RV Products: July 2002

Compact Inverters

Xantrex Technology Inc. offers Jazz 150, Jazz 300, and Jazz 500 power inverters that convert 12-volt direct current (DC) electricity from a vehicle battery into alternating current (AC). The smallest of this line, the Jazz 150, plugs into a cigarette lighter or 12-volt outlet and can power products such as a laptop computer or a portable stereo. The Jazz 300 comes with two cables — one for connecting to a 12-volt outlet and the other for connecting directly to a battery. This unit can power a desktop computer or work light. The largest unit, the Jazz 500, connects directly to the battery and can run a power drill, a blender, or even a jigsaw.

All of the units include safety and protection features such as automatic shutdown to prevent excessive battery drain, and surge circuitry to handle the momentary surge of power that occurs when many electrical products are first turned on. The suggested retail prices for the Jazz products are $34.95 for the Jazz 150; $44.95 for the the Jazz 300; and $64.95 for the Jazz 500. The inverters are available from major automotive and electronics stores and from mass merchants.

For more information, contact:
Xantrex Technology Inc.
RV Group
8999 Nelson Way
Burnaby, BC
Canada V5A 4B5
(604) 422-8595
www.xantrex.com

While the Sit To Get Fit exerciser is said to be ideal for people traveling in RVs, it also offers those who sit anywhere for extended periods of time an opportunity to exercise. In fact, product literature says the device — which consists of foot pedals for a leg workout and elastic bands for the arms — is easy and fun to use. The lightweight exerciser is designed to sit unobtrusively on the floor and can be carried, stored, and retrieved easily. The Sit To Get Fit exerciser allows the user to do small exercises frequently, and can be used almost anywhere. The exercises may be done while watching television, playing video games, or enjoying other leisure activities.

For more information, contact:
Sit To Get Fit
705 Seymour St.
Kamloops, BC
Canada V2C 2H4
(877) 433-7536
www.sittogetfit.com

The new Generac Quietpact 40G RV generator is fully enclosed and comes complete with internal exhaust and muffler systems for easy installation and quiet operation. Designed primarily for type C motorhomes and towable RVs, the Quietpact 40G RV is rated at 3,600 watts and is powered by a Generac OHVI Industrial Series gasoline engine. The engine features an automotive-style pressure rotary pump lubrication system with a spin-on oil filter. Continual regulation of oil temperature and oil pressure helps to protect engine components from premature failure. The Quietpact 40G RV reportedly will power a 13,500-Btu air conditioner with 1,750 watts to spare for other appliances and lights.

For more information, contact:
Generac Power Systems Inc.
P.O. Box 297
Whitewater, WI 53190
(800) 333-1322
www.generac.com

The new DirtBuster Floor & Hand Vac from Black & Decker is a corded vacuum with a detachable hand-held power head. The DirtBuster can be used as an upright vacuum, in which case a surface-selector foot pedal maximizes vacuuming performance on both hard and carpeted surfaces. The lightweight power head detaches from the upright handle with a quick-release button for use as a hand-held vacuum to clean stairs, upholstery, and other surfaces that are hard to reach with a standard upright vacuum. A separate, flexible vacuum hose, along with a crevice tool and a dusting brush, store conveniently in a translucent compartment on the DirtBuster’s upright handle and attach to the power head for vacuuming hard-to-reach areas along baseboards, in corners, and under cabinets.

The bagless Double Action Filter System deflects dirt and debris off a primary filter screen into the dirt bowl and captures fine dust in a secondary pleated filter.

The DirtBuster is available as a 4.6-amp model or a 6.6-amp model. Both models are covered by a full two-year warranty. Suggested retail prices start at $59.99.

For more information, contact:
Black & Decker Consumer Services
P.O. Box 618
Hampstead, MD 21074
(800) 544-6986
www.blackanddecker.com

The Color-Ring light series by InterCon Marketing includes three lights with colored rings that can be changed to coordinate with the interior of a motorhome.

The 8006 Reading Spot light, with prices starting at $22, features a two-part base with an outer cover that hides the lamp’s fasteners. Measuring 3-1/4 inches high by 2-5/8 inches wide, the 8006 reading light can be fully adjusted for optimum positioning.

The 8007 Surface Spot fixture is made of high-impact plastic, meas ures 3-1/2 inches in diameter and 1 inch in height, and starts at $16.

The low-profile 8008 Recessed Spot light measures 3-1/5 inches in diameter with a 2-inch cutout. Prices for this light start at $14. An optional second outer ring for greater visual variety is available.

