tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641907349307923782024-03-14T21:18:51.649-04:00GizmoEditor.comTech news from Ric Manning’s Gizmo Editor blog: news and reviews of new apps, websites, digital services, electronic games and personal technology including mobile phones, tablets and accessories.
Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.comBlogger1513125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-39019990722768294242024-03-14T17:20:00.001-04:002024-03-14T21:18:18.555-04:00PS27 has a venture fund for startup entrepreneurs<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYGzbfDTCod5U1xYQbjXnxrYDurUs_gTWU8dEVic_3p-2UUDvwwVJrjU_9jiqBn3Qz4bNDcI6GzaekVqN5vHZk1Xd62bZ48BPqoMZufV0igWhJeNhmAyGLi0BoG5-SQbmVd-ubmp_yIBWICUaI1EeWjKN8bCtQHAUnqZMPGpRdPD5uKKNgjz_kU4R2Gc/s1186/pic.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="1186" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYGzbfDTCod5U1xYQbjXnxrYDurUs_gTWU8dEVic_3p-2UUDvwwVJrjU_9jiqBn3Qz4bNDcI6GzaekVqN5vHZk1Xd62bZ48BPqoMZufV0igWhJeNhmAyGLi0BoG5-SQbmVd-ubmp_yIBWICUaI1EeWjKN8bCtQHAUnqZMPGpRdPD5uKKNgjz_kU4R2Gc/s320/pic.png" width="320" /></a></div>You are probably familiar with "Shark Tank," the TV show where budding entrepreneurs pitch their business plans to a panel of rich folks hoping one of them will be their investment partner. <p></p><p><a href="https://ps27ventures.com" target="_blank">PS27 Ventures</a> is built on a similar idea. It's also a potential funding resource for startups but without all the celebrity glitz.</p><p>PS27 Ventures is based in Jacksonville, FL, the home of company founder Jim Stallings. A former Marine Corps captain, Stallings worked for General Electric and IBM where he managed the company's Linux software business and its intellectual property division. </p><p>Like the TV show, Stallings and his crew interview early-stage entrepreneurs who are looking for venture capital to launch or grow their businesses. They can request an opportunity to tell their story by filling out an application form on the PS27 website.</p><p>The site lists more than 15 client companies in areas such a e-commerce, financial technology and food services, many of them with minority, veteran and female founders. Examples include </p><p>Smartbox, a healthy snack subscription service, Ryze, which makes mushroom blended coffees, Payall, which has a platform for cross-border payments and international money transfers, and NotedSource, which matches businesses with academic researchers. </p><p>PS27 is also exploring potential partnerships with young Florida-based businesses in the B2B, clean energy and SaaS arenas. One example is Sensatek Propulsion Technologies in Daytona Beach, a company that develops sensors for high-temperature applications in energy, aviation and aerospace industries. Others include Miami-based JourneyTrack, a customer-mapping developer, and Keyno in St. Augustine, that has fraud-prevention solutions for the fintech industry.</p><p>For a closer look at PS27 Ventures, visit the company's <a href="https://ps27ventures.com" target="_blank">website</a> or connect on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/ps27-ventures/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ps27.ventures/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@ps27ventures" target="_blank">TikTok</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/ps27ventures">X</a>. </p><p> </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-45350788112536076212024-03-12T11:35:00.001-04:002024-03-12T11:35:00.132-04:00A photo backdrop for small items<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nV4yfBke-xQa_T38OTfVhAG4phTYpm0Xpgd_48QGDrM_G5W-JrcPfUDJkREiPIQxDXWW-QDb0MICVqtG61fH8xlezqCi1oH7V-SzFdbR0CqtFXvTEsNL7v1LOOl0utG8SD86OmPdb56zY7mmtEveTFmik6NrnCHwl7cQHLE_XmztaYnIJIePseaqZ50/s1200/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1035" data-original-width="1200" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nV4yfBke-xQa_T38OTfVhAG4phTYpm0Xpgd_48QGDrM_G5W-JrcPfUDJkREiPIQxDXWW-QDb0MICVqtG61fH8xlezqCi1oH7V-SzFdbR0CqtFXvTEsNL7v1LOOl0utG8SD86OmPdb56zY7mmtEveTFmik6NrnCHwl7cQHLE_XmztaYnIJIePseaqZ50/w320-h191/1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Although this backdrop kit is promoted as something to capture food images, I thought it would be useful for the videos and still images that I create for many small products that I sell online. <p></p><p>The metal frame was fairly easy to assemble. There are five metal bars are attached to each other using a provided allen wrench for the uprights and thumb screws for horizontal bar. </p><p>The paper background sheets presented a bit more of a challenge. The sheets arrive wrapped tightly around a cardboard tube and sealed in plastic wrap. Once the wrap is removed, the sheets are not inclined to flatten without help. </p><p>I tried putting a sheet color-side down and pulling it across a table's edge. Not a good idea. The sheets are very thick and the table edge left some scratches. A better approach is to re-roll a single sheet around the cardboard tube, then let leave it on a flat surface while it attempts to flatten itself. </p><p>I appreciate the deep and rich colors of the sheets and the variety of colors. They really add some visual pop to product photos. And I like the fact that the frame and sheets can be easily transported to shoot items on location.</p><p>I only wish the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CFZW83BC?th=1" target="_blank">LDMJNL frame</a> was a few inches wider. The backdrop worked fine for a small object, like a pair of earbuds, but I couldn't find an angle that let me capture a decorative bowl without running out of backdrop at the edges.</p><p>Nevertheless, I expect I will get a lot of use out of this </p><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-39108445394815805392024-03-08T11:33:00.000-05:002024-03-08T11:33:00.691-05:00Another cable disappointment<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUevg6h25pCVJtfUiwQZ2kekWsEnZ_rzv6Lv4KjC1uPO-horQFn01T72LV86LQ2WE1eeWACOwZmXeQJWOO8zuUC50vyu9o8eEOlLFxQ8p0ydnYrmAq78oe5axg98FndG778xT_AMxcHi3Sc9C1k_koaNQR4Mo14ZFvFdJLnLKeGAvqbeD5cmELGWPljA/s3496/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2366" data-original-width="3496" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUevg6h25pCVJtfUiwQZ2kekWsEnZ_rzv6Lv4KjC1uPO-horQFn01T72LV86LQ2WE1eeWACOwZmXeQJWOO8zuUC50vyu9o8eEOlLFxQ8p0ydnYrmAq78oe5axg98FndG778xT_AMxcHi3Sc9C1k_koaNQR4Mo14ZFvFdJLnLKeGAvqbeD5cmELGWPljA/s320/1.png" width="320" /></a></div>I've tried several of these three-headed charging cables, all with mixed results. One didn't have enough power to charge my iPad while another was only about two feet long, meaning I often had to charge my gear on the floor to be close to a wall outlet.<p></p><p>I had high hopes for his one. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRYP8KVG?th=1" target="_blank">OXO cable</a> is about six feet long, so I would be able to use it almost anywhere. And this package included a power block with three outlets, one USB-A and two USB-C, one rated for 20 watts, the other for 65 watts. </p><p>This seemed perfect for my gear: an iPhone 15, an Apple Watch and either my full-sized iPad or my iPad Mini. What could go wrong? I soon found out.</p><p>This OXO cable is apparently not suited to charge all three devices at the same time. I could charge phone and watch or tablet and watch. But if I had phone and tablet connected atthe same time, the tablet's charging icon turned white and displayed the dreaded "Not Charging" message.</p><p>The result was the same whether I used the 20- or 65-watt connections, same for different wall outlets and same for both the big iPad or the Mini. </p><p>Once again, my heart is broken but I suppose it's my fault for assuming that OXO's Lightning plug would charge my tablets. A closer read of the description on the OXO sales page describes "one charger compatible with iPhone, Watch, and AirPods." Nowhere does it mention iPads.</p><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-36600600650680632842024-02-28T11:41:00.007-05:002024-03-09T18:47:26.491-05:00A multi-function camping lantern<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZV6uwrEXI-c_ZAAy6b7GTxdzdkaA2YUu2ZFYT2oSxbppJu0z0AkE_s3g9f1iSGZd3v20zZ6rPymPlqUjKa6ouhdCIO87NfY-fXJ_chVx5isV3_nLT9l-Rke5nRfVKob4KdMHWVsgP611yrqhEVmPIKOKo9LvJq-7YlIHXtYoPFDA6YM5-Qr7LgQiT2KM/s4032/IMG_0082.