The best thing about the 15C is an amazing entry scheme called Reverse Polish Notation, or RPN for short. Once you know RPN, you can quickly rip off even the most complicated calculations with a small number of keystrokes—about as Direct into Action and Hassle-free as advanced math gets. It wasn’t easy to learn, but once you did, it was like you were in a club—the HP15C was a signal to all that you were hardcore. Okay, so it didn’t exactly attract the girls, but it became a part of my emerging “I-don’t-care-what-you-think-I-like-math” teen identity. And, the design was beautiful in its own way: a novel landscape orientation, nice weight, great travel and bounce on the keys, and an overall sensation of solidness and quality similar to what I would feel much later in my first iPhone. The HP15C just about perfectly nails our Cool Concepts: Accomplishment, Direct into Action, Hassle-free, Identity and Sensation.

The HP15C is still a geek cult icon some 35 years after its first release. For those of us in science and engineering, it doesn’t get much cooler.

A new year is starting, why not start it in a ‘cool’ way? Here is a list of selected must-have products that adhere to our cool guidelines.

Cool Sounds

1. Jawbone: JAMBOX

This wireless portable speaker will blow your music away. Now powerful speakers come in any size. It’s easy to connect to the JAMBOX and turn it into a hi-fi sound system with any smart phone or tablet. Get clear audio at any volume. Not close to the JAMBOX? No problem. With Bluetooth, you can easily connect to the JAMBOX from across the room. Play, pause, and skip songs using only your phone or tablet.

Cool Factor: Speakers are no longer tied to cables, and you still get the best quality sound.

2. iHome:  iW3

Revolutionize the way you listen to music. The iW3 is an AirPlay wireless speaker system that uses your Wi-Fi network to connect and control your music wirelessly. Plus, no need to find a wall outlet, the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery makes this a portable experience.

Cool Factors: You can control your music from any mobile device.

Cool at Home

3. Griffin Technology: Beacon Universal Remote Control

Whether you own a Sony TV, and a Toshiba DVD or Blue-Ray player, now you can control everything with one single controller from your smart phone. The Beacon Universal Remote Control turns your phone into the ultimate controller. Control TV listings, and even Netflix! Simply sync your phone with it, and start managing all your devices with a single device.

Cool Factors: Avoid the clutter of remote controls. No set up necessary.

Stay Cool & Warm

4. Uniqlo: HEATTECH

Uniqlo brings the latest technology from Japan. Keep your body warm, without bundling up with multiple layers. This light-weight high tech fabric keeps you warm even in the coldest weather. HEATTECH absorbs the moisture coming from your body and doesn’t allow it to escape. This maintains warmth evenly throughout your body. It has a soft texture, and it’s light, as well as easy to clean.

Cool Factors: Stay warm and remove the bulk.

For the Cool & Tech Savvy

5. Apple: iPad Mini

The iPad Mini is the perfect solution for those who wish to get the same Apple software at a more convenient price and size. The iPad Mini allows for easy transportation, while still offering the same features and benefits from owning an Apple device.

Cool Factor: Fits easily inside a purse, which makes it easier to carry around and use in the moment.

6. Logitech: Washable Keyboard K310

The same look, definitely not the same as other keyboards. The K310 by Logitech is a waterproof keyboard that is not afraid of coffee spills or running under the sink. The keys are printed with lasers, which keeps them from fading.

Cool Factor: It removes the hassle of cleaning out all the dirt and food crumbs.

Cool Kitchen Aid

7. Vitamix: 5200 Professional Blender

This blender will outlive any ordinary blender; some have had it as long as 17 years. The 5200 Professional Blender by Vitamix has an impressive performance and outstanding durability. It also comes with a 7-year warranty that certainly keeps customers happy.

Cool Factor: No more purchasing blenders, this one will last for a lifetime.

Cool Software

8. Kayak for Mobile by Kayak

With one app you can control what flight to take, what hotel is the best choice and make sure you are on top of your itinerary. Check if your flight has been delayed, and always be on time. Kayak mobile allows you to take control without any complications.

Cool Factor: Book your travel, track your travel all in one place. No hassle of switching devices.

9. Siri by Apple

It understands what you say, and what you mean. Speak to Siri with confidence, and Siri will do the rest. Siri dials, searches, and listens to your every command.

Cool Factor: Easily adds a reminder without the need to type it in. Hands free, no typing.

10.  Waze by Waze Inc.

Avoid the traffic, and know when to take the back routes. One app helps ease the drive to and from work. Waze gives live traffic updates of what your selected route looks like.

Cool Factor: Easy hands free traffic/navigation map. Plus get an immediate update on traffic as soon as you get in your car.