Xenon bulbs, which feature long life and cooler operation, are used in the Color-Ring light series. The light base colors are white, off-white, brass, chrome, sandstone, and brushed aluminum.  The ring colors are clear, white, off-white, blue, light green, dark green, amber, chrome, and gold. Rings cost $1 each. The D1224 dimmer ($72) to control the intensity of the lighting also is available.

For more information, contact:
InterCon Marketing Inc.
1540 Northgate Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34234
(941) 355-4488
Fax: (941) 355-1558
www.interconmktg.com

According to product literature, using Spin ‘N Stor produce bags results in fresh, crisp salad while at the same time eliminating wasted paper towels and the need for bulky salad spinners. These reusable bags take up virtually no storage room and they allow you to spin the salad dry, drain it, store it, and even serve it without dirtying extra bowls or containers.

To use Spin ‘N Stor bags, simply place freshly washed salad in the bag, hold the top, and spin the bag 10 to 12 turns. The water collects in a reservoir and then can be drained easily. After being fluffed, the salad can be stored in the bag or served at once. Spin ‘N Stor reusable bags are available in a package of 12 for $11.75, including shipping and handling.

For more information, contact:
Argee Corporation
P.O. Box 710222
Santee, CA 92072
(800) 449-3030
(619) 449-5050
Fax: (619) 449-8392
www.argeecorp.com

The TracNet Mobile Internet Server from KVH Industries offers high-speed mobile Internet access to vehicles traveling throughout North America. According to product literature, TracNet, which uses the same TracVision antennas that receive satellite television and the high-powered version of the DirecPC satellite Internet service, receives Internet downloads at speeds reaching 400 kilobits per second. This allows communication with others, and also the ability to receive weather and real-time traffic maps while traveling in a motorhome or other vehicle. Travelers in vehicles equipped with a Digital Video Broadcast-compatible TracVision system can switch from satellite television viewing to high-speed, fully functional Internet access without the need to purchase a new antenna. The TracNet Mobile Internet Server has a suggested price of $5,995.

For more information, contact:
KVH Industries Inc.
50 Enterprise Center
Middletown, RI 02842
(401) 847-3327
Fax: (401) 849-0045
www.kvh.com

Product literature calls the Kwik Kampfire “the ultimate convenience product for the RVer.” The patented device can provide a 22-inch flame for up to eight hours, which will take the chill off a cold campsite or can be used to cook a meal. This “campfire in a can” comes with an attached lid and can be used, extinguished, and reignited later. It is said to put off no smoke or sparks, and to be ideal for areas where open fires are prohibited. The Kwik Kampfire lights with the touch of a match and has a saddle wrap package for easy handling, vehicle storage, and reuse. The Kwik Kampfire has a suggested retail price of $12.99.

For more information, contact:
Innovative Sports Inc.
P.O. Box 2388
Greer, SC 29652
(800) 654-2507
(864) 879-3169
Fax: (864) 879-0887

CPFilms has introduced a new line of GILA RV window films. Available in four versions, these products are designed for do-it-yourself installation. According to product literature, Heat Control and Maximum Heat Control RV films restrict heat transfer without appreciably reducing visibility from inside the RV. This can result in more efficient heating and cooling and reportedly also blocks 99 percent of harmful ultraviolet rays. Privacy RV Film increases privacy while allowing 92 percent of the ambient light to enter the RV. The frosting of this film diffuses the light, making it ideal for bathrooms and bedrooms or to provide privacy and security for belongings. Glare Control RV Film is a reusable static-cling vinyl that can be placed on smooth glass, acrylic plastic such as Plexiglass, or plastic surfaces to reduce glare. The average retail price for a 3-foot-by-6.5-foot roll is $25 to $30.

For more information, contact:
GILA Products Division
P.O. Box 5068
Martinsville, VA 24115
(800) 528-4481
Fax: (276) 627-3012
www.gilafilms.com

The SuperEar sound enhancer from Sonic Technology lets those with light to moderate hearing impairments enjoy the sounds they’ve been missing. This includes listening to birds and other wildlife sounds, attending group gatherings, watching television, and many other activities. Product literature notes that the SuperEar facilitates one’s hearing just as a pair of binoculars aids one’s eyesight. The volume control allows up to 50 decibels of sound gain, yet the system requires just a single AAA alkaline battery. The 3-ounce unit can be mounted directly to binoculars; clipped to a pocket, belt, or lapel; or kept in a shirt pocket. Stereo headphones with replaceable foam ear pads promise to provide clear, crisp sound. The SuperEar comes with a one-year limited warranty and has a suggested retail price of $39.95.

For more information, contact:
Sonic Technology Products Inc.
120 Richardson St.
Grass Valley, CA 95945
(800) 247-5548
(530) 272-4607
Fax: (530) 272-4257
www.sonictechnology.com