TECH X DIRECT - Product Blog

New! Doorway Fan Air Booster

2012-01-20T05:37:00.000-08:00

Room-To-Room Air Booster - Doorway Corner Fan

**EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY - CAST ALUMINUM HOUSING AND METAL IMPELLER!**
You have probably seen a variety of doorway fans, and I bet they look like cheap, plastic, ready-to-break, items from China. This fan is heavy (2-lbs), made of cast aluminum with a metal impeller. Made to last, made to be QUIET. Exactly what you want in a fan that will be constantly running. Made in Canada, and has a 1-year warranty!

Below are the specifications from the product page, you can buy this item HERE! (click)

ROTOM is a High-Quality manufacturer trusted by hearth professionals. Made in Canada.

Features:

Easy to install
Exceptionally quiet
Improved, even heat distribution
Die-cast aluminum housing
Universal rotating bracket complete with mounting hardware
12' power cord with in-line on/off switch
Protective chrome fan guards
Metal impeller
1 Year warranty

Description:

The RDF150 is a simple, inexpensive, easy to install and remarkably silent solution to uncomfortable and frustrating room to room heating or cooling problems.

Mounted in a doorway and featuring a rotating bracket, it is possible to position or direct the enhanced airflow from one remote area to another for maximum, even heat distribution.

You will recieve:

Blower
Fan bracket
Chrome fan guards
12' power cord
Mounting hardware

Universal GFK-160A Blower Fan for Gas and Wood Fireplaces

2012-01-20T05:28:00.000-08:00

HBRB-38 Fireplace Fan Kit - Universal Design to fit many OEM gas and wood fireplaces!

All components feature magnets for easy installation!

ROTOM is a High-Quality manufacturer trusted by hearth professionals. Made in Canada.

Features:

Watts - 53
Amps - 0.92
Volts - 115
RPM - 1/2400
Rotation - CW
CFM - 125
Blower size - 12.8" x 4.7" x 4.3"
Blower wheel - 76 x 101mm (2.6x9.4")
Bearing - Sleeve

Description:
This Dual Centrifugal Blower Kit fits many gas and wood fireplaces. The kit includes the blower, pre-assembled thermal sensor, and variable speed control assembly complete with cord and three prong plug. All of the components feature magnets to make the installation of this kit easy! You will need to make sure you have a factory electrical outlet installed in your fireplace for this kit to plug into.

You will receive:

Blower w/ Magnetic Attachment
Temp Sensor w/ Magnet
Speed Controller w/ Magnet
Cord with 3-prong plug

YOU CAN PURCHASE THIS FAN KIT HERE! (CLICK)

Universal Fan Kit Blower for Most Gas and Wood Fireplaces

2011-12-12T05:26:00.000-08:00

New! Universal Fan Kit Blower for most gas and wood fireplaces. Featuring a magnetically mounted fan, temp sensor, and speed control for EASY installation. Simply plug in the 3-prong plug to an outlet, stick the components in with supplied magnets, and you're done! 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

Features:

Watts - 50
Amps - 0.86
Volts - 115
RPM - 1/1250
Rotation - CW
CFM - 130
Blower size - 12.9" x 4.3" x 3.6"
Blower wheel - 65 x 240mm (2.6x9.4")
Bearing - Sleeve

Description:
This Tangential Blower Kit fits many gas and wood fireplaces. The kit includes the blower, pre-assembled thermal sensor, and variable speed control assembly complete with cord and three prong plug. All of the components feature magnets to make the installation of this kit easy! You will need to make sure you have a factory electrical outlet installed in your fireplace for this kit to plug into.

You will receive:

Blower w/ Magnetic Attachment
Temp Sensor w/ Magnet
Speed Controller w/ Magnet
Cord with 3-prong plug

New Fireplace Fan Kits!

