Sunday, December 31, 2023
Friday, December 29, 2023
A Jeep Gun | Sheriff Jim Wilson
An AR-15 alternative, Ruger's Mini-14 in .223:
http://sheriffjimwilson.com/2015/07/02/a-jeep-gun/
http://sheriffjimwilson.com/2015/07/02/a-jeep-gun/
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
Friday, December 22, 2023
Anneal brass without fancy machines
Annealing will increase (quadruple?) your brass life, and it makes resizing much easier, especially if you are changing the caliber on a particular brass. It also helps tremendously with brass spring back, making bullet seating more uniform and that aids in accuracy. It lengthens brass life for bottleneck calibers and a few longer straight cases.
Folks have been annealing brass for decades, one way or another with a drill and a socket for many years, before there were annealing machines on the market.
Use small propane bottle torch placed in a vise @ 45 degrees:
Folks have been annealing brass for decades, one way or another with a drill and a socket for many years, before there were annealing machines on the market.
Use small propane bottle torch placed in a vise @ 45 degrees:
- Use a Cordless drill with a socket inserted that is long enough to hold a prepped cartridge but short enough to leave the neck and shoulder exposed.
- Cut the lights down so you can see the color of the brass when heated.
- Drop UNLOADED round in socket base down set drill for slow rotation and place neck and shoulder into flame.
- When you see a light orange color, tip the round out of the socket into a pail of water.
- It's not a mass production procedure, but it works.
#Anneal, #Annealing, #Annealer, #Aneal
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Tuesday, December 19, 2023
Best AR-15 Bolt Carrier Groups
#AR-15, #AR15, #AR-40, #AR40, #AR-45, #AR45, #AR-9, #AR9, #AR-16, #AR16, #M-16, #M16,
Sunday, December 17, 2023
Thursday, December 14, 2023
Don’t Put All Your Songs in One Folder on Your USB Drive
Check your owner's manual or manufacturer's website to see specifics for your radio.
https://www.bestcaraudio.com/dont-put-all-your-songs-in-one-folder-on-your-usb-drive/
https://www.bestcaraudio.com/dont-put-all-your-songs-in-one-folder-on-your-usb-drive/
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Sunday, December 10, 2023
Thursday, December 7, 2023
Tuesday, December 5, 2023
Mega IIe: First Fully Functional Computer built around the Apple Mega-II Chip
A miniature Apple IIe with a USB keyboard, VGA video, and disk control incorporated into the motherboard. There is more work to be done, but this is already a significant accomplishment.
Saturday, December 2, 2023
Some ideas on concealed compartments in furniture
Add a few magnet activated latches and things could be secure ...
LED Tester Also Calculates Resistor For Target Voltage
" The device is very simple to build, and consists of several components:
- Arduino Nano microcontroller
- 16x2 LCD Display with I2C communication protocol
- 7 Resistors
- capacitor
- and four Buttons"
- Arduino Nano microcontroller
- 16x2 LCD Display with I2C communication protocol
- 7 Resistors
- capacitor
- and four Buttons"
Friday, December 1, 2023
Is Notepad or Notepad++ better for Win-11?
It depends on which features are important to you ...
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/should-you-use-notepad-or-notepad-on-windows-11Sunday, November 26, 2023
Saturday, November 25, 2023
Ideas on hidden storage
Small shelves designed with parts that slide to reveal hidden compartments:
📸 Look at this post on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/v/BUsDVG7FQh9aahaj/?mibextid=HqNPNq
📸 Look at this post on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/v/BUsDVG7FQh9aahaj/?mibextid=HqNPNq
Thursday, November 23, 2023
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Microsoft unveils the 'Windows app' for accessing Windows PCs in the cloud from any device
"Microsoft is announcing a new "Windows app" for iOS and iPadOS, the web, and Windows today that enables the ability to connect to any of your remote Windows PCs no matter where you are."
" The new app acts as a customizable home screen that incorporates all of Microsoft's current Cloud PC services, as well as Remote Desktop and RDP connections."
Friday, November 17, 2023
How to capture weather satellite data
Can I Get Satellite Data With An Umbrella?
https://hackaday.com/2023/11/16/umbrella-antenna-protects-you-from-rain-but-not-the-way-you-think/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM84sSXFL0Y
---------------------------------------------------------------------
I was able to download images and weather data from GOES-East, NOAA satellites, and Russian METEOR satellites. I also got a little bit from some other satellites but the signals weren't as good.
Here's the stuff I used (these links give me a commission if you buy stuff through them, but the price to you is the same!)
Umbrella: https://amzn.to/3FEpY6t (any umbrella should work)
Foil tape: https://amzn.to/46RBNCk
(This is actually cheaper at a hardware store, and you'll need 3 rolls!)
Antenna feed: https://amzn.to/46UMvrQ
Software-Defined Radio: https://amzn.to/45Yg8qK
Filter/Amplifier: https://amzn.to/479SjgL
OTG adapter (if using a phone): https://amzn.to/40fCLFX
Antenna cable: https://amzn.to/46QiFVn
SDR++ software: https://www.sdrpp.org/
Satdump: https://www.satdump.org/
I also used Stellarium for aiming, but I still don't really love it.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Saveitforparts (above) t-shirts and other merch at https://saveitforparts.myspreadshop.com/
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Check eBay for used satellite dishes, Ultra Wide Band antenna feed ($14.50 @ Amazon), RTL-SDR Software Defined Radio ($33.95 @ Amazon), GOES - Premium Saw Filter Ultra-Low Noise LNA Module for NOAA ($45 @ Amazon), etc.
NOTE: GOES Weather Satellite Antennas are available on Amazon for $100+. Also, check out the KM4HLF 137 Mhz V-DIPOLE Antenna on Amazon for $59.
NOTE: can you use parabolic umbrellas with a reflective coating made for photography?
---------------------------------------------------------------------
RTL-SDR Tutorial: Receiving NOAA Weather Satellite Images (several alternate antenna designs shown):
https://www.rtl-sdr.com/rtl-sdr-tutorial-receiving-noaa-weather-satellite-images/
Get Your Weather Images Straight From The Satellite:
https://hackaday.com/2020/03/14/get-your-weather-images-straight-from-the-satellite/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWWGDL5tC_I
3D printer to make an antenna: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3665516
Acquiring NOAA Weather Satellite Imagery using SDR:
https://jekhokie.github.io/noaa/satellite/rf/antenna/sdr/2019/05/31/noaa-satellite-imagery-sdr.html
How to capture satellite images in your backyard:
https://phys.org/news/2022-02-capture-satellite-images-backyard-contribute.html
https://hackaday.com/2023/11/16/umbrella-antenna-protects-you-from-rain-but-not-the-way-you-think/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM84sSXFL0Y
---------------------------------------------------------------------
I was able to download images and weather data from GOES-East, NOAA satellites, and Russian METEOR satellites. I also got a little bit from some other satellites but the signals weren't as good.
Here's the stuff I used (these links give me a commission if you buy stuff through them, but the price to you is the same!)
Umbrella: https://amzn.to/3FEpY6t (any umbrella should work)
Foil tape: https://amzn.to/46RBNCk
(This is actually cheaper at a hardware store, and you'll need 3 rolls!)
Antenna feed: https://amzn.to/46UMvrQ
Software-Defined Radio: https://amzn.to/45Yg8qK
Filter/Amplifier: https://amzn.to/479SjgL
OTG adapter (if using a phone): https://amzn.to/40fCLFX
Antenna cable: https://amzn.to/46QiFVn
SDR++ software: https://www.sdrpp.org/
Satdump: https://www.satdump.org/
I also used Stellarium for aiming, but I still don't really love it.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Saveitforparts (above) t-shirts and other merch at https://saveitforparts.myspreadshop.com/
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Check eBay for used satellite dishes, Ultra Wide Band antenna feed ($14.50 @ Amazon), RTL-SDR Software Defined Radio ($33.95 @ Amazon), GOES - Premium Saw Filter Ultra-Low Noise LNA Module for NOAA ($45 @ Amazon), etc.
NOTE: GOES Weather Satellite Antennas are available on Amazon for $100+. Also, check out the KM4HLF 137 Mhz V-DIPOLE Antenna on Amazon for $59.
NOTE: can you use parabolic umbrellas with a reflective coating made for photography?
