brendanlahert - techbuzzireland.com - Page 13

Review – The Sony Xperia L3. For the money you can’t complain. #Sony #XperiaL3

The Sony Xperia L3 is a 5.7” HD display resolution smartphone with a comfortable feel. The smartphone is hard to distinguish from most of the major brands in terms of size and feel. The thickness is fractionally bigger than similar other brands of phones, the corners are comfortably rounded as compared to some of the older Sony phone making it comfortable to hold.

Texting in one hand is possible as the phone is not the size of a phablet. The weight in a pocket at 156 g is comfortable. The smartphone as you would expect from Sony is strong made of Corning Gorilla Glass 5. The phone has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor on the right edge, which is used to lock the phone and allows contactless card payments via NFC. The phone has a single USB Type-C port at the bottom of the phone.

Key specifications

· 5.7in, HD+ IPS display, 18:9 aspect ratio

· Quad-core 2GHz MediaTek Helio P22 processor

· 32GB of eMMC storage (expandable via microSD up to 128GB)

· 3GB of RAM

· 13MP rear camera (f/2.2), 2MP (f/2.4)

· 8MP selfie camera (f/2.0)

· 3,300mAh battery

· Unlock in a touch, with built-in fingerprint sensor.

Display:

The display is a 5.7″ HD+ with 18:9 ratio which supports image formats: JPEG, GIF, BMP, WebP, WBMP, DNG This Supported video formats: MPEG-4 Video, H.263, H.264, H.265, VP8, VP9. The display is not a 4K screen as seen on the high-end models. When watching most movies, TV shows and photos this is not noticeable on the 5.7″ HD screen, when watching in a darker environment this display may not be a bright as on more expensive phones.

Memory and storage:

3GB RAM 32GB eMMC internal memory3 Up to 512GB microSD card

The Ram on the phone is the first sign this model is not a high-end phone which may not be noticed by everyday users, intense power hungry users may notice when using multiple apps simultaneously there may be a lag. Standard Android apps take approx. 300MB of RAM each ensuring the first app works ok but as you keep app open or don’t power down the phone, the Ram comes into its own, E.g. YouTube, WhatsApp, Spotify, Twitter, could take nearly 1 GB. Once you include Gmail, Maps Google photo, nearly 2 GB is used which results in software swapping the app. Normal users won’t notice any lag. Power hunger apps when tested, continually opening a large number of apps and swapping between results in a lag not noticed on the range of more expensive phones.

Operating System:

The Sony Xperia L3 comes with Google Android™ Oreo4 or Android 8.0 Initial release date 2017 with 9.0(Pie) released in 2018, now going on version 10 Android Q. the older operating software on this phone works solid but won’t excite.

Camera

The Xperia L3 is fitted with a dual-camera setup on the back of the phone, the rear camera is a 13MP aperture (f/2.2), 2MP (f/2.4) with a front camera 8MP (f/2.0) which is ideal as a selfie camera. As one would expect, Sony experience in camera and display stands out to give clear and crisp images. This model does not support High Dynamic Range. HDR which allowed the camera to process photos slightly differently than normal in order to capture greater detail from bright and dark areas in your photo. The software on the camera does not provide a great zoom option but the Bokeh-effect provided excellent portrait shots. The Video option shoots in Full HD (there is no 4K)

Battery :

The phone comes with a Non-removable Li-Ion 3300 mAh battery with a fast battery charging USB power delivery. Sony uses the Xperia Adaptive Charging”, which monitors your phone as it charges, this is to ensure the battery doesn’t degrade quickly. Sony data states a few minutes of charge should provide up to 2 hours of use before the battery dies. The 3300 mAh battery compares well to phones costing 3 times the amount e.g. Huawei P30 Pro with 4.200 mAh battery, Samsung Galaxy S10 at 4,100mAh, Apple does not disclose battery power but Xs has a 3.174 mAh, the Pixel 3 XL has a 3430 mAh battery.

Image samples..

1 / 12

Setup

The setup is standard android setup with the annoying request to accept various T&C, this is the same in budget and high-end phones.

