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Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Robust Power Banks That Can Juice Up Your Laptop



Laptops are considered helpful in a way that you don't have to be connected in a fixed power source in order to use it. However, your laptop's mileage will depend on your battery. Luckily, there are power banks available today that are built to power up laptops. They feature battery capacities large enough to give life to a dying laptop. Here are some of the best performing yet affordable power banks you can choose from.

Maxoak 50000

With a battery capacity of 50,000 mAh, the Maxoak 50000 is one of the largest capacity power banks out in the market today. It features six output ports, all of which can be used simultaneously. Outputs include one 20V/3A for laptops, one 12V/2.5A, two 5V/2.1A quick charge USB ports and two 5V/1A standard USB ports.

This power bank comes with fourteen different laptop connectors, so it’s safe to say finding one to fit your laptop won’t be an issue. Additionally, the unit uses a lithium-ion polymer battery rated for 1000+ recharge cycles. As we’ve come to expect, the unit features LED indicators to display the remaining power level. Measuring 8.1″ x 5.3″ x 1.3″, the MaxOak is only slightly larger than other laptop power banks. However, at 2.77lb, it is one of the more odd item in the market.

RAVPower USB-C Power Bank

If your laptop's battery charging port is in USB, then this is the perfect power bank for you. The RAVPower USB-C Power Bank is designed specifically for USB-C devices from Macbooks to the Nintendo Switch. Boasting a 26,800 mAh battery, this device offers up to 30W of power, which is the same as an original AC Macbook charger.

A little reminder to check your device to ensure that it does not draw more than 30W. If it does, then this power bank is not compatible with your device.

Aside from that, the RAVPower USB-C power bank has two 2.4A USB charging ports. Furthermore, the unit’s battery can be recharged via the Type-C port in just four to five hours. This is a big contrast to the standard fourteen-hour recharge time.

DBPOWER Laptop Power Bank

Coined as one of the cheapest power bank options in the market so far, the DBPower Laptop Power Bank costs at less than $100. And because of that, this device has a maximum charging capacity of up to 26,400 mAh only. What makes it unique from the rest is that it opts for a full-sized AC outlet to power laptops. This means you don’t have to worry about compatible connector tips. The disadvantage of it though is that you have to lug around your laptop’s original charger.

With the DBPower Laptop Power Bank, users can power any electronic devices up to 80W such as hair dryer, projector, or drone. In addition to the AC outlet, the DBPower Laptop Powerbank features two 5V/2.2A USB charging ports. Furthermore, it supports simultaneous USB and AC charging.

Jackery PowerBar

Just like the DBPower Laptop Power Bank, the Jackery PowerBar also utilizes a standard AC outlet to power up computers. But unlike the DBPower, the Jackery PowerBar packs a respectable 20,800 mAh battery into a fairly small package. Measuring 6.5″ x 2.5″ x 2.5″ and weighing only 1.5 lbs, it’s one of the smallest and lightest laptop power banks on the market.

This small but terrible power bank has the strength of providing a whopping 85W of power. Aside from the AC power outlet, the PowerBar also features three 5V 2.4A USB charging ports.

Thursday, April 26, 2018

Ways on How You Can Meditate With Amazon Echo and Alexa



Are you looking for a quick stress reliever? Do you feel the need to relax? One of the best ways to achieve this is by meditation -- with the help of your none other than Amazon Echo! Through the Alexa app, you can listen to guided meditations to help calm your body, mind, and spirit.

The Amazon Echo has some helpful skills that give you a certain meditation based on the time of day or a specific need. Others will help you unwind before bed, fall asleep easier, become happier, or just to relax from a tiring weekday.

Search for a Meditation Skill
You can browse for meditation skills and related items through two distinct categories. Open the Alexa app on your phone or tablet (or on the web). Tap on the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) for the mobile apps > Skills > Categories button. The categories for Health & Fitness and Lifestyle both contain skills for meditation. Find more helpful skills by searching for the word "meditation." Now let’s review some individual skills.

