Apple’s iPhone 6s Smart Battery Case not for you? – try the Stacked battery case

Apple’s iPhone 6s Smart Battery Case has been widely criticised – briefly:

● “it’s ugly”

● “makes the phone too big”

● “small capacity compared to alternatives” (Apple 1,877mAh – Mophie Juice Pack Air 2,750mAh)

● “expensive compared to alternatives”

● “picks up cat hair & lint”

The Verge: “Apple’s new $99 iPhone battery case doesn’t measure up”


Credit: The Verge/YouTube

http://www.theverge.com/2015/12/8/9867996/apple-smart-battery-case-iphone-6-6s-hands-on

Unbox Therapy: “This thing looks weird.”


Credit: Unbox Therapy/YouTube

Stacked has a different idea – a relatively slim case, with a separate battery, which can be magnetically attached to the case to charge the phone when necessary, but adds no bulk at other times. And both the phone & the Stacked battery charge by attaching magnetically to the Stacked charger. No more cables. Finally, the Stacked battery has greater capacity than the Apple at 2,750 mAh, & can be increased without limit, by buying extra batteries, if required.


Credit: Stacked/Vimeo

https://bgr.com/2015/12/23/iphone-battery-case-review-stacked-vs-apple/

Manufacturer’s web site:
http://www.poweredbystacked.com/ / new iPhone battery case The Hunchback of Cupertino Apple’s makes a killing selling high-margin iPhone accessories cables leather cases iPhones have relatively weak battery life compared to the competition Mophie battery cases big business Apple capture a sizable chunk of it offering its own first-party option main problem with the case ugly really ugly design aesthetically completely ruins the look of the iPhone battery case considered attractive Spyder’s sleek battery another option iPhone users similar hump design much much cooler than Apple’s Stacked unique battery case solution iPhone 6/6s iPhone 6/6s Plus adds wireless charging Stacked nifty novel iPhone charging solution three separate pieces first component case holds the iPhone far slimmer battery case separate 2,750 mAh power pack special wall charger separate power pack Stacked attaches back case magnetically transmits power wirelessly through case iPhone connects to the wall charger magnetically recharged wall charger wirelessly charge charge carry multiple packs always have power juice up your iPhone connect iPhone case directly wireless wall charger charge phone home desk power pack Stacked’s design big bulky case when you need power slap a power pack on it remove the pack phone slim video testing Stacked iPhone case battery cases thickness smartphones smart phones remove the power pack juice up charge time Stacked cases charge with 99% efficiency plugged into the wall Apple charger Apple sell battery cases current design not very attractive the iPhone of battery cases Stacked solution very smart novel works well charges quickly no noticeable signal loss phone in the case wireless charging iPhone cool bonus Stacked available iPhone 6 6s iPhone 6/6s Plus $129.99 black model free Prime shipping while gold white models one power pack additional packs sold separately /

Formula E, season 2, round 3, Punta del Este, Uruguay – extended video highlights

Just posted:

http://hhg2tech.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/formula-e-season-2-round-3-punta-del_19.html / Formula E all electric racing series Formula E, season 2, round 3, Punta del Este, Uruguay ePrix stadium races F1 FIA electricity sport electric vehicles EV terrific acceleration pass passing possible tracks with tight corners technology range race organizers Spark-Renault SRT_01E built French company Spark Racing Technology carbon fiber aluminum chassis Dallara electric powertrain electronics McLaren Electronics Systems Williams Advanced Engineering building 200 kiloWatt battery pack batteries powertrain generate 270 horsepower five-speed paddle shift gearbox fixed gear ratios Michelin 18 inch tires wet dry conditions sound 80 decibel whine full grid 20 cars FIA Formula E strategy street courses dedicated circuits tire wear grip management battery life charge prematurely testing drivers learn knowledge teams construction constructors constructing FanBoost pit stop second fully charged car advances in battery technology battery swaps charging battery Renault Michelin DHL Qualcomm Richard Branson Virgin Racing team Leonardo DiCaprio Venturi team lithium ion LiIon battery charge recharge range battery management system BMS /

Surface area of solar panels required to power the world

Larger image (1 MB): http://landartgenerator.org/pdf/PosterSolar.pdf
Credit: Land Art Generator Initiative

Solar panels convert light from the Sun into electricity. It’s likely there are a number of them on your roof or a roof near you. Are there enough roofs or other unused surface area to power your city? Your state? Country? World? Or would land area have to diverted from other purposes?

The US Department of Energy calculated, in 2009, that by 2030, world energy consumption in all forms would be 678 quadrillion BTU¹ (715 exaJoules^2,3).

So, what area of solar panels is required to produce that amount of energy from sunlight?

http://landartgenerator.org/blagi/archives/127
__________

¹ “British thermal unit”, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_thermal_unit

² “Joule”, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joule

³ “exaJoule”, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joule#Exajoule / 2009 International Energy Agency IEA updated estimates implementation of demand-side efficiency measures worldwide long-range estimates overestimated US Department of Energy Energy Information Administration world consumption of energy all formsbarrels of petroleum cubic meters natural gas watts of hydro power projected 678 quadrillion BTU 715 exajoules 2030 44% increase over 2008 levels 1980 were 283 quadrillion BTU 500 quadrillion BTU 2009 surface area infrastructural investment amount of power using only solar panels create fuel vehicles equipment electricity generated create hydrogen big number 678,000,000,000,000,000 BTU kWh Btu kWh kiloWatt hours 198,721,800,000,000 kWh 199,721 tWh average household uses approximately 18,000 kWh per year 1/11 billion of the total world usage capacity .2 kW per SM square metre meter of land efficiency of 20% 1000 watts 1 kW 1 kiloWatt capacity square meter capacity kW multiply number of hours square meters photovoltaic panel outputting 0.2kW capacity kilowatts x hours kWh 70% average sunshine days per year world Africa Arabian peninsula 250 sun days per year 8 hours of daylight average 2,000 hours per year direct sunlight multiply each square meter by 2,000 yearly kWh capacity per square meter of 400 kWh global yearly demand kWh per square meter 198,721,800,000,000 / 400 496,804,500,000 square meters 496,805 square kilometers 191,817 square miles area required to power the world with solar panels roughly equal to the area of Spain 5,000 super-site installations around the world average 25 per country measure less than 10km a side UAE United Arab Emirates plans construct 1,500MW capacity 2020 area 3 km per side power itself as a nation completely solar energy USA United Nations 170,000 square kilometers of forest destroyed each year constructed solar farms 1.2 million square kilometers farmland in China area of solar farm required power world in 2030 compare to Saharan Desert Saharan Desert 9,064,958 square kilometers 18 times the total required area to fuel the world another measure unpopulated area of the Sahara desert over 9 million km² square kilometres covered with solar panels provide 630 terawatts total power Earth’s current energy consumption rate 13.5 TW at any given moment including oil gas coal nuclear hydroelectric measure multiplier area needed very conservative compare highways area of US interstate highway system constructed 35 years 94,000 square kilometers US consumes 20% of the world’s energy area of USA highway run the world nation required infrastructure golf courses typical golf course covers square kilometer worst case scenario projections 2030 growth BTU load sources of clean energy wave energy
world wave energy potential 2,100,000,000,000 kWh 2,100 tWh required load wind 5 MW turbine 17 gWh per year turbines manufacturing machine installation turbine existing hydroelectric environment construct dams rivers design new large-scale hydro effect ecosystems watersheds existing river well-planned run-of-the-river projects hydroelectric power accounted for 6% of the energy production in the world technologies improving efficiencies technology will continue to get better and better /

Wave generated electricity – pilot plant opened in Western Australia

Credit: Carnegie Wave Energy

This is the first wave electric power generation plant connected to a grid anywhere in the world. Other things that set it apart are that it is all below water (providing a degree of protection from storms & invisible from the shore) & incorporation of a reverse osmosis desalination plant.

