Friday, December 1, 2023

Shellbox Apple Watch Shockproof case with watch band

EZANMULL SHELLBOX SHOCK PROOF CASE FOR APPLE WATCH ~ Damage Protection For Apple Watches …. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) How do you protect your expensive Apple Watch from shocks, dirt, water and snow? This is always a concern for most watch wearers. Daily use will inevitably result in an accidental bump, scrape, drop or even worse a bodily fall that can result in expensive damage to the case, or inner workings of the Apple Watch. The SHELLBOX from EZANMULL and distributed exclusively by Amazon may just be the perfect solution. The design exceeds MIL-STD 810G military standards for shocks and drops up to 6.6’ (2 meters) for up to a thousand times. Its waterproof design easily lends itself for protection while swimming, hiking, climbing, skiing, fishing, camping and much more outdoor activity. A 2019 newly designed, IP68 certified, waterproof case for Apple Watch allows the submersion to over 6.6’/2m deep for one-hour. Naturally, the soft watch band and connected case are washable.
Furthermore, an additional single long-length band is included should the wearer have exceptionally wide wrists. This band could also serve as a potential replacement should the band with the slots ever need replacement. A tool to easily remove and replace the band is also included. Unfortunately, additional watch band replacements are not available from the manufacturer, or from other vendors, but then the cost of an entire replacement is very affordable. My long term tests did reveal that the soft watch bands supplied are not too durable over several months of normal use that’ not even submersed in water. They tend to slowly break apart. The break starts with a slight visible tear, a warning to stop wearing the watch with this band. The additional band supplied can be a possible replacement, beyond that there are no replacement bands available. The SHELLBOX is a possible tool to keep your Apple Watch investment safe and well protected. All functions such as Bluetooth, fall notification, heart rate monitor, speaker and microphone are easily accessible as is the seamless control access of all buttons, sensors, including the signature rotating crown dial and tactical side button. A limited “peace of mind” accessory, at a very affordable price!!! MSRP: $25.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/41eLVCl Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at: bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

SHOCKFLO TIRE INFLATOR

ShockFlo Tire Inflator ~ A Portable Air Compressor for Cars, Bikes and Inflatables…. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Inevitably all of us has a need to top off the air pressure in our automobile and bike tires, or other inflatables. Sounds easy, but quite often can become a chore, or the need arises when you’re no where near an air compressor as in a breakdown. My condo association even provides access to a free stationary air compressor which was certainly convenient for cars, but nothing else. Recently they changed out the hose/nozzle connector with something that is very flimsy and useless. This caused me to research for inexpensive, reliable alternatives. The ShockFlo Tire Inflator is a portable air compressor, 12 volt DC air pump for vehicle tires up to 150psi. It features a digital pressure gauge, emergency light, LED touch screen and 5 preset modes for car, bikes and inflatable balls. It easily plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter with its’ ten foot cord. Useful accessory purchase might be the Sparking 10’ fused DC extension cord, bit.ly/3CzInQb, and the Greenco folding step stool that minimizes getting on your knees to access the tire’s nozzle, bit.ly/3NizJe9. This extension cord should make it possible to use the ShockFlo on larger vehicles and non-auto related items outside the vehicle’s perimeter. Also useful might be a universal AC to DC car cigarette lighter socket adapter (inverter) such as the iSaddle SZ-003 https://amzn.to/3twIFGv. ($6.99) This allows you to plug into 115V AC to power the unit in place of the car’s cigarette lighter.
A great feature I really like is the capability of presetting the PSI you wish to inflate. No need to constantly monitor the amount of air being added. The ShockFlo is such a powerful device in a small package that it manages to inflate a tire (195/60/R16) from 0 to 35 PSI in just 4.5 minutes, and from 25 to 35 PSI in only 1 minute. It features an easy to read LED panel that displays real-time tire pressure with an automatically stop inflating. The emergency light has a built-in LED light with 3 modes; emergency, warning, and SOS strobe. The ShockFlo comes with the air nozzle as well as a ball needle and even includes a storage bag and spare fuse. The ShockFlo Tire Inflator is without a doubt a must have device for SUV’s, motorcycles, bikes, balls, swimming rings and much, much more. MSRP: $49.99 (inflator) $10.69 (DC 10’ extension) $13.79 (folding step. Stool) $6.99 (AC ~ DC power inverter) GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: bit.ly/3CG4rso Here’s a quick step-by-step user guide for car tire inflation to cut out and keep in your wallet:

