Gizmodo: Microwave

Mobile Microwave Brings Food Nuking Into Your Automobile

Elaine Chow — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EDT

Roadsters who want their Hot Pockets on the go can now invest in a In-Car Microwave Oven! This mobile meal maker is made of a robust steel construction, boasts an LED screen with touchscreen operation, and can be powered either via your 12 volt cigarette lighter socket or directly by the car battery. The company supplying this modern marvel warns that your vehicle had better already be started before using the direct-from-car-battery method, lest your battery become discharged. Also, going with the 12 volt option means a cup of coffee will take roughly six minutes to heat up. But even slowly nuked food has got to be better than some of those roadside dining options, right? Get yours imported from the U.K. for $167. [Product Page via Cnet]

Innovative Microwave Material Helps Cook Food Twice As Fast So You Can Get Back To Being Lonely

Jason Chen — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:10:00 EDT

Researchers in Japan and at Penn State have come up with a ceramic material that allows people to heat up their food twice as fast, allowing them to spend less time staring at the microwave and more time living their (read: our) rich, fulfilling lives. The new cookers are made up of 20% magnetite and 80% petalite, which unlike traditional bowls, heat up alongside the food so that the food isn't passing off heat by warming up the bowl. As an added bonus, the container stays hot for 15 minutes, meaning you really need oven mitts to transport this thing, Jason Statham style. If you can't wait for technology to catch up here, it's already on sale in Japan. [Live Science]

Weird Microwave "Robot" Makes Perfect S'mores

Sean Fallon — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 18:20:00 EDT

S'mores are definitely one of my all-time favorite snack foods, and this weird Progressive International Microwavable S’Mores Maker claims to make two perfect s'mores in 30 seconds flat because the little "arms" keep the marshmallows from expanding too much. I still think you need a fire to make perfect s'mores, not some gadget that looks like a melted Mr. Potato Head—but if you insist on throwing your money away, the PIMSM can be had for $6.95. [Amazon via Unclutterer via Technabob]

Democratic Convention Protestors Will Be Blasted With Ray Guns and Sticky Goo

Benny Goldman — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 13:17:05 EDT

If you're unhappy that Hillary Clinton lost the nomination to Barack Obama, you better think twice before showing your displeasure at next month's Democratic National Convention. According to CNN, the city of Denver is purchasing tons of high-tech weapons to use on unruly DNC protesters, which may include goo-guns that shoot an impossible-to-escape sticky film, sonic ray guns that produce a blood-curdling blast of noise, and a microwave device that can make you feel like your skin is burning. The ACLU is suing the city to see what weapons will end up in the final arsenal, but if you're going to the Denver, be prepared; this could make the 1968 DNC look like a picnic. [CNN]

Microwaving, So Easy A Child...

Mark Wilson — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:00:00 EDT

"No, I asked you will it blend?"

Think you can do better? (You probably can.) Hit the comments. [Defective Yeti via BBGadgets]

Gorgeous Shots Of Microwaved CDs

Mark Wilson — Sat, 17 May 2008 15:00:00 EDT

We haven't nuked a CD since the '90s either, but maybe that's only because we didn't have the right camera setup to capture the digital destruction in all of its glory. The Wacky Archives features a few remarkable shots of our ex-favorite pastime and we strongly recommend it as an opulently wasteful way to burn three minutes of your precious Saturday. The microwave, however, paid the ultimate price:

...like a robot exploded in there, its silver blood splattered with Pollockian imprecision. [Wacky Archives via MAKE]

LG Mates Microwave and Toaster, Creates FrankenMicroToaster

matt buchanan — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EDT

I need this. It's a microwave with a built-in toaster, combining two of the three appliances I actually use into a single smorgasbord of food-warming convenience, perfect for my munchkin-sized counter. The other is a George Forman-esque grill—all other electric kitchenwares are frivolous and silly. In fact, if LG could somehow convert the top of this mutant puppy into one, or bolt a steak toaster onto the other side, this would be the most harmonious kitchen appliance ever, the true kitchen in a box. I'm waiting. [core77]

Xbox 360: Will it Microwave?

Haroon Malik — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 17:15:00 EDT

It's Sunday, and it just wouldn't be right if a group of destructive loons were not prepared to put their faulty, plausibly repairable Xbox 360 into a microwave. Naturally, the mob breathed in the ensuing toxic fumes happily, all in the name of ~~science~~ comedy and cheap thrills. That kind of devotion we must salute, but for the tortured Xbox 360, our heart melts, much like its innards did. Oh, the humanity. Check out the video then hit the link for a slew of shots of the despicable carnage. [Microwave Science]

Bagetty Wiener Microwave

Jason Chen — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 13:20:00 EDT

There's apparently a market out there catering to people who don't want to use a one-size-fits-all microwave, as evidenced by the Ultra-Mini Microwave we reviewed yesterday, and this Bagetty elongated microwave. Instead of being relatively boxy like traditional models, this thing is long and tube-shaped, making it perfect for hot dogs, wieners, franks, sausages, bratwurst and other long meat. It's just a concept, meaning you won't have to make the very difficult decision of whether or not you want to purchase one. [Martin Zampach via The Design Blog via DVice]

Lightning Review: iWavecube Ultra-Mini Microwave

Sean Fallon — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EDT

The Gadget: The iWavecube microwave from iCube Designs and Sharper Image is billed as the "world's first and only personal portable microwave." A Ramen-ready space-saver that is perfect for a foodaholic that lacks the time or the skills to cook a proper meal.

