Ken Richardson

Pelican i1030 ($45; pelican.com). Think "pelican" and you may rightly think "watertight." But the i1030 micro-case is dustproof and crushproof, too, so take that, big bird! The polycarbonate case is available in yellow or white.

Actually, Sony would prefer that you call its branded vending machines "automated kiosks." And the machines' maker, Zoom Systems, refers to them as "robotic stores." Whatever you call 'em, the Sony Access units are currently being test-marketed in various locations, including: • Malls: FlatIron Crossing (Broomfield, Colorado), Mall of Georgia (Buford), and Santa Rosa

Who says that Halloween isn't for A/V enthusiasts? In the next few pages, Sound & Vision will present an appropriate selection of ear and eye candy for trick-or-treaters.

Snakes on a Plane: The Album (Decaydance), with emo/rock tracks and Samuel L. Jackson's immortal M-line.