Month: October 2017

Garmin debuts its first dive computer, the Descent Mk1, #Garmin #Descent #Mk1 #Diving

Garmin International, Inc. today 31st October 2017 have announced the Descent Mk1, a dive computer offering surface GPS positioning with rich colour mapping. Designed for recreational, technical and free divers, the Descent Mk1 allows divers to plan their underwater adventure right on the watch and use GPS waypoints to automatically mark dive entry and exit points to upload their dive log via the Garmin Connect Mobile app to Garmin’s online dive community. The Descent Mk1 also offers multiple dive modes, 3-axis compass, in-dive data, as well as multi-sport functions like wrist-based heart rate and activity profiles.

 

“No matter what kind of diver you are, the Descent Mk1 is the intuitive dive computer you won’t want to take off.” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “The Descent Mk1 was built by divers, for divers and we are so excited that our passion for engineering purpose-built devices, now supports the passion of underwater explorers.”

The Descent Mk1 supports up to six gases including air, nitrox and trimix. When the diver submerges, the device will automatically start the dive, and when the diver surfaces from the water, the dive automatically ends. While enjoying their dive under the water, users can review useful information such as depth, dive time, temperature, NDL/TTS, ascent/descent rates, gas mix, PO2, N2 loading, decompression/safety stop information, time-of-day, and more on a crisp 1.2-inch colour display. The Descent Mk1 also includes an Apnea mode for recreational and competitive free divers, and Apnea Hunt mode for spear fishers. The diver can switch to the dive compass and additional data pages with the push of a button, or with a quick double tap on the screen.

 

The dive computer utilises the Bühlmann ZHL-16c algorithm with configurable conservatism settings. Choose from three pre-set conservatism settings, or enter custom Gradient Factors.

Selectable tone and vibration alerts help keep divers informed throughout their dive. When worn over a diver’s bare wrist, the Garmin Elevate wrist-based heart rate technology will monitor pulse and track exertion levels. The Descent Mk1 will automatically upload dive logs to Garmin Connect for post-dive analysis. Divers can name their dive, and go back in the app to review dive data such as type of dive, temperature, entry and exit points and more.

 

Topside, the Descent Mk1 features a high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite tracking for map-based surface navigation including ABC (altimeter, barometer and compass) sensors.  Beyond the full range of diving functions, the Descent Mk1 offers a complete feature set of sports/training, fitness and outdoor navigation tools. It comes preloaded with activity profiles for swimming, running, biking, hiking, skiing, rowing, paddle boarding and more. When paired with a compatible smartphone, the Descent Mk1 allows a user to receive and view text messages, emails and smart notifications right on the watch. Users can customise the watch display with free watch faces, apps and data fields from our Connect IQ store.

 

Crafted with premium materials, the Descent Mk1 dive computer will be available in two styles. A stainless-steel bezel with silicone watch band or a premium version with titanium bezel and brushed DLC titanium bracelet. Using QuickFit bands, the diver can easily change between regular and longer bands, for use over thick wetsuits or dry suits. QuickFit bands also allow the diver to tailor their wrist-worn style for any daily activity or special occasion — no tools required. Both models feature a domed sapphire lens for scratch resistance, and a bright, high-resolution full colour 1.2-inch display with LED backlighting, assuring readability in all lighting conditions, above or below the water. The Descent Mk1 is rated for dives of up to 100 meters at EN13319 standard. Divers can enjoy a battery life of up to 40 hours in dive mode, 21 days in watch mode, 12 days in smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS/HR activity mode, and up to 30 hours in UltraTrac mode.

The Descent Mk1 is expected to be available in Q4 2017 for a suggested retail price of €1,025/£999.99 for the stainless-steel and €1,537/£1299.99 for the premium version. To learn more, visit www.garmin.com/descent

 

 

Review – Virtuali-Tee. Bring learning to life. #VR #AR #Kids #Science #Curiscope

Of late the VR scene has died and people are more so focused now on AR which is a different approach but one which requires no headset or cardboard stuck to your bonce but they are very useful ideas and its a shame to see the VR interest dive so much over the last year and being a huge fan of it I hope it turns around, There is though some things going on and its in a good sector to and moving away from the norm. Science and health is a great place to apply both VR and AR and this T-shirt does this and all you need is your smart phone and if you have a VR headset its an added bonus for a much closer look at things.