---------------------------------------------------------------------
RTL-SDR Tutorial: Receiving NOAA Weather Satellite Images (several alternate antenna designs shown):
https://www.rtl-sdr.com/rtl-sdr-tutorial-receiving-noaa-weather-satellite-images/
Get Your Weather Images Straight From The Satellite:
https://hackaday.com/2020/03/14/get-your-weather-images-straight-from-the-satellite/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWWGDL5tC_I
3D printer to make an antenna: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3665516
Acquiring NOAA Weather Satellite Imagery using SDR:
https://jekhokie.github.io/noaa/satellite/rf/antenna/sdr/2019/05/31/noaa-satellite-imagery-sdr.html
How to capture satellite images in your backyard:
https://phys.org/news/2022-02-capture-satellite-images-backyard-contribute.html
On using physical security keys (YubiKey)
I use Two-Factor Authentication with several applications and while they're quickest with my smart-phone, they almost all have the option of calling me on my landline to provide the security code.
I haven't used any of the physical security keys in years, primarily because I was too cheap to buy a personal one several years ago (I did use the old code-key generator devices for work years ago). Of course, losing or damaging one of these keys is always a risk, and if it's left plugged in to the device, that doesn't really secure it from anyone who somehow gets access to (by stealing the device for example).
As mentioned in the article (https://www.theverge.com/22458935/two-factor-security-key-how-to-yubico), the Yubikey can be used as part of your logon authentication to Twitter, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and many other applications running over the Internet. That is probably where I would start because our userIDs and some of our passwords are likely to be available on the dark web somewhere (you need to set up Two-Factor Authentication for them first).
As an aside, if you have a password manager like LastPass, then you can fairly easily set up unique UserIDs and (most important) unique passwords for each of them. LastPass can be added to most browsers to fill-in your credentials for you (that's what I do, primarily with FireFox), or you can use LastPass to launch the sites and login to them for you (like some other password managers, I can access LastPass locally {on my PCs}, from my phone, or from the Internet - it's the same database everywhere).
"If you lose your security key, you can use two-factor authentication on your cell phone or an authenticator app. Then, if you want to use a new key, you will have to go through the process of reauthorizing your accounts all over again.
...
In order to use a security key with your Google account (or any account), you need to have already set up two-factor authentication."
Some articles I found useful:
1 Yubikey, multiple devices: https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/sl5w22/1_yubikey_multiple_devices/
https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/auvrrf/can_i_use_one_yubikey_for_both_my_laptop_and/?rdt=65410
Is it possible to use one Yubikey for multiple accounts?:
https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/m8kdkf/is_it_possible_to_use_one_yubikey_for_multiple/
"Use Chrome {browser} to register. There are several sites that I can't register keys with FireFox, but I can login with them"
How many accounts can I register my YubiKey with?
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360013790319-How-many-accounts-can-I-register-my-YubiKey-with-
"... can be registered with an unlimited number of services."
Using YubiKeys With Chromebooks: https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/4412780094866-Using-YubiKeys-With-Chromebooks
https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/6103523
Ubuntu Linux 20+ Login Guide - Challenge Response:
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360018695819-Ubuntu-Linux-20-Login-Guide-Challenge-Response
(Something I hadn't thought of) Using YubiKeys with LastPass:
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360013717580-Using-YubiKeys-with-LastPass
https://www.lastpass.com/solutions/authentication/yubico
"To use a YubiKey with LastPass, you need to have a LastPass Premium, Families, Enterprise or Teams account." $
File encryption with Yubikey: https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/q315bo/file_encryption_with_yubikey/
"Yubikey can act as a Smartcard. Veracrypt does support Smartcard" (Linux & Windows)
"I use bitlocker and program the password to the short touch" (Windows)
Which YubiKeys are right for me?: https://www.yubico.com/quiz/
GNU Privacy Guard (GPG, open-source PGP): https://gnupg.org/index.html
"GnuPG is a complete and free implementation of the OpenPGP standard as defined by RFC4880 (also known as PGP)"
Ubuntu 22.04 Enable full disk encryption: https://linuxconfig.org/ubuntu-22-04-enable-full-disk-encryption
Enable Full Disk Encryption - Ubuntu 20.04: https://jumpcloud.com/blog/how-to-enable-full-disk-encryption-on-an-ubuntu-20-04-desktop
It's Now Easy to Protect Windows With a YubiKey: https://www.pcmag.com/news/its-now-easy-to-protect-windows-with-a-yubikey
"... add an extra layer of security to your Windows login"
"... as the app uses the challenge-response authentication protocol you'll need a YubiKey 5 Series, which can be purchased for as little as $45."
Firefox support for FIDO2 authenticators is here! (2023):
https://www.yubico.com/blog/firefox-support-for-fido2-authenticators-is-here/
"Starting with Firefox 114 – released on June 6, 2023 – Firefox has enabled support for FIDO2 security keys for both registering and authenticating to sites that support passkeys."
How to Navigate FIDO U2F in Firefox Quantum: (2017):
https://www.yubico.com/blog/how-to-navigate-fido-u2f-in-firefox-quantum/
FireFox: https://developers.yubico.com/yubico-piv-tool/YKCS11/Supported_applications/firefox.html
Enabling Smart Card in Firefox on Windows: (2021)
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360021087299-Enabling-Smart-Card-in-Firefox-on-Windows
Firefox Add-On - Yubikey Companion by dyeray (Python 3.7+): https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/yubikey-companion/
https://github.com/dyeray/yubikey-companion#installation
YubiKey Manager CLI: https://developers.yubico.com/yubikey-manager/
I haven't used any of the physical security keys in years, primarily because I was too cheap to buy a personal one several years ago (I did use the old code-key generator devices for work years ago). Of course, losing or damaging one of these keys is always a risk, and if it's left plugged in to the device, that doesn't really secure it from anyone who somehow gets access to (by stealing the device for example).
As mentioned in the article (https://www.theverge.com/22458935/two-factor-security-key-how-to-yubico), the Yubikey can be used as part of your logon authentication to Twitter, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and many other applications running over the Internet. That is probably where I would start because our userIDs and some of our passwords are likely to be available on the dark web somewhere (you need to set up Two-Factor Authentication for them first).
As an aside, if you have a password manager like LastPass, then you can fairly easily set up unique UserIDs and (most important) unique passwords for each of them. LastPass can be added to most browsers to fill-in your credentials for you (that's what I do, primarily with FireFox), or you can use LastPass to launch the sites and login to them for you (like some other password managers, I can access LastPass locally {on my PCs}, from my phone, or from the Internet - it's the same database everywhere).
"If you lose your security key, you can use two-factor authentication on your cell phone or an authenticator app. Then, if you want to use a new key, you will have to go through the process of reauthorizing your accounts all over again.
...
In order to use a security key with your Google account (or any account), you need to have already set up two-factor authentication."
Your operating system may support encrypting individual drives, folders, or even files (after backing them up) and you could store the encryption keys in your password manager or a security key.
If I were to encrypt an entire drive or device, I would make sure I had a current & tested backup of it first.
Some articles I found useful:
1 Yubikey, multiple devices: https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/sl5w22/1_yubikey_multiple_devices/
https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/auvrrf/can_i_use_one_yubikey_for_both_my_laptop_and/?rdt=65410
Is it possible to use one Yubikey for multiple accounts?:
https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/m8kdkf/is_it_possible_to_use_one_yubikey_for_multiple/
"Use Chrome {browser} to register. There are several sites that I can't register keys with FireFox, but I can login with them"
How many accounts can I register my YubiKey with?
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360013790319-How-many-accounts-can-I-register-my-YubiKey-with-
"... can be registered with an unlimited number of services."
