Review – The Pan/Tilt Home Security Wi-Fi Camera Tapo C200 #Tech #Security

Review by Liam Burke.  The Tapo C200 is indoor security/monitoring camera from TP-Link. During my review I mainly used as Pet camera could be used as baby monitor or home security monitor also.  In the box, you get Tapo Pan/Tilt Home Security Wi-Fi Camera, Standard UK Plug with 3 metre cable, Quick Start Guide, Mounting Screws and a Mounting Plate The built-in speaker and power connection are at the rear of the camera.

The Microsd slot is located underneath the camera lens alongside the reset button (No Microsd included) On the base of the camera there is 3 soft rubber feet which give it some grip when placed on a surface.Using the mounting plate you could mount it on a wall/ceiling but I just placed mine on my kitchen counter, it’s a pity more companies don’t include a mounting guide.

Configuring the Camera

Using the Tapo App (available from Goolge Play Store or iOS) setting up the camera app was very straightforward. First sign-in to your Tp-Link account

 

You will be prompted to connect to a wifi network that the Tapo C200 will create for the initial connection, then you will get prompted to select the wifi network of your home that you want your Tapo to connect to and its Wi-Fi password.

Finally, there’s an option to name your Tapo C200 device and give it a nice looking icon for it. And that’s it! Your all set.The Tapo app is very straight forward and all the main features for the camera are easily accessible when you select your camera.

In the above screenshot the main options are clearly laid out like changing video settings from HQ/LQ video Auto (Day/Night Mode) and the Main Settings Menu.If you have multiple Tapos you can view them all on one screen at the same time. From the main screen if your viewing the stream you can take a picture or Start/Stop a recording, or make the picture fullscreen.

Other features are 

* One way talk

Allows one way communication from your phone to the camera’s speaker, handy mode if you want to talk to a baby or a miss behaving pet.

* Pan and tilt

I found it very responsive it has a good range of motion (360 Degree Rotational Views, 114 degree Vertical range) The apps has some modes of rotation, horizontal/vertical pan and mark a position that you can quickly return to.

Privacy button

To easily stop the recording functions of the camera.

* Switch Alerts on/off

Allows the user to disable/enable audio alerts on the camera’s speaker

* Playback and memory

This shows you what you have recorded and also the videos/pictures that you have saved.

Voice Call

Allows you to make a two way “normal” call to the Tapo from your device.

 

Camera Settings Menu

In the Settings menu you have plenty of options to configure the Tapo C200.

You can rename the camera, see what wifi network that your connected to and view signal strength. It would be nice if you could connect to a 5Ghz wifi but only 2.4Ghz is supported. Also there is an options to check for Firmware updates

Location will give you nice icon to show where the camera is located

Video Rotation, if you place the camera on a ceiling and you want to flip the images to that it appears the correct way up in the app.

LED. Option to disable/enable the LED.

Detection & Alerts, alerts are audio prompts that will use the cameras speaker.I have the Tapo set to Motion Detection for me, as I only want to record when the camera detects motion. It records in 1080p and Night vision up to 30ft and I found the quality of night time images quiet good.

“Notifications”, I disabled this as my pet as always setting of a recording then I would get notification, if you were using the camera as a security camera I would keep it enabled.

“Camera Alert” The camera will make an audio alert that it has detected motion, I had this disabled as I didn’t want the camera to make audio notification but if you setup a schedule it would be good security feature to enable. Even if you have pets you can select a certain area to check for motion

SD Card, I had issues with my 128GB Microsd card, the app should make it a bit more obvious that it has to format a Microsd card for the camera to use it. When I first inserted the card the camera said it had problems with the card. To resolve this you need to select the Format option in the settings menu and then you should be good to use your existing Microsd card (from the TP-Link website 128 GB on a microSD card, equal to 384 hours (16 days) of footage)

The Edit Schedule settings allows you to define periods when you want to record/not to record.

Advanced settings let you setup a camera account is to allow other apps/ from your PC to access your camera https://www.tp-link.com/uk/support/faq/2680/

On-screen Display, essentially allows you to inserts a timestamp and or customer text on your recording.

If you want to integrate with your Smart device I was easily able to get it to work with Alexa by using the Tapo Skill.

 

 

Image of the camera on the Amazon Echo Show 5, “Alexa show Kitchen”

If you looking for a security/indoor monitoring camera without a paid for cloud subscription that has excellent video quality it would be hard to beat the Tapo C200.

Daylight and Night time samples.

