The Griffin iBeam adds more functionality to the iPod you always carry with you. It's a snap-on flashlight that attaches to your iPod, iPod mini or dock connector. Add a little light to the stuation next time you're in a dark parking lot, or looking for something in the car at night. It also includes a class IIIA laser pointer -- handy for iPod-friendly presentations and other, less professional pursuits. The laser pointer's beam is so powerful it can be seen over one-quarter of a mile away. The iBeam is fun, functional and easy on the budget.

While your iPod won't start washing your dishes anytime soon, Griffin is committed to making sure it does just about everything else. The iBeam is the latest manifestation of this effort, turning your iPod into a combination flashlight/laser pointer, which is a handy combo for people who take their iPods everywhere. The package actually consists of two different attachments, both of which fit into an iPod's headphone and remote ports (they only work with docking models, including the iPod mini). Griffin recommends using the iBeam flashlight to find keys in the dark or to locate a keyhole when the porch light is off, while the laser pointer makes a good business aid during presentations. The accessories are compact and smooth, with shapes that seamlessly complement the iPod's contemporary design.

Both the flashlight and the laser pointer are easy to use and are a truly useful iPod accessory.

Features and Performance
Both the flashlight and the laser pointer are easy to use--simply snap on and point. They're also free of buttons and switches, turning on when connected and turning off when removed. And because they draw their power from the iPod itself, users don't need to worry about batteries.

We tested the flashlight attachment first, and it performed nicely. It emits a moderate amount of light with a relatively soft, wide beam. The beam certainly wouldn't make it as a camping flashlight, as it's too diffused to light a clear path, but it's more than adequate as a keychain-type light. iPod owners will find it particularly effective when they need to examine items in poorly lit rooms, such as the words written above the buttons on stereo components.

The laser pointer attachment, which is equipped with a class IIIa laser, works even better. Whether you're using it to enhance a PowerPoint performance or merely entertain your restless kitties, the bright red laser shows no signs of dimming. Both iBeam accessories also include snap-on caps with small holes for attaching to a keychain. This is a nice touch, as it would be easy to lose the iBeam items otherwise. --Rivers Janssen

Pros

• Portable and easy to use, with no setup or batteries required
• Flashlight excels at close-in tasks, such as finding keys in the dark
• Class IIIa laser produces crisp point
• Handy snap-on caps for keychain storage

Cons

• Flashlight doesn't have the power to light a path

What's in the Box
iBeam flashlight, iBeam laser pointer, two snap-on caps.