Conclusion

The Xperia L3 is a mid-range phone but has the look and feel of a more expensive phone. The Sony Xperia L3 has a fingerprint scanner on its side and dual cameras on its back. The operating system has been tried and tested to ensure it works but lacks a punch as seen on top end phones, the use of basic Apps work quickly and smoothly but can lag if multiples apps are open and opened with the unit not powered down or closed. The smartphone came with a variety of sensors, Accelerometer, Ambient light sensor, eCompass Fingerprint sensor, Magnetometer Step counter, Step detector, Significant motion detector and Proximity sensor. This is an ideal model in terms of design, a widescreen for watching a movie, reasonably good dual-lens camera with software that works well.

Review – The Doro 7060 big button phone. #Doro #Doro7060 #Tech

This is not your typical phone, this has a flip with a 2.8 inch screen on the inside, the phone has large manual keys without the screen. The size of the phone fits nicely into your pocket shorter and thicker than most smart phones. The phone is physicality designed strong and easy to use with large buttons. The material used has a soft touch coating with a good grip. They are designed for the elderly and persons with disabilities, they can be used by users that require a smart device without the complications of functionality.

Charging & Battery:

I am not a fan of propriety chargers, but this is a different one. This comes with your standard android charger, with the option of a pod. The phone comes with a pod charger with the added feature of allowing to connect directly via a USB charger lead the phone. The phone came with a removable 1350mAh Li-ion battery which has a talk time (up to hours) 11 hours and a standby of up to 500 hours. The battery takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge. The charging and battery are a real positive to this phone.

2 / 14

Powered by Kaois:

The phone is not an android phone rather powered by KaiOS just like the recently launched Nokia 8110, KaiOS, is a web-based mobile operating system that is based on Linux kernel that “merges the power of a smartphone with the affordability of a feature phone” In market share study results announced in May 2018, KaiOS beat Apple’s iOS for second place in India, while Android dominates with 71%, albeit down by 9%. KaiOS is now 2nd most popular mobile OS after Android in India as iOS drops to third. KaiOS is a contemporary mobile operating system targeted for feature phones.

Setup:

The set up is standard on the phone, this was less complicated than a typical Android phone which asks to accept a variety of T&C. The setup is easy but connecting the phone to your Wi-Fi required the password entered. The basics of putting in a Wi-Fi password is not as easy as we have become familiar with smart phones, putting in a capital letter, then back to a small letter etc on a button phone it takes time to get use to. The phone signal and audio quality were excellent with the added feature of when viewing a call, opening the flip allowed the calls to be answered with no need to press additional buttons, closing the flip ends the call. Something we have seen before on older clamshell or flip devices.

Warranty:

This product is guaranteed for a period of 24 months and for original accessories for a period of 12 months (such as the battery, charger, charging cradle or handsfree kit)

3 / 16

Conclusion:

Typically, on smart phones the Chipset, Ram and Cameras are the main areas looked at for smart phones. This phone has a nostalgic feel but the specification on this phone is not the primary logic to purchase. This has the main feature you would expect in a smart phone, camera, (albeit a poor camera at 3 MP) the option of storage of using a 32GB Micro SD memory card, calculator, wakeup alarm, FM-radio, key tone, calendar with reminder, backlit keypad, ICE (In Case of Emergency) are some of the features.

The FM radio is good to see on the phone. The unique feature of the assistance button allows easy access to contact a predefined help number should you need help. The hearing aid compatible is great to see on a phone for those that require this option. The phone can use Google maps, YouTube with a great battery life. This is a phone designed with large buttons and designed for the elderly and persons with disabilities. Alternatively, this can be used by the young or those that want a basic easy to use phone that works getting away from the current society of always on.

Main features:

GPS
HAC (HEARING AID COMPATIBLE)
EMAIL
CAMERA RESOLUTION (MEGAPIXEL) 3Mp
INTERNET
TORCH
VISUAL RING INDICATOR
ASSISTANCE BUTTON
SPEAKERPHONE
LOUD AND CLEAR SOUND
STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL
4G

Review – The HyperX Pulsefire Core (RGB Gaming Mouse) #Gaming #HyperX #RGB

The HyperX Pulsefire Core delivers the essentials for gamers looking for a solid, comfortable, wired RGB gaming mouse. The Pixart 3327 optical sensor gives players precise, smooth tracking with no hardware acceleration, and has native DPI settings of up to 6200 DPI. The Pulsefire Core mouse has textured side grips for a comfortable, non-slip grip and its symmetrical shape is suitable for both palm and claw grips. Customise lighting, DPI settings and macros for 7 programmable buttons with HyperX NGenuity software and set your mouse up just the way you want it. The large skates on Pulsefire Core help deliver accurate aiming by giving you a smooth, controlled glide as you move the mouse around your mat.

