Tag: featured

Review – Y-Cam triple layer smarthome security system. #smarthome #tech #Ycam

To install a CCTV camera system the installer must be registered, via the Private Security
Authority, this would involve a site survey in terms of  a) Risk,  b) Contents  c) Building,  d)
Supervision levels.  Setting up of the Smart home security is easy and accessible to all. This is also affordable to install an alarm system DIY style.

A basic understanding of technology is required, while you don’t need to be an electronics / IT / Installation expert to setup. (or PSA registered) Another feature of the alarm is there is are no monthly fees or hidden costs required. (Except if you want to upgrade your package) Setting up this version does not require a Drill or a screwdriver to setup. (wire-free-set-up)

Features:
• Internet-connected smart alarm
• Instant alert notifications
• 8-hour battery backup
• Internal Siren
• Access from anywhere on your smartphone

Technical Specifications:
• Connectivity: 10/100 Ethernet (RJ45 connector) & mobile network (Plus Service
required)
• Power Input: 100 – 240 VAC
• Power Output: 12V = 2A
• Device Capacity: up to 32 seconds & 8 remotes
• Dimensions: 157 x 157 x 30mm
• Weight: 365g
Components:
• Protect Hub -Central control for your Y-cam Protect
• Access Sensor Secures access points in your home
• Motion Sensor Detects movement up to 12m
• Remote Controls your Y-cam Protect system

Y cam app
The app got a 3.4 score from 570 with between 10,000 – 50,000 downloads. Support available at customersupport@y-cam.com. There is option to use with camera technology the burglar alarm has the option to connect this app with cameras but this version model tested does not come with cameras.

This app allows instant alert whenever an alarm is triggers. (if using the Expandable System with cameras you can also see what’s happening, day or night, from anywhere through your smartphone)

Alarm features include:
– Full access from anywhere via the app
– Really simple setup
– Triple Layer™ technology*
– 8-hour battery backup
– Expandable system
– 24/7-line monitoring*
– No contracts or monthly fees required
– SMS and phone call alerts*

Camera features include:
– Full access from anywhere via the app

– Really simple setup
– Free 7 days cloud video storage (30 days also available*)
– See and hear live and playback HD video
– Expandable system
– Indoor and outdoor protection
– See in the dark
– No contracts or monthly fees required

Y-cam Plus service required
Y-cam Protect smart alarm system with Triple Layer Security
Y-cam Protect is an option to provide Triple Layer, self-monitored, smart home security
system. With the use of compatible cameras this provided visual verification to any alerts. For
the Plus Service required for use of pre-installed SIM card and SIM antenna. To Access on a
mobile device an active Internet connection is required.

Optional accessories:
Y-cam Protect Access Sensor Secures doors, windows and access points in your property.
Part of the Y-cam Protect Alarm £19.99
• When connection is broken alarm triggers
• Includes Tamper switch
• Comes with 3M sticky tape to “Stick and Go”
• Really simple set up
• Expandable system, add sensors as you like

Y-cam Protect Motion Sensor Detects motion in your property Part of the Y-cam Protect
Alarm Price: £24.99
• Detects motion in your property
• 100-degree field of view
• Includes Tamper switch
• Comes with 3M sticky tape to “Stick and Go”
• Expandable system, add sensors as you like

 

A key feature of this kit is the Expandable System as the component supplied would offer a basic alarm system but limited to 1 door window switch and 1 motion sensor, Possible there would be a requirement to add in a back-door window sensor, or motion sensor to the system.

The system as tested worked but lacked the punch I would expect without expanding the system
to use cameras as when the alarm went off (set off by accident with a dog) I was unable to tell was this a fault or a real alarm. If getting the system possible look to get additional sensors and cameras. The setup is easy and saves allot of expense getting professional installation companies to fit. Support is available via London Headquarters if required. This comes with a 30 day no quibble money back guarantee.

Another feature of the Protect Alarm is Y-Cam’s ‘Triple Layer’ security. (To enable the ‘Triple Layer’ security you need to choose a package) This is provided in the form of an 8-hour battery backup should the power fail, internet backup should the mobile signal fail and lastly SIM card backup should the internet fail. So even if the very worst happens you will still get notified of an intrusion.