Using YubiKeys With Chromebooks: https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/4412780094866-Using-YubiKeys-With-Chromebooks
https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/6103523
Using Your YubiKey with Linux:
"These steps are only necessary if your udev version is lower than 244 ..."Ubuntu Linux 20+ Login Guide - Challenge Response:
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360018695819-Ubuntu-Linux-20-Login-Guide-Challenge-Response
(Something I hadn't thought of) Using YubiKeys with LastPass:
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360013717580-Using-YubiKeys-with-LastPass
https://www.lastpass.com/solutions/authentication/yubico
"To use a YubiKey with LastPass, you need to have a LastPass Premium, Families, Enterprise or Teams account." $
File encryption with Yubikey: https://www.reddit.com/r/yubikey/comments/q315bo/file_encryption_with_yubikey/
"Yubikey can act as a Smartcard. Veracrypt does support Smartcard" (Linux & Windows)
"I use bitlocker and program the password to the short touch" (Windows)
Which YubiKeys are right for me?: https://www.yubico.com/quiz/
GNU Privacy Guard (GPG, open-source PGP): https://gnupg.org/index.html
"GnuPG is a complete and free implementation of the OpenPGP standard as defined by RFC4880 (also known as PGP)"
Ubuntu 22.04 Enable full disk encryption: https://linuxconfig.org/ubuntu-22-04-enable-full-disk-encryption
Enable Full Disk Encryption - Ubuntu 20.04: https://jumpcloud.com/blog/how-to-enable-full-disk-encryption-on-an-ubuntu-20-04-desktop
"... add an extra layer of security to your Windows login"
"... as the app uses the challenge-response authentication protocol you'll need a YubiKey 5 Series, which can be purchased for as little as $45."
Firefox support for FIDO2 authenticators is here! (2023):
https://www.yubico.com/blog/firefox-support-for-fido2-authenticators-is-here/
"Starting with Firefox 114 – released on June 6, 2023 – Firefox has enabled support for FIDO2 security keys for both registering and authenticating to sites that support passkeys."
How to Navigate FIDO U2F in Firefox Quantum: (2017):
https://www.yubico.com/blog/how-to-navigate-fido-u2f-in-firefox-quantum/
FireFox: https://developers.yubico.com/yubico-piv-tool/YKCS11/Supported_applications/firefox.html
Enabling Smart Card in Firefox on Windows: (2021)
https://support.yubico.com/hc/en-us/articles/360021087299-Enabling-Smart-Card-in-Firefox-on-Windows
Firefox Add-On - Yubikey Companion by dyeray (Python 3.7+): https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/yubikey-companion/
https://github.com/dyeray/yubikey-companion#installation
YubiKey Manager CLI: https://developers.yubico.com/yubikey-manager/
Monday, November 13, 2023
223 / 5.56X45 case trimmer
Recommended on FB forums:
"... our trimmers produce an extremely smooth cut. In most cases it will only be necessary to slightly chamfer the inner edge of the case mouth."
Friday, November 10, 2023
Suits ignored IT's warnings, so the tech team went for the neck • The Register
https://www.theregister.com/2023/11/10/on_call/
Interesting solution. Management won't approve $$$ for a future improvement. So, treat them to a demo of what the problem WILL be if they don't pay for the problem fix in time.
Graeme C. Payne
Tuesday, November 7, 2023
Tiny Forth Could Be The Smallest | Hackaday
Check the comments as well …
https://hackaday.com/2023/11/06/tiny-forth-could-be-the-smallest/
https://hackaday.com/2023/11/06/tiny-forth-could-be-the-smallest/
Saturday, November 4, 2023
Thursday, November 2, 2023
Wednesday, November 1, 2023
GentleCure Image-Guided SRT - skin cancer treatment
Skin Cancer Can Be Cured Without Surgery: (855) 936-4411
For years, Mohs surgery was the standard treatment for people with skin cancer. Now, people with basal or squamous cell skin cancers have Image-Guided SRT (superficial radiation therapy) - the treatment option that cures skin cancer without surgery.
For years, Mohs surgery was the standard treatment for people with skin cancer. Now, people with basal or squamous cell skin cancers have Image-Guided SRT (superficial radiation therapy) - the treatment option that cures skin cancer without surgery.
"Low amounts of X-ray energy are used to kill the cancer cells, which lets healthy skin grow back.
Uses SRT technology with ultrasound images to find, measure, and treat the skin cancer cells and see it shrink over time to be sure the cancer is cured.
Anesthesia is not needed.
Fifteen to 20 short treatment sessions (about 15 minutes each) over the course of several weeks."
Uses SRT technology with ultrasound images to find, measure, and treat the skin cancer cells and see it shrink over time to be sure the cancer is cured.
Anesthesia is not needed.
Fifteen to 20 short treatment sessions (about 15 minutes each) over the course of several weeks."
Locations in Phoenix & Scottsdale ...(855) 936-4411
SRT treatment for skin cancer gains popularity, but it's not for everyone (2017):
What Is Image-Guided SRT (IGSRT) 2023?
"SRT has been around for years, but image-guided SRT is the first skin cancer treatment that uses an ultrasound probe to visualize the tumor. In the ultrasound images, healthy tissue appears on the scan in yellow and green while the skin cancer shows in black.
The images allow the doctor and radiotherapist to see how big and deep the cancer is at each stage of treatment. This allows them to target the exact depth where the treatment is needed to eliminate the cancer. The images also show the skin cancer shrinking over time, letting you know that your treatment is working."
The images allow the doctor and radiotherapist to see how big and deep the cancer is at each stage of treatment. This allows them to target the exact depth where the treatment is needed to eliminate the cancer. The images also show the skin cancer shrinking over time, letting you know that your treatment is working."
The Treatment of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer with Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (2021): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33547631/
"Results: Treatment, guided by pre-treatment ultrasound imaging to adjust radiation energy and dose, combined with a fractionation treatment schedule of 20 or more treatment fractions, was safe and well tolerated. Of 2917 NMSC lesions treated, local tumor control was achieved in 2897 lesions, representing a 99.3% rate of control."
Superficial radiation therapy for nonmelanoma skin cancer (2023):
My experience with surface radiotherapy (2020):
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Level Bolt Connect - makes your current lock smart.
About $220:
Check their list for your current lock's compatibility -
Monday, October 30, 2023
Twist Rate Stability Calculator | Berger Bullets
Determine if you should use these bullets with your barrel …
https://bergerbullets.com/twist-rate-calculator/
https://bergerbullets.com/twist-rate-calculator/
Saturday, October 28, 2023
OpenFan – DIY PC Fan Controller – Sasa Karanovic
Works with about any OS, and can be remotely accessed over the LAN:
https://sasakaranovic.com/projects/openfan-controller/
https://sasakaranovic.com/projects/openfan-controller/
Friday, October 27, 2023
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
How Far Does the Apple Watch Walkie Talkie app Reach?
Apple Watch Walkie-Talkie Range: How Far Does It Reach (2023)?
https://www.iphonelife.com/content/apple-watch-walkie-talkie-range-how-far-does-it-reach
"The Apple Watch Walkie-Talkie range is actually not limited, since it uses cellular data or WiFi to communicate instantaneously."
...
This means that as long as you have cellular or Wi-Fi connection, you'll be able to chat with someone across the country. The only limitation is that you'll want to check whether you have enabled the FaceTime app to use cellular data on your iPhone."
"Before you can get started with using the Walkie-Talkie on your Apple Watch, you should check to make sure you have FaceTime enabled on your iPhone. If FaceTime is not enabled, your Walkie-Talkie app will not work at all."
How Far Does the Apple Watch Reach? - How close to your iPhone your Watch needs to be:
https://www.lifewire.com/how-far-does-the-apple-watch-reach-5216329
"Bluetooth on the Apple Watch has a maximum range of 100 meters/330 feet, though the range may be shorter in practice.
If the paired iPhone is connected to a known Wi-Fi network, the Apple Watch and iPhone can communicate over Wi-Fi."
"The critical question for that scenario is: How far apart can the Apple Watch and iPhone be?
The answer depends on how the Watch and iPhone connect. The two devices connect via Bluetooth, a short-range wireless technology. The most recent Apple Watch models use Bluetooth 4.0, which has a maximum range of 100 meters/330 feet.
The maximum connection distance supported by Bluetooth 4.0 isn't always quite that long in real-world use. In many cases, the maximum length will decrease because of environmental circumstances: primarily walls and floors and the number of wireless signals in any given area.
What Happens When an Apple Watch Is Out of Bluetooth Range?
What happens if the Apple Watch and iPhone are so far apart that they can't connect to each other? That's where Wi-Fi comes in.
If the Watch and iPhone can't connect over Bluetooth, they fall back to trying to connect via their built-in Wi-Fi chips.
In that case, if the iPhone is connected to a 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi network (the Watch isn't compatible with 5Ghz Wi-Fi networks), the Watch attempts to make contact with it over Wi-Fi. That means the supported distance between the devices, in that case, is anywhere that Wi-Fi can reach. While that's not necessarily a lot farther apart than with Bluetooth, it does mean that the Watch and iPhone can communicate with each other when they're in the same building, for example."