Features

Pixart 3327 optical sensor with native DPI of up to 6,200
Comfortable symmetric design
Seven programmable buttons
Easy customisation with HyperX NGenuity software
Large mouse skates for smooth, controlled gliding

Specifications

Mouse

Ergonomics: Symmetrical

Sensor: Pixart PAW3327

Resolution: Up to 6,200 DPI

DPI presets: 800 / 1600 / 2400 / 3200 DPI

Speed: 220 IPS

Acceleration: 30G

Buttons: 7

Left/right buttons durability: 20 million clicks

Backlight: RGB (16,777,216 colours)

Light effects: 1 lighting zone and 4 brightness levels1

On-board memory: 1 profile

Connection type: USB 2.0

Polling rate: 1000Hz

USB data format: 16 bits/axis

Cable type: Braided

Weight (without cable): 87g

Weight (with cable): 123g

Dimensions

Length: 119.30mm

Height : 41.30mm

Width: 63.90mm

Cable length: 1.8m

Key Features

Pixart 3327 optical sensor

The solid Pixart 3327 sensor provides precise tracking without hardware acceleration and supports native DPI settings of up to 6200.

Seven programmable buttons Pulsefire Core features seven programmable buttons with switches that provide crisp tactile feedback and are rated for 20 million clicks.
Easy customisation with HyperX NGenuity software

Create macros, customise RGB lighting and DPI and save it to the Pulsefire onboard memory

Customisable RGB lighting

Add a personalised touch of RGB style to your setup.

Overall view

The HyperX Pulsefire Core RGB Gaming Mouse is a precise smooth moving and comfortable mouse. This mouse is a fast mouse with allot of advanced features. This can be used in an office as the lights are not that distracting with the option of selected any colour using the software. The 7 controllable buttons is ideal for any type of gamer and even better for streamers and professional gamers as the mouse does have a bit of flash to catch their audiences eye as they play and stream. The 2 year warranty and the technical support is also a plus. This mouse would be better for higher up gamers as it is still a bit pricey for a mouse at €49.99.

Review – HyperX Alloy Core RGB keyboard. #HyperX #Keyboard #Tech #RGB #Gaming

The keyboard is crafted with a durable, reinforced plastic frame; the Alloy Core RGB was constructed for stability and reliability for gamers who want a keyboard that will last and not move in the process of gaming. The soft-touch keys have a tactile feel, yet keys are tuned to be quiet. The keyboard is spill resistant, tested to withstand 120ml of liquid, so beverage accidents while gaming are not a worry to gamers and gaming anymore.

Featuring HyperX’s signature radiant light bar and smooth, dynamic RGB lighting effects, the HyperX Alloy Core RGB is ideal for gamers looking to enhance their keyboard’s style and performance. The keyboard has six different lighting effects and three brightness levels. This allows a high attention viewing with a keyboard that can balance both brilliance and budget.

Negatives

Must download software before able to work on pc/Laptop
If typing normal E.g. (Word or excel) the lights on can be very distracting if the flashing element is on.
Not suitable for an office as the lights would distract other workers and possibly the worker himself/herself.
Not suitable for people with dyslexia/learning difficulties as 3 out of the 6 functions have red in them, this makes it difficult for people with the disability to read and see.
Not wireless.

Positives

Smooth and reliable keyboard
Very cool and flashy
Very easy to use once the software is installed
Very good for gaming purposes with an easy layout which can be edited.
Locking the keyboard without having to lock your whole system.
Very resistant to wear and tear as the keyboard letters and numbers are lights so it is more difficult for them to rub off like standard keyboards would.
Spill resistant which is a big thing among games both pro and armature
2 year warranty

Overall view

This keyboard is comfortable to use on the wrist and smooth to type on. The keyboard is sturdy and will not move when typing or gaming due to weight and grip. This would not break easily with the reinforced plastic as some gamers have a high tempo use. The HyperX Alloy Core RGB keyboard is visually appealing and eye catching which is great for gamers who like to stream online and show off their devices and Pcs and how good they look. The one button press to change the colours makes the keyboard versatile in its use allowing an easy visual variety. The keyboard would be perfect for a new pro gamer who does not want to break the bank. The braided cable looks and felt strong while catching viewers’ attention. The five zones colours would suit many gamers with a PC, the spill proof is a bonus ensuring long lasting gaming from a solid multimedia keyboard.