2011-11-26T14:15:00.001-08:00

Wow! We just got in a new supply of fireplace fan kits from our favorite blower manufacturer ROTOM. These are all OEM replacement fans made in Canada. ROTOM is a brand trusted by hearth professionals everywhere, and makes a product with the high quality you want.
Featured above is the Heatilator GFK21, Majestic FK12, Vermont Castings FK26, and Heatilator GFK4 blowers. Below you can find links to their respective product pages. These items are competitively priced; however, are not meant to compete with the cheap knock-offs we all know are out there!

GFK21-Heatilator-Fan-Kit
FK12-Majestic-Fan-Kit
FK26-Vermont-Castings-Fan
GFK4-Heatilator-Fan-Kit

As always, we offer a 100-Day 100% Complete Satisfaction Guarantee!
TECH X DIRECT.COM

New GZ550 Fan Kit Blower for Napoleon Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces

2011-11-21T05:27:00.001-08:00

GZ550 Fan Kit Product Page

GZ550 Fireplace Fan Kit - Fits Napoleon, Continental, Wolf Steel Fireplaces

This is a high-quality fan kit by ROTOM. It fits most Napoleon direct vent gas/propane fireplaces. Rotom part# HB-RB58

Features:

Watts - 42

Amps - 0.57

Volts - 115

RPM - 1/1400

Rotation - CCW

CFM - 110

Blower size - 10.5" x 4.3" x 3.6"

Blower wheel - 65 x 180mm (2.6x7.1")

Bearing - Sleeve

Description:

Complete blower kit to fit most Napoleon direct vent gas fireplaces. If your Napoleon, Continental, or Wolf Steel fireplace manual lists the blower as the GZ550, this is the blower kit you need! This is the full kit, and includes everything you need to mount and operate the blower. You will need to make sure you have a factory electrical outlet installed in your fireplace for this kit to plug into.

You will recieve:

Blower

Mounting base

Thermal switch assembly

Variable speed control

Mounting hardware

Wiring harness

Cord with 2-prong plug

Skytech 5301 Touch Screen Remote for Gas Fireplaces

2011-11-17T05:58:00.001-08:00

The Skytech 5301 Touch Screen remote control is always a holiday best-seller. Featuring a huge back-lit LCD display, it is easy to read and use. Set your desired temperature, place the remote on your coffee table, and enjoy the fire! On sale now, and don't forget the Daily Deal while it lasts!
Tech X Direct is your Skytech Superstore! We always offer our 100-Day 100% Complete Satisfaction Guarantee to give you the confidence that you are investing in a great product, and that we will stand behind it!
Product page: Skytech 5301 Touch Screen Remote

Universal FK-24 Fan Kit for Majestic Fireplaces and More!

2011-11-12T06:43:00.001-08:00

Here it is! The brand-new Universal Fireplace Fan Kit and direct replacement for the popular FK-24 blower. This is a direct replacement for many Majestic and CFM fireplaces. It is also a great substitute for the BLOT blower used in many Monessen and newer Majestic units.
The kit features a unique electronic speed control that eliminates the complicated wiring of separate speed controls and temperature sensors, and makes installation EASY!
Here are a couple wiring diagrams for the most common installation scenarios:

The new speed control is provided with the Fan Kit Sytem to adjust the air output. The speed control will turn ON the fan automatically 7 minutes after the main flame has been turned ON and turn the fan OFF 12 minutes after the main flame has been turned OFF. There are four speeds, Hi, Medium, Medium-Lo, Lo, and OFF. You can manually adjust the speed by pressing the FAN SPEED button on the speed control module.

Included Components

Main fan housing with two leads and a ground wire.

FK-ESC (speed control).

Air Deflector and Mounting Bracket.

Jumper Wire (used for IPI valves only)

(2) Magnetic and (2) Foam Strips

(6) Phillips Sheet Metal Screws

You can purchase this fan system here: Universal Fan Kit and FK-24 replacement

Skytech 1001-TH-A Thermostat Remote

2011-11-08T06:24:00.000-08:00

Keep it simple with Skytech's 1001-TH-A thermostatic remote control for gas fireplaces. This unit features and easy to use 4-button transmitter. On/Off, Mode (to toggle between manual and thermostat), and Set (to set desired temperature. Easy to read LCD display shows the current room temperature.
There is also a convenient wall clip to mount the transmitter so you're not always digging through the couch cushions looking for the remote.