Energy generated by the acton of waves on the bouys is brought ashore as high pressure water. There, a hydro-electric turbine converts the energy to electricity.

Compared most other sources of renewable energy, wave energy has the advantage of being available 24 hours per day.





http://www.sciencenewspost.com/worlds-first-grid-connected-wave-power-station-switched-on-in-australia/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CETO

Carnegie Wave Energy web site
http://carnegiewave.com/ / world first grid connected grid-connected wave power station switched on in Australia also supplies zero emission zero-emission desalinated water activated coast Western Australia WA testing demonstrations Australian company Carnegie Wave Energy switched on pilot project begun feeding wave-generated electricity into local WA grid first array wave power generators connected electricity grid Australia worldwide Ivor Frischknecht CEO Australian Renewable Energy Agency provided $13 million $32 million project company’s technology named CETO Greek goddess of the sea converts ocean swell zero-emission renewable power zero-emission desalinated freshwater company system different from other wave energy devices operates under water safer from large storms corrosion invisible from the shore round submerged buoys tethered seabed pump units installed depth between 25 50 metres waves crashing buoys drive pumps push pressurised seawater through pipeline beneath ocean floor onshore hydroelectric power station high-pressure water drives turbine generates electricity high-pressure water supply reverse osmosis desalination plant replacing reducing reliance greenhouse gas-emitting electrically-driven pumps required plants Sophie Vorath RenewEconomy project sell power Australian Department of Defence supply Australia’s largest naval base HMAS Stirling Garden Island sell fresh water base Carnegie’s newly commissioned desalination plant fully integrated into the project project’s three buoys installed installation second buoy during testing phase first 240kW peak capacity CETO 5 wave unit operated successfully more than 2,000 hours Frischknecht statement larger CETO 6 units being developed four times power generating capacity Carnegie chief executive Michael Ottaviano The West Australian project much bigger versions capable of powering towns challenge scale cost make the technology bigger make our projects bigger that’s what get your costs down economy of scale wave resources Western Australia best in the world theoretically resources hit our coastline power the state /

Best wishes

Credit: think-solar-power.com

All the very best from Hitchhiker’s Guide 2 Tech!

Bubble level in Google Search

Credit: Übergizmo

On your smart phone, call up a Google search bar – widget, browser – doesn't seem to matter – & type:

bubble level

On at least some smartphones, both iOS & Android, you will see a simulated bubble level as shown in the image above.

Tested successfully on iPhone 6+, Samsung Note 4 & Note 3

Some devices, including Samsung S3 & S4 display, “Device not supported”.

http://www.ubergizmo.com/2015/12/search-google-bubble-level/

Thanks to Phil, Peter & John for help with testing. / Search Google Bubble Level nifty feature love about Google answer your search results displayed at a glance convert from one measure to another search results display summary answer links expanded answer Google search double up as a tool need a bubble level screenshot above searching for “bubble level” Google result actual working bubble level displayed search results not all phones are supported could potentially be your browser settings works on iOS devices Android only thing unfamiliar bubble level spirit level tools use to determine ground is level surface used by landscape photographers ensure that their cameras are level tripod placed on an uneven surface handy hang paintings photos on the wall make sure that it isn’t crooked replace actual bubble/spirit levels in a pinch don’t want to go out and buy one specifically should be able to get the job done /

Sixteen lens compact camera with performance of an SLR – development continues

Shutterbug: “it slid snugly into the front pocket of my skinny jeans”
Credit: Shutterbug

You may remember previous mention of development of the Light L16 camera, which uses 16 cameras with phone-size sensors to produce 40+ Megapixel images at focal lengths of 35-150 mm.¹

More information is now available, including:

Co-operative arrangement with Foxconn to develop the technology for smartphones. This is expected to be the wide-angle variant, with around 18-80mm zoom,¹ mentioned in my previous article.

Hands-on review by Shutterbug photography magazine:
http://www.shutterbug.com/content/16-cameras-one-light-announces-l16-multi-aperture-computational-camera-pocket-sized-dslr#fkJZqv2hz8v4ML85.97

Presentation by Dr. Rajiv Laroia, co-founder & CTO, on the underlying technolgy:


More comprehensive developer’s web site:
https://light.co/

Light is accepting deposits to reserve a camera for delivery in late 2016.
__________

