tech e blog

In the Star Wars universe, Stormtroopers are the elite soldiers of the Galactic Empire. Similar to Imperial-class Star Destroyers and TIE fighters, stormtroopers served as ever present reminders of the absolute power of Emperor Palpatine. These faceless enforcers of the New Order were considered an extension of the Emperor's will, and thus they often used brutal tactics as a way to keep thousands of star systems throughout the galaxy in line. However, when they aren't working, you can find them doing a variety of things, such as cleaning up, going out with friends, etc. Continue reading to see all the activities.

You read that right, there is a reason why you'll never see the iconic brown trucks make a left turn while on their delivery routes. In 2004 UPS announced that it would save fuel by minimizing left turns. Because drivers are idle at intersections while waiting to make left turns, UPS developed software that routes the day's packages with preference to right turns. Since UPS operates a fleet of over 96,000 ground vehicles, the fuel savings are considerable. In 2005, UPS eliminated 464,000 miles (747,000 km) from its travel and saved 51,000-gallons of fuel. Continue reading to see what happens when a wild turkey meets an unlucky UPS driver on the street.

For those with an extra $60,000 to spare and have always wanted a real flying, fire-breathing dragon, Hammacher Schlemmer has just the gadget for you. This dragon is powered by a half-gallon of jet fuel or kerosene and has a plywood, epoxy glass and Nomex-basedbody. It can take to the skies for up to 10 minutes and hit speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. Continue reading for two videos and more information.

Let's face it, throwing a piece of crumpled paper at a co-worker gets boring after a while. Introducing the Nerf Nuke. Simply load it with 80 darts and activate the arming mechanism, to fire them up to 30 feet when they hit. Best of all, it's a tripod-mounted, direct-plunger system for maximum range and efficacy. Continue reading for a video and more information.

UDI's U818A RC Quadcopter is currently being offered for only $87.39 shipped, today only, originally priced at $499.99. It features an excellent 2.4GHz transmitter and an on-board camera, 6 axis gyro (3 gyro + 3 accelerometer), built-in stabilization, and torquey rotors, which offer instant changes of direction and maneuverability. Product page. Continue reading for two videos and more information.

Notable features:

• 6-axis gyro with posture control - Integrated design guarantee the precise positioning of the aircraft.


• 4-channel function provides stable flying and easy operation. Video Camera FPV.


• High capacity battery and strong power motors enable the helicopter to fly much longer and more efficiently.


• Charging time is about 120 minutes while flight duration is about 7-9 minutes.


• Modular Design makes it easy to install and repair. Remote Distance is up to 30m.

Syma's S107G 3.5 Channel RC Helicopter is currently being offered for only $16.89, this week only, originally priced at $69.99. Its metal frame has proven to withstand dozens of crashes, and it charges directly from the controller, which is powered by "AA" batteries. Product page. Continue reading for a video review and more information.

Notable features:

• Stable Flight Characteristics.


• Easy to Fly.


• Great for Beginners.


• Battery Type: Lithium Polymer (LiPO Battery).


• Motor Type: Brushed.

Believe it or not, the McDonalds Happy Meal was not the first instance of providing small toys to children with meals. In Canada, there was something called "Treat of the Week", where a different toy was available free on request each week, and continued after the Happy Meal was introduced in 1979. Happy Meal toys have become increasingly elaborate in recent years. Here are a few of the coolest from the 1980s. Continue reading to see them all.

Nicolas Mee & Co, an Aston Martin Heritage Dealer from West London has unveiled the world's smallest functional Aston Martin: the DB Junior. It's inspired by the legendary Aston Martin DB models of the 1960s and boasts composite coachwork sitting on a sturdy steel box-section chassis, leather or vinyl seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel and hydraulic disc brakes. Continue reading for a video and more information.

LEGO fans that can't get enough of Marvel's X-Men rejoice! Cuusoo has just unveiled a brand new X-Mansion set that comes complete with an underground Danger Room and mutant minifigs. According to LEGO artists Glen Bricker and DarthKy, "the intent of this project is to campaign Lego and Marvel to produce a Lego set worthy of representing one of the most famous institutions in the history of Comic Books, the X-Mansion." Continue reading for more pictures and information.

Action figure fans who love Star Wars rejoice! Custom action figure maker Sillof has completed his line of "West Wars" toys, and they feature 10 characters from the Star Wars universe, including Darth Vader (Sheriff Akan Vardas) and Luke Skywalker. Click here to view the first image in this week's funny exam answers and school pictures gallery. Continue reading to see all of the figurines.