In the fast-paced world of personal computers, technological advancements have given rise to a myriad of innovative accessories that cater to various needs and preferences. While many of these accessories are designed to enhance productivity and gaming experiences, some have ventured into uncharted territory, leaving even seasoned PC enthusiasts scratching their heads in disbelief. In this article, we’ll explore five of the weirdest PC accessories that have ever hit the market. From retro audio technology to tantalizing scents and gaming gloves, these peculiar peripherals will undoubtedly pique your curiosity.
PlusDeck PC Cassette Deck: A Blast from the Past
Photo: plathome
The PlusDeck PC Cassette Deck by BTO Company Limited may leave you wondering whether time travel is possible. This peculiar accessory is an audio cassette player that fits right into an empty 5.25″ drive bay in your desktop computer. Yes, you read that correctly—a cassette player in the era of CDs, USBs, and MP3s.
Released in 2001, the PlusDeck was capable of recording MP3s and online audio onto cassette tapes using a PC. The audacious move of introducing a cassette player in the early 2000s, long after CDs and USBs had become prevalent, was indeed perplexing. However, despite releasing updated versions, the PlusDeck’s limited usability eventually led to its demise in the market.
DigiScents iSmell: A Fragrant Vision
Photo: Summit ID
In a world where immersive experiences reign supreme, DigiScents wanted to revolutionize the entertainment industry with the iSmell. Launched in 1999, this aromatic accessory aimed to provide web surfers, gamers, and moviegoers with a sensory explosion by allowing them to experience different scents in conjunction with online content.
The iSmell’s prototype featured vials of primary scents that could be combined to create the aroma of nearly anything in the natural world. However, despite the grand vision, the iSmell never made it to market. The company eventually ran out of funds, leaving this fragrant dream unrealized.
Peregrine Gaming Glove: Gesture Control Gone Wrong
Photo:
Y Studios
The Peregrine Gaming Glove, announced in 2009, had an ambitious goal: to provide gamers with a wearable interface that could replace or complement traditional keyboard controls. This futuristic glove by Iron Will Innovations and Y Studios featured embedded sensors that could read and interpret hand movements for Real-Time Strategy (RTS) or Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games.
However, the glove’s execution fell short of expectations. Instead of reading hand gestures, users had to interact with different touchpoints on their fingers and palms, essentially making it like putting 18 buttons on a mouse. Despite ongoing development and a VR version, the glove’s practicality for mainstream gaming remained elusive.
3rd Space Gaming Vest: Feeling the Game?
Photo: TN Games
Dr. Mark Ombrellaro created the 3rd Space Gaming Vest, also known as the ForceWear Vest, in 2007. This force feedback contraption aimed to add a new dimension to gaming experiences by providing haptic feedback that allowed players to feel the game’s impacts and movements.
The vest used air compressors to create localized air pockets, giving players a sense of impact and directionality. While the concept was intriguing, its application was limited to a handful of games, and the gaming vest never reached mainstream popularity. However, it undoubtedly left an impression on those who experienced its unique sensations.
EEKBNEJQ Tank: Battle Station or Miniature Tank?
Photo: EEKBNEJQ
For the gamers who like to affectionately refer to their PCs as “battle stations,” the EEKBNEJQ Tank takes the concept to a whole new level. This peculiar PC case, shaped like a miniature tank with a gun turret, is not for the faint of heart.
Aside from its eye-catching design, the EEKBNEJQ Tank is built with a strong focus on cooling and ventilation. The “treads” on the sides of the tank are actually fans that, combined with additional top-mounted fans, ensure optimal airflow. The inclusion of a digital thermostat on the front allows users to monitor the internal temperature minute-by-minute. Although its tank-like appearance is sure to be a conversation starter, this unique case is undoubtedly geared towards gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the fusion of form and function.
Conclusion
The world of PC accessories has seen its fair share of innovative and outlandish gadgets over the years. From cassette decks and aromatic experiences to gaming gloves and tanks, these peculiar peripherals have left their mark on the technology landscape, even if they didn’t achieve widespread adoption.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect more intriguing and extraordinary accessories to emerge, each attempting to carve a niche in the ever-expanding world of personal computing. While some of these accessories may seem too bizarre to be true, they serve as a testament to the boundless creativity and experimentation within the tech industry.