¹ full-frame 35mm equivalent / focus zoom move mirrors calibrate multiple lenses unique Light L16 four spiders 16 cameras arranged haphazard fashion tiny mirrors thin sheet glass shoot pictures bizarre multi-camera Light executives fully operational version camera develop developing development software editing tools custom circuitry put camera in the hands of the masses performs as advertised sample gallery images taken L16 impressive revolutionary new type professional-level camera high-resolution images adjust depth of field your pictures after take shot excels low light nothing bigger smartphone sensor expensive plastic lens embedded phone-like face no moving parts optical zoom range 35mm 150mm front L16 flat multiple lenses embedded behind transparent glass pane panel optical porthole feeds light separate 13-megapixel sensor camera capture images three discrete focal lengths five sensors five 35mm lenses point straight out 11 cameras lens arrangement Light team folded optics like periscopes sensors tucked behind five 70mm lenses six 150mm lenses perpendicular front camera little robotic mirrors visible through front L16 deflect photons right angles toward sensors long-zoom lens barrels positioned sideways ample room pack more lens elements in each barrel Light co-founder CEO Dave Grannan extra room makes huge difference camera’s optical oomph big heavy lenses conventional camera 15 glass elements flourite element some exotic material spherical elements slight asphere aspherical very expensive process glass lens molded-plastic technology cellphones been perfected lenses so good diffraction limited aspherical on each surface five both sides 10 aspherical surfaces incremental cost aspherical zero plastic mold punch them out glass very expensive five barrel Android iPhone at volume costs dollar camera need 16 sensors 16 multi-element lenses 11 mirrors take photograph holy grail Light L16 slim compact camera performs like bulky DSLR without expensive interchangeable lenses large sensor success camera’s internal infrastructure change the way smartphones take pictures today’s smartphone cameras already excellent small sensors poor performance low light pleasantly shallow depth of field bokeh DSLR larger-sensor camera optical-zoom lens zoom digital zoom image negatively impact detail image quality definition smartphone cameras creative solutions Nokia Lumia 1020 crammed 41 megapixels sensor crop and digitally zoom without destroying image detail. Panasonic’s Lumix CM1 larger sensor smartphone body image capabilities dedicated compact camera more megapixels small sensor better image quality large sensor optically zoom multi-camera multi-lens approach complex computational imaging Light big-sensor image quality very high resolution big-lens zoom flat-fronted futuristic brick power 16 smartphone sensors Light co-founder CEO Dr. Rajiv Laroia sensors Light camera tandem mimic benefits very large sensor sensors Light relatively cheap amount computational magic unites them all small sensors very unpredictable pixel level cramming tiny sensor full pixels size of those pixels smaller number of photons pixel level accuracy image bucket collects photons pixels sensors modern cellphone sensors 5,000 photons Laroia explains pixel sensing on/off signal sensing shades construct image sense shades photons light energy quantum mechanics level light energy statistical probabilistic small sensors record grain noise low-light settings DSLRs more detailed pictures dark larger sensors Light L16 distributed array smaller sensors spread out the work mimic much bigger pixel using multiple sensors Laroia says effective sensor area becomes lot larger noise goes down significantly dynamic range increases significantly dynamic range increases tenfold how many sensors take a photo L16 photo depending focal length cameras capturing shots stitching together create single high-resolution image 35mm widest-angle field of view five 35mm cameras fire images captured sensors slightly overlap camera stitch together seamless image lining up shots additional five-camera capture 70mm 35mm shot 150mm one quarter 70mm slightly overlapping geometry parallax mirrors deflecting photons 70mm 150mm aren’t static actuators slightly tilt adjust each photo mirrors seated front 70mm lenses quickly adjust capture image more detail 52 megapixels detail file size between 30 and 50MB 70mm pointed center image upper left quadrant 13-megapixel picture quarter scene upper right quadrant one stays middle image quality best there 13 megapixel sensors one 52-megapixel image 70mm 150mm modules camera takes 70mm photo 150mm 52 megapixels image resolution room crop digitally retain detail dynamic range crop light energy edges tradeoff 70mm 52 megapixels 40 megapixels DSLRs cameras capturing so much data different aperture values focal lengths post-shot retouching options groundbreaking time exposure set at the time take picture depth of field ISO dynamic range adjusted after the fact 11 PhDs computational optics depth map great 3D information developer write indoor mapping app leverages that information facial recognition precise information 3D-printing app non-removable battery 128GB fixed internal storage touchscreen manual controls While Light ship L16 earliest pre-orders response camera slimmer versions camera in the works smartphones smartphone Light’s imaging technology internal components can get slimmer design modified eliminate 150mm lenses 18mm focal length DSLR quality low-light performance shallow depth of field zoom /

Tesla “Launch Mode”

Credit: Drag Times/forococheselectricos.com/

Tesla has just released an update to version 7 software, which includes "Launch Mode", for improved acceleration off the mark. Improvements are small, & sometimes inconsistent between runs in the Drag Times article. Zero to 100 mph improves by 0.1 second. Time to 60 mph improves by only 0.04 sec.

http://www.dragtimes.com/blog/launch-mode-testing-on-tesla-p90d-ludicrous / Tesla released software update new feature called Launch Mode help car accelerate as quickly as possible release notes new Launch Mode test requires car Max Battery Power Mode Tesla’s Launch Mode operates similarly other performance cars car completely stopped press firmly brake left foot press accelerator completely down right foot release accelerator press down all the way again car displays message Launch Mode Enabled 4 seconds release brake take off Launch Mode procedure feel car loading up power against brakes creaking noises release brakes and go Launch Mode resulted slightly quicker performance numbers previous software release falls short Tesla’s 10.9 1/4 mile performance specifications back to back 0-60 MPH testing with without launch mode engaged enabled best 0-60 MPH time obtained using Launch Mode runs dead even between using Launch Mode not using it wheels car lighter than stock Pulse Speed Design GmbH video below performance comparison table /

Phone camera for landscape photography

Platte, Germany – photographed with a camera phone
Credit: Karsten Schoenberg/iPhone Photography School

Camera phones are well-suited to landscape photography. Your friends with SLRs & a collection of interchangeable lenses may sneer, but look at the image above. More work of Karsten Schoenberg, at:

http://iphonephotographyschool.com/karsten-schoenberg/?usrc=email / how Karsten Schoenberg learned take superb iPhone photos nature interview Karsten Schoenberg takes beautiful iPhone photos landscapes nature Karsten’s photography entering images iPhone photo contest has a great eye interesting subjects light composition only been shooting seriously with iPhone six months interview take stunning photos with his iPhone northern Bavaria Germany iPhone photography takes great nature photos DSLR camera took some pictures iPhone during my vacation pictures were really good take more photos with my iPhone beautiful island of Ruegen in Germany I shot hundreds of pictures with my new iPhone 6 wonderful landscape photos iPhone genre of photography outside in nature northern part of Bavaria charming landscape between Fichtelgebirge and Steinwald natural parks stunning natural beauty of Germany my homeland photographs photos composition is really important landscape photography creating sense of depth scale composition tips aspiring landscape photographers taking more eye-catching pictures basic rules of composition leading lines adding interesting foreground elements rule of thirds ask yourself what’s the main subject in this scene take pictures from different positions angles find the best perspective landscapes contain extensive details simplification powerful prominent compositions type of light shoot big impact landscape photos time of day landscape photography golden hour sunrise sunset most dramatic light warm colors beautiful landscape nature photos macro photography rainy days long exposure photos rivers waterfalls most challenging aspects landscape photography creating well-exposed image detail both foreground and sky good exposure iPhone photosuse a camera app ProCamera separate focus exposure points more control setting correct exposure level difficult lighting situations sunrise 645 PRO app feature under over exposed areas get the settings exactly right student iPhone Photo Masters online training program unique tricks techniques world-class iPhone photographer what you’ve learned iPhone Photo Masters program improve my photography skills exposure composition light how to get sharper pictures how to use motion blur take more creative photos learning changed approach iPhone photography rules of composition course make pictures rather than just take them video tutorials assignments photo review sessions expert learning photo review sessions iPhone photography expert review your photos improve your iPhone photography leave your comfort zone structure of the course learn a new genre new photography skills online photography community students courses share their photos online community your photography feedback photos community successful images improve iPhone photography community different photography techniques photo apps apps taking photos native camera app ProCamera 645 PRO weather light conditions Cortex Cam low light photography Slow Shutter long exposure photos favorite apps post-processing favorite editing app Snapseed edits noise reduction Photoshop Express Enlight add mood photo VSCO beautiful filters erase an unwanted object picture TouchRetouch iPhone photography accessories tripod smartphone mount remote bluetooth shutter mobile battery charger wireless card reader back up photos SD card olloclip macro pro lens shooting close-up photos wireless off-camera flash from Nova beautiful long exposure photos of water long exposure photos tripod remote shutter best results Slow Shutter app try different settings app adjust blur strength shutter speed stand right in the middle of river be in best position take the photo landscapes /

Who is Australia’s biggest poker machine owner?