UNBOXING AND FIRST LOOK

What I really like about this is its simplicity and how much your child and you can learn with just a t-shirt, Yeah a t-shirt, and a smart phone which every household would have these days. It’s also simple to set up and better again it can be shared to a large audience for free which is cost-effective for the masses.I have tested a unique VR headset which was primarily aimed at the classroom before but this cost money and each child had to have the same equipment and that was some 250 quid where this t-shirt is buttons compared to cost.

 

Once you download the app you just go through some simple set-up processes as you would do and its point at the t-shirt and let the magic happen its that simple. You can wear the t-shirt or your child or place it on a doll or bear should neither want to wear it to begin with to get the workings of it going but its really straight forward as seen in videos above and below..

 

 

To simply point your device at an object and get the anatomical working of the human body right there on your phone is quite unreal and it shows how far things have come over the years and its not done in a gorey fashion either as one might think. Its really enjoyable and fun to watch and also educational for any age,not just kids and as mentioned above you can get in deeper by using a VR headset or cardboard offering and jump in deeper and there is a friendly voice over to describe what is going on too which makes it really relaxing and enjoyable.

Compatibility 

iPhone 5s, 6, 6s, 7 or later. iPad 3 (2012) or later. iPad Mini 4 (2015) or later. Samsung Galaxy S5 or later. Note5 or later. A3 or later. J3 or later. Tab A, Tab E, Tab S, Tab Pro. Huawei Honor 6 or later. Mate 7 or later. G7 or later. P6 or later. Nova. Google Pixel. HTC U and One. LG Q, G3 or later. Motorola Droid Turbo, Moto X, G, M, Z, E4 or later. Sony Xperia Z3 or later. M4 or later. C4 or later. E5 or later.

The Virtuali-Tee, the AR t-shirt that retails for £25 ($29)

On launch Ed Barton, CEO & Co-Founder said

“We’re super excited to get this product out to the public at scale and continue our pursuit of bringing magic and wonder into the world around us, literally bringing learning to life. It’s an incredibly exciting time for AR and Mixed Reality and we’re excited to be at the forefront of making these technologies accessible to everybody,”

The new investment has allowed Curiscope to launch The Virtuali-Tee globally and develop further product lines across AR and VR. With the launch of IOS11 and ARKit by Apple, bringing positional AR to over 200m devices, a number of new products will be announced across the final quarter of 2017, further cementing the position of Curiscope as leading innovators in the mixed reality space.

BUY HERE 

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Review – Y-Cam triple layer smarthome security system. #smarthome #tech #Ycam

To install a CCTV camera system the installer must be registered, via the Private Security
Authority, this would involve a site survey in terms of  a) Risk,  b) Contents  c) Building,  d)
Supervision levels.  Setting up of the Smart home security is easy and accessible to all. This is also affordable to install an alarm system DIY style.

A basic understanding of technology is required, while you don’t need to be an electronics / IT / Installation expert to setup. (or PSA registered) Another feature of the alarm is there is are no monthly fees or hidden costs required. (Except if you want to upgrade your package) Setting up this version does not require a Drill or a screwdriver to setup. (wire-free-set-up)

Features:
• Internet-connected smart alarm
• Instant alert notifications
• 8-hour battery backup
• Internal Siren
• Access from anywhere on your smartphone

Technical Specifications:
• Connectivity: 10/100 Ethernet (RJ45 connector) & mobile network (Plus Service
required)
• Power Input: 100 – 240 VAC
• Power Output: 12V = 2A
• Device Capacity: up to 32 seconds & 8 remotes
• Dimensions: 157 x 157 x 30mm
• Weight: 365g
Components:
• Protect Hub -Central control for your Y-cam Protect
• Access Sensor Secures access points in your home
• Motion Sensor Detects movement up to 12m
• Remote Controls your Y-cam Protect system

Y cam app
The app got a 3.4 score from 570 with between 10,000 – 50,000 downloads. Support available at customersupport@y-cam.com. There is option to use with camera technology the burglar alarm has the option to connect this app with cameras but this version model tested does not come with cameras.