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoqYfKFHJUbU417wEJPVuTVIpRyh1dgLSQO89IA_waP9aLTymVca59Baodv0_B0-HR7FcbWey3bXOrcMvBBLcUXzK-AhxzaiEhrkomRIqQfbWwR86t3kdvhyphenhyphenLyxV20vutcm8UQzxLshxdtUm0YcPu-H0JDTZWJsbU1GRh4Vgy9y8O5Rl66QMrtuET7P8/s3386/porch2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="3386" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoqYfKFHJUbU417wEJPVuTVIpRyh1dgLSQO89IA_waP9aLTymVca59Baodv0_B0-HR7FcbWey3bXOrcMvBBLcUXzK-AhxzaiEhrkomRIqQfbWwR86t3kdvhyphenhyphenLyxV20vutcm8UQzxLshxdtUm0YcPu-H0JDTZWJsbU1GRh4Vgy9y8O5Rl66QMrtuET7P8/s320/porch2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>This LED camping lantern is sort of a Swiss Army knife for outdoor illumination. It tries to do several different jobs and generally succeeds on all counts. <p></p><p>It can be straight-ahead flashlight with a button that cycles through three lighting levels. Long press the button and you get a red flashing emergency light. For wider illumination, there's a second button that also provides three light levels. You can set the light on a flat surface or hang it overhead using a loop that pops out of top of the lamp. </p><p>That top cylinder also rotates to reveal a reading lamp, again with three brightness options. And it can charge a mobile phone or other device by plugging in a USB cable. </p><p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR9ZHBCX" target="_blank">camping lantern</a> itself has its own battery that can be recharged with a USB-C cable and you can install AAA batteries to power the flashlight/reading lamp as a back-up to the internal 4000mAh battery. That's the kind of versatility that I would want for an emergency light in my car, at home during a power failure or for any sort of expedition into the woods after dark.</p><p>There are only a couple of things that bother me about this light. One is the handle that users attach by installing a pair of thin wire loops. I would prefer a solid handle built into the lamp's housing. Also, the rotating reading light doesn't make a very secure connection to the top of the lantern housing. It feels like it could easily break, especially if a user twists it in the wrong direction. The lamp has a warning sticker that tells you not to do that, but this product is made to be used in the dark where it's not easy to read.</p><p><br /></p><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-74569523623266779162024-02-15T07:32:00.003-05:002024-02-15T07:32:47.642-05:00An 8-port GaN II charger<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2V8-p47Kganiinaojhcr_RQmhsTgm7TsUN4oa-ALjjsD4psIAt5k3sY8GYwjd4uef4tCeIFX3lVfO8sN7JJNaa_Em0fNXPPGD_ms4st3Sd6eh_jgCzyQm1R5I4ZOU3q9dbf9_3gZAloPDD4a4CsgQodrtbSzps8NXDRit4Iv79eXckR4LtmVQi9FUPA/s2170/main.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1288" data-original-width="2170" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2V8-p47Kganiinaojhcr_RQmhsTgm7TsUN4oa-ALjjsD4psIAt5k3sY8GYwjd4uef4tCeIFX3lVfO8sN7JJNaa_Em0fNXPPGD_ms4st3Sd6eh_jgCzyQm1R5I4ZOU3q9dbf9_3gZAloPDD4a4CsgQodrtbSzps8NXDRit4Iv79eXckR4LtmVQi9FUPA/s320/main.png" width="320" /></a></div>There's a lot to like about this charging base. Like most other newer (and more expensive) chargers, it uses gallium nitride rather than silicon. That means it can deliver a more powerful charge to multiple devices and do the job much faster.<p></p><p>The charger has eight ports, four with the standard USB-A connections and four for USB-C. It can refuel more devices simultaneously than any other charging stations that I've encountered.</p><p>The charger has one port rated at 65 watts, a typical rating for charging devices designed for computers. Power ratings for the other ports range from 15 to 30 watts. Using the high-powered USB-C port, I recharged my MacBook Air from doornail dead to 100 percent in 100 minutes while also charging my iPhone 15.</p><p>And I really like being able to charge all my devices - Airpods, iPads, Bluetooth speakers and other gadgets - all from the same power source and without paying a premium price. </p><p>And hey, the green color is pretty nice as well. Check it out <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQYHGKL4" target="_blank">on Amazon</a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx_DLeFztoEl2cgxLfZboaEqi1Kg1UE3LXA15s0waXAwzp2iZrgsfUBOfDJgdaa20Cz2jWOwFXG1uorgqQ78g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-11614429303608701752024-01-29T13:35:00.013-05:002024-01-29T13:35:00.273-05:00Cable offers 3-in-1 convenience<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNqHOI8vyqFYrVchL-Z3scr-fZ0TYNT7oGc1wsJ9NMrRrklyS4HOpviz73zLR9Mi6U3jFxfxlp3u4YZNK5qm9TqGlKpJ2rr0BONHmeYEluzKrlBJJo32XjMh06ygyuvWWGSOyVYZhk8c8Go4ofHJOkbq5FD3QQBK5BMjiqOEg585BPYDEcwh0NKBZURY/s2302/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1312" data-original-width="2302" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNqHOI8vyqFYrVchL-Z3scr-fZ0TYNT7oGc1wsJ9NMrRrklyS4HOpviz73zLR9Mi6U3jFxfxlp3u4YZNK5qm9TqGlKpJ2rr0BONHmeYEluzKrlBJJo32XjMh06ygyuvWWGSOyVYZhk8c8Go4ofHJOkbq5FD3QQBK5BMjiqOEg585BPYDEcwh0NKBZURY/s320/1.png" width="320" /></a></div>I've tried a couple of these multi-headed charging cables in the past and none of them performed very well. The typical issue is they don't have enough capacity to charge three devices at once. <p></p><p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKWV9RGC" target="_blank">Cugunu charging cable</a> seems to be capable of doing the job. It three connectors with tips for USB-C and Lightning plus a disc to charge the Apple Watch. That's what I needed for my iPhone 15, my iPad and watch. All three lit up and promptly began refueling.</p><p>The business end of the cable offers a nice touch of convenience. The full-sized USB-A slides up to reveal a USB-C plug so it can be used with either an A or C outlet.</p><p>The center part of the cable is coiled like those old-time wall phone cables and I'm not sure why that was done. In its coiled state, the cable is too short to connect to an AC outlet that's more than two feet away - like one at floor level, the most common location. Stretch the cable out to three feet and it will try to collapse like a spring, pulling your gadgets along with it. </p><p>Whatever the idea was behind the coil, this cable does what I wanted it to do: eliminate the need to pack several cables and charging blocks in my travel bag. </p><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-80978924308594602582024-01-10T20:02:00.006-05:002024-01-10T20:02:46.390-05:00Snap-on adapter brings Bluetooth to Bose QC3<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFGxIx36sRY4wEbEbqU-hnVECebvHmlQ1eXDMUb7OaJRWVjMJXqa1QEjNS1fIFYCe40coOEIj5iSGpVKcQauhvTcEaZRXO3frm4UIuuS8iWFuzCw9sRPTW4fwJZKG_FDAELtdJsvzJQw2uk45_PU6l1UWlxgfmmBMx_H6o6VObdvxo3SsAJN9GpJNEr8/s1200/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="1200" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFGxIx36sRY4wEbEbqU-hnVECebvHmlQ1eXDMUb7OaJRWVjMJXqa1QEjNS1fIFYCe40coOEIj5iSGpVKcQauhvTcEaZRXO3frm4UIuuS8iWFuzCw9sRPTW4fwJZKG_FDAELtdJsvzJQw2uk45_PU6l1UWlxgfmmBMx_H6o6VObdvxo3SsAJN9GpJNEr8/s320/1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Bose set the standard for noise-reducing headphones in 1989 when it developed created a noise-cancelling headset for pilots. By 2006, Bose was selling a $349 consumer version that was widely regarded as the best noise-killing headphone available. </div><div><br /></div><div>That was the year that I got the Bose QuietComfort 3 and I've given those phones plenty of use ever since. They travel with me every time I fly and I often use them when I mow my lawn. They get so much use that the leather-like surface of the ear pads has completely worn away.</div><div><br /></div><div>I own Apple's AirPods Pro, which also promises to filter out ambient noise, but the 18-year-old Bose still does a better job. I would use them more often except for that pesky cable that's required to connect to mobile phone or other audio source. </div><div><br /></div><div>This <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKXCTPF9" target="_blank">Bluetooth adapter from Yocowoco</a> is bringing new life to my old favorite. The adapter plugs into the cable port on the left ear pad and makes a tight grip onto the frame around the pad's indented listening port. