Saturday, September 28, 2024

Current requirements for model rocket motors

If you have too much current, the igniters often fail without lighting up the motor. You want something like an incandescent lightbulb, not like a fuse.
https://www.privatedata.com/byb/rocketry/Ignitor/igniters.pdf?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1UDzZn_f2PeuxTaFI_HJy2pcgNESeD95xvibVEFQfxU54R8hRpytIu9WU_aem_IJ4rwzWLxEgs1XpSvvidDQ
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Thursday, September 26, 2024

Capacitor Plague (1999 - 2007)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor_plague
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Monday, September 23, 2024

Malwarebytes antivirus, etc.

Malwarebytes paired with Windows Defender is reputed to be a pretty good solution for home users.

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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Why you should utilize DiskPart on Windows, and how to use it

https://www.xda-developers.com/why-use-diskpart-windows-how-to-do-it/
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Sunday, September 15, 2024

Automotive Night Vision devices ...

Night Vision in a Vehicle: Is It Worth It? (July, 2022)  

Night Vision for Your Car or Truck:  (Amazon search: "night vision camera for cars." )
https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/diy/a31936162/want-night-vision-for-your-car-or-truck-there-are-options-at-every-price-point/
"Unlike night vision on Cadillacs and BMWs, the Lanmodo (https://www.lanmodo.com/lanmodo-1080p-automotive-night-vision-system.html) unit is not infrared. It takes whatever light is left out there once the sun goes down and sort of multiplies it on the little screen. I was amazed at what it could see.
...
And while those infrared cameras see only in black and white, the Lanmodo broadcast in beautiful color."

"Anyway, night vision stuff is fun, but to be really useful, in my opinion, you would need to incorporate the large animal warning software offered by many carmakers. So yes, it looks like you're gonna have to buy that Cadillac." or BMW, Mercedes, etc.

NIGHTRIDE THERMAL INC., LEADER IN VEHICLE MOUNTED THERMAL CAMERAS
https://www.einpresswire.com/article/729943949/nightride-thermal-inc-leader-in-vehicle-mounted-thermal-cameras-achieves-iso-9001-certification
https://getnightride.com/
NIGHTRIDE for Daily drivers (expensive):  https://getnightride.com/pages/what-is-nightride  -  uses your phone for display
Product comparison (scroll down):  https://getnightride.com/pages/nightride-trailblazer-trailblazer-grille-mount-with-ethernet

https://www.amazon.com/REDTIGER-Screen-Parking-Monitor-F7N/dp/B0C6YBHKJ5/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LtE8qHvuiWz5u9I4MIaPtotIXCtxPJRsxYIZcaryP6DNMBjcJ_wSiGnXoQmnGkwxPyGs3I-NKMab7Q-nGpm9fim8ow_0ZFJqA0fd0AdyTich3M4ZWzo4f4UWNFQcTEn_XDec_bgTCgi52yMnVhHjEkpbzbfv6HGm9hOaLwxuEO1l6u0zRv9kG64p0NZtkrgc90StLcdmB9_l3ZguCWrppIlt_G1NOOsqRFBRsOUBeMhEyxgO-2VnKVpH96dYO_25YelcElzujN4kKdt-xxs9YK-TQQEbSmzmlZBkgUzy62Q.Isw9MCvA3qqPky8EObSelTrhZaxg5pRoXk5ePWp7UoY&dib_tag=se&keywords=night+vision+camera+for+car&qid=1726421180&refinements=p_36%3A9200-%2Cp_72%3A1248879011%2Cp_85%3A2470955011&rnid=2470954011&rps=1&s=electronics&sr=1-1
3.18" touchscreen.
"... enhanced super night vision ensures visibility even in low-light situations"
"... designed to withstand a wide range of temperature. Whether it's scorching hot summers or freezing winters"
"Android and IOS users can connect to dashcam WiFi via the Redtiger app. Although the dash cam is installed wired, you can enjoy wireless control on your smartphone, quickly access your recorded videos"