Sunday, October 1, 2023

SIMPLE AND ELEGANT ~ A Smart Watch That Tracks Numerous Vitals, Or Does It???

SIMPLE AND ELEGANT ~ A Smart Watch That Tracks Numerous Vitals, Or Does It? © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Have you been awaiting a smart watch that can do more than the current series of Apple watches? Well SIMPLE AND ELEGANT and other offshore manufacturers think they have the answer. We recently obtained the SIMPLE AND ELEGANT model and put it to the test. This watch claims such features as: accurate blood sugar readings; heart rate monitoring; blood pressure; calorie counting; sleep monitoring; pedometer; distance – just to mention a few of the claimed benefits. Probably the most desirable and most asked for feature would be the ability to accurately measure Glucose, “blood sugar” reading stats at a moment’s notice. The popularity of having such a benefit would be the elimination of having to prick your finger to obtain a blood sample, not to mention eliminating the on-going high cost of supplies required to perform this test. Unfortunately, this watch uses a measurement standard known as MMOI/L. The American market does not use this measurement standard, but rather uses the MG/DI standard. This makes it difficult using this watch for users in the USA to obtain an understandable reading. Yes, one can obtain a conversion chart to aid in interpreting the reading by conversion, but this is certainly not convenient for most users since the concept is to supply measurements on the go to cope with ones busy lifestyles. Furthermore, we noted that the readings were quite often not accurate when compared to the finger prick method. These issues were presented to the manufacturer via one of the suppliers and the reply was that this is what we offer with no changes in the offing. Certainly the USA market would be their largest and should therefore warrant addressing the measurement standard issue not to mention the inconsistent accuracy that is a vital concern for diabetic users. How difficult would it be to make a model for the American market? Other vital sign features lacked consistent accuracy as well, thus making this a questionable product at best. Available in men’s and women’s styles that work with Android & iPhones via Alexa and Bluetooth for answering and making calls. Perhaps this is why Apple still has an Apple version under development? Other features include: smart notification; 24/7 all-around health tracking; 60+ sports modes; IP68 waterproof; O2 % measurement; magnetic charging with their supplied magnetic cable, just to mention a few. An Apple Watch Clone? Is it, or isn’t it? Perhaps it’s best to wait for Apple after all??? Available from: Amazon, Cosmor Tumblr PTE, LTD and other suppliers. MSRP: Amazon $99.00 List – Discounts vary as low as $59.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★ For more information go to: https://bit.ly/3rhvfNL Graphic credits: Google Images; Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com , or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Friday, September 1, 2023