For a limited time, this remote qualifies for the Free Santa's Helper promotion with purchase.

Product page 1001-TH-A
Promotion page Santa's Helper

Free Santa's Helper Remote with Purchase!*

2011-11-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

Get a free Skytech Santa's Helper remote control system for your holiday lights when you purchase a qualifying thermostatic remote from Tech X Direct!

Click the image above to see promotion details and qualifying remote controls.

As always, we offer a 100-Day 100% Complete Satisfaction Guarantee on every purchase - shop with confidence!

Tech X Direct - Now on your iPhone!

2011-11-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

Our website is now optimize for mobile shopping! When you visit our storefront on your mobile device, such as an iPhone, iPad, or Android, you will see a new easy to read/navigate format. We love technology here at Tech X Direct, in both our products, and in our service to you our customers.

Special thanks to PShelper for the mobile design!

2011-10-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

Tech X Direct is now stocking the RCT-MLT and RCST-MLT remote controls for Heat-N-Glo and Heatilator fireplaces. Both systems use the above pictured transmitter, offering a host of features to control your gas fireplace.

Features:

Receiver Plugs into standard 110-120 VAC receptacle
Flip cover to protect 6-button controls
LCD display room temp. in °F or °C
Thermostat setting
Fan Speed Control
Flame Height Control
All Skytech batteries and wall holder included
9-hour countdown timer and 24-hour clock
Flame icon and low battery indicator

The above picture shows the included components for the RCT-MLT.

You will recieve:

Handheld remote control unit
Receiver system with 120v plug with ground
Wiring to connect receiver to valve
Flame control solenoid
Wall holster for transmitter
All necessary batteries for operation
Full instruction manual
Free 1-888 Help Line for live assistance from Skytech

Above are the components of the RCST-MLT. Notice the inclusion of the regulator tower.

You will recieve:

Handheld remote control unit
Receiver system with 120v plug with ground
Wiring to connect receiver to valve
Flame control solenoid and regulator tower
Wall holster for transmitter
All necessary batteries for operation
Full instruction manual
Free 1-888 Help Line for live assistance from Skytech

Both of these remote controls are available at Tech X Direct's website. The links are below:

RCT-MLT-III - Direct replacement for Heat-N-Glo / Heatilator

RCST-MLT-III - Direct replacement for Heat-N-Glo / Heatilator

Skytech 5301P Touch Screen Fireplace Remote Control

2011-10-14T05:33:00.000-07:00

This season's most popular fireplace remote control from Skytech! Touch-screen devices are all the rage right now, and the 5301P features an easy-to-read backlit display. The newest 5301P is a step up from the original 5301. It adds programmability to the built-in thermostat, allowing you to set desired themperatures based on what day of the week it is.

Full feature list:

All battery operated - R.F.

Touch Screen transmitter

Backlit LCD screen

Thermostatic control

Flame icon and low battery indicator

Programmable (Weekday/Weekend) (5/2)

Thermo safety feature

Communication safety feature

Wall mount docking station

1,048,567 security codes

Here is a link to the product page at Tech X Direct: Skytech 5301P Remote Control
From this page you can also download and review the entire install/owner's manual.

Skytech Superstore!

2011-09-30T04:53:00.000-07:00

Tech X Direct is your Skytech Superstore! Choose from a fantastic selection of remote controls, gas fire pits, valve systems for gas logs, fan kits, and more. We are an authorized internet distributor for Skytech Systems, and can offer you the lowest allowed pricing and an unbeatable 100-Day 100% Complete Satisfaction Guarantee!

With over 10-years in the hearth industry, we are confident we can assist you with finding the best products to fit your needs. Every item on our site will ship free, with no minimum order! Check back often this season and visit the home page to find exciting discounts and coupon codes on popular items and categories.