GetUp! is an organisation which, to quote their web site, “... is an independent movement to build a progressive Australia & bring participation back into our democracy.”¹

Woolworths, in Australia,² is primarily known as a grocery retailer. Less well known is that they are also a major owner of poker machines.^3,4,5

GetUp! has been addressing the issue of poker machines, & in particular, the fact that Woolworths is major poker machine owner. To this end, they recently produced a spoof of a Woolworths advertisement. But they have had trouble getting it aired:

‘We just received word that Channel 9 is refusing to run our new TV ad exposing Woolworths as Australia's largest poker machine owner. Why? Because “Woolworths are a key business partner”’ – info@getup.org.au



More: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maH1ELpwSHU

And just in case you don’t know, this is just one small part of why poker machines are bad for people:


__________

¹ GetUp, https://www.getup.org.au/

² Woolworths in Australia is in no way related to Woolworths in USA.

³ Woolworth Limited: “Frequently Asked Questions”,
http://www.woolworthslimited.com.au/page/egm/FAQs/

⁴ Indymedia Australia: “Woolworths alone owns more poker machines than the top five Las Vegas casinos combined”, http://indymedia.org.au/2012/03/02/woolworths-alone-owns-more-poker-machines-than-the-top-five-las-vegas-casinos-combined.html

⁵ “Who wins from ‘Big Gambling’ in Australia?”, https://theconversation.com/who-wins-from-big-gambling-in-australia-22930 / Woolworths owns more poker machines top five Las Vegas casinos combined Getup members phoned local MPs reject Government's smokescreen gambling reform bill spoke out against shoddy bill Senator Nick Xenophon Andrew Wilkie MP Australian Greens declaring bill dead on arrival will not support boardrooms largest players poker machine industry major grocery chains Coles Woolworths CEOs Wesfarmers Coles Woolworths power meaningful reform problem gambling gaming problem addiction bankruptcy rent money bill money children family gamblers anonymous /

Formula E, season 2, round 3, Punta del Este, Uruguay – update

Highlights – 5 minutes

Credit: FIA Formula E Championship

Extended Highlights – 15 minutes

Credit: FIA Formula E Championship

Complete results, including race & qualifying:
http://www.fiaformulae.com/en/all-results/season-2/punta-del-este-eprix.aspx

Driver standings:
http://www.fiaformulae.com/en/all-results/season-2/driver-standings.aspx

Team standings:
http://www.fiaformulae.com/en/all-results/season-2/team-standings.aspx / Formula E all electric racing series Formula E, season 2, round 3, Punta del Este, Uruguay ePrix stadium races F1 FIA electricity sport electric vehicles EV terrific acceleration pass passing possible tracks with tight corners technology range race organizers Spark-Renault SRT_01E built French company Spark Racing Technology carbon fiber aluminum chassis Dallara electric powertrain electronics McLaren Electronics Systems Williams Advanced Engineering building 200 kiloWatt battery pack batteries powertrain generate 270 horsepower five-speed paddle shift gearbox fixed gear ratios Michelin 18 inch tires wet dry conditions sound 80 decibel whine full grid 20 cars FIA Formula E strategy street courses dedicated circuits tire wear grip management battery life charge prematurely testing drivers learn knowledge teams construction constructors constructing FanBoost pit stop second fully charged car advances in battery technology battery swaps charging battery Renault Michelin DHL Qualcomm Richard Branson Virgin Racing team Leonardo DiCaprio Venturi team lithium ion LiIon battery charge recharge range battery management system BMS /

Few things as much fun as a magic trick (video)

On the other hand, sharing photographs on your phone is fun too:



Just for the record, both urangutans & gorillas, are apes, not monkeys. / urangutan magic trick Barcelona Zoo /

Formula E, season 2, round 3, Punta del Este, Uruguay

Formula E, season 2, round 3, Punta del Este, Uruguay is tomorrow, Saturday, 19 December 2015





Sadly, the Trulli team has left Formula E


Jaguar announced this week, a Formula E team for next season
http://hhg2tech.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/jaguar-returning-to-world-motorsport.html / Punta del Este, Uruguay Formula E all electric racing series ePrix stadium races F1 FIA electricity sport electric vehicles EV terrific acceleration pass passing possible tracks with tight corners technology range race organizers Spark-Renault SRT_01E built French company Spark Racing Technology carbon fiber aluminum chassis Dallara electric powertrain electronics McLaren Electronics Systems Williams Advanced Engineering building 200 kiloWatt battery pack batteries powertrain generate 270 horsepower five-speed paddle shift gearbox fixed gear ratios Michelin 18 inch tires wet dry conditions sound 80 decibel whine full grid 20 cars FIA Formula E strategy street courses dedicated circuits tire wear grip management battery life charge prematurely testing drivers learn knowledge teams construction constructors constructing FanBoost pit stop second fully charged car advances in battery technology battery swaps charging battery Renault Michelin DHL Qualcomm Richard Branson Virgin Racing team Leonardo DiCaprio Venturi team lithium ion LiIon battery charge recharge range battery management system BMS /

Elon Musk’s idea for powering the entire U.S. with solar energy

More on Elon Musk’s idea for powering the entire U.S. with solar energy generated on, “a little corner of Nevada or Utah”:
http://inhabitat.com/elon-musks-idea-for-powering-the-entire-u-s-with-solar-energy-holds-a-lot-of-water/?utm_source=BoomTrain+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=b7b33b5618-&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_87a7bf0b92-b7b33b5618-207235629

Clean Energy Future Report:
http://inhabitat.com/a-new-study-says-us-could-run-completely-on-clean-energy-by-2050/

Of course, renewables can power the rest of the world too. Last year, I reported on these pages on a plan to power Australia with renewables.

