Author: brendanlahert

20 years’ experience in the commercial technical industry. Interested in technology. Certified ITIL v3 Service Management, Project Management Prince 2, Six Sigma.

Review – #YubiKey 4 Nano USB Crush-resistant security key. #2FA #Cybersecurity #Phishing

This YubiKey 4 Nano looks like a memory stick, this is a device that has a second factor of security for your logins, beyond a username and password. (two-factor authentication service,) Security keys are part of an extra security feature called two-factor authentication.

The unit has no batteries, no moving parts, fits on your keychain and plugs into USB on your Laptop.  The manufactures advised its Crush-resistant and waterproof, YubiKey 4 Nano is practically indestructible during normal use – I have read it has survived washing machines (while not tested for this review)  

Dimensions 4 Nano -12mm x 13mm x 3.1mm, 1g and fits snugly inside the USB port

 


This will not stop the current ransomware that has affected worldwide computers which is typically packaged with installation files masquerading as official software updates.   This is a  secure way for individuals, businesses, and developers to secure their accounts and logins. A single key can protect Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and server logins, plus Gmail, G Suite and Google Cloud, YouTube, Facebook Dropbox, GitHub, and Salesforce accounts, plus much more. Setting up to your accounts requires Accessing the account, e.g.  Facebook, you are required to enable two-factor authentication service, there is a link https://www.facebook.com/help/401566786855239  which has clear instructions to setup.

 

How does it work to prevent Passwords being hacked?

Go to: https://www.yubico.com/start/ Plug the YubiKey 4 Nano into your USB slot.

 

 

Configure as per below for each of your accounts, The YubiKey 4 Nano, can be setup with dropbox, Facebook etc.

If you use a second one for a colleague it can be set up quickly once you are get used to the setup. This setup has only to be done only once.

 

 

Plug the YubiKey 4 Nano in every time you want to log into your account

You can use Remember me on your private PC but in an office / library / Friend’s PC you use the key to gain access to your account.

There is also a one time or an app on your phone to generate this access code

Once set up, this works instantly with no need to re-type passcodes — replacing SMS texts, authenticator apps, RSA tokens, and similar devices

 

From the start, https://www.yubico.com/start/

Clicking on the appropriate application gives clear instructions to set up.  The first setup may take a little time, but once familiar on the terminology the setup  become easier, but must be done for each account if you want to enable the two-factor authentication. (which is highly recommended if using the product for all your accounts)

 

 

Some of the functions

  • Secure Static Passwords
  • Yubico OTP
  • OATH – HOTP (Event)
  • OATH – TOTP (Time)
  • PIV-Compliant Smart Card
  • OpenPGP
  • FIDO U2F (Universal Second Factor)
  • Secure Element

Other YubiKey options include – YubiKey 4, YubiKey 4C, YubiKey NEO, FIDO U2F Security Key, https://www.yubico.com/products/yubikey-hardware/

 

 

 

Is the product worth it?

Thousands of WordPress Sites Hacked Using Recently Disclosed Vulnerability,Thousands of Hacked Home Routers are Attacking WordPress Sites.

Some hacked sites in 2016

Apple Health Medicaid

Central Coast Credit Union

Commission on Elections

Cox Communications

Democratic National Committee

Department of Homeland Security

Sony Pictures 2014, Supervalu 2014, Apple 2013, Yahoo 2014, Mozilla 2014, Gmail 2014, eBay 2014, Hilton Hotels 2015   and the list continues!  Does this answer the question?

 

 

Will this product guarantee that you will not be hacked, I doubt it! but will it make the task of hacking your private / business information thousands of times more difficult than if you did not have this, this is like 2 cars side by side with the same specification, one has the top of the range alarm, the other does not, which one will be hacked!  A slight concern due the size of the YubiKey 4 Nano there is a potential to lose, while they are options available should this happen.

 

Tips:

You are seeing strange posts ‘made by you’ in your social feeds. Or maybe your ‘Friends’ are receiving inappropriate messages, allegedly from you.

Your friends are reporting receiving strange spam or emails from you. You could have been hacked!

Adopting a ‘Think before you Click’ mentality is the most valuable action you can take where you consider each email attachment or URL link and the sender it came from before potentially launching some malware on your Laptop / network

If you feel that your Windows PC may have been hijacked, you should disconnect from the Internet and boot into Safe Mode and run a full deep scan of your antivirus software. If your security software has been disabled, use a good on-demand antivirus scanner. and run it from an external disk or USB.

 

A great positive on this product, you purchase once with no annual subscription fee each year as you get with e.g. most antivirus. This is not a replacement for good up to date antivirus.   If your considering two-factor authentication / preventing hacks certainly worth a look at YubiKey 4 Nano.

 

https://www.yubico.com/product/yubikey-4-series/

https://www.amazon.co.uk £48.50

Review  – Engie is your one stop shop for all the car services. #EngieApp #Motoring

This unit is described as “Engie is your one stop shop for all the car services”

The unit came with compact box. It arrived in a packet the size of a box of matches, this is padded out, and well protected.