Upgrade your gas fireplace this season! Shop Tech X Direct

2011-09-16T05:05:00.000-07:00

Brrrrrr! It's getting cold out, and time to finally turn your gas fireplace back on. If your GFK-160A fan kit for your Heat-N-Glo fireplace is getting rather noisy, or if you need to ADD a fan to help improve heat circulation in your house, this is the blower for you.
Skytech has released their FK-180 fan kit, and is a direct replacement for the Heat-N-Glo GFK-160A. It is a perfect factory-fit, and offers increased airflow, less noise, and the solid construction you would expect from a company like Skytech.
This unit includes the blower, temp sensor, speed control, installation instructions, and a 1-Year Factory Warranty.
We give you a fantastic 100-Day 100% Complete Satisfaction Guarantee!
Check it out here: Skytech Fan Kit

2011-09-13T05:43:00.000-07:00

You can now shop our storefront right from Facebook! Give it a look, and tell us what you think. We always want to make sure that the shopping experience for our customers is easy and convenient.
While you are looking, be sure to "Like" any interesting products or Like Tech X Direct to stay informed of new products in our news feed.
Tech X Direct Facebook Store

2011-09-09T05:47:00.000-07:00

Tech X Direct also has a wireless remote control for your 110v Electric Fireplace. Super easy to install, you simply plug the receiver into your wall outlet, and then plug the fireplace into the receiver. This remote control is a great way to add wireless convenience to your fireplace, or to replace an older remote that has stopped working. Tech X Direct guarantees you will love this remote, we'll back that up with an incredible 100-Day 100% Complete Satisfaction Guarantee!
Hit the link to view the product page: HERE

Spoke Burner for Gas Fire Pits

2011-07-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

The popular Skytech Spoke Burner is now available as a separate component!
Using this burner, you can build your own custom pan and fire pit while enjoying the realistic flame of this 6-spoke burner.
All Stainless Steel construction.
Manual Ignition - Match Light
Requires a Natural Gas or Liquid Propane orifice and air shutter - sold separately.
Available in two sizes: 19-inch and 25-inch.
You can buy them here:
19" Spoke Burner
25" Spoke Burner

Video of the Skytech Gas Fire Pit!

2011-07-10T15:05:00.000-07:00

Available here!

CHECK OUT OUR HOMEPAGE TO RECEIVE A VALUABLE COUPON CODE ON FIRE PITS!

Valve Kits for Vented Gas Logs

2011-07-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

Don't forget! Tech X Direct carries an entire selection of Skytech Valve Kits for Vented Gas Logs.
"Slim Line" models offer a standing pilot, and you can select kits with a remote that can on/off or on/off/hi/lo flame control.
"Compact" models are available in either standing pilot or spark-to-pilot. Again, remote control kits are an option, as well as flame control!
All models are natural gas and can be switched to LP propane with the appropriate conversion kit.
You can shop all the models here.

Gas Fire Pits Now Available!

2011-06-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

Tech X Direct is now stocking the full line of Skytech Fire Pit Systems!
Choose from:
Round 19" - http://www.techxdirect.com/servlet/the-176/Skytech-Gas-Fire-Pit/Detail
Round 25" - http://www.techxdirect.com/servlet/the-177/Skytech-Gas-Fire-Pit/Detail
Square 20" - http://www.techxdirect.com/servlet/the-178/Skytech-Gas-Fire-Pit/Detail
Square 26" - http://www.techxdirect.com/servlet/the-179/Skytech-Gas-Fire-Pit/Detail
These are complete systems with electric spark ignition and remote control with Hi/Low flame height control.
Complete with 5-year limited warranty. As always, we guarantee your satisfaction 100%!!!

New Bongo Tie Colors Available Soon!

2011-05-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

In addition to the popular BLACK and BAMBOO colors, we will soon be introducting 4 exciting new colors to our product selection.

Stealth Black (black on black)
RED Cinema (red on black)
Blue (blue on blue)
Red (red on red)

The Can Converter - New Video!

