GadgetGuy1981's stats
- Review count200
- Helpfulness votes391
- First reviewJune 23, 2016
- Last reviewSeptember 1, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.2
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- Answer count83
- Helpfulness votes240
- First answerJanuary 15, 2011
- Last answerOctober 15, 2021
- Featured answers0
- Best answers18
Remove dirt and spills with this Hoover Oxy tough stain remover. The fast-acting formula quickly loosens grime for easy removal and works on carpets, rugs, upholstery and car interiors for versatile use. This Hoover Oxy tough stain remover deodorizes carpets and breaks down stains, leaving the area smelling and looking clean.
Customer Rating
5
Excellent spot cleaner and stain pre-treater
on March 30, 2020
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
Used this Hoover Oxy cleaner for spot cleaning (pet cleanups, what can you do, right?) and for pre-treating stains before doing a larger carpet cleaning with my steamer. This stuff is awesome.
The only feedback I’d give is that it doesn’t have any visible foaming action when spot cleaning. The formula goes on clear and might be hard to see working right away, but when you agitate you can see the cleaning power go to work.
This worked for some pet stains from previously unsuccessful cleanups as well. Sprayed the areas spots, waited 10 minutes, then ran my floor cleaner over them and the carpets look and smell great!
Highly recommended product!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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This H&R Block Premium Tax software is designed for people who want to be in control of their tax preparation experience and feel empowered by completing their own return. It is a perfect solution for homeowners, investors, rental property owners, or self-employed who have complex tax situations and want to get a big refund.
Customer Rating
4
Reliable, Same old Block...
on March 3, 2020
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
H&R Block 2019 looks, feels and behaves just like H&R Block 18, 17, and 16 before it... Not much has changed in UI or features since the change from the TaxCut overhaul but the feature set hasn't changed much since then.
The functionality is all I really want in a tax solution. I do some side contracting, my wife is an independent contractor, and I have a day job that issues regular payroll and witholding so having the deduction questionnaires for investments, business expenses, etc are really helpful.
The interface is aging bit intuitive enough. It's a "just works" or "dont mess with it" philosophy that seems to drive our friends at Block. It's working so why change it?
Mobile Submission: True
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Take advantage of true keyboard typing and all-around tablet protection with this Logitech Slim Folio all-in-one iPad case. During travel, the sleek cover protects your screen from bumps and bruises. When you're ready to work, the case props your tablet at an ideal 58-degree viewing angle, and the keyboard automatically connects via Bluetooth LE wireless. Compatible with 7th, 8th, & 9th generation iPad, this Logitech Slim Folio all-in-one iPad case is a practical typing solution.
Customer Rating
5
An excellent alternative to Apple’s offering...
on January 1, 2020
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
Logitech has repeated this design for a few years. This is just the size adjustment of this product to this year’s 10.2” 7th generation iPad.
All in all, it’s the same as previous models, with textured vinyl exterior that’s great for gripping. Also featured is a pen loop that works with Apple Pencil AND the excellent Logitech Crayon device.
The keyboard itself is NOT backlit, which was my only disappointment, but this allows it to run for several years on a pair of coin cell CR2032 batteries. While I like this approach for its simplicity, I really think this product would stand out if they somehow backported the backlit keys of their other folios with direct USB C (or even Apple’s Lightning) charging to compensate.
The case protects the entire body and encloses over the screen for great protective properties and has two keyboard/screen angles to choose from that both magnetically clasp and activate the keyboard via Bluetooth. The magnetic connection/power setup is unique to these higher end Logi devices and works perfectly. It’s these little details that make this worth the extra investment vs. some cheaper Amazon alternatives.
Works exactly as promised and fills a void for iPad enthusiasts that haven’t quite gone pro. A real winner for Logitech - Apple’s unofficial official third party accessory supplier.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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This high-quality ink tank printer with an automatic document feeder plus fax delivers up to 2 years of ink in bottles included in the box.³ Get faster connections with dual-band Wi-Fi¹, and easy mobile printing with HP Smart app.²
Customer Rating
3
Good printer with questionable design choices
on December 29, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
The Smart Tank 651 is the flagship of HPs Smart Tank series.