Inside the box is the OBD11 and manual.  

The On-board diagnostics (OBD) which is used for the vehicle’s self-diagnostic and reporting was easily found to fit into the vehicle socket. The car socket was found under the steering wheel slightly to the right located near the fuse box. This(OBD) allows access to the status of the various vehicle subsystems. This unit its compatible with most petrol cars from 2002 on and diesel cars from 2005. This does not support Hybrid cars.

 

 

 

The manual consists of a fold out piece of paper, which advised how to connect Engie device.  Note the manual shows the vehicle steering wheel on the Right, (Ireland & UK on the left) This would indicate this was designed not for Ireland / UK cars while I suspect most of the diagnostics would be the same for left / right hand drive cars.

 

The App:

This had installs of 50,000 – 100,000. With a user rating of 4.2. .We had to use an APK due to it not being officially available in Ireland yet.

 

 

Setup:

The setup is straightforward, find the OBD socket in your car, (usually located under the steering wheel near the fuse box), Download the app Engie – Easy Auto Repair, to your phone, Pair the OBD11 to your phone via Bluetooth and run the set up. This asked for the make & model of your car. The year of manufacture. This information narrows down the cars model when you enter the Make, Model, Year, Engine,

The app is running and checks Malfunction diagnostics, Battery charge, Emission, Engine heat, Fuel efficiently, Car system alerts, battery, Alternator, engine temperature, ABS alerts, SRS -Airbag.

 

 

 

Some features on the app within Ireland do not work, e.g. Get real-time quotes from nearby mechanics. (as the product become more popular this could be updated) The Engie device advised it can Diagnosis over 10,000 car faults. The product seems to be designed by engineers, with little input from a marketing department in terms on putting together instructions for use, what are the possible 10,000 car faults diagnostics.

An interesting feature of the app is the tracking of your vehicle. In the event, you park your vehicle in a long-term car park or forget where the car was left you can check via a map on the app where the vehicle was last used with the app.

 

 

One concern of mine, on testing on a car, this advised it does over 10,000 car faults, but mentioned in Green The car is OK, but does not give a clear indication what of the over 10,000 car faults tests were done for my car. Is does advise the Alternator, engine temperature was at the right level.

One thing I like from the supplier, they requested feedback they wanted “hear your feedback and constantly improve our product” They main feedback I would have on this product is on the over 10,000 car faults checks to give clear idea what has been checked and allow to reset faults as required, e.g. service interval on the dashboard, when the service is done locally

As this is software on the app, I suspect any new faults / updates can easily be updated which is very positive for future proofing.  The cost of the kit will certainly not break the bank even if just gave you a little piece of mind.

 

Further information is available from

http://buy-obd.engieapp.com/en

PRICE  £14.99  Engie device for Android

PRICE  £19.99  Engie device for iPhone 

Review – Packed Pixels monitor. #Laptops #Monitors

Packed Pixels monitor.

This additional Packed Pixels screen comes in a high resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels in a screen size of  9.7’’. This extra monitor is great for comparing documents, writing emails or articles while referring to online comparisons, and general multi-tasking. You can Switch between applications quickly — Instead of using keyboard shortcuts, like ALT + TAB to multitask, you can point your mouse to the other Packed Pixels screen which save a lot of time. You can view documents side by side and compare. You can drag the mouse from monitor to monitor.

Contents Includes:
⦁ a Packed Pixels screen
⦁ a pair of mounting brackets
⦁ a desk stand
⦁ a USB to MicroUSB cable
⦁ a DisplayPort to Mini DispayPort cable
⦁ a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable

 

 

Connections:
This is an issue for many of the major manufactures of laptop is the connectivity to the Packed Pixels monitor. Packed Pixels use DisplayPort or Thunderbolt (1 or 2) ports. HDMI, VG and Thunderbolt 3 ports are not supported. Unfortunately, many of the current laptops do not have a Mini DisplayPort or a Thunderbolt connector to the laptop which would involve getting an USB3 to DisplayPort convertors adapter to fit. These can be purchased via the usual suppliers Amazon, eBay etc. but may be of varying quality. Generally, Apple have the thunderbolt connections which work easily. Some dell monitors I have seen have the DisplayPort connection on their monitor
DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort or a Thunderbolt (1 or 2) port is used to take its video feed from your laptop. Power to the monitor is supplied via the standard USB cable which works well from your laptop or external USB charger.

 

 

The monitor can be physically connected directly to your laptop via the mounting brackets supplied in Portrait or landscape mode. The view on your laptop can be adjusted from your desktop software via” customise your display options”

 

 

I would not recommend using this monitor with Linux as you cannot change the size of the resolution, only 1 size, when the screen goes into sleep mode this does not come back correctly on Linux. If using on Windows or Mac, you can change resolution as required with no issues observed when the laptop screen goes into standby/ sleeps.

