Primary school students go head-to-head at Dell VEX Robotics challenge in Cork #robotics #Dell

The first Dell VEX Primary School Regional Competition of 2018 is taking place today in Cork Institute of Technology (CIT). The competition is run by Dell, in collaboration with CIT who have been involved with the programme since Dell brought it to Ireland six years ago.

67 Primary School Teams Compete in Final Stages of Competition

The first Dell VEX Robotics competition for secondary schools took place in 2012 featuring 10 teams before expanding in 2014 with the creation of the VEX IQ Primary School competition with 19 primary school teams competing that year. Over recent years, the competition has grown from strength to strength. 98 teams are involved in this year’s contest; 67 from primary schools and 31 from secondary schools.  In total, 1,800 students from seven counties will participate over five days of events in the final stages of the competition.

The Dell VEX Robotics Challenge calls on students at primary and secondary school level to work in teams to design, build and program a robot. In September schools are provided with an easy to follow curriculum to help the schools run the preparation stages independently with the support of Dell employees who have volunteered their time to visit participating schools and provide guidance to students and teachers. Preparation with students has been taking place since September with scrimmages taking place in schools during November to prepare students for the competition phases.


Liam Daly and Aoibheann Roche of Burnfort NS Mallow with classmates preparing for the competition.
The first Dell VEX Primary School Regional Competition of 2018 took place today in Cork Institute of Technology (CIT). The competition is run by Dell, in collaboration with CIT who have been involved with the programme since Dell brought it to Ireland six years ago. The semi-finals will take place on January 17th and 18th at CIT and at the Dell Limerick Campus on February 1st. The finals will take place in CIT on March 1st. The overall winners will get a spot in the VEX World Competition in Kentucky.

At the semi-final events, primary schools will compete against each other, present their projects to the judges and compete in a teamwork challenge with the finalists announced at the end of the day. The finals of the Primary School competition is taking place on March 1st in Cork Institute of Technology with the overall winners getting a spot in the VEX World Competition in Kentucky,

 Bob Savage, Managing Director and Vice President EMEA, Dell Centre of Excellence said: “As a company we’re passionate about showcasing the exciting side of STEM subjects and inspiring students to become interested in science, technology, engineering and maths. Ultimately, we hope programmes like Dell VEX Robotics will have an impact on the choices students make when preparing for their Leaving Cert and when selecting courses for third level education. With Ireland’s tech sector continuing to thrive and technologies such as AI, VR and AR expected to be a core part of the future of work – regardless of the job or profession a student pursues, gaining these computational and engineering skills while still at school will be invaluable to them for the future.”

Dónal Ó Murchú, Principal, GaelScoil Thomais Daibhis, Mallow said: “The Dell VEX Robotics Programme is changing mindsets and addressing real issues with a problem-solving attitude; it focuses and inspires our young pupils to become the new innovators of their future. The fact that the pupils were more knowledgeable about some aspects of the robotics than their teachers meant that in our school the learning was pupil–led rather than what one might ordinarily expect.”

There are several aspects that differentiate the VEX Robotics Competition which is run by Dell from other school based projects. The competition focuses on engaging children from a young age with students as young as 9 and 10 years old designing robots. Typically, it involves full classes at primary level, meaning it engages all students and not just those who might already be tech-oriented. This is key to building that pipeline of talent that the technology industry needs to thrive. It also provides a wealth of opportunities to get involved within the community, from volunteers who provide mentoring sessions at their local school, to those who volunteer at an event as a referee, judge, inspector or more.


Eoghan neison, Manahil sabir, Dolly Sheehan and Jess young of Cork Educate Together N.S.,
Grattan Street. Cork City

The Dell VEX Robotics Challenge is delivered by Dell with the support of CIT. Throughout the last year, strategic partnerships have been built with various educational institutions. Mary Immaculate College in Limerick delivered a module on VEX Robotics for student teachers, held a summer course for school teachers and sponsored a number of teams. The Education Support Centres in Cork and Limerick both hosted VEX Robotics support sessions for teachers.