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFB8bS8K3_27ai_voKzNhapJ9MTG-MhUaqP2NC4jIJFbawe2yzdg1GqPKdjw4YRtRzOlDeaLrF_l11kNdfvcaqpvv6q_NYCtHgF1W3sCLTDXSGcET_YDxulOYQT6l0-YiDzVk6fvAviinLv6DshTYESCFNAx96MIsRMX6_4WAzBbW5WrqsqscfIWEy6s/s1048/2%20copy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1048" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFB8bS8K3_27ai_voKzNhapJ9MTG-MhUaqP2NC4jIJFbawe2yzdg1GqPKdjw4YRtRzOlDeaLrF_l11kNdfvcaqpvv6q_NYCtHgF1W3sCLTDXSGcET_YDxulOYQT6l0-YiDzVk6fvAviinLv6DshTYESCFNAx96MIsRMX6_4WAzBbW5WrqsqscfIWEy6s/s320/2%20copy.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>The device has a trio of buttons to turn the gadget on or off, play or pause incoming audio and raise or lower sound volume. The buttons are super small and not easy to use, but they're available if you need them. It also has a built-in battery can be recharged with a USB-C cable without removing the adapter from the ear pad. </div><div><br /></div><div>I had no trouble pairing the device with my iPhone and I thought the quality of the sound it delivered was very good, comparable to what I got using the Bose cable. And even if I have to give up a little fidelity to have Bose-quality sound and noise cancellation, that's okay with me.</div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-17160616314954934312024-01-02T12:23:00.001-05:002024-01-02T12:23:00.138-05:00Mini power bank has a spot for Apple Watch<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBh4dGpRdp-tBL5lccJSWyAED_3iwwmj9dX3IQD2ulvXxlEe5IHn16a1g7js_-XkR3iU4zzK2lVe2kuTGTjjQxQxfzPro8ezH29qcDyYpH79tIJV-vtJwqnIRsTJM6qmoSfu-y733sxWB5OU2dbNAFIRVuGQzbyrn1I-YudFBw8G80-01TAvJTYRR1XrU/s1500/3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBh4dGpRdp-tBL5lccJSWyAED_3iwwmj9dX3IQD2ulvXxlEe5IHn16a1g7js_-XkR3iU4zzK2lVe2kuTGTjjQxQxfzPro8ezH29qcDyYpH79tIJV-vtJwqnIRsTJM6qmoSfu-y733sxWB5OU2dbNAFIRVuGQzbyrn1I-YudFBw8G80-01TAvJTYRR1XrU/s320/3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Over the years I've collected several charging cables and devices that were designed for travel convenience. Most of them served me well enough, but that was before I acquired an iPhone 15 with its new USB-C charging port. <p></p><p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMQ6JW7Q" target="_blank">RORRY Mini Portable Charger</a> looked like a good option to replace my chargers and their Lightning connection. In addition to its pop-out USB-C plug, this charger has two features that caught my attention. </p><p>First, it doubles as power bank. It has a 5000mAh 15-watt battery pack that can refuel my phone without having to connect to an AC outlet. That feature was quite handy when I stayed for a couple of nights in a room where outlets were either already taken or well hidden.</p><p>Second, it will recharge my Apple Watch at the same time it charges my phone. The charger is advertised to deliver one full charge to an iPhone 8 times to a watch. My phone wasn't fully drained, so I got two overnight charges for both phone and watch.</p><p>That was enough for the RORRY charger to earn a permanent spot in my travel backpack.</p><p><br /></p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-31556303820901539232023-12-27T15:39:00.003-05:002023-12-27T15:39:00.136-05:00Good watchbands, great price<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqf3_cFUqHpOGwjf-ZlrHcB__JzVy7prVUzZg0IvCT6AQeRXQUlWFkvNyn1is3R0WGnlhCAMNPqvOKNqbw1f5w95w9I7uP9ROx6n1ZFKGBOzyaP1qjyYTmDgY8K_exopqz8KX_tzcGgExomiz3SDyBsnYW4Op-He2BLvNgJRPfYRX2cfeCTaz696j3fXk/s1200/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqf3_cFUqHpOGwjf-ZlrHcB__JzVy7prVUzZg0IvCT6AQeRXQUlWFkvNyn1is3R0WGnlhCAMNPqvOKNqbw1f5w95w9I7uP9ROx6n1ZFKGBOzyaP1qjyYTmDgY8K_exopqz8KX_tzcGgExomiz3SDyBsnYW4Op-He2BLvNgJRPfYRX2cfeCTaz696j3fXk/s320/1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>If imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery, then the people who made these bands are clearly making goo-goo eyes at Apple. <p></p><p>The bands in this five-pack look almost exactly like two of Apple newest styles. Three of them feature a G-hook and nylon loops, just like Apple's Alpine bands. </p><p>Two others have what Apple calls a Trail Loop. It has a fabric pull-tab that lets you adjust the elastic band to grip exactly where you want it to be.</p><p>The differences are in the details. The stitching on the knock-off bands isn't as smooth and clean as the Apple bands. And, to my eye, the Apple bands have more attractive colors. </p><p>But here's the biggest difference: Apple wants $99 for each of its bands while this five-pack of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM95JDNT?th=1&psc=1" target="_blank">Aupcdbe watchbands</a> sells for less than $20. I'm a pretty frugal guy, so the price makes it a no-brainer for me.<br /></p><p>And I'm pretty happy with what I got. I'm wearing one of the pull-tab versions and it's been very comfortable. I found the loops on the Alpine bands to be a little stiff and I had to fumble a bit to get the hook into the loop. The Trail band was just less bother and a more solid fit. </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-52244338352640573652023-12-20T07:11:00.002-05:002023-12-20T07:11:00.132-05:00Dual wireless mics offer easy setup and crisp audio<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hR7FvOIh4dC-ezulbL4yu_wMM0-4wCHR8THhGk2ar5UY6yaKTQWY2FHOP8cSZgCIYS6ovAUEw99u3gGdPWS9RE0QA5UGLMeHUF0hWyJ0WxN-CtH_8WyGp6nZjldSxM55MFlMunV04wqTdi0TEwOL8Lp7SMFsc0NZ-oD6UrvdRpb-C8GsB9xXYhdvNx4/s3143/2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2206" data-original-width="3143" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hR7FvOIh4dC-ezulbL4yu_wMM0-4wCHR8THhGk2ar5UY6yaKTQWY2FHOP8cSZgCIYS6ovAUEw99u3gGdPWS9RE0QA5UGLMeHUF0hWyJ0WxN-CtH_8WyGp6nZjldSxM55MFlMunV04wqTdi0TEwOL8Lp7SMFsc0NZ-oD6UrvdRpb-C8GsB9xXYhdvNx4/s320/2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>I've made dozens of video interviews using my iPhone and I'm always looking for ways to improve their sound quality. My work took a big step up after I started using a lavalier microphone.<p></p><p>I've used four set-ups over the past few years and this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3VCD2B9" target="_blank">Zahyeo wireless kit </a>has been by far the best. My first wireless kit required a transmitter dongle that I had to be hidden under my subject's clothing. This one has the transmitter built into the clip-on mic - no wires needed. The earlier kit also had only had one mic while this one has two. Now I can interview two people or capture my questions with the same clarity as the subject's answers. </p><p>While both microphone-transmitters have to be charged, I can now do that with a single cable while the mics are resting in their storage case. The mics were super easy to pair with my iPhone, with minimal signal lights and button presses, and the resulting audio quality was superior to anything I had captured with previous mics.</p><p>My only complaint involves the receiver. It has a USB-C plug to connect to the recording device. That's great if you're using an Android phone but a real annoyance if you have an iPhone. Zahyeo thoughtfully provided a tiny USB-C-to-Lightning adapter which worked perfectly for my recordings. But the company would have been even more thoughtful if it had made room in the charging case to stash the adapter. </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-76602710273603802422023-11-30T06:52:00.000-05:002023-12-13T07:00:54.361-05:00Travel charger refuels everything<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNS2RUGJyRNy3xyq-u3HLameEH5oHclafbdyzrZPB4M4TyJImOjSb7w9glFCGpQ69tVR_D_bnvWWXx9vsovys2NqiifkQn5KBdhWmgap73imFm03GvEujSm8RRkMSY_Qh5CT2HRlltCTnkxX39TVa61lZXiG0vfmAukcE2xg7XW1QOLyNGGMFEIbpzlXg/s1200/IMG_9088.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1200" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNS2RUGJyRNy3xyq-u3HLameEH5oHclafbdyzrZPB4M4TyJImOjSb7w9glFCGpQ69tVR_D_bnvWWXx9vsovys2NqiifkQn5KBdhWmgap73imFm03GvEujSm8RRkMSY_Qh5CT2HRlltCTnkxX39TVa61lZXiG0vfmAukcE2xg7XW1QOLyNGGMFEIbpzlXg/s320/IMG_9088.