As such it prints quickly and nicely, doing a great job with color reproduction, as well as image quality - Business prints and full-color photos look great.
As with other non-pro inkjets, black and white photos come out with color casting, as there's no "gray/photo black" ink available for better linear grayscale. I didn't expect any different from a basic 4-color CMYK ink system.
HP seems to have done a good job implementing the ink system, but even this has its flaws in simplicity - While EPSON uses keyed ink filler bottles that can only be used with the appropriate reservoir, HPs bottle design is universal - Once the first "new to refilling" customer puts Magenta ink in the Yellow or Cyan reservoir, this will be an issue for HP... Maybe some radical visual artists will appreciate the ability to experiment with this capability - But most of us just find this a risky move compared to competitor systems.
On to the biggest flaw of this system - Even for the flagship device - The 651 still has a REAR FEED PAPER TRAY!! It's infuriating and works as well as the value printers of the late 1990s did - I experienced paper jams and multi-feeds through the printer that I hadn't experienced in all sorts of printers in the last 20 years. While I appreciate the nostalgia, these aren't memories I want to re-live...
This and the general cheapness of the white/gray body styling make this a "so-so" pick - Its a shame that to get the value out of HP's continuous ink system, you have to step down to "value-grade" hardware, even at the top of the current line.
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Improve your audiovisual experience with this Aluratek Bluetooth TV streaming kit. The included transmitter connects easily to most televisions and lets you stream audio to the included earbuds from up to 100 feet away. This Aluratek Bluetooth TV streaming kit includes advanced earbuds that deliver crisp, high-fidelity audio and have onboard touch controls for pairing and skipping audio tracks.
Customer Rating
3
Good premise with poor quality materials
on December 29, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
This is a B-list brand making an interesting wireless product for home theater/entertainment scenarios.
The AluraTek Streaming media player turns any analog audio device into a Bluetooth streaming-capable device, and includes a set of "True Wireless" headphones that are OK at best...
The base station is made from a seemingly flimsy, glossy plastic with an industrial design akin to mid-2000s wireless routers and repeaters, but works well from a range point of view. I was able to pair the base easily with the included headphones, as well as several other Bluetooth headsets I own, which made the experience significantly better.
On that note, its the included headphones that are really bad. Shiny cheap plastics are just the start- My pair struggled to keep connected to each other and the charging case it just the wrong shape and size compared to competitors (that cost much more of course, so these are probably good for the value) but the real killer is that they have tinny audio quality and inconsistent stereo.
I'd recommend the base station for the price, but BYO headphones!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Type on your Chromebook or smartphone for effortless multitasking with this Logitech slim wireless keyboard. The built-in easy switch lets you pair and alternate multiple devices quickly, while the slim keys offer a comfortable, quiet typing experience. This Bluetooth-enabled Logitech slim wireless keyboard includes an auto-sleep feature that is activated when you're not typing to ensure long battery life.
Customer Rating
4
A welcome Chrome OS addition to the Logi lineup!
on November 17, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
The Logi K580 is an excellent bluetooth keyboard - I didn’t think the market was ready for the Chrome OS edition, but I’m happy to see it!
The device is almost exactly the same as the K470 keyboard for Windows - Except for a few key differences that make ALL the difference:
The K470 uses a proprietary dongle, whereas this new K580 supports UNIFYING (Finally!)
The K580 utilizes the gap in its industrial design to allow for a phone holder (Why the K470 just covers this up I really don’t understand!)
The K580 supports up to 3 device pairings (the K470 is a single-device/dongle-only proposition)... These 3 devices can be Bluetooth or UNIFYING.