Price: £49.99 –BUY HERE

Review – Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi. #Devolo #WiFi #Mesh #Tech #Home #Office

The Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi box is heavy with typical Devolo features clearly visible on the box. The three sockets are heavy and solid. The most noticeable feature of the kit is the plug socket allowing a separate plug to be plugged into the socket. The traditional socket means that you lose a wall socket when using a power extender. The socket is physically wider than a typical plug which may result in two plugs not fitting into the same socket. The Devolo focuses on magic but the technology via the home plugs allows broadband via the plug socket and then Wi-Fi to the other area expanding the home. The Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi Powerline used the power cable in the property to carry the data around your home or office.

Box Contains:

2 x Devolo magic 2 Wi-Fi add-on adapters
1 x Devolo magic 2 LAN add-on adapter
1 x Ethernet
User guide

The Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi features:

Powerline
Speeds up to 2400 Mbps
Over distances up to 500 metres
Security – with 128-bit AES Powerline encryption

An integrated electrical socket
A PLC button with LED status display
A Wi-Fi button with LED status display
Four internal Wi-Fi antennas,
Two gigabit network connectors
A reset button (next to the network connectors).
Enchanting mesh Wi-Fi: Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi transmits data amazingly fast via the power lines thanks to the latest G.hn-standard, setting up its magical Wi-Fi umbrella with Wi-Fi ac, at any power socket
Compatible with all routers, Devolo Magic adapters and HomeGrid Forum certified products; dLAN Powerline adapters and other HomePlug AV products are not supported
Magical Internet from your wall socket: Incredible transmission speeds of up to 2400 Mbps and a range of up to 500 metres characterise the Devolo Powerline adapters;
Enchantingly integrated: You can use Devolo Magic two Wi-Fi to connect mobile and stationary terminal devices quickly with the home network – wirelessly or via two Gigabit LAN connections on the housing
Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi is compatible with all routers, Devolo Magic adapters and G.hn-based products.

4 / 12

Setup:

The basic setup is easy; plug in the Devolo Magic Lan directly to the router, initially plug the other plug in the same room and allow the light to change to white (max 3 minutes). The initial setup requires the home plug connected to a max of 10 meters and wait for a white light. Press the home button and press the WPS button on the router within 2 min. Take a note of the Wi-Fi code on the back of the 2 Wi-Fi add-on adapters for use afterwards. Once the setup is done the individual Wi-Fi add-on adapters can be moved to other sockets in the house or garden. The plug socket must be on the same supply line and cannot be used with a surge protection extension socket.

Search for the Wi-Fi as normal and enter the Wi-Fi code on the back on the plugs. Once the setup has been completed the display is a white light which is better than a red light which is less distracting. Once set up, the speed was increased in the furthest bedroom. One of the Wi-Fi add-on adapters was placed in an external shed, this resulted in Wi-Fi signal at the end of the garden which normally had no Wi-Fi coverage. The internet speed increased with increased stability. The speed was listed as 2400 Mbps with a range of 500 m.

Software: Devolo Cockpit 5.0.1 – Windows

The software is optional and not required for normal use but if used it can give the option to use advanced features which you would expect in a business environment, this can enhance the security in your network. The setup of the software was not as straight forward as the initial setup. The initial setup required my antivirus to change and a reboot to pick up the Wi-Fi add-on adapter on the network.

The basic setup is easy for use with a standard setup to extend the coverage in a home. The advance (optional) setup in the software Devolo Cockpit had a few setup issues. The unit was connected in areas in the home that traditionally would have dropouts when watching Netflix and WhatsApp videos. These areas normally had no coverage or limited coverage. When using the Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi add-on adapters the coverage was excellent, validated with speed test sites getting a similar speed as connected beside the router. The Wi-Fi add-on adapter was connected to an IP CCTV, the connection was instant with no manual adjustment required, allowing IP video feeds to transfer clearly without latency. The Devolo kit will only expand the range of the current broadband from the router. If the Broadband speed is poor to the router / home the Wi-Fi add-on adapter will only expand the signal and not improve this.

The use of the Powerline cable within a property that has thick walls, floors, ceilings or foil back stud partitions block the signal and is overcome using the Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi box which used the internal wiring of the property. The Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi box has the added advantage of creating a new Wi-Fi hotspot or a wireless Mesh network which extends the range of the broadband. This is a genius bonus over the lower range having the extended Wi-Fi. The Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi has an advantage of allowing the use of a pass through plug but can be classed as large visually out of place in a home setting.

