3Tcubed's stats
- Review count168
- Helpfulness votes1,527
- First reviewJanuary 3, 2014
- Last reviewMay 14, 2024
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.3
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- Answer count72
- Helpfulness votes45
- First answerJanuary 10, 2015
- Last answerJanuary 12, 2022
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- Best answers11
Make your home an internet haven with this versatile Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system. Three identical tri-band dual-stream AC2200 routers, each equipped with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor, deliver lightning-fast internet. Equipped with Bluetooth 4.0/LE, this Linksys Velop wireless Wi-Fi system is simple to set up and pairs easily with computers, tablets and smart devices.
Customer Rating
3
Very promising
on January 29, 2017
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
First I run a home based technical business. I've got a 150mb internet link from Cox. I had been using the Nighthawk X6 R8000, a most excellent router. I was hoping the linksys Velop would improve my household coverage and speed, as well as offer the same features I need/use on my existing router.
I started by downloading the iOS Velop app, to do the installation; This and the complementary Android app are the only mechanisms available to set up the Velop Network (no web interface available). Seemed simple enough, I consider myself to be somewhat of a networking expert., I was sure their app would guide me through the process easily. Well I got the first node to talk to the app, to see my router and then promptly hang over and over when doing the "magic" network setup..... I called a help line and eventually talked a Velop networking expert.. I explained my situation and he suggested I tell my phone to "forget" the connections to to all of my existing home network connections (6, but I won't get in to why that is). Once this was done I was able to get first Velop node, connected to my cable modem, and to get it's wi-fi network up and operational (yea). The Velop tech help me get the other two nodes set up (each 60+ feet from the primary node and about that far from each other. Note, each Velop node has 2 Ethernet connections, which can allow the nodes to either communicate to each other via wi-fi meshing or via wired ethernet (obviously potentially faster). As I have wired ethernet connectivity through most of my house this sounded like a great Idea. I then set up the third node, where I ran across a bit of an issue, where I wanted to install it I had a powers strip with one available outlet, but the power brick on the Velop nodes are like 2.25"x2.25", it would not fit, no Idea why the "Velop wall wart" is so large, it's quite light and only supplies 2A output. I'm pointing this out as this is a potential stumbling block to any installer.
I then told the Velop Tech that I wanted to set the network devices to live below #.#.#.100 on my network, as I had all wired hardware there and all DNS assigned addresses above .100; a long pause; this might not currently be possible, I was told. He help me change the IP address of the primary node, so that it would not conflict with my Nighthawk router; this was done through a currently, non-documented web interface to the primary node. when we tried to do the same to the secondary nodes the page that made this possible on the primary node did not exist to the secondary nodes. Oh well this was not a show stopper, after configuring the DNS address range I could work around this. I then asked about port forwarding, again on a non-documented web interface, I found what was needed, but my current set up required I forward about 32 ports (VNC & RDP access for my business); I was told I could only forward 16 ports (currently) - this was a show stopper, without creating new security concerns.
Well at that point I decided to test the wi-fi throughput (btw: currently all Velop nodes/networks are required to used the same SSID; (it looks like this could be changed in the future from the hidden web interface - but it was recommended I not do so, at it was not "supported" (the whole web interface is not supported). Well on my Nighthawk network I ran speedtest on it's AC network and achieved 92mbps, on the Velop network from the same positions (distance) i achieved 95mbps. I tried the test more than once and it was consistently faster when I was closest to the primary node; when I moved to the hardwired second node, my results were the same 95mbps, when I moved to the third node, which could only communicate to the primary node via wi-fi, at a distance of 60'ish feet my speed dropped to about 20mbps, yet I showed a 5 bar connections to that node (not all that surprising).
I asked the tech if there were any tools to determine the throughput from node to node or signal strength from node to node -NO not currently. I found this to be most dissapointing, as I thought the Velop network was supposed to help you choose the best locations for the nodes within your home...well not yet, but it's apparently planned.