https://www.amazon.com/AZDOME-Touchscreen-Parking-Monitor-Support/dp/B0CB65N6VH/ref=pd_ci_mcx_pspc_dp_d_2_t_1?pd_rd_w=kyRBa&content-id=amzn1.sym.568f3b6b-5aad-4bfd-98ee-d827f03151e4&pf_rd_p=568f3b6b-5aad-4bfd-98ee-d827f03151e4&pf_rd_r=AYD2QWGCPFX2A11B0NV5&pd_rd_wg=fMMPa&pd_rd_r=b222cd57-4cc4-4ef5-a060-c2132e426fcf&pd_rd_i=B0CB65N6VH&th=1
4" touchscreen.  so-so reviews, not a big emphasis on night vision.  It supports 3 cameras at once (2 could be used as side mirrors, or 1 rear and 1 driver or load)

Night Vision System with IP67 Rear Camera: "night vision is Integrated with 8" screen" ($427+)
https://www.amazon.com/LANMODO-Dashcam-Inside-Camera-Hardware/dp/B0BWRDLW8Z/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=30XH735ODOMU6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lUVzVEEN5lS9cnXYOvorruZo-mh35m26XNaUP_nhUehmq59R7HoZPIc7Fj71hJ0waiIahIUQQ0S-qdv54U2TtlHmCC0qp8Bw3SezacpFq3VOSycPKLfgBdqqHzCoFaQirJM8lhBaqbIrrk5yds4eSjBlNK8iS_b1BKCzofxj6ansqs3RikYDUUDK0Hz_OAtXWi8MfrpD-itCSc3-r_LFj-8f1OcpSTp75pOKJB5JlKL_8whAcVip8dlSbVsHnayunFE3ABucpv0apB1q6j4kW0VQXsiyVqKFXrvZsddh954.WqdbQzxrYjleuaILuncmXtzUUe95plYHDDrC8yaOd9U&dib_tag=se&keywords=night%2Bvision%2Bcamera%2Bfor%2Bcar%2Blarge%2Bscreen&qid=1726422146&s=electronics&sprefix=night%2Bvision%2Bcamera%2Bfor%2Bcar%2Blarge%2Bscreen%2Celectronics%2C152&sr=1-1-spons&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.c3015c4a-46bb-44b9-81a4-dc28e6d374b3&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

"Lanmodo Vast M1 accepts 12V input voltage, for cars with 24V output voltage, the Vast M1 cannot be connected to OBD2 port for power supply, it must be connected to cigarette lighter with a 24V to 12V voltage converter."
"Lanmodo Vast M1 adopts low-light imaging technology. It needs faint light like moonlight or street lights to form clear images. It is not recommended to be used under totally dark environments."

(*) Upgraded 10'' Rear View Mirror Dash Cam Night Vision 1080P FHD Full Touch Screen Front and Rear View Backup Camera ($60):
https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Mirror-Camera-Recording-G-Sensor/dp/B07Z3LXZLH?psc=1&pd_rd_w=2jxby&content-id=amzn1.sym.ea1d9533-fbb7-4608-bb6f-bfdceb6f6336&pf_rd_p=ea1d9533-fbb7-4608-bb6f-bfdceb6f6336&pf_rd_r=4DY5KFEV5EJVKK8CCY9S&pd_rd_wg=grZN7&pd_rd_r=488af979-0525-4b74-8107-9b366c64d3e3&ref_=sspa_dk_detail_1
  • 10 Inch" TouchScreen
  • Both 1080P front and 1080P rear camera
  • Super night vision - both 1080P front and 1080p rear view camera presents night vision in low light conditions ...
  • Long 10 meters backup camera cable(33ft)
  • 128G SD card max (not included)
  • 24H Parking Monitor - Loop Recording, G-sensor detects locks the collision footage. An extra ACC hardwire kit is needed for this
  • You can easily adjust the brightness by swiping the screen left or right.