2011-03-02T05:49:00.000-08:00

The Can Converter recessed light conversion kit is available at our website with free shipping!

Hit the link here: Tech X Direct

Gas Fireplace Fan Kit Blower Heat-N-Glo GFK-160A

2010-12-02T06:14:00.000-08:00

Don't forget! We still offer the Skytech FK-180 Universal Fan Kit. It is a direct replacement for the Heat-N-Glo GFK-160A fan kit for gas fireplaces! Enjoy a higher CFM (more airflow) and the smoothness of ball-bearing construction. Magnet mounted, includes a Speed Control rheostat, and a Snap Stat (thermostatic switch) to keep the fan running only when the fireplace is hot.
You can view the product page HERE!

Smart Stat III Unboxing Picture! Fireplace Remote for Heat N Glo

2010-12-02T06:08:00.000-08:00

Transmitter, wall holster, and plug-in receiver. Not shown are the batteries for the transmitter, owner's manual etc.
You can buy it HERE!

Smart Batt III Unboxing Picture! Fireplace Remote for Heat N Glo

2010-12-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

Transmitter, wall holster, battery-operated receiver, batteries, wall plate for optional wall-mount of receiver. You can buy it HERE!

Skytech 5301P Fireplace Remote Control Program T-Stat

2010-12-02T05:58:00.001-08:00

The Skytech 5301 was our most popular fireplace remote control. Now they have released a Programmable version! This is the best touch screen fireplace remote on the market. It features a 5/2 program thermostat, backlit screen, and the 5301P now has a standart wall holster for the transmitter. This is the perfect addition or upgrade to your gas fireplace.
View the product page HERE!

Skytech 3301P2 Fireplace Remote Control Thermostat LCD

2010-12-02T05:54:00.001-08:00

The new and improved 3301P2 has replaced the tried and true 3301P.
Enjoy the new backlit LCD screen! Programmable thermostat control, and a now standard wall holster. View the product page HERE!

Skytech 3301P2 Gas Fireplace Remote Control with Thermostat

Skytech Smart Stat Remote for Heat-N-Glo Fireplaces

2010-12-02T05:50:00.001-08:00

After adding the Smart Batt remote to our lineup (battery operated receiver), we also added the Smart Stat as well! The Smart Stat offers the same great features as it's battery operated cousin, only with a 120v plug in to power the receiver. You can view the product page HERE.

Skytech Smart Batt Remote for Heat-N-Glo Fireplaces

2010-12-02T05:47:00.001-08:00

Now available from Tech X Direct! This is a direct replacement for Heat-N-Glo Smart Batt remote controls for gas fireplaces. See the product page HERE.

Can Converter recessed light conversion kit now available in Oil Rubbed Bronze and Satin Nickel!

2009-11-17T14:17:00.000-08:00

Both Oil Rubbed Bronze, and Satin Nickel medallions are now available pre-packaged with our R56 Can Converters. As always, the R56 (for 5" and 6" recessed cans) also includes a flat white medallion, and a bevelled white medallion.
When you order the R56 Can Converter in either nickel or bronze, we insert the colored medallion into the box with the other included medallions.
What a great way to convert you ugly old recessed cans into beautiful new lighting fixtures or fans!

You can buy them here:

Oil Rubbed Bronze Can Converter (R56)
Satin Nickel Can Converter (R56)

Skytech FK-180 Universal Fireplace Fan Kit / Blower

2009-11-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

The Skytech FK-180 Fan Kit is a universal blower for gas fireplaces.
*It is also a direct replacement for the Heat-N-Glo GFK-160A fan kit, which is hugely popular nationwide.*
It is attached magnetically inside the firebox, so you don't need any screws etc. to attach the blower motor itself.
The kit includes a rheostat to adjust the fan speed, and a temperature sensor (snap-disk) that keeps the fan from turning on/off until the fireplace is within/out of correct operating temperature.
The Skytech Kit is a high quality upgrade fan that uses ball bearings for Quiet and Long-Lasting performance. It also has robust cables, and a polarized plug with separate ground wire for great compatibility (not everyone has a 3-prong outlet in their firebox).
If you are searching for a premium upgrade fan kit for your fireplace, you can purchase the Kit HERE.
Please be sure to check the fan dimensions on the product page to make sure it will fit your application.