 

 

Once the connections are correct, setup takes less than a minute and works comfortable and advantageous. The portable case fits all accessories as required which works well if travelling allot. Once you get used to a second monitor, its hard to go back to a single screen.

Available from https://www.packedpixels.com/ £149.00
Delivery is available to Ireland (Stg£ 20) or UK £5 via DHL for a single pack

Review – The VQ Hepburn Mk II DAB Radio and Bluetooth speaker. #DAB #Radio

The Hepburn Mk II is a DAB Radio and Bluetooth speaker that has a vintage looks and modern functionality with British design and engineering. You can play the standard radio, charge your phone, connect your phone. This unit became the focal point of visitors, they observed the vintage look and complimented, as this would not be out of place in the 80s. 90s, 2000s or today. Anecdotally the young generation liked the vintage look and feel. As a rule, the younger generation lean towards internet and mobile radio with the older generation staying with if it any broke why change regarding the Analogue radio.

 

In the box
⦁ Power Adapter with plugs for UK and mainland Europe – User Manual
General Specification:
⦁ DC power supply: 5V/2A
⦁ Battery life: 76hrs Standby
⦁ LCD Screen
⦁ Warranty: 3 Years, this is great to see a 3-year warranty with this product.
⦁ Tuner DAB reception: (BAND III 5A-13F), DAB+ reception: (BAND III 5A-13F)
⦁ FM reception: (87.5MHz-108MHz): No AM reception, No. of presets: 10 FM / 10 DAB+
⦁ Connectivity Bluetooth compatible, 3.5mm Aux-in: Yes, USB Port, Headphone socket:
⦁ Product Information width (mm): 314 height: 166, depth: 94, weight (kg): 1.5

Colours available

 

 

Bluetooth:
You can setup up your Android / iPhone etc. via Bluetooth to connect to the Hepburn Mk II. The set-up connection is easy and straightforward. You can then change tracks and adjust volume, play what’s on your phone via the Radio. If using Spotify / equivalent on your phone, this can be played on the Hepburn Mk II but the artist or track does not come up on the radio display. Sound quality is good and works with in the Bluetooth range of 10 meters. This functionally is great to use when you want to play your own track list around the house.

Alarm:

This is a useful feature if the Radio is placed in the Kitchen, Count Down Timer (Cooking Timer) The timer can be set at one minute intervals up to 99 minutes in the future. There is a Dual Alarm which can be set for active day: Daily, Once, Weekends or Weekdays with the Alarm source: DAB, FM or buzzer

App:
The free app “viewquest” has Installs of 1,000 – 5,000 with a rating of 2.9 out of 5, with 27 comments. This can turn your smartphone or tablet into a remote control for your Hepburn Mk II. The Quest App allows you to switch sources between Bluetooth, Dab/DAB+, FM and Auxiliary, DAB/DAB+, FM: adjust volume, channels and presents, display RadioVIS information etc. This is quite nice allowing channel changes etc. without leaving your chair.

Battery:
This is the only annoying part of the radio, this does not come with a Rechargeable Battery Pack (optional) as not required unless out and about. When you are setting up the radio initially, you set up the functionality, time, preset radio stations etc. If you unplug the radio to move from room to room, these setting are lost.
You can get a Rechargeable VQ Battery Pack getting 76hrs life between charges, with around 25 hrs continuous playback which is very good. This can be purchased initially or via https://www.myvq.co.uk/shop/large-battery.html £19.99 . If planning on using the radio out and about on the go, this may be worth getting.

 

If DAB radio is new to you…..
Traditionally radio programmes were broadcast on different frequencies via AM and FM, and the radio had to be tuned into each frequency, as needed. This used up a large amount of spectrum for a relatively small number of stations, limiting listening choice. DAB is a digital radio broadcasting system that through the application of multiplexing and compression combines multiple audio streams onto a relatively narrow band centred on a single broadcast frequency called a DAB ensemble.

Looking at other countries Norway has become the first country in the world to start phasing out the FM radio signal in favour of Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB). In the ROI, a DAB Radio is the only receiver at present that can receive all RTÉ’s transmitted radio content. RTE has a 54% population coverage and is available in Cork and Limerick cities and the greater Dublin area. The UK currently has the world’s largest digital radio network, with over 150 transmitters across the country and 415 DAB services. The UK radio industry is working toward a Digital Radio Switchover whilst the government intends to migrate the clear majority of AM & FM analogue services to digital between 2016 & 2019. Over half of all UK households now have a DAB radio, analogue radio is now declining.

 

Caution:
If purchasing this product, check if there is DAB coverage in your area, In the UK coverage has been found to be excellent while on occasions driving with a DAB car radio, this has resulted in some spots where the signal drops and no sound from the radio. I would suggest Purchase from a location, easily to return if no DAB coverage, while all the other functions will work. If in doubt you can check with http://www.myvq.co.uk/support.html, UK Hepburn Support on – 0333 1234 601 on coverage / use etc.

