Cutting-edge COOL : Cyberspace gadgets jazz up the venerable old game - golf gadgets - Brief Article

Golf Digest, Dec, 2000 by Topsy Siderowf

Along with divot and dogleg, words like digital and download are becoming part of a golfer's vocabulary. Silicon Valley technology is permeating our fairways and practice facilities. The markets are flooded with futuristic gadgets for golf--each promising to improve your game and make your round more enjoyable. We've selected the best of these high-tech devices, but offer them with the caveat that there are no quick fixes in golf. Tiger has shown that old-fashioned hard work and practice still work best.

DynaFlex powerball

Hand/wrist gyro exerciser propelled by an internal generator. The faster the gyro spins, the brighter its LED lights shine. 800-480-8084, $40.

Hyper Golf

Video game by Smartplanet with real swing action. Practice at the range, or compete on nine- and 18-hole courses. Measures your distance with any of 13 clubs. 818-991-9199, $20.

Golfwits, IntelliGolf

Software (877-870-4044 for GolfWits, $70; 800-239-8227 for IntelliGolf, $40) that captures round statistics using handheld computers like the Compaq Aero (888-291-7997, $300).

Personal Cooling System and Warm+Cool System

Neck pieces that cool (left), ($50) or heat and cool ($70). Developed by Sharper Image, they are lightweight enough to wear on the course. 800-344-4444.

Q Link pendant

By neutralizing the effects of electronic magnetic fields, QLink says wearers will show an increase in energy, mental performance and concentration on and off the course. 800-246-2765, $129-$299 depending on model.

Sony mini camcorder (TRV20)

Compact camcorder with digital still photo capability; 311/42-inch color LCD screen for instant viewing. Download to PC, VCR or wide-screen TV. 888-965-SONY, $1,700.

I-Zone Instant Pocket Camera

Polaroid's latest minicamera, sleek and small, shoots out sticky-backed photos of your swing in 60 seconds. 800-343-5000, $25; film, $7.

Yardage Pro laser rangefinder

Measures distances up to 600 yards by means of sophisticated circuitry and a high-speed clock. This Compact 600 version can be tucked into your bag. 800-423-3537, $350.

Stat Tracker II, Caddy4X

Digital scorecards that record information--from courses to sand saves--for one to four players. Download to PC. Stat Tracker 877-700-STAT, $100; Caddy4X 888-507-8548, $40.

Olympus WideView binoculars

Allows spectators to see more of the action with clarity and brightness. Check out the grain on the green from a distance. Ergonomic, non-slip rubber handgrips make for easy holding. Adjusts to individual eyesight. 800-645-8160, $145.

Golf Universal Remote

Works with most TVs, VCRs, cable boxes and satellites . Complete with sound effects--like the swish of the swing when you change channels. 631-981-1600, $43.