New tech gadgets for sisters on the go - trendspotting

Whether you're juggling business meetings, parties or doctor's appointments for the kids, these new gadgets can add fun and organization to your life. To find the best deals, search on-line or check your local paper.

PORTABLE DVD PLAYERS

Price: $299-$699 Look for units that also play CDs and MP3's. Great for keeping the kids occupied during long road trips or for you when you have to travel for business. And when you reach your destination, you can connect your DVD player to your television.

Audiovox's DV1680 has a 6.8-inch screen and 3-hour battery life, and Panasonic's DVD-LV70 has a 7-inch-wide screen and, 4-hour playback time.

MULTITASKING CELL PHONES

Price: $299-$599 Newer cell phones let you phone, E-mail, log on to the Web and fax all in one compact unit. The Nokia 9290 Communicator allows you to send E-mails with attachments from programs like Excel and Word. It's compatible with most PC programs. The Motorola A388 is like a PDA: It keeps track of all your important dates and contacts with an alarm clock and calendars.

PDAS (PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS)

Price: $100-$399 The new all-in-one calendar, phone book, calculator and notepad devices now come with Internet access and E-mail capability, Newer PDAs like the Palm i705 and Handspring Treo 90 also have a built-in keyboard for easy typing. If you don't need a lot of extras, try the Visor Edge (about $169) or Palm Pilot M105 (about $99).

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