I Got Nothing

So you get this... How to live like a king for very little. Crude, but true.

Storage

I know there are pros and cons to various storage options, but the Microsoft Office 365 subscription is really attractive. You can get 1 TB of OneDrive space plus Office for $6.99/month. I may have to buy a laptop to support my consulting work and would like to get the new version of Office. Instead of shelling out for the full version all at once, I can pay $7/month or $70 for the year. (If you want to install Office on up to five devices, you can $9.99/month or $99.99/year.)

On-line storage comparison at the Technologizer

I can't wait to see how Google, Dropbox, etc. respond!

Wouxun KG-UV8D: Firmware Update and Green Buttons

The latest version (firmware v1.03) of the KG-UV8D is available at BuyTwoWayRadios:

"First, the KG-UV8D is now available with 2.5k step. Early versions of this radio were only available with a minimum 5k step. Of course, an eventual update to a 2.5k version was expected, and Wouxun recently brought addition of the smaller step to market."

"The KG-UV8D comes standard with a 1700mAh battery pack in the box. However, for a limited time, Buy Two Way Radios is replacing the stock battery pack with a FREE high capacity battery upgrade!" 

"Demo versions of the KG-UV8D featured green A/B and EXIT buttons on the keypad. When Wouxun officially released the radio to market, the buttons were black. Those who were expecting the KG-UV8D to ship with green buttons were disappointed to find they were black. 

"Well, due to popular demand, Buy Two Way Radios worked with Wouxun to bring back the green buttons, and now we have them! This is a limited run, and we only received one hundred of them, but now you can get a KG-UV8D with green buttons while supplies last. Whether we are able to get more in the future with green buttons depends on the demand."

Some people are already getting their new ones.

My Friends

This week my friends have included:

fixboot
Two XP machines suddenly lost their minds. A little Recovery Console magic got them going again:

"Use this command to write the new Windows boot sector code on the system partition. In the command syntax, drive name is the drive letter where the boot sector will be written. This command fixes damage in the Windows boot sector. This command overrides the default setting, which writes to the system boot partition. The fixboot command is supported only on x86-based computers."

netstat -a
A computer that should be a good machine would take an incredibly long time to open Excel, Word, and Reader files. If you were in the application and did a File | Open everything was quick. Netstat allowed me see that the computer was trying to connect to a server that had been retired. It was just spinning its wheels until it timed out. I ended up adding the old server name to DNS and pointing it to the new server.

Hiren's BootCD
A great general purpose boot disc with lots of tools, but I used it for NTPWEdit 0.3 to reset a customer's password on an XP box. Download here.

Microsoft Program Install and Uninstall Fixit troubleshooter

A client had tried re-installing a tool on his laptop, but it wouldn't complete successfully. It kept throwing an "Error 1706. No valid source could be found for product VeriFire Tools. The Windows Installer cannot continue."  I ran the Fixit troubleshooter from here to clean-up the broken installs. (I had to run it four times as the software showed up four times and each one needed to be removed.)

Lots of other good stuff recently, too... playing with Server 2012, Exchange 2010, a Juniper firewall, a MondoPad, Trend cloud anti-virus, etc.

HT Repeater Box for $20?

Radioddity is selling the RPT-2D Two Way Radio Repeater Box for Two Transceivers Station DIY for $28. But, if they get 200 likes on Facebook, they will drop the price to $20.

Via reddit

Reading by Street Light

This is one of the most vivid examples of life without electricity at home: http://t.co/s88OQpRDbL pic.twitter.com/eAIDTnf9sH
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) June 27, 2014

Leixen VV-898: Updated Software

EA7LX comments that there is a new version of the VV-898 software:

"It gave an error on FM radio frequency despite you change it or not. It was a MODAL ERROR so you had to kill the program and never send the info to the radio. It has something to do with "." PERIOD and "," COMMA in regional settins being different from chineses. I have had the same problem with Windows7 Spanish and WindowsXP English. Now it works. Note that the date of the downloadable file has changed but it keeps th same version and release numbers."

Leixen downloads are here.

Pofung - Evolution

I didn't recall the image, so this may be a dup, but here you go anyway.

Via AR-15.com

IoT with Google Nest

It is amazing the connections that will be possible with the IoT and devices like Google Nest.

Some of the “Works With Nest” automations which Nest is talking about: 

• Mercedes-Benz cars can alert a Nest thermostat to when you’ll arrive home so that it can begin adjusting the temperature while you’re on your way.

• Logitech Harmony universal remotes can be programmed to control a Nest thermostat.

• A Nest thermostat can tell a Whirlpool washer and dryer that you’re not at home, allowing them to switch to slower, more energy-efficient cycles.