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>I’ve been caught too many time being away from home with a charger that would power up my iPhone but balked at refueling my Macbook or iPad. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHDX4PNR" target="_blank">GONEO charger</a> is going to be the solution to that problem. <p></p><p>First, it has enough power ports to charge all of my travel devices: computer, phone, tablet, Airpods and Bluetooth speaker. The charger has three USB-C ports plus two for USB-A cables. </p><p>Using a single USB-C outlet, the charger delivers up to 87 watts of power, which great for larger devices like a computer. That drops to 45 watts when you're using multiple outlets - sufficient for power a laptop, just not as fast.</p><p>The second thing I like about this charger is its five-foot AC cord. That's long enough to find the ever-elusive wall outlet in hotel rooms or guest bedrooms. And it's more convenient and dependable than some of the multi-chargers I've used that have pop-out prongs. They ofter won't stay in the outlet and one was rendered useless because the prong broke.</p><p>Traveling with one GONEO charger is far better that hauling a bag full of cables and power blocks. </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-32528450734190370572023-11-15T20:30:00.000-05:002023-12-13T07:00:28.880-05:00A pro-level rig for phone videography<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTXoKSCNXNVPVJ3tsOMpb7hnWIVCAbSynepCeMLcNTyFVKggd4Dm6mTr8W5pvcD6Gg1HNEFVOMzo9vFRkD4ev2bvTxhyH_OfCk1yKVZM0xGq4SyPtrCeJ98G8lX9AW3VRkhfx5oUMSZvu6Oaam7HIj3SyQDxJs1MhUdESsULcMqCNOPsv6MAmhxdK/s1894/Screenshot%202023-05-21%20at%201.04.18%20PM.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1114" data-original-width="1894" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTXoKSCNXNVPVJ3tsOMpb7hnWIVCAbSynepCeMLcNTyFVKggd4Dm6mTr8W5pvcD6Gg1HNEFVOMzo9vFRkD4ev2bvTxhyH_OfCk1yKVZM0xGq4SyPtrCeJ98G8lX9AW3VRkhfx5oUMSZvu6Oaam7HIj3SyQDxJs1MhUdESsULcMqCNOPsv6MAmhxdK/s320/Screenshot%202023-05-21%20at%201.04.18%20PM.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">A few years ago, I ordered an inexpensive cage-style </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">phone video rig after my iPhone slipped out of my hand several times during a video shoot. The rectangular holder provided side grips that put an end to the dropsies and I expanded it using velcro strips and twisty wires to add a charging block, a light box and a microphone. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">It was an ugly kludge, but it worked.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">I would have much preferred this </span>this <span style="caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BTYDLRYX" target="_blank">ULANZI Universal Phone Video Rig Kit</a> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">if it had been available back then. It's made of aluminum with threaded holes for standard attachments like lights and mics plus a second set of jaws to hold a USB charger. No velcro or rubber bands required. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">And just about everything on this rig is adjustable. There are 12 threaded holes and four cold shoe slots on all four sides of the center cage, giving you a variety of location options to mount multiple gadgets above below the cage with more holes and shoes on the handles. You can build your own custom rig with the phone mounted for horizontal or vertical shooting. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">While the handles let you chase the action, a fully-loaded rig will weigh almost 3 lbs. That's enough to wear out both arms and put one-handed use out of reach for most people. I think it's a better fit for use with a tripod where it could hold larger light bars and a heavier mic. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">My other concern is the clip for the charging block. I have several chargers and only one will work with this rig. The others are too small or too wide. But that's a minor gripe and one that won't stop me from consistently using what is clearly a professional-level cage.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRFSS6WelaEty_JbquuOsJ85jTqiazqn9NzvXPSFvetY9jk0M7VzD6e48ijlDcMDHmJHVdJS9AtCWUg9xudgyzW3CfvFhNRmBcZZdkbp0DHOPP80BmO7f6H52u0YN7ThU3l2SoCbc1yUiXeOtkMSqKocPqaltkDe5pbNFBMrK7owcPjmNNhyHHK3k/s1924/Screenshot%202023-05-21%20at%201.05.17%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1924" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRFSS6WelaEty_JbquuOsJ85jTqiazqn9NzvXPSFvetY9jk0M7VzD6e48ijlDcMDHmJHVdJS9AtCWUg9xudgyzW3CfvFhNRmBcZZdkbp0DHOPP80BmO7f6H52u0YN7ThU3l2SoCbc1yUiXeOtkMSqKocPqaltkDe5pbNFBMrK7owcPjmNNhyHHK3k/w400-h229/Screenshot%202023-05-21%20at%201.05.17%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-68066345797998488132023-10-25T06:58:00.000-04:002023-12-13T07:01:22.630-05:00Portable charger tries to do too much<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuytcz61Fg4T85vokl1xOhnSPqeg4YW3JyR4k9AGWUuHByuvEp7SA_XS9S4Zui3sI-ooVbBg1OyV4hBXJZmBlCWB6tVywhIANNQ-nkIa8IyJP9UWF9wJEIkdnp8cwZu2HOqvHdknW0cvBhnyivdUNemrV3HN2OLhPdEB_8-JPnHm_lzhtzHkGgNItWMw0/s1490/charger.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1274" data-original-width="1490" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuytcz61Fg4T85vokl1xOhnSPqeg4YW3JyR4k9AGWUuHByuvEp7SA_XS9S4Zui3sI-ooVbBg1OyV4hBXJZmBlCWB6tVywhIANNQ-nkIa8IyJP9UWF9wJEIkdnp8cwZu2HOqvHdknW0cvBhnyivdUNemrV3HN2OLhPdEB_8-JPnHm_lzhtzHkGgNItWMw0/s320/charger.png" width="320" /></a></div>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CF9BZ8XG?th=1" target="_blank">Dexinly charger</a> tries to be all things to all devices. Perhaps it's trying to do too much.<p></p><p>The first thing I noticed when I plugged it in was how heavy it was. Its weight began to pull the AC prongs away from the wall outlet. And when I finally found an outlet that would hold it, I couldn't find a way to charge my gear while it was plugged it.</p><p>There's a wireless pad on both sides of the charger, one for a phone and one for an Apple Watch. But they can only be used when the charger is in power bank mode - in other words, when it's not connected to AC power. And unless I put my phone face down, I couldn't use both pads at the sale time. </p><p>The charger has two built in cables, one for Lightning and one for USB-C, but again, they are useful only when it's in portable mode. I was disappointed that I couldn't use the charger to refuel all my devices - phone, watch and ear buds - when the block it plugged into an AC outlet. </p><p>Some folks might find this multifunction charger to be just what they need but it's just too heavy and complicated for me.</p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-49028962724463075652023-10-09T07:02:00.001-04:002023-12-13T07:04:36.064-05:00Streamer gadget promises too much<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7v8vX2JhamIOFFhCWq6kuKqFjJWljED1jsjbeGQmgGVqN83xa9A2URU833_E21wKlhq07RSazq4xe2D2ivRVd8b_THcVUO5c2UZc0nh28Nt-v9YGOOwGe7YsTa0aIkz3N43-5gfQA0MQEkrMRCFuO0l-z7LVSZ_NrmS91Zw3BgvywJuG9s44PsGnGdc/s1200/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7v8vX2JhamIOFFhCWq6kuKqFjJWljED1jsjbeGQmgGVqN83xa9A2URU833_E21wKlhq07RSazq4xe2D2ivRVd8b_THcVUO5c2UZc0nh28Nt-v9YGOOwGe7YsTa0aIkz3N43-5gfQA0MQEkrMRCFuO0l-z7LVSZ_NrmS91Zw3BgvywJuG9s44PsGnGdc/s320/1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>This is a swell idea: an easily portable device that would let you screen share from and to a variety of devices. Could be an Apple iPhone, an Android phone or a device running Windows. And the destination could be any display that has an HDMI input - a TV, a monitor or a projector. <p></p><p>Sadly the ARPENOY Wireless HDMI Display Adapter did not live up to that expectation. </p><p>For my tests I used my 32-inch Insignia TV. Setup using iPhone 14 went smoothly. I plugged the provided HDMI cable into an open port on the TV, and connected ARPENOY's power cable to a USB port on the TV. When I launched Screen Mirroring on the iPhone, RENKCHIP appeared with my Apple TV and Roku streamers. I clicked to connect and my phone screen instantly appeared on the TV. I displayed websites, photos and videos with no problems. </p><p>Then I tried connecting an Android phone. It was a no-go with my daughter's Google 7 Pro. No streaming options were available. Then my son tried to connect with his Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra phone. He found RENKCHIP and made a connection. At first the device would only show his phone screen flipped on its side - a narrow vertical screen displayed horizontally. After a few tweaks, he got a wide-screen image.