Headspace
Say: "Alexa, open Headspace." A soft, soothing voice named Andy explains the benefits of meditation and guides you through the process. Pause (and then resume) at any time. Ask for specific types of meditation. Say: "Alexa, ask Headspace for today's meditation," and Andy serves up the meditation of the day. Say: "Alexa, tell Headspace I want to wind down" or "Alexa, tell Headspace I'm ready for sleep," and Andy offers you a meditation designed to help you get ready for rest. Thanks, Andy.

Meditation Studio
Say: "Alexa, open Meditation Studio." Alexa welcomes you to the virtual studio and lists the types of meditations available, such as sleep, stress, happiness, and performance. Tell Alexa which topics interest you, and she suggests at least a couple of meditations. Choose which you want, and a soft voice guides you through. You can pause and then restart the meditation. Trigger a specific meditation by saying: "Alexa, ask Meditation Studio to play a Happiness Meditation" or "Alexa, ask Meditation Studio to play a Stress Meditation."

Guided Meditation: Meditation for the Day for Calm
Say "Alexa, open Guided Meditation." A gentle voice guides you through meditation of between three and eight minutes in length. The selected meditations are designed to help relieve anxiety, stress, depression, sleep problems, and other issues. If the current meditation doesn't do the trick for you, say: "Alexa, play next," and the next guided meditation plays.

Sweet Dreams: Sounds & Meditation for Sleep
Say: "Alexa, open Sweet Dreams." Alexa asks if you want to hear a sound or mediation. Choose either one or request one by name. If you don't know, say: "Alexa, ask Sweet Dreams to list sounds" or "Alexa, ask Sweet Dreams to list meditations." Sounds include rain, surf, stream, forest, canyon, desert, and brook. Guided meditations include Falling Asleep, Soften and Relax, Breathing in Waves, Review the Day, and Welcoming the Day. Once you know the sound or meditation you want, request it by saying something like "Alexa, ask Sweet Dreams to play Falling Asleep." A soothing voice then guides you through the meditation.

One Minute Meditation
Say: "Alexa, open One Minute Meditation." This skill offers you a one-minute guided meditation for times when you need a quick relaxation break. A gentle voice guides you through some deep breathing as a pause from your busy day.


Friday, January 12, 2018

Browsers That are Highly Recommended to Your Kids



For us adults, it's so convenient to go to just any web browser when we need information. It's a different story when it's our kids that are going to search the Internet. Do you have a browser that's installed on your PC or mobile device that's specifically for your little rascals? If you haven't got one yet, check out some of these kid-friendly browsers that your child will truly enjoy using.

KidRex


KidRex is a little different from the above-mentioned browser. First of all, the design is as if a kid actually drew it which makes it even better. It doesn’t have the images, videos, etc. options but it still offers the information you need.

KidRex also has a section where you can see the drawings kids made of the search engine. It doesn’t say how you can send them in, but I think you can by clicking on the “Contact Us” option at the bottom.

Kiddle


Kiddle is a very colorful kid-friendly browser that’s powered by Google. It features s funny-looking red robot on Mars for the kids to enjoy. Instead of the word Google, you’ll see Kiddle and the search bar where the kids can do their searching.

Just like Google, below the search bar kids can either look for images, Web, Kimages (images from Kiddle encyclopedia), video, and Kpedia. If you see a page that you consider inappropriate for kids, just click on the “Site blocking” link at the bottom and fill out the short form.

KidSplorer Web Browser

KidSplorer Web Browser can also help keep your kids safe while they’re online. Your kids can only visit the sites you whitelisted, and you can remove, edit, or add URLs. You can make the browser run at startup if you want or can just manually launch it.