The K580 Chrome edition supports specific button layout with function keys for Chrome OS, as well as dedicated Launcher and Google Assistant keys.
The K470 uses a proprietary dongle, whereas this new K580 supports UNIFYING (Finally!)
The K580 utilizes the gap in its industrial design to allow for a phone holder (Why the K470 just covers this up I really don’t understand!)
The K580 supports up to 3 device pairings (the K470 is a single-device/dongle-only proposition)... These 3 devices can be Bluetooth or UNIFYING.
The K580 Chrome edition supports specific button layout with function keys for Chrome OS, as well as dedicated Launcher and Google Assistant keys.
The keyboard has a good build quality but is a bit light. The key travel is good, comparable to a laptop keyboard in key feel - The keys aren’t as solid as some of the higher end Logi offerings, but perfectly usable, even when switching back and forth between Logitech’s higher-end (MX) offerings at other stations… To give you some perspective.
Some of the panels, particularly the phone holder/battery cover/Receiver dongle hider are made of a flimsier grey plastic. This thing seems to be the first thing I’ll break on the keyboard, but it’s secured well to the keyboard and is plenty sturdy, I just hate seeing flimsy plastic on battery/removable doors.
This is a great, welcome device supporting external keyboards for Chromebox, docked Chromebooks, and other VM use cases. Really excited about the Chrome OS Market getting the support it needs to be successful!
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Cut down on cooking time with this Bella Pro air fryer oven dehydrator. Top and bottom heating elements ensure exceptional cooking results, while the 10.5-quart capacity holds plenty of food. This Bella Pro air fryer oven dehydrator features a touch-screen control panel for quick operation, two nonstick racks for crisping and one pan for baking convenience.
Customer Rating
5
Solid and stylish oven/fryer/dehydrator/rotisserie
on November 17, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
This new Bella Pro Air fryer is actually 3 devices in one - It’s a toaster oven, an air fryer, and a dehydrator… I’ve tried it in all of these modes and it works great for all.
Uniquely, it’s designed as more of an oven-style unit with stylish stainless steel exterior and an intuitive touch panel control. The front of the unit has a flip-down door instead of a pull-out drawer, which, while it supports the rotisserie and multiple trays more easily, creates a problem that there is no “cool handle” with which to remove hot product, as the basket-based air fryers have the advantage there.
To that point, I love the separate trays for cooking in toaster oven and Air Fryer mode - The inherent problem with Air Fryers that utilize a “Basket” is that they only allow one layer of food to be cooked at once, negating the capacity usefulness of their basket unless you want cold spots in the food. These “drawer” style/traditional oven-style units allow for 2 “trays” or “shelves” that allow for double the cooking surface - This translates to more real capacity, and double-duty as a toaster oven of sorts.
The unit also has dehydrator modes - Beef jerky, dried fruits and vegetables, all able to be made in this system - Slower, longer heat and constant air circulation give it this capability.
The thing I was surprised by was that this 10qt unit came with the hardware to allow for rotisserie cooking! A small chicken or game hen could be fully prepared with moist, complete cooking and crisping cycle can be run to finish the piece. This can be applied to several recipes that are difficult without variable heat and air circulation cycles.
All in all this is a versatile cooker with lots of modes and plenty of family-friendly capacity.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Enhance your creativity potential with this Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020 and Premiere Elements 2020 bundle. The Adobe Sensei AI technology powers automated options to get a starting point for creative exploration, and the Quick Edit mode allows you to easily put clips, transitions, and effects into your movies. The Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020 and Premiere Elements 2020 bundle lets you quickly upload your creations to YouTube or Vimeo for versatile use.
Customer Rating
4
A solid update with inspiration from Sensei...
on November 17, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
The 2020 update of the Adobe Elements apps (still only Premier and Photoshop, though Illustrator and InDesign would be a boon to this bundle) are a solid, but boring update... The UI is largely unchanged - You know its something small in UI change when Adobe highlights the new "start page" as a feature - But the under-the-hood improvements are interesting, and work well in practice.
