Keeping your space tidy can be a challenge and for me it is a daily one due to my work and all the products around I have in for review and this applies to my work space and my bedside locked which I have some control of as I keep the tech to a minimum there with mostly what is in line for review as for me that includes earbuds and headphones and so on so it is important to have something to minimize the space use and this product fro X/Layout is one to help me out called the X-Plant.
The product is well built and solid and can do multiple things at once and it also has a space for storing your headphones, this part however does not charge them there is also a shelf behind the see- through panels to store small items which is neat and there is two shelves here which can be removed, there is 5 light effects inside this panel too that gives it a nice effect.
You can charge you mobile phones and earbuds and other compatible products which is hand and up to 10watts of power is available, there is then a small branch like structure on the end which is made with quality material and you can hang your keys or smartwatches there, this can be used to hold other products and for me it will be my smartwatches which gives me simple access and walk away and the same for putting them on.
Creative Technology today announced the release of the Creative Live! Audio A3, the latest USB audio interface poised to transform the way users experience audio in their creative pursuits. Featuring high-resolution 24-bit recording and playback, versatile I/O connectivity, onboard level controls, and zero-latency direct monitoring, the Creative Live! Audio A3 serves as an essential tool for live streamers, content creators, and musicians seeking professional-grade audio quality.
The Creative Live! Audio A3 stands out with its high-resolution 24-bit recording and playback capabilities, ensuring that users experience exceptional audio clarity and fidelity for all types of content, from music to podcasts and voiceovers. Moreover, the 3.5 mm Mobile Audio I/O Jack minimizes caller input disruptions during remote interviews and podcast recordings, which allows users to seamlessly mix-minus audio to mobile devices while maintaining crystal-clear communication.
Elevate your sound and simplify your craft with the Creative Live! Audio A3
Tailored for a diverse range of users, the Creative Live! Audio A3 caters to the needs of musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. It comes equipped with dual headphone jacks, each with individual volume controls, enabling users to fine-tune their listening experience. Furthermore, the interface includes a dual combo jack featuring a built-in mic preamp and Hi-Z switch, ensuring seamless compatibility with microphones, line-level devices, and instruments. On top of that, the integration of balanced stereo outputs eliminates common issues like electromagnetic interference to deliver clearer sound quality.
With the Creative Live! Audio A3, users can enjoy comprehensive audio control right at their fingertips with individual output and input volume controls, complemented by user-friendly indicators that make audio adjustments a breeze. Moreover, the zero-latency direct monitoring offers immediate sound feedback, a standout feature that strikes a chord with live streamers and musicians alike.
With high-resolution recording, seamless mobile audio integration, and intuitive controls, the Creative Live! Audio A3 shines as the ultimate audio solution for live streamers, content creators, and musicians looking to take their craft to the next level.
Pricing and Availability
Creative Live! Audio A3 is priced at US$299.99, UK£329.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/LiveAudioA3
Recently on techbuzzireland we checked out the Final ZE 8000 true wireless earbuds which are for the high end audio enthusiasts out there and they are an exceptional pair of earbuds and you should check them out, this time around the company is catering for the gamers out there, not something I do much but do have time now and then to enjoy the many consoles I own and actually use them.
The Final VR2000 earphones will be a welcome addition for the gamers out there and you can read more about them over here and today we take a first look at the latest product on offer so in the interim while we test them out do feel free to ask any questions you might have and we will gladly answer as always.
Specifications
Housing: ABS
Driver Type: 6mm ‘fCore DU’ Dynamic Driver
Colour: Olive Green
Cable: OFC with in-line microphone
Cable Length: 1.2m
Sensitivity: 102dB
Impedance: 18Ω
Weight: 20g
The Final VR2000 are now available for £59.99/$69.99/€67.99 from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide.
In support of international ‘Restart a Heart’ day, Dublin Fire Brigade unveils fourteen new Public Access Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) located prominently outside each of its fire stations across the city and county. This is a significant step forward in enhancing community safety and will be available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance especially during critical moments when every second counts. These AEDs will guide an untrained person through Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation, with voice prompts and encouragement while paramedics make their way to the patient and guidance is provided by Emergency Service Controllers over the 999/112 call.