This radio has classic visuals of the past with modern technology to give creative sound and functionality. Thumbs up! This can be purchased / viewed at https://www.myvq.co.uk/shop/hepburn-mkii.html £129.99

Review – Jabra sport coach wireless headphones. #sports #jabra #fitness

Jabra sport coach – review The initial view of the unit, it looked nothing but packs a powerful punch!

This company has their act together in the terms of the packaging contents & warranty, the box came with the usual instructions in a variety of languages, but came with great packaging, small, medium and large ear buds and comply foam tips (we reviewed these last year) with a clip to hold behind the head for running.

 

 

 

The unit Weighs in at 16 g (0.56 oz), this is extremely light. What’s in the box? Jabra Sport Coach headphones, 3 sets of EarGels™, 3 sets of EarWings™, 2 FitClips™, 1 Pouch, 1 USB cable, 1 Quick Start Guide. Manual.

 

 

 

This unit comes with a variety of instructions but only required glancing over 5 pages of English or viewing the how to wear video on http://www.jabra.co.uk/sports-headphones/jabra-sport-coachwireless Basic function on the headset: Power on, Power off, Answer call, Volume control, Mute, reject call, Skip track, Play or pause music, Redial, Jabra Sport Life app.

The In-ear Voice is excellent for the initial setup of the device advising when connected, or battery level and regarding the Real-time updated on your workout progress.

Overview Specification:

  • Operating range Up to 10 meters (33 feet)
  • Paired devices Up to 8 – connected to two at the same time
  • Talk/Music time Up to 5.5 hours
  • Standby time Up to 10 days
  • Charging time Approximately 2 hours
  • Wearing style In-ear
  • Dimensions, main unit In-ear wearing style: H 18 x W 21 x D 32 mm (0.7 x 0.82 x 1.2 in)
  • Cable length 60 cm (23.6 in) / USB data cable: 31 cm (12.2 in)

Accessories: This model has accessories available in the event of loss, damage or just a change in various colours, EarGel pack for Jabra Sport Coach Wireless. It contains 2 FitClips, 4 sets of EarGels™ and 3 sets of EarWings in a selection of shapes and sizes.

http://www.jabra.co.uk/products/accessories/jabra_sport_coach_wireless_accessories/jabra_coach_ea rgels_blue

 

JABRA’S SPORT LIFE APP

The Jabra Sport Life app helps you plan, track and analyse your cross-training work-outs and gives you personalised and inspiring in-ear coaching as you work out to help you optimise each session. The play store has Installs listed as 100,000 – 500,000 with a user rating of 3.6 out of 5 from 919 reviews.

This manages fitness with, Integrated Training Management, fitness algorithms, set your goals and track your progress, workout history and achievements, Automatic repetition counting support (Jabra Elite Sport) Inear Voice Coaching, set up a wide range of workouts, from running to cross-training circuits. Automatic repetition counting Built-in TrackFit™ Motion sensor now automatically counts your reps. Jabra sport coach use I have used the headset continuously for over 3 hours, walking, making telephone calls, watching movies, working on a Laptop, & a bit of exercise.

This did not become uncomfortable on the contrary you can forget they’re in your ear. (this is partially due to the weight of the kit & options on EarGels that fit correctly.) The EarGels do not fall out with erratic motion.

The earbuds are not magnetic as seen with others but small enough not to be an issue. Dislikes: (Very Minor Gripes)

The app asked for your Date of Birth, I don’t have an issue with the year, month, but concerns over privacy (as with all companies that look for you details). This would be nice to have the option to include only the year / month etc., Mine is now set for the 1 Jan* As will all Bluetooth devices, if the headset is not switched off and you receive a phone call within 10 metres on the headset the audio come through the headset and could potentially miss the call.

Battery life is not as good as other headsets I have used, but at Music playing up to 5.5 hours, it’s not bad.

 

 

Verdict:

Jabra is a company I like as they do the simple things well, 3-year warranty, standard USB cable that fits most Android smart phones, ear buds included that come in small medium and large included in the pack, not optional extras. IP55 Certified, drop, strength, dirt, temperature & humidity tested. Should you lose or damage the ear buds you have the option to purchase new ear buds, A great app for the Integrated Training Management,

A snug fit of the earpiece and quality sound. If dedicated to been fit, certainly the product to go with. Jabra Sport Coach Special Edition £99.99 http://www.jabra.co.uk/sports-headphones/jabra-sport-coach-wireless

 

 

Review – BT Halo Bluetooth Cordless Phone with Answering Machine. #tech #home #office

 

BT Halo Twin The initial view of the packaging was big & heavy, the Twin handsets are larger and longer than a standard phone. The handset felt sturdy, curved with a comfortable rubber earpiece. The microphone fits snuggly around the mouth There is a metal base for charging with the answer machine built in. When the handset is removed from the base, the handset lights up making it easier to see in the dark. The number buttons have a backlight. The box comes with all the cables connections in different shapes ensuring they can’t be mixes up making the job of setting up easy. This Box came with contents and manual.