For further information on VEX Robotics log onto https://www.roboticseducationireland.com/ or contact EMC.VEX.Robotics.School.Team@emc.com

January security patch available for the Nokia 8 in Ireland #Nokia8

If you own the Nokia 8 get checking now, And also this is coming much earlier than previous updates which we have seen which tend to rollout near the end of the month so this is good to see. The Update is not particularly large either coming in at 97.3 MB. There is no more info at hand regarding whats in the update but just the January Patch,but check your device now and see if you can avail of it.

 

 

Brainwavz introduces its Delta IEM in-ear noise isolating #earphones to the UK.

Brainwavz – the Delta IEM in-ear noise isolating earphones. For just over £20 /$27.50, they deliver a great sound and don’t break the bank! No available in the UK.

Global audio specialist Brainwavz, established in 2008 with a focus on offering high quality products at a competitive price, today announces the availability of its Delta IEM Noise Isolating Earphones in the UK. The Delta IEM are the latest in the Brainwavz range of over 25 earphones and headphones and have already received acclaim from U.S website The Wirecutter who picked them as the best in-ear earphones for under $40. The Delta IEM represent great value at £20.27 /$27.50, fromwww.brainwavzaudio.com

Image converted using ifftoany

The Brainwavz Delta produce vocals and instruments with detailed clarity, ensuring music sounds just as the artist intended. With dynamic 8mm drivers encased in an all metal housing, the Delta earphones are tuned to pair with all genres of music. Together with a multi-function 3 button microphone and remote, the Deltas deliver perfect audio sound and clarity whether used for general music listening or for audio calls.

Whilst most other earphones available for a similar price make a compromise on sound quality, the Delta with its balanced bass do not with The Wirecutter commenting, “The Brainwavz have a sense of space that makes music sound like a concert happening in front of you. This is a sign of higher quality drivers.“

For the excellent price, the Delta IEM noise isolation earphones also come with a hard case, 3 sets of silicon ear tips (small, medium and large) as well as a set of S-400 Comply foam tips and a shirt clip and Velcro cable tie to ensure maximum comfort and positioning whilst listening to music or taking a phone call.

Brainwavz continues to add to its following of loyal fans with its reputation for affordable audio products of great quality, value for money and superb after sales service. The Delta IEM isolating earphones with microphone & remote hope to increase this fan base further in the UK.

Brainwavz also have a fantastic range of audio accessories including headphone memory foam earpads for extra comfort on both Brainwavz or other branded headphones here and headphone hangers and storage solutions here.  We also have reviewed some of their products which you will find using the search bar be sure to check them out.

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Drivers: Dynamic, 8 mm
  • Rated Impedance: 16 Ω
  • Frequency Range: 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz
  • Sensitivity: 100 dB at 1 mW   
  • Rated Input Power: 20 mW
  • Cable: 1.3 m Y-Cord, Copper
  • Plug: 3.5 mm, Gold Plated

 

MULTI-FUNCTION 3 BUTTON MICROPHONE & REMOTE:

  • Supports Apple iOS & Android Products
  • Phone Call Control
  • Audio Player Control
  • Volume Control
  • Supports TRRS Connector

 

INCLUDED ACCESSORIES:

  • Earphone Hard case
  • 3 sets of Silicone Ear Tips (S M L)
  • 1 set of Comply Foam Tips S-400
  • 1 Shirt Clip
  • Velcro Cable Tie   
  • Instruction Manual
  • Warranty Card (24 month warranty)

 

Review – Gadgetpro 360 degree mobile phone holder from @homestoreNmore #accessories #mobile

It is the simple things in life that we seem to ignore but they have been looking at us in the face a long long time. 

