My Favorite Hardware of 2009

Is the year and the decade really coming to a close? It seems like it wasn't that long ago that we were all worrying that the world would melt down with Y2K problems. Now we are worrying more about the terrorist who melted his underwear on a flight. I thought it would be fun today to look back at some of the hardware products I've mentioned this year.

Probably the biggest post this year was Foster's Dream Computer is Being Built. In that one post, I described each of the parts I chose when I built a new computer three months ago. Of course I had to change my selection on the power supply a week later to the Cooler Master Power Supply. This post is especially important as these were all products where I put my own money behind each of the products listed.

While it isn't hardware, I've also gotten numerous questions from loyal readers about Windows 7. Most of those questions are wondering if CorelDRAW can be used on Windows 7. The short answer is that both CorelDRAW X3 and X4 will work just fine on Windows 7 (even the 64-bit versions). Older versions of CorelDRAW will have problems. If you are still using something older than CorelDRAW X3, you really should consider an upgrade as CorelDRAW 12 is now almost six years old!

If you are wanting to take still or video images, I've recommended several good cameras this year. For video, the Canon VIXIA HF S11 Camcorder is excellent. For those wanting a point and shoot camera, the Canon PowerShot 940IS 12.1MP Digital Camera is a great choice. I just ordered one for myself and can't wait until it arrives. If you are looking for a nice DSLR, check out the Canon 7D DSLR. To go along with your camera, you might want to get some good lights. The Photo/Digital Video Lighting Kit is a very nice system and has proven quite useful to me. You might also want to check out the Knome Dome Mini Slave Wide Plus if you want a remote flash. For getting all of your pictures into the computer, I told you about a memory card reader.

Wanting to add more music to your life? I also talked about the latest generation of iPods. They come in all sizes, shapes and colors so there is something for everyone. Of course you'll also want to get some really good headphones and that was covered last summer.

While the computer and electronics hardware is great, we also talked about some other things that might be fun to have. Probably the coolest was the gas powered blender I talked about last summer. Just thinking about it makes it feel a lot warmer outside. After enjoying that blended drink, you may want some coffee. I told you about Senseo Coffee Machines as well. I use one every day to make myself a cup of joe and even use it to heat water for tea and cocoa. If you have an interest in the stars, we talked about some really cool telescopes.

Those were some of my favorite hardware posts of 2009 and I'm already researching some great products to tell you about in 2010. Of course I also like to hear from you about hardware you want to know more about or even a great product you want to share with others. Post a comment and let us all know about it!