With subsidies of fossil fuels running at $10 million per minute world-wide, there is plenty of money to finance a move to renewables. / University of Melbourne Frank Larkins Australia’s targets increase renewable energy electricity more expensive problems consistency storage developments renewable energy integration electricity grids technically feasible scenarios Australian electricity industry 100 per cent renewable energy Sun shine irregular weather patterns uncertain intermittent power output electricity generators retailers money variability renewable energy sources better understood empirical experience wind power electricity grids hourly computer simulations demand states countries global regions South Australia coal fired coal-fired power stations gas fired gas-fired wind farms non-renewable energy supply Germany Schleswig-Holstein Mecklenburg-Vorpommern transmission links neighbouring states supply problems National Electricity Market (NEM) generation Ben Elliston Iain MacGill UNSW meet demand reliably papers published in peer-reviewed international journals, downloaded website mix Elon Musk forward-thinking technology buff serially successful businessman thinking about the world’s big problems possible solutions powering the entire United States with solar power analysis analyzed sense whole country powered a little corner of Nevada or Utah government leaders cooperated invested in infrastructure UN climate conference Musk address Paris 02 December 2 global policy makers business leaders speech Tesla SpaceX CEO very small segment of land capture solar energy convert electricity power entire nation very small area generate electricity power civilization little corner of Nevada or Utah power entire United States science Musk’s recommendation more than enough solar energy beams down on the U.S. each hour match electricity consumed in a year capture capturing collect collector solar power country’s energy consumption nation eventually run entirely on solar power solar taking the lead among energy sources by 2031 Musk’s concept Land Art Generator Initiative maps showing how little real estate necessary generate electricity needed 20 percent conversion rate optimal lab performance for solar panels area size of Spain source 100 percent electricity clean low-cost renewable source politicians energy industry on board /

This drone flies like a bird

As an ornithopter¹, this drone is unlikely to cause the eyeball-slicing injury that happened to 18-month-old Oscar Webb, but caution is still required when flying it anywhere near people.

http://the-gadgeteer.com/2015/12/14/bionic-bird-is-an-smartphone-controlled-winged-drone-that-flies-like-a-bird/

Manufacturer’s website
http://www.mybionicbird.com/


__________

¹ “Ornithopter”, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ornithopter / Bionic Bird smartphone controlled winged drone flapping wings flies like a bird drones expensive professional quality drone wing beat wings drones that you see are also called quadcopters propellers four rotors drone Bionic Bird drone looks like an actual bird 12 inch wingspan tail flaps its wings fly just like a real bird Bionic Bird drone controlled app smartphone reach altitudes of up to 328 feet fly up to 8 minutes 12 minute charge portable charger shaped like an egg egg recharge drone multiple times requires its own recharge Bionic Bird fly indoors or out /

Social media associated with depression & anxiety

In January 2012, almost 700,000 users unknowingly became experimental subjects, when they had their Facebook feed altered in an attempt to manipulate their emotional state.

More recently, it has come to light that (ethically questionable experiments aside) social media is associated with undesirable mental health consequences, depression & low self-esteem among them:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2015/04/08/new-study-links-facebook-to-depression-but-now-we-actually-understand-why/

https://medium.com/@katikrause/facebook-s-mental-health-problem-9c48374c1bd8#.tn9uy7hrj

http://www.digitaltrends.com/social-media/social-media-overuse-teen-anxiety/

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-08/wellbeing-survey-finds-teens-feeling-left-out-on-social-media/6921780 / irony Facebook social network linked undesirable mental health consequences depression low self-esteem bitter jealousy new study Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology Facebook depressive symptoms go hand-in-hand mediating factor well-established psychological phenomenon social comparison making comparisons our most humdrum moments our friends highlight reels vacation montages cute baby pics what links Facebook time depressive symptoms together time to cut down on Facebook adjust our attitude new study University of Houston researchers queried people Facebook use social comparisons compared with others how often experienced depressive symptoms people who used Facebook more have more depressive symptoms social comparison mediating factor for men doesn’t mean Facebook causes depression depressed feelings lots of time on Facebook comparing oneself to others hand in hand study author doctoral candidate Mai-Ly Steers doesn’t mean Facebook causes depression depressed feelings lots of time on Facebook comparing oneself to others go hand in hand study author doctoral candidate Mai-Ly Steers study face-to-face research social comparison found that upward social comparisons looking at someone more popular attractive than yourself make people feel worse downward comparisons comparing yourself someone lower grades than you make people feel better about themselves new study difference asking people how they felt viewed other people’s posts when I was on Facebook felt less confident what I have achieved compared to other people people logged more Facebook time more depressive symptoms social comparison in any direction mediator both sexes making upward downward neutral social comparison all linked greater likelihood for depressive symptoms /

Jaguar returning to world motorsport – Formula E championship in 2016-2017 season

Credit: Jaguar Land Rover/The Guardian

“It is my belief that over the next five years we will see more changes in the automotive world than in the last three decades. Formula E has recognised & reacted to these trends & the championship's exciting & pioneering approach is the perfect fit for our brand.” – Nick Rogers, Group Engineering Director for Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover have plans for electric road cars too.

http://www.fiaformulae.com/en/news/2015/december/jaguar-returns-to-racing.aspx

http://www.theguardian.com/business/2015/dec/15/jaguar-to-join-formula-e-championship-electric-cars

http://www.theverge.com/2015/12/10/9885990/jaguar-land-rover-electric-car-formula-e-team / Jaguar returns to global motor sport Jaguar announced return global motorsport fall autumn 2016 Jaguar enter third season FIA Formula E Championship manufacturer its own team FIA Formula E unique opportunity Jaguar Land Rover JLR develop future EV powertrain motor battery technology Nick Rogers Group Engineering Director Jaguar Land Rover proud announce Jaguar's return to racing entry innovative FIA Formula E championship electric vehicle EV play a role Jaguar Land Rover's future product portfolio Formula E unique opportunity further development electrification technologies Championship engineer test advanced technologies extreme performance conditions more changes automotive world Formula E recognised reacted trends Formula E championship exciting pioneering approach perfect fit our brand Alejandro Agag Chief Executive Officer Formula E welcome Jaguar Formula E Jaguar brand rich sporting heritage returning global motorsport Formula E huge endorsement championship influence development electric cars Jaguar passionate fan base drive popularity Formula E championship Formula E is the future of motorsport Jean Todt President FIA series offer alternative competition manufacturers step into sport develop road-relevant electric technologies Jaguar come back to motor racing Formula E forges path forward future electric car Formula E most prestigious historical brand automotive industry 2016/20172016 2017 Jaguar’s team presentation drivers partners season three /

Toddler's eyeball sliced in half by drone propeller

In Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire, UK, 18-month-old Oscar Webb had his eye sliced in half by a drone. Needless to say, Oscar lost his eye as a result.