• When your Jawbone Up24 wristband knows you’ve woken up, it can tell a Nest thermostat so that it can tweak the temperature.

• LIFX light bulbs can flash if your Nest Protect smoke detector goes off, and fool prowlers by turning on and off randomly when your Nest thermostat tells them that you’re not around.

• The excellent IFTTT service for DIY automation works with the Nest thermostat and Nest Protect smoke detector, letting you write your own recipes, such as one which alerts the neighbors by text message if smoke is detected at your home.

• Starting this fall, the Google Now smartphone app will let the Nest thermostat know when you’re on the way home, and will allow you to set it through an “OK Google” spoken command.

Xiegu X108: Pre-order at Import Communications

Ed has posted the X108 kits for pre-order at Import Communications. The Standard edition kit is $595.00, but on sale now for $535.50. Likewise, the Deluxe edition is normally $695.00, but available for $625.50. Sale prices are good through July 15. He should get the kits in late July.

Bad Dog

Country Song

So, some good news in that my consulting gig has turned into some significant hours. I worked an actual full 40+ hours last week. I'll get another 40 this week and it may continue into July.

On the other hand, this week-end has been a bit like a country song... a flat tire, the US Men's National team giving away two points yesterday, and I got attacked by a dog while running on the greenway this morning.

I'm waiting on the flat to be fixed and I've got my leg cleaned up. If the team can tie or beat Germany, then things will be back on track.

Xiegu X108: More from Import Communications

Ed at Import Communications shares:

There will be two versions: X108 Standard and X108 Deluxe.
Standard will have no noise blanker and 1 ppm TCXO module.
Deluxe will have noise blanker, 0.5 ppm TCXO module and those plastic handles front and rear.

These extra items are available as options that can be added to the Standard version.

Gadgets and Gimics

For the most part, I'm not spending money on anything but the essentials, so I won't pony up for these, but I thought they were cool.

First, the Rocketfish™ - 3' Lighted Lightning Charge/Sync Cable. The cable is illuminated along its length. The lights show the flow of the charge - fast as it does the rapid charge, slowing as the charge nears 100%, and turning off when the charge is complete.




I also keep thinking about getting a Raspberry Pi, but since I'm not a Linux guy, I might need this Linux Cheat Sheet Shirt.

Via LifeHacker

Xiegu X108: Import Communications

Ed at Import Communications has some more information about the X108.

First, he will be the North American distributor for any of the new Xiegu radios - including the X108. The factory says that the X108 is still in a testing period and there is no definite release date. They will release 30-50 units for testing, but in the Chinese market only. Pricing is not established yet, but Ed hopes to hear something from them soon. They will continue to make the X1M-Pro as the X108 will be at a significantly higher price point - perhaps as much as two or three times higher than the X1M-Pro.

$20 in Quarters for $26.99

Washboard - where they will ship you $20 in quarters for only $26.99. It sounds like an SNL skit.

Game of Thrones vs. The Princess Bride

Game of Thrones vs. The Princess Bride

Xiegu X108: Clarifications

First, a clarification from me... I should have put more detail on the post about the X108. My usual readers know that I don't actually sell radios here. I just copied the Google translation of the forum post about the X108. At the moment, I've not even been able to find a place to purchase the X108.

Second, a clarification from Bill, VK7MX, who went through the translated mess and tried to figure out what everything actually meant.

Wouxun KG-UV8D: HRO Version

HRO is advertising a version 3 of the KG-UV8D, but according to Wouxun this is not really an upgrade. HRO mentions black buttons (instead of green) and I think this may create some fake drama around the various versions.

(Based on recent traffic on the Yahoo Groups, I expect someone to ask if swapping one color of buttons for another will allow them to transmit/receive on 11 meters.)

Xiegu X108: Video

Xiegu X108: Update

X108 Update (and pics):

X108 is the X1 one series. It is a single-conversion shortwave transceiver. In strict accordance with standard industrial design, design optimization transceiver channels, improve the overall receiver dynamic range and SNR; To enhance SSB and CW transceiver performance, specially customized military-grade crystals, crystal filters for the production of IF. X108 machine configured 2.4k and 500Hz for SSB , CW filter, the filter performance is excellent, comparable merchandise machine crystal filters to ensure excellent frequency characteristics of the machine. In addition, the machine is also equipped with AGC , S meter, power meter standing wave, NB (module) function, the operator can meet their daily needs. RF transmit channels using imported MOS tube, the machine APC circuit to ensure the machine is kept constant RF output power level of each band, and also according to the actual needs, adjust the output power level, and have a high VSWR protection. Overall performance indicators to meet the national standard, FCC (or CE ) certification requirements.