The Photoshop Elements still features the unified interface for photo organization and editing, and several step-down interface views/workspaces for different skill levels, but my complaint is that I haven't seen much improvement or modernization of this UI since the 2015 release - In 5 years of releases, UI style has changed, and the
"CC" apps that these are watered-down versions of have certainly changed a good deal, and now offer touch-friendly and cloud-connected options... I don't expect 100% feature parity in their consumer/home/value product, but I expect change at some point in 5 years.
"CC" apps that these are watered-down versions of have certainly changed a good deal, and now offer touch-friendly and cloud-connected options... I don't expect 100% feature parity in their consumer/home/value product, but I expect change at some point in 5 years.
The editing tools work great. I'm a Photoshop CC and Photoshop Elements user, and they each have their "detailed" or "quick" use cases, respectively, and I find that where apples meet apples with the tools, behavior is the same or similar between the consumer and pro products. Performance was also good.
Premiere Elements is much the same, but with less of a “Low|Medium|High” approach to interface. Its mostly a single-mode, where basic transitions, and edits/manipulation of source material can be done with ease - I actually prefer Premiere Elements approach to that of full-on Premiere Pro. Renders aren’t quite as fast, nor are the number of output options as vast, but for MOST camcorder and phone-video toting consumers/parents/grandparents, the job gets done here and library management is great for those simple use cases.
I enjoyed the entrant of the “Sensei” AI capabilities, such as background remove, sky rendering, and others brought over from the pro stack. These are new for 2020, and work extremely well and have a great walkthrough UI. Casual users looking for these pro effects, which are a bit more buried in the larger products are easy to find and use in the Elements series.
This is still the de-facto standard for consumer editing, but I fear advancements and encroachment from “app store” competitors that are modernizing the UI might affect the advanced side of the user base. Beginners will love the power and simplicity in the Adobe Elements creative apps.
The Photoshop Elements still features the unified interface for photo organization and editing, and several step-down interface views/workspaces for different skill levels, but my complaint is that I haven't seen much improvement or modernization of this UI since the 2015 release - In 5 years of releases, UI style has changed, and the
"CC" apps that these are watered-down versions of have certainly changed a good deal, and now offer touch-friendly and cloud-connected options... I don't expect 100% feature parity in their consumer/home/value product, but I expect change at some point in 5 years.
The Photoshop Elements still features the unified interface for photo organization and editing, and several step-down interface views/workspaces for different skill levels, but my complaint is that I haven't seen much improvement or modernization of this UI since the 2015 release - In 5 years of releases, UI style has changed, and the
"CC" apps that these are watered-down versions of have certainly changed a good deal, and now offer touch-friendly and cloud-connected options... I don't expect 100% feature parity in their consumer/home/value product, but I expect change at some point in 5 years.
The editing tools work great. I'm a Photoshop CC and Photoshop Elements user, and they each have their "detailed" or "quick" use cases, respectively,
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Set up a gaming station with this LG 24-inch Full HD monitor. AMD Radeon FreeSync technology eliminates screen tearing and stuttering, letting you play AAA titles smoothly, while the IPS display with a wide viewing angle delivers bright, vivid visuals from almost any direction. This LG 24-inch Full HD monitor has an antiglare coating for minimizing reflections.
Customer Rating
4
Reliable, high-value screen with traditional build
on October 27, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
I'll start by saying that this LG monitor is an incredible value.
That value is fully realized if you haven't shopped around for higher-priced monitors so that the more traditional build style of this monitor doesn't disappoint.
The monitor boasts a 1080p resolution, which is adequate for its size, and is an IPS display - Leveraging "In Plane Switching" to deliver wider viewing angles and better contrast ratios (stronger black and brighter white separation) than their older TN panel cousins, more common to this price range...
