Successful investing is just as much about enjoying the journey as it is about the end result. The following gizmos and gadgets are fun, functional items that will help you in your financial endeavors. In some cases, they are mere luxuries that are to be enjoyed if you are able to afford them. Either way, make sure to search the net for the best price by clicking the "Compare Prices" button.
1) HP3300 Business Printer
With a huge capacity paper tray, the HP3300 business printer is perfect for the investor who wants to print off large SEC filings or reports in minutes. Printing is inexpensive [around two cents per page], and the truly dedicated financier can scan annual reports, convert them to e-mail or Microsoft Word format to edit, highlight, or take notes. This all-in-one also possesses copy and fax capabilities.
2) HP BII Financial Calculator
I purchased an HP BII calculator a couple of years ago and have used it exclusively since. It can normally be purchased for less than $30 and performs over 100 financial calculations including time value of money. The instruction manual is easy to read and includes real-life examples. Excellent to use for accounting, economics, finance, investing, and more.
3) Sony NetMD 505 Minidisc Recorder and MP3 Player
I bring my Sony NetMD on plane flights. Using a simple USB connection, you can transfer up to 5 1/2 hours of music or audio books to inexpensive minidiscs [around $2.50 each at Best Buy]. The Sony NetMD 505 also includes recording capabilities, perfect for capturing live lectures, conferences, or notes.
4) Palm m130 Color Handheld
Use this inexpensive color Palm to organize contacts, addresses, phone numbers, task lists, and appointments. Includes several games such as Scrabble for your recreational enjoyment. Compatible with both PCs and Macs.
5) Starbucks Barista Aroma
I admit it; I'm a coffee junkie [for the others of you out there, I recommend http://coffeetea.about.com] The Starbucks Barista Aroma is the perfect addition to any study or office. The machine can be set to brew at a specific time of day, has an auto shut-off feature, and the coffee itself lasts up to five hours thanks to a thermal carafe.
6) Philips Flat Screen Television
The first time I saw one of these flat screen televisions was in a Bose audio store on the east coast. I instantly fell in love; the idea of watching CNBC in the mornings on this beauty absolutely sent shivers down my spine [call me a finance geek]. They are definitely not for the light of wallet! Hopefully they will become less expensive in coming years, but until then, they are fun to look at!