Looking towards the video storage is great as modern burglars would look to find the current storage system and remove resulting in some camera systems of little use, the cloud storage would prevent this resulting in a professional system at fraction of the cost of other systems.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Protect-System-Built-BatteryBackup/dp/B06WP9M5SV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1508160822&sr=8-1&keywords=Ycam%2BProtect&th=1
Price: £149.99

 

 

 

Review – Nokia 5 TPU gel case transparent Black from @TerrapinCases #Nokia5

Another case in for review for the Nokia 5 is the TPU Gel Transparent case for the Nokia 5. These are my preferred type of case for a smartphone which absorb knocks and bumps better than full on hard cases from my experience and not only that they do not add much when it comes to thickness either and also light. They last quite a while and also can be easily rubbed down with a damp cloth too and with this colour in particular it should not go off colour in a rush either,check out the image gallery and video below and feel free to ask any questions in the meantime.. Once again thanks to Terrapin Cases for dropping this over to check out.

Custom designed to fit like a glove

This superbly crafted case is custom designed to fit the Nokia 5 perfectly. Precision cut-outs for camera and ports mean you can take photos, charge your phone and listen with headphones without removing the case. All buttons can be used with ease.

Super slim

Made from premium protective TPU Gel, this Nokia 5 case provides bulk free protection whilst maintaining the original design aesthetic of your phone. It is completely form-fitting and provides subtle but robust protection.

Advanced protection

The Nokia 5 case delivers advanced protection against drops, scratches, dirt and dust, and features a raised lip around the screen and camera lens to prevent surface contact. Feel assured that your phone is well protected and will keep its brand new condition for life.

Extra grip

Not only will the Nokia 5 case protect your device in the event of a drop, but it also provides extra grip to make the phone more secure in the hand and prevent it sliding from slippery surfaces.

Easy to apply and remove

The Nokia 5 case can be fitted in an instant and is easy to remove if required.

BUY HERE 

Review – XTORM USB-C Discover 1,7000mAh powerbank. #tech #XTORM

I have gone through quite a few powerbanks over the years and they are a lifesaver in some instances and often the case I would  have maybe more than one with me when travelling or going to events or conferences. Given the range that is available out there today there is plenty of choice for users that require them or suffer from battery anxiety which is still a problem, even some of the todays new smartphones come with underwhelming battery power but the likes of this power bank eliminate battery anxiety and that moment of thought will my battery see me through this current event or presentation you might be at.

Unboxing the XTORM USB – C XB202 – POWERBANK

OK -So its a powerbank and it keeps your devices charged even your laptop there is that much on board so what else do you get…

Detachable micro USB cable.

Quick Charge 3.0 technology to charge up to 4 times faster.

Auto stop charging.

3 outputs to charge 3 devices at the same time.

Led light battery indicator.

USB-C port to charge MacBooks and laptops.

 

The Power Bank Discover enables you to charge your mobile devices anywhere and anytime. This Power Bank has a 17000mAh internal battery. This provides enough power to charge a smart phone at least EIGHT TIMES  or a tablet/MacBook at least TWICE. It is also possible to charge THREE DEVICES at once. What’s more, its rubber finish gives this back-up battery a streamlined, stylish look. The finish on this unit is what I like and its robust,feels good looks good and will last you unlike other can and it will take plenty of drops again where some will fail and spill the contents on the ground with splinters of casing,particularly those plastic finished ones.

Another real bonus here its 3.0 quickcharge,if you have a device that supports it you don’t have to wait long to charge your device which is vital for most,myself included as often I put things on the long finger given I have the requirements at hand nearly all the time.

Ports and Charging.

The USB-C port has 5V / 3A input and output and works with USB- C to USB cable and USB C to USB cable. You can charge current phones like the Galaxy S8/S8P Blackberry KEYOne and Note 8 for some examples The Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports support devices with no less than 12Volts, and unsupported 5V / 2.4A equipment. The other USB port has 5 Volts – 2.4A maximum output.

 

The LED light on the front is a nice touch and simple this light also acts as the power on/off key too and this indicates the status of power left indicated in a circle with lit up LED lights beneath, The only drawback with this unit is its weight and charge time which is around 7/8 hours but they are small caveats to pay for really good solid piece that will take plenty of knocks and have surplus power in your backpack should you be one that travels often or attends events. Like I said I have many powerbanks at my disposal this one is now my main means of power and the old ones will be disposed of now that I sport several devices with USB – C and standard charged devices are fading away as daily drivers.