Receiver characteristics
Low noise, single-conversion superheterodyne receiver;
Double-balanced diode mixer, providing excellent dynamic range;
Receiver sensitivity: . 0 2 uV (preamp open);
Narrow-band double-tuned band-pass filter, to achieve coverage of all amateur bands ( WARC band);
6 emission in low-pass filter, the filter function to provide excellent performance;
IF channel AGC ( AGC ), providing a constant in the amplifier gain;
Preamplifier and switchable attenuator;
Excellent performance of narrowband IF crystal filter shape factor of up to 1.7 ;
Multi VFO mode , can vary the frequency of work;
Provide S meter, power / SWR meter display;
Optional NB modules;
Optional front panel knob;

Transmitter characteristics
Power adjustable, from 1W ~ 20W ;
Dedicated RF power tube, superior performance;
High VSWR protection, durable, safe and reliable;
Stray radiation rejection: ≥ 40dBc
Standard CW amplitude newspaper;
Automatic key rate adjustable;

Receiving frequency range: 0.5 ~ 30MHz
Transmitting frequency range: all WARC bands ( HAM band)

Work mode:

SSB ( J3E )
CW ( A1A )
AM ( A3E )

Frequency Stability: 1.0 ppm @ -10 ℃ ~ +60 ℃ (standard)
0.5 ppm @ -20 ℃ ~ +75 ℃ ( military regulations, optional)
Receiver sensitivity: . 0 2 uV

Optional:
SSB 2.4kHz (-6dB)
CW 0.5kHz (-6dB)

Dynamic Range: 95dB
RF Power Output: 20W ;
Spurious rejection: ≥ 45dBc
Carrier suppression: ≥ 45dBc
Antenna Port Impedance: 50 Omega
Operating voltage: 12.5V ~ 14.5V DC ;

Current
Receive 0. 75 ​​A ( Max )
Transmitter 7A ( Max )

With multifunction digital microphone in hand, can achieve full function control, such as digital set-frequency operation;
Equipped with a USB port for easy connection to PC end, realize software control;
32 channel storage;
RIT fine-tuning;
Front panel to protect the handle (optional);
Dimension: 120 * 45 * 180 ( mm )




X108 production is currently being prepared and is expected in 25 days you can get a production machine. X108 is divided into standard and high version in two versions, specific pricing as follows: Standard Edition: 2280 yuan / Taiwan, including the Standard Edition host, hand microphone, power cord, CW plugs, packaging (accessories). High version: 2680 yuan / Taiwan, Standard Edition contains all the configuration, front panel knob, NB modules, high version identifier starting a discount for X1M old user has another offer, so stay tuned! Have everyone's support, we will do better!

Free Tektronix 2225 100MHz Scope (you pay shipping)

Not here on my blog, so don't get confused and comment below. The giveaway is at http://www.reddit.com/r/amateurradio.

"I purchased a digital scope at Dayton and I'd like to get rid of my space hungry analog scope. It would be a great one for a newbie. I got it for free so I'll pay it forward. I just ask that you pay for shipping, should be about $50, its pretty heavy. I'll include probes. The scope isn't in the best of shape but both channels work. The pots could use some cleaning with DeOxit probably. It's free... (almost) 

Oh for the comment - leave me a comment on what you plan to build that you will use the scope for or something interesting like that. Your comment has no impact on whether you'll win or not, just gives me something to read other than "I WANT IT" 

I'll do a random lottery drawing at 00:00 UTC on June 20th based on the comments on this thread. Please US hams only."

More Amplifier News

When I saw all the information about the Xiegu amplifiers (XPA100, XPA20), I thought I would check with Ed at Import Communications. He says he should have an American designed 20W amplifier that matches the X1M form factor available in kit form by the end of the month.

Organize your shack with SmartJars:

"SmartJars® are the easiest way to get organized fast!In three simple steps, stuff goes from distributed clutter to organized and elegant: 
1. You put your stuff in a SmartJar®. 2. You snap the SmartJar® Dock on to pegboard. 3. You put the SmartJar® in to the Dock. Ordered. Easy to find. Laid out just the way you want."

Via KK Cool Tools

Brick O'Lore After Dark III

A new guy in town walks into a bar and notices a large jar filled to the brim with $10 bills. The man approaches the bartender and asks, "What's up with the jar?"

"Well, you pay $10, and if you pass three tests, then you get all the money."

"What are the three tests?" asks the man

"Gotta pay first."

So the guy gives him the $10 bucks, and the bartender adds it to the jar.

