USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. It was introduced in 1995 as a replacement for traditional serial and parallel connectors. Advantages are that it's considerably smaller than the two former connector types and computer system power is much easier to access through the connector.

The USB symbol is at right. Clicking on the next thumbnail will show you a picture of a standard USB plug.

The small size and ready access to system power through this connector has inspired all manner of goofy gadgetry to plug into your computer.

The USB Missile Launcher will provide hours of fun. Especially when you see the look on your fellow cubical denizens faces when they realize the thing actually works.

Fortunately the missiles are made from that "nerf" like foam material.

Comes with software to control the launch angle, direction, and fire control. Range is limited to twenty feet so actually hitting a pal is a hit or miss proposition.

No mention is made of VPN control for true remote control mayhem. Of course you could always try stealth.

"Hey Joe. Come here and look at this."

With any luck you'll score a direct hit to the forehead.

This handy little doodad dispenses fragrance as it runs. Since these are promotional items you can order them with your logo on them. They don't actually store anything other than fragrance.

So when you are ready to hint that your customer really stinks, get them one of these in lavender, rose, or jasmine.

Christmas is more than six months away (as of March 11, 2008), but why wait for the tree? This little number plugs right into your USB port and lights up with itty bitty fiber-optics at the branch tips.

The really fake looking wooden pot will be the talk around the water cooler.

Want to really show off? How about a mini-fridge that holds one, count 'em, one soda can. USB powered so you show everyone around just how geeky you truly are.

Let your Geek Flag Fly!

One model is for a single can of soda. Others will hold a six pack. Not well insulated, but powered by the USB port on your computer; these "dispenser" will keep the cans cold with refrigerant. One of the featured models will even warm as well as cool.

Want to keep that drink cold after you opened it? There's a gadget for that too.

Now that you have chilled drinks at hand how about a fan? This fan has battery backup, for when your computer is turned off, and runs on current from the supplied USB cord. Soft foam blades insure that you won't cut your tongue doing that weird "La la la la la" thing your crazy uncle showed you.

Yes, that's right plug this "puppy" in and he goes to town. Absolutely worthless item for your USB port other than offending your office pals or humoring the easily amused.

Hey, there's always one person in the office who by some quirk of nature finds the same tired joke amusing no matter how many times it's told. Imagine, if you will, the endless hours of entertainment these crazy pups will provide. As long as s/he standing there you can't really get any work done. It's a win win for everyone.

Hey, this is just what I want to see at my desk. A small plastic dog getting "down" with my computer. Whowah!

Comes in a wide variety of breeds. Beagle, Dobermann, and Mutt. I wonder if they are AKC registered?

No need to say any more.

For those with a slightly more serious side here's a "toy" that will provide weeks of entertainment.

Can't identify that speck of fuzz you found under your keyboard? Want know what's REALLY the pepperoni left over from the last meeting in the board room? Want to know what kind of bug that was that landed on your forehead?

Here's the way to go. Pop the object of suspicion under the lense of these wonders and view the marvels of nature on your computer screen.

Scary, weird, dangerous looking, and downright fun. Comes complete with skull & crossbones, two toggle switches, a key switch, a big red light and a hinged plastic protective cover for the "big red button."

Tired of the office goon coming round to see "what you are up to?" As soon as you see them headed your way flip up the clear "safety cover" and keep that finger poised over the big red button.

Warning: Does not actually destruct anything. Unfortunately this item actually works; as a four port USB hub. Too bad it's not totally useless.

This one is so neat I might get it myself. Robotic arm that can be programmed from the included controller or via the provided Images Serial PC Windows Controller software. Software allows the programming of scripts for the arm to follow.  You can control the "fingers", wrist, elbow, and shoulder. The base will rotate three hundred sixty degrees. The space between the fingers even has a white LED spotlight. Will lift up to 100 grams (3.5 ounces).

The supplied software allows for ninety-nine (99) script commander per session and allows the programmed script to run ninety-nine (99) times unattended. You can even buy this set up pre-reassembled or as a kit (the controller has to be put together) for additional learning fun.

Uses four "D" cell batteries along with the USB connection.