Use Walkie-Talkie on your Apple Watch: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208917
https://www.guidingtech.com/how-to-use-walkie-talkie-on-apple-watch/
What is the range of the walkie talkie app?: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250268474
"Walkie-Talkie is a Push-to-Talk FaceTime audio connection. It's range is anywhere you can connect to the internet."
Check The WiFi Connection On Your Apple Watch:
https://www.upphone.com/learn/how-to/devices-lh/apple-watch-lh/check-your-apple-watchs-wifi-connection/
"Since your Apple Watch uses the same Wi-Fi connection as your iPhone, we'll make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi."
How to know whether your Apple Watch is connected to the internet or not:
https://www.idownloadblog.com/2022/01/20/internet-connectivity-on-apple-watch/
How to use Wi-Fi on the Apple Watch: https://www.imore.com/how-your-apple-watch-connects-wi-fi-networks-when-away-your-iphone
"Your Apple Watch can only connect to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks."
https://www.iphonelife.com/content/apple-watch-walkie-talkie-range-how-far-does-it-reach
"The Apple Watch Walkie-Talkie range is actually not limited, since it uses cellular data or WiFi to communicate instantaneously."
...
This means that as long as you have cellular or Wi-Fi connection, you'll be able to chat with someone across the country. The only limitation is that you'll want to check whether you have enabled the FaceTime app to use cellular data on your iPhone."
"Before you can get started with using the Walkie-Talkie on your Apple Watch, you should check to make sure you have FaceTime enabled on your iPhone. If FaceTime is not enabled, your Walkie-Talkie app will not work at all."
How Far Does the Apple Watch Reach? - How close to your iPhone your Watch needs to be:
https://www.lifewire.com/how-far-does-the-apple-watch-reach-5216329
"Bluetooth on the Apple Watch has a maximum range of 100 meters/330 feet, though the range may be shorter in practice.
If the paired iPhone is connected to a known Wi-Fi network, the Apple Watch and iPhone can communicate over Wi-Fi."
"The critical question for that scenario is: How far apart can the Apple Watch and iPhone be?
The answer depends on how the Watch and iPhone connect. The two devices connect via Bluetooth, a short-range wireless technology. The most recent Apple Watch models use Bluetooth 4.0, which has a maximum range of 100 meters/330 feet.
The maximum connection distance supported by Bluetooth 4.0 isn't always quite that long in real-world use. In many cases, the maximum length will decrease because of environmental circumstances: primarily walls and floors and the number of wireless signals in any given area.
What Happens When an Apple Watch Is Out of Bluetooth Range?
What happens if the Apple Watch and iPhone are so far apart that they can't connect to each other? That's where Wi-Fi comes in.
If the Watch and iPhone can't connect over Bluetooth, they fall back to trying to connect via their built-in Wi-Fi chips.
In that case, if the iPhone is connected to a 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi network (the Watch isn't compatible with 5Ghz Wi-Fi networks), the Watch attempts to make contact with it over Wi-Fi. That means the supported distance between the devices, in that case, is anywhere that Wi-Fi can reach. While that's not necessarily a lot farther apart than with Bluetooth, it does mean that the Watch and iPhone can communicate with each other when they're in the same building, for example."
Use Walkie-Talkie on your Apple Watch: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208917
https://www.guidingtech.com/how-to-use-walkie-talkie-on-apple-watch/
What is the range of the walkie talkie app?: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250268474
"Walkie-Talkie is a Push-to-Talk FaceTime audio connection. It's range is anywhere you can connect to the internet."
Use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby:
Check The WiFi Connection On Your Apple Watch:
https://www.upphone.com/learn/how-to/devices-lh/apple-watch-lh/check-your-apple-watchs-wifi-connection/
"Since your Apple Watch uses the same Wi-Fi connection as your iPhone, we'll make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi."
How to know whether your Apple Watch is connected to the internet or not:
https://www.idownloadblog.com/2022/01/20/internet-connectivity-on-apple-watch/
How to use Wi-Fi on the Apple Watch: https://www.imore.com/how-your-apple-watch-connects-wi-fi-networks-when-away-your-iphone
"Your Apple Watch can only connect to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks."
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
Dillon – DRAM WORX - glass powder chamber
Reduce static risks:
https://dramworx.com/products/dillon/
https://dramworx.com/products/dillon/
Sunday, October 22, 2023
BitLocker slowing down SSDs on Windows 11 by up to 45%
BitLocker is now installed by default with Win-11 Pro ...
An Open-Source 8088 BIOS
Finally, An Open-Source 8088 BIOS -
"The Intel 8088 is an interesting chip, being a variant of the more well-known 8086."
8088 BIOS: https://github.com/skiselev/8088_bios
Windows Build Instructions:
Decoding The 8088: https://hackaday.com/2023/10/09/decoding-the-8088/
Friday, October 20, 2023
Thursday, October 19, 2023
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Kindle on PC notes:
Tidy Up: How to Manage Your Amazon Kindle Devices and Content (June 2023) - Are you juggling a lot of Kindle devices, ebooks, and other types of content through Amazon? Here's how to keep your books and devices in order:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/manage-your-amazon-kindle-devices-and-content
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/manage-your-amazon-kindle-devices-and-content
How to share & synchronize work on Windows, macOS, and Linux at the same time
Why limit yourself to just one major operating system when you can work with the same apps and files seamlessly across three?
These tips also apply when working with different systems all running Windows or Linux.
"The easiest way to work across platforms is to use an online office suite, such as Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Zoho Office or the iCloud versions of Apple's Pages, Numbers, and Keynote applications.
That's not your only option, however. Microsoft Office is available for both Windows and macOS (plus iPadOS), and can conveniently synchronize documents via OneDrive. As a free alternative, LibreOffice also works on the Mac, PC, and Linux, and integrates with cloud storage services like Google Drive to simplify managing and accessing your documents. "
"... you may prefer to set up your own WebDAV server for convenient document storage and sharing. This can reside on a commercial web host or on your own hardware – an easy way to set it up is via the Nextcloud collaboration framework, which is included in the DietPi OS distribution for the Raspberry Pi and other single-board computers."
"When you're working across multiple devices, the most fundamental requirement is retaining access to all your files. You could use a cloud provider like Box or OneDrive, but these only offer limited space unless you pay for a premium service.
You may prefer therefore to provision your own centralized storage across your local network, by repurposing an old computer as a file server, or as a NAS using TrueNAS Core. This gives you ongoing control and oversight over your shared storage, and complete freedom to expand it over time."
"Sharing peripherals between operating systems:
If you're using multiple computers on the same desk, you'll want to share peripherals where possible. ...
If you're using multiple computers on the same desk, you'll want to share peripherals where possible. ...
Switching to a multiplatform keyboard like the Logitech K780 can help. This wireless keyboard has combined Start/Alt, and Alt/Cmd keys to suit different platforms, and can instantly switch between three separate Bluetooth hosts at the touch of a function key – so you can easily share it between PC, a Mac and a tablet. The Logitech M720 mouse can likewise pair with three devices and switch between them as required.
...
...
If your PC is running a Professional edition of Windows 10 or 11, you can use Microsoft's Remote Desktop tool to access it from the Mac desktop. Connect using your PC's IP address, and your Windows username and password."
"... another tool you can try is Chrome Remote Desktop, which is a free add-on for Chrome-based browsers. Install it on both devices. Once installed, you'll be prompted to give each computer a unique name, and create a PIN of six or more digits to secure it. Now when you visit the web page on one machine, you'll be able to access and use the other one – as long as they're both logged into the same Google account."
Friday, October 13, 2023
KelTec P50 Blowback Semiauto 5.7x28mm Pistol
The KelTec P50 blowback-operated sem-iauto pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm with a 50-round magazine is an impressive combination of capacity, versatility and fun.
"It's a blowback-operated semi-auto chambered in 5.7x28 that holds an impressive 50 rounds in the magazine. The magazine design itself is not entirely new—it's the same used in FN's P90 submachine gun that first appeared over 30 years ago—but virtually everything else about this gun is original to KelTec."
Ruger 57 Pistol Review
The new Ruger-57 looks to put a charge into the 5.7x28mm pistol market:
"Externally, the Ruger-57 looks like a stretched Security-9, with a few unique features. This is a polymer-framed pistol, but it is not striker-fired. It is a single-action pistol with an internal hammer.