This kid-friendly browser can also block access to the Internet for the times you specify. So if the kids should be doing their homework, you can rest assured they won’t be able to go online. Kids won’t be able to switch programs that are installed on the computer, and you can also set up different website lists for each of your kids.

KidzSearch


KidzSearch is a browser made especially for kids that uses Google Safe Search. This way your kids will only come across content that is suitable for their age. When they first access the browser, kids will see age-appropriate videos and content.
To the left they will see options such as music, pictures, games, Kidz Tube and one that will take them to the top-rated kid sites. The browser also integrates voice search and a help option as well.

Safe Search Kids


Safe Search Kids not only has a very colorful design but also offers more than just a browser for kids to use. Kids can get help with their math and also read up on tips on how they can deal with cyberbullying and how to post images online.
This browser is powered by Google’s safe search too so you can rest assured your kids won’t run into content they shouldn’t. Safe Search Kids also has an option so kids can visit the best websites for them.

Kidoz: Discover the Best


Kidoz is not only a browser for kids but also a launcher with an ad blocker, no in-app purchases for kids, kid-friendly camera and photo gallery, and there are also handpicked videos for preschoolers and babies that are updated daily.
You can either allow or disallow any of the browsing kids websites included in the app, but this would fall under the Premium features. To unlock every feature in the app, it will set you back $8.31.

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Cool Nerdy Gifts for Your Tech-Savvy Loved Ones



Since technology is constantly on an changing pace, it's considered a never-ending race in order to keep up with it. But admit it, your brother or sister or even grandmother may be addicted to it. It's a fact that geeks still exist, whether they're a relative or a friend, they need gifts on their special occasion, too. And with the scores of tech-related products to choose from, picking the right one for them may be a challenge.

So here are our suggested nerdy but cool gift suggestions you may find helpful to give to your geek "loved ones."


Amazon Echo (2nd Generation)
The all-new Amazon Echo is one of the coolest gifts in its price range. It has a sleek new design and much better sound quality than its predecessor. The device's Dolby-tuned pair of audio drivers deliver a more robust bass, while seven built-in microphones ensure that Alexa will hear you better than ever. The available finishes for the speaker include great-looking fabric and wood choices, which will enable it to seamlessly blend into the decor of any room.
Price: $79.99 at Amazon


GoPro HERO6 Black Action Camera
The HERO6 Black by GoPro is a great gift for people who love action sports. It's sleek, compact, easy to operate, and better-connected than any of its competitors. It can capture 4K video at a barely believable 60 frames per second, as well as bursts of 12 MP images, and it can go up to 33 feet underwater without a housing.
Price: $499 at Amazon


Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch can seamlessly transition from a mobile gaming device to a home entertainment center by docking it into a station. With innovative Joy-Con controllers, a fun selection of games that includes a hot new Zelda installment, and a cool selection of accessories, the Switch has been a hot commodity since its launch for good reason. It's a great gift for gamers of all ages.
Price: $299 at Amazon


Bose SoundSport Free Wireless Earbuds
The Bose SoundSport Free are the industry giant's first truly wireless earbuds. A fantastic gift for workout warriors, they have a lightweight body with an IPX4 rating for water resistance, a seamless fit, and up to a rather impressive five hours of battery life. The bundled battery case provides an additional 10 hours of wireless tunes. Users can also connect the SoundSport Wireless to a mobile app and tweak their sonic experience.
Price: $250 at Amazon


Prynt Pocket Instant Photo Printer for iPhone
The Prynt Pocket turns an iPhone into an instant camera, capable of 2-by-3-inch prints on a zero ink paper. Compatible with any iPhone 6/6 Plus and up, the gadget also comes with handy camera controls, as well as a dedicated app for editing the images before printing them out. By utilizing augmented reality, it also allows you to "embed" video in your prints -- the clips will play when you hover your iPhone above them. There are four colors to choose from: gray, graphite, lavender, and mint green. This Prynt Pocket is the perfect gift for avid mobile shutterbugs.
Price: $150 at Amazon