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Thursday, September 12, 2024

Chevy & GMC LS Cylinder Heads compared

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Sunday, September 8, 2024

Riley's rebuilds - carbureators

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Friday, September 6, 2024

Satellite Communicators - back country support

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator - back country support
Satellite messengers (not a voice phone) like this are increasingly being used by folks driving or hiking far from cell-phone coverage.  This one is linked to your smart-phone for a familiar interface (use your phone's regular messaging app over the Iridium satellite network).  It includes GPS and a stand-alone SOS button.
(Note that you'll also have to pay a monthly fee to use the satellite network your phone connects to, just like you would a cellular network.)

Available at Cabela's, Amazon, REI, Scheels, Walmart and other online stores.
"... ZOLEO, the affordable accessory that extends your smartphone messaging coverage to everywhere on Earth and provides a safety system you can count on."

Walmart:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/ZOLEO-Satellite-Communicator-Two-Way-Global-SMS-Text-Messenger-Email-Emergency-SOS-Alerting-Check-in-GPS-Location-Android-iOS-Smartphone-Accessory/477349850?from=/search

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/ZOLEO-Satellite-Messenger/dp/B07X59RH7T/
Others: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=satellite+phones&crid=2QYR2CEJ89MN1&sprefix=satellite%2Caps%2C163&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_9

Cabela's: https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/zoleo-satellite-communicator
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The Best Satellite Phones (and messengers) of 2024:
    https://gearjunkie.com/technology/best-satellite-phone

The 5 Best Satellite Messengers of 2024:
    https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-personal-locator-beacon

The best satellite phones for global calls and connecting outdoors:
    https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-satellite-phone/
"Messaging vs. calling -
When you travel or go on outside adventures, having a fully loaded SAT phone may not be necessary. Opting for a more basic satellite communication solution also means saving money. 
You've already got a smartphone—what you need is another layer of communication safety outside the cell phone zone. 
If you want to keep it simple, consider a satellite GPS messenger. These devices allow you to send messages to family and friends, letting them know you are safe, and also have important extra safety features like GPS location and SOS signals."

6 Best Satellite Phones of 2024:
    https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/technology/best-satellite-phones

Emergency SOS via satellite -  Apple's iPhone safety feature:
    https://www.pocket-lint.com/apple-emergency-sos-via-satellite-iphone-features-explained/
  • "Apple introduced Emergency SOS via satellite on the iPhone 14 and 15 models, allowing users to contact emergency services in areas without reception.
  •  This feature is for emergencies only and cannot be used for calls or other purposes. It will be routed to the appropriate emergency services or the AAA for roadside assistance.
  • Satellite coverage is required to use Emergency SOS via satellite, and users will be guided through the process of sending an emergency text."
  • "This is a messaging system - you can't use it to place calls or anything else - it's for emergencies only and will be routed through to the appropriate emergency services, or the AAA for roadside assistance."
  • " The service was only available in the US and Canada at launch. This includes Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, but not Guam or American Samoa.
  • It expanded to the UK, Ireland, France and Germany in December 2022, and then to Australia and New Zealand in April 2023, and by the end of 2023 the list will also include Austria, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland.
  • ... However, the roadside assistance part of Emergency SOS is currently US-only, since it's in tight partnership with the AAA."

If you see SOS, No Service, or Searching on your iPhone or iPad:
   https://support.apple.com/en-us/120000

Use Emergency SOS on your iPhone - With Emergency SOS, you can quickly and easily call for help and alert your emergency contacts:  https://support.apple.com/en-us/104992
"When you make a call with SOS, your iPhone automatically calls the local emergency number and shares your location information with emergency services1. In some countries and regions, you might need to choose the service that you need.
...
On iPhone 14 or later (all models), you can even use Emergency SOS via satellite to text emergency services when no cellular and Wi-Fi coverage is available."