There is an ambidextrous 1911-style thumb safety that blocks the movement of the trigger: up for Safe, down for Fire. The safety can be engaged when the hammer is not cocked, and the long lever, while narrow, is easy to work with your thumb. There is also a safety lever on the trigger to prevent impact-related accidental discharges.
This pistol appears stretched because it sports a 4.94-inch barrel to get as much as possible out of the bottleneck high-velocity cartridge. Why 4.94 inches? Ruger says it's because the slide has a recessed breech face, so the distance between the breech face in the slide and the tip of the barrel is actually 5.0 inches."
"The Ruger's slide forward of the rear sight is drilled and tapped for an optic adapter plate, available separately at ShopRuger.com. Currently, the only plate available fits Burris and Vortex red dots."
"Current 5.7x28mm loads offer bullets between 28 and 40 grains in weight, running between 1,650 and 2,000 fps out of a handgun-length barrel. Most 40-grain loads will do roughly 1,700 fps."
Cartridge Comparison:
"The .22 TCM is meant for 1911-style guns, and it's basically a very shortened .223 case loaded with truncated 39- or 40-grain bullets. Out of pistol-length barrels, 40-grain bullets will do more than 1,900 fps.
The .22 WMR is a long rimfire round originally designed for small game rifles, but numerous pistols have been chambered in this cartridge. Loads offer bullets between 30 and 50 grains. This cartridge performs better out of rifle-length barrels, but in handguns you can expect to send 30-grain bullets downrange approaching 1,600 fps.
In terms of power, the 5.7x28mm fits between the .22 TCM and .22 WMR. However, there are other considerations.
As I mentioned, the .22 TCM is a proprietary cartridge, and Armscor/Rock Island Armory is the only company making ammo for it, and there are currently only two loads offered. Ammo for the .22 WMR is made by a number of companies, can be found all over and is the least expensive of these three calibers."
"Ballistically, it's more than suitable for small game. Hornady's V-Max bullets, available in several different 5.7x28mm loads, are designed to excel on small game. As a defensive pistol, you have merely to turn on your computer to hear the screeching of people proclaiming the 5.7x28mm cartridge is unsuitable for defensive use—never mind the fact that it was specifically designed for anti-personnel use. While the number of actual shootings involving this cartridge is low, it seems to have proven itself roughly as effective as a standard handgun round while providing less recoil, more magazine capacity, but more muzzle blast.
In ballistic gel block testing, these bullets, when fired out of handguns, vigorously fragment, and the bases penetrate 12 to 18 inches."
" With great sights, a long sight radius and an excellent trigger, shooting this pistol accurately and at speed is easy, whether you're hunting, plinking steel or training a new shooter. Currently, the only downsides are the availability of ammo and its cost."
Ruger LC Charger 5.7x28 Cheek Pistol
The new Ruger LC Charger 5.7x28 excels in the unorthodox role of cheek pistol. Using the cheek as a third point of contact when pistol shooting is the third dimension of shooting for the author.
Smith & Wesson Adds 5.7x28mm Caliber to M&P Line
Smith & Wesson jumps into the 5.7x28mm market with a well-designed version of its M&P pistol:
Thursday, October 12, 2023
Sunday, October 8, 2023
Smith & Wesson M&P .22 WMR Rimfire Pistol
The Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum, chambered in .22 WMR, is ideally suited for small-game hunting or plinking.
"The frame is described in S&W literature as full-sized ... The weight of the empty pistol is a mere 22 ounces, and it balances perfectly in the hand. The magazine capacity is a whopping 30 rounds, and two magazines come with the gun, all packed in a fitted hard-plastic case."
"The M&P 22s have S&W's unique TEMPO gas-operated action that keeps all parts locked up and in place until the bullet passes the gas port."
"... the M&P22 gobbled up all the ammo I fed it and placed the bullets pleasingly close together, including the 45- and 50-grain loads ...
The S&W literature states that it is critical the M&P22WMR should only use ammunition with jacketed bullets (JHP, TMJ, or FMJ) or the Hornady V-MAX with a polymer tip. Ammunition with copper-plated or polymer-coated bullets will not function reliably. Also, S&W says that birdshot loads will not reliably function in the pistol. Lastly, the primer sensitivity of some ammo may not function reliably either, so S&W has provided a list of ammo that they have tested and found reliable."
"... the M&P 22 is optics ready, and that most micro red dots can be mounted on the slide right out of the box."
" This pistol is REALLY LOUD! Be sure and wear good ear protection! Also, the ejected empties are red hot, so don't let them slip down your shirt collar!"
" Until recently, handguns for the .22 WMR were mostly limited to excellent revolvers from Ruger and Smith & Wesson. A void was the lack of suitable semi-auto pistols to fire it. Attempts to develop semi-auto pistols to fire the .22 (WMR) have met with varying degrees of success.
... Smith & Wesson has brought forth a new model that fills this void under the trusted M&P banner."
MSRP: $649
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Easy Car "Hacks"
Good uses for cooking spray, baking soda, insulation, hair conditioner, socks, and more.
Friday, October 6, 2023
Thursday, October 5, 2023
Tuesday, October 3, 2023
Heinlein's Future History
The Future History is a series of stories created by Robert A. Heinlein. It describes a projected future of the human race from the middle of the 20th century through the early 23rd century:
The Future History Chart: http://templetongate.net/graphics/literature/fhchartlarge.gif
Monday, October 2, 2023
Sunday, October 1, 2023
TFB Review: Alpha Foxtrot 1911-S15, It Takes Glock Mags! -The Firearm Blog
This 9mm 1911 accepts G-43X magazines.
https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2023/07/20/alpha-foxtrot-1911-s15/
https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2023/07/20/alpha-foxtrot-1911-s15/
Friday, September 29, 2023
6mm-223 (also known as 6X45mm)
[RETRO] .223 and 6mm-223 Load Data for Long-Range Handgunning:
6 x 45 mm - Published Manufacturer Loading Data:
6x45 / 6x45mm / 6mm-223 Loads:
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Monday, September 18, 2023
2013 Civic stereos
Stereos for 2013 Honda Civic
Check Crutchfield's scratch and dent prices also!
Kenwood DDX276BT ($199.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_113DDX276B/Kenwood-DDX276BT.html?tp=72334
DVD receiver
Accessories: $240.95 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (not included)
optional wireless remote
inputs: rear USB input, rear A/V input (mini), rear-view camera input
outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (2.5-volt front, rear, subwoofer), composite video output
Jensen CAR710X ($249.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_110CAR710X/Jensen-CAR710X-does-not-play-discs.html?tp=72334
Digital multimedia receiver (does not play discs)
Accessories: $188.96 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, etc. (allows you to retain the factory aux input and the use of your clock) - The HDCC-01 interface from Axxess allows you to retain the factory aux input and the use of your clock when replacing the radio in select Hondas. The interface retains all balance and fader functions with your new car stereo, and it's compatible with both amplified and non-amplified systems.
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
inputs: rear USB input, rear A/V input (RCA), rear-view camera input
outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
Pioneer DMH-2660NEX ($399.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_130DM2660/Pioneer-DMH-2660NEX.html?tp=72334
Digital multimedia receiver (does not play discs)
Accessories: $240.95 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
inputs: rear USB input, rear audio/video inputs, backup cam input (A/V input can be used for a 2nd camera)
outputs: video output, 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
JVC KW-M780BT ($329.95): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KWM780B/JVC-KW-M780BT.html?tp=72334
Digital multimedia receiver (does not play discs)
Accessories: $240.95 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
inputs: rear USB input, front- and rear-camera inputs, rear micro HDMI input, rear analog 3.5 mm A/V input (configurable for a third camera input)
outputs: rear analog video output (RCA), 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
SiriusXM SXV300V1 satellite radio tuner ($69.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_220SXV300/SiriusXM-SXV300V1-Tuner.html
Enjoy SiriusXM satellite radio with your compatible aftermarket or factory radio
Check Crutchfield's scratch and dent prices also!
Kenwood DDX276BT ($199.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_113DDX276B/Kenwood-DDX276BT.html?tp=72334
DVD receiver
Accessories: $240.95 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (not included)
optional wireless remote
inputs: rear USB input, rear A/V input (mini), rear-view camera input
outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (2.5-volt front, rear, subwoofer), composite video output
Jensen CAR710X ($249.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_110CAR710X/Jensen-CAR710X-does-not-play-discs.html?tp=72334
Digital multimedia receiver (does not play discs)
Accessories: $188.96 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, etc. (allows you to retain the factory aux input and the use of your clock) - The HDCC-01 interface from Axxess allows you to retain the factory aux input and the use of your clock when replacing the radio in select Hondas. The interface retains all balance and fader functions with your new car stereo, and it's compatible with both amplified and non-amplified systems.
