects to stereos, CD and MP3 players, handheld games, camcorders, and laptops. It's perfect for the weekends when that neighbor who screams, “Turn that racket off!” is out of town.
  • TV-Wristwatch
    With this 1.5 inch screen, I'll never miss another sporting event, news bulletin, or Trading Spouses rerun again.
  • Precision Mini Digital Camera
    With this thumb-sized camera around my neck, I'll catch every great photo opportunity and use the video recording feature to prove that the dog really does eat my term papers.

I know you lie awake at night worrying about me, but maybe after this Christmas you'll finally believe me when I say I'm being good.

Love,

Your Studious, Active, and Fun-Loving Daughter

Disclaimer: This article represents one student's wishlist. Neither IET nor UC Davis endorses these products.

This column is provided to you by the student writers of Information and Educational Technology. For questions and comments, please contact ietpubsjr@ucdavis.edu.

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