"OK, here's what you have to do. First, you have to drink that whole bottle of pepper tequila -- the WHOLE thing at once -- and you can't make a face while doing it. Second, there's a pit bull chained up out back with a sore tooth. You have to remove the tooth with your bare hands. Third, there is a 90-year-old woman upstairs who's never had an orgasm in her life. You gotta make things right for her."

"Well, I know I've paid my $10 bucks," says the man, "but I'm not an idiot. No wonder you've collected so much money -- that's impossible!"

The new guy proceeds to drink several whiskeys, and eventually, he gets up his nerve.

"Wherez zat teeqeelah?" he slurs.

He grabs the bottle of pepper tequila with both hands and downs it, gulp by gulp. Tears are streaming down his cheeks, but he doesn't make a face. Next, he staggers out back. Everyone in the bar hears a huge scuffle outside -- barking, yelping and growling, then silence.

Just when they think the man must be dead, he staggers back into the bar with his shirt ripped and gashes across his body.

"NOW," he says, "wherez at ol' lady with the sore tooth?"

Knoxville HamFest

My daughter and I took a quick trip to the Knoxville HamFest. It was her first one. We went late, so I missed what I heard was a good bone yard. I'll post a couple of pictures and more later, but I will say I was a little surprised to see a Leixen VV-898.

Warp Drive Spaceship

Nasa's warp drive spaceship.

More pictures here.

Via my nephew

IoT: Honeywell Lyric Thermostat

Forget the NSA, your thermostat is watching you.

"The Lyric has a motion sensor, too–one which it uses to put itself into an interactive mode when it notices you’ve approached. But for monitoring whether you’re at home at all, Honeywell’s thermostat leverages its iOS and Android apps. Your phone tracks your location via GPS and reports it back to the thermostat, so the Lyric knows if you’re around the house or at a distant location. And if it notices that you’re headed home, it can begin to adjust itself so that the temperature is ideal by the time you arrive."

Xiegu XPA100 Amplifier

So today must be Xiegu amplifier (see XPA20) day here at brickolore.com... I saw this a while back, but did not get it posted:

"This stuff has been tested over time, the basic OK. Linear power amplifier input 5W, output 100W, emission indicators shown below, the maximum operating current of approximately 26A.

Have the following basic functions:
automatic frequency measurement
automatic transmission control
automatic temperature control fan
high VSWR protection, thermal protection, overcurrent
power detection
power can set the data format compatible ICOM and YAESU key indicators are as follows: Frequency Range: 0.5 ~ 32MHz Operating voltage: 13.8V Current: 22A @ 100W Max Maximum input power: ≤ 5W maximum output power: ≥ 100W emission efficiency: ≥ 36% work: AB class amplifier input VSWR: 1.2 ≤ fluctuation gain band: ≤ 1.0dB ALC control Range: ≥ 20dB Spurious emission rejection: ≥ 55dB Output Impedance: 50 ohms Frequency Detection time: ≤ 5ms Input Protection: Built-in terminal load Display: 3.0-inch color TFT LCD screen Dimension: 138mm * 85mm * 270mm XPA100 amplifier project completed, the indicators parameters comply with FCC and CE certification requirements, protection agency act quickly to meet the needs of residential, commercial, professional and other applications. My goal is clear, is to make products for everyone to use, do not take the Simple equipment compared with XPA100, we do not fight the price is expected sale price: 2788 yuan / Taiwan (only in mainland China, excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan foreign) after May 5, scheduled to begin. Thanks again for everyone's attention and support has always been, because of you, we can do better"

And an update later:

XPA100 amplifier project has been completed, the indicators parameters comply with FCC and CE certification requirements, protection agency act quickly to meet the needs of residential, commercial, professional and other applications. My goal is clear, is to make products for everyone to use, do not take the Simple equipment compared with XPA100, we do not take the low road is expected sale price: 2788 yuan / Taiwan (only in mainland China, excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, overseas) after May 5, scheduled to begin. Thanks again for everyone's attention and support has always been, because of you, we can do better

Xiegu XPA20 Amplifier

XPA20 Compact 6-Band Amateur HF 20 Watt Linear amplifier for use with X1M QRP Transceiver (149 GBP / 253 USD):

"The XPA20 is intended as a companion linear amplifier for the X1M HF QRP transceiver, for those who would like a little more oomph than the X1M's 5 Watt output. It is rated at 20 Watts maximum output for 5 Watts input and is suitable for both CW and SSB modes."