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
inputs: rear USB input, rear A/V input (RCA), rear-view camera input
outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
Pioneer DMH-2660NEX ($399.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_130DM2660/Pioneer-DMH-2660NEX.html?tp=72334
Digital multimedia receiver (does not play discs)
Accessories: $240.95 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
inputs: rear USB input, rear audio/video inputs, backup cam input (A/V input can be used for a 2nd camera)
outputs: video output, 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
JVC KW-M780BT ($329.95): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KWM780B/JVC-KW-M780BT.html?tp=72334
Digital multimedia receiver (does not play discs)
Accessories: $240.95 - includes bezel, wiring, adapter for steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras
compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
inputs: rear USB input, front- and rear-camera inputs, rear micro HDMI input, rear analog 3.5 mm A/V input (configurable for a third camera input)
outputs: rear analog video output (RCA), 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
SiriusXM SXV300V1 satellite radio tuner ($69.99): https://www.crutchfield.com/p_220SXV300/SiriusXM-SXV300V1-Tuner.html
Enjoy SiriusXM satellite radio with your compatible aftermarket or factory radio
Idatalink is an interface module which allows an aftermarket radio to communicate with a modern vehicle databus. Modern cars use the databus for lots of things: steering wheel controls, telling the radio when to turn on and off, parking brake signal, reverse trigger for reverse camera, and amplifier control. Yes, you need it.
Maestro RR (IDataLink)
Honda: You'll retain your vehicle's steering wheel controls, Bluetooth, aux input, and factory amplifier.
Web-programmable radio replacement interface for integration with factory systems including:
Retains factory features:
Steering wheel controls
Media player
Hands-free telephone
Voice commands
Satellite radio modules
Added features:
Gauges - displays engine performance data on screen with select Kenwood, JVC, Pioneer, Sony, and Alpine receivers
Climate controls
Battery voltage
Tire pressure
Read and reset check engine codes
assign a secondary "press and hold" radio function to each factory button, effectively doubling what can be controlled.
and more!
Radar detection integration (Escort or K40):
Installing a Maestro-compatible radar detector provides a visual interface for the radar detector on the aftermarket radio screen. Alerts are shown in a dedicated screen or a widget on the home screen. All of the radar detector settings can be accessed and modified in menus of the radio.
https://www.idatalinkmaestro.com/en/solutions/radar-detector
Escort Maestro Portable Detector Kit: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_036400452/Escort-Maestro-Portable-Detector-Kit.html
Use your Escort radar detector with select JVC, Kenwood, or Pioneer car stereos (also requires iDatalink Maestro ADS-MRR2 adapter)
iDatalink Maestro RR2 Interface Module ($209.99) {NEEDED? iDatalink's Maestro ADS-MRR module ($159.99 separately) comes with the accessory kit for several radios}:
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_794ADSMRR2/iDatalink-Maestro-RR2-Interface-Module.html
Connect a new stereo and retain the steering wheel audio controls and other factory features in select vehicles
Maestro RR (IDataLink)
Honda: You'll retain your vehicle's steering wheel controls, Bluetooth, aux input, and factory amplifier.
Web-programmable radio replacement interface for integration with factory systems including:
Retains factory features:
Steering wheel controls
Media player
Hands-free telephone
Voice commands
Satellite radio modules
Added features:
Gauges - displays engine performance data on screen with select Kenwood, JVC, Pioneer, Sony, and Alpine receivers
Climate controls
Battery voltage
Tire pressure
Read and reset check engine codes
assign a secondary "press and hold" radio function to each factory button, effectively doubling what can be controlled.
and more!
Radar detection integration (Escort or K40):
Installing a Maestro-compatible radar detector provides a visual interface for the radar detector on the aftermarket radio screen. Alerts are shown in a dedicated screen or a widget on the home screen. All of the radar detector settings can be accessed and modified in menus of the radio.
https://www.idatalinkmaestro.com/en/solutions/radar-detector
Escort Maestro Portable Detector Kit: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_036400452/Escort-Maestro-Portable-Detector-Kit.html
Use your Escort radar detector with select JVC, Kenwood, or Pioneer car stereos (also requires iDatalink Maestro ADS-MRR2 adapter)
iDatalink Maestro RR2 Interface Module ($209.99) {NEEDED? iDatalink's Maestro ADS-MRR module ($159.99 separately) comes with the accessory kit for several radios}:
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_794ADSMRR2/iDatalink-Maestro-RR2-Interface-Module.html
Connect a new stereo and retain the steering wheel audio controls and other factory features in select vehicles
Friday, September 15, 2023
Emergency Gear to Keep in Each Car
https://www.truecar.com/blog/5-essentials-to-keep-in-your-car-in-case-of-an-emergency/
First-Aid Kit - with a variety of bandages, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, scissors, tweezers, and antibacterial spray. Check it annually to see what has expired.
Jumper Pack -Typical cars & SUVs will only need a 1,300-amp battery - big pickup with a diesel engine might need double that. Bring it inside to recharge a few times per year.
Multi-Tool, and a small set of basic hand tools.
Tire Inflator and Pressure Gauge - it can come in handy if the tire's leak is slow enough that you can pump it up enough to get to a tire shop. A can of fix-a-flat is a good idea too.
Snacks and Water - Look for pre-packaged snacks such as granola bars with a long shelf life and a low likelihood to melt into a mushy mess. Stainless steel bottles won't degrade as quickly as plastic, though they can get quite hot in summer. The FDA says that water is good in a plastic bottle for about two years.
Jumper Pack -Typical cars & SUVs will only need a 1,300-amp battery - big pickup with a diesel engine might need double that. Bring it inside to recharge a few times per year.
Multi-Tool, and a small set of basic hand tools.
Tire Inflator and Pressure Gauge - it can come in handy if the tire's leak is slow enough that you can pump it up enough to get to a tire shop. A can of fix-a-flat is a good idea too.
Snacks and Water - Look for pre-packaged snacks such as granola bars with a long shelf life and a low likelihood to melt into a mushy mess. Stainless steel bottles won't degrade as quickly as plastic, though they can get quite hot in summer. The FDA says that water is good in a plastic bottle for about two years.
Thursday, September 14, 2023
Update tailgate switch for more visibility - The Family Hauler/Roadtrip Van | Page 7 | Toyota Sienna Forum - siennachat.com
Search the list of projects for the one about the bright red tailgate close button.
https://www.siennachat.com/threads/traveler-the-family-hauler-roadtrip-van.72969/page-7
Cargo lights installation - The Family Hauler/Roadtrip Van | Page 9 | Toyota Sienna Forum - siennachat.com
Write-up for installing bright LED lights in rear door to light cargo area.
https://www.siennachat.com/threads/traveler-the-family-hauler-roadtrip-van.72969/page-9
https://www.siennachat.com/threads/traveler-the-family-hauler-roadtrip-van.72969/page-9
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Shock & Awesome: Mossberg 590S Shockwave, 590S Pump Battle
Comparing regular and short shotguns:
https://www.athlonoutdoors.com/article/mossberg-590s-shockwave/
https://www.athlonoutdoors.com/article/mossberg-590s-shockwave/
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Exercise Benefits for Diabetics
"Regular exercise has been proven to help weight loss, regulate appetite, and improve the metabolic profile, especially for people who are overweight and obese,"
"After 10 days, there was a decrease in food intake and body weight because of Lac-Phe, and it also enhanced glucose tolerance."
Saturday, September 9, 2023
WebStick - Instant ESP8266 Web Server / NAS in USB Stick Form Factor: Instructables
An interesting project for storing digital data:
https://www.instructables.com/WebStick-Instant-ESP8266-Web-Server-NAS-in-USB-Sti/
https://www.instructables.com/WebStick-Instant-ESP8266-Web-Server-NAS-in-USB-Sti/
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Friday, September 1, 2023
Taurus 856 Executive Grade revolvers & more
Taurus 856 Executive Grade: Full Review (38 Special +P):
Taurus Judge Executive Grade Revolver (.45 Colt/.410):
Sunday, August 27, 2023
Apple Watch Icons & Symbols
The Complete Apple Watch Icons & Symbols Guide (2023)
LEFT HANDED AR-15 Uppers
Left-Handed AR-15 Uppers - a left-handed rifle can be useful to a right-handed shooter in some competitions (you don't have to move your right hand from the pistol grip, and you can maintain stock weld - while single loading for example).