Skytech 3301 Fireplace Remote Control Thermostat LCD

2009-11-01T06:52:00.000-08:00

Skytech's SKY-3301 is a universal remote control for your gas fireplace!
This model offers:
A flip-down protective cover
Velvet-touch casing
Thermostatic control
9-Hour countdown timer
Clock
and is all battery operated!

You can purchase the SKY-3301 HERE!

Skytech 5301 Universal Touch Screen Fireplace Remote Control

2009-11-01T05:43:00.001-08:00

The new flagship of Skytech's line of remote controls is their Touch-Screen 5301!

Features:

All battery operated
Touch screen transmitter
Backlit LCD screen
Thermostatic control
9-Hour countdown timer
Over 1-Million security codes
Flame icon and battery indicator

You can purchase the SKY-5301 HERE!

Skytech Systems Fireplace Remote Controls!

2009-11-01T05:33:00.000-08:00

TECH X DIRECT is now offering a full line of Universal Remote Controls for fireplaces and gas log sets. Skytech System's remotes are compatible with Milivolt gas valves, and offer a range of features.
Shown above is Skytech's 5301 featuring a full touch-screen interface and thermostat control. Stay tuned for box-shots of new models as they arrive!
Skytech SKY-5301 at TECH X DIRECT here!

Nelson Outdoor Water Scrub Brush

2009-09-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

The Nelson Water Brush is a handy device for your outdoor cleaning.
Use it on: patios, decks, outdoor furniture, windows, gutters, & driveways!
The brush attaches to the end of your hose, and the liquid soap is stored in the resevoir in the handle. Not for use on delicate surfaces like your car!
You can buy the Nelson Water Brush HERE!

Dyno-Tab Octane Booster - Maximum Strength!

2009-09-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

Dyno-Tab makes a variety of fuel additives for your car, truck, or small-engine. One of the more popular additives is the Octane Booster. Gone are the days of buying the big bottles of octane booster and pouring it into your gas tank. Gone is the day of having to throw that big plastic bottle into the landfill. Now you can simply drop a tablet or two into the tank, and toss the cardboard packaging into the recycling!
The octane booster adds up to 17 octane points with two tabs, or 10 points with a single tablet.

You can buy the Dyno-Tab Octane Booster HERE.
Be sure to also search our store for other Dyno-Tab products!

Victor Sonic PestChaser - Mouse & Rat Repeller

2009-09-08T06:25:00.000-07:00

The Victor Sonic PetChaser! Repels rodents using ultrasonic frequencies and keeps your home free from dangerous poisons and chemicals. We were lucky enough to grab the remaining inventory of this great gadget before it was retired for the season.
Inventory is extremely limited, so don't delay!
You can buy the Victor PestChaser HERE.

Spray Close Spray Extender #6001 Wasp Hornet -Video!

2009-09-03T06:14:00.000-07:00

You can buy the Spray Extender HERE!

Stout's Backsaver Grip - Video!

2009-09-03T06:10:00.000-07:00

You can buy the Backsaver Grip HERE!

BongoTies - Product Review and Unboxing

2009-08-14T05:23:00.000-07:00

We just got an exciting new product in: BongoTies!
BongoTies are a patented elastic tie designed to hold cables and other unruly items quickly & simply. They are available in the original color BLACK, or the new BAMBOO bongoties with a natural color band. The retail package is shown above, each pack contains 10-ties.

The individual tie is approx 4 inches long, and I was able to easily stretch it to 16 inches.
It should be no problem to use on large bundles of cables, or to strap something to a large object.

This is a closeup of the tie, you can see it is made from a heavy-duty rubber. The wooden pin has smooth edges, and the band has the BongoTies logo imprinted on it.