XPA20 FEATURES

Switchable CW/SSB mode circuit
Six selectable low pass filter settings
Selectable time delay
BNC Female input & antenna connectors

XPA20 SPECIFICATIONS

RF power output (max): 20 W for 5 W input
Low pass filter settings:
2.0 MHz
4.0 MHz
7.5 MHz
15.0 MHz
22.0 MHz
30.0 MHz
Time delay (selectable): 100 ms to 1000 ms
Transmission modes: SSB (A3J), CW (A1)
Supply voltage (min/max): 12.5/14.0
Current draw (max): 7.2 A
Dimensions: 97 x 40 x 155 mm
Weight: 550 g

1 x XPA20 HF linear amplifier
1 x Power connector housing with 2 x crimp terminals
1 x 3.5 mm stereo Y cable
1 x 3.5 mm stereo extension cable

Via the Xiegu Yahoo Group

Oscilloscopes Discussion on Slashdot.org

Oscilloscopes Discussion on Slashdot.org.

4-Way vs Roundabout

My brother and I were just discussing this...

Xircom PE3 & Combo Card

I just read Gough's Tech Flashback: Intel EtherExpress PRO/100 Mobile Adapter. I installed a few of those back in the day. He nails it here:

"The connector itself is very small and has securing latches which “click” into place to engage with the card. It’s also very thin and protrudes from the card a significant distance. As a result, these things were a pain in the ass to use, as they can easily be carelessly yanked from the card at an angle, causing the connector to crack or be damaged."

It also reminded me of the Xircom PE3 Parallel Port Ethernet Adapter. If all else failed, we could always get a PC on the network with one of them. I never went anywhere without one or two in the tool bag.

(Pic from here)

We also liked the Xircom combo Ethernet and modem card. It took up both PCMCIA slots, but it eliminated the need for the dongles. Of course, this was all in the olden days before they started building all these things into the laptops.

Wouxun KG-UV8D: Software Problem Update

I traded messages with the guys at BuyTwoWayRadios.com about the software problem with the KG-UV8D.

They've seen a problem where the radio shuts down when transmitting. They aren't 100% sure, but the common factor seems to be that the customers had used the frequency adjusting software. They are working with Wouxun to find out more, but that will take some time.

It sounds like they are working hard to keep their customers happy, but I would recommend avoiding the frequency expanding software just in case.

IoT: WiFan

The Internet of Things is coming... Internet enabled fans. You can pre-order it now for around a cool $1,000.

Via Uncrate

Productive Morning

I should have a productive morning as Feedly is the victim of a DDoS attack.

Baofeng UV-5R: Battery Eliminator Wiring

Baofeng UV-5R Battery Eliminator Wiring - inside the battery eliminator.

Wouxun KG-UV8D: Software Problems

So according to these posts, there is a problem with the software:

"So i just got off the Phone with buytwowayradios.com because my radio has issue I found out that if you download the Software on Miklor.com it can screw up the radio but making the sound muffle and shutting it down and they said there is no way to fix the problem at the moment.Do not download the software.They said they have had multiple people complain.But they are still going to exchange the radio for me.Great Customer Service."

Soccer

Lots of soccer stuff floating around. It's like there will be a big tournament soon or something.

Baofeng UV-5R Plus for $29.99

Deal is at Radioddity - Baofeng UV-5R Plus for $29.99 (Free Shipping).

Hat tip to the Reddit post.

Dude, you are harshing my QSO

HAM Radio Transmissions can be disrupted by the most unlikely of sources.... http://t.co/9wPDYzyeP4
— Hamcity (@Hamcity) June 5, 2014

Xiegu X108: Another Pic

Looks like an instagram pic... I just noticed the translated tags read "Military" and "DIY Radio Category." Not sure what the "Military" tag should be or is about.

Printer Device

"Hey, grab that TPS report off the printer device," said no one ever.

From Craig Zacker's "Exam Ref MCSA 70-410: Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012 R2" book*:

NOTE PRINTING NOMENCLATURE
“Printer” and “print device” are the most commonly misused terms in the Windows printing vocabulary. Obviously, many sources use “printer” to refer to the printing hardware. However, in Windows, printer and print device are not equivalent. For example, you can add a printer to a Windows Server 2012 computer without a physical print device being present. The computer can then host the printer, print server, and printer driver. These three components enable the computer to process the print jobs and store them in a print queue until the print device is available.

I'm not criticizing Craig here at all. I think Microsoft missed the boat with their word choice. Let's take a common usage and avoid it all costs!

And on the topic of printers, I've seen it time and again when someone goes into "Devices and Printers" to make a change to their printer settings. Right-click and you get these options:

Naturally, everyone goes to the bottom of the list and selects "Properties" - only to be disappointed when they get this.

Cancel. Right-click and remember to click "Printer Properties". Ah, there is something useful.

