By David Gewirtz
Back in December, we included a number of helpful Dremel tools in our holiday gift list articles. However, it was pointed out that we've never formally reviewed or rated the various tools we discussed in those articles. Dremel-style tools are incredibly useful around the computing shop. Here, then, is our formal review of three cool tools.
Essential tools for working at home and modding
If you're one of those people who are into modifying your PC, cutting the back out of your Tivo, or fixing stuff for your wife, the Dremel rotary tool is an essential tool. Most of us know about Dremels, but you might not know the Dremel's undergone a pretty radical transformation in the last few years.
We had the opportunity to take a look at two unique Dremel products, the Dremel 400 Series XPR and the Dremel Stylus. We also had a chance to look at a Dremel accessory, the Dremel Workstation
The Cordless Stylus
For basic tasks, the Cordless Stylus, shown in Figure A, is a wonder to use.
FIGURE A
When it's in its package, this thing looks like a dormant Cylon. (click for larger image)
I've had many Dremel products over the years, but the Cordless Stylus has been the most convenient. It comes with a docking cradle, just like your favorite PDA. It's got a lithium-ion battery, so you won't see the "memory effects" you might have seen with older cordless devices. And it fits your hand perfectly -- making it easy to do all sorts of delicate work.
I've generally used Dremels for tech-related projects. Back before Tivos had Ethernet, I once used an older model Dremel to cut a whole out of the back of the Tivo's case to pass an Ethernet cable that went to a hacked circuit board inside.
Since I've been married, however, I've found the Dremel indispensable for "Honey Do" projects (you know, the kind where your lovely wife asks, "Honey, can you do ...?"). What I like about the Stylus is that it's easy to pick up and it's cordless, so it's almost a no-brainer for fixit projects. Here's one example.
Denise had a little bookshelf that was glued together, but had subsequently come apart. As Figure B shows, the slot inside the shelf side was filled with glue. No amount of prying with a screwdriver would work, nor did I want to damage the side of the shelf.
FIGURE B
I'm stuck on you! (click for larger image)
