Blogging CES: Tools of the Trade (01/10/2007 9:00 AM)
So what does it take to blog CES? In addition to being able to function on 4-5 hours of sleep, blogging requires a decent amount of mobile technology. A pair of sensible shoes and frequent hits of caffeine don’t hurt either.
Netgear Blogger Headquarters
As an independent blogger, I’m generally on a pretty tight budget. But now that I’m well-connected, I asked borrowed a few items from Netgear to set up shop in the hotel.
1. Laptop
My laptop is a standard issue corporate model Dell (thanks, Work!). It’s got a word processor, a web browser, and some image manipulation software. What more do I need?
2. Netgear Travel Router
I requested a small router, and this one’s about the size of a pack of smokes! In literally under ten minutes, I had unwrapped the device and created a WPA wireless network in my suite. I used the clever SSID of “Wireless Network.” Having a personal WiFi net has freed me from the corner of the desk. Blogging from the couch and in bed is much more comfortable. Remember: What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.
3. Netgear WiFi Skype phone
Only VIPs get my cell phone number. Everyone else gets a SkypeIn number. This Skype phone also connects wirelessly to the travel router to reach the Skype service.
Mobile Bloggin’
I’ve spent a large amount of my time in a variety of traveling among the various venues here at CES. Fortunately, I’ve got a connected mobile office in my backpack allowing me to blog from whatever table, bench, or floor I can find.
1. Laptop
Same laptop as above. It’s a bit too large and heavy, but it gets the job done.
2. Sprint PPC-6700
I actually hate this phone and keep it around for just one reason: Tethered EVDO modem functionality. Basically, anywhere I have a 3G signal my laptop will have DSL speeds. I never have to worry about finding an Ethernet jack or an open WiFi network. Also, the preferred method of communication here in Vegas seems to be text messages since it’s too loud to carry on a conversation.
3. Battery Geek extended battery
The best money I never spent! A fellow blogger loaned me this external battery which has been invaluable for long flights and mobile blogging. I don’t know exactly how much extra juice I’m getting, but this thing lasts hours – well worth the extra weight.
4. Camera
I actually have had two cameras with me at all times: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 in my right front pocket, and the Fuji Finepix F30 in the backpack. Both are “pocketable” cameras that have different approaches in taking decent indoor pics… The Panny uses image stabilization while the Fuji has an exceptional low light sensor. Though neither has been able to compensate for the poor photography skills of the guy behind the camera.
5. Backpack
My Ogio backpack is indestructible and holds up no matter what I throw in it or at it. It doesn’t have a laptop sleeve or enough organizers, but I’ll sacrifice those for the piece of mind knowing that the shoulder strap won’t tear as I sprint across The Strip.
6. Squishy Disposable Earplugs
Never leave home without them! Not only were these great on the plane, it allows me to concentrate while writing amidst all the noise.