How many USB ports do you have on your computer? Got at least a few freed up by not connecting your USB boxer or Mr. Burns Web cam? $15 will get you multi-functional USB device to round out your ports and USB collection.

The USB Desk Assortment and Gift Set consists of a center base and four arms which sprout out of the center to offer different functions. You’ve got total combined offerings of, in no particular order, a USB 1.1 hub, a pen holder, a cup warmer, a mini lamp, a mini vacuum and an open port.

We’ve seen additions to your tap that will illuminate a colored light so you can visually distinguish between hot and cold running water before but Kenwood’s 21st century breakfast set takes things a step further.

The Response 1.7-liter kettle changes color as the water inside starts to get warm and then boil. As the temperature of the water approaches 80 degrees the kettle’s middle will cycle from blue to purple to pink to orange. A very handy feature lets you maintain a steady 80-degree temperature …

This low temperature Stirling engine is a cool little device. It’s a closed cycle engine, meaning that all the working gases that expand and make it work are contained inside the cylinder unlike combustion or steam engines that expel the gas after expanding. This efficient little engine runs on nothing more than a little bit of heat. Get the bottom plate a little warmer than the top one, set the flywheel in motion and it runs, keeping the flywheel turning as long as the temperature difference is …

So you get tired of drinking coffee from the tiny Styrofoam cups that they have at work and you bring in your own cup. It can hold more coffee, keeps it warmer longer, and just looks nicer on your desk. One of the subtle things that make your day just a little bit better.

Now, after a week or so you come in to work and cannot find your cup. After searching the office you find it dirty in some conference room. Someone else had actually used your own very special cup. You may …