More FTDI Problems

So back in October of 2014, an updated FTDI driver prevented non-genuine/fake chips from working. It appears Windows Update is pushing out a driver that is causing new problems.

So if you are buying a cable to program your radios, you can save yourself some trouble and get one with a genuine FTDI chip.

Via Slashdot.org

More .22LR

Twenty percent more .22LR production coming from Federal/CCI manufacturer:

"I talked to Dan Compton at the Shot Show about what was going on with .22 production. Everyone is interested in the situation with the ongoing .22 ammunition bubble for the last three years. Store shelves have been empty more often than not. Dan is a Senior Product Line Specialist for Vista Outdoors, which includes CCI and Federal brands. I also talked with other people at the Vista booths and in the industry. 

Over the last year, the decision was made to increase .22 rimfire production. Now it will take about a year to implement that decision. Part of that decision is based on the belief that the overall market has expanded to include more new shooters, young shooters, women and urban shooters."

Via the Weapon-Blog

Build Your Own Full Size Phone Controlled BB-8

A lot more work than I willing to take on, but very cool.



Via @AmyEngineer

Dog Runs Half Marathon

Not only does the dog finish, but she ran it faster than I ever have. Maybe I should try that barefoot running.

The Art of Manliness: The Ultimate List of Hobbies for Men

Ham radio is the second item on the list:

"Looking to be a part of a tight-knit community with a focus on radio and communication? Look no further than ham radio. While the internet has taken radio’s place as the dominant form of communication, a vibrant community of amateur radio enthusiasts still exists. Radio hobbyists enjoy communicating directly with people from all over the world while expanding their knowledge of radio theory. In addition, most ham radio operators provide a public service to their communities by acting as relays in the event of emergencies or natural disasters."

More:

"And of course you’ll need the equipment. Buying new will set you back a pretty penny, but you can find good deals on used radio equipment on eBay."

Or, as we know, you could buy some inexpensive Chinese radios.

Folding Step Stool

Yeah, this is kinda random, but it fits with my useful tools page I am working on.

We bought this small, folding step stool and a more substantial wooden step stool for our daughter. The folding stool was great for her. It is light weight, so she could easily move it around to different places. And, since it folds up, it was easy to tuck out of the way. I find I use it all the time to get to the top of cabinets or to change a light bulb.

The best part... it is only $10 at Amazon.

Via Kinja Deals

Public Service Announcement

The more you know...

Reminder: leaving X-Band #repeater on in van will kill battery after 4 days w/o starting and sub-freezing temps. #hamradio #hamr #hamlessons

— K4CDN (@FoTimePodcast) January 25, 2016

TYT MD-380: Shmoocon Firetalks 2016 Video

I've been reading on this TYT MD-380 hacking stuff, but didn't catch that Travis Goodspeed is an East TN/Knoxville guy.

"Tablet" Problems

During the AFC Championship game, the Patriots had problems with their Microsoft Surface tablets. One of the commentators said they were going to use them with them with cables. So maybe it was wireless problems?  In any case, this is funny:

"They're having some trouble with their Microsoft Surface tablets." "You decide NOW to not call them iPads?" -- Microsoft execs, probably

— Andy Staples (@Andy_Staples) January 24, 2016

Baofeng UV-5RZ: The End

Guess we are done... Baofeng UV-5RZ. They've run out of letters, so no more radios. Sad face goes here.

Thanks to Nate for the link.