Targus 15"-17.3" CityGear Overnight Travel Roller Review

When it comes to traveling, we need a place to pack our gear and to keep it protected. Even if it’s just a weekend, I always have to take my laptop. But my change of clothes, toiletries, etc. won’t fit in my laptop bag, so I always bring two bags. But what if it could? Up for review is the Targus 15”-17.3” CityGear Overnight Travel Roller, with $145 MSRP.

 

Features and specs:

Multi-fit laptop pocket fits laptops 15” to 17.3" screens

Dedicated pocket for tablet

Patented DOME protection system protects devices from impact

Zipped mesh pockets and compartments for smart organization

Distinct compartments for your personal belongings and IT equipment

Heavy-duty carry handle

Telescoping handle

Color:  Black

Style:  Roller

Protection Level:  Good

Capacity:  25 Liters

Dimensions:  17.55" x 16.50" x 8.60" (L x W x H)

Weight:  7.18 lbs

Laptop Compartment (W x H):  41.02 cm x 4.19 cm x 28.78 cm

Tablet Compartment:  26.16 cm x 18.161 cm

Warranty:  Limited Lifetime Warranty

 

The Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller came in a basic brown box. But that wasn’t surprising, it is just a bag. Opening the box was a nice-looking black bag covered in a clear plastic bag. Materials used in the construction was mostly fabric, like you find in a lot of bags, with some plastic and metal. The quality materials used, along with the fit and finish, was very good.

 

I really like the design of the Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller. It has a plastic skeleton at the back for structural support and solid wheels with metal axels. It seems built well to live up to its lifetime warranty. It also has the features needed for an all-in-one bag. It’s designed with all the features needed for a short weekend.

 

The Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller has all the features needed for a short weekend trip. The larger back compartment is big enough to hold at least one change of clothes, with padding for personal gear. The zippers are also lockable, for security of your gear. In front of the garment compartment is a padded compartment for up to a 17-inch laptop. On the front is a small padded pocket for a smartphone or small tablet. The large front pocket is your portable office. There’s a large padded pocket for a large tablet, pen/pencil holders, and a zippered pocket for smaller items like sticky notes and paper clips. It really provides everything you need.

 

I also happened to have a quick weekend trip that I wanted to travel light for. And the bag was small enough to be a carry-on. While snug, it actually fit under the seat in front of me, to stow as my personal item. The garment compartment had enough room for my change of clothes, and padded sections for my electronic items.

 

The Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller is the type of bag that everyone should have for quick trips. And this one should be on their short list. Not only is it well made to provide years of use, it’s supported by Targus’ Lifetime Warranty. Based on its design, features, quality and performance, the Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller has earned our Highly Recommended Award. For more info, check out their website at www.targus.com.

ASUS Announces the Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C)

ASUS Announces the Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) This fresh, stylish laptop empowers productivity and fun for a budget-friendly price