Full Specs 

https://www.tapo.com/uk/product/smart-camera/tapo-c200/

Available to Buy

https://www.amazon.co.uk/TP-Link-Security-Rotational-Required-Storage/dp/B07XR2NWZC/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=tapo+c200&qid=1583428858&sr=8-5

Review – Tapo Mini smart Wi-Fi socket – Tapo P100. #TapoP100

This  is a smart plug that allows the option to  Instantly turn connected devices on/off via the Tapo app. This is set up via the phone / Google assistant or Amazon Alexa with No Hub Required.

 Key Features:

  • Remote Control – Instantly turn connected devices on/off wherever you are through the Tapo app
  • Schedule – Pre-set a schedule to automatically manage devices
  • Timer – Create countdown timer lists for connected electronics
  • Voice Control – Manage your smart plug with voice commands via Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant
  • Away Mode – Simulates someone being at home by automatically turning the connected devices on/off randomly
  • Compact Design – Mini-sized to avoid blocking adjacent sockets
  • Easy Setup and Use – No hub required, set up quickly and manage easily via the free app 

Setup:

The setup is made easy by scanning the QR code on the box and following the app instructions.  This app requires you to register and install a new ‘Tapo’ app  which is another App to be used on the phone. The setup for Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for Voice Control is more challenging  as it requires linking accounts with as limited instruction on either app for the setup. This model is not Kasa compatible as other TP links,

Overall the unit is reasonably priced from a recognised  brand that works as required with a variety of options that can be used for scheduling to turn the socket on or off from  any location. It may be worth getting a set of the same brand of kit to prevent having multiple apps on the phone. This unit worked well without breaking the bank.

BUY HERE 

Creative Technology Releases Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus. #Creative #SoundBlaster #PCGaming

Creative Technology has boosted its PC gaming audio range with the release of Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus, an enhanced version of the original Sound BlasterX AE-5 boasting more surround sound features aimed at enhancing the audio experience for die hard PC gamers.

 

The celebrated Sound BlasterX AE-5 was a double CES 2018 Innovation Awards honoree in ‘Computer Hardware and Components’ and ‘Computer Accessories’. Backed up with Sound Blaster’s long legacy of audio processing technology such as the award-winning Xamp discrete headphone bi-amplifier, and powered by a 122 dB 32-bit / 384 kHz ESS SABRE32 Ultra-class DAC, it was the also world’s first sound card with an integrated RGB controller and already a stand-out gaming fan favorite in its own right.

 

Now, with support for Dolby Digital Live and Connect encoding, the Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus provides more delivery options to external audio devices, for an even more enhanced gaming experience than before. Together with the existing AE-5, it has also been updated with the latest Sound Blaster Command software, which features a user-friendly interface. In addition, the soundcard’s low price tag also means it provides more value for PC gamers.

 

Pricing and Availability

Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus is priced at GBP139.99 and is available at Creative.com.

For more information, visit creative.com/AE5plus.

Review – The Ludos turbo wired earbuds. #LudosTech #Earbuds #TECH

Ludos have a new set of affordable earbuds out now called the TURBO which is their latest addition in their line up from which we have been testing over the last few weeks that come in at a great price and keep getting better each time. They have also just released a set of comfy tips to give you better comfort and sound which you can check out over HERE.

Wired earbuds are still a thing and so are wireless today so it is good to have a choice of what to but.Like I have said before there is no shortage of selection and particularity now seen in petrol stations and budget stores the prices can vary but in general the product is crap with terrible sound and build. Again the turbo come in a nice metal box with a draw string bag which alot has to be said for in presentation terms as outlined above we get a typical plastic presentation.

The build quality again stands out here with a good cable and metal housing on the buds which is good and an ergonomic design,looking at the previous products you can see how they are changing the style and fit enhancing their products as they grow. When it comes to sound you get once again a well balanced and tuned pair of earbuds with a nice bass level too so for anyone worried they will not be disappointed here again.

 

❇️ 【NEW ERGONOMIC HEADPHONES】 We at LUDOS have one goal: We want to meet our customers’ expectations and know how important quality and service are. The new TURBO headphones from LUDOS offer maximum comfort because they nestle against your ears. Numerous studies regarding the ergonomics of the ear have paid off: you can wear these new headphones for hours without problems, without making them feel uncomfortable.

  • ❇️ 【UNIQUE QUALITY】 Music is our passion, so it is our duty to produce audio devices that delight our customers with an elegant, dynamic and intense sound experience. Our products are unique and have been developed based on customer needs. With LUDOS TURBO you can be sure that every sound is reproduced true to the original and that you can fully enjoy all pitches, whether in the high, mid or low range.
  • ❇️ 【THE CONCENTRATED POWER OF LUDOS】 As a start-up, we have sold more than 100,000 headphones all over Europe in just 2 years. The longevity of our products and the satisfaction of our customers are our best selling points. TURBO, the brand new in-ear headphones from LUDOS combines several advantages: additional resistance thanks to a reinforced cable that has a larger diameter than comparable products and extremely durable components.