The installation of the AEDs was prompted by an incident which happened outside Finglas fire station in January of this year. Pauline Ryan suffered a cardiac arrest in Finglas village while she was a passenger in a car being driven by her sister, who had the presence of mind to pull in to the fire station. At the time, the fire appliance, ambulance and all their medical equipment were out at another call, co-incidently, another Cardiac Arrest. Fortunately, the District Officer and a Firefighter/Paramedic were in the station and were able to perform life-saving CPR on Pauline until the arrival of colleagues from Phibsborough Fire Station, who were able to successfully defibrillate and resuscitate Pauline.
There is a simultaneous unveiling of the AEDs across all fourteen locations, and we are joined at Finglas Fire Station by Dublin Lord Mayor Daithí de Róiste. Speaking at the launch the Lord Mayor said, “I’m honoured to unveil the Public Access Defibrillator here at Finglas Fire Station, and to be part of the simultaneous launch of thirteen other AEDs across the city. The life-saving piece of equipment is a positive addition to the local community and to the people of Dublin.”
Dublin’s Chief Fire Officer is represented today by Assistant Chief Fire Officer Greg O’Dwyer who commented, “The Firefighter/Paramedics and Officers of Dublin Fire Brigade recognise the fire, rescue and medical role they provide in the wider community but also their closest neighbours to our 14 stations. Obviously we hope that these AEDs never have to be used, but we also hope that the installation of the AEDs provide some piece of mind and reassurance to our neighbours or commuters who pass our stations.”
Pauline, whose medical emergency prompted the installation of the AEDs joined with the Firefighters at the launch. Pauline said, “Only for the quick actions of my sister, the two firefighters in Finglas fire station and their colleagues from Phibsborough, I may not be here today. To them I am forever grateful. Knowing what I know now, I would encourage everyone from a young age to learn CPR. It is a life skill, literally“
This initiative aligns with Dublin Fire Brigade’s dedication to proactive community engagement and safety. By having these AEDs at our fire stations, we aim to bridge the gap between emergency services and the public fostering a sense of unity and co-operation within our great city. Dublin Fire Brigade encourages members of the community to take a course in CPR and the use of an AED. Visit www.irishheart.ie for a list of available “Heartsaver AED and CPR” courses in your area.
The AEDs are located outside each of the fourteen fire stations in a heated secure box. Members of the public can access the defibrillators by calling 999/112 stating their location. Simultaneously medical help will be dispatched and guidance will be given over the phone.
Over the past decade, almost 20 million meals, or 7,900 tonnes of food, have been redistributed to people living in food insecurity across Ireland, thanks to Tesco Ireland’s Surplus Food Donations Programme. On average, Tesco Ireland redistributes and donates up to 40,000 meals every week to over 350 charities across the country.
New research commissioned by FoodCloud, a social enterprise with a mission to transform surplus food into opportunities, shows that families with children are the single largest group of people accessing donations from Tesco Ireland’s Food Surplus Redistribution programme.
According to the study, conducted in July of this year, families with children make up almost half (47%) of all those accessing food donations, while three quarters (75%) of community groups, who distribute surplus food, report that they have experienced an increased demand for food in the last six months.
In ten years of partnership, diverting this surplus food from going to waste to those in Irish communities who need it, Tesco has significantly reduced emissions associated with the processing of this waste.
Working with FoodCloud and Olio, as well as over 350 local charitable and voluntary groups nationwide, Tesco redistributes surplus food at the end of each day to those who need it most in our communities. This food is perfectly edible but because it is nearing its use by date, it will be removed from the shelves in store. Typical donations comprise fruit and vegetables, bakery goods, meat and more.
In 2013, Tesco Ireland became the first retailer to partner nationally with FoodCloud, and this year the two organisations are celebrating 10 years of working together. The programme, which began in one Tesco Express store on Talbot Street in Dublin city, is now in operation across Ireland, and has since expanded into the UK, Czechia, and Slovakia.
Marking this important milestone, Tesco Ireland Communications Director, Rosemary Garth said: “We are very proud of what has been achieved since we launched our national Surplus Food Donations Programme 10 years ago. As a grocery retailer we have no time for waste and are absolutely committed to ensuring that no good food goes to waste when there are people in our communities who need it.
Since we launched this programme, which is powered by our partners FoodCloud and Olio, we have provided almost 20 million meals to the most vulnerable in our communities. This has enabled the charitable and voluntary sector in Ireland to reduce their food bills by over €23 million, which, according to FoodCloud, has empowered them to invest in providing an even greater level of support services in towns and cities nationwide”.
