I've been getting a lot of requests from readers for more do-it-yourself gear and gadgets. Electronics are fine, they say, but some of us are fixing up the house (good idea in this real estate downturn) and want the lowdown on the latest tools and gear that can make projects easier. I'm with you, I'm doing some work on my place right now as well.

One of the trends I'm seeing is that everything now has lasers on it. Measuring tools, on cutting tools for greater accuracy, and where it started, leveling tools.

Craftsman has a pair of laser levels that you should make an essential part of your basic tool kit. The Digital LaserTracs look like standard 24- or 10-inch medium-duty levels with vertical and horizontal bubble vials, but one end holds a laser, giving you the ability to hang pictures, shelves, or molding, down the entire length of your house if you want. At precise angles.

The LaserTrac's backlit LCD display shows you the exact angle you're at, let's you save up to nine angles, and beeps to let you know when you've hit 0, 45 or 90 degrees. There's also a tripod thread and a magnetic base to free up your hands to handle the important stuff. Like pointing out to your buddies where to put the boxes of tiles they're lugging up from the truck.

$69.99 - 24-inch LaserTrac
$49.99 - 10-inch LaserTrac
$99.99 - Combo pack
www.craftsman.com