</p><p>We got streaming video to display but not in a manner that you would want to watch. There was too much stuttering and buffering, as if the ARPENOY was struggling to maintain the connection. </p><p>So maybe this is the portable screen-sharing device that Apple owners can use until Apple makes a better one. But I wouldn't recommend it for Android lovers.</p><p><br /> </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-25764306770321452652023-09-18T07:06:00.001-04:002023-12-13T07:10:40.749-05:00Bone phones fall short<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOqap25dTiERkHYz9V_0zLiHfzUwEdsSrgo3HTKjWk-6SfpdDu4S8-Cyfe-BJZB9mBWQcKTNTOaoFhwaRfvEEU8FoQoEf-_HOfnw6sN-Op8F2l-h4H-G1kAQ8io9I9QHVgm-NvIixrLd4MTDxjsWzYO4fiflXJ59loB0eVuAuisVX1lhZZFRVgDaBwRM/s4032/IMG_7804.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOqap25dTiERkHYz9V_0zLiHfzUwEdsSrgo3HTKjWk-6SfpdDu4S8-Cyfe-BJZB9mBWQcKTNTOaoFhwaRfvEEU8FoQoEf-_HOfnw6sN-Op8F2l-h4H-G1kAQ8io9I9QHVgm-NvIixrLd4MTDxjsWzYO4fiflXJ59loB0eVuAuisVX1lhZZFRVgDaBwRM/s320/IMG_7804.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>I like bone conduction headphones. For activities like cycling, they're a good alternative to earbuds, which could too easily fall out of your ears. <p></p><p>And I might have liked these headphones if I had gotten them to work. When the headphones power up, they are automatically in MP3 mode playing music from some internal storage. </p><p>In search of pairing mode, I consulted tiny instruction sheet that comes with the device. The text is so small that I had to get out a magnifying glass to read it. </p><p>Here's what I found: "After power on and enter pairing status. the LED display Bluetooth flashes, cell phone, desktop computer, and laptop devices search for X10/(Bluetooth), manually click connect. The laptop de vice searches for X10/(Bluetooth) and manually clicks to connect."</p><p>Clear as mud, right? I tried multiple times and the headphones occasionally flashed "Bluetooth" but did not pair with my iPhone. </p><p>The itty-bitty instructions also makes reference to a TF card function, but doesn't explain what TF means. Nor does it explain how to find the MP3 library and add new files or, better yet, disable the the function altogether. So, unless I fall in love completely with the internal music files, I won't be wearing the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3Q4H8S5" target="_blank">Ortizan bone conduction headphones</a> on my next bike ride. </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-16959192180015685492023-07-29T18:39:00.003-04:002023-12-13T06:59:28.551-05:00Adapter turns USB-C into Lightning<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JBTbx0R2c9oph74G5w8No-8mAAK00rYSDsgR6UYt99ugu9L9Df7V0hHcd74oqBoFPU5Fxm9X5mIX1dKPRcWx7LubjGsAunum15qmdI9Tf4HOA2LI_SJs2I7R9zf-_D5kDFCWRnLUbuEP_cxPtxn8Et7tK5sQbnlhGwjPeDRXhEAIRdSz1T-j0Vo6_6Y/s4032/IMG_8409.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JBTbx0R2c9oph74G5w8No-8mAAK00rYSDsgR6UYt99ugu9L9Df7V0hHcd74oqBoFPU5Fxm9X5mIX1dKPRcWx7LubjGsAunum15qmdI9Tf4HOA2LI_SJs2I7R9zf-_D5kDFCWRnLUbuEP_cxPtxn8Et7tK5sQbnlhGwjPeDRXhEAIRdSz1T-j0Vo6_6Y/s320/IMG_8409.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>It’s clear that the USB-C standard is taking over the world. Everything from charging blocks to rechargeable flashlights seem to need a USB-C cable. And there’s a very good chance that the next iPhone will have a USB-C socket.<p></p><p>So now that I’ve stocked up with a bunch of new USB-C cables, I find myself rummaging around for a cable with Lightning plug. I got this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C8TFMFMR?th=1" target="_blank">TechMatte adapter</a> because it looked like a good way to bridge the gap between Lightning and USB-C.</p><p>This device is a is a one-inch-long adapter with a Lightning plug at one end and female USB-C port on the other. Attach it to a cable with a male C plug and now you have a cable for all this i devices: iPhone, iPad, AirPods and so on.</p><p>The one problem I’ve had in the past with adapters like this one is they are so small they are easy to lose. TechMatte solves that problem by providing a silicon holder that attaches to a cable. This makes the adapter even more useful. Although the adapter can be purchased in a 3-pack, you only get two of the silicon holders. I have no idea why.</p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-61074871191354817492023-06-22T08:09:00.020-04:002023-12-13T06:59:53.174-05:00A charger for MagSafe phones<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4McLzJkFmwR0QBkt80ARezxBY8r0A3OoHto_diS0CNQO1nyDPl08wgKHk9m1BpYfuYfjT25-BQlEWh5Ddsp9RW2-cdXp9h7GbuRv7PklXnN_vDsn-60qHu2brEFE6IuTyIFug-9JT65Uz1CHvAt8vqQbMpxBsLAYw0LHkKP_ntVMJgVTw-9gWH_smjI/s4032/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4McLzJkFmwR0QBkt80ARezxBY8r0A3OoHto_diS0CNQO1nyDPl08wgKHk9m1BpYfuYfjT25-BQlEWh5Ddsp9RW2-cdXp9h7GbuRv7PklXnN_vDsn-60qHu2brEFE6IuTyIFug-9JT65Uz1CHvAt8vqQbMpxBsLAYw0LHkKP_ntVMJgVTw-9gWH_smjI/s320/1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>When I travel, I always have a power bank, an iPhone cable and a strong rubber band in my backpack. Why a rubber band? I use it to attach the charger and cable to my phone to create one ugly but manageable brick. </div><div><br /></div><div>With the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3D5MK6B" target="_blank">AMEGAT magnetic charger</a>, I don’t need the rubber band or even the cable. The charger and the back of my phone come together to make a solid and snug connection and start the charging process. </div><div><br /></div><div>If your phone has a case, it will need to have an embedded MagSafe metal ring to make the connection.</div><div><br /></div><div>When my phone at at 12% power, the charger took it to 33% after 24 minutes and to 53% after one hour. Not especially speedy, but I’d call it satisfactory. The charger is listed charge at 30 watts with 10000mAh capacity. That’s less than the 20000mAh capacity that is common for many other portable chargers but strong enough to give an iPhone 14 almost 2 full charges. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzDez2qhWXrdDRsd8hkvk-sHFmAS_iosA-2fWw2vTIZfxtAN_Lgg6Bh56shPh3nvzpgSQiZIffVSqdr_a4dYWh-8wGQVngOOhWqBBnqhhDtWod1qpOuoa3BTN9TwBJTn-xDFUkjsGCobD-u9dYrWmBKLxNCoNRWer6q-rQgN3DpGCasyRyxIn7mVv7V8/s4032/2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzDez2qhWXrdDRsd8hkvk-sHFmAS_iosA-2fWw2vTIZfxtAN_Lgg6Bh56shPh3nvzpgSQiZIffVSqdr_a4dYWh-8wGQVngOOhWqBBnqhhDtWod1qpOuoa3BTN9TwBJTn-xDFUkjsGCobD-u9dYrWmBKLxNCoNRWer6q-rQgN3DpGCasyRyxIn7mVv7V8/s320/2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>The AMEGAT is a little too thick and heavy (7.5oz) to fit comfortably in a pocket when it’s paired with a phone, but it acquits itself nicely as a tabletop phone stand. An embedded finger pops out from the bottom of the case to prop up the phone in a vertical or horizontal position. </div><div><br /></div><div>The charger has a single USB-C plug that can be used to refuel its battery while it’s charging your phone. Or you can use it to simultaneously charge a second device like AirPods or Apple Watch. The cable that comes with the charger is USB C to USB C, so you’ll need a Lightning cable for other refuel Apple gear. </div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, the AMEGAT delivers on its primary goal: providing a wireless charge to an Apple phone. No pesky cables - or rubber bands - required.</div><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-22619747363382795142023-06-03T10:58:00.005-04:002024-01-06T08:13:30.792-05:00Starkou combines tripod and selfie stick<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismxhdTe01rf5ZdEUWez10uxTeSI0EV71aj4x9fXpjTTpBzNzh8LJ7N1HCb9Lclt5jsNzQVCLD7PhTeT0FEMI50gO6d2iCk8Z5EWzsIKgOuUetpdL58qmHUg0QdXFFjG4LTmuWK5drLTAQknpFiA9Ikk9qaLNQE0GAPHfW-IuaakNG5D9_Qnvi1ip8/s3284/IMG_7708.