(Business 2.0) – BUSINESS-TRIP BUDDY

Samsung A940 If lugging around a laptop is too cumbersome, this Samsung phone might ease your travels: It accesses the Web using broadband-speed EV-DO, transcribes speech into text notes, and even scans business cards. Its music and video downloading capability may even make those layovers go by a little faster. $250; www.samsung.com

THE MOUSE THAT ZOOMED

Microsoft Laser Mouse 6000 Whether for slaying zombies or slaving away on a PowerPoint deck, Microsoft's first wired laser mouse could be the smartest rodent for those who need precision. A magnifier button allows for one-click zooming, while a four-way scroll button glides your pointer across the screen. The thinner, more flexible cord promises to keep your mouse's tail tangle-free. $55; www.microsoft.com

GETAWAY VEHICLE

Intense Cycles Six Point Six If you're the type who likes to pick your own bike wheels, handlebars, and other parts, you may want to build your weekend escape around this endurance mountain-bike frame, which is available in multiple colors. Designed to cushion aggressive rides, the Six Point Six's suspension offers almost 7 inches of travel, with air-compression Fox DHX shocks that should turn any ride into smooth sailing. $1,950; www.intensecycles.com

PC PROTECTOR

Slappa Hardbody Pro Laptop Case Want to keep that pricey laptop safe from sidewalk drops and subway punks? This case's straps and combination lock aim to keep your computer secure, while the ethylene vinyl acetate sides--made of a condensed plastic foam--should rebuff assaults from heat, water, and sudden impacts. $130; www.slappa.com