Oscar Webb & his parents after the accident
Credit: news.com.au

This item includes guidance for safe drone flying:
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-34936739

http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/kids/i-saw-a-bit-of-his-eye-land-on-his-tshirt-toddlers-horror-drone-injury/news-story/5c7ec9b78a39871a65a130362ad3d42e

Oscar Webb's experience was disastrous, but unfortunately, by no means unique:



Check the video above. People having fun, the drones adding something different. Then this:

TGI Friday drone crashes into woman's face and cuts it open in restaurant
http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/news/tgi-friday-drone-crashes-into-womans-face-and-cuts-it-open-in-restaurant-9911934.html

11-month old girl injured after private drone crash
http://abc7.com/news/baby-injured-after-private-drone-crashes-in-pasadena/987551/

Man comes forward after woman knocked out by drone
http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-33345417

Pilots report increased near-collisions with drones
http://hhg2tech.blogspot.com/2014/11/pilots-report-increased-near-collisions.html

A few things to consider:

● a few years ago, the only way to make something this small fly, was with a small two-stroke motor (less than 10 c.c.) & the racket served as a warning

● these things are dangerous

● from reading the accounts, it is clear that at least some of the operators' lives have been adversely affected by these events

● think carefully before you operate a drone anywhere near people

● be particulrly aware of children, who are likely to behave unpredictably & with little concern for their own safety

● if a drone is operating near you, be aware of the safety implications – consider leaving the area

● with Xmas just a few days away, the number of drones is about to increase significantly

/ toddler eyeball sliced in half drone propeller 18-month-old boy lost eye hit by a drone flown family friend Oscar Webb eye sliced in half propeller operator Simon Evans lost control drone toddler Stourport-on-Severn Worcestershire UK United Kingdom Britain first drone injury Oscar surgeon many more Evans brought it back down land clipped tree span spun round heard my friend shriek Oh God no blood his baby on the floor crying Oscar's mother Amy Roberts ambulance taking Oscar to hospital Birmingham opened his eye I can still see it now the worst thing I've ever seen Oscar's accident family were unaware potential safety issues surrounding drones Faye Mellington consultant oculoplastics orbital surgery Sandwell West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust team outlook for Oscar's vision long term was extremely poor see out of his uninjured eye guidance for safe drone flying check drone for damage all components working in accordance with user manual drone within the operator's sight at all times operator responsible avoiding collisions people objects drone flown endanger people or property illegal fly drones over congested areas streets towns or cities stay clear airports airfields fly drones within 50m person vehicle building structure overhead groups of people at any height drones /

Add a better camera to your phone

DxO ONE attached to an iPhone
Credit: Shutterbug

Best camera for the photograph you wish to take? – the one you have with you. For most people, most of the time, that means a phone camera. It comes as no surprise to anyone that more photographs are taken with phone cameras than any other type of camera.

Fundamental to a phone camera, as with the phone which contains it, is small size. Thus (with few exceptions), sensor & lens are tiny, & optical zoom is not available. The few exceptions are in thick, heavy phones which have enjoyed few sales.

Sony was first to conceive of a solution, in the form of its QX series "smart lenses". These “lenses” are actually complete cameras, less viewfinder, which can clip to almost any smartphone. With the phone screen providing viewfinder capability, an app, & Wifi connection, the combination provides at least point-&-shoot capability. Inherent in the WiFi connection, is the option of remote operation.

Recently, 2 more add on cameras have appeared to expand the photographic capability of smartphones. Like the Sony smart lenses, the DxO ONE & Olympus AIR attach to a smartphone, use the phone screen as a viewfinder, & control interface. Beyond that they are very different.

DxO ONE – “the World's First Truly Connected Camera”

•  major design parameters: small size & image quality

•  20.1 megapixel, 1” (12.8 x 9.6 mm)¹ type sensor

•  32mm², F1.8 lens, i.e. no zoom

•  plugs into an iOS device via the Lightning socket for both data & mechanical connection

•  no remote operation capability

http://www.shutterbug.com/content/new-20mp-dxo-one-imaging-device-promises-dslr-quality-images-your-iphone-hands-preview#fmq5WsdUik14B8T1.97

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/5778413776/dxo-one-the-world-s-first-truly-connected-camera

http://www.dxo.com/us/dxo-one

Olympus AIR


Olympus AIR attached to phone
Credit: notey.com


Phone & Olympus AIR attached to 1,200mm telephoto¹ lens
Credit: Photo Rumours

•  16 megapixel, 4/3 format (17.3mm x 13.0mm)¹ sensor

•  28-84mm² zoom lens included but accepts other Olympus lenses

•  data connection via WiFi & Bluetooth to any Android or iOS device

•  clamp allows physical connection to almost any smartphone

•  remote operation capability

•  open architecture – SDK (Software Developer's Kit) & physical design files available

http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/olympus-air-a01/olympus-air-a01A.HTM

http://www.techradar.com/au/reviews/cameras-and-camcorders/cameras/compact-cameras/olympus-air-a01-1298009/review
__________

¹ "Image sensor format", https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image_sensor_format#Table_of_sensor_formats_and_sizes

² full frame (35mm film) equivalent / zoom telephoto lens interchangeable lens fixed lens larger sensor /

Patent wars – finally at an end?

iPhone prototype
Credit: Apple/BGR

After a court battle that lasted nearly five years, Samsung has agreed to pay Apple $548 million in damages for infringing a number of iPhone & iPad patents. Durng those 5 years, we’ve seen such things as:

•      Google complaining that, “We didn’t believe rounded corners were patentable.”

 •     a judge pleading for “global peace”

 •     Apple claiming $2.5bn from Samsung, while Samsung counter-claimed $420 million

And we’ve also seen many intriguing revelations from the otherwise obsessively-secretive Apple, including:


iPhone prototype with curved glass on both sides was too expensive for production
Credit: Apple/BGR

More:
https://bgr.com/2015/12/07/apple-secrets-iphone-ipad-samsung-lawsuit/ / contentious patent battle raged on nearly five years Samsung last week finally agreed to pay Apple $548 million damages infringing iPhone iPad patents Samsung holding out hope someday recover those millions finally start closing the book most widely publicized patent dispute recent memory Apple Samsung battle it out courtrooms across the globe Apple legal battle with Samsung unprecedented look behind veil of secrecy typically shrouds all aspects Apple’s product development day-to-day operations over the course of discovery innumerable court filings fascinating trial inner workings of Apple first time in history photographs of iPhone prototypes Apple conducts market research Apple legal battles Samsung tech enthusiasts treasure trove previously top-secret information Samsung agreeing pony up for damages interesting nuggets information hard-fought patent dispute crazy iPhone Prototypes most intriguing items Apple and Samsung’s trial iPhone prototypes interesting designs iPhone prototype with 8 sides interesting bizarre designs Apple black and white design earliest known iPhone prototypes circular dots indication of signal strength vertical bars Apple implement the five circular dots shipping iPhone Jony Ive full control look and feel of iOS extremely early iPhone prototype icons copies OS X counterparts another point of interest home button menu label on it bulky iPhone prototype inspired iPhone 4 design how iPhone project started trial Apple executives incredibly detailed information early days of iPhone development more interesting tidbits to emerge early beginnings and software Control of the iPhone team Scott Forstall Steve Jobs Forstall free rein hire anyone any division within the company team Forstall couldn’t even tell them what they’d be working on work hard give up nights work weekends for years you will work harder than you ever have in your entire life initial development iPhone Project Purple dorm dormatory smelled like pizza security was air-tight video cameras card readers show their badges five or six times access key development areas original iPhone team Fight Club poster first rule of Project Purple don’t talk about Project Purple double-tap to zoom constantly enacting pinch-to-zoom software aside industrial design team sleek hardware testifying at trial long time Apple industrial designer Christopher Stringer hardware and industrial design Apple’s industrial design group iPhone development 16 maniacal individuals imagine products that don’t exist and guide them to life Apple’s industrial design group collaborates closely often exchange sketches ideas for current upcoming products feedback suggested designs iterative process is extensive single design element 50 proposed mockups Apple’s industrial design group designers extensive feedback how various designs durability during drop-testing early iPad prototypes featured kickstand Microsoft Surface kickstand Apple earliest iPad prototypes kickstand original iPhone curved during trial first iPhone release device featuring two curved pieces of glass technology cut glass Apple’s specifications too expensive scale prototypes curved device built Apple idea of a car years ago on the stand Apple executive Phil Schiller brainstorming product ideas build success of the iPod searching for what to do after iPod make the iPod some of the ideas tossed around dedicated camera car former Apple executive Tony Fadell Jobs back in 2008 talked about Apple Car might look like Apple keeps its iOS source code locked down Apple Samsung’s 2012 trial Henri Lamiraux key VP of iOS engineering keep portions of Apple’s iOS source code sealed Apple source code provided highest level of protection security physical access iOS source code limited select groups authorized Apple employees access being provided only to portions of code need-to-know basis access limited employees directly involved software development approved management authorized employees accounts specifically granted access Apple hated Samsung The next big thing is already here ad campaign
Samsung well-done ads lampooning stereotypical Apple fan private emails made public at trial Apple’s Phil Schiller hated Apple had no adequate response Samsung’s jabs suggest to Tim Cook company needed hire brand new ad agency most iPhone buyers use cases Apple survey /