Use Emergency SOS via satellite on your iPhone:  https://support.apple.com/en-us/101573



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Thursday, September 5, 2024

Iomega Zip drives

Still handy today for small files if you don't want to use USB sticks:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zip_drive
" Zip disks must be used in a drive with an equal or greater storage capacity. Higher-capacity drives can read lower-capacity media. The 250 MB drive writes much more slowly to 100 MB disks than the 100 MB drive,... They can be formatted in any version of Windows as normal... The 750 MB drive has read-only support for 100 MB disks."
" Sales of Zip drives and disks declined steadily from 1999 to 2003.[10] Zip disks had a relatively high cost per megabyte compared to the falling costs of then-new CD-R and CD-RW discs."
"... during their prime, Zip disks greatly eased the exchange of files that were too big to fit into a standard 3+1⁄2-inch floppy or an email attachment, and there was no high-speed connection to transfer the file to the recipient."
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"New" Thunderbirds (2002-2005)

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Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Swiss Micros calculators - updated HP clones with RPN

These get great reviews on FB's HP RPN site (https://www.facebook.com/groups/hpcalc/):

" The DM16L is the programmer's calculator designed to display and work with numbers in hexadecimal, decimal, octal and binary, and convert numbers from one base to another. A number of specialized functions are provided to assist the programmer, including left- and right-shifting, masking, and bitwise logical operations."  https://www.swissmicros.com/product/dm16l
CHF (Swiss Franc) 149 = about $175
Console Mode: " Once the serial connection to the calculator is established, calculator responds to switching to Serial Console Mode..."
" The USB connection features a command line interface for saving and restoring complete calculator states.
Firmware update via USB is possible using the SwissMicros Firmware Update Tool (on Windows) or standard lpc21isp utility on Linux and MacOS."
Uses RPN - "The Hewlett-Packard Voyager series of calculators were introduced by Hewlett-Packard in 1981.[4] All members of this series are programmable, use Reverse Polish Notation, and feature continuous memory. Nearly identical in appearance, each model provided different capabilities and was aimed at different user markets." 
" HP-16C – computer programmer's calculator (1982–1989)."
" The HP Voyager series calculators are keystroke programmable, meaning that it can remember and later execute sequences of keystrokes to solve particular problems of interest to the user. These keystroke programs, in addition to performing any operation normally available on the keyboard, can also make use of conditional and unconditional branching and looping instructions, allowing programs to perform repetitive operations and make decisions."

From FB: " They are slightly different beasts. The DM41X runs the original HP-41CX ROM code on emulated hardware while the DM42 runs the "Free42" software emulator on the native hardware. The DM41X is much faster than an original HP-41CX, but the DM42 is way, way faster than the DM41X. For comparison, the DM41X takes 407s to solve the "N Queens" problem on a 7x7 board; the DM42 solves it in 16s on battery power, and 6.8s on USB power."

"The DM42, one of our flagship line-up of RPN calculators, is a true homage to the legendary HP-42S, widely regarded as one of the most desired calculators ever made. The DM42 is the most precise calculator on the worldwide market - second to none - and uses the powerful and proven RPN logic. The DM42 runs Free42, based on a decimal floating-point math library and IEEE 754-2008 quadruple precision decimal floating-point, encoding numbers in 16 bytes and giving 34 decimal places of precision with exponents ranging from -6143 to +6144."