Fremont, California, April 19, 2024 — ASUS today announced a new addition to the ASUS Chromebook family – the 14-inch ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C). Featuring the highly efficient MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor and an all-day battery life, this dynamic laptop is primed to boost productivity and fuel entertainment.   Style and flexibility, elevated ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) embodies pure style, packaging a trendy look and feel in an attractive new Gravity Gray colorway. This creates a refined aesthetic and elegance that will fit any environment, be it for study, work, or relaxation. The laptop is also extremely versatile – featuring a 180˚ lay-flat hinge that makes it easy to share visuals and ideas when working with friends, colleagues, or clients. Everyday hygiene is also a high priority for the CM14, with the keyboard, touchpad, and palm rest areas all protected by ASUS Antimicrobial Guard[i] . This factory-applied treatment is scientifically proven to inhibit bacterial growth by up to 99% over a 24-hour period, keeping the laptop cleaner and safer to promote overall wellbeing for the user. The keyboard is also spill-resistant[ii] and can cope with up to 405 cc of water without harm. In other words, minor spillages can be easily drained, cleaned, and dried.   Remote experiences, leveled up ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) has been engineered for the expanding world of hybrid work and study and is therefore equipped with lots of features to help users communicate and stay safe beyond traditional work and learning environments. For example, Face Auto Exposure, or Face AE – a newly-integrated technology that provides fresh, uplifting experiences when taking pictures or video conferencing with the CM14’s integrated webcam – tracks the user’s face and adjusts the light according to the brightness of the environment to ensure clearer, sharper images. An integrated physical privacy shutter is also included, allowing users to cover the webcam for peace of mind.   Everyday productivity, boosted Powered by the latest MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor, ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) delivers excellent performance for responsive experiences with favorite apps, from productivity tools to entertainment. Combined with the full capabilities of Google Workspace and other productivity apps found on Google Play, the laptop offers access to everything needed to get stuff done in the modern world. Additionally, an energy-efficient design means that the CM14 has the stamina to empower on-the-go productivity up to 15 hours on a single charge[iii] – enough for a full workday and beyond. It’s also primed for connection perfection, with integrated dual-band WiFi 6 to ensure stable signals and superfast speeds that will load online content in the blink of an eye. This desirable connectivity capability is further boosted by exclusive ASUS technologies, including the ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS[iv] , to ensure greater speed, stability, and range.   The best of ChromeOS ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) benefits from out-of-the-box access to Google Play, complete with its rich library of apps, games, music, movies, TV, books, and more. The laptop also enables uninterrupted automatic updates [v] and benefits from built-in virus protection, seamlessly keeping users safe, secure, and always up to date. Each purchase of a CM14 carries an offer to redeem a 12-month Google One[vi] subscription. The membership includes 100 GB of cloud storage to use across Google Drive, Gmail, Google Photos, and many other benefits – all in one shareable family plan.   Military-grade strength With structural reinforcements to boost chassis strength, ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) is solidly built to provide durability – meeting the rigorous MIL-STD 810H US military standard[vii] . Additionally, the laptop undergoes stringent in-house testing by ASUS – including panel-pressure, shock and drop tests –to ensure maximal toughness, so there’s no need to worry about everyday knocks and bumps. Sustainability is also embraced, with the inclusion of multiple recycled materials to create a product that is more eco-conscious overall. AVAILABILITY & PRICING ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) is now available starting MSRP $299.00 on the ASUS Store  and  Best Buy. Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information. ASUS Store: https://shop.asus.com/us/asus-chromebook-cm14-cm1402c.html Best Buy: https://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-14-chromebook-laptop-mediatek-8186-4gb-memory-64gb-emmc-gravity-gray/6570143.p?skuId=6570143 ASUS USA Pressroom:  https://www.asus.com/us/news/ ASUS USA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asus.n.america/ ASUS USA X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/ASUSUSA SPECIFICATIONS[VIII]   ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402CM2A)   Operating system   ChromeOS   Processor   MediaTek Kompanio 520   Graphics   Arm Mali G52 MC2 @ 800MHz   Memory   4 GB LPDDR4X 8 GB LPDDR4X   Storage   64 GB eMMC   Display   14.0" FHD (1920 x 1080), LCD, 16:9, TN, anti-glare, 220 nits, 77% screen-to-body ratio, 45% NTSC   I/O ports   2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C® (Full-function, support PD + Alt. mode)   1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A,   1 x microSD card reader   1 x 3.5 mm audio combo jack   1 x Nano Kensington lock   Video camera   720p HD camera, webcam shutter   Wireless   Dual-band 2x2 WiFi 6 (802.11ax) + Bluetooth® 5   Audio   2 x built-in speakers   2 x multi-array microphones   Weight   3.2 lbs   Dimensions   12.78 x 8.93 x 0.72 inch (32.46 x 22.67 x 1.83 cm)   AC adapter   USB Type-C® 45W; Output: 15V DC, 3A, 45W; Input: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz universal   Battery   42 Wh, 2-cell   Keyboard & touchpad   Full-size backlit keyboard with 1.5 mm key travel; spill-resistant to 405cc* *Quantity used during testing, with duration of 3 minutes   NumberPad   N/A   Security   Titan C security chip   Webcam shutter   Kensington lock slot   Certificates   ENERGY STAR®           ### About ASUS ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, ASUS is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies for tomorrow, garners more than 11 awards every day for quality, innovation, and design, and is ranked among Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies.   [i] The antimicrobial treatment is tested by an independent third-party laboratory according to the ISO 22196 standard (measurement of antimicrobial activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces), using bacterial cultures that include Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with antimicrobial activity (R) result of R > 2. R = 2 indicates a 99% reduction in bacterial activity compared to an untreated surface. The antimicrobial treatment is registered by the U.S. EPA and authorized under EU BPR.   [ii] The ASUS Chromebook CM14 series keyboard is spill-resistant, not waterproof. Water damage is possible if the product is submerged or exposed to large amounts of liquids for long periods of time. ASUS standard limited warranty does not cover problems resulting from accidents such as water damage. To prevent water damage resulting from large spills or other accidents, ASUS recommends turning off the notebook, then tilting the laptop to drain away the excess liquid, wipe it off and let it dry for at least 24 hours.   [iii] Based on Chromium OS power Load Test. Battery performance is based on a mix of standby, web browsing and other use. Charging time requires the battery to be at least 5% charged, with the device inactive and using the included charger. Actual battery life depends on usage, specifications, applications, and environment, among other factors.   [iv] ASUS Chromebook CM14 series is certified with ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS. Devices certified with ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS feature WiFi 6 and offer enhanced WiFi stability when USB 3.2 Gen 2 interference is present, allowing users to stream smoothly when they are up to 225 meters away or more from a router.   [v] Auto-updates and auto-backup require an internet connection. Chromebook software updates generally arrive every 4-6 weeks but are occasionally delayed to ensure optimal user experience upon rollout.   [vi] Google One availability varies according to country. Please check with your local ASUS retailer for details.   [vii] The testing regime includes the requirements of military-grade standards and varies depending on device. MIL-STD-810 testing is conducted on selected ASUS products only. Note that the MIL-STD-810 testing helps to ensure the quality of ASUS products but does not indicate a particular fitness for military use. The test is performed under laboratory conditions. Any damage caused by attempts to replicate these test conditions would be considered accidental and would not be covered by the standard ASUS warranty. Additional coverage is available with ASUS Premium Care.    [viii] Specifications, content, and product availability are all subject to change without notice and may differ from country to country. Actual performance may vary depending on applications, usage, environment, and other factors. Full specifications are available at http://www.asus.com.