 

 

 

This model has the facility to Block nuisance calls. (You must have caller ID enabled) You can also opt out of marketing fixed-line (landline) calls by registering free on http://www.tpsonline.org.uk/tps/number_type.html . Mobile customers can register their mobile by sending a text ‘TPS’, followed by their email address to the shortcode 85095. ROI Customers can have their telephone number included in the NDD Home Phone – National Directory Database (NDD), this is an opt-out register via their telephone line provider, eir, Virgin, Sky etc. These are not part on the call blocking technology but useful to be aware of. Should you use the phone, when the phone is set up initially, If the contact is not stored on the phone, trueCall asks callers to state their name and then press the hash key on their phone allowing you to know who is calling. This feature can be turned Off or On but may confuse your callers at first until their numbers are stored in the phone book,

 

 

BT Halo Twin – Pairing to smartphphone
BT Halo Twin – Pairing to smartphone This is one on my favourite features, pairing this to my smartphone with the Halo over Bluetooth, this allows all contacts on the smart phone to be copied directly to the BT Halo. This took about 3 minutes having close to 1000 contacts on my phone, I would recommend having a purge of your contacts on your smartphone first to ensure old obsolete numbers are not copied to the handset. You can register up to 2 mobile phones with 1000 names / numbers in each. This gave the choice of calling from the home phone number or my mobile each time I wanted to place a call. Answering a call on my smartphone is also possible when within Bluetooth range (Bluetooth’s range is limited to 10m) of the house phone. The call quality was far superior on the BT Halo than using the smartphone as I placed my smartphone in a good signal location and used Bluetooth around the house, previously on the stairs my smartphone would break up while there was no change in call quality using the BT Halo. The BT Halo also had a superior comfortable feel especially on long calls.

 

Features 
A great feature on both base stations is 2 separate 1 amp USB charging sockets allowing e.g. your mobile to be charged beside the phone. This means 1 less power socket plugged in, removing unnecessary clutter. There is also a find button which would help should a handset fall behind the sofa. I have read some reviews which mentions poor call quality on the handset, this may have been an older version of the handset software or incorrect filters on the telephone. The call quality on the Handset landline and when used via the Bluetooth via my Smartphone has been of good quality. There is a backlight on the base station which if located in the bedroom is low enough not to disturb sleep. There is a large structured menu with a reset button, if case you accidentally set up any setting not required. A useful feature is the alarm clock which can be used as a standard alarm clock (this does not have the facility to automate the alarm turning off at the weekend, this is done manually). The battery life is Up to 21/ hours talk time/240 hours standby. The volume button on the side is easy to use, the answer machine buttons look stylish and easy to use as part of the base. There is the usual variety of ring tones, key pad tones and other features.

  • BT Halo Twin Features  Register 2 mobile phones at any one time  Store 1000 numbers on your Halo contact list, plus 1000 contacts from each of your synced mobile phones (register 2 mobiles at any one time)  Copy telephone contacts between Halo handsets  1.8″ Vibrant Colour Screen  Hands-free speakerphone on handsets  Up to 60 minutes of message recording on answer machine  Do not disturb mode with one touch call blocking  PIN controlled outgoing call blocking so that you can block premium, mobiles or international calls.  Clear Back-lit keypad  Long range reception up to 300m outdoors, 50m indoors  Up to 21 hours of talking and 240 hours on standby  Easy access to BT calling features (3 way calling, call divert)  See and hear if you have a second call waiting.

 

 

Twin set

If deciding on a product, (& money is not the key requirement) going for the Twin option, a 2 handset is highly recommended as try taking a call on a Saturday morning with the handset downstairs, placing one handset upstairs and one downstairs worked well, call quality on both was excellent. The handset which was left upstairs required no wiring just plugged into the standard mains socket.

BT Halo Twin

ROI use This phone comes with the BT Logo and a comes with a UK cable designed for the UK, In ROI you can use the standard RJ11 cable with the phone. The phone will operate similar with the only different been the answer machine and call waiting different numbers which will work. Note eir dropped their SMS service on fixed landline so this feature will not work in Ireland if with eir. Cost Is it worth it? If you receive Nuisance calls and this becomes an issue, then a product of this nature is a must. If this is for a non-techie, this phone can be used as a normal phone but expensive to be used as a basic phone.

To get the best from this phone utilising the array of menu its worthwhile. Regarding the cost, we pay 100s of Pounds / euro for the latest smart phone (albeit subsidised by the networks) which will be obsolete in about 2 years. This model, I would expect to get a least 5 years of use, without the need for an upgrade, while only comes with 1 year warranty. Most manufactures of cordless phones only provide a 1 year warranty which is a shame as many other product come with a 3-year warranty.

Note: If there is no power to phone, Electricity is gone, calls cannot be made or received, nor 999. 112 calls. Technical support If required is available via the Free BT Helpdesk on 0800 145 6789 or via the email link on the product page at www.bt.com/producthelp.