"The DM41X, another member of our flagship line-up of RPN calculators, is a faithful recreation of the software environment of the HP-41CX, one of the most versatile calculators ever created and the first alphanumerical calculator, in a modern hardware architecture. Easily share or back up your programs or your entire DM41X environment and use hundreds of existing, professionally developed software applications with this rugged calculator sporting a stainless steel case and a Gorilla Glass screen.Like all SwissMicros calculators, the DM41X uses the efficient and time-tested RPN logic."
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Monday, September 2, 2024

Can I Get Sound Notifications on Both iPhone & Apple Watch

How to Get Sound Notifications on Both iPhone and Apple Watch:
https://techwiser.com/how-to-get-sound-notifications-on-both-iphone-and-apple-watch/
"If your iPhone is unlocked, your notifications will arrive on the iPhone itself and will not go to the Watch. It makes sense because if you are using the iPhone, you should be able to see the notifications on the phone itself. You shouldn't have to look at your watch to check the notifications.
...
On the other hand, if your iPhone is locked, which indicates that you are not using your phone, the notifications will arrive on the Apple Watch provided it is unlocked.
...
But the problem arises when a user wants notifications to arrive on both the devices i.e., Apple Watch and iPhone. You may ask, why? Well, every user has different reasons. The primary reason being the sound of the notification is louder on the iPhone than on the Watch.

Sadly, Apple doesn't provide any direct setting to achieve this behavior. However, there's a workaround that lets you get notifications on both Apple Watch and iPhone."
"To get notifications on both Apple Watch and iPhone, you need to turn off the wrist detection feature. Unfortunately, you will have to sacrifice certain things after you turn off wrist detection:
  •     Heart rate tracking and it's notifications are turned off.
  •     Your watch will not lock or unlock automatically.
  •     You will have to enter the passcode to authorize payments using Apple Watch.
  •     Emergency calls will not be made in case of fall detection.
  •     Some other activity measurements could also stop working."

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"... by design, when using an iPhone that is locked, it will route all text messages notification alerts to the iWatch.  If the phone is unlocked it will not."
"You can turn off Apple Watch notifications and then get all your notifications on the iPhone by using the iPhone "Watch" app -> Messages -> Notifications Off"

"You can send Apple Watch Feedback and ask for a feature change
Https://www.apple.com/feedback/watch.html
They will not reply, but it does get read."

"     If the watch is on silent (which it can be if the phone has been switched to silent during the day, the watch stays on silent) you don't get anything.

On your phone, go to the Watch app. Go to General>Do Not Disturb>Mirror iPhone and turn it off. That way, your watch will not get switched to silent when your phone is. Also, go to Sounds & Haptics. Make sure that Haptic Alerts are enabled and that you have ticked "Prominent'. "

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"Welcome to Apple Support Communities!  

If we understand your post correctly, audible notifications on your phone randomly stop. W'ed like to help!

Let's check to ensure  that a feature called Deliver Quietly is off. When Deliver Quietly is on these alerts occur in the Control Center, but they don't appear on the Lock screen, don't have a banner or badge symbol, and don't make any noises. Check out the section, Manage notifications in the article below.

Use notifications on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. https://support.apple.com/HT201925

If the issue remains after following those steps, try the steps in the article below for issues with sound.
If you hear no sound or distorted sound from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch speaker. https://support.apple.com/HT203794 "

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Thank you for using the Apple Support Communities.

It sounds like you're having problems with Notifications and we're happy to help! If you haven't done so already, follow the steps found in the Apple Support article If you hear no sound or distorted sound from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch speaker. https://support.apple.com/kb/HT203794

If you're still having problems with Notifications, Connect iPhone to the internet (https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/connect-to-the-internet-iphd1cf4268/ios), and then try the following steps:
  1. "Make sure that the app supports notifications. Go to Settings > Notifications, select the app, and make sure that Allow Notifications is on.
  2. If you have notifications turned on for an app but you're not receiving alerts, you might not have Banners selected. Go to Settings > Notifications, select the app, then select Banners.
  3. Make sure that you're signed in to your Apple ID. https://support.apple.com/kb/HT204053
  4. Make sure that Do Not Disturb is off. https://support.apple.com/kb/HT204321
  5. If you've recently installed an app or restored from a backup, open the app to start getting notifications."
For additional information check out the Apple Support articles below.
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