* And, for those of you keeping score at home. I've started studying for my MCSA/MCSE.

Xiegu X108

Looks like the X108 to match the rendering.

Company Names

There is something to be said for having a company name that is not tied to a specific brand. With the change of Baofeng to Pofung, it would be better (at least in my mind) to be something like BuyTwoWayRadios.com instead of BaofengTech. You've got all your eggs in one brand basket.

I think we saw another example of this with Wouxun.us and Import Communications when the relationship developed problems.

Chipper

A wooden motorcycle at the Museum of Appalachia. Pretty amazing work.

Brick O'Lore After Dark II

Three women friends, one in a casual relationship, one engaged to be married and one a long-time wife, met for drinks after work. The conversation eventually drifted towards how best to spice up their sex lives. After much discussion, they decided to surprise their men by engaging in some S&M role playing.

The following week they met up again to compare notes.
Sipping her drink, the single girl leered and said, 'Last Friday at the end of the work day I went to my boyfriend's office wearing a leather coat. When all the other people had left, I slipped out of it and all I had on was a leather bodice, black stockings and stiletto heels. He was so aroused that we made mad passionate love on his desk right then and there!'

The engaged woman giggled and said, 'That's pretty much my story! When my fiancé got home last Friday, he found me waiting for him in a black mask, leather bodice, black hose and stiletto pumps. He was so turned on that we not only had sex all night, he wants to move up our wedding date!'

The married woman put her glass down and said, 'I did a lot of planning. I made arrangements for the kids to stay over at Grandma's. I took a long scented-oil bath and then put on my best perfume. I slipped into a tight leather bodice, a black garter belt, black stockings and six-inch stilettos. I finished it off with a black mask. When my husband got home from work, he grabbed a beer and the remote, sat down and yelled, 'Hey Batman what's for dinner?"

With Friends Like Me

So a former co-worker was asked to document a system after a problem occurred that resulted in a couple of hours of downtime. From his description, it sounded more like a communications issue than a true technical issue. And this system is massive when you include all the moving parts - database, communication servers, web servers, client-server apps, PLCs, HIDs, printers, scanners, etc. Everything sits on top of an IP network, of course, with a Microsoft Active Directory infrastructure, so toss in potential problems with the Cisco hardware, DHCP, AD logins, etc. Even if they froze the environment, it would take years to document every component and potential problem. So given that he was asked by a seagull manager to document this behemoth*, he was a little frustrated I think.

I tried to help out by endorsing him for the "Software Documentation" skill on LinkedIn.



* I do think there are parts of this system that could use better documentation. I also believe in good postmortems, so you can avoid or minimize problems in the future. However, in this situation, I think the criticism of the manager's request is appropriate given the nature of the problem and the environment they are in.

Magic

Any technology sufficiently advanced is indistinguishable from magic... teleportation.

Tiny 2M Receiver

So several people (both on my post and the reddit thread) suggested looking at the Alinco radios for a tiny receiver option - specifically the DJC7.  That thing is extremely thin and has many more features than what I was talking about.

I also found this old thread on AR-15.com

But I want something even smaller - along the lines of this size would be great (see picture below). That's $13.99 for a "High Quality mp3 player 1.8" LCD screen 100% 8GB slim 4th player with FM radio video play games free shipping wholesale." I don't think volumes would be such that you would get down to that price, but I wonder how hard it would be to replace the chip (87MHz -108MHz) with one that would receive the amateur 2M frequencies. I'd like to have it for running as I've said before. I can think of a few other uses. For example, if you want to allow people without a license to easily listen without loaning them a transceiver - particularly for monitoring at an event - this might fit the bill.

Best Printer

Lifehacker readers have crowned their favorite printer - the Brother HL-2270DW. I've got the older HL-2170W and it has been great for years. I don't use it a lot, but it has worked every time I've pulled the trigger with no failure to feeds, jams, etc. It is the Glock of printers.

(And I just realized my shoes and printer share a model number.)

Pofung Baofeng

So Baofeng is Pofung - not just a new name, but the "only" brand outside of China.

"Rebranding of BAOFENG to ‘Pofung’ In International Markets 

We are pleased to announce today that we’re rebranding our products as ‘Pofung’ for international markets.

Thanks to our valued customers from all over the world, we’ve been embracing an exciting growth in the last few years. We feel it’s time to adapt our brand to the global stage. The current name ‘BAOFENG’, a literal Pinyin translation of our Chinese character name, may be difficult for a hobbyist across the ocean to pronounce. We’ve heard different kinds of pronunciations, like ‘BAY-O-FENG’. The new name ‘Pofung’ is easier to pronounce and more friendly to our customers, while maintaining the phonetic symbolism of our brand.