This product is available in the UK & Ireland from Currys , Argos and ShopBT   

Review – Nextbase 412GW Dash cam. #Nextbase #Motoring #DashCams @NextbaseUK

I have been using the Nextbase 412GW   Dash cam for about a month now.  The first impression of The Nextbase 412GW Dash cam was the weight at 86g that’s light, this is a great bonus as mounted with a bracket on the windscreen, the weight does not pull it off over speed bumps. The 3” LED panel allows viewing easily. This is not a cheap budget device which can be observed from the packing, product feel with a variety of functions & connections.

The unit packaging was impressive, all the usual accessories cigarette charger, mounting bracket on the windscreen.

 

 

This came with older USB type cable with is a disadvantage as another cable in the car. The cigarette cable is extra-long which is a bonus having to run this over the vehicle to the dash mount location. There would be a   requirement for a dual charger to allow charging of your phone at the same time. This is my biggest critic of this unit, the power cable type, and the options left to charge another unit.

The instruction manual is supplied on a disk with additional information on www.nextbase.co.uk.

The unit came separate with a 32GB MicrosSD card for use with Nextbase cams, (Scan disk card), This supports SDHC and SDXC micro SD cards up to 32GB, giving up to 4 hour’s worth of footage before the product loops. Typically, a 16Gb card will store the last 2 hours of driving footage, then will record over the oldest footage, Interesting Nextbase advise Every 2-3 weeks “we recommend that you reformat the memory card. This will wipe any files from the card and set it up afresh for continued use with your iN-CAR CAM.”  This would involve taking the Card out of the Dashcam to format. I would recommend having a spare card in the event of incident, (You can save an incident / Dashcam will automatically save this)

The Dash Cam can feature QUAD HD 1440p footage at 30 frames per second. This is four times the number of pixels you would get on a standard HD panel (720p) as seen on your older plasma / LCD TV. Most files recorded are in the region under 500MB for a 3-minute clip. These are large files reflected by the quality of the footage. The footage has been checked on a standard Laptop and my own 46” LCD. The Quality was excellent on both when the card removed and placed into the Laptop / LCD TV.

Firstly, during installation start with the safety in mind, Next base recommended when fitting in the vehicle, a quick clean of the glass helps, then install the in-CAR CAM so it does NOT obstruct the drivers view of the road, preferably on the passenger side of the vehicle and behind the rear-view mirror. Recommended location fitting (as per the manual), one interesting thing on the location of the dash cam is the setup for a left-hand side of the road vehicle, i.e. UK car. Many Manufactures forget Ireland & the UK.  Next base has offices in Surrey & Wales which is always a positive in case on any issues.  When fitting the Dash, cam check the sun visor to ensure the Dash cam does not get knocked by the visor, that’s from experience!

 

 

This has a Click & Go Powered Magnetic Mount, ensuring removing from the vehicle is easy and quick. This feature is excellent if removing at night.  It would be great if the Charger plugged directly into the Magnetic Mount, as you must un-clip the Dashcam from the charger cable, and the Magnetic Mount,

There are 3 modes of camera operation – Video, Photo and Playback.

  • Video Mode: The default mode when the camera is turned on, for video recording.
  • Photo Mode: Allows you to take still photographs.
  • Playback mode: Allows you to view recorded video or photographs up

Playback contains, longitude, latitude speed, date & time. This was interesting with the cam looking at the road at the speedometer, the car on cruise control at 49 MPH, stated on review on the Dash cam footage 46 MPH,

Some of the lower end units do not record the longitude, latitude and speed.

 

On the unit, there is a Reset button which is great in case there is a problem at any stage as there is no removable battery, this may sound trivial but try using a product that won’t power off, It has however a low battery warning..

Wi-Fi:

This has Inbuilt Wi-Fi which (if your inclined this way) to upload footage to social media / insurance company.  The Wi-Fi connects as a normal Wi-Fi router / dongle, search for the SSID, E.g. Nextbase 412GW Enter the password as given on the Dash cam,

On your smartphone Nextbase Cam Viewer App is available for free download from the Google Play Store (Android) approx. 26 M file with 10,000 – 50,000 Installs rated as 3 out of 5. There were a few occasions, I had to refer to the manual having to power off the Nextbase 412GW. Initially this would not connect to a smart phone, I tried with a Samsung smart phone worked straight away. Once working the video display was clearly visible which was easily played back. The play back initial buffer was slower than expected as I am used to instant playback from a Computer.  I found Video playback may pause while the video buffers as I wanted to quickly view 4 hours of footage quickly rather than a 3-minute clip. The video clips were clearly visible on a Samsung smart phone.

The Cam Viewer allowed Live View from the iN-Car Camera which was of great quality while a microsecond delay between footage on the Dashcam getting to android phone.

You can view video / photo files stored upon the camera and download to your connected device for viewing later.

 

 

 

Number Plate recognition.