The initial cost of the unit may be classed as expensive but when struggling with poor broadband in an area, the Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi solves this problem effectively and easily. Technically this product does exactly as one would expect from a quality brand with a big thumbs up.

Review – The iStorage diskAshur DT2 4TB Hard Drive. #Tech #GDPR #iStorage

The iStorage diskAshur DT²is an external hard disc drive with a difference. (is an encrypted desktop hard drive) The box advised designed and developed in the Uk with military-grade encryption with pin authenticated. The box made no mention of GDPR but compatible. The 4 TB HDD had a number keypad on the HDD. The diskAshur DT² was a 4 TB HDD which was heavier than expected, the unit had a 13-button keypad which was soft to touch. Built with wear resistant epoxy coated keypad. The keypad provides ultra-secure, PIN authenticated, USB 3.1 desktop harddrive. The enclosure is full aluminium with plastic end caps, the unit is encrypted desktop hard drive. The manufacturers advise “If you don’t have the pin code there is no access to the disc”

Box Contains

Drive, Universal Mains Adapter, USB cable & Quick Start Guide

Features:

Common Criteria EAL4+ ready on-board secure microprocessor
Real-time military grade AES-XTS 256-bit Full-Disk Hardware Encryption
FIPS PUB 197 Validated Encryption Algorithm (10X faster than USB 2.0)
Encryption keys are always encrypted while at rest
Brute Force Hack Defence Mechanism
Tamper Proof
Immune to BadUSB
Epoxy coated wear resistant keypad
No speed degradation – as fast as any non-encrypted USB 3.1 HDD
Desk Lock Slot
All components covered with a layer of super tough epoxy resin
FIPS 140-2 Level 3 (US), NCSC CPA (UK), NLNCSA BSPA (NL) & NATO Restricted level Certified
No software or drivers required – 100% Hardware Encryption
Read-Only (Write Protect) & Read/Write modes
PIN authenticated – Supports Admin and User Independent PINs 7-15 digits in length
Self Destruct Feature
Drive Reset Feature for easy redeployment
Super Speed USB 3.1
Unattended Auto-Lock feature
No admin rights needed
OS & Platform Independent – Works on any device with a USB port

The unit is not portable (required to be plugged in at the mains) with the only factor that looks out of place was the 12 v charger. The charger came with a variety of pin types allowing use in a high number of countries, the charger while came with a lot of country adapters looked cheap and the socket looks like could be a mechanical point of failure. The rest of the unit looked strong and sturdy.

Warranty: – 2-year warranty

Setup and use:

There is no setup required, plug the USB lead into your laptop and charger into the mains socket, the diskAshur connect to the laptop. The diskAshur DT2 used Super-fast USB 3.1 but will work on older version of USB standards. The LED will light up with different colours on the status Once connected enter the pin code and the HDD work as normal. The Pin code is required to be changed from the default, once changed the HDD cannot be accessed without the pin code. The security has numerous certification encryption to prevent access.

GDPR compliance:

The diskAshur DT² is GDPR compliant in that if personal data is lost/stolen in the diskAshur DT², the HDD “render the personal data unintelligible” from the data breach, the data is still secure even if the hard drive is removed from its enclosure. This ensures personal data is secure and GDPR Implementation compliance “appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk, including…encryption of personal data” (Article 32, Security of processing). In the event of a data breach, the organization is not required to inform individuals of the breach if measures that “render the personal data unintelligible” where in place, including encryption (Article 34, Communication of a personal data breach to the data subject).

Conclusion:

We have tested diskAshur in the past with great pleasure ease to use and secure. The diskAshur DT2 would not look out of place in a bond movie but works as a standard external hard drive. The unit is solid which an excellent amount of storage on the unit. The product looks strong and secure only let down by what looks like a cheap 12 v charger and socket to the main HDD. The encryption is to military standards which would ensure GDPR compliance in the event the HDD was lost or stolen. The diskAshur DT2 is NCSC CPA, FIPS 140-2 Level 3, NLNCSA BSPA and NATO Restricted Level certified encrypted desktop hard drive.