SCAMS, HACKING & MORE ~ What To Look Out For & How To Protect yourself… © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) I’ve written about email scams and hacking in previous columns, but it’s becoming more prevalent, so here’s a bit of an update. Above, you’ll see an email that I received recently. As shown, it looks pretty official and even includes an iCloud logo. I happened to be in Beverly Hills next to an Apple store in the Beverly Centre Mall when I received it. I knew it was bogus after having *checked the available memory on my iPhone, but just to be certain I checked with Apple. Sure enough, I was told that this has become a regular scheme with scammers and to disregard and trash it at once! Since receiving this one I’ve received several others similar in content, but minus the iCloud image logo. If you complied with their instructions you would soon be hacked and could have serious complications with using your iphone and other devices thus requiring re-establishing your account with Apple and maybe even infecting your various other accounts, files and contact information, not to mention giving them access to this info. To *check your available memory on an iPhone simply: Click on SETTINGS> GENERAL> iPHONE STORAGE. This will display how much memory you have used and how much iCloud memory you still have remaining. Android owners, let this be a warning too as you can be just as easily hacked and vulnerable! Other scams to watch for: Shipment being held by USPS, UPS & FedEx, wanting you to contact them immediately to provide info possibly including credit card information; Purchases with a stated dollar amount having been successfully made and asking you to respond to a number, or email link if this is not your purchase. This includes phony merchants claiming to have charged purchases to your PayPal account; Bit coin purchases with a stated dollar amount asking for you to contact them to dispute the transaction if incorrect; The discontinuance of your Amazon Prime Account due to numerous attempts to charge your credit card for PRIME benefits and failing; McAfee subscription late renewal; FaceBook “MESSENGER” ~ Be on the lookout for messenges supposedly sent by friends asking how you are followed by directing you to a link where you can get some sort of financial benefit they claim they received. Simply replying to the message is enough to allow access to your device, and clicking on the link opens the possibilities even further. When hacked on FaceBook, or Messenger you will need to change your password immediately. If you’re unsure how to accomplish this on a specific device, Google for instructions listing specifics such as device type. (You’ll now need to update the new password on other devices that feature FaceBook) When in doubt with requests from merchants, etc., always contact the merchant directly and only use a phone number, or email link that you know is valid & legitimately published. Never use phone numbers, or links included in the suspected email that you received! This is what they want you to do and may result in becoming a hack victim costing you time, money and the sharing of your device’s information. Lastly, delete all such emails immediately! You can remove the displayed MESSENGER APP from your iPhone screen, however it’s not possible to remove the MESSENGER APP itself from it or your other devices. Your iPhone will still show that you have messages in the top upper right corner of the FaceBook screen. If you click on this indicator it will open up MESSENGER, something you do not want to do. Good luck, and always STAY CYBER SAFE! Graphic credits: Amazon & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: http://twitter.com/bskidmore

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

RIKI CUTIE HD MIRROR LED LIGHT ~ A Rechargeable Mirror Light For Many Uses…. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) The RIKI CUTIE HD LED LIGHT is a portable mirror light for many uses. Its size and shape resembles that of a smartphone. Its battery is rechargeable via a supplied USB micro cable that attaches to your phone’s 5 volt charger, or most any other USB port that supports charging devices. The mirror’s built-in twelve recessed LED lights provide three stages of illumination settings producing more than enough light for most applications. Included is a side-mounted retractable finger ring holder, as well as a rear mounted kickstand allowing the mirror light to be functional as a stand-a-lone device in a horizontal, or vertical position, or in a handheld mode. The RIKI CUTIE HD LED LIGHT, is a multi-purpose source for illumination. Women can use it as a compact for on-the-go make up and touchup needs, and thus its “cutie” reference in the name. Men can use it when viewing the rear of electronics to read model numbers, serial numbers, jack and port designations in hard to view places. It’s also extremely useful when servicing appliances and automobiles where components are in hard to see places. I have found the RIKI CUTIE HD LED LIGHT to be an excellent source of light in tight, hard to get to places, or simply for women on the go. Its compact size, 0.38 x 5.56 x 2.75 inches, the size of most smartphones, makes it ideal to carry with you whether in your purse, pocket, or toolkit! In fact many smartphone belt packs will accommodate the light nicely, or you can store it in the supplied soft material pouch. MSRP: $75.00 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/39dnnUB Available at Retail & Amazon. Pricing varies! Graphic credits: Amazon & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Saturday, July 1, 2023

SOLAR POWER BANK FOR SMARTPHONES, AND MORE....