A feature on the dashcam is the Number Plate recognition, Enter the registration number for your vehicle, this will then be shown on the video file. This is a feature on expensive / Business CCTV systems which is good to see on the dash cam.

Specification in more Detail.

  • 140 degree wide angle view with QUAD 1440p High Definition recording at 30 fps
  • High frame rate option of 60fps recording at FULL 1080p HD
  • Inbuilt Wi-Fi to share your footage directly with your mobile via the Nextbase Cam Viewer app
  • Ultra-clear 3.0” LED display for ease of playback and menu selection
  • Improved night vision for clear footage in poor lighting conditions
  • Exclusive Powered Magnetic Click & Go mount for easy installation in the vehicle
  • Instant evidence to support insurance claims to help prove an incident was not your fault
  • Super slimline design – Dimensions 10.9 x 5 x 1.8 cm (W x H x D) (37mm incl. lens)
  • Six-Element Sharp Lenses made with 6 layers of glass to provide stunning clear images
  • GPS receiver and G sensor to record location and force data
  • Inbuilt battery with up to 30 minute backup in the event of an accident
  • Easy to install with 4m 12v power cable and Click & Go powered window mount included
  • SOS data protection prevents the impact/ event recording from being deleted
  • Supports SDHC and SDXC Micro SD cards up to 32GB (class 10 recommended)

The Full Product specification.

This is an interesting point to be aware of in the event of an accident. I don’t know the legality of video footage in court / insurance but interesting to read. (Taken from the manual)

The video recordings made by this Digital Video Recorder are intended for personal use only. 8. Publication of the recordings on Youtube, the internet or other methods are subject to the Data Protection Act and the requirements thereof must be adhered to. If the Digital Video Recorder is to be used within a commercial environment, i.e. truck use, then the CCTV regulation apply also, in addition to the Data Protection Act regulations. This includes labelling to identify the use of CCTV is taking place, the omission of Audio recording and informing the relevant authorities of who controls the data. Video playback upon the device which is visible to the driver is prohibited or restricted in some countries or States

How difficult is the Dashcam to set up / Record?

Setting up the Dashcam physically in the car take a few minutes. Record can be automatically set up. Play back by removing the card and placing in a Laptop can take a few minutes, Dashcam playback took less than a minute. Setting up Wi-Fi and Playback does take a bit longer to setup, down load the app.

Would I recommend this Product?

If this is for a non-techie driving low millage, certainly not, but if you’re one of those people that often state, there is never a Policemen when you want one, or wait till I tell you what happened today on the road. (Have a look at the video of a cyclist going down the wrong way on the street.  branch of a tree been pulled down by a lorry, or Pedestrian crossing the road)

If you’re a serious driver on the road, then having this is your vehicle is great in case an accident happens. Should there be an incident with video footage you can clearly see who was at fault in the incident – whether it was day or night, saving in Insurance excess and split liability claims. I have noticed on occasions when the weather was freezing I unconsciously checked the operation of the dash cam expecting the potential of an incident. Another question I have been asked, is it worth paying extra for a good model, depending on a budget the quality is excellent, footage excellent, this model shows you location and speed.  If you drive a vehicle for hours per day than possible, this may be the route to go down! Any professional driver should have this as I suspect the bus companies have not put cameras on the buses for our safety, rather the safety of their insurance claims. I have now noticed Learner Driver vehicle instructors now have these in their vehicles. This would be great to allow driving instructors to give students an SD card, allowing them a second view of the road positioning and leanings.

 

I would like to thank Nextbase UK for sending this out, Initially I though a gimmick which I would be bored of after a week, Sorry Guys at Nextbase this is one product I am keeping in my car, Once I reviewed the footage and observed some of near incidents. 

You can head over to Nextbase UK for more details  https://www.nextbase.co.uk/dashcams/412gw-dash-cam/    RRP Price: Stg £129.99

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Review – Samsung V100T MiFi(4G) on T-Mobile US bundle from @CellhireUK #Travel #MiFi

This is Bredans second review here on techbuzzireland and there is plenty more to come, This time around  he reviews the Samsung V100T Mifi 4G.

On this US trip to avoid expensive data usage using the Samsung V100T MiFi(4G), My first comment could have been Why do I need broadband in New York as on Holidays?  This comment is like “Everything that can be invented, has been invented.” Charles Duell, Commissioner of the U.S. Patent Office in 1899. Broadband is now a basic way of life from Picking a restaurant, reading the reviews, navigating to the Restaurants, checking on Google what’s in the dish, the Chef a food genius or food criminal, video calling with WhatsApp uploading pictures to Facebook of exotic food, booking a taxi back, Keeping the streak going on snapchat all utilised Broadband.  Broadband abroad was not option rather a necessity.