I grabbed a bundle of component video cables I had lying around to try out the BongoTies. The BongoTie easily secured the cables. I was most impressed by friction caused by the thick rubber tie. The "stickiness" of the natural rubber tie would keep cords etc. from sliding down the object you strapped them to... I can see why professional photographers use the BongoTies.
All in all, I believe this is a great product.

You can buy Black BongoTies HERE.
You can buy the Bamboo BongoTies HERE.

Spray Close Spray Extender - New Product

2009-08-01T06:10:00.000-07:00

Another "I wish I had thought of that" product! I stumbled upon this nifty gizmo and immediately knew it would be a great addition to our product mix. Simply attach the Spray Close Spray Extender to one of your extension poles (steal one off your broom in the garage), insert the aeorsol can, and you're ready to spray.

The Spray Extender is geared towards Wasp Spray, Hornets, etc. where you do not want to get too close. That said, it should work well with any spray can (painting hard-to-reach places for example).
The Spray Extender comes with the tool itself, and a 15 foot extension string.

You can buy it HERE.

BackSaver Grip - Product Review

2009-07-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

Today we are looking at a new product: the BackSaver Grip HD. The BackSaver Grip is a universal handle that can attach to ANY long-handled tool. Shovels, rakes, and brooms come to mind as the most viable candidates. I'm over 6-feet tall, so I was eager to see if this product would live up to it's claims as an ergonomic solution to my tools. My back is always killing me after shovelling snow!
After unpacking my BackSaver Grip, I was pleased to notice that it felt very solid. It was lightweight, but feels "strong". It secured to my shovel using 6-bolts that clamp it down via pressure fit. After a little tweaking, I found the "sweet spot" that allowed me to make the scooping motion & lift some weight without having to bend so far over. Being tall, I usually have to reach my lifting hand way down the handle to get enough power, but the Grip gained me a good 12 inches up the handle (and a lot less pain!).

You can buy the Back Saver Grip HD (heavy duty) HERE.

Multi Purpose Pocket Survival Tool Review

2009-07-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Today we are showing you a credit card sized multi-tool. The tool is crafted from stainless steel, and has a nice weight to it. It is just thin enought to fit into your wallet etc. where you would normally place a card. Still, it is just thick enough that you can immediately tell it will be strong enough to accomplish your desired task.
To tool sports the following features: can opener, knife edge (sharp!), screwdriver (flat head), ruler, bottle opener, 4-position wrench, butterfly screw wrench, saw blade (also sharp), orientation marker, 2-position wrench, and finally a simple hole to attach a keyring, lanyard, etc.
You can purchase the multi-tool HERE!

TV Remote / Flashlight / Bottle Opener / Keychain - Gadget Review

2009-07-11T06:50:00.001-07:00

Wow! The name alone is a mouthfull... but how else do you communicate all the features this little keychain gadget has? Pop this on your keys, and you will have an LED flashlight, bottle opener, and TV remote control handy at all times.
Since this is a review, we're here to tell you how well it works:
TV Remote function - works exactly like our "Micro Spy" remote we reviewed recently. Just hold down the mute button to program it to your tv, and it works... really! Channel selection, volume, power, and A/V switching are all present.
Bottle Opener - Hey, there's real metal in there! Much sturdier than I would have anticipated from a low-cost gadget. It works, 'nuff said.

Flashlight function - Dual LEDs on the top, and simply press and hold the "light" button to operate. They are bright, but I've had one already where one of the two leds are dead.

Buttons - They glow! Often overlooked feature, but really useful.

You can buy this gadget HERE.

Magnetizer / Demagnetizer Gadget Review

2009-07-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

The Magnetizer/Demagnetizer gadget is a simple blue block. It measures a couple inches square, and will easily fit right into your tool box. To use the device, you simply insert the tip of the screwdriver (or whatever you want to magnetize) into the "magnetize" hole in the block. Presto, you're done! When you want to de-magnetize the item, you simply insert the tip into the "demagnetize" hole. Again, simple.
So what you really want to know is: does it really work?
The answer is "yes, absolutely". I've tested it on a number of my tools in the workshop, and have magnetized and demagnetized them all with great success. I wholeheartedly recommend this simple and affordable tool for everybody's toolbox.
You can buy it HERE.

