techTalk: Tech for your grad

As graduation draws nearer for the class of 2008, parents and relatives are gathering ideas of gifts to give to commemorate this passage into the adult world.

What better way to celebrate sending a child to college than giving him or her the tools needed to be successful. Here are a few ideas to help stimulate learning, and much-needed play time, in a college environment.

Apple iMac

Apple’s iMac stands out in looks just as it does in price and power. An “all-in-one” desktop computer, it is easy to set up, move and operate. It runs on Apple’s own OSX operating system and comes preloaded with programs for video editing, music organizing, photography and more.

Even the lowest-end iMac stands tall against a similarly priced PC from competitors. The iMac will even run purchased copies of Windows XP and Vista.

What: Apple iMac Intel Core 2 Duo

Where: www.apple.com

How much: Starting at $1,199

Dell Inspiron

Dell’s Inspiron series boasts the conveniences of a notebook computer while offering many different levels of computing power versus price.

Each notebook can be customized with additional components to boost speed and can even feature a colorful clam shell. The lowest end system will not impress anyone with the speed or usability, but the higher end models will definitely power through the most complicated of programs. The Inspiron computers do not come prepackaged with photo, video and music software. Any custom programs will cost extra.

What: Dell Inspiron Series Notebooks

Where: www.dell.com

How much: From $649 for low end to $1,548 for higher end

Canon ZR800

The Canon ZR800 digital camcorder is the perfect gift for the blooming videographer. The camcorder is an entry-level device, but its features and price make it hard to pass up. It uses MiniDV tapes and boasts easy-to-use features and affordability. The camera comes complete with Firewire output for easy video capturing to a computer for editing.

What: Canon ZR800 MiniDV Camcorder

Where: www.canon.com

How much: Around $175 to $200

Apple iPod

Apple’s iPod is on the top of many college-bound teens’ lists. The MP3 player is the most successful portable music and video player ever developed. The iPod family comes in many different sizes and price points. For years it has been one of the most coveted pieces of tech.

What: Apple iPod

Where: www.apple.com

How much: From $150 and up depending on memory size

LG Scoop

If your graduate is already an Alltel or Sprint customer, or needs a new cell-phone plan, the LG Scoop may be the perfect gift. The Scoop is an entry-level smart phone with full qwerty keyboard and color screen. Instant messaging is easy and included. The phone is stylish and is sure to turn heads when in use.

What: LG Scoop

Where: www.alltel.com

How much: Depends on the plan purchased

Nintendo Wii

For game time after classes are finished, graduates would love to relax in front of a Nintendo Wii. The Wii is a gaming console with a firm game library already established. Games will appeal to hard-core and casual gamers alike. The Wii is the perfect system for multiplayer action and perfect for dorm rooms where playing Mario Kart is much safer than other after-class activities.

What: Nintendo Wii

Where: www.nintendo.com

How much: $249