This app allows instant alert whenever an alarm is triggers. (if using the Expandable System with cameras you can also see what’s happening, day or night, from anywhere through your smartphone)

Alarm features include:
– Full access from anywhere via the app
– Really simple setup
– Triple Layer™ technology*
– 8-hour battery backup
– Expandable system
– 24/7-line monitoring*
– No contracts or monthly fees required
– SMS and phone call alerts*

Camera features include:
– Full access from anywhere via the app

– Really simple setup
– Free 7 days cloud video storage (30 days also available*)
– See and hear live and playback HD video
– Expandable system
– Indoor and outdoor protection
– See in the dark
– No contracts or monthly fees required

Y-cam Plus service required
Y-cam Protect smart alarm system with Triple Layer Security
Y-cam Protect is an option to provide Triple Layer, self-monitored, smart home security
system. With the use of compatible cameras this provided visual verification to any alerts. For
the Plus Service required for use of pre-installed SIM card and SIM antenna. To Access on a
mobile device an active Internet connection is required.

Optional accessories:
Y-cam Protect Access Sensor Secures doors, windows and access points in your property.
Part of the Y-cam Protect Alarm £19.99
• When connection is broken alarm triggers
• Includes Tamper switch
• Comes with 3M sticky tape to “Stick and Go”
• Really simple set up
• Expandable system, add sensors as you like

Y-cam Protect Motion Sensor Detects motion in your property Part of the Y-cam Protect
Alarm Price: £24.99
• Detects motion in your property
• 100-degree field of view
• Includes Tamper switch
• Comes with 3M sticky tape to “Stick and Go”
• Expandable system, add sensors as you like

 

A key feature of this kit is the Expandable System as the component supplied would offer a basic alarm system but limited to 1 door window switch and 1 motion sensor, Possible there would be a requirement to add in a back-door window sensor, or motion sensor to the system.

The system as tested worked but lacked the punch I would expect without expanding the system
to use cameras as when the alarm went off (set off by accident with a dog) I was unable to tell was this a fault or a real alarm. If getting the system possible look to get additional sensors and cameras. The setup is easy and saves allot of expense getting professional installation companies to fit. Support is available via London Headquarters if required. This comes with a 30 day no quibble money back guarantee.

Another feature of the Protect Alarm is Y-Cam’s ‘Triple Layer’ security. (To enable the ‘Triple Layer’ security you need to choose a package) This is provided in the form of an 8-hour battery backup should the power fail, internet backup should the mobile signal fail and lastly SIM card backup should the internet fail. So even if the very worst happens you will still get notified of an intrusion.

Looking towards the video storage is great as modern burglars would look to find the current storage system and remove resulting in some camera systems of little use, the cloud storage would prevent this resulting in a professional system at fraction of the cost of other systems.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Protect-System-Built-BatteryBackup/dp/B06WP9M5SV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1508160822&sr=8-1&keywords=Ycam%2BProtect&th=1
Price: £149.99

 

 

 

Review – Nokia 5 TPU gel case transparent Black from @TerrapinCases #Nokia5

Another case in for review for the Nokia 5 is the TPU Gel Transparent case for the Nokia 5. These are my preferred type of case for a smartphone which absorb knocks and bumps better than full on hard cases from my experience and not only that they do not add much when it comes to thickness either and also light. They last quite a while and also can be easily rubbed down with a damp cloth too and with this colour in particular it should not go off colour in a rush either,check out the image gallery and video below and feel free to ask any questions in the meantime.. Once again thanks to Terrapin Cases for dropping this over to check out.

Custom designed to fit like a glove

This superbly crafted case is custom designed to fit the Nokia 5 perfectly. Precision cut-outs for camera and ports mean you can take photos, charge your phone and listen with headphones without removing the case. All buttons can be used with ease.

Super slim

Made from premium protective TPU Gel, this Nokia 5 case provides bulk free protection whilst maintaining the original design aesthetic of your phone. It is completely form-fitting and provides subtle but robust protection.

Advanced protection

The Nokia 5 case delivers advanced protection against drops, scratches, dirt and dust, and features a raised lip around the screen and camera lens to prevent surface contact. Feel assured that your phone is well protected and will keep its brand new condition for life.

Extra grip

Not only will the Nokia 5 case protect your device in the event of a drop, but it also provides extra grip to make the phone more secure in the hand and prevent it sliding from slippery surfaces.

Easy to apply and remove

The Nokia 5 case can be fitted in an instant and is easy to remove if required.

BUY HERE 

Review – XTORM USB-C Discover 1,7000mAh powerbank. #tech #XTORM

I have gone through quite a few powerbanks over the years and they are a lifesaver in some instances and often the case I would  have maybe more than one with me when travelling or going to events or conferences. Given the range that is available out there today there is plenty of choice for users that require them or suffer from battery anxiety which is still a problem, even some of the todays new smartphones come with underwhelming battery power but the likes of this power bank eliminate battery anxiety and that moment of thought will my battery see me through this current event or presentation you might be at.