Fitbit Ionic Smartwatch
The Fitbit Ionic smartwatch is the company's most capable product. Among its key features include an accurate heart-rate tracker and GPS, as well as the ability to deliver guided workouts. The device is fully waterproof, so you can take it with you on your swimming activities. You can install apps on the smartwatch, make payments, and receive notifications from your smartphone as well. Fitbit offers a number of interchangeable bands for the Ionic.
Price: $299 at Amazon


5 Specialty Web Browsers You Should Try Right Now



One of the most important aspects of the Internet is the experience of browsing tons of different websites right at your fingertips. Whether you are bookmarking on Mozilla, switching between different users on Chrome, or just simply upgrading to Internet explorer 11/Edge, the possibilities are endless. The top browsers provide more than enough options for you to get by with regular “Internet surfing”-related tasks. But what if you are truly in for a thrill, too cool for the status quo or heard a thing or two about some extra features you could use?

Check out these five specialty web browsers you probably haven't heard of until now.

Lunascape


Lunascape is a specialty web browser that allows you to switch between Webkit, Trident, and Chromium frameworks. An uncommon feat that enables you to carry out page rendering tests on one window. Lunascape is not without its hassles and rough edges such as incessant crashing and a non-user friendly menu. But if you are looking for something lightweight and cross-browser testing friendly (which is a wonderful thing if you are a web developer), Lunascape is for you.

Torch


True web browsing experience lies beyond surfing static pages; video and music streaming account for a fair share of the browsing experience today. Torch is built specifically for media use. It features a torrent manager for easy download and peer-to-peer on-screen sharing. You can save YouTube videos and so much more. Torch is the browser for media-savvy users.

Maxthon


Maxthon is an award winning browser with an in-built cloud feature. Maxthon flaunts a unique dual-core design that runs on WebKit and Trident. Maxthon’s cloud features helps readability and easy surfing. You can find the screengrab option on the top corner which saves you some minutes of fooling around. The browser boasts over 670 million users and is available for Android and iOS. Maxthon has an ad blocker.

Stainless


Stainless comes with a remarkable interface, arguably one of the best in the industry. Of other specialty web browsers, Stainless is the one created as a direct rival to Chrome. A webKit-based browser just as Google Chrome and Safari are, Stainless is also touted as the Google Chrome for Mac. One of its most impressive features is the ability to log into separate user accounts on different tabs. This means you can easily juggle between your Personal Mail and Business Mail accounts without having to log out.

SeaMonkey



Seamonkey can be described as an all inclusive Internet hub of apps. This standard browser is developed by Mozilla and comes with a host of features (user and developer alike). SeaMonkey integrates directly with your mail and houses an HTML editor and a plethora of web development tools including a Javascript debugger. SeaMonkey balances the oddities between user and developer. Whichever camp you find yourself in, this is a browser worth every click.

Cheap Tech Devices That Will Surely Make Your Life Easier



Admit it, most, if not all, tech-oriented people would confirm that cutting-edge smartphones or 4K TVs are to drool over. However, there are still lots of inexpensive gadgets that can surely make your life better and easier. The truth is, you don't need to break the bank in order for you to experience the little joys of technology.

So here is a collection of cheap yet useful gadgets that can make sense to your everyday life.


Syllable Wireless Earbuds D900 Mini
In a world where headphone jacks are being eliminated, you might want to get some wireless headphones. However, a reliable pair of wireless buds shouldn't cost you $159. The Syllable D900 Mini Bluetooth Earphones offer punchy bass and clean highs for well under $50. They're lightweight, comfortable, and deliver just the right amount of noise isolation. You can even recharge them from the include storage case. 
Price: $29.99 in Amazon