Co-founder of FoodCloud, Aoibheann O’Brien said: “Tesco’s commitment to eliminating edible food waste from their stores has positioned us as a global leader in tackling food waste. Through our strong partnership with Tesco, we have continued to grow our impact, innovate, and push boundaries around what is possible around food redistribution. We have worked together to reduce food waste for 10 years, expanding across four countries.”
In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven business world, entrepreneurs are constantly seeking innovative solutions to drive growth and success. Human resources, a cornerstone of any organization, has not been immune to this transformation. The integration of HR technology has proven to be a game-changer, allowing entrepreneurs to streamline processes, enhance employee experiences, and ultimately foster business growth. In this blog post, we will explore how entrepreneurs leverage HR technology to optimize their workforce and achieve long-term success.
Transforming Workforce Solutions
One of the fundamental ways in which entrepreneurs are leveraging HR technology is by transforming workforce solutions. In the past, managing employee data, payroll, and benefits could be time-consuming and error-prone. With the advent of cloud-based HR platforms, entrepreneurs can now effortlessly take advantage of workforce solutions and manage employee information, track attendance, and process payroll with unprecedented accuracy. This not only reduces administrative overhead but also allows entrepreneurs to allocate their resources more strategically.
Being on top of the most efficient financial solutions gives entrepreneurs a major advantage in today’s competitive market. Expert services can help you keep up with the top trends shaping global payroll which allows for better compliance, flexibility and strategic workforce planning. These trends often include automation, real-time reporting and tailored tax solutions that meet country-specific regulations. Adopting these innovations can lead to smoother expansion and improved employee satisfaction across multiple regions.
Enhancing Recruitment and Talent Acquisition
Recruiting top talent is crucial for business growth, and HR technology plays a pivotal role in this regard. Entrepreneurs are increasingly turning to applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI-powered tools to streamline the recruitment process. These systems can sift through resumes, identify the best candidates, and even predict which applicants are most likely to succeed in the organization. Such enhancements in recruitment efficiency not only save time but also improve the quality of the workforce, directly impacting business performance. This, combined with consulting expert HR services, ensures that businesses not only find the right candidates but also enhance their overall recruitment strategy.
Empowering Employee Engagement
Employee engagement is the heart of any successful business. Entrepreneurs recognize the significance of keeping their employees motivated and satisfied. HR technology enables them to do just that. Tools like employee self-service portals, regular feedback surveys, and recognition programs are now more accessible than ever. These platforms empower employees, improve communication, and help build a positive workplace culture that directly influences business growth.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
Entrepreneurs are increasingly relying on data-driven decision-making, and HR technology provides them with the necessary insights. Through advanced analytics, HR platforms can provide invaluable information about employee performance, turnover rates, and more. This data allows entrepreneurs to make informed decisions related to resource allocation, talent development, and organizational strategies, all of which contribute to business growth.
Streamlining Compliance and Risk Management
Ensuring compliance with ever-evolving labor laws and regulations can be a significant challenge for entrepreneurs. HR technology offers features such as automated reporting, real-time compliance monitoring, and even predictive analytics to identify potential compliance risks. By automating these processes, entrepreneurs can focus on their core business activities while reducing legal liabilities and associated risks.
Continuous Learning and Development
Investing in employee development is a key driver of business growth. HR technology has made it easier for entrepreneurs to create learning and development programs that are tailored to individual employee needs. This includes e-learning platforms, personalized training recommendations, and performance tracking. By upskilling their workforce, entrepreneurs can adapt to changing market demands and stay competitive.
Remote Work and Flexibility
Remote work and flexibility have become integral aspects of modern work environments, greatly influenced by the evolving landscape of business operations and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift represents a fundamental change in how entrepreneurs manage their workforce. HR technology plays a pivotal role in facilitating remote work and fostering flexibility. It enables entrepreneurs to effectively manage geographically dispersed teams, monitor productivity through remote work tracking tools, and ensure employees have the necessary digital infrastructure for seamless remote collaboration. This newfound flexibility not only benefits employees by improving work-life balance but also allows businesses to tap into a broader talent pool by accommodating remote workers. As a result, entrepreneurs are not only responding to current demands but also preparing for the future by embracing this new work paradigm, which contributes to business growth and resilience in an ever-changing world.
