Mr Cartwright, creator of technology blog techAU, has reached the top 20 of iiNet’s Top Geek competition.

The winner will receive an overseas trip to a convention of their choice but Mr Cartwright, who works full-time as well as writing his popular blog, doesn’t want geeks to get a bad name.

“People tend to think geeks are guys who just sit at home in front of their computers,” he said.

“In reality, though, the finalists are people who are passionate about technology ... and being at the forefront of technological change.”

Judges will cut five from the top 20 on Friday.

To stay in the competition, finalists have to design a new gadget or application.

While other finalists have produced fanciful creations such as iPhone applications that locate slushie machines, Mr Cartwright has set his sights on revolutionising the family television.

The X-Box 360, which could be upgraded as technology improved, was the inspiration behind his idea.

“Televisions are the most expensive screens in our homes but they’re not upgradable, meaning we’re forced to turn to set-top boxes to get the experiences we expect,” he said.

Mr Cartwright has submitted a 3D video of his creation and is “quietly confident” it will get him through the next stage.

BY MATT CRAM