YELOMIN 2000ma ~ Solar Power Bank © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Now that the hurricane season is upon us, and with all the other disasters that Mother Nature seems to put upon us, you’re probably concerned as to how to keep your handheld devices charged and operating when electrical power is lost. Well the YELOMIN 2000ma Solar Power Bank may be the practical solution.
The YELOMIN 2000ma is a 25000mAh high capacity Lithium battery, solar, or USB charged, power source that can be recharged by solar energy, or a conventional AC power USB charger not included, USB charging cable is included. It should be noted that charging time in the solar mode can take several days for a full charge. Charging in the USB mode is about ten hours for a full charge. So, only charge in the solar mode when all power is lost, and keep it topped off when possible. I keep it in the original box and write the date of the last charge on it. The YELOMIN 2000ma has the ability to link up to your devices via common USB cables, not included. It includes two led lights that provide normal flashlight capabilities. It can also be programmed for a steady-slow, or rapid, SOS strobe modes. Five led pilot indicators show the status of the charging effect. The first of these five lights is a mode indicator; a green light when charging by solar and a blue one when charging via a conventional USB wall charger. Two built-in double 5V/2.1A USB outputs allow two devices such as cellphones and iPads to simultaneously be charged. The power bank is waterproof, shockproof and dustproof, and includes a compass making it useful for camping and hiking in addition to being the perfect power source in almost any emergency. The YELOMIN 2000ma is truly a “must have” device to keep your electronics charged in any emergency situation! MSRP: $29.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: bit.ly/3p3vriG Graphic credits: Amazon Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ##

Thursday, June 1, 2023

JAYDEAR COATING, "GERM KILLER" MACHINE, for Smartphones, keys & much more....

JAYDEAR COATING “GERM KILLER” MACHINE ~ A Portable Aromatherapy Cleaner For Small Items…. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Germs and virus are all around us, but how do we minimize the risk of our devices being a carrier? The JAYDEAR COATING MACHINE may just have an easy solution! This unique white sterilizing container accommodates cell phones, keys, small remotes, watches, jewelry, toothbrushes, face masks, dentures, hearing aids, ear buds and much more. Basically, anything that can fit it its 4.1W x 6.9D x 1.1H-inch container can be sanitized.
It utilizes built-in double quartz bulbs and advanced physical technology, UVC, ensuring 360° coverage and maximum effectiveness. No need to flip the contents over either. A four-stage progress indicator gauge indicates the progress of the cleaning cycle which will be completed in a mere 5 minutes. Upon completion the unit shuts itself off and sounds an audible alarm indicating completion. If you like, after completing the cleaning cycle, or at a later time, you can even add an aroma of your choice to make your cleaned device smell wonderful. Just add a few drops of your favorite perfume or cologne, not included, in the aromatherapy inlet located at the bottom, top right inside the container. Press the incense button and wait three more minutes at which point it will automatically shut-off and sound the completion alarm. The JAYDEAR COATING MACHINE is powered by your cell phone’s 5-volt charger, not included, or any other USB device capable of charging devices such as this. A USB cable is included. UVC Lamp technology is known to be a bacteria deterrent. There is no practical, or accurate way to test the effectiveness of this unit other than in a lab with the proper testing procedures and equipment. Therefore, if in doubt, you can always run the cleaner through a second cycle. After all, some disinfection is better than none and the price is certainly right! MSRP: $12.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/3NF89qr Available at Retail & Amazon. Pricing varies! Graphic credits: Amazon & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Monday, May 1, 2023

