Accessories Briefs

By TWICE Staff -- TWICE, 5/4/2009

Gefen Intros Extender

CHATSWORTH, CALIF. — The Gefen HDMI-over-RGB extender is designed to let high-definition video and audio in the expanded HDMI v1.3 format travel over legacy RGBHV cable. It said to be effective at distances up to 330 feet, so users can place displays and projectors in “optimum locations” while the A/V source is in a secure, rack-mounted enclosure, said Gefen.

High-definition visuals at 1080p FullHD are reportedly delivered over RGBHV cable along with 7.1 digital surround sound audio. All expanded HDMI v1.3 features are supported, including deep color, lip sync, Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio formats, Gefen said.

“HDMI, HDCP and CEC pass-through compliance make the HDMI over RGB Extender a reliable performer for those upgrading to full digital connectivity, even while using a legacy cable infrastructure,” the company said in a statement.

It is currently shipping for a $599 suggested retail.

Duracell Debuts USB Charger For Cars

BETHEL, CONN. — Duracell introduced earlier this month a USB charging port that can be plugged directly into a car's DC socket.

It also debuted three different connector's for the company's My Pocket Charger.

The Duracell USB charger ($14.99 suggested retail) is said to provide 5-volt DC power to charge mobile devices. It features a blue indicator light that will glow when the USB opening is ready to charge. Availability is expected in May.

The My Pocket Charger ($29.99) now features three different connectors for mini-USB, micro-USB and iPhone connections.

H2O Audio Expands Into More Retailers

SAN DIEGO — H2O Audio, a manufacturer of waterproof headphones and accessories, announced last month it has expanded its products into various CE retailers. More than 60 Sports Authority stores throughout California, New York, Florida, New Jersey and Hawaii, and nearly 200 Best Buy stores in California, Texas, Chicago and New York will feature H2O Audio's Surge waterproof headphones, Amphibx waterproof armbands and Interval waterproof headphone system.