Wired outs likely Bitcoin creator – AFP raid

Credit: redef.com

On Tuesday, 08 December 2015, Wired outed unknown Australian genius, Craig Steven Wright, as the likely creator of Bitcoin.

http://www.wired.com/2015/12/bitcoins-creator-satoshi-nakamoto-is-probably-this-unknown-australian-genius/?mbid=nl_12815

To have made money mining Bitcoins it was necessary to start early. Don’t expect to make money by starting now. Obviously, the creator of Bitcoin was the earliest miner. As such, that publicity averse creator is reputed to be the holder of one million Bitcoins, worth around $400 million.

So yesterday (Wednesday 09 December), more than a dozen Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers raided the Sydney home of Craig Steven Wright, at the behest of the Australian Tax Office (ATO).

If the AFP response to the Wired post, at around 24 hours, seems fast, remember that due to daylight saving, at the moment, Sydney, Australia is 16 hours ahead of New York. So the response time is closer to 8 hours than 24. All of which suggests that Craig Steven Wright has been on the ATO radar for some time.

http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2015/12/09/australian-police-raid-sydney-home-reported-bitcoin-creator / Australian Federal Police AFP raided Sydney home named by Wired magazine probable creator cryptocurrency bitcoin Reuters witness property registered Australian electoral role roll Craig Steven Wright Wired outed likely real identity Satoshi Nakamoto alias pseudonym pseudonymous released bitcoin code 2009 more dozen Australian Federal Police Officers entered house Sydney north shore Wednesday locksmiths broke open door one officer told Reuters reporter clearing the house Australian Federal Police statement officers Mr. Wright's property media reporting Bitcoins AFP referred all inquiries raid Australian Tax Office police raid Australia hours Wired magazine technology website Gizmodo published articles investigations showed Wright Australian academic probably secretive bitcoin creator investigations based on leaked emails documents Web archives transcript meeting Wright Australian Tax Office identity Satoshi Nakamoto mystery journalists bitcoin enthusiasts tried unravel author paper protocol software gave rise cryptocurrency New York Times Newsweek publications guessed Nakamoto real identity conclusive uncovering identity significant solving long-standing riddle future of the currency early miner bitcoins Nakamoto one 1 million bitcoins worth more than $400 million present exchange rates bitcoin expert Sergio Demian Lerner Bitcoin’s Creator Satoshi Nakamoto unknown Australian genius /

Porsche EV plans confirmed

Credit: Porsche/Charged EVs

As reported previously in these pages, Porsche has plans to produce an electric vehicle. Details have firmed up a little, in the form of Mission E.

Announced specifications include:

four doors
600 hp (440 kW)
floor-mounted battery pack
range over 500 kilometers (310 miles)

Porsche has developed an 800-volt charger & has demonstrated a wireless charging system.

https://chargedevs.com/newswire/porsche-going-ahead-with-mission-e-ev/

http://www.gizmag.com/porsche-mission-e-production/40786/ / Mission E EV electrically powered Porsche German sports car sportscar manufacturer project called Mission E launching new EV Porsche expansion upgrades Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen plant expanding expand existing engine factory production of electric motors Mission E concept Frankfurt Motor Show four-door car four door car power output 600 hp 440 kW floor-mounted battery pack range over 500 kilometers Porsche 800-volt charger electric vehicle EV demonstrated demonstrate wireless charging system Mission E Dr. Wolfgang Porsche chairman Supervisory Board sports car electric mobility Chairman Executive Board Dr. Oliver Blume solely battery-powered sports cars Porsche sportiest technologically most sophisticated battery lithium ion LiIon charge recharge range /

Riding a motorcycle on water – video – update

Some videos you may have seen of motorcycles appearing to be ridden on water are actually passing through very shallow water, with the tyres rarely leaving the ground. When filmed from the side, there is no way to tell how shallow the water is.

In this video, the motorcycle has a planing surface fitted to provide lift at speed on the water, but it does not appear to have any flotation device. It also uses a paddle rear tyre to create thrust to drive the motorcycle over the surface.

Video is 43 minutes long.



Since posting this item, I recalled that the Mythbusters did something on riding a motorcycle on water. The video is much shorter, but as I recall, & the video appears to show, no hydrofoil used & the tires are conventional knobbies. Check at the 1:30 mark.



Formula Offroad in Iceland. Looks like paddle tyres in use.



Quad bike

/ motorcycle bike motorbike motor bike hydroplane knobby tyre hydroplane hydroplaning plane water dirt bike trail bike scrambler thrust drive lift vertical force weight back more speed ski angle plane planing surface foil hydrofoil shockwave speed velocity Snowdonia Lake force hydraulic lock /

Liquid cooling for Samsung Galaxy S7?

Credit: Fujitsu/Android Police

Liquid cooled phones are not a completely new idea, but the rumour mill is suggesting it for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S7.