Unboxing the XTORM USB – C XB202 – POWERBANK

OK -So its a powerbank and it keeps your devices charged even your laptop there is that much on board so what else do you get…

Detachable micro USB cable.

Quick Charge 3.0 technology to charge up to 4 times faster.

Auto stop charging.

3 outputs to charge 3 devices at the same time.

Led light battery indicator.

USB-C port to charge MacBooks and laptops.

 

The Power Bank Discover enables you to charge your mobile devices anywhere and anytime. This Power Bank has a 17000mAh internal battery. This provides enough power to charge a smart phone at least EIGHT TIMES  or a tablet/MacBook at least TWICE. It is also possible to charge THREE DEVICES at once. What’s more, its rubber finish gives this back-up battery a streamlined, stylish look. The finish on this unit is what I like and its robust,feels good looks good and will last you unlike other can and it will take plenty of drops again where some will fail and spill the contents on the ground with splinters of casing,particularly those plastic finished ones.

Another real bonus here its 3.0 quickcharge,if you have a device that supports it you don’t have to wait long to charge your device which is vital for most,myself included as often I put things on the long finger given I have the requirements at hand nearly all the time.

Ports and Charging.

The USB-C port has 5V / 3A input and output and works with USB- C to USB cable and USB C to USB cable. You can charge current phones like the Galaxy S8/S8P Blackberry KEYOne and Note 8 for some examples The Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports support devices with no less than 12Volts, and unsupported 5V / 2.4A equipment. The other USB port has 5 Volts – 2.4A maximum output.

 

The LED light on the front is a nice touch and simple this light also acts as the power on/off key too and this indicates the status of power left indicated in a circle with lit up LED lights beneath, The only drawback with this unit is its weight and charge time which is around 7/8 hours but they are small caveats to pay for really good solid piece that will take plenty of knocks and have surplus power in your backpack should you be one that travels often or attends events. Like I said I have many powerbanks at my disposal this one is now my main means of power and the old ones will be disposed of now that I sport several devices with USB – C and standard charged devices are fading away as daily drivers.

BUY HERE 

Android update 7.1.2 now available in Ireland for the Nokia 5 #Nokia5 #Ireland

If you own a Nokia 5 check it now ours has just got the update and this means its rolling out around the world too. This also has the latest October updated built in which I have been watching for and yet has to arrive on the Nokia 3. The update is big coming in at 690MB and offers improved system stability and improved user interface enhancements. Updates have been fairly consistent albeit late in the month but its good to see them coming in regardless.. Our Nokia 5 is the (TA – 1024)

 

Discover Mars from your on home with #MarsWalk #VirtualReality #VR #Space

One to look for given the quiet time with VR of late,this is quite good and for those who are into all things space and with the talk of travelling to Mars sometime in the future it will give you an insight. The app is quite large so ensure you use your Wi-Fi to download. Lockheed also have an app they launched in April 2016 called Explore Mars and just like that app this one is well presented and looks great to and again a really nice app to have stored on your device. I have tried the app out and it really is nice and if you are into something like this its a must have and its free to download on both Android and iOS right now. You can use any compatible Head Mounted or Google Cardboard headset then hop out of the capsule and go on a journey and collect items that have to be returned

 

FEATURES:
– Walk the surface of Mars and explore the landing sites for InSight, Viking and Curiosity
– Experience dust storms at the Northern Crater
– Observe InSight and Viking as they gather information about Mars
– Visit one of the famous Viking landers that landed more than 40 years ago
– Follow Curiosity as it navigates the red surface collecting samples

 

Guest Review – The Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact by Liam Burke. #Sony #Xperia #XZ1Compact

At techbuzz we like to hear your thoughts on your shiny new tech and we welcome guest reviews on site and today one of our long time readers Liam Burke has sent us his thoughts on his own Sony Xperia XZ1 compact we too will be sharing our thoughts on this and the compact version in the coming weeks. Liam is also very helpful on forums too with mobile phones with tech support. We also have both devices in house to check out and you can see the unboxings below and first look..