BUY HERE 

LUDOS TURBO earphones:
★EU: https://amzn.to/2V9PgDt
★UK: https://amzn.to/2QWLSZE
★US: https://amzn.to/39xEB

 

 

Get savings from Bluesound and 3 months of Tidal for Free. #Bluesound #Tidal #Hometheater

Bluesound, the leader in wireless, high-res, multi-room music systems, announced a limited-time promotion on several Bluesound Home Theater Bundles. Turn your music, movies, sports, and video games into a fully immersive sonic experience with Bluesound’s wireless home theater players. There are three options appealing to different home theater system preferences and to both new and existing Bluesound customers. The promotion is in effect from April 14 – May 31, 2020. Purchase online at Bluesound.com or through participating Bluesound dealers worldwide.

Buy an award-winning POWERNODE 2i with HDMI and save 25% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i

This is the perfect bundle for movie lovers who enjoy their music with equal enthusiasm. With the launch of the BluOS 3.8 software upgrade last month, the POWERNODE 2i can now become part of a home theater grouping, in addition to its “day job” as a high-performance integrated amplifier and hi-res DAC and streamer. Just add speakers and the POWERNODE 2i takes your music listening to new levels, or add a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i as rear channels and make it the center of your Dolby Digital surround sound experience. Now, for a limited time, get 25% off a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i when you purchase a POWERNODE 2i at full price.

Buy a PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i and save 25% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i

Designed to fit perfectly under your HD or 4K TV, the PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i is the world’s first multi-room, high-res, wireless home theater soundbar to feature crystal clear, 24-bit resolution sound and audiophile-grade bass response—without a subwoofer. Add a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i as rear channels—now 25% off when you purchase a PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i — and enjoy a Dolby Digital home theater experience.

Save 10% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i

Whether adding two PULSE FLEX 2i to create the dedicated rear channels of a wireless home theater system, or hi-res music streaming zones in your home, save 10% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i during this limited time promotion.

For more details on all the Bluesound Home Theater configurations, visit: bluesound.com/home-theater.

Wix Remains Committed To Ireland And Dublin For Business Expansion. #Wix #Dublin

Wix.com Ltd. a leading cloud-based web development platform, today confirms its commitment to Ireland and to Dublin as a hub for its international growth in spite of Coronavirus fears.

 Wix has a staff of approximately 140 multi-lingual specialists and office operations personnel in Dublin supporting Wix customers across the UK, France, Spain and Portugal, Germany, Italy and Russia and has plans for further recruitment over the coming months.

Commenting on Wix’s continuing commitment to Ireland, President and COO Nir Zohar says:  “Our Ireland operation is at the frontline of our product growth and the support team in Dublin is invaluable to serving our millions of customers in Europe and around the world. We are absolutely committed to grow our staff in Ireland and we are reviewing all property options so that we find the right location and a flexible environment for the talent that we need to expand our business here.”

Dell Technologies Provides Top Tips to help Businesses Make the Transition to Remote Business Model. #Dell #Business

Dell Technologies has today unveiled tips to help businesses make the transition to a remote business model successfully at this time highlighting that the successful management of a remote workforce will be key to a positive outcome. With many businesses now working in the new reality that their entire workforce is operating from home, Dell Technologies has outlined the critical importance of connecting technology, security, workforce flexibility, data and leadership to help build a remote business model that remains competitive at this time.

Jason Ward, Vice-President and Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland said: “The future of work is transforming before our eyes. In a matter of weeks, businesses have found themselves in a position of having their entire workforce operating from home. With no time for on-the-job learning, this transition can pose a major challenge. 

“Remote working and flexible working have been fundamental elements of our business and culture at Dell Technologies for over 10 years. Over that decade of our teams working in a remote capacity, we have learnt some important lessons that others can benefit from to create a workforce transformation strategy fit for our new reality. 

“Technology is the foundation stone for large-scale remote interaction and engagement and must be at the centre of a remote working strategy and business model. But successful remote working takes more than the right technology. It requires a security-first approach, rooted in data, with flexible HR policies and leadership from the very top. 

“It will take time for companies to find the right approach to shape the supportive culture that meets the needs of every member of the team. Today we’re are sharing some tips that we believe can help businesses to safely navigate the move to remote working now and into the future.”