Price:$129.95

Verdict: It works, but with only 600 watts of power, you are going to need a little patience. It is going to take about 4 minutes and 30 seconds to cook something as substantial as a Hot Pocket or popcorn, which is significantly longer than most standard microwaves. Still, it gets the job done—and despite its diminutive size (10.5"x12"x10" with an oven capacity of 8.5"x 8.0"x 5" and a total weight of 12 pounds) it can handle most normal microwave food with no problems. I was also surprised to find that it was whisper quiet when running. All in all it is a solid device, but there is no doubt that the price is a bit steep. But, if space is limited and you have a thing for gadgets with handles, the iWavecube is a viable option—and I wouldn't wait around too long if you know what I mean. [Shaper Image]

Mini Microwave is Nearly Useless...Unless You Are a Big Fan of Ramen

Sean Fallon — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 20:30:31 EST

Don't get me wrong, I love the idea of a mini microwave. But looking at this thing, I find it hard to justify spending $130 just so I can conveniently heat up some crappy instant coffee or some Ramen noodles at my desk. However, if the manufacturer decides to make a USB-powered version, we will talk. Measures 10.5"x12"x10." [Product Page via Random Good Stuff]

Microwaveable Teddy Bear Keeps Babies Toasty

Jason Chen — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 20:00:58 EDT

Why hand your kid a room temperature bear when you can hand them a microwaved bear and show them you love them as much as a kid that's not adopted? This bear, which costs $20, is specially made with microwavable components that keep it from going up in flames when nuked—something that's definitely not child-friendly. Plus, it's even coated with a "relaxing lavender" scent, all the better for keeping baby asleep so you can work on making a little brother or sister for him. [Gizoo via Shiny Shiny]

LG Combination Microwaves Pleases the Convergence Fiends

Travis Hudson — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 20:00:40 EDT

How about a little coffee or bagel with your Hot Pocket? LG has combination microwaves that include either a six-cup coffee maker or a bagel toaster actually attached to the microwave. The units are all stainless steel and go for $150 or so.

So is it designed with the small apartment in mind? If so, LG may want to think of dropping that price. My poor, studio-living, tuition-paying ass will never buy a $150 combination appliance. Even if it is the most beautiful bagel-toasting, Hot Pocket-nuking, coffee-brewing, stainless-steel appliance ever. Oh, who am I kidding?/me gets out credit card. –Travis Hudson

LG Combination Microwaves [Apartment Therapy]

WaveBox Car Microwave for the Larger Pimp My Car Crowd

Jason Chen — Fri, 02 Mar 2007 21:00:54 EST

Every car purchase we've made over the years has been kind of a settle. That's because despite intensive car shopping, we've never been able to find a vehicle with a microwave inside. WAVEBOX TO THE RESCUE!

With the WaveBox, we're free to microwave popcorn, hot dogs, or even a steak no matter where we are. And best of all there's going to be no popcorn smell, because we can just roll down the windows! Thanks WaveBox! Where do I send my check or money order? – Jason Chen

Product Page [Wave Box via Book of Joe]

Turbochef Speedcook Oven: Air and Waves Do a 12-Pound Turkey in 45 Minutes

Brian Lam — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 16:20:02 EST

The international builder's show just went down, and among the home automation madness, it was impossible to miss this oven's claim that it can cook a 12-pound bird in 45 minutes. That's 3 hours faster than a standard oven. They say it uses Airspeed technology, but from the diagram and flash animations, I'd say it runs a bunch of hot air over your food, like a hair dryer, to make stuff cook faster. Hmm...microwaved, hairdryed bird?

Very fancy. For me, the end game is this: I'm not sure I'd know how to adopt standard recipes to this new fangled cook-tech. Honestly, I'd settle for a standard unit that emails me when my food starts to smoke, inevitably, like a meteorite. –Brian Lam

TurboChef [Marketwatch]

Make Your Own Potato Chips and Profit

Adam Frucci — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 10:28:29 EST

For you health nuts/DIY people out there, this here is a way to have delicious salty snacks without having to give money to the Frito-Lay obesity-promoting conglomerate. It's a make-your-own-chip setup, complete with special slicer for turning potatoes into chips. Simply stick the thin slices in, microwave for six minutes, and you've got chemical-free chips for your enjoyment.

Don't forget to add nuclear-orange cheese powder and lots of grease! That's how you know it's a snack and not some healthy BS of the variety your sanctimonious neighbor would give to your kids instead of candy on Halloween. –Adam Frucci

TokyoMango [via Boing Boing]

Daewoo Two-Door Microwave

Travis Hudson — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 15:32:39 EST

This is the latest kitchen gadget from Daewoo. It is a microwave that has both a front door and back door. It goes both ways ... like a bisexual (sorry, had to fit that Family Guy joke in somewhere). This is probably best used in kitchens that have middle islands or barriers that can be accessed from both sides. It is a pretty simple idea that will likely make a ton just because it is innovative and caters to the lazy. This two-door microwave should be available later this year. – Travis Hudson

Daewoo Unveils Two-Door Microwave [GadgetInsight]

It's a Microwave, It's a Vase: It's The Microwave Vase!