The iStorage diskAshur DT²is available in size from 1TB to 14TB ensuring the most size of data is covered. This storage may be classed as expensive in terms of standard external HDD, but in the event of loss or theft of the data, this HDD could save a company’s reputation and immense fines. This is a product that is a requirement for any business that required data to be backed up or moved from site to site that requires secure data transfer. This is a product that will grow exponential in sales once the Data Protection Commissioner enforces fines regarding GDPR.

https://istorage-uk.com/product/diskashur-dt2/ £339.00 each

Review – Amazon Echo Plus 2nd Gen. #Amazon #IoT #Tech #Alexa

The Amazon Echo Plus (2nd Gen) came in a plain box with all the features clearly visible on the box with the Amazon logo on the box. Alexa is listed on the packaging which is the key to using the many features on the kit. The Far-field Voice control stood out on the kit. The Echo plus was a wide cylinder with cloth fabric, This unit came in white colour but available black or grey,. The Echo plus does not look out of place in any room in a house. The buttons are visible on the top of the unit to manual adjust setting while these are not used much due to the hand’s freespeaker, the 7 dots/holes on the top of the unit are 7 separate microphones. The bottom has a screw socket to allow the speaker to be placed on a tripod stand.

Contents:

Echo Plus,
Power adaptor (30W)
Quick Start Guide

Tech spec:

Product Description Amazon Echo Plus – 2nd Generation – smart speaker
Product Type Smart speaker
Features 7 microphones array
Localisation United Kingdom
Speaker Type 2-way – active
Interfaces Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Intelligent Assistant Compatible Alexa
Streaming Services Spotify, TuneIn, Amazon Music, Audible
Speaker Details Speaker – mono – 2-way – active
Colour Heather grey
Dimensions (WxDxH) 9.9 cm x 9.9 cm x 14.8 cm
Weight 780 g
Manufacturer Warranty 1-year warranty

Features:

Voice control your music
Hands-free calling and messaging
Far-field voice recognition
Alexa has skills, asking details, control your smart TV,.

Setup:

The setup was standard, plug in the Echo device wait for the blue ring which covers the top of the cylinder around 45 seconds. Then the unit is paired with the wifi / smartphone easily and quickly.

Amazon Alexa app:

The Amazon Alexa App is setup using your Amazon account, ( similar to Google Gmail account for Android) The allows personalized feature, including stop-start a resume from previous actions. the app allows control of Alexa-enabled devices, eg smart lights, locks and thermostats at home. The app connected allowed to connect to music services Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and iHeartRadio.

Once set up,

Alexa was able to play music, read the news, check weather forecasts, Set alarm to get up, or use as an egg timer, control compatible smart home devices, call anyone with an Echo device, the Alexa App or Skype,. The voice control allows you to ask for any song, artist, or genre from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, SiriusXM, and more, and play music across compatible Echo devices across your home. The option is also available for Audible, podcasts, radio stations, and more.

Note, The Amazon marketing has got their act together on the physical unit as the unit had no visible mention of Amazon on the unit, but if you ask to play music on the unit. The unit asks to subscribe to Amazon music.

Caution when asking for details of any products for units, Alexa requests “do you want to put it in your basket,”

Smart home experience:

The Echo Plus has a built-in Zigbee hub. The Zigbee is a protocol that talks to smart home devices, allowing connectivity to the Internet of Things into the Smart Home – connecting and controlling them. A common language ensuring if you have a compatible Zigbee device this should work with the echo plus. ( there are many other protocols compatible with other products e.g. Z-Wave ) Once connected to other products Alexa can control these e.g. turn off the lights etc.

Conclusion:

The setup can be annoying as connected via your Amazon account, the use of the speaker had an annoying habit of asking when searching for a product, do you want to add this to your basket. This has the potential of accidentally ordering a product. The Echo is always listening pending the Alexa keyword similar to the other voice assistance on your smartphone. The Echo Plus looks and felt friendly with the voice assistant, ( albeit a few variations on the keywords as picked up from different accents ) the Far-field voice recognition works great, Alexa keyword was spoken across a room and acknowledged with the blue ring of light picking up the command.