FORTUNE and FORTUNE World’s Most Admired Companies are registered trademarks of FORTUNE Media IP Limited and are used under license. ASUS Computer International 48720 Kato Road Fremont, CA, 94538, USA Visit us at asus.com

iFi Announces Partnering with Erikson Consumer/ JAM Industries for Wide Canadian Distribution

iFi Announces Partnering with Erikson Consumer / JAM Industries for Wide Canadian Distribution   Southport, England— April 3, 2024—iFi audio, a leading provider of audio solutions, proudly announces a significant milestone in its distribution journey. Having secured the hearts and minds of well-informed, tech savvy, Canadian hi-fi enthusiasts, iFi is expanding their scope into wider commercial channels. “We are excited to announce a new partnership in Canada with Erikson Consumer, a division of Exertis | JAM,” explains Miles Roberts, Global Head of Sales at iFi audio. “With a strong presence in the Hi-Fi, pro audio, and consumer tech markets, Erikson Consumer is the ideal partner to support us as we expand into new channels and amplify our presence in existing markets.”   Previously iFi partnered with Motet Distribution, but the evolution of the market demanded adjustments that would benefit both customer needs and the company’s expansion. “We are immensely grateful to Motet for their invaluable partnership over the years. They have been instrumental in our growth and success," says Roberts. "With Erikson Consumer, we see an exciting opportunity to take our business to new heights. Their expertise and extensive reach in the audio and consumer tech sectors align perfectly with our goals."   iFi audio believes this strategic move will sharpen the focus of sales and marketing channels, to enhance their ability to service their customers and partners more effectively. “iFi has successfully tackled ‘widening the hi-fi tent’ to meet the needs of budding enthusiasts, as well as satisfying the most demanding, performance-seeking audiophiles,” says Enzo Morelli V.P. Lux/Ci at Erikson Consumer. ​ “This is iFi. Accomplishing this across a growing number of categories, in a no-nonsense approach to delivering tech with a first-rate consumer experience, is what makes iFi special, and what makes it an exciting new partnership for me,” adds Morelli. ​ ​   The transition to Erikson Consumer represents a promising step forward as iFi advances their mission to provide cutting-edge audio solutions that enrich the lives of their customers. "With Erikson Consumer we look forward to bringing the world of audio to new audiences and delivering exceptional products and services,” Miles concludes.   To learn more about Erikson Consumer, please visit https://www.eriksonconsumer.com/.   To learn more about iFi, please visit https://ifi-audio.com/.   ​About Erikson Consumer ​ ​Erikson Consumer, an Exertis | JAM business, is one of Canada’s largest independent distributors of audio & electronic solutions with a portfolio fortified by the industry’s most renowned brands of multimedia, luxury audio, home comfort and mobile audio products.   Its product selection includes award-winning brands that can be found in all key national and regional chains, furniture/appliance and specialized independents. Erikson Consumer takes pride in offering clients product training from introductory to technical levels, supported by dedicated sales and marketing teams prepared to assist before and after sales, with stock readily available from a state-of-the-art 250,000 square foot warehouse facility.   With over fifty years of experience, Erikson Consumer has grown and diversified, providing the Canadian marketplace with a resourceful, reliable, and innovative distribution network.       About iFi   iFi audio is a subsidiary of the AMR group (Abbingdon Music Research Group)—an audio equipment manufacturer based in Southport, UK. iFi audio produces several award-winning DACs and amplifiers, as well as other accessories for computer and home audio. For more information, please visit— https://ifi-audio.com/