Well, the speeds achieved are as fast as I'd expect for AC networking today. The tools to set the system up are not yet complete, and the capabilities, compared to a high end router, are not yet fulfilled, and lacking in several areas. As this is nearly a $500 system, I think Linksys needs to offer all of the capabilities that they offer (and expose) on their high end routers (like their WRT3200ACM which is comparable to my Nighthawk). Maybe Linksys can find a happy medium between their app based setup and what an expert needs, and the tools to get the system optimized, but until they do the Velop network, in my opinion is not ready.
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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Whip up healthy drinks with the Nutri Ninja BlendMax blender. Its Total Crushing blade technology and 1600W of power grind vegetables and frozen fruits, letting you create luscious smoothies, purees and fresh juices. The Nutri Ninja BlendMax blender comes with two interchangeable pitchers, letting you mix up to 88 oz. of ingredients or extract nutritious vitamins.
Customer Rating
4
Very Powerful, but LOUD
on December 25, 2016
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
My first step after unpacking was to fill the blender to the max liquid line and give it a spin to make sure it was "clean". After selecting the Frozen Drink button, the motor came to life and really caught my attention. It 's quite loud, but you could clearly see a real vortex in the spinning water, with the slight problem that it was leaking from the well sealed top (which I rechecked to make sure it was well closed - it was). I tried again, and still it leaked; I removed about 8oz of water and it no loner leaked - my advise, consider it a 80oz pitcher not a 88oz.
I then proceeded to make ice cream smooth with mint chocolate chip ice cream, a little half and half and a few ice cubes. I selected the AutoIQ function for smoothy and it went to work for about 1:10, pulsing one and off, loudly. The bottom of the unit has suctions cups on it so it stayed firmly in place. The smoothy emerged, with no real sign of chocolate chip, just dots the size of vanilla bean seeds. Just what I'd hoped for - a job well done by the Ninja.
Clean-up was easy just half fill the blender with water, turn it on, for a few seconds and the blender looked clean, carefully remove the very sharp blades, and dry, which is pretty easy as it's easy to reach in side the well sized blender.
I later made an adult beverage in the included 16oz "bullet" cup and it returns a wonderful frozen concoction, with the ice fairly evenly crushed. A few lumps remained, that a few extra pulses remedied. Except for the loudness a good experience.
They say the blender is top shelf dishwasher safe, but getting it upright on the top shelf, was not going to happen in my dish washer. The duo package includes 3 ninja cups (1*18oz & 2*24oz) thes are very sturdy solid cups.
I would have given the blender 5 stars if it were not for the fill max leak, and the loudness of the unit. This is a very powerful blender that can certainly crush much of it's competition (pun intended); is seems very well build, but it is noisy, but I would recommend it as would expect it to liquify just about anything.
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Harness the productivity of the Intel Core m3 processor with this Microsoft Surface Pro 4. Its 12.3-inch touch screen and 2736 x 1824 resolution are ideal for streaming your favorite movies and shows. This Microsoft Surface Pro 4 has 128GB of internal storage and a microSD slot for your music, photos and videos.
Customer Rating
5
Great Tablet - Beautiful Screen
on November 12, 2016
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
I bought this on the pre-BF sale, saved $400. Get the pen when you make the purchase and save another $20 on the pen (which comes with 5 different tips, each a different "pencil softness" - see image). I have 1st generation Microsoft Surface pro (i5 G3); I was concerned about m3 processor, but it (with improved GPU) is much better than the original and the battery life is about 4x better (original ~2.5h, this ~10h). The keyboard is just ok, it is backlit, and a little wider key spacing than previous; the "grey felt" look is nice, but key travel still limited. The latest pen has greatly improved touch sensitivity it is "marvolous"... using pen as mouse on screen is sensational. BTW: I can't believe new MacBooks don't have a touch screen - the screen viewing angle on the is tablet are exceptional combined with the new pen - a new computing experience. m3 processor is plenty powerful for most activities; Using Chrome Browser, I could easily open 6-8 tabs without noticing any sluggishness, at the same time run iTunes in the background. All told it's a great combination, and it's 100% quiet - NO FAN - and little noticible heat. behind the open kickstand you can feel warmth, but nothing like computers with older generation i3,i5 & i7 CPUs. If your lucky enought to get one fro this price, try the new Microsoft "inking" app, which combined with MS-Note provive a powerful on-screen writing combination.