Our new brand ‘Pofung’ will gradually replace the existing brand ‘BAOFENG’ in the global markets outside China. Products for the domestic market in China will retain their current brand name and identity. Our official web domain www.baofengradio.com will remain unchanged.

The new brand builds on our heritage as a reliable and professional provider of high-performance ham transceivers.We will continue to provide our customers with high-quality, cost-effective radio communication solutions, through our authorized distributors like AMAZON.COM, SAIN STORE, RADIODDITY.COM, and BAOFENGTECH.COM. We advise you to purchase only from authorized distributors to ensure quality of the products and service you get.

The rebrand is also in line with our global vision and our commitment to strive toward excellence. We look forward to bringing you more exciting products under the new brand. For updates on our rebranding process and information on our new products, please visit www.baofengradio.com and the following websites of our business partners: www.baofengtech.com www.radioddity.com and www.sainsonic.com."

I checked and www.pofung.com is registered, but there isn't anything there yet.

Ham Radio Mascots

"I have seen a number of radio mascots pictured in various threads, be they figures, stuffed animals or whatever. It got me wondering how many here have some kind of little mascot with their equipment. Post yours for us to see."

Mine...

Past My Prime

I knew I was past my prime, but now data!

"In summary, endurance runners obtained their best performance in the marathon at 27 years in men and 29 in women. Thus, elite marathon runners should program their long-term training to obtain maximal performance during their late 20s."

Via The Blaze 

The Brick Bank

I'm going to start a bank - negative deposit rate guaranteed!

E-mail me and we'll work out the details. I'm willing to do up to 100% negative rate for the right depositors.

Pofung Baofeng

I've seen links to an announcement saying that Baofeng is now officially Pofung for the non-China markets, but the links don't work. Anyone got the a cache of the story? (I checked IsItUp.org and it reports the site is down, so it isn't just me.) More as I learn more...

Leixen Programming Cable for VV-808 and VV-898 II

I screwed up the link when I posted about the cable. I fixed it on the original post but am posting again. Sorry!

Leixen is selling the cable via AliExpress for $9.20. (There is a sentence on the listing that makes it seem like they would only sell the cable with a radio. That is incorrect. You may order the cable by itself.)

National Running Day

Today is National Running Day.

XP Hack for Patches

Since none of you are migrating away from XP, here is the hack to keep getting patches from Microsoft for it.

Ten-Tec Patriot: August

Per this comment, the Ten-Tec 507 Patriot will be out in August.

Stream

For the children...

Yesterday, I posted change your font. Today, stream that movie instead of buying that DVD.

Leixen Programming Cable for VV-808 and VV-898

A couple of notes...

1. The programming cable is the same for the VV-808/VV-808S and VV-898.

2. Leixen is selling the cable via AliExpress for $9.20. (There is a sentence on the listing that makes it seem like they would only sell the cable with a radio. That is incorrect. You may order the cable by itself.)

Chromecast: MLS and WatchESPN

I mentioned the Chromecast yesterday and then saw this:

"This means that next week, U.S. soccer fans will have the ability to watch all 64 World Cup games with the tap of the cast button (vuvuzelas not included). Of course, in addition to soccer, you can also cast all of ESPN's other sports content, from the NBA Finals and X Games to college football."

Chromecast

I like my Chromecast and got it when you got some free Netflix, so it was a great deal for me. Amazon has the Chromecast for $29.99 with free ship (saving $5.01).

More Baofeng Version Notes from Nate

From Nate... he's compiled some information from the various links below. Corrections/additions are welcome.

Complete list of links:

General Radio Descriptions:
http://baofengtech.com/radios
Comparison Chart:
http://baofengtech.com/compare
FAQ (Myths and Facts)
http://baofengtech.com/faq
Firmware Guide:
http://baofengtech.com/firmwareguide

Also reference to:
http://www.brickolore.com/2014/06/baofengtech-charts.html

Radio's currently listed on BaofengTech (Plus some additions):


Generation Zero:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UV-3R, 3R+ (UV-100, UV-100 MKII, UV-200, UV-200 MKII, UV-3R MKII, Vero Electronics UV-X4.
The improved Vero Electronics UV-X5 = TYT TH-UV3R probably belongs here too*).


First Generation:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UV-5R, UV5R+, UV-5RA/X, UV-5RC/X, UV-5RE (and most re-branded clones such as the Ronson UV-8R, the Waccom WUV-5R . 409Shop models - UV5R[A-Q] ** belong here too. also if they have + or UU after the model number, it just means that the frequency range was extended by software on the UHF band from 400-470/480 to 400-520, not an improved firmware ).