Technology

  1. Put employees first and make sure that applications and devices meet their needs so they can be productive.
  2. Provide the right technology – devices, applications, security, and connectivity – so colleagues can collaborate regardless of where they are.

Security

  1. Security must be an integral part of business strategy connected to the people, processes and technologies with an organisation so that data and IT assets are secure and available.
  2. Put in place collaboration and communication tools that can be used from anywhere, at any time on any device.
  3. Ensure your security policies accommodate new technology and working approaches.

Human Resources

  1. Partner across the organisation to help develop workplace policies that embraces flexible culture and enables every team member to give their best
  2. Listen to your employees – what’s working for them and what needs to be adjusted to enable them to be more productive.
  3. Provide training on connectivity tools, platforms and equipment so employees can get the most out of their remote workspace.

Data

  1. Root decisions in data by looking at trends in when employees are logging into their systems to work and what evolving external forces may require temporary or permanent shifts in your workplace policies.

Leadership

  1. Prepare managers and leaders for this new world of work by coaching them to support their teams and help them feel more connected.
  2. Leaders should listen to employees and understand what is working for them and what needs to be adjusted to enable them to be more productive.
  3. Maintain effective communication. Virtual coffee chats or open office hours are a good way to create “water cooler” moments which build and maintain relationships across your business.

Successful remote working has been a multi-year journey for Dell Technologies. As many Irish businesses look to keep their remote workforce connected for the coming weeks and months, it is important as a first step to identify what capabilities are already in place in your business which can be scaled, what transformations you have started that can be accelerated and identify smart investments that protect the health and safety of employees.

For more information on these tips and supporting resources create a remote workforce, log onto: https://www.delltechnologies.com/en-ie/connectedworkplace/index.htm.

No @WhatsApp is not going to start charging you money from Saturday. #WhatsApp #Scam

There is a new message going around now claiming that will start charging you money from Saturday. In a stupid message going around it asks you to send the message to 10 contacts to show you are an avid user and if not you will be charged 0.01p per message, It also claims if you send the message on to 10 people your logo will become Blue, Again this is rubbish

In this time of crisis there is many scams going around so be vigilant if you get any messages and feel free to contact us if you want for any assistance with such as we keep an eye on these scams and give you full details rather than the scant information you might read elsewhere. This is not the first time we have seen this message or a similar version of it and is just a hoax. You can report messages HERE and they clearly state they will not be charging for messages. This is just a heads up and going around en masse in many groups this morning.

Say that you have to pay to use WhatsApp (WhatsApp is a free app. We will never ask you to pay to use WhatsApp and you don’t have to do anything to use WhatsApp for free.)

To report such messages on WhatsApp do the following below..

  • On Android: Simply go to WhatsApp > tap More options  > Settings > Help > Contact us.
  • On iPhone: Simply go to WhatsApp > Settings  > Help > Contact Us.

Whats App responded to my question and the info supplied however rather scant..

Hi,

Thanks for your message.

WhatsApp Messenger is a free messaging app and will no longer charge subscription fees. Please read our blog post for more information.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to help!

Paul
WhatsApp Support Team

Take a look at our Help Center!

 

New update regarding privacy settings 20/5/2021

 

Jacqui MacKinnon appointed by emporia UK and Ireland as Sensory Sales Consultant

emporia telecom – which launched in the UK and Ireland markets at the beginning of the year – is pleased to announce that Jacqui MacKinnon is joining the team as Sensory Sales Consultant.

In the role MacKinnon will manage the UK and Ireland specialist retail channel relationships for emporia. These channels include charities and retailers that provide audio, sensory and dexterity support and products.

Jacqui began her career in consumer electronics retailing and began to specialise in this area over the past twenty years. She has worked with Chris Millington, MD of emporia UK & Ireland, previously at Doro, a mobile phone brand focused on the senior category.

Jacqui MacKinnon comments on her new role: “I am delighted to be joining Chris and Tim (emporia’s senior national account manager) in introducing the emporia brand to UK and Ireland markets. There is a huge appetite in the sector for a brand that develops products solely for the senior market; and emporia is the answer as they understand the changes we all face as we grow older such as hearing and dexterity loss.”

MD Chris Millington comments: “Jacqui is the leading expert in this area and I am delighted to again be working with her as we seek to build the emporia brand in the UK and Ireland.” 

emporia telecom, a multi-national private company based in Austria, exists to offer customers user-friendly products. Its portfolio features a range of telecommunication devices specially designed and adapted for the changing lives of the 66+ demographic.

UK and Ireland customers can visit www.emporiatelecom.co.uk for more information about the products and devices available.