Recently, I got a generous offer to try a new device, and it got me thinking: Which gadgets help make my professional life easier?

After conducting a search around my desk (coupled with a Google search), this is what I came back with:

iLuv Portable Speaker

What: A simple battery-powered device that can be plugged into any standard audio jack/device, for instance, an iPhone, laptop, etc.

Why: Delivering quality sound when presenting content to a client or prospect is vital. In my case, I have a great laptop, but the sound isn't very powerful, so I use my iLuv Portable Speaker as an amplifier. It helps bring things to life in a much more powerful way.

Cost: $24.99

3M PocketProjector MP180

What: A lightweight and powerful projector that fits in the palm of you hand.

Why: This product sparked the idea for this post because it screams “genuinely useful.” With the 3M PocketProjector MP180, the days of lugging around heavy and complicated equipment is a thing of the past and it even stores data on the device, eliminating the need for additional chords and controls. Very cool.

Cost: $449

BlackBerry Presenter

What: This is a nice follow up to the 3M PocketProjector. The BlackBerry Presenter “is a 3.4 inch x 2.4 inch box-shaped gadget that connects to a projector or other display and wirelessly transfers PowerPoint presentations stored on your BlackBerry smartphone via Bluetooth.”

Why: Helps make your Blackberry the “hub” of your business, acting as a “content facilitator” when you’re out and about.

Cost: $161.00 (approx.)

Sennheiser MM50iP Stereo Headset

What: A solid pair of earphones.

Why: To pump out your favorite tunes at your desk (and shut out some noise from your co-workers).

Cost: $130.00 (approx.)

Sony Webbie HD Camera

What: An alternative the popular Flip HD Camcorder, shooting high-quality video on-the-go.

Why: Capture media events, press conferences, get behind-the-scenes footage all from one easy-to-use device.

Cost: $199 (approx.)

Nokia 3G Booklet

What: A clever Netbook from Nokia.

Why: Lugging a big laptop around isn't much fun, so this is a great piece of hardware to use on the move. It comes with a 3G modem and long battery life.

Cost: $600.00 (approx.)

Sony Digital Dictaphone - ICD - UX200

What: A digital dictaphone.

Why: Record press conferences and download direct to your computer via a built-in USB connection.

Cost: $99 (approx.)

BlackBerry Torch 9800

What: The best business smartphone out there.

Why: The QWERTY keyboard makes emailing a breeze, along with all the other features of this great handset from BlackBerry.

Cost: Varies

PowerMat

What: A wireless charging system for your electronic devices.

Why: With all the devices you are using you'll need some help to keep them on the go.

Cost: $50.00 (approx.)

A version of this article first appeared on the blog The Comms Corner.

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