Jackery Bolt
If you’re looking for a device that will keep your smartphone charged while you’re on the go, check out the Jackery Bolt. The device is a mobile charger with a 6,000 mAh battery inside. This portable charger can fully charge an iPhone up to three times before it needs more juice. The Jackery Bolt is also quite portable, allowing you to stick it in your bag and not even know it’s there.
Price: $28.99 in Amazon
Tile Mate
Think of Tile Mate as a handy way to help you keep track of important stuff. The gadget is designed to loop onto your keychain or attach to, well, just about anything else you own. Once attached, the tracker sends location data to an app on your phone. If you don’t know where you put your keys, you can send the Tile Mate command to ring you so that you can find it under your clothes pile.
Price: $24.99 in Amazon

Netgear Wi-Fi Range Extender
Sometimes, getting your wireless signal to stretch to every part of your house just isn’t possible. And that’s where the Netgear Wi-Fi Range Extender comes in. The $30 device plugs into a wall outlet and connects to your wireless network. As long as it’s strategically placed in your home so it can catch a good signal from your router, it’ll beam a better signal around the house. The Netgear extender works with 802.11ac, as well as b/g/n-compatible devices and is a must-have for anyone who needs more range.
Price: $29.99 in Amazon
Zus Smart Car Charger with Car Finder App
The Nonda Zus Smart Car Charger is a small and handy portable charger that plugs directly into your lighter port and comes with two USB ports to charge your iPhone, iPad, Galaxy S, or other device. It’s especially handy when you’re driving in the car with someone else and you both need to recharge your handsets. In addition, the Zus works with a free companion app that will tell you where your car is located.
Price: $29.99 in Amazon
Amazon Dash Button
It might look like a gimmick, but the Amazon Dash Button is actually a handy gadget to have around the house. The $5 button lets you buy refills of some of your most important household goods in just one click. For instance, you can place a Dash button for laundry detergent on your washing machine. If you notice your supply is running low, simply press the button, and a purchase is automatically made through your Amazon account and the e-retailer will ship out your new supply.
Although paying $5 for each household item can get expensive, Amazon offers you a $5 credit after your first press. So, you’re effectively getting your Dash button for free. There are dozens of Dash Buttons to choose from, covering everything from coffee and toothpaste to paper towels.
Price: $4.99 in Amazon
Amazon Echo Dot
The Amazon Echo Dot is one of the cheapest ways to get Amazon’s virtual personal assistant Alexa into any room. This small circular device connects to another speaker and listens to your voice commands. Once you issue a command, like saying you want to listen to a Spotify playlist, the Echo Dot starts playing your tracks through connected speakers. Echo Dot also gives you hands-free control over smart home devices, answers questions, lets you add stuff to your shopping cart and more. The device goes on sale from time to time, so make sure to check Amazon again around Labor Day when it could receive a discount.
Price: $44.99 in Amazon
Xbox Wireless Adapter
Here’s a convenient way to play PC games with your Xbox Wireless Controller instead of the mouse and keyboard. The Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows is a small USB dongle that plugs into your PC. Once connected, it allows you to use your Xbox Wireless Controller on your Windows laptop or desktop. The dongle allows up to eight wireless controllers to be connected at the same time, plus four chat headsets or two stereo headsets. 
Price: $24 in Amazon
Anker USB-C Hub
The Anker USB-C Hub is an ideal choice if you want to expand the number of USB ports that can work with your super-skinny laptop. On one end of the accessory is a USB-C cable that plugs directly into a compatible port. On the other, you’ll find four USB 3.0 ports, effectively expanding what you can plug into your USB-C-ready computer. According to Anker, its hub allows up to 5Gbps data speeds and can be used for everything from charging to connecting an external monitor.
Price: $29.99 in Amazon

Logitech Harmony 650
Logitech has long been one of the more popular universal remote makers, and the Logitech Harmony 650 is one of its cheapest. This clicker can replace up to eight remotes and comes with a color screen to give you additional controls in addition to the physical buttons. It's compatible with more than 225,000 devices.
Price: $44 in Amazon