Gizloco — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 12:35:10 EST

Here's a nice little piece of concept art that's both functional and pleasing to the eye, which is a bit of a rarity. Dubbed the Microwave Vase by designer Woo Seokmoon, it's a combination microwave and vase that's supposedly going to be all the rage with those young urban professionals out there. In its default setting, the Microwave Vase looks like nothing more than a regular vase; once food is placed inside and the top knob is adjusted for time, then it becomes an actual microwave, cooking your food in a heartbeat. When the food is finished, the little green leaf on top lights up to let you know that your meal is ready. Wasn't this an accessory in the The Sims? (Hint: Check inside to see what it looks like as just an everyday vase.)

I like it. My apartment is so tiny that it's difficult to simultaneously fit three fully grown adults inside it. Now I can save a precious extra six inches of space. Rock on, Woo, rock on. Now whether or not it'll actually see the light of day is another matter entirely. – Nicholas Deleon

Microwave Vase [Yanko Design]

Samsung Smart Oven Knows How Long to Nuke Your Food

Louis Ramirez — Thu, 16 Nov 2006 09:48:26 EST

It won't make you a top chef, but if you're constantly under nuking that bag of popcorn, Samsung's new microwave can help. The Smart Oven is capable of reading the barcode on prepackaged foods and automatically calculates how long to nuke your meal. No word on whether its library of barcodes can be updated or not, so you might want to think twice before committing yourself to a life of popcorn and frozen fish sticks. – Louis Ramirez

Samsung Smart Oven [via Absolute Gadget]

Daewoo Voice-Activated Microwave

Charlie White — Tue, 26 Sep 2006 11:43:55 EDT

Daewoo announced its voice-activated microwave oven, a good listener in the kitchen which understands anyone who talks to it. That is, as long as you tell it one of its 40 voice commands it's able to recognize. You just tell it what you'd like to cook, and it goes on its merry way, nuking it with 95% accuracy.

Seems like it would be fun to talk to your oven for the first day or two, but really, how hard is it to push a couple of buttons? No pricing was announced, but the company says it will be available sometime in 2007. – Charlie White

Daewoo Unveils Voice Recognition Microwave [ [BornRich]

Microwave Drilling .. Huh?

Travis Hudson — Thu, 17 Aug 2006 11:10:16 EDT

Yes, this is the truth. Researchers at Tel Aviv University have found a way to use a technology that I am very fond of to make concrete drilling a bit easier and less messy. Microwaves are used to heat the concrete or other material to well over 2,000 degrees celcius making it quite a bit easier to drill through. This prevents any kind of dust debris while drilling and also allows for a hot pocket to get cooked thoroughly while on the job. – Travis Hudson

Microwave-Drill Technology [Via SCI FI]

Microwave Rice Cooker

Jason Chen — Mon, 05 Jun 2006 20:35:06 EDT

College students and lonely singles who enjoy rice, but don't want to make a whole bunch can use this Micro Rice Cooker from Japan to make rice for one. The rice washing is still necessary, but this allows you to use the microwave instead of a rice cooker, and comes in a small bowl—perfect for one.

This takes 15 minutes to heat up in the microwave and out comes a bowl of rice. We suppose you could just use a regular rice cooker and put in a tiny bit of rice for the same results, but this seems more gadgety. Available now for $44. – Jason Chen

Micro Rice Cooker [Compact Impact via Popgadget]

Micro Kettle

Jason Chen — Wed, 31 May 2006 19:49:22 EDT

Perfect for college students and the single guy, the Micro Kettle lets you microwave water or other liquids safely. We always thought we could use whatever glass was marked "microwave safe", but what do we know?

The Kettle has convenient markings to see just how much Ginseng you're nuking, as well as the easy grip handle to keep your fingers from burning when removing said kettle. The makers also claim that it can preserve natural flavors, but we'll chalk that up to marketing-speak. – Jason Chen

Update: One of the designers filled in the leaky holes of our understanding about the product. Check it out after the jump.

First, a great - and totally unpublicized - feature of this product is its ability to work directly on most cups and mugs, not just the included measuring cup i.e. boil the water you're going to use right in the cup you're going to use. The "boil stick" drops down into the fluid below, so you never get superheating (as another posted noted). If you Google "microwave superheated water" you'll find all sorts of info about this rather nasty phenomenon. The textured boil stick creates nucleation sites for normal boiling to occur.

Also, the claim of better foods and drinks is not (completely) marketing speak. The fact is you want water just-to-boiling. Seasoned tea drinkers know this. Anything short of boiling and you don't get all the flavor out of the brewing media; any extra time after boiling is achieved removes dissolved oxygen, making a drink taste flat. (Google "boiling oxygen flat tea" for verification of this).

Thanks Chris!

Micro Kettle [Popgadget]