BUY HERE 

Android update 7.1.2 now available in Ireland for the Nokia 5 #Nokia5 #Ireland

If you own a Nokia 5 check it now ours has just got the update and this means its rolling out around the world too. This also has the latest October updated built in which I have been watching for and yet has to arrive on the Nokia 3. The update is big coming in at 690MB and offers improved system stability and improved user interface enhancements. Updates have been fairly consistent albeit late in the month but its good to see them coming in regardless.. Our Nokia 5 is the (TA – 1024)

 

Discover Mars from your on home with #MarsWalk #VirtualReality #VR #Space

One to look for given the quiet time with VR of late,this is quite good and for those who are into all things space and with the talk of travelling to Mars sometime in the future it will give you an insight. The app is quite large so ensure you use your Wi-Fi to download. Lockheed also have an app they launched in April 2016 called Explore Mars and just like that app this one is well presented and looks great to and again a really nice app to have stored on your device. I have tried the app out and it really is nice and if you are into something like this its a must have and its free to download on both Android and iOS right now. You can use any compatible Head Mounted or Google Cardboard headset then hop out of the capsule and go on a journey and collect items that have to be returned

 

FEATURES:
– Walk the surface of Mars and explore the landing sites for InSight, Viking and Curiosity
– Experience dust storms at the Northern Crater
– Observe InSight and Viking as they gather information about Mars
– Visit one of the famous Viking landers that landed more than 40 years ago
– Follow Curiosity as it navigates the red surface collecting samples

 

Guest Review – The Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact by Liam Burke. #Sony #Xperia #XZ1Compact

At techbuzz we like to hear your thoughts on your shiny new tech and we welcome guest reviews on site and today one of our long time readers Liam Burke has sent us his thoughts on his own Sony Xperia XZ1 compact we too will be sharing our thoughts on this and the compact version in the coming weeks. Liam is also very helpful on forums too with mobile phones with tech support. We also have both devices in house to check out and you can see the unboxings below and first look..

 

Coming from the Xperia Z5 Compact the Xperia XZ1 Compact is a great upgrade, keeping the same size screen as the Xperia Z5 Compact but lighter. I love the form factor of the Xperia XZ1 compact, it fits perfectly in the hand it feels like a premium handset with its unibody that is  made from glass fiber woven plastic, which is both strong and lightweight and its rounded edges it feels very ergonomic.
The fingerprint scanner on the side of the phone is a great feature as it is super easy to unlock the phone with the added security of using your fingerprints. Android 8.0 Oreo is running on the phone out of the box which adds improvements over Nougat, I didnt find any lag in the phone when I was using it.
It improves on all aspects from the Xperia Z5 Compact.
Even though the 2,700 mAh battery is the same capacity as the Xperia Z5 Compact, the latest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 835 optimizes the battery and  I was able to get 2 days usage out of the handset. The front of the phone has Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for added protection with scratch resistance as well as having stereo speakers and a led for notifications. I found the 4.6 inch 720p HD display bright  and vibrant the phone does a great job of reproducing colours as its using the technology thats in Sony Bravia TVs for the image processing. Its rated IP68 water-resistant so it can withstand an immersion in fresh water (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes) so you dont need to worry about it getting wet in the rainy Irish weather.
Camera Tech
Rear Camera:

Xperia XZ1 Compact also features Sony’s latest 19 MegaPixel Motion Eye camera that has the capability to shoot super slow motion video at 960fps.

The rear of phone has a Laser to help with Autofocus and the predictive hybrid autofocus which helps you get ultra-fast focusing even in low light conditions,  I found this really useful to as I was able to capture shots of people at the right time, instead of being just a second too late. Burst mode is a great feature as it shoots at 10 fps while always autofocusing on each shot, you can take pictures of someone/something in action and select the best shot. Having a dedicated camera button is a great feature for a camera phone, the camera app launches up really fast so it makes it easier to get the right shot.
Front Camera:
It has a 120 degree wide angle 8 MegaPixel camera for even better selfies, the camera has an option for group or single person selfie on the main camera screen, so you take great selfies.
The screen also flashes just before taking your selfie to brighten up low light selfies.
The high five feature is really handy so you don’t need to touch the phone screen, the camera recognizes that your doing a high five and automatically takes a selfie without you having to press the capture button.
Create 3D scans using the 3D creator tool which gives you the option to scan four modes: Head, Face, Food and Freeform Then you share these scans on Social Media, create 3D stickers or as avatars and even print them on 3D printers.
For Music.
The Xperia XZ1 Compact has Hi-Res audio support, improved Stereo speakers from the Xperia Z5 compact with 50% more sound pressure , Enhanced Bluetooth Streaming with Bluetooth 5.0.
Digital Noise Cancelling with up to 98% exterior noise reduction, I used my MDR-NC31E headphones and its great for cancelling background noise and with the Hi-Res audio the sound was excellent.
The sound during calls and playing music from the front speakers is improved over the speakers on the Xperia Z5 Compact.
Other Features:
Updated Xperia Home launcher with app shortcuts that allows you to bring a context menu of app shortcuts when you long pressing on a compatible app,
So the Google Drive app can show options for uploading, scanning or searching your files without having to go into the app.
Micro-sd support, so no need to worry about storage issues. USB Type-C with increased data speed transfer and also its reversible so no fiddling with the cable to connect it.
Another nifty feature is that you can charge other devices from the phone too.
Playstation 4 Remote Play compatible so you can connect to your PS4 in your home.
Smart Cleaner is a handy Xperia app that cleans up unused apps.
There are only a few differences between the Xperia XZ1 Compact and its bigger brother the Xperia XZ1 besides the HDR screen and higher internal battery and memory.