I got quite a few tech gifts for Christmas which is nothing new but this year I bought a few bits I will emphasise on some more due to the fact I said I can live without them but thought maybe they would be useful rather than MEH, and one of them is the gadgetpro phone holder which turns out to be useful,this is primarily ideal depending on ones personal setup and certainly for the bedroom on your locker, it keeps yout hands free..

Example being I like to watch some You tube when I go to bed for a while but I constantly have my phone in the had which is a pain in the backside to be honest but this just eliminates it. You could also use it for cooking,reading the news or social and perhaps food menus and clip it on to your counter just some example of to its many uses.

This can also clip on to your table or laptop itself if you have big bezels and not to interfeer to much with screen. It really is simple and easy to use with two parts in the box. You get the cable that is adjustable to move in any way possible and the clip to hold your device which holds nearly any smartphone out there but its also solid but it does get a bit less robust in its power and is a bit springy on touch depending on how straight the cable is so its best to keep it more coiled for a stable environment.

Overall thoughts, its a nice simple idea that is cost effective and useful and for sure it will make things a bit easier for me at home and keep my hands off my phone for a bit longer as its always attached to me in some form so its a good thing in general. The good feature is that the grips both on the phone holder and mount itself are padded well which will not damage the surfaces its connected too and its a snap in ball joint for the phone holder which also can be adjusted to your personal needs.. For three EURO you cant fucking complain.

If you got some new tech tell us what you think about it.

Buy here http://www.homestoreandmore.ie/mobile-phone-accessories/gadgetpro-flexible-mobile-holder/invt/073131

 

Bag a free @Polaroid printer when you buy the #Nokia8 from @VodafoneIreland

The Nokia 8 flagship has recently got some poor reports of its camera prowess from DxOMark which got mixed results from the public and my take on it from using the device in the real world is that it takes brilliant photos and I dont use it in confined spaces like labs to carry out tests, tests we have seen before which have been rediculed giving statements to phones at launch events before its been even used in the public or real world tests but that is an arguement for another day and I call bulshit on their test result, it takes great pictures and here is just one below to prove and you can read a take on this report from our good friends over at NokiaMob.  

https://twitter.com/techbuzzireland/status/940249915443306502

Polaroid is making a comeback this year and make no mistake you will see many folk sporting their portable printers or similar gadjets this year and I can see myself being one of them for sure.

Vodafone are now giving a FREE polaroid ZIP INSTANT printer when you buy the Nokia 8 which is available until Jan 31st 2016, here you can read the FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS which are simple and straight forward.

The deal is available online and instore so you have options to choose from which is good and its not limited to online only. Our review of the Nokia 8 will be up in the coming days but in short its a great phone for the money and you cant go wrong.  If this deal suits your needs you can head HERE to check it out..  Also Nokia have an offer too with a free ZEISS VR ONE headset. We will be talking about that some more soon. 

Hatip Liam Burke 

 

Review – The Lightwave Smarthome Pack. #Smarthome #Lightwave #Tech

The Lightwave Link Plus, Smart Dimmer L21 and Lightwave Smart Socket 2 gang provides the technology to monitor and control lighting, power and heating whether you are in the home, or out and about, using a smart-phone, tablet or PC. These are beneficial features if used for security to ensure lights etc are turned on / off as required.

This can be used at your choice of timing or sitting indoors for a romantic night adjusting the lights from the couch. This model is Apple HomeKit compatibility, 2-way communication, built-in energy monitoring. The dimmer and socket can be fitted DIY installation with no extra cabling or specific tools.

 The Link Plus as a hub on its own this does not do much, while part of the overall system connected to the Lightwave products, it can integrate with other products seamlessly to allow you to control dimmer or sockets.  

