Ebay bonanza

Just completed my third purchase of the day on Ebay. All work-related items - I've been looking into buying a photo studio tent for a while, and a three-part commission on setting up your own online shop for the Official Windows XP Magazine was the final catalyst. It's basically a small tent that ensures you get an even diffusion of light across whatever small thing it is you're shooting. I'd seen one model advertised for around £70, but picked one up on Ebay for £20 including postage. It's not the same make, so will probably turn out to be crap, but at least the next time I'm desperate for a hardware shot I might be able to provide it myself, and Toni will be able to use it to photograph her jewellery for selling online.

I also picked up a Bluetooth USB adapter for £8 (99p for the item, £7 for recorded postage!), and a cradle for my Axim PDA that will enable me to quickly charge it up. Bluetooth will come in useful for my various Q&A columns, plus I'll be able to synchronise my PDA will the laptop without having to hook them up.

I must remember to check out Ebay in the future, especially when I buy a new PC later this year when Windows Vista comes out. I think I'm allowed to buy/build a new one - my current PC will be four years old by the time it's superseded, although I shall keep it on as a Windows XP box. Failing that, it will no doubt find a new home, either here or elsewhere.