Now, the PC Horns In on the TV

When is a computer not a computer? When it is hooked up to TVGenie, an external TV tuner that allows the user to watch a television program or video or play a favorite video game on the PC monitor.

An external signal converter, TVGenie is so smart that it doesn’t require the host computer to be turned on to play the TV or other programs. With this clever device, all you have to do is plug it into the PC monitor. The TVGenie offers full-screen viewing, and has RCA jacks for your VCR, stereo or game systems, a remote control and a cable jack.

The remote control allows the user to control channel and volume functions and also set alarm, sleep and timer functions.

For more information on TVGenie ($149) call AVerMedia in Fremont, Calif., at (800) 863-2332.

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Safety feature: Parents with babies and small children who must ride in rear-facing car seats in the back seat of their car will want to check out HindSight, a large mirror--with a teddy bear frame--that lets them see baby in back.

HindSight, a 9 1/2 by 7 1/4 mirror, attaches with Velcro fastenings to the top of the upholstery in the back seat of the car so parents can check on baby with a quick look in the rearview mirror.

HindSight comes with a free safety brochure on “Choosing Child Restraints.” The mirror (suggested retail, $15, plus shipping and handling) is available through Safe Beginnings catalog at (800) 598-8911 or through manufacturer Blue Ridge International Products Co. at (800) 222-9056.

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Even Better: Lite-Driver, a combination flashlight and screwdriver introduced last year, has been upgraded to a complete tool kit with a sturdy plastic carrying case.

The new Deluxe Lite-Driver screwdriver set includes six screw bits (three slot and three Phillips) and six sockets, ranging in size from three-sixteenths seven-sixteenths inches and a nut driver adapter. The high intensity bulb enables do-it-yourselfers to fix those hard-to-see or reach nuts and bolts. Two AA heavy-duty batteries are included.

To order ($26, including shipping and handling), call (800) 769-1396 or write M & E Enterprises, P.O. Box 37, Pleasantville, NY 10570.