For nearly two years, I have been hauling around an iPad sleeve and a padfolio for different meetings and work projects. It's tedious, but I have always been shocked by how few tablet cases are designed to accommodate a tablet and a small notebook. I can't be the only one that still likes to take note on old fashioned pen and paper?!

It's funny to think just a few years ago many of us were still using wired keyboards and mice. But thanks to Bluetooth technology, most of us cut the cords long time ago, only left to worry about keeping our peripherals' batteries charged. I hardly ever stop to think about the wireless conversation happening between my computer and the wireless devices all day...except for those mysterious times when the connection cuts out. Here are a few tips for OS X users to help you discover what's messing with your Bluetooth mouse, keyboard, headset, or speakers...

Memorial Day weekend has come and gone all too quickly, and with it came the official beginning of swimsuit season. Considering many of us take our phones and portable devices everywhere, including the pool or beach, it might also be a good time to look into waterproofing your gear before taking a dip. The options range from devices specifically designed for water-use, to accessories to protect your existing moisture-susceptible devices from splashes poolside...

It was about a year ago to this day we first previewed the Leap, a small USB peripheral we described as a "Microsoft Kinect for your computer monitor". Funny we said that, as now with the wide availability of Microsoft's Windows 8, the possibilities of using motion tracking gestures with Windows tile-based UI seem like a perfect fit...

Extension cords are, well, pretty universally ugly. Making them more attractive is also a tough job, because of the electricity involved, which could lead to a fire hazard. Enter rope...specifically, firesafe rope.

Everyone has his or her go-to stores for specific needs, whether it be furniture, fashion, or tech gear. And when it comes to accessorizing my desk area, I'm always on the hunt for accessorizing my work area with designs which range from classic to those with an element of playfulness. Here are five favorites I've bookmarked during my online window-shopping sessions...

The Poler Camera Cooler Bag
• $65.00
• West Elm

Who doesn't love a 2-for-1 special? Designed with dual purpose in mind, the Poler camera bag is first and foremost padded for safely toting around a DSLR, lens, with extra room for an smartphone and tablet. But the insulated carrying case can also work as a lunch bag (though they warn, not at the same time with your photo gear). A very handsome and handy little number for work and your lunch break, and a lot more affordable than my aspirational recommendation, which likely inspired this design.

It's pretty easy to create your own "custom" table by using IKEA table legs. The legs are set at a perfect height for making a desk, and people have often turned to an assortment of surfaces to match for a simple DIY desk solution. But I wanted to set out to build something a little more advanced...

Everyone knows having your personal information hacked is a nightmare to be avoided. But with the myriad of advice out there, which advice is the best to follow? Thankfully, after attending a security panel with Google's Director of Security for Google Apps, Eran Feigenbaum, and Head of Chrome Security, Parisa Tabriz, I came away with a better understanding of practicing safe and secure habits online...

Chrome Welded Rucksack
• $110.00
• Chrome Industries 

I've got a couple of friends here in LA who've ditched the grind of sitting in traffic and now commute to work by bike. But hauling a laptop and other tech accessories while pedaling can prove to be challenging on the streets of any city, requiring secure and weather-proof carrying gear. The Chrome Welded Rucksack seems up to the task: waterproof, accommodates up to a 15" laptop, U-lock pocket, and includes a removable laptop sleeve.