UNBOXING

 

Specification: Lightwave Smart Dimmer L21

  • RF frequency: 868 MHz
  • Input rating: 230V~ 50Hz
  • Output rating: 350W max
  • Incandescent Load:  10W min 350W max
  • Back Box Depth:  35mm min
  • Earthing Requirement: Not essential (double insulated)
  • Standby Energy Use: Less than 1W
  • Wiring: Neutral wire NOT required
  • Warranty: 2-year standard warranty
  • Circuit Type:non-SELVS

The Lightwave Smart Dimmer L21 comes in a sturdy box, these can be legally DIY installed in your home but if in doubt contact a qualified electrician

 

Lightwave Smart Socket (2 Gang)

What’s in the Box

  • Spacer (0.39 in./10 mm)
  • Instruction guide
  • Tech Specs

Other Features: HomeKit Compatible, Wireless

  • Internet Access: Internet Access Required
  • Connections: Wireless
  • Power Source: AC
  • Height: 3.46 in./8.8 cm
  • Width: 5.91 in./15 cm
  • Depth: 1.18 in./3 cm

CONTENTS GALLERY

 

Installation:

Installation was quite easy with a basic knowledge of electricity required, ensuring all safety precautions are taken, especially turning off the mains electricity supply before setup.  This installation involved replacing the light switch in the room, then controlling the switch from a mobile app. Setting up the Lightwave Link Plus to the dimmer & Smart Socket (2 gang) was straightforward. The App again was straightforward to setup and use.

INSTALLATION GALLERY

The most important part of the kit from an installation point of view – is the Wiring: Neutral wire is NOT required. The Neutral wire is not used in the UK / Ireland. Some brands require the Neutral wire to be used resulting in a difficult installation wiring back to the fuse board. There are some minimum tools required without the need for specialised tools.

The Link Plus gateway is powering via microUSB, and then plugging into the ethernet, from here you will set up the device via your mobile. You need a Lightwave account which is added the Link Plus using the code on the back of it. The setup took about 5 minutes to set up once the manual wiring was done. It would be recommended prior to any changes in the wiring, to take photos of the original setup as a fall-back position.

Observation:

The original dimmer switch physically had a small electronic block in the switch, the Lightwave contained a bigger electronics circuit resulting in difficulty fitting into the unit. An extra packing at the back of the unit was used to push out the unit to allow the electronics to physically fit into the socket.

 

The Lightwave Link Plus is light weight with a green light around the box, this is ok during the day but impractical at night, with the glow radiation the complete room, (annoying in the dark). The Lightwave Link Plus must be placed out of sight as there is no way to remove the green glow. The dimmer switch has a blue light when powered on and a red light when off, this may be a minor distraction for some if used when sleeping.

THE APP ITSELF

 

LightwaveRF Home Automation app:

The app was developed in Birmingham and downloaded as normal via the Play store. The LightwaveRF Smart Home Platform allows you to monitor and control lighting, power and heating whether you are in the home, or out and about, using a smart-phone, tablet or PC.

 

Assessment:

A survey revealing that 24% of UK homes now contain a smart home device of some sort, Convenience and peace of mind are the two driving forces behind the 135% year-on-year increase in smart home device sales, according to a new survey by technology retailer Maplin.

 

The Lightwave support is based in the UK (while manufactured in China), this ensures support is familiar with local wiring standards which is a great plus if requiring support. This would be a strong consideration if looking for a DIY smart home solution. The Lightwave solution will not break the bank as compared to a professional installed system been relatively easy to install will a little electrical knowledge. This has the main features of a professional system which is expanding with the app.

 

There are options to monitor, control and schedule lighting, power and heating requirements by individual room. Alternatively, setup moods by room for lighting and power or complex events to turn on or off multiple devices across many rooms with one button.

“Smart homes” integrate technology to optimize and control utilities, electronics, and security systems. If you plan on been part of this growth area, looking for an affordable solution, easy to fit with a user-friendly interface, support ability to automate and customise, then the Lightwave system is certainly the way to go.