The seven microphones, beam-forming technology and noise cancellation worked from any direction even when the music was playing from the unit. The features of playing a game, e.g. Song quiz is great allowing various decades of music to be chosen with the option to repeat the question which was a real hit with friends. Changing the volumes is a pleasure, asking to increase/decrease volume or requesting volume between 1 and 10, i.e. Alexa set volume to 4 keep the same settings as required. The sound and the base was great with full surround speakers built in throughout the Echo Plus,

The Echo plus or smart home technology is not going away getting better as time goes on with more products compatible with the products. When looking to purchase any new smart technology, Bulbs. Light switches, etc it’s worth checking the compatibility eg checking if a compatible zigbee smart home devices. The Amazon Echo Plus 2nd Gen worked great as a hands-freespeaker build in hub allowing control of smart home devices, a pleasure to use.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/All-new-Echo-Plus-2nd-built/dp/B07952VB6P

Available widely in Ireland

Review – Littlebits Base Inventor kit. #Tech #Kids #Education #LittleBits

The introductory base inventor kit from LittleBits includes everything creative kids need to turn their ideas into inventions! With relevant parts and gadgets such as sensors, battery’s and light plus much more the inventor kit brings a whole new level of education to kids in the fields of (engineering, science, technology, art, mathematics) this kit will help them improve and learn new skills for these types of subjects/fields it does it using the simple yet very well laid out designs and videos that also make it easier to follow on the app teaching the kids to build and develop their technical skills and also building skills.

There are over 12 inventions in the kit and a free app guide to help the kids through the fun inventions would also be a very good family activity for parents to do with their kids. Building fun inventions, like a voice-activated robotic gripper arm or a room-protecting Intruder alarm. Then kids are challenged to create their own inventions to improve their room, community, Etc. They gain a lifelong skill that will improve their future and they also do it by having fun and taking part in the building activity.

Product features:

Include in-app instructions for over 12 activities.
Tech sensors,
paper templates for each activity,
2 mounting boards,
LED light,
motor,
stickers,
free inventor app
Battery.

Product specifications:

Skill Level Beginner and upwards.
Educational Objective(s) (sensors, lights and templates..
Assembly Required No.
Batteries Required? Yes.
Batteries Included? Yes.

First use & packaging of the inventor kit

The first impression of the boxes is nice packaging but not very well laid out to what the idea is as is a lot going on the front and back of the box but is a nice size for the amount in it.Very easy to open this packaging as in this kit it is only a matter of sliding the main box out and everything inside is nicely organised and placed inside the box with the instructions placed on the top as seen below.

Labelled clearly like in the pictures and the app will show a picture of the template needed they are labelled at the top..

Template #1 – Template #12 – The labelling on all the paper cut-outs listed.

App & App instructions to make an invention

This app is available on any smartphone or smart device.

First look when the app opens:

The Littlebits Inventor kit had an easy layout, simple and quick to follow. This was thought out and designed clear and simple to follow. The bright colours give a very good outlook purple contrasting with the plain white background in an eye-catching way. The colours would keep your attention and interest.

Some Inventions available to make on the app

The steps to making one of the inventions:

The invention made below is invention number 1 which is called stuff protector. The App will show pictures of parts needed to build this invention and guide the user step by step through the building process both by picture and video.

All the paper templates to make the different inventions

Grab Template 5 below

Follow the video the app plays of folding the lines when next is pressed

Once the video is followed the template is done & the circuit can build.

Parts needed for the circuit

Video for building circuit snips

Then the invention can be then put together.

The above shows a completed invention. The downloaded the app is filled with some educational slides of information about the parts that are used in the process. The parts were clearly laid out with a video making the building process a lot easier. The app is a great visual aid, beneficial and useful.

Some pictures of the inventions made:

Compared Kits:

	Base Inventor Kit Kit	Electronic Music Inventor	Space Rover Inventor Kit
Recommended Age	8+	8+	8+
No. of Activities	12+	12+	30+
Feature Bits	proximity sensor, servo, sound trigger	keyboard, oscillator, speaker, accelerometer	2 DC motors, light sensor, Bluetooth control hub, servo
Great For	New Inventors	Music Lovers	Space Buffs
In – App Instructions	✓	✓	✓

Note: Not suitable for children under 8 years.

Conclusion:

The Littlebits Inventor kit is an educational kit for kids aged 10 and upwards. Younger kids would find a difficulty using the parts and app together. This kit is educational and could help kids develop in many ways and would also be good for a family activity for kids and guardians to bond. It can also work through the phone via the app allowing a group of kids could get together and socialise and work together to invent and create new ideas as the app suggests. The app itself is excellent easy is to follow especially nowadays that most kids use tablets, phones and smart devices. It is educational, encourages kids to think of ideas on their own all while teaching them how to build and create.