Employee Wellbeing and Benefits
Employee wellbeing and benefits are vital components of a successful business strategy, and HR technology plays a crucial role in ensuring effective management. With the help of advanced HR platforms, entrepreneurs can offer a wide range of benefits tailored to their employees’ needs, whether it’s comprehensive healthcare coverage, flexible work arrangements, or mental health support. These platforms also provide the tools to track employee wellbeing, enabling employers to proactively address any issues that may arise. By prioritizing employee wellbeing and benefits, entrepreneurs not only foster a healthier, more satisfied workforce but also boost productivity, reduce turnover, and enhance their organization’s overall reputation – all of which contribute to sustainable business growth.
The adoption of HR technology is not just a trend; it is a necessity in optimizing workforce solutions, enhancing recruitment, empowering employee engagement, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. By embracing these innovative tools, entrepreneurs are better equipped to navigate challenges, adapt to change, and ultimately fuel their business growth. As HR technology continues to evolve, entrepreneurs must remain agile and open to new solutions, ensuring they remain competitive in the ever-changing business world.
Ireland’s Midlands is set to become an increasingly important ICT hub, new research published today suggests. According to the Midlands ICT Cluster Skills Survey, regional companies expect to create up to 800 new ICT jobs over the next 3 years, in addition to over 3,000 already employed across the region.
The research was carried out by the Midlands Regional Skills Forum, an industry and education partnership, on behalf of the Midlands ICT Cluster. A key finding from the forum was that currently over 70% of companies responding have critical vacancies. Opportunities exist for people with skills in the following areas:
Cloud computing and software development (sought by 50% of respondents).
Data analytics, AI and machine learning (40%)
Cyber security, networking, IT service management and project management (25%).
Ms. Sinéad Pillion, Head of Operations for Ericsson and Industry Chair of the Midlands ICT Cluster Steering Committee, said, “The launch of the Midlands ICT Cluster Skills Survey highlights the genuine opportunities that exist supporting the already strong ICT ecosystem in the region. With 93% of participants anticipating growth in the next three years there will be significant job growth in tech for the Midlands. Meeting this demand will require the ongoing collaboration between the regional skills forum and businesses.”
Dr. Anne Cusack, Chair of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Steering Committee, stated, “the results of the ICT Cluster Skills Survey can be seen as a great opportunity for the overall growth of the Midlands region. Attracting further talent to the Midlands while also enhancing the existing talented workforce living in the region is a priority for both the steering committee and local businesses.”
Mr. John Costello from the Midlands Regional Skills Forum who conducted the survey on skills, talent and education, commented on the findings, “the results contain a strong endorsement of work, being carried out across the region, to enhance the level of skills available, from extensive schools programmes, to ICT career pathways, and third level qualifications. Most notably by the fact that 60% of businesses anticipate being able to hire from the pool of talented people already living in the region.”
The survey aligns with Future Jobs Ireland’s strategic message, with a focus on skills and talent. The survey sought to identify critical vacancies, key skills needs, and other related strengths, weaknesses. opportunities, and threats (SWOT) relevant to the Midlands ICT Cluster. The survey was undertaken on behalf of the Midlands ICT Cluster by the Skills & Talent Working Group and the Midlands Regional Skills Forum.
Square Root Solutions, Ireland’s app development company of the year, has partnered with Ireland’s on-demand creative studio, Factory44 to launch Ireland’s Start-App Competition, offering early-stage start-ups and entrepreneurs the chance to win a €20,000 prize package to bring creative apps or website concepts to fruition.
The Start-App Competition provides a platform for developers to bridge the gap between ideation and execution, helping them to deliver apps and websites that are intuitive, user-friendly, and customer-centric. The top 10 applicants will be invited to present their concept to a panel of judges comprising esteemed members of Ireland’s business community at Factory44’s brand new facility in the heart of Dublin city. In addition to assessing the bonafides of the participating individuals and teams, judges will grade submissions through the lens of scalability, product viability and market demand.
The €20,000 prize package includes mentorship from industry experts and the opportunity to work closely with Square Root Solutions’ leading developers to scope, design and develop an app/website prototype worth €15,000, featuring the essential functionalities needed to demonstrate the concept to prospective customers and investors. Additionally, the winning project will receive a one year membership to Factory44’s creative hub (worth €4,500), granting them unlimited, on-demand access to a dedicated team of experienced creatives, designers, and strategists, as well as invites to exclusive member-only events. As part of the prize package, a showcase article on the winning concept will also be published in Startups Magazine, a dedicated media outlet for tech startups and industry disruptors. Interested parties can apply here. The deadline to submit applications is 30th November.
