In the fickle world of the tech enthusiast, where favourite gadgets come and go, the test of time is the only sure way for a device to prove its mettle. So we asked real gadget lovers to show us the products they can't live without.
Name
James Davies
Occupation
Software engineer
Location
London, England
WHY I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT MY
Sky +
Why did you buy it?
For the usual PVR benefits - easy recording, pausing and rewinding live TV.
What does it do for you?
This great PVR has changed my life. I don't watch adverts anymore. If there is something I really want to watch, I'll record it, but wait ten minutes in before watching it, so I can skip past adverts or half-time chit-chat. It's easy to record not just one show but the entire series using series link. This is a great feature for must-see TV like Match of the Day or addictive shows like Lost. There are no more arguments, since Sky+ can record two channels while you watch another off the hard drive.
Would you recommend it to others? Why?
It's brilliant. It works simply and puts you in control of your viewing and your life. It is so easy to use that my girlfriend has series-linked Charmed. If you don't fancy the Sky subscription you will have to try your luck with a dual-tuner Freeview PVR -- but I don't think they as good yet.
Name
James Davies
What I do
Software engineer
Where I live
London, England
Outside Interests
Gadgets
If you could design and create your ultimate product, what would it be?
A vacuum cleaner that puts away all my junk before it vacuums
What tech insider secret do you find most useful?
Make sure you never carry a Roomba one-handed from the back. That's the detachable dust collector
Do you have three you can't live without? Click here