Other rumours include:

•      Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chip for improved performance – which may explain the liquid cooling references – its predecessor, the Snapdragon 810, had heat problems

•      unchanged 5.1in 2,560x1,440 Super AMOLED screen

•      major camera upgrade

•      microSD card slot – missing from the S6

•      even tougher display glass

•      Android Marshmallow

•      announcement at MWC (22-25 February 2016)

/ Samsung Galaxy S7 release date specifications specs price rumours same design Qualcomm's Snapdragon 820 heat could cause problems round up roundup latest rumours Galaxy S7 released release early 2016 Samsung Galaxy S6 Galaxy S5 Samsung completely change materials revamped design more modern look feel upcoming Galaxy S7 very similar design more substantial changes under the hood improvements picture quality performance boost performance Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 820 chip internal heat pipe suppliers new handset apparent overheating problems Snapdragon 810 heat pipes heat dissipation launch dates yearly release schedules launch the Galaxy S7 S7 Edge CES show Las Vegas performance design newer stronger glass panel glass cover Turtle Glass Corning Gorilla Glass top-end smartphones magnesium-based alloy chassis better heat dissipation lighter phone durability aluminium build quality stronger type of glass display 5.1in 2,560x1,440 Super AMOLED screen next-generation galaxy 4K 3,840x2,160 resolution draw more power affect battery life photos and video press-sensitive displays Apple's 3D Touch panels Synaptics' ClearForce technology force-sensitive touch interface processor chipset /

When molten lava meets water

When water meets lava at over 2,050 degrees Farenheit (1,121 Celcius), the water flashes to steam with spectacular & potentially dangerous consequences. Scientists are investigating:



In nature, something similar happens. In Hawaii, lava from the Kilauea volcano reaches the Pacific Ocean after a seven mile (11 km) journey.

/ lava larva magma volcano lava reaches Pacific Ocean Kamokuna seven mile journey Pu'u O'o vent Kilauea Volcano geology geologist flash boil steam superheated steam explosion volcano volcanic nature Hawaii lava Kilauea volcano ocean geology geologist igneous rock basalt /

Smartrope counts your jumps

LEDs embedded in the rope display the jump count in the air in front of you. Rechargable, with a Bluetooth linked app on your smartphone. A choice of different length ropes accommodates users from 4’6″ (137 cm) to 6’7″ (201cm).

Two sets of ball bearings in the handles make swinging the rope silky-smooth.

http://the-gadgeteer.com/2015/12/04/smart-rope-makes-jumping-rope-fun-again/#more-190266

Manufacturere’s web site:
http://tangramfactory.com/home/htm/pc_eng.htm / Tangram jumping rope jump rope skip skipping fun again Smart Rope makes Smart Rope so awesome 23 embedded LEDs rope display in mid-air number of jumps future software updates select modes app allow rope display calories burned interval training data magnetic sensors accurately detects completion each revolution rope handles contain two sets ball bearings ensure rope swings smoothly two hours of charging micro-USB cable 36 hours of active use over a month’s of daily hour-long workouts handles chrome gold black colors colours add soft grips silicone five colors blue green pink orange neutral Smart Rope used independently without being connected device blutooth connection device smartphone smart phone Bluetooth ready works with Smart Gym app iOS Android devices app provides number jumps completed calories burned does not sense heart rate calories burned approximate exercise duration show your data week month year rope not adjustable five lengths available accommodate users Smart Rope available Tangram $89.99 pouch exercise cardio /

Metadata retention – what is it & is it important?

Around the world, governments are planning, or have already begun, collecting data about their citizens’ use of mobile communications & the Internet. In most cases, they do not plan to capture the content of phone calls, emails or web pages: merely metadata. E.g. calls who, where from, who sends emails to whom, addresses of web pages visited. This metadata will be available to authorities without a warrant.

“It’s only metadata,” is commonly heard.

This raises two questions:

1.    If metadata is of no importance, why do authorities wish to collect it?

2.    Just what information can be gleaned from metadata?

In Australia, metadata collection & retention for two years, became compulsory on 13 October 2015. An employee of the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) acquired a copy of his metadata from his mobile carrier & made it available to the public to see what they could find out about him. This is what they found:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-08-16/metadata-retention-privacy-phone-will-ockenden/6694152

What is metadata, & is it important?
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-17/metadata-data-retention-what-is-it/6324962 / your phone tracks your every move digital age how much of your life is actually private ABC reporter Will Ockenden access metadata data looks like many of our actions leave behind electronic footprint collects data critical questions modern society Australia's new data retention laws phone internet companies save information two years every time you call someone where you call them from which cell tower your phone pings connects internet what data might reveal ABC reporter Will Ockenden surveillance selfie access metadata individual Australian's metadata tracking device critics Australia's data retention law mass surveillance metadata track where people go Attorney-General Department map shows every time phone communicated cell mobile tower outgoing call text message internet connection markers locations cell towers phone contacted direction of travel route time of connections daily routine mandatory data retention Federal Government security agencies nothing to worry about metadata content of communications Prime Minister Tony Abbott data system generates metadata dataset contained year outgoing call SMS records six months data sessions records kept phone connected internet cellular mobile network simple data request 13,000 individual records 1,500 outgoing phone calls SMS 11,200 records data sessions time date phone connected mobile network cell tower connected to smartphone Will carrying tracking device logged roughly where he was every 20 minutes Government departments police security agencies all the data more without the need for a warrant pattern recognition follow daily movements collate visualise data patterns heatmaps phone communicated different cell towers patterns ping pings journeys filter heatmaps patterns emerge time slices intimate portrait aspects life tools explore metadata conclusions where you live how gets to and from work when he leaves town where he goes social network metadata show information about an individual connections to other people organisations major main most important top 10 contacts people communicates with most often contact how and when communicated with them preserve their privacy relationships concealed contacts' identities patterns data showed scarily accurate provided analysis metadata many insights about life revealed data dataset mobile cell provider Telstra who he called texted dataset phone numbers how long each phone call lasted time of the communication location of the cell tower contacted outgoing calls were initiated location cell tower contacted SMS Internet connections data kept by telcos Internet providers data retention laws not included in the dataset details of incoming phone calls time date size recipients emails sent ISP's email service webmail services Gmail Yahoo Hotmail file type size attachments sent received emails using ISP's email service internet usage how much bandwidth internet service provides /

Which is Nerdier: Star Wars or Star Trek?

It’s a vexed question which exercises serious minds everywhere. For a definitive answer, CollegeHumor gathered together two of the most central figures for a debate:



More at: www.collegehumor.com / Star Trek Star Wars Luke Skywalker Dart Vader Obi-Wan Kenobi Ben Kenobi fictional character Star Wars universe played by Alec Guinness Ewan McGregor Wookiee Wookie Star Wars Wookieepedia Chewbacca Chewie Death Star C-3P0 Padme Amidala Qui-Gon Jinn Liam Neeson Anakin Anakin Skywalker Lando Calrissian Jawa Jabba The Hutt Princess Leia Organa Carrie Frances Fisher Stormtrooper Yoda R2-D2 Han Solo Harrison Ford Jedi Captain James Tiberius Kirk Jim Commander Data Captain Jean-Luc Picard Enterprise Mr Spock George Takei Mr Sulu Hikaru Sulu Leonard McCoy Montgomery Scott Scotty Nyota Uhura Pavel Chekov Number One William Riker Deanna Troi Beverly Crusher Geordi La Forge Worf Klingon Tasha Yar Wesley Crusher Guinan Whoopi Goldberg /