In addition to this higher tech display, we get a very well built panel, with large heavy plastic bezels around the screen. This is a more traditional design, as costlier modern monitors are going to a smaller edge for a more modern look, but this sometimes leads to issues with "backlight leak" - Let me be clear - This monitor had no backlight leak on my model - At this price range, that is almost unheard of - I have to think that the bigger bezels, leading to more room to properly seal the screen edges, contributed to this. This monitor looks professional and gives excellent even backlighting that lets you use it in professional settings without embarrassing consumer-grade issues like this. Bravo LG!
The monitor's general construction is pretty light, and both DisplayPort and HDMI 1.2 connections are offered, which is great for all of those mixed connectivity situations we find ourselves in - This monitor connected easily to both my Dell docking station (DisplayPort) and my XBOX One S (HDMI) to create a great switchable gaming and work desktop setup.
All in all if you're looking for a good high quality value display - You've found it. If you want a gaming monitor or a fashion piece for the executive office, its time to creak the wallet a bit further for a higher-spec model.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+1point
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The slim profile and minimalist design transform your keyboard and mouse into a visual statement that elevates your desk setup. A slim profile and compact design make typing and mousing a pleasure. Low-profile keys give you that laptop-like typing experience you know and love. Whisper-quiet keys and a 90% noise-reduced mouse let you power through in near-silence. Long battery life and an easy plug-and-play 2.4GHz USB receiver ensure a reliable, hassle-free experience.
Customer Rating
3
Nice wireless set - Getting what's paid for...
on October 27, 2019
Posted by: GadgetGuy1981
from Lebanon, OH
This is a nice, simple wireless pair from Logitech, who is really covering the whole range of products these day - This Mouse/Keyboard combo gets the job done well and consistently, but there are a few things that keep it from competing with more premium sets:
- Key feel and travel - This is a "chiclet-style" keyboard, as are most basic sets these days, but the key travel and feel are akin to a very cheap laptop keyboard, with lots of key wobble and unsteady center "capture" of keys - Just makes it hard to type fast and ensure that all keys are registered - With slower typists or typing use cases this probably wont be an issue.
- The build quality of they mouse seems solid enough but a bit more weight and "heft" would have helped it feel more premium - Tracking was good and the magnetic top hatch for battery changes and cleaning will bode well for maintenance access for the tiny mouse - If this thing were bluetooth (I believe Logi makes a variant that is) it would make an EXCELLENT travel mouse! As a desk mouse its OK for the dorm room or kid's/parents PC - Not for enthusiasts or people that care about ergonomics.
- The keyboard is very light and is composed of solid plastic save for the top of the keyboard where the batteries are stored - Under a VERY flimsy gray plastic door that spans the width of the keyboard there is also stowage for the USB dongle and an unusual empty space that the door fills in when inserted - I think on other Logitech models there is a Smartphone slot there - Why was it omitted on this model? Why just fill it in with a plastic insert? Strange design choice if re-using form factors and chassis across products.
- My last observation is simply one of value vs. premium as well - If this mouse and keyboard set supported UNIFYING- Logitech's programmable/pairable USB receiver tech, I'd be giving it 4 stars regardless of the issues above - Instead it comes with a pre-programmed USB adapter that can't be paired to other Logitech devices nor can either of these devices be added to a UNIFYING receiver - Now I know UNIFYING is typically reserved for the higher-end Logi devices, like the MX series and this is priced WAY below these, but this would have skyrocketed the usefulness of both components - Being able to separate them and pair the keyboard with a nicer MX or Triathlon mouse while using the mouse with another receiver for travel use would have been perfect for me.
Maybe these affordable sets just aren't for me - But I'd recommend this to a friend with a college-bound kid, a Kid's room AIO PC, or older parent just looking for the basics.
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Turn your tablet into a laptop with this Logitech Smart Connect keyboard for iPad Pro. Skip the Bluetooth pairing, and simply set your iPad Pro in typing position to set up instant pairing with the keyboard. Backlit for easy viewing, this Logitech Smart Connect keyboard offers a full 9-inch QWERTY setup, so you can work or correspond wherever you are.