Factory44 is a membership-based hub of creative solutions catering to the diverse and time-sensitive content needs of businesses at every stage of development. Powered by a state-of-the-art studio and equipment suite, the company’s full-scope of content creation services includes podcasting, videography and photography, with additional packages for copywriting, video editing, strategic digital consultancy, graphic and web design, as well as social media management.
Square Root Solutions is a multi award winning app development company with offices in Dublin, Cork and Kilkenny. Recently named App Development Company of the Year for the second consecutive year by the All-Ireland Business Foundation, Square Root Solutions provides comprehensive and cost-effective website and mobile app development services to startups and established brands worldwide.
Robbie Phelan, Co-Founder of Factory44 said: “We’re delighted to launch Ireland’s Start-App Competition, which will serve as an incubator for high-potential start-ups and innovative ideas. Through our partnership with Square Root Solutions, we are providing a unique springboard for entrepreneurs to fast-track development and growth. I believe fortune favours the brave, and we’re encouraging individuals and teams to think outside the box and explore novel concepts that will impress our panel of judges.”
Ciaran Stone, CEO of Square Root Solutions said: “With the Start-App Competition, we want to nurture Ireland’s entrepreneurial talent and help inspire a wave of creative app and website development. To date, Square Root Solutions has worked with over 300 startups, so we know exactly what it takes to help bring a concept from ideation to market. We’re really looking forward to receiving applications from a diverse pool of participants across Ireland’s vibrant startup community.”
Final, the Japanese high-end audio specialist, has announced their latest venture into the world of gaming and VR with the new VR2000 earphones.
For close to five decades, Final has long proven their mastery of all things hi-fi. Starting in 1974 with the development of high-end turntable cartridges, amplifies and CD transports, and more recently moving onto portable audio with their award-winning headphone and earphone models – final’s experience and insight is unmatched.
With the VR2000 Final has turned its attention to gamers, VR users and the captivating world of ASMR and immersive audio. Using newly designed ‘f-Core DU’ custom-made dynamic 6mm drivers developed in-house, final has been able to tune the VR2000 to extract every detail from your digital surroundings.
Whether playing a first-person shooter, exploring virtual worlds, relaxing to mediative ASMR or listening to a live jazz recording – the VR2000 will transport you into the heart of the action and deliver an experience like never before with no sound going unheard.
Hear distant footsteps and gunfire as though you were in battle yourself. Feel every reaction from a stadium full of thousands of spectators. Transport yourself to a 1970’s jazz club and hear every note played as though you were there.
A Wealth of Applications
Primarily designed for gaming and VR, the VR2000 can also be utilised to get the most out of live recordings, intricate electronic music, ASMR and the latest advancements in Dolby Atmos technology. Unlike typical earphones, the VR2000 has been designed to provide a spatial listening experience with a naturally vast soundstage and the ability to hear each and every sound individually separated with absolute clarity.
This attention to detail and separation lends itself most effectively to gamers – especially those involved within a competitive domain. The ability to react in-game is heavily reliant on the quality of the audio, and the speed at which users notice sound effects that have been produced for this very reason. The VR2000 is able to separate each sound and simultaneously deliver them accurately, and naturally, within its expansive soundstage.
‘f-Core DU’ Custom-Made Dynamic Driver
With the ‘f-Core DU’ driver, Final has managed to achieve a quality of sound that is unheard of in this price range. Completely redesigning driver parts such as diaphragms, voice coils, magnets, magnetic circuits, and adhesives, as well as production equipment. The material of the driver front housing is brass, which is less affected by magnetic force and has a higher specific gravity than general aluminium. In order to improve the time response performance of the diaphragm, the voice coil uses 30μ ultra-fine CCAW and is assembled with a minimum amount of adhesive to thoroughly reduce the weight of the moving parts.
Further developments in housing design have resulted in a uniquely attractive appearance and comfortable fit for the VR2000. Shells made from ABS plastic provides durability, and the OFC cable is covered in a tough and flexible coating with an in-line 3 button control with a high-quality built-in microphone – ideal for online gaming, streaming and taking calls.
The VR2000 comes supplied with a number of accessories including a selection of final Type E silicon eartips, earhooks for added support, and a carry pouch for safe storage.
Specifications
Housing: ABS
Driver Type: 6mm ‘fCore DU’ Dynamic Driver
Colour: Olive Green
Cable: OFC with in-line microphone
Cable Length: 1.2m
Sensitivity: 102dB
Impedance: 18Ω
Weight: 20g
The Final VR2000 will be available to buy on the 15th of October for £59.99/$69.99/€67.99 from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide.