 

 

The MiFi Arrived ready to go (with Tracking Link) & a Prepaid return pack included with real efficiently. My initial observation of the MiFi – Its big! Physically bigger than MiFi I have used before. Product Dimensions 6.7 x 4.4 x 2.4 inches    Item Weight 4.8 ounces. This allowed a larger battery in the MiFi at 3100mAh. This came with the US Charger, detachable USB Charger cable, internal battery and a charging cable attached to the MiFi. Usual packing & instructions on use. This MiFi allowed all the advantage out & about to contact home free.  The data limits can be set up the MiFi on the http://192.168.43.1:8080 web portal.  Standard password used.  The Wireless network name and Password is located underneath the back cover.

 

 

The cable charger used, Micro USB Charger as used in most android phone. (some newer phones have the newer USB Type-C) As a frequent traveller less cables are required, not different cables for each device which is a bonus for this device. The attached cable on the MiFi is excellent plugging directly into a Laptop but too short to Plug in a wall socket. If you forget your charger, the television in your hotel USB could be used to charge the MiFi. Another great feature of the Samsung V100T MiFi was the display is seeing how many devices were connected to the unit at any time this help to monitor use.

 

 

 

 

This package came with a 6GB bundle, I have got 4G speed of 3.6Mbps on speed test sites in New York using T mobile. On a recent survey by http://www.opensignal.com   they reported T-Mobile as having the best metrics in New York in terms of Download Speed: 4G, / 3G, Latency: 4G, / 3G, Coverage: 4G.  They reported getting speeds in New York on T-Mobile of 16.6Mbp (The max I got was 3.6Mbps in New York) with good coverage in most areas.

Is it expensive?

Using your normal UK Vodafone Pay as you go This is what you’ll pay to use your Phone in USA for data   http://www.vodafone.co.uk/explore/costs/travelling-abroad/  Data £5 a 25MB then £3 a MB after that, (Remember to Turn off your Roaming data on your phone unless you want to take out a small mortgage, Wi-Fi ok to use)

Wi-Fi in the New York Hotel was $24.96 for 3 days. (I would expect this to vary from Hotel to Hotel) This would have worked but meant only Broadband in the hotel, not out and about.

But in the UK, there is free Wi-Fi in hotels! a recent visit to a Premier Inn in the UK got speeds of 160Kbps with the caveats of Want to stream films, TV shows or download big files? For a connection that’s at least 8x faster, upgrade to our Ultimate Wi-Fi from only £5 for 24 hours (for up to 3 devices).

There is a variety of menus on the MiFi for the experienced user, while a short business stay or pleasure may not use these

Some of the Menus,

Port forwarding

Setting Data limit / Security

What if I have a problem / go over my limit?

You can contact the Cellhire 24/7 hotline for support.

If you exceed the bundle, you get a Text to the MiFi, you are slowed down to e.g. 128Kbps, which you can still get emails etc. (not cut off)

Thanks again to Cellhire mobile solutions  https://www.cellhire.co.uk for The Samsung V100T MiFi(4G) on a T mobile US bundle. I know they were supplying hundreds of MiFi’s, SIM cards and smartphones to UK media covering the election in the US.

Add Magnetic charge to your smartphone with ZNAPS By @VicenteA_George #Startup #Znaps

Looking forward the hassle of taking care of the charging socket of your smartphone when it lacks wireless charging, ZNAPS offers a really simple solution.

ZNAPS is a specially designed magnetic adapter for your mobile devices, one that can easily change the way you charge.

The trick is made by the two parts of the adaptor, the first part that goes in your phone socket and the second one that goes over your cable plug.

ZNAPS supports charging as well as data synchronization and it’s designed for Lightning cable, Micro-USB and USB Type C cable which makes it compatible with almost every piece of portable tech you have.

Let’s take a look a what it offers:

Lightning / Micro-USB / USB-C Support

Easy Plug / Unplug: The magnetic connection Connect and Detect your phone instantly.

Reversible: You can “plug” the cable on any side.

Data Synchronisation

Charge Indicator:  Small hidden LED to indicate charging status.

Cable Protection: Protection for the cable connector head.

Minimal: It’s so small that’s compatible with almost any smartphone case (maybe some Trident or Otterbox cases may present problems due to the charger flap)

Affordable: The base price point is $9

Waterproof: Prevent water damage at the phone socket.

Yes! you read that right, it makes your phone waterproof! Well sort of, what it really makes is block liquids of any kind from entering the phone socket.
The ZNAPS Connector has a silicone ring that does the work of preventing water from getting into your phone port.

Another special features it has and worth the notice are:

Is Micro-USB 3.0 compatible.

Supports Quick Charge 2.0.

and last but no least they also add a Keychain Case to carry two adapters and two connectors with you.

But enough talk! Take a look by yourself:

Right now the guys at ZNAPS are about to finish their Kickstarter campaign but you can still grab some early promotions that goes from $9 with One (1) ZNAPS combo (connector+adapter) all the way until $480 with 10 ZNAPS combos + 10 Keychains and more stuff

To do that you can go HERE

Are you going to “Change the way you Charge”? Let us know in the comments sections bellow, or Tweet us using #techbuzzireland

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