Lefty AR Upper — Not Just for Southpaws:
Best Left-Handed ARs: Parts & Complete Rifles:
https://www.pewpewtactical.com/best-left-handed-ar-15-rifles-parts/
"Most lowers are ambidextrous these days, so the upper receiver is where most people will really start their build."
5 Best Left-Handed AR-15 Uppers (2023) A Complete Guide:
https://lundestudio.com/left-handed-ar-15-uppers/
Pro2A Tactical - rifle & pistol lengths - several calibers:
https://pro2a-tactical.com/left-hand-ar-15-upper-assemblies.html?product_list_order=price
Davidson Defense 16.5" AR-15 5.56 NATO Left Handed Rifle Complete Upper Build Kit:
https://www.deltateamtactical.com/strigoi-556-nato-complete-upper-build-kit.html
Stag Arms Left Handed AR-15 Upper Receiver + BCG Combo:
https://ar15discounts.com/products/left-handed-ar-15-upper-receiver-bcg-combo/
Friday, August 25, 2023
Adding Wi-Fi to the Macintosh Portable - joshua stein
Info on updating several older computers, not jus Macs:
https://jcs.org/2023/08/23/scsiwifi
https://jcs.org/2023/08/23/scsiwifi
Monday, August 21, 2023
People are using AI to create imposter books on Amazon & Goodreads
"With the flood of AI content now published at Amazon, sometimes attributed to authors in a misleading or fraudulent manner, how can anyone reasonably expect working authors to spend every week for the rest of their lives policing this?
...
We desperately need guardrails on this landslide of misattribution and misinformation. Amazon and Goodreads, I beg you to create a way to verify authorship, or for authors to easily block fraudulent books credited to them. Do it now, do it quickly."
Monday, August 14, 2023
5 tips for YouTube TV to flip live streaming channels like a pro - CNET
An article from 3 years ago - improvements may have been made …
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/5-tips-for-youtube-tv-to-flip-live-streaming-channels-like-a-pro/
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/5-tips-for-youtube-tv-to-flip-live-streaming-channels-like-a-pro/
TV vs. Projector: Which Big Screen Should You Buy in 2023 - CNET
TVs are brighter and perform better at very high resolutions. Projectors work very well in dark rooms and can provide very large images.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/tv-vs-projector/
https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/tv-vs-projector/
Friday, August 11, 2023
The best Windows volume mixer just got better
EarTrumpet received options and shortcuts with its latest update.
Fwd: Easily jump between Windows 11 and Windows 365 (& Win-365 reviews)
Microsoft will let you jump between Windows 11 and Windows 365 with the flip of a switch (Aug 2023):
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/streaming-video/disney-plus-subscription-plans-spike-in-price-ad-supported-plans-are-unaffected
Please read this blog post for all the details on how to participate: https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=23432X820454&xcust=wp_us_9173243372859942000&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftechcommunity.microsoft.com%2Ft5%2Fwindows-it-pro-blog%2Fwindows-365-switch-now-available-in-public-preview%2Fba-p%2F3891857&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.windowscentral.com%2Fsoftware-apps%2Fwindows-11%2Fmicrosoft-will-let-you-jump-between-windows-11-and-windows-365-with-the-flip-of-a-switch
Windows 365 review: Can Windows in the cloud replace your PC (Sept 2021)?
A solid start for cloud-based Windows, although not without performance problems
https://www.itpro.com/cloud/cloud-computing/360760/windows-365-review-can-windows-in-the-cloud-replace-your-pc
"Pros:
+ Easy deployment
+ Works well across a variety of devices
+ Perfect for the new homeworking era
Cons:
- A bewildering number of configurations
- No graphics performance to speak of
- Not ideal for videoconferencing"
"Windows 365 is designed to let employees stream a full Windows desktop from whatever hardware they have to hand – an old desktop PC, a MacBook, even an iPad."
"Running Windows 365 in the Vivaldi browser on our MacBook Pro, for instance, worked okay, with the Windows desktop automatically resizing to the shape and size of the browser window. But the MacBook's webcam wasn't recognised when we attempted a Google Meet, and pressing print on a Word document resulted in nothing more than a PDF being made available to download.
Running that same instance using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app made all those problems melt away: the printer connected to our home-office Wi-Fi network was automatically recognised, the webcam kicked in, and as an added bonus the Windows desktop was now spread across both our external monitor and attached laptop, rather than merely being confined to a browser window."
"If an employee's job involves lots of big file transfers, this set-up could prove much more efficient than a local machine, where the bottleneck is the speed of their broadband connection."
Microsoft 365 Personal Review (Mar 2023) - Microsoft's Office apps are still the best:
https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/microsoft-365-personal
"Microsoft 365—the current name for the apps and services formerly known as Office 365—is the behemoth of office suites and the one every competitor tries to match. It runs almost everywhere, with full-featured editions for Windows and macOS, surprisingly powerful apps for iOS and Android, and slick web-based versions. Microsoft 365 has all the collaborative features found in cloud-only suites like Google Workspace, plus all the benefits of disk-based apps: speed, security, and the ability to work offline."
"Pros:
* Most powerful office apps of any competitor
* Available on almost all platforms
* Smooth collaboration features
* Elegant, user-friendly interface with extensive help features
* All-in-one app for mail, contacts, and calendar
Cons:
* Problems accessing documents through web browsers during testing
* Automated features in Word produce some unpredictable results
* Some advanced features can be hard to access"
"A Microsoft 365 Personal subscription costs $69.99 per year and includes access to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, and Skype apps for one user on up to five devices. It also gets you 1TB of OneDrive online storage. You also get Sway for interactive online reports and presentations, forms for creating surveys and quizzes, and Microsoft's to-do list app, To Do."
"Early in 2023, Microsoft announced an even cheaper option, Microsoft 365 Basic, which gets you 100GB of OneDrive storage and includes only the web and mobile versions of the apps, but it costs just $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year.
...
These prices are roughly comparable to Google Workspace, which changes $6 and $12 per month, respectively, for its Business Starter and Business Standard plans."
Windows 365: Hands on with Microsoft's pricey new Cloud PC subscriptions (Aug 2021):
https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-365-hands-on-with-microsofts-pricey-new-cloud-pc-subscriptions/
"What if you could replace your physical PC with a virtual alternative that lived permanently in the cloud? What if you could sign in to that PC on any desktop PC, Mac, or mobile device and pick up exactly where you left off last time, with all your apps and data files ready to go?
That's the promise of Microsoft's new Windows 365 service, which offers subscribers a Cloud PC running Windows 11..."
"After I assigned the Windows 365 license to a user account, I needed to choose a virtual hardware configuration, which involves a combination of virtual CPUs (up to 8), RAM (up to 32GB), and storage (up to 512GB). The more resources you assign to the Cloud PC, the higher the monthly subscription price."
"The browser is fine for casual connections, but you'll have a better experience using Microsoft's Remote Desktop client ...
On a Windows 10 PC, you can configure the Cloud PC to run in a window or to use the full screen (and even use all displays in a multi-monitor configuration). That experience is virtually indistinguishable from how you'd work with a local PC."
"If a Cloud PC can allow a remote employee to work from home on a personal PC without the company having to buy, ship, and support a fully managed, company-issued PC, the cost might even result in net savings. Those remote employees can have secure access to a managed Cloud PC on any personal device, such as a home PC, an iPad, or even a mobile phone."
Microsoft Office 365 Review (Jun 2022): https://www.crazyegg.com/blog/microsoft-office-365-review/
"While Microsoft Office 365 offers a wide range of amazing features, it isn't the only option in the market. We've compiled a list of a few other office suite software that take productivity to the next level to help you pick a solution that's most suitable based on your requirements and budget.