The kit itself is very easily laid out simple to attach and nothing too complicated or dangerous to kids. This is an ideal gift to kids 8 and upwards as will guarantee hours of fun and learning as it takes approximately 12 min to 1 hour to build some of the inventions depending on the user.

The kit is expected to last a long time with free instruction on the app used via any smart device. There are 12 different ideas ensuring hours of entertainment and learning fun. This is a great product for those interested in building.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/littleBits-680-0023-Base-Inventor-Kit/dp/B07BFQN5KH

£76.00

Review – The ROCCAT Leadr Wireless RGB gaming mouse. #ROCCAT #Gaming #Tech

The box is striking, stands out which fits in with the gaming environment, the mouse is wireless with the key features listed on the box. The visual look of the mouse is different to your standard mouse having a variety of additional buttons. The initial feel on the mouse was hassle-free comfortable in the hand to move around. The mouse came with a charging dock, the mouse clicked onto the dock easily while the Click sound was like a high power engine purr.

Contents:

ROCCAT® Leadr –
Wireless Multi-Button RGB Gaming Mouse
Quick-Installation Guide
Docking/transmission Stand
1×micro USB to USB cable

Features:

ROCCAT® Owl-Eye optical sensor unrelenting pointer precision with 12000dpi
Next-gen button layout featuring X-Celerator analogue paddle + Fin Switch
Unrivalled wireless optics zero lag: 1000Hz polling + 20h battery
Charging dock & top-up cable charging dock with status LEDs
ROCCAT® Easy-Shift[+]™ button duplicator technology
Two-level RGB illumination customizable light system, 16.8m colours
14 ergonomic mouse buttons programmable + solid 2D Titan Wheel
32-Bit Processor for rapid macro execution
ROCCAT® Swarm powered comprehensive driver & software suite

Setup:

The setup was easy, plug in the USB connector to the ROCCAT® Leadr charging dock, update to the latest version of the software on www.roccat.org. Power on the mouse and pair the device by holding the pairing buttons on the dock and mouse at the same time. The option was available to use the mouse wireless or connect via the USB cable. The 14 fully-programmable mice take a little longer to set up but advantageous for gaming or where constant repetition is required. The setup used the ROCCAT Swarm Software which is available for Windows/android on https://en.roccat.org/Support/Product/Leadr /

ROCCAT mouse range comparison

Manufacturer:

The Roccat was founded in Germany in 2007, they are a hardware manufacturer of high-end gaming peripherals and accessories.

Practical use: Positive

The facility to allow the player to change the functions of the buttons is advantageous for games. For example, any of the buttons can be changed to control or shift. This makes it very easy for the player to just simply press a button on the mouse. This makes play a lot faster and greater entertaining as a result. The mouse runs smoothly over any flat surface which makes it easy-going to use on a variety of surfaces, the ability to use it wirelessly or wired is a big advantage for a gamer or for any use. The wireless mode was extremely responsive and seems to be instant. The mouse response ensured an advantage gamer experience ensuring not been vanquished on an online game. This is far superior to a traditional mouse. In terms of style and design, its multiple lights and the illuminated logo look cool.

Practical use: Negative

The mouse size doesn’t suit smaller hand sizes which may make it more difficult for those with small hands and younger players. The cost of the mouse is expensive as compared to other mice. The Swarm Software is not the easiest software to set up for advanced use. The lights while a bonus on a gaming environment would look out of place in an office if use for a dual purpose as the LED lights cannot be turned off.

Conclusion:

Overall the Roccat LeadR is a fantastic and comfortable mouse with well-distributed buttons that are good for mostly gaming but can be used for other uses besides gaming. The freedom of the wireless mouse is a huge bonus with a cool docking station provided. The docking stands looks and felt cool saving the need to attach a cable at any stage to their mouse. (The Click sound of the mouse to the Docking station was like listening to a purr of the high powered engine, the sound does nothing but feels gratifying.) There is the option to use the USB cable if required. The main difference in this wireless mouse as compared to other non-gaming mouse is the 2.4GHz data transmission which has practically zero lag, and latency which gives lightning-fast input to a challenging game scenario. The ROCCAT® Leadr mouse with its wireless high speed, enhanced functionality is a requisite to the exceptional gaming experience.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Roccat-ROC-11-852-Wireless-Owl-Eye-Multi-Button/dp/B06XYHLZRJ

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