Eneloop Rechargeable Battery Kit For AAA & AA Batteries

ENELOOP RECHARGEABLE BATTERY KIT (776230) ~ Contains AA & AAA Batteries & A 4-Position Charger…. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) Have you ever asked yourself, “are rechargeable batteries worth considering”? Well, the short answer is yes! They may initially cost twice as much, or more, as single-use disposable batteries, but when you consider that you can literally recharge them hundreds of times it becomes well worth considering. Eneloop, marketed under the SANYO brand name owned by Panasonic, offers a very practical package, item # 776230, containing 8 AA and 4 AAA batteries along with a 4-position charger. This charger makes it possible to charge up to 4 rechargeable batteries, at a time in these configurations; 2 AA & 2 AAA, or 4 AA, or 4 AAA. at a time. Each of the four battery’s individual compartments contain a smaller recessed compartment below the AA compartment to accommodate the smaller sized AAA battery thus maintaining the small physical size of the charger. Batteries must be charged in duplicate pairs. Each pair has its own indicator light that flashes while they are charging . When charging is completed the light remains lit indicating that the charging cycle is complete and continues to remain lit until the batteries are removed. These recharged batteries can retain a storage life of up to 70% over 5 years versus a 50% retained charge of one year for other brands of rechargeable batteries.
To get the most savings, use rechargeable batteries in devices that require frequent battery replacements, such as your computer’s wireless mouse, toys, radios and flashlights. Disposable batteries are better suited for such things as smoke detectors, clocks, TV & stereo remote controls. Savings & quick replacement are the factors to consider in making this a worthwhile investment! REMEMBER, NEVER ATTEMPT TO CHARGE STANDARD DISPOSABLE BATTERIES! BATTERIES MUST STATE THAT THEY ARE RECHARGABLE! YOU COULD CAUSE AN EXPLOSION AND/OR A FIRE!!! MSRP: $39.95 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/3HehIdf Available at Retail & Amazon. Pricing varies! Graphic credits: Amazon & Google Images Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at: bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Saturday, April 1, 2023

HOW'S YOUR SMARTPHONE'S BATTERY HEALTH???

HOW’S YOUR SMARTPHONE’S BATTERY HEALTH …. BOB SKIDMORE (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) CORRESPONDENT © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Does your smartphone’s battery seem to hold less of a charge? You may not need to replace it yet. A simple status check may reveal what, if anything, needs to be done. If you have an iPhone open settings
SETTINGS • CLICK ON BATTERY • CLICK ON BATTERY HEALTH & CHARGING • VIEW MAXIMUM CAPACITY iPHONE SETTINGS SCREEN DISPLAYS
Now, take note of the battery percentage adjacent to the maximum capacity indication. That indicates how the battery has degraded over time. If this number is less than 80%, it’s time to replace the battery. If you have a Samsung Galaxy, a popular Android model, launch settings, tap on battery & device care followed by tapping on diagnostics and then battery status. Samsung will either show the battery status as normal, or display a message that the battery needs replacing. Battery replacement should normally be performed by an authorized service provider. Expect to pay around $70.00 for iPhone battery replacements. Android phone battery replacements may vary in price depending on brands and models. Graphic credits: Google Images & THE GADGETEER Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com. or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore iPHONE SETTINGS SCREEN DISPLAYS

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

SSA DIGITAL DAY CLOCK & WEATHER STATS TOO!

SSA DIGITAL DAY CLOCK ~ A Digital Clock with Weather Stats too…. BOB SKIDMORE - CORRESPONDENT © 2023 (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) The SSA Digital Day Clock/Weather Station, ZN-DP8003, is a unique display promoted as a device that displays the time, temperature, humidity and weather forecasts that are all updated via wi-fi. An eight-inch display available in a black, or a *white housing and is specially targeted to the “senior” market. It’s powered by a supplied AC power supply with a rechargeable memory battery to maintain settings while power is off during power outages. Yes, sounds like the perfect fit for all age groups, but is it what they advertise it to be? Here’s what my tests and experience reveals: The device has many selections, activated by the supplied remote and menu, allowing for various display styles, auto brightness levels, and a display on/off timer when the display’s total darkness is desired. Eight alarm settings are available. Five are programmable and can be set for time and frequency, and three medication reminders for morning, afternoon and evening reminders. The display allows for eight language selections that include English, Spanish, French, Italian, Polish, Dutch, Portuguese and German. Military or standard time mode and temps in either Fahrenheit, or Cellulous are also selectable via the remote and the menu. The type in the menu is a very small font thus requiring the clock to be positioned for close up viewing when making menu selections. This would certainly have to be considered when deciding where to place, or mount it and could certainly be an issue for seniors. Sounds like it’s feature packed, and it is, but what are the downfalls? Since it’s connected to wi-fi the manufacturer claims that the clock will always maintain accurate time, changing to local times zones and daylight-saving time, if applicable, automatically. Unfortunately, I have yet to see this feature perform. Normally for such a feature to exist it needs to be what is known as an Atomic clock. No mention is made that it includes “Atomic” technology. After several months of use the time can be as much as 4 – 5 minutes fast. The Internet connection drifts in and out as visible on the Internet icon featured on the display, upper right’s tiny icon shown in the above photo, when the Internet is connected. It does however update the weather info when connected to the Internet. Yes, I’ve relocated the display, rebooted the modem and the device, but to no avail. This probably indicates a poor-quality Internet receiver, or internal antenna issues. The manufacturer promotes support via email, web and phone, but after numerous requests on my part there is still no reply. They pitch a one-year return warranty and a lifetime support warranty with a prompt response to you within 24 hours. Bottom line, the SSA ZN-DP8003 Digital Day Clock has many performance limitations. If you can live with the issues I’ve outlined it may serve your needs, but I can only give it one star out of five since it does not perform as advertised and lacks good manufacturer’s customer support.
MSRP: $49.99 - *$51.95 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/3FtE2gt Graphic credits: Manufacturer Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## CHECK OUT OUR DAILY TWITTER PAGE FOR THE LATEST GADGET NEWS POSTINGS: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