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1914" data-original-width="3284" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismxhdTe01rf5ZdEUWez10uxTeSI0EV71aj4x9fXpjTTpBzNzh8LJ7N1HCb9Lclt5jsNzQVCLD7PhTeT0FEMI50gO6d2iCk8Z5EWzsIKgOuUetpdL58qmHUg0QdXFFjG4LTmuWK5drLTAQknpFiA9Ikk9qaLNQE0GAPHfW-IuaakNG5D9_Qnvi1ip8/s320/IMG_7708.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I shoot video at an event, </span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">I take along two important items. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">One is an extendable selfie stick, to get my cell phone camera above a crowd. The other is a tripod to get a steady view of the action, often using a second camera. </span></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C22TFKPD" target="_blank">Starkou Tripod Selfie Stick</a> </span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">is a highly-portable device that can do either job well. And you get a wireless remote shutter trigger with the package.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">The Starkou stick is made to be carried in a backpack or shoulder bag. It's too big and heavy to put in a pocket on your jacket or jeans. When fully collapsed it weights a little under 1 pound in an 11.5-inch tube. But that heft is one of </span></span><span style="color: #0f1111;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">its</span></span><span style="color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"> advantages. I've used cheap selfie sticks that can't hold at full extension and flimsy tripods that easily fall over. This one stands firm.</span></span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">Using the Starkou required a bit of practice. To unlock the tripod legs, you first press button at the base of the tube. And it has to be pretty hard press to get the legs to slide down an interior tube and snap into place like an umbrella.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCb18AqEB-JB0H6SrLeaYXHXK2lYwhKyn4XqaSuJm8BLgDVwX-p0XMg6LTcPJJxxKt2GH6yQdN_5U4CVuxmvCZZDuJJ7_T3woqeGZD1Zta7u8h8LN5_9GoNaxKULiQTVEW4lFW-N2XYqIVZVGFJt9o4mTt5F07abCxi8o9rvTRZ01W0Y01nXOib5H/s2838/IMG_7704.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1937" data-original-width="2838" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCb18AqEB-JB0H6SrLeaYXHXK2lYwhKyn4XqaSuJm8BLgDVwX-p0XMg6LTcPJJxxKt2GH6yQdN_5U4CVuxmvCZZDuJJ7_T3woqeGZD1Zta7u8h8LN5_9GoNaxKULiQTVEW4lFW-N2XYqIVZVGFJt9o4mTt5F07abCxi8o9rvTRZ01W0Y01nXOib5H/s320/IMG_7704.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">The clamp that hold a phone is made of strong plastic with rubber cushions at each end of the clamp. It rotates between vertical and wide-screen positions and holds each position without lock nuts. And the outer caps of the clamp each have a cold shoe mount where you can attack a microphone or fill light.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">I was most impressed with the extension tubing that emerges in eight segments to a full 60 inches - almost to my chin. The segments are tucked snugly inside each other, so some muscle is required to get them out. But they stayed firm without any twisting or locking maneuver on my part.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">Attached to the outer shell of the Starkou is a thumb-sized Bluetooth remote. Once paired with my phone, I could take single photos or start and stop video recording without touching the phone. I snapped several shots of birds dining at my back porch feeder while I was inside the house peeking out a window.</span><p></p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-88252130399814517372023-04-13T22:37:00.002-04:002023-12-13T15:45:09.140-05:00Folding 3-in1 charger is a good traveller <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFuLh0qJ3YkK2_d5uqPsK9ZiwaH8qNJOQW2M2x2l2gbF-YDOaKbNeCerZPSHSAJ-9azdP5TAeFGyiiGxbxAgJ9eNGZDLy2SEG5-88B8n4KTQ0CIYv2Jw6fhhEk8a1Tl6XdLh09vLZZOaSuRpktFbU2c_zTjd81HX26WPiZnw73Pk0F5KxHb7Hyk7Vp/s1434/trio.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="1434" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFuLh0qJ3YkK2_d5uqPsK9ZiwaH8qNJOQW2M2x2l2gbF-YDOaKbNeCerZPSHSAJ-9azdP5TAeFGyiiGxbxAgJ9eNGZDLy2SEG5-88B8n4KTQ0CIYv2Jw6fhhEk8a1Tl6XdLh09vLZZOaSuRpktFbU2c_zTjd81HX26WPiZnw73Pk0F5KxHb7Hyk7Vp/s320/trio.png" width="320" /></a></div>When I travel, I take along my main Apple devices: an iPhone 14 Pro, AirPods 2 and an Apple Watch. And that usually meant taking along a tangle of charging cables and power plugs.<p></p><p>That changed when I got the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQW92PKG" target="_blank">Yellami charging platform</a>. It offers a far less complicated solution: a fold-out gadget that takes up a minimal amount of travel space while charging all three items from a single cable.</p><p>The travel charger had no trouble juicing iPhone in its Apple Magsafe case, boosting the phone from 70% to 98% in about 45 minutes. And it recharged all of my devices overnight. I might note that the phone platform gets warm to the tough while charging. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizaT-N9NKV2pp-UCIqzBrNvwO8owvsQKsz04QaPMgMHPQm8MT_Lmj9okg5SjMVUB5jbt6KNyL8p5TboFs_-poSS_dMYqrygbh26uargHKoOhFf7ZbnN32ukkVEvjxN2dwCit__A55T5wPoWdD9BdN51zUJF-OMwLv8ySr2fkoUDWJdr4Nga179pOpw/s1500/inhand.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="1500" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizaT-N9NKV2pp-UCIqzBrNvwO8owvsQKsz04QaPMgMHPQm8MT_Lmj9okg5SjMVUB5jbt6KNyL8p5TboFs_-poSS_dMYqrygbh26uargHKoOhFf7ZbnN32ukkVEvjxN2dwCit__A55T5wPoWdD9BdN51zUJF-OMwLv8ySr2fkoUDWJdr4Nga179pOpw/w200-h121/inhand.png" width="200" /></a></div><br />The design of the charging platform, with magnets in each segment tied together by rubber connectors, lets you fold the charge to accommodate one or two devices if you choose. The charger can be laid flat, with each segment in a row, or folded into a pyramid shape that could provide a better view of the phone face while it’s charging. But I couldn’t make that setup work. Either the phone is too heavy or the magnets are too weak to keep the triangle from collapsing. <p></p><p>But that's not important to me. I’m just glad that the charger does its job and that I have a better single cable option for travel charging. </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-16356639298482642992023-02-21T11:40:00.004-05:002023-12-13T15:45:27.622-05:00Momax GaN charger offers speed and power<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjukp-vcPHUfiJpN6aFtJXLNKKI78WMMiwa_aTWg9NhRsCfSUHXWyxCDXkSfIyLClyiiZVqs_3UrzEI8qcevYfbSHvNRQkyxcUbQNTT7k95jhXb6K4ma74NGfYTmLj7219VCeVahvF4R5M3QGSicf1gHFvmSh7IaWSCPlZqGNAHfOHXTDke9RqYUUs/s1886/momax.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1452" data-original-width="1886" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjukp-vcPHUfiJpN6aFtJXLNKKI78WMMiwa_aTWg9NhRsCfSUHXWyxCDXkSfIyLClyiiZVqs_3UrzEI8qcevYfbSHvNRQkyxcUbQNTT7k95jhXb6K4ma74NGfYTmLj7219VCeVahvF4R5M3QGSicf1gHFvmSh7IaWSCPlZqGNAHfOHXTDke9RqYUUs/s320/momax.png" width="320" /></a></div>By now I’ve learned that not all device chargers are created equal. Use the wrong base and my iPhone will sit for hours before it’s fully charged or my iPad won’t charge at all. The problem lies in the amount of power that is delivered through the charger, the little block that you plug into the wall or the strip of USB outlets. <p></p><p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNL3TQWD" target="_blank">Momax USB C Charging Station</a> promises to fix that by pumping up to 100 watts through a compact case with outlets for four cables. The charger is among a new group of charging units that use gallium nitride in place of the more common silicon. GaN chargers are faster and more powerful that ordinary chargers. And they’re able to refuel multiple devices, including Apple laptops.