 SEE MORE AT  https://lightwaverf.com/control

STM Goods & Element Case Enhance the Customer Experience . #AR #CES2018

The Australian-based designer and producer of inventive bags, cases, and tech accessories has unveiled its use of augmented reality (AR) at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

At the world’s preeminent exhibition of new products and technologies CES2018, STM Brands has showcased the latest products from the parent company’s two arms, STM Goods and Element Case. They’ll use groundbreaking technology to give consumers an entirely new way to explore the features and benefits of their backpacks and mobile phone cases.  We have been reviewing and using STM products for some time now and find their products notable and also robust and they last well and in fact serve us well still to this day.

 

Using computer-generated sound, video, and graphics to enhance a real-world setting, AR creates an interactive “experience” for the user.

“AR will change the way people interact with our products,” said STM Brands chief executive Ethan Nyholm. “Backpacks have traditionally been one of the toughest products to showcase in stores, unless a trained salesperson is there to demonstrate the special aspects of the merchandise which typically isn’t the case. Now, thanks to AR, individual customers can see a demonstration of a product’s key features come to life before their eyes.”

 

AR is also the ideal way to exhibit and explain the intricacies of Element Case products—premium protective cases for mobile phones that have numerous detailed features. 

 “Element Case is all about advanced engineering, high-grade materials and touches that maximise user convenience,” Nyholm said. “By bringing an interactive experience with the cases to the customer, we can take detailed and often complicated messaging about a product’s attributes and make it an easier-to-grasp, visual explanation.”

The STM augmented reality experience operates through a specially-created app that customers can download from iTunes. Different apps have been created for the STM Goods and Element Case brands. 

“Point of sale product marketing has always been about what you can print to make for an eye-catching display and how to support that with informative collateral” Nyholm said. “We’re leveraging today’s technology to go beyond what’s long been the expected in the shopping aisle and at the rack. It’s the future of marketing and we want to be at the cutting edge.”

For full information on the apps for STM and Element Case please head to: http://www.stmgoods.com.au/stm-app

https://www.elementcase.com/

 

PlayLink for PS4 – An exciting new range of games that’s transforming social gatherings

PlayLink is the latest innovation exclusive to PS4, allowing players to use their smartphones and tablets without the need for multiple controllers. PlayLink games are designed to be played in a group setting, encouraging a truly fun and immersive multiplayer experience.

PlayLink brings more players into the games and allows for social gaming that everyone can enjoy. PlayLink games turn your smartphone or tablet into a versatile controller. Players can interact using their smart phone or tablet in unique ways with each title – tilt, tap, shake, swipe, sing and shout in this varied range of games, which are not only easy to jump into but also challenging enough for some serious game nights. The collection of PlayLink games vary from gritty crime thrillers to quick-fire quizzes. Simply download the free companion app to your smartphone or tablet and ensure your PS4 hooked up to a TV and you are ready to play.

With party season around the corner, these new PlayLink games are just the thing to liven up your parties, or break out during family gatherings. There’s a game to suit all occasions and can be enjoyed by all skill levels and ages – (as the PEGI ratings allow).

That’s You! is an audacious comedy quiz which challenges up to six friends to get personal and find out what you really think about each other. Featuring over 1,000 varied questions, participants can reveal their daring side by taking part in doodle challenges and snapping selfies.

Knowledge is Power is a game all about speed and accuracy in the face of some wickedly crafted distractions from your opponents. Participants must answer a variety of trivia questions to try and outsmart their opponents, with some fun power plays and challenges thrown in to keep everyone on their toes, this is a great game for social gatherings.

Hidden Agenda is a narrative-driven adventure that drops participants right into the centre of this chilling detective thriller, which is rife with moral dilemmas that may determine life or death. Up to six participants can join in to make tough decisions about how the story unfolds, but one participant will have a hidden agenda…

Frantics is an arcade-style game where up to four participants face off in a variety of challenges. Bluff, battle, negotiate and co-operate your way to victory, but beware – mischievous host The Fox is also on hand to stir things up.

