EXCLUSIVES

This clever device has to be seen to be appreciated: it's a brushed aluminum control knob on a customizably pulsating blue base, guaranteed to attract a lot of attention. But the PowerMate is more than just a cute gadget; I found it to be a surprisingly useful tool. And as a USB device, it's very easy to set up and configure.

Its most obvious function is as an audio controller. Its software presets allow it to control volume and toggle the mute function in iTunes. Actually, there are 5 actions that can be customized to suit any application clicking and/or rotating. So, for example, in Word, you can set actions to control sound muting, scrolling, and functions like Tab or Enter. In iMovie, it can function as a Jog/Shuttle wheel. PowerMate can be programmed to do any key command - in any application - and remember them all.

Optical 24-Color USB Mouse $64.95

This has to be the coolest mouse around. Imagine an optical mouse that can cycle through all the colors of the rainbow when it sits idle on your desk, and you select which color you prefer the mouse to glow when in use. Its two buttons and scroll wheel function without special drivers in OS X. Shinza products can be ordered via the Web or by calling 1-877-804-5563.

Wacom Graphire2 $99.95 

Graphire2 is Wacom's entry-level graphics tablet, and one whose functionality goes way beyond just graphics applications. In addition to a pressure-sensitive pen (with built-in eraser!) it comes with a cordless mouse that you can use in any application. But the software that comes bundled with the Graphire2 would cost more than the tablet itself if bought separately: Adobe's superb Photoshop Elements and procreate's amazing Painter Classic are both powerful but user-friendly. And installing the tablet will give immediate access to Jaguar's exciting handwriting-input application, Ink.

Apple gift card

If your donee lives near an Apple retail store, this can be the ultimate gift. If you don't know whether to give an iMac or an iBook, a PowerBook or a Dual G4, why not give a gift card, and let the lucky person make his or her own choice?

Apple iPod

Who wouldn't love the latest incarnation of Apple's exciting music-player-cum-FireWire-hard-drive? With three models, from 10 gigabytes at $299 holding 2,500 songs, to $499 (30 GB, 7,500 songs), this makes a truly special gift.

For iBook, PowerBook owners

Atek Super Mini Optical Mouse $49.95

This amazingly tiny device, the smallest mouse I've seen, fits right on the wrist rest of a laptop. With two programmable buttons and superior optical precision, it's a great addition for the severely space-challenged traveler. It even comes with a nice little padded travel pouch.

Targus Urban Carrying Case $59.99

Functional and unique in design, this lightweight case will hold an iBook or a PowerBook and features a spacious front compartment that offers accessory and storage file space, a main compartment with mesh side webbing and additional file space, and an elastic security strap for safe computer storage. In fact, there are 12 compartments, pockets and slots to organize essentials. With a lifetime warranty, it's equally appropriate for a man or a woman who has to carry more than just their laptop.

My favorite gadget

irock! 300W Wireless Music Adapter $29.99

Do you know someone who has an iPod or CD/MP3 player and wants to listen through a car or home stereo that can't take a cassette adaptor? Here's the perfect gift: the irock! 300W lets you link a portable music player to a car or home stereo effortlessly and without wires, without headaches. Simply plug the 300W into any audio output source (iPod, MP3, CD, cassette player, computer or laptop), choose one of four FM frequencies, and tune your radio to that frequency. The irock! 300W transmits the audio from your player directly to the FM radio - without wires or hassle. It's small and 2 AAA alkaline batteries are said to provide about 20 hours of music.

And last but not least ...

A perfect gift idea for any Mac user or creative person is a subscription to MacDirectory Magazine. Glossy and well designed, MacDirectory is a visually stunning and sophisticated quarterly that offers innovative features, reviews, interviews, and a unique perspective on an extraordinary cross section of people coming forward as Mac users. It is a business resource and a cultural source. A one-year subscription is only $32.00, just one third of the cover price! To subscribe, or for more information, go to www.macdirectory.com