Slightly better receiver and newer firmware:
UV-B5, UV-B6, UV-82 (=UV82L), UV-82X (=144/220 Mhz model), UV-82C, (And probably the F11, BFUV66 and BFUV89 belong here too).


Second Generation:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GT-3, A-52, B-580T, BF-F8+ (Also BF-530I, BFE500S and maybe BF-F9+  ***).

Notes:

* Vero Electronics UV-X5 = TYT TH-UV3R probably has some small changes in the filter section, similar to what RadioMart\Martyn was trying to do with the TYT TH-UVF9 that probably became the TYT TH-UVF9D.
Ref1: http://www.worldwidedx.com/handitalkies/153179-tyt-th-uv3r-2m-440-also-does-220-a.html
Ref2: http://www.uv3r.com/
Ref3: http://www.brickolore.com/2012/06/tyt-th-uvf9-more-tri-band-info.html
Ref4: http://www.brickolore.com/2012/06/tyt-th-uvf9-story-so-far.html
Ref5: http://www.tyt888.com/en/Products/Detail.asp?ID=2068
** 409Shop models names UV5R[A-Q] might have added letters to indicate the color R/BLUE/CC 
*** Note the lack of [BAND] button on second gen radios that have the UV-5R form - the BF-F8+, the 409Shop's Baofeng BF-F9+ and possibly other clones that we will see in the future.

I hope this will put an end to the Baofeng/Pofung model variation confusion.

Ares Armor Polymer 80% Lower

Ares Armor Polymer 80% Lower - solid core and no index marks, but it has a jig! $90 for one and prices drop if you buy in volume.

"You can build this ar15 receiver at home using tools from the garage. Polymer 80% AR-15 Lower receivers are the easiest way to build a rifle kit at home. No need to go to a machine shop. Support and exercise your 2nd Amendment today. The following are included in your kit purchase. 

Polymer Lower Receiver:  Features a solid core design, stiffened magwell and beefier buffer tube housing. The pistol grip area features a unique no-thread design specific to these lowers. 

The Polymer Jig:  This kit comes with a Jig; which includes all of the bits and end-mills needed to complete the polymer 80% receiver. Finish your AR15 Polymer lower with pride and accuracy provided by this one-time use jig." 

Made in America.  

---

NOTICE TO BATFE GOONS AND JACKBOOTED THUGS: This Product not only complies with the GCA of 1968 but also complies with your arbitrarily and capriciously moved goal post and your unlawful attempts to create law. It is Solid Core and has no Indexing Marks. I DO BITE MY THUMB AT YOU, SIR! I DO BITE MY THUMB AT YOU!"

Ink

Because the promise of a paperless society* has not materialized... we need to change our default fonts to save millions. I already use 6 pt fonts to save disk space.

* And where are my jet packs and flying cars?!?!

Baofeng UV-82C

Baofeng UV-82C where "C" equals commercial. Miklor has a full review here.

Highlights include being able to prevent field programming (and thus fully FCC compliant and the dual PTT can be set to a single PTT mode.

Border Check

Your papers, please.


Via Say Uncle

Middle Out Backups

Anyone doing backups in the modern era probably already knows about reverse incremental backups, but after watching yesterday's Silicon Valley, I'm going to invent the "middle out" backup and make millions!

BaofengTech Charts

I had posted about one of the BaofengTech charts a couple of months ago, but Nate sent me a note about some other charts and updates as well. He sent me the note in the context of this post by Hans - where Baofeng is adding to the confusion by introducing another name to the mix, Pofung.

All of the following links are to the BaofengTech website and they might help you eliminate any of that confusion. (Bonus points for BaofengTech for allowing the charts to be downloaded as an image or PDF file.)

General Radio Descriptions

Comparison Chart

FAQ

Firmware Guide

Dual Climate Control

While I don't find dual climate control systems in the relatively small confines of the typical cabin in a car to be especially useful, I know some people do. Long before such a thing existed, I recall a small deflector my grandfather wired to the central vent in his car. Granny was always hot and needed extra air. He was always cold and didn't want it. A simple thing - a thin piece of wood and a small wire - but effective none the less.

Now, if he had just gotten a utility patent on the idea.

Mary Meeker's State of the Web

Her annual report on trends... I found the following slides the most interesting.

Moore's Law type trends...

I'm surprised that DVR/VOD/DVD is only 23%.

Compute/storage get cheaper. Devices get smaller. Devices become more ubiquitous.

The Radios

I've been remiss and not kept "The Radios" page up to date. I went back through the blog and think I got the ones I had missed.