Google Workspace — The Best for Most
Microsoft 365 — The Best for Online And Offline Use
Zoho Workplace — The Best Bare-Bones Basic Suite
iWork — The Best for Apple Devices
WPS Office — The Best Microsoft Clone for Non-Microsoft Users"
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/streaming-video/disney-plus-subscription-plans-spike-in-price-ad-supported-plans-are-unaffected
Please read this blog post for all the details on how to participate: https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=23432X820454&xcust=wp_us_9173243372859942000&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftechcommunity.microsoft.com%2Ft5%2Fwindows-it-pro-blog%2Fwindows-365-switch-now-available-in-public-preview%2Fba-p%2F3891857&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.windowscentral.com%2Fsoftware-apps%2Fwindows-11%2Fmicrosoft-will-let-you-jump-between-windows-11-and-windows-365-with-the-flip-of-a-switch
Windows 365 review: Can Windows in the cloud replace your PC (Sept 2021)?
A solid start for cloud-based Windows, although not without performance problems
https://www.itpro.com/cloud/cloud-computing/360760/windows-365-review-can-windows-in-the-cloud-replace-your-pc
"Pros:
+ Easy deployment
+ Works well across a variety of devices
+ Perfect for the new homeworking era
Cons:
- A bewildering number of configurations
- No graphics performance to speak of
- Not ideal for videoconferencing"
"Windows 365 is designed to let employees stream a full Windows desktop from whatever hardware they have to hand – an old desktop PC, a MacBook, even an iPad."
"Running Windows 365 in the Vivaldi browser on our MacBook Pro, for instance, worked okay, with the Windows desktop automatically resizing to the shape and size of the browser window. But the MacBook's webcam wasn't recognised when we attempted a Google Meet, and pressing print on a Word document resulted in nothing more than a PDF being made available to download.
Running that same instance using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app made all those problems melt away: the printer connected to our home-office Wi-Fi network was automatically recognised, the webcam kicked in, and as an added bonus the Windows desktop was now spread across both our external monitor and attached laptop, rather than merely being confined to a browser window."
"If an employee's job involves lots of big file transfers, this set-up could prove much more efficient than a local machine, where the bottleneck is the speed of their broadband connection."
Microsoft 365 Personal Review (Mar 2023) - Microsoft's Office apps are still the best:
https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/microsoft-365-personal
"Microsoft 365—the current name for the apps and services formerly known as Office 365—is the behemoth of office suites and the one every competitor tries to match. It runs almost everywhere, with full-featured editions for Windows and macOS, surprisingly powerful apps for iOS and Android, and slick web-based versions. Microsoft 365 has all the collaborative features found in cloud-only suites like Google Workspace, plus all the benefits of disk-based apps: speed, security, and the ability to work offline."
"Pros:
* Most powerful office apps of any competitor
* Available on almost all platforms
* Smooth collaboration features
* Elegant, user-friendly interface with extensive help features
* All-in-one app for mail, contacts, and calendar
Cons:
* Problems accessing documents through web browsers during testing
* Automated features in Word produce some unpredictable results
* Some advanced features can be hard to access"
"A Microsoft 365 Personal subscription costs $69.99 per year and includes access to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, and Skype apps for one user on up to five devices. It also gets you 1TB of OneDrive online storage. You also get Sway for interactive online reports and presentations, forms for creating surveys and quizzes, and Microsoft's to-do list app, To Do."
"Early in 2023, Microsoft announced an even cheaper option, Microsoft 365 Basic, which gets you 100GB of OneDrive storage and includes only the web and mobile versions of the apps, but it costs just $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year.
...
These prices are roughly comparable to Google Workspace, which changes $6 and $12 per month, respectively, for its Business Starter and Business Standard plans."
Windows 365: Hands on with Microsoft's pricey new Cloud PC subscriptions (Aug 2021):
https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-365-hands-on-with-microsofts-pricey-new-cloud-pc-subscriptions/
"What if you could replace your physical PC with a virtual alternative that lived permanently in the cloud? What if you could sign in to that PC on any desktop PC, Mac, or mobile device and pick up exactly where you left off last time, with all your apps and data files ready to go?
That's the promise of Microsoft's new Windows 365 service, which offers subscribers a Cloud PC running Windows 11..."
"After I assigned the Windows 365 license to a user account, I needed to choose a virtual hardware configuration, which involves a combination of virtual CPUs (up to 8), RAM (up to 32GB), and storage (up to 512GB). The more resources you assign to the Cloud PC, the higher the monthly subscription price."
"The browser is fine for casual connections, but you'll have a better experience using Microsoft's Remote Desktop client ...
On a Windows 10 PC, you can configure the Cloud PC to run in a window or to use the full screen (and even use all displays in a multi-monitor configuration). That experience is virtually indistinguishable from how you'd work with a local PC."
"If a Cloud PC can allow a remote employee to work from home on a personal PC without the company having to buy, ship, and support a fully managed, company-issued PC, the cost might even result in net savings. Those remote employees can have secure access to a managed Cloud PC on any personal device, such as a home PC, an iPad, or even a mobile phone."
Microsoft Office 365 Review (Jun 2022): https://www.crazyegg.com/blog/microsoft-office-365-review/
"While Microsoft Office 365 offers a wide range of amazing features, it isn't the only option in the market. We've compiled a list of a few other office suite software that take productivity to the next level to help you pick a solution that's most suitable based on your requirements and budget.
Google Workspace — The Best for Most
Microsoft 365 — The Best for Online And Offline Use
Zoho Workplace — The Best Bare-Bones Basic Suite
iWork — The Best for Apple Devices
WPS Office — The Best Microsoft Clone for Non-Microsoft Users"
Wednesday, August 9, 2023
GM 4L60E Vs. 4L80E Transmission Differences And How To Swap It
Check the gear ratios (best mileage?) as well as other points of comparison:
https://mechanicbase.com/transmission/4l60e-vs-4l80e-differences/
https://mechanicbase.com/transmission/4l60e-vs-4l80e-differences/
Monday, August 7, 2023
Variations on Power Steering
What Is Power Steering and How Does It Work?
How Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) Works, And Why It's Better Than Hydraulic:
Electric power steering (EPS) - Overview electric power steering system (for assisted & highly automated driving):
A Comprehensive Comparison Test of Electric and Hydraulic Steering Assist:
Thursday, August 3, 2023
Low-cost additive turns concrete slabs into super-fast energy storage
The slab under your home can be the backup battery needed to store energy from your solar panels.
https://newatlas.com/architecture/mit-concrete-supercapacitor/
https://newatlas.com/architecture/mit-concrete-supercapacitor/
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
(Actos) Pioglitazone - the Forgotten Diabetes Drug
Some flawed testing has given it a bad reputation it doesn't deserve:
"Pioglitazone is a member of the thiazolidinedione (TZD) family of medications that is approved for type 2 diabetes. It is sometimes sold under the brand name Actos, though it is also available as a generic. It is a once-daily pill.
The American Diabetes Association explains that pioglitazone can "help insulin work better in the muscle and fat and reduce glucose production in the liver."
The American Diabetes Association explains that pioglitazone can "help insulin work better in the muscle and fat and reduce glucose production in the liver."
Why Pioglitazone Is Unique Among Diabetes Drugs:
DeFronzo states that pioglitazone is "the only true drug which improves the insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes.""
DeFronzo states that pioglitazone is "the only true drug which improves the insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes.""
Sunday, July 30, 2023
Wednesday, July 26, 2023
Ruger Blackhawk white outline rear sight blade
This is the high height blade. Check other sources (including Ruger & www.gunpartscorp.com) for correct height.
Colored front sight kit
Primarily for revolvers, but can be adapted to many firearms.
Includes red, green, orange, yellow, and white:
White outline S&W revolver sight blades
Measure existing units to determine which is the best height.
Best 357 SIG Pistols – 2022
Glocks are less expensive and more flexible (caliber swaps etc.). Sigs are all metal and very well finished.
Monday, July 24, 2023
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
Saturday, July 8, 2023
Remove these 5 dangerous tech gadgets from your home
" Any gadget with a lithium-ion battery is susceptible to damage over time. A swollen battery is a serious issue that can lead to fires, injuries, and property damage."
" The latest security standard is WPA3, released in 2018. If your router is not WPA3 compatible, WPA2-PSK AES is the next most secure option. It's a sign you need to get a new router."
"Where there's an internet connection, there's potential for hackers to wreak havoc. Security updates keep you safe from cybercriminals' latest tricks, so it's vital to keep your smartphone, computer and all the rest up to date.
What happens when your gear no longer receives updates? It's time to upgrade ..."
" The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regularly warns about dangerous products and gives you steps to take if you have a recalled item in your home."
" Even without obvious signs of damage, old power strips can be dangerous. If you have no idea the last time you replaced yours, add it to your shopping list."
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