 

Coming from the Xperia Z5 Compact the Xperia XZ1 Compact is a great upgrade, keeping the same size screen as the Xperia Z5 Compact but lighter. I love the form factor of the Xperia XZ1 compact, it fits perfectly in the hand it feels like a premium handset with its unibody that is  made from glass fiber woven plastic, which is both strong and lightweight and its rounded edges it feels very ergonomic.
The fingerprint scanner on the side of the phone is a great feature as it is super easy to unlock the phone with the added security of using your fingerprints. Android 8.0 Oreo is running on the phone out of the box which adds improvements over Nougat, I didnt find any lag in the phone when I was using it.
It improves on all aspects from the Xperia Z5 Compact.
Even though the 2,700 mAh battery is the same capacity as the Xperia Z5 Compact, the latest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 835 optimizes the battery and  I was able to get 2 days usage out of the handset. The front of the phone has Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for added protection with scratch resistance as well as having stereo speakers and a led for notifications. I found the 4.6 inch 720p HD display bright  and vibrant the phone does a great job of reproducing colours as its using the technology thats in Sony Bravia TVs for the image processing. Its rated IP68 water-resistant so it can withstand an immersion in fresh water (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes) so you dont need to worry about it getting wet in the rainy Irish weather.
Camera Tech
Rear Camera:

Xperia XZ1 Compact also features Sony’s latest 19 MegaPixel Motion Eye camera that has the capability to shoot super slow motion video at 960fps.

The rear of phone has a Laser to help with Autofocus and the predictive hybrid autofocus which helps you get ultra-fast focusing even in low light conditions,  I found this really useful to as I was able to capture shots of people at the right time, instead of being just a second too late. Burst mode is a great feature as it shoots at 10 fps while always autofocusing on each shot, you can take pictures of someone/something in action and select the best shot. Having a dedicated camera button is a great feature for a camera phone, the camera app launches up really fast so it makes it easier to get the right shot.
Front Camera:
It has a 120 degree wide angle 8 MegaPixel camera for even better selfies, the camera has an option for group or single person selfie on the main camera screen, so you take great selfies.
The screen also flashes just before taking your selfie to brighten up low light selfies.
The high five feature is really handy so you don’t need to touch the phone screen, the camera recognizes that your doing a high five and automatically takes a selfie without you having to press the capture button.
Create 3D scans using the 3D creator tool which gives you the option to scan four modes: Head, Face, Food and Freeform Then you share these scans on Social Media, create 3D stickers or as avatars and even print them on 3D printers.
For Music.
The Xperia XZ1 Compact has Hi-Res audio support, improved Stereo speakers from the Xperia Z5 compact with 50% more sound pressure , Enhanced Bluetooth Streaming with Bluetooth 5.0.
Digital Noise Cancelling with up to 98% exterior noise reduction, I used my MDR-NC31E headphones and its great for cancelling background noise and with the Hi-Res audio the sound was excellent.
The sound during calls and playing music from the front speakers is improved over the speakers on the Xperia Z5 Compact.
Other Features:
Updated Xperia Home launcher with app shortcuts that allows you to bring a context menu of app shortcuts when you long pressing on a compatible app,
So the Google Drive app can show options for uploading, scanning or searching your files without having to go into the app.
Micro-sd support, so no need to worry about storage issues. USB Type-C with increased data speed transfer and also its reversible so no fiddling with the cable to connect it.
Another nifty feature is that you can charge other devices from the phone too.
Playstation 4 Remote Play compatible so you can connect to your PS4 in your home.
Smart Cleaner is a handy Xperia app that cleans up unused apps.
There are only a few differences between the Xperia XZ1 Compact and its bigger brother the Xperia XZ1 besides the HDR screen and higher internal battery and memory.

Double Unboxing – Sony Xperia XZ1 and XZ1 compact. #Sony #Xperia #XZ1 #tech

Our new Sony devices have arrived and we will have today a quick unboxing and walkaround of both devices side by size and talk some little about them. It has been a while since I have used Sony as my daily driver but the last experience was great and hope that experience continues with the new offerings at hand here today and I look forward to testing them out and their capabilities. These are now available to buy in Ireland so you should check with your provider and if you have any questions in the interim feel free to ask while we take these two devices on a test run for the next fortnight.

The Xperia XZ1 Compact may be small, but it packs a powerful punch. With the latest Sony innovation, a Motion Eye camera with Super slow motion and a premium audio experience – everything becomes wow.

The Xperia XZ1 Compact Motion EyeTM camera with Super slow motion and Predictive Capture lets you see moments you’ve never seen before.

With a 120° field of view,you can fit more people and scenery into the shot. Switch from super-wide to wide in a single click.