Can the keyboard be removed from the case and does logi make a replacement case. My case cracked and needs to be replaced but keyboard is still in good working order
They are only sold as a single unit. I believe if the case breaks then the entire unit needs to be replaced. Its NOT a modular or user-serviceable item.
7 years, 3 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Create a reliable internet connection throughout your home with this Google Wi-Fi system. The convenient package of three connectivity points effortlessly covers even large homes up to 4,500 square feet. This Google Wi-Fi system eliminates uneven bandwidth usage among multiple devices, including cellphones and tablets, for an unimpeded connection that doesn't lag behind.
Have Netgear N900 modem-router-wifi device. What do I have to do to connect Google Wifi network? Will Genie still provide a network map?
Disable WiFi on the Netgear. Genie will still show a map of devices including the mesh APs, but will not necessarily show them by node. The Google App however will.
7 years, 9 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Create a reliable internet connection throughout your home with this Google Wi-Fi system. The convenient package of three connectivity points effortlessly covers even large homes up to 4,500 square feet. This Google Wi-Fi system eliminates uneven bandwidth usage among multiple devices, including cellphones and tablets, for an unimpeded connection that doesn't lag behind.
I have my own "Router" firewall device that I don't want to change. Can I use the Google Wifi as simply as a smart Wifi grid behind my security device?
Yes! Simply use your router without WiFi turned on and make sure that a single Ethernet connection passes through the router on its way to the Google setup as the only connection to any wireless hotspots.
You may want to put the whole system in Bridge mode when doing it this way but in doing so you'll lose priority device mode and some of the parental controls.
You may want to put the whole system in Bridge mode when doing it this way but in doing so you'll lose priority device mode and some of the parental controls.
7 years, 9 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Create a reliable internet connection throughout your home with this Google Wi-Fi system. The convenient package of three connectivity points effortlessly covers even large homes up to 4,500 square feet. This Google Wi-Fi system eliminates uneven bandwidth usage among multiple devices, including cellphones and tablets, for an unimpeded connection that doesn't lag behind.
Is this compatible with FiOS?
As long as the FiOS modem isn't also a wifi router, or you can disable wifi and just have the modem output via Ethernet you'll be good.
7 years, 9 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
What speakers are available for my Dell desktop Optiplex 380?
Your OptiPlex 380 has both 2.5mm audio jack and USB ports so just about any standard speaker set would work and even some advanced USB speakers would if you have a free USB port.
To see if your computer can support 2.1 or 5.1 audio natively, check to see if you have blue, green, and tan audio jacks in the back. If you do, you've got enough ports to install 5.1 surround. If only 1 audio out is back there (usually green or black colored) then you'll want to get a 2-speaker or 2.1 (two speaker and integrated wired subwoofer) system.
My advice for a simple desk setup would be to get something like these Logitech sets and just run the two speakers unless you demand floor-shaking bass.
To see if your computer can support 2.1 or 5.1 audio natively, check to see if you have blue, green, and tan audio jacks in the back. If you do, you've got enough ports to install 5.1 surround. If only 1 audio out is back there (usually green or black colored) then you'll want to get a 2-speaker or 2.1 (two speaker and integrated wired subwoofer) system.
My advice for a simple desk setup would be to get something like these Logitech sets and just run the two speakers unless you demand floor-shaking bass.
8 years, 3 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Subwoofer? Compatible Speakers
I have an older subwoofer I had with a previous computer. The speakers I have on my new one don't have a place to plug the subwoofer in. What kind of speakers should I get to be able to use this?
Only a set designed for a "2.1" or higher channels will support your sub. Most 2.1/5.1/7.1 systems will come with their own, newer subwoofer.