SingStar Celebration

Whether it’s your birthday, Christmas, New Year’s Eve or even just a Saturday night – SingStar Celebration is the perfect playlist to any party, with up to eight players able to join in the fun. Use your SingStar mic or combine your smartphone to start belting out your favorite party classics.

PlayLink for PS4 games start from €19.99 RRP each and available from stockists nationwide.

X-mini unveil their latest range of audio devices at #CES2018 #Xmini

The Award winning brand, which first revolutionised the portable speaker market with its X-mini Capsule Speakers, will introduce four new products in addition to its existing range launched in June last year. These include hybrid speaker headphones, X-mini EVOLVE 2, portable 360° 3D surround sound speaker, X-mini™ INFINITI S, and portable waterproof speakers, X-mini XOUNDBAR W and X-mini  KAI X1 W.

The brand, which first burst onto the scene in 2007 with its iconic capsule speakers, revolutionised the industry with its designs, and kicked off an entire new product category globally called the portable speaker. It continues to do the same with products such as the hybrid speaker headphones X-mini EVOLVE series and the premium 360° 3D surround sound X-mini INFINITI series.

“There is an increasing consumption of music, and in a report released by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, streaming growth has increased steadily between 2012 and 2016, with a 60.4% increase between 2015 and 2016. As such, audio manufacturers need to keep up with the consumer need of having music wherever and whenever they want,” states Ryan Lee, Co-founder of X-mini™. “As market leaders in innovative audio design and engineering, we strive to break new grounds constantly and provide our users with great audio solutions that meets their lifestyles.”
X-mini™ INFINITI S

The X-mini™ INFINITI S is a portable 360° 3D surround sound speaker. Housing four drivers, one dedicated subwoofer, and built-in DPAC and DSP audio technologies, the X-mini™ INFINITI S is designed to disperse immersive high quality sound in all directions. With a compact form-factor and a removable genuine leather strap, enjoy added portability with the X-mini™ INFINITI S. It also comes with a HDMI port, that allows the speaker to be connected to home entertainment devices for high definition audio, and is an alternative to soundbars on the market. The X-mini™ INFINITI S comes with built-in USB Type-C port for fast-charging. The X-mini™ INFINITI S will be available in Q3 2018, at a suggested retail price of US $399.

X-mini™ EVOLVE 2 

The second-generation X-mini™ EVOLVE 2 returns with improved design features. Dual Bluetooth and AUX-in connectivity provides added flexibility for constant music on-the-go. The versatile speaker headphones comes with a built-in swivel and leather ear pads with memory foam to improve noise isolation and give extra comfort. The hybrid speaker headphones features quad drivers, and a bass port for enhanced audio in speaker mode. The headset also includes aptX audio technology, for improved audio and video synchronisation over Bluetooth. The X-mini™ EVOLVE 2 will be available in Q2 2018, at a suggested retail price of US $149.

X-mini™ XOUNDBAR W 

The X-mini™ XOUNDBAR W comes in a slim, pocket-designed form factor, making it easy to slip into the pocket. Housing dual 36mm audio drivers, enjoy full-range stereo sound with the X-mini™ XOUNDBAR W. It is an IPX7 waterproof certified ultra portable Bluetooth speaker, which can submerge in water for up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. The X-mini™ KAI X1 W also comes with a built-in camera mount, which can be fixed to a bicycle handle or tripod for a fuss-free outdoor audio experience. The X-mini™ XOUNDBAR W will be available in Q2 2018, at a suggested retail price of US $45.90.

 X-mini™ KAI X1 W  

The X-mini™ KAI X1 W comes with a large 50mm driver for quality sound beyond size. With an IPX7 waterproof certified rating, the portable speaker can be submerged underwater for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter. With an in-built camera mount, the X-mini™ KAI X1 W can be fixed to a bicycle handle or tripod for a fuss-free outdoor audio experience. The X-mini™ KAI X1 W will be available in Q2 2018, at a suggested retail price of US $54.90.