Micro Spy Remote - Unboxing & Review #2

2009-07-07T05:23:00.001-07:00

Tech X Direct first brought this product in as a novelty item, and we didn't expect is to sell as well as it is. The truth is, it's going gangbusters! The remote comes in black or white, but we just never know what the factory in China is going to send us, so on-hand quantities vary frequently.
Cheap? - Oh yes!
Quality of construction? - Not too bad! There is not much to go wrong here, just a battery-holder which fits into the remote VERY snug (you may have trouble getting it back out).

Functionality? - IT WORKS! After opening it up, I tried the remote on my old Sony Trinitron that was nearby. FYI * the directions on the package are WRONG! To program the remote, turn the tv on, then point the remote at the tv and: 1.) Hold down the MUTE button. 2.) When "mute" flashes on your tv... 3.) Immediately release the MUTE button. The most common mistake is not releasing the mute button fast enough, and the remote continues to cycle through all it's pre-programmed codes.
Once the remote is programmed, all the functions work great! Power, Volume, Channel, Mute, and even a handy AV/TV button to switch to your dvd player etc.
You can buy this item at Tech X Direct here: MICRO SPY REMOTE

Micro Spy Remote - Unboxing & Review #1

2009-07-07T05:16:00.000-07:00

Here we have the "Micro Spy Remote". This is a mini universal remote control on a keychain. The package contains the keychain remote, and the battery. We ship this item in a padded envelope for safe delivery. The micro spy remote is very small, and would easily fit in your pocket along with you other keys. See our next post for our impressions of this popular item.

R4 Can Converter - Unboxing #2

2009-07-03T08:15:00.001-07:00

R4 Can Converter box contents. The R4 has a lot less stuff in it than it's larger brother, the R56. The first thing you'll notice is NO medallions. Since the canopy of a light or fan is larger than a standard 4" recessed can, you don't need a medallion! You'll get the bracket, socket, some screws, and the installation manual. Again, just like the R56, this is EASY to install. You should be done in minutes!

R4 Can Converter - Unboxing #1

2009-07-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

The Can Converter - Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit (R4) for 4" recessed cans. This is the R4's retail box. We ship this item in a padded envelope for extra protection.

The Can Converter - Unboxing #3

2009-07-02T15:01:00.000-07:00

In the (R56) Can Converter box, you will find the following parts:
1. Power outlet adapter
2. Mounting bracket
3. Offset sliding brackets
4. Phillips screws / self tapping screws
5. Wing nuts / nuts / threaded pipe
6. Reducer bushing
7. Mounting plate & Decorative Medallions
Tools you will need:
1. Power Drill
2. Slotted & Phillips screwdrivers
3. Safety goggles!
This is CRAZY EASY to install. It takes minutes, not hours. We'll have an installation video for you in a future post.

The Can Converter - Unboxing #2

2009-07-02T14:56:00.001-07:00

These are the two styles of medallions that are pre-packaged with the (R56) Can Converter.
The first is a flat thin medallion (sometimes called a goof-plate).
The second is a more decorative medallion with a deeper "stepped" look.
Both styles can be painted. *Note that these medallions do not have any visible holes or screws like the cheap ones at the big-box stores!

The Can Converter - Unboxing #1

2009-07-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

This is The Can Converter - Recessed Light Conversion Kit for 5" and 6" cans. (Model R56) The product comes boxed in a full-color retail box.
We place this box into additional packaging to ensure safe delivery. Please note that we also have a version for 4" cans... we'll unbox that in a future post.
Visit the Product Page on TECH X DIRECT.

TECH X DIRECT - Website Update!

2009-07-02T10:31:00.001-07:00

The TECH X DIRECT website has a great new look! Please check us out, comments are always welcome.