8 years, 3 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Connect with family and friends on this Dell Inspiron laptop computer, and clearly connect with the wide 13.3-inch screen and integrated webcam. Touchscreen capabilities provide the function of a tablet, while a full backlit keyboard lets you type all day and night. This Dell Inspiron laptop features Windows 10 Home for easy loading and running of software and apps.
Does something similar come in 15.6? Why do no Dell's have DVD/CD drives? What are my options if I need it?
There is a similar "flip hinged" 15" model available (I believe it's called the Inspiron 15 7000 Series 2-in-1, but I'm unsure of the specific model/SKU).
Most PCs are forgoing optical/CD/DVD drives in contemporary years as the demand for these drives has reduced greatly. While many desktop PCs (who have also seen a demand decline) still include them, removing them from laptops was a key element in getting these devices to be thinner/lighter, longer lasting on a single charge, etc. If you think about it, when is the last time you burned a CD or DVD and transferred files that way. With today's cloud storage and send services and with the low cost of thumb drives, home made DVDs/CDs quickly obsoleted.
As far as commercial discs, music has for a long time been more about streaming and online purchases from iTunes/Google Play/Spotify/Pandora/etc... Movies have largely gone the same way with Google Play/iTunes Movies/Netflix/Hulu.
I'm not saying that we don't all have discs we need to play/copy/install here and there, but for the most part, they aren't a primary medium anymore so the trade off for space and battery capacity drove them out of mobile devices.
You might be saying: "I don't care where the lemmings are going! I want my MTV, DVD and CD! I'm still angry about losing the tape deck in my new car!" For you my friend, I recommend one of the offered external USB DVD/Blu-Ray drives available at BestBuy which would allow you access to your optical collection without having to keep a drive attached for the 90% of the times you don't need one.
Most PCs are forgoing optical/CD/DVD drives in contemporary years as the demand for these drives has reduced greatly. While many desktop PCs (who have also seen a demand decline) still include them, removing them from laptops was a key element in getting these devices to be thinner/lighter, longer lasting on a single charge, etc. If you think about it, when is the last time you burned a CD or DVD and transferred files that way. With today's cloud storage and send services and with the low cost of thumb drives, home made DVDs/CDs quickly obsoleted.
As far as commercial discs, music has for a long time been more about streaming and online purchases from iTunes/Google Play/Spotify/Pandora/etc... Movies have largely gone the same way with Google Play/iTunes Movies/Netflix/Hulu.
I'm not saying that we don't all have discs we need to play/copy/install here and there, but for the most part, they aren't a primary medium anymore so the trade off for space and battery capacity drove them out of mobile devices.
You might be saying: "I don't care where the lemmings are going! I want my MTV, DVD and CD! I'm still angry about losing the tape deck in my new car!" For you my friend, I recommend one of the offered external USB DVD/Blu-Ray drives available at BestBuy which would allow you access to your optical collection without having to keep a drive attached for the 90% of the times you don't need one.
8 years, 3 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Acer Chromebook: Stay connected when on the go with this 14-inch Acer Chromebook. Dual-band MIMO technology provides ultrafast wireless speeds ideal for streaming or downloading, and an HDR webcam lets you video chat effortlessly. This Acer Chromebook has an antiglare screen and Full HD resolution for optimal viewing, and its 12-hour battery life increases productivity.
Can you download Microsoft office onto this? I want to use this for school so I need to be able to use word and PowerPoint.
You cannot install typical Microsoft Office apps on this device, as it runs ChromeOS. You can however edit Word, Excel and PowerPoint files using the included Google Apps (Docs,Sheets,Slides) that are FREE apps on the Chrome Web Store and are compatible with most/all files from Office proper...
Also, Microsoft makes web-based versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint that are also in the Chrome Web Store and these would better support existing files but these have some limits to their functionality, and I believe full usage requires an active Office365 account/subscription.
I hope this helps! Sorry it's not a yes/no answer. YOU HAVE OPTIONS!
