It's available in capacities of 250GB ($109.99), 320GB ($139.99) and 500GB ($179.99), but what stands out is the speed with the FireWire 800 connection on a Mac.

PC users can enjoy it with a USB 2.0 connection, but either way the hand-held drive works on most any desktop or laptop computer.

The slick looking drive comes with all the cables you need for whatever connection you choose and works in a plug and play manner without the need to load any drivers or software.

Since it's bus-powered, there is no need for a power cord and with the FireWire connection users can expect transfer speeds of 800MB per second.

While the performance is great, Verbatim also made the 2.5-inch drive stylish looking in a black aluminum-extruded case and a fingerprint-resistant matte finish. A protective carrying case is included.

The drive has a 5400rpm spindle speed and 8MB of cache memory but only weights .41 lbs for great portability.

Earlier this year Verbatim launched the Color Nano Wireless Notebook Mouse ($29.99), which works for both Mac and Windows systems.

The 2.4 GHz wireless mouse is available in seven popular colors; blue, graphite, green, pink, purple, red and yellow.

Users connect a tiny USB attachment to the computer's port for an instant connection. Since it's so small, just leave it attached unless the port is needed for something else.

The mouse's clean and uncluttered design is complemented with a smooth, rubberized grip, which provides comfort and control for both right- and left-hand use.

With the programmable roller button, favorite features can be assigned to the roller, making them more convenient to access.

Details: www.verbatim.com

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RockBuds earphones from chicBuds are called a functional and comfortable on their web site and I have to agree.

What makes them functional is the cord, which rolls into the built-in retractable device on the cord itself.

Users can extend the cord to the desired length without having all the extra to get in the way or caught on something. This makes them ideal for the athletic types since they have five stopping points to suit varied lengths.

The earphone itself is silicon tipped inner earbud, which is my preference for comfort. Designwise, the company puts what it calls a rockin' design on the black case that holds the cord, so if you're into a full-fledged styling set of earbuds, this is for you.

While the sound is OK, the functionally is really what makes these handy.