</p><p>Charging times for an iPhone 14 vary according to the power of the charging device: about 2 hours for a 30-watt charger, 3 hours for a 20-watt charger and 4 hours for the old 5-watt chargers that we all have around the house. </p><p>To see just how fast the Momax charger is, I drained the batteries in my iPhone 14 Pro and a 2019 iPad Air, then plugged both into the USB-C ports. After just 10 minutes, the phone had a 25% charge and the tablet was up to 14%. Forty-five minutes later, the phone had 82% power and the tablet 63%. Both were fully charged after about an hour and a half. </p><p>I like the performance of the Momax and I like its price: $49.99 on Amazon. Apple sells a GaN charger on its website that is configured just like the Momax - two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports - but its price is more than twice the cost of the Momax. </p><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-78697172832048520762023-01-04T15:56:00.002-05:002023-01-04T15:56:08.836-05:00A multi-charger-power bank combo<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jEnDjllUg-HYCyx1tZFoPAeVFTE8Xrh-FBLjxZrljpm0dYEduyEHDAuqcMIZjGD27bAHgwaMs6s0Z6FA_g9vIxiZo_oDiMi_TgoY9-uDm5X5O5w05TFPbXuNI9eOJ7lpVokt7cVoQSA_IkGBIbUV7vOe5RJjKIEo5mELERpbsKMBd5O0EkletXZU/s4032/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jEnDjllUg-HYCyx1tZFoPAeVFTE8Xrh-FBLjxZrljpm0dYEduyEHDAuqcMIZjGD27bAHgwaMs6s0Z6FA_g9vIxiZo_oDiMi_TgoY9-uDm5X5O5w05TFPbXuNI9eOJ7lpVokt7cVoQSA_IkGBIbUV7vOe5RJjKIEo5mELERpbsKMBd5O0EkletXZU/s320/2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I travel, all my Apple </span>gears comes<span style="font-family: inherit;"> with me, including an iPhone 14, Apple Watch, iPad and Airpods Pro. Now I have a device that will charge all of those gadgets at the same time, even when I'm not plugged into AC power.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's called the </span><a href="https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0BNKB4SQ4" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">VanSmaGo Magsafe Charging Station</a>.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> It's designed to be both an every day charging station for your desk or bedside table or a wireless battery pack when you're the road. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">The VanSmaGo charger has a pleasant and efficient design. The panel that contains the Magsafe charging ring can be used when it's fully horizontal or tilted up to display the phone's face and reveal the earpod charging spot underneath. A rotating arm behind the phone panel pops out to hold and charge an Apple Watch. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">And what about the iPad? You can charge it by plugging a cable into the USB outlet on the side of the charger. Just be sure you use an Apple-approved cable. A couple of cheap cables that I tried would charge my iPad Mini but not a full-sized iPad Air. In all, the VanSmaGo can charge five different devices at once, even if it's not connected to AC power.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">A display panel on the front of the charger lights up to show icons for each of the devices that are drawing power from the internal battery. It also displays a number that tell the pwecentage of available battery power. Using just the battery, the VanSmaGo took my iPhone from 86% to 99% in 40 minutes while drawing the battery down from a full charge to 55%. I think that's a pretty decent performance. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">The charger also has a USB-C port that's labelled IN/OUT. It takes incoming power as the front display ticks off the percentage of stored energy on its way to 100. As an output source, the C port charged my phone and iPad but not the tray that charges batteries for my action cam.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">My primary complaint about the charger is the precarious way that it holds my phone when the MagSafe panel is in its near vertical position. If the phone does not have a case, the MagSafe ring has enough magnetic pull to keep the phone in place. But with my Apple-brand MagSafe case, the phone has to rest on the lower lip of the ridge around the camera array. And while it will charge in that position, if the phone is slightly jostled, it breaks the connection. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nevertheless, I am impressed enough to make this charger my new go-to travel device.</span></p><div><br /></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-27648107308235914212022-12-05T21:00:00.003-05:002023-12-13T15:46:38.572-05:00The right cable for my second monitor<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkvpkxv7JnDO__J94JcbSZH6AXwuvgzyPhsXlzE4ks_oBUfeBAfy_vbD7_rWGKRk3N3PbKtm2G5Fi-nK4ZImaQgINHZJjzWaroQdZabNyvkCzJakShjN955nXUqPjbXcj-iOkuC7UJf03DyqF-76QnrxiiWltm8WKan-toV8FhWqez_n_pUpyFkMa/s1280/cable.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkvpkxv7JnDO__J94JcbSZH6AXwuvgzyPhsXlzE4ks_oBUfeBAfy_vbD7_rWGKRk3N3PbKtm2G5Fi-nK4ZImaQgINHZJjzWaroQdZabNyvkCzJakShjN955nXUqPjbXcj-iOkuC7UJf03DyqF-76QnrxiiWltm8WKan-toV8FhWqez_n_pUpyFkMa/s320/cable.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>I assumed one video cable would be just as good as another. That’s what I was thinking when I connected two monitors to my new M1 Mac Mini. <div><br /></div><div>I plugged my main monitor, a 32-inch curved Dell, into the Mini’s HDMI output and all was good. Then I connected a second monitor using the Mini’s USB-C port and all was not close to good.<p></p><p>The second monitor lit up, but only after nearly a full minute of blinking and struggling to make a connection. </p><p>Must be a faulty cable, I thought, so I tried a couple of other HDMI cables. Same result. Then I bought a new HDMI to USB-C cable -- yes, a cheap one - and the monitor still had the jitters. </p><p>At that point, I decided the problem must be in the monitor and I would just have to live with it. So I did, for more than a year.</p><p>Then I saw the <a href="https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0B6HP2RCN?th=1" target="_blank">TECHTOBOX cable</a> and decided to try a cable that was advertised as being actually designed to handle high-speed 4K content. Now I have a secondary monitor that springs to life maybe two seconds after the main screen, and with no blinking or flashing. I also tried it with my MacBook Air and again got an instant display of a crisp, clear image that mirrored the built-in screen.</p><p>The cable appears to be well constructed with braided shielding, gold-plated connectors and metal tips with rubber protector sleeves. I don't know what's inside the cable that allows it to deliver a signal that doesn't cause my monitor to sputter and hiccup and, frankly, I don't care all that much. I'm just glad it works as advertised. </p><p>And now that I have a second monitor that no longer acts like it’s about the die, I'm thinking of getting another one of these cables to use with my portable gear.</p><div><br /></div></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-56822639326806548782022-12-01T20:58:00.002-05:002023-12-13T15:46:52.302-05:00This monitor riser falls short<p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17);"></span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79ovR_07wzxbb_lVnXJq2etdxO86XPV65SseBVsO_yFSvj43armVDDDNoRl4hieiWbzoApTdaI4xQcGCiHL_72MQTIxv__T-fBm5CIud1W-rSGY3MzzZLv0e4GW-W3rlI2_qIcwb2eDEoW3YkBt6iOM8m1NygWuUmXQZRxp1tx-TMujD1vhNqg0dh/s2853/full.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2150" data-original-width="2853" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79ovR_07wzxbb_lVnXJq2etdxO86XPV65SseBVsO_yFSvj43armVDDDNoRl4hieiWbzoApTdaI4xQcGCiHL_72MQTIxv__T-fBm5CIud1W-rSGY3MzzZLv0e4GW-W3rlI2_qIcwb2eDEoW3YkBt6iOM8m1NygWuUmXQZRxp1tx-TMujD1vhNqg0dh/s320/full.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">After several months with a 32-inch </span><span style="color: #0f1111;">curved monitor, I thought I needed </span><span style="color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17);">a monitor stand. Raising the monitor by a few inches would put it in slightly better eye position and the stand would pair it with a second monitor that I like to use in a vertical orientation. But the <a href="https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0BDRPC9VZ?th=1" target="_blank">Yaohuoo riser</a> that I ordered on Amazon fell a bit short of my goal. </span></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">My first surprise came when I saw the number of pieces I would need to assemble this dual stand: 10 wood veneer panels, four metal connecting plates and more than 40 screws, pegs, locking posts and their companion discs. I’m an IKEA fan, so complicated assembly tasks don’t really bother me but this seemed like overkill for such a simple item.