Also, Microsoft makes web-based versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint that are also in the Chrome Web Store and these would better support existing files but these have some limits to their functionality, and I believe full usage requires an active Office365 account/subscription.
I hope this helps! Sorry it's not a yes/no answer. YOU HAVE OPTIONS!
8 years, 3 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
I need advice on what camera to buy her
My wife is a very fine artist I would like to buy a digital camera for her she does most of her paintingon location. She says she needs a digital camera with a zoom lens plus one that would take portraits and the best quality pictures for her work ,she speaks of a Digital SLR with at least
a 12.o pixel ? what do you recommend I buy her. I have a limited budget of between $ 750.00
and a $1000.00 dollars and I need some professional advice.
Thank you
Wm Bertsche
.
a 12.o pixel ? what do you recommend I buy her. I have a limited budget of between $ 750.00
and a $1000.00 dollars and I need some professional advice.
Thank you
Wm Bertsche
.
I have photographed many paintings for customers that needed a digital gallery with my Sony Alpha A33 DSLR/SLT.
14.2 megapixels, great zoom lens options, and noise reduction and light sensitivity settings that allow for accurate color capture in gallery light settings.
You're looking at 799-999 for a decent package with at least one zoom lens, but I would recommend the 18-55 kit lens with the body, and the additional 55-200 lens that Best Buy carries for longer zoom. Also, for portraits, I recommend a "brighter aperture" lens, such as the SAL50F18 50mm F1.8 portrait lens, which gives fantastic low-light performance at low ISOs, for maximum detail and clarity.
For the body and all three lenses, you're likely looking at 900-1100... Shop around, but Best Buy carries all of it and their photo guys do great bundles with warranties.
14.2 megapixels, great zoom lens options, and noise reduction and light sensitivity settings that allow for accurate color capture in gallery light settings.
You're looking at 799-999 for a decent package with at least one zoom lens, but I would recommend the 18-55 kit lens with the body, and the additional 55-200 lens that Best Buy carries for longer zoom. Also, for portraits, I recommend a "brighter aperture" lens, such as the SAL50F18 50mm F1.8 portrait lens, which gives fantastic low-light performance at low ISOs, for maximum detail and clarity.
For the body and all three lenses, you're likely looking at 900-1100... Shop around, but Best Buy carries all of it and their photo guys do great bundles with warranties.
13 years, 8 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Cincinnati, OH
Can a 35mm film camera lens be used on a digital SLR camera
I have a Cannon EOS Rebel and would like to purchase an SLR camera. If the lenses I have for the EOS Rebel will work on a SLR I would like to purchase that camera
The Canon EOS Digital Rebels will use the EOS lenses, with few exceptions, if i recall.
The difference is, that the EOS Digital Rebel's like the XS, or XSi, have smaller APS-sized sensors, vs. the focal design of the 35MM film counterparts.
This will mean a different focal range for the digital camera using the lens. It may also mean varying aperture performance, considering that less exposed area is resulting in an exposure on the sensor, than what was being exposed to the film, and the depth dimension of the digital camera will be different than it's film predecessor.
It may just take some experimentation to determine which lenses work best for digital. Its best to get Digital EOS lenses for work with Digital cameras, but many pro photographers interchange lenses to this day between their 35mm film and digital cameras. Your mileage may vary.
The difference is, that the EOS Digital Rebel's like the XS, or XSi, have smaller APS-sized sensors, vs. the focal design of the 35MM film counterparts.
This will mean a different focal range for the digital camera using the lens. It may also mean varying aperture performance, considering that less exposed area is resulting in an exposure on the sensor, than what was being exposed to the film, and the depth dimension of the digital camera will be different than it's film predecessor.
It may just take some experimentation to determine which lenses work best for digital. Its best to get Digital EOS lenses for work with Digital cameras, but many pro photographers interchange lenses to this day between their 35mm film and digital cameras. Your mileage may vary.
13 years, 8 months ago
by
GadgetGuy1981
Cincinnati, OH