CES ~ CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW 2023 ~ Highlights

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW 2023 ~ Highlights Of Some Unique Showings …. BOB SKIDMORE (Please note that Google’s BlogSpot, the provider we use to publish this monthly column, has changed the allowable format style. So, if the column’s format looks a bit strange it’s due to Google and BlogSpot, not THE GADGETEER.) CORRESPONDENT © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Each year manufacturers, distributors, retailers and the media get together in Las Vegas for the annual Consumer Electronics Show. CES, as it’s better known, is an opportunity for inventors to test prototype ideas and manufacturers to show soon to be available new gadgets and products to resellers and the media. 2023 was no different, with the exception that some 115,000+ attended compared to only 45,000 last year caused by COVID. Exhibits increased as well with some 3200 exhibitors showing their wares, up from 2200 in the previous year. CES is also a venue where tech announcements are made. One such announcement came from Delta Airlines with word that FREE Wi-Fi is coming February 1st to initially more than 500 domestic planes. This access will use T-Mobile service with equipment supplied by Viasat, a U. S. based satellite broadband provider, and will be limited to frequent flyer, members only, however anyone can become a frequent flyer SkyMiles member for free. There will be no limit on the number of devices that can be connected to this in-flight Wi-Fi service. International flight access is planned sometime in the future. This service feature has no effect on rules applying to cell phone usage aboard flights…. Automobiles and their gadgets were a large part of the show. German manufacturer, BMW, I Vision Dee, sees a time when your car will allow you to program emotive, human-like faces into the car’s grille via E Ink technology. The entire car will be made up of 240 E Ink panels allowing you to change the color and create patterns in seconds. AI, artificial intelligence, technology will be able to speak to you like a friend. Bear in mind that some of these features are a concept, but some could actually find their way to BMW’s actual cars…. There were plenty of gadgets utilizing “Matter”, an open-source, universal smart home protocol supported by companies like Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung and many, many others. This protocol consists of a single, Wi-Fi-based standard that bundles together with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri and SmartThings just to mention a few. Devices using this technology include smart lights, smart plugs, roller blinds and a new SmartThings hub. Later in the year we can expect to see more robot vacuums and smart home cameras incorporating this technology too. Many of these items already exist, but improvements are always coming with upgrades using newly developed technology…. Health technology also had a big presence at CES this year. Two companies, Withings and Vivoo displayed sensors that attach to your toilet bowl to analyze your urine. These sensors can monitor nutrient levels, hormones and much more. Another company, Casana, showed a Heart Seat that’s designed to monitor your heart rate, blood oxygen and blood pressure while you sit on the smart toilet seat during extrication. Nuralogix, announced a process to use AI to measure your blood pressure, heart rate and much more by simply analyzing your face from a selfie. Valencell, showed a blood pressure fingertip sensor without the use of a traditional cuff. Hearing aids were also on display since the FDA’s recent approval of over-the-counter sales of hearing aid devices. Some makes and models can even double as earbuds….
Samsung showed an 8K projector known as The Premiere. It can turn any wall into a screen as big as 150” diagonally. Makes for the possibility of large screen displays in tight areas such as apartments, RV’s and mobile homes. This design simply sits on any small table that’s placed against the screen wall and shoots the image in an upward direction thus displaying the video on the wall…. Samsung also introduced their ICX system known as Ready Care. This system uses sensors to measure a driver’s drowsiness and will employ driver-facing infrared cameras to monitor their status. Naturally, this system is expected to interface with Samsung’s many other products such as Galaxy Watch. While we’re speaking of watches, Citizen displayed a smartwatch that can gauge fatigue…. Without question, CES 2023 had many innovative devices and gadgets on display, too many to highlight here. Please remember, some of these items show what the future may hold, but don’t expect to see all of them in stores any time soon. Who really knows what the future holds? The manufacturers and customer interest will dictate this and thus make it happen! Graphic credits: CES Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore

Sunday, January 1, 2023

Multi-Plug AC Swivel Adapter with USB Charging Ports

MIFASO USB OUTLET EXTENDER ~ AC Multi-Plug Swivel Outlet Adapter With USB charging Ports…. © 2023 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT (Please note that Google the publisher of this column & Blog Spot have changed the publishing format. THE GADGETEER’S column may not conform to normal publishing standards. This is not the fault of THE GADGETEER, but rather that of Google and Blog Spot.) Many times, we are in need of what is commonly known as a cube tap that provides multiple AC power sockets from one wall outlet. MIFASO has taken such devices to a new level. Their model X002TOLY3D outlet extender not only provides 6 outlets, 2 front, 2 Left/side and 2 Right/side, but also permits you to swivel the stack thus creating a 180° rotating series of 6 sockets.
This rotating feature allows you to turn the stack up to 90 degrees left, or right from center, This provides a simple way of positioning an outlet in a very unique position not possible with the old-style cube taps. These sockets provide 1800 Joules of surge protection from electrical spikes and other possible electrical faults. As a bonus MIFASO has incorporated 3 built-in IC technology, high speed USB ports; 2 standard USB A ports (output 2.4A/5V per A port) and 1 USB C port (3A/5V), for powering, or charging USB devices. One should always use any type of multiple socket adapter with caution. The electrical socket that you are plugging such adapters into is connected to a feed from your main electrical panel. Naturally, other sockets with connected devices and light fixtures could be connected to this same circuit. Today’s breaker panels are typically designed with 30-amp circuit breakers. The formula to calculate how much power consumption a particular circuit is using is *30/20/15 amps x 120 volts which equals 3600/2400/1800 watts respectively depending on the breaker’s amp load capacity. So, you need to determine what devices are, or will be plugged in to the circuit you are using and add the total wattage being drawn when they are in use. All devices have tags attached to them that tell you the wattage consumption. Overloading a circuit can cause the breaker to trip, disconnect, and if the breaker is faulty and does not trip, disconnect, could cause a fire. If you are in a building built in the 1960’s the chances, unless you upgraded your electrical panel, are that you have 20, or even 15-amp circuits some of which could use fuses in place of today’s breakers. *The formula above will calculate each circuit’s maximum wattage consumption based on the total maximum amp load of the circuit. Note: These figures are based on the USA electrical system standards. They are not a World-Wide standard which will vary from country-to-country. I have found this adapter to be very useful when needing to place it in a unique position otherwise not possible with other multiple socket adapters. Please be sure to adhere to the wattage overload precautions as noted in the article. Available from Amazon MSRP: Amazon $18.99 GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★ For more information go to: https://amzn.to/3iB3tam Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any products. Articles are strictly his opinion. endorser endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer, or any legal resource. The manufacturer generally supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings. ## Check out Bob’s Twitter page for up to the minute gadget news. Available at: https://twitter.com/bskidmore