Double Unboxing – Sony Xperia XZ1 and XZ1 compact. #Sony #Xperia #XZ1 #tech

Our new Sony devices have arrived and we will have today a quick unboxing and walkaround of both devices side by size and talk some little about them. It has been a while since I have used Sony as my daily driver but the last experience was great and hope that experience continues with the new offerings at hand here today and I look forward to testing them out and their capabilities. These are now available to buy in Ireland so you should check with your provider and if you have any questions in the interim feel free to ask while we take these two devices on a test run for the next fortnight.

The Xperia XZ1 Compact may be small, but it packs a powerful punch. With the latest Sony innovation, a Motion Eye camera with Super slow motion and a premium audio experience – everything becomes wow.

The Xperia XZ1 Compact Motion EyeTM camera with Super slow motion and Predictive Capture lets you see moments you’ve never seen before.

With a 120° field of view,you can fit more people and scenery into the shot. Switch from super-wide to wide in a single click.

 

Review – TrackR Pixel. Find misplaced items using your smartphone.#Tech #Tracking

TrackR Pixel is a product that was developed out of a bad experience, One of the developers losing keys of a car on a beach with the tide rising to the car with the keys lost, they developed a solution to the problem the TrackR. TrackR pixel is connected via an app (TrackR) and allows an easyway to find misplaced items using your smartphone.

The TrackR Pixel is small and lightweight so it can be connected to your car keys, luggage etc This Bluetooth tracker can be used to enable a ringer and lights up so you can find even in the dark.You can also find your phone by pressing the button on TrackR pixel to make it ring loudly –even on silent. You can also use the TrackR pixelfor Family Sharing with multiple people, connected to the house keys, house phone or even the family pet.

(Use with caution as the unit is not waterproof.) If yourkey/ bag etc are lost outside of your phone Bluetooth range, then you can rely on Crowd Locate TrackR’s Crowd Locate network will automatically start looking for your item. If another TrackR user walks by your item, you’ll receive an anonymous update with your missing item’s last known location.

The TrackR doesn’t require an annual subscription which means one set up your good to go. If you one of those people that have left a phone in a taxi, lost your keys, left a bag behind in a hotel or just misplace an item now and again the TrackR Pixel may be the route to go down. If you’re thinking of a stocking filler for a friend or colleague that has a habit of leaving things behind them, this may be a perfect choice. Don’t leave it until it’s too late and the item is lost to get one.

Diameter: 26.2 mm (1.03 in.)

Thickness: 5.6 mm (0.22 in.)

Battery type: User-replaceable CR2016

Volume: 90 dB

Connectivity: BLE 4.0

Compatibility: iOS 8+, Android 4.4+

BUY HERE 

Nokia – HMDGlobal – The Nokia 7 goes official.But its China bound for now. #Nokia7

There has been rumours of the China bound device for some weeks now but its finally official. This one also is the first device from HMD Global to sport a glass back and it will also come in White in two versions with a 4GB RAM and a 6GB RAM model to pick from. The device is set to go on sale next week costing around €300 – €350 respectively. And an added bonus here to take in is it will come with BOTHIE which is only available on the current flagship the Nokia 8.

On launching the Nokia 7 Juho Sarvikas, Chief Product Officer, HMD Global said….

“To some people, a smartphone is purely functional, to others it’s a vital luxury accessory, a cannot-live-without partner that reflects so much of their personal style and lifestyle. Nokia 7 is a design-led style-icon that doesn’t compromise on functionality. We’ve packed in our latest innovations, like Dual-Sight, which gave rise to the Bothie phenomenon – a culturally relevant feature that has captured the imaginations of content creators around the world. Unique capabilities and iconic style encapsulate Nokia 7.”

Exterior
  • Corning gorilla glass fuselage
  • 7000 series aluminum alloy frame
  • 16 million pixel Zeiss lens, f1.8 aperture, 80 wide angle camera
  • Front 1.4um pixels, f2.0 aperture, ~ 84 wide-angle camera
  • 5.2-inch full HD display

internal
  • Monthly real-time updates, safer native Android system
  • High-pass Xiao Long 630 eight-core processor
  • Nokia OZO captures and plays back audio technology
  • 4GB or 6GB RAM
  • 64GB 1 storage space and support for expandable storage 2(up to 128GB)

See more HERE