Tech Universe: Tuesday 15 March

Can't stay off Facebook? Maybe you need the SNAK keyboard with its 19 one-touch Social hot keys for Facebook shortcuts. Photo / Supplied

ON YOUR FACE: Can't stay off Facebook? Maybe you need the SNAK keyboard with its 19 one-touch Social hot keys for Facebook shortcuts. Each button takes you direct to a corresponding Facebook page. Wouldn't macro software do the same job and be more flexible? More at SocialKeyboards and video on YouTube.

SCREWED UP TRIKE: Nils Ferber designed a very different trike that you lie on top of. Two 18V Bosch electric screwdrivers push the EX trike at up to 30 Kph. The rider steers by twisting their body to move the larger single back wheel. Two smaller wheels are at the front along with handlebars and brake levers. It's a great concept but looks mighty dangerous. More at Gizmodo.

BOOK TRANSFORMERS: Remember books - those paper devices without hyperlinks and full of fixed sized text? The new Fountaindale Public Library in Illinois, USA, still has the paper but adds Wi-Fi, iPads, Kindles and Nooks, flat-screen TVs, video games, computer terminals, self-checkout stations, an automated book sorter and a cafe. Specially designed reading and activity areas help keep the focus on words. Way to go: focus on the content rather than the containers! More at ChicagoBreakingNews.

HONEY, I'M HOME: Can't see your bags on the luggage carousel? Did you miss them or haven't they come out yet? The Wireless Luggage Finder could be a handy gadget for the frequent traveller. The tag goes on your bag. It detects altitude and light levels to know when it's in the cargo hold and shut itself off. Once it's out of the plane again it signals your keychain device to say it's within 20 metres. Ready... sprint. More at X-TremeGeek.

SHOWER POWER: Hmmm, you're in the shower and water's pouring down the drain. Meanwhile the radio's using electricity or batteries to tell you the news. How about combining the two and powering the radio with water? The H2O FM shower radio is fitted in-line between the water supply and shower hose. Water passing through a micro turbine powers a generator that runs the radio. Simple and brilliant. More at the BBC.

- Miraz Jordan knowit.co.nz