about gadgets

What exactly is a gadget? It could be almost anything -- a watch, a pair of fancy headphones or any other small and interesting device. A gadget might make life easier or just more fun.

Regardless of their specific functions, gadgets are interesting to us, and we've been known to snap up certain trendy gadgets as soon as they hit store shelves. Even older gadgets are still interesting enough to make us stop and stare. For example, have you ever wondered what the pendulum does in a grandfather clock? Or how a tape recorder records on magnetic tape?

Modern electronic gadgets are especially popular -- people love owning and showing off the latest technology. For example, if you fly just about anywhere these days, you're likely to see someone with an expensive pair of noise-cancelling headphones. But keep your eyes peeled and you just might see someone taking their music with them with portable media centers or portable audio studios. Or -- if you can believe it -- a spoon that might even be able to taste your food for you.

Have you ever wanted to learn what makes one microphone different from another? How about what exactly happens when someone gets shot with a stun gun? Have you ever considered how metal detectors sense coins buried underground? Our electronic gadgets article library will help you find out what makes the Clover Coffee Maker worth $11,000. We can tell you what it is about massage chairs that rubs people the right way. You can find out how haptic technology is making it possible for doctors to conduct operations on patients who are miles away from them. We'll even take a look into the future to let you know how universal translators will help you decode what someone else is saying.

what's inside: electronic gadgets channel

 

Audio and Music Gadgets

Audio and music gadgets are staples in today's world. Articles in this channel range from noise-canceling headphones to portable media centers. Learn more about audio and music gadgets.  See more »

Clocks and Watches

Where would we be without our clocks and watches? We'll explore the inner-workings of timepieces as well as look at some specifics, such as smart watches, Indiglo, digital watches and pendulum clocks.  See more »

Home Gadgets

Home gadgets can revolutionize the way you live by simplifying everyday activities. Home gadgets range from robotic vacuums to high-tech security cameras. Check out this great collection of home gadgets at HowStuffWorks.  See more »

Kitchen Gadgets

Kitchen gadgets help make cooking and cleaning in the kitchen a lot easier. Kitchen gadgets range from digital thermometer pans to 2-liter dispensers. Check out these great kitchen gadgets at HowStuffWorks. See more »

Other Gadgets

Want to learn more about electronic gadgets? We'll take a look at some of the classics, such as metal detectors and anti-shoplifting devices and some next-gen, like night vision gadgets and digital jewelry. See more »

Travel Gadgets

Travel gadgets are perfect for anyone planning on making a trip. Travel gadgets range from solar-powered backpacks to global cell phones. Check out these great travel gadgets at HowStuffWorks. See more »

Gadget Quizzes

These gadget quizzes are a great way to see how much you know about today's technological wonders. There are gadgets for music fans, frequent travelers, the kitchen and the car. Visit this section to see how much you know about the coolest gadgets out the See more »

featured articles

FPO

How GPS Receivers Work

For less than $100, you can get a pocket-sized gadget that will tell you exactly where you are on Earth at any moment. As long as you have a GPS receiver and a clear view of the sky, you'll never be lost again. Learn more!

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