</span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">If you look closely at the images on the riser’s sales page, you will see that the center part of each surface has a different color. Turns out that’s because those accent pieces are separate segments that must be attached using the four metal plates and 24 screws. I ignored the little allen wrench that Yaohuoo provided and grabbed my cordless drill. Otherwise the work might have taken all day.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">When I finally got all the pieces connected, it was time to set up my Mac Mini and its two monitors. It was not a good choice for my 32-inch curved monitor. I could clearly see that bolted-on center panel begin to sag under the weight of a 20-pound monitor.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">So call it my fault for choosing a square peg for a round hole. In my defense, the product page shows the stand being used with a pair of Apple monitors which can also be pretty heavy. On the plus side, this double riser can be deployed in several different arrangements. I expect it would work just fine for a laptop and maybe a 24-inch companion monitor but it wasn’t right for my setup.</span></span>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-72592300115665119832022-11-20T12:50:00.005-05:002023-12-13T15:46:00.438-05:00COLBOR delivers a blast of light for video shoots<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYd1AO907F1nBFOHcaoWXJNeeC5rZ3bpE6IgRu6NMycF5l7I3kROGA9vBJfhwWkguK7ZLFKkX4VYppbzmK82CaCn6uUnJH78kcces2SisT2Cm2nMPDJjHk5CgaI4yWAf2JXQBI62_5vdObUKmrA5nIyPma0nv1gaV7veF_TW43MFOHB6hArVnYM-f/s1280/first.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYd1AO907F1nBFOHcaoWXJNeeC5rZ3bpE6IgRu6NMycF5l7I3kROGA9vBJfhwWkguK7ZLFKkX4VYppbzmK82CaCn6uUnJH78kcces2SisT2Cm2nMPDJjHk5CgaI4yWAf2JXQBI62_5vdObUKmrA5nIyPma0nv1gaV7veF_TW43MFOHB6hArVnYM-f/s320/first.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>After a frustrating couple of years trying to light my indoor video scenes with underpowered LCD lights or clip-on work lights from the hardware store, I finally decided to get my hands on a good pro-level studio light. <p></p><p>I picked the <a href="https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0B59D2BP8" target="_blank">COLBOR CL60</a>. It's a lightweight and affordably-priced LCD light that delivers far more illumination than the cheap alternatives I was trying or the low-wattage ring lights I've seen pitched to YouTubers. </p><p>The lamp in the CL60 can produce a color temperature raging from 2700K to 6500K with variable brightness. That was all the I needed to shoot a couple of product videos in an indoor setting. The primary job of the CL60 is to be the key light, the main lighting source for the star of the show, whether it's a person or a product. Let's say your star is a cook positioned behind a kitchen island, ready to demonstrate a recipe. A single CL60 would provide adequate lighting for that type of video. </p><p>The light comes with a horn-shaped reflector which is good for directing light on a specific spot. I tried the light for a scene that involved several people in my living room. The COLBOR light focused on people in the center of the group, leaving those on the margins in the shade. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CvTslzug9yywTi44ZzURV24RW1mtPauuu0nlWLq-UCtlCBiQ3xBUaFACETlrocy9X-v6zA7oyyaC1ItCQt-z6WszvCXMwcb-tsxnkiUprTcD6SuiILINtnDZ9RNwQ3VUcTHyEC91ZWJio7Krvq9sXK6CVvMUGkDLxhyvN1-Cs8GdZ_oq0CXjX6tB/s1280/second.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CvTslzug9yywTi44ZzURV24RW1mtPauuu0nlWLq-UCtlCBiQ3xBUaFACETlrocy9X-v6zA7oyyaC1ItCQt-z6WszvCXMwcb-tsxnkiUprTcD6SuiILINtnDZ9RNwQ3VUcTHyEC91ZWJio7Krvq9sXK6CVvMUGkDLxhyvN1-Cs8GdZ_oq0CXjX6tB/w200-h113/second.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The shot would likely have come out better if I had used a diffuser attachment in place of the reflector. Making that switch would have been easy as the CL60 comes with a Bowens mount adapter to hold the reflector. The mount is a ring that lets you snap in a variety of other attachments including diffusers and other light-shaping tools. <p></p><p>Judging by the photos on the sales page for the CL60, you might think that the light is a portable unit with it's own power supply. It's not. The light needs a external power source, either the USB-C charger that comes wit the gear or your own charging brick. </p><p>The light comes with a nicely-designed carrying case. The only item I had to purchase was a metal screw adapter that I needed to mount the light on a tripod. Overall, the COLBOR CL60 turned out to be just what I was looking for: a versatile and affordable first step into pro-level video lighting. </p>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7964190734930792378.post-62268338417815750082022-10-24T12:25:00.002-04:002024-01-06T08:14:13.411-05:00Pro-level tripod is a serious upgrade<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBfzCxi9FyfHSakHoyHWvd5hYzUKEhmeVlhtvtc9FlcDx_0Kqe2ihNZLkYYUV62oiMeqpeZBDZ7POw23AlajTkSgmNNEqB1jtHp60Gkr6Ik6Euyzf3q6s3TM-NhXNoEYIiJ14CliLVk_cIcRn2jo5HGzeCO2unb3lnaNp7ep6-0vPxpSwAMkBUs9OC/s1280/handle.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBfzCxi9FyfHSakHoyHWvd5hYzUKEhmeVlhtvtc9FlcDx_0Kqe2ihNZLkYYUV62oiMeqpeZBDZ7POw23AlajTkSgmNNEqB1jtHp60Gkr6Ik6Euyzf3q6s3TM-NhXNoEYIiJ14CliLVk_cIcRn2jo5HGzeCO2unb3lnaNp7ep6-0vPxpSwAMkBUs9OC/s320/handle.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t consider my self to be a professional videographer, but have produced dozens of commercial product videos for online sellers. And I’m always interested in upgrading my equipment with pro-level gear. </span><div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-family: inherit;">The <a href="https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B09Y8XPTBD" target="_blank">GEEKOTO tripod</a> I found on Amazon is definitely a step up from the consumer tripods that I’ve been using. Even the best tripod in that collection is a poor option when I use my SLR and have to worry that the rig is going to topple over.</span><p></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">The first thing I noted about this tripod is the quality of the materials. The legs are solid and stable, even when the tripod is extended to a full 5.25 feet. The head holds a larger than normal ball that rotates smoothly and easily locks into place. And the head is so sturdy that it can function as a low-angle camera stand when it’s separated from the legs.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">The head platform can work with a standard sliding shoe or with a screw mount for a phone, light or other gear. I really like the large knobs that tighten the ball socket and the horizontal panning scale that helps you get a smooth pan.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">My video highlights several of the tripod’s main features, including some that I have never seen on consumer tripods. One is the notch points that let you lock in each of the three angle positions for the legs.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">Another is the hook built into the center post. It lets you add a weight or a secured line to the center of the tripod to provide an extra measure of stability. And the center post is reversible. Why would you need that? Let’s say you shoot from a position close to the ground but with a slight upward angle, perhaps for a remote shot. You can mount the head and your camera between the tripod’s legs and lock in the exact view that you want.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;">The GEEKOTO is going to be my go-to tripod, even when I’m traveling. It’s advertised as a travel tripod and it does indeed collapse down to a snug 20 inches. And although it is slightly heavier than most consumer tripods, its high quality is fair tradeoff for a few extra ounces.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SlbK33aCY3I" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></span></span></div>Ric Manninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15175182690337810784noreply@blogger.com0