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
I would recommend this to a friend!
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83of 90voted this as helpful.
Simplify your everyday life with the Google Home, a voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant. Use voice commands to enjoy music, get answers from Google and manage everyday tasks. Google Home is compatible with Android and iOS operating systems, and can control compatible smart devices such as Chromecast or Nest."
Customer Rating
2
A Promising Start
on November 7, 2016
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
Sorry, I'm not sure how to help with that.
The 9 words Google Home is most likely to respond with; but that being said if you're familiar with casting to a Chromecast (video or audio) device extending Google Home to your Television or Audio System (chromecase equipped) is quite nice. BUT if want to change someting you MUST remember to tell Google Home to out to that device (or group of devices) over and over. If there's a way to tell it what the default output should be I've not found a way to do that yet, and that is what is (Currently) frustrating about Google Home, what instruction "Should" it currently understand. The instructions list about 40 phrases to get you started, but it's really not clear you need to say, and when it does not understand you get the above, and sometimes it says it's still learning. I have a number of home automation products (plugs and switched for Belkin's Wemo), some Chamberlin stuff in my garage, none of what interface with Amazon Home at this point, I'm sure they will expand what they can work with over time; so if you don't have Nest, Philips Hue Bulbs or a Samsung Smarthings hub, little home automation can be done.
The interface to Chromecast works quite nicely, for multi-room audio there are real possibilities. The quality of sound from the 6" x 5" device is darn good for it's size, I personally wish you could directly connect powered speakers, but chromecast audio solves the problem, and offers some non-wired flexibility.
I did find that if you say "OK Google, Spin" it will perform some sort of random sound function (singing, or other) no idea how many random functions there are.
I imagine that Google Home will continue to improve unless Google does not keep with it; it certainly has possibilities, but today Amazon's Echo can interface with more automation devices/systems, and it's easier to discover what Echo expects to listen for. You can go to: g.co/home/explore to get more "interface" instructions, from there you might be able to determine if Google Home will be useful to you, and it could be improving, today it's a promising (somewhat expensive toy) that has potential.
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
I would recommend this to a friend!
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3of 5voted this as helpful.
iPad® mini 2 has a stunning 7.9-inch Retina display with over 3.1 million pixels. It also comes with the A7 chip with 64-bit architecture, ultrafast wireless, iSight and FaceTime HD cameras, powerful apps, and up to 10 hours of battery life.1 Yet it still fits easily in one hand.
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
I compared this last generation iPad mini to to the newer version, and I could not justify the price difference fro the new version. Except for the fingerprint security (which may be a bigger deal on a Phone vs iPad) I could not justify the price difference (especially when this versions was $100 off list just before Christmas). Using with Logitech ultra thin case and BT keyboard - great combination.
My Best Buy number: 001001624
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Toshiba Chromebook 2 CB35-B3340 Laptop: This ultrathin, portable Chromebook is great for anyone on the go. Easily connect to Wi-Fi hotspots with the built-in high-speed wireless LAN.Learn more about Chromebooks ›
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
I've had the unit for about a month now and, in my opinion, here are the hits and misses.
#1 Screen is Excellent; I also have ASUS, ACER & HP Chromebooks, this is by far the best.
#2 Keyboard is very Good; wish it was backlit, but feel is very good as Sony Vios
#3 Trackpad is excellent
#4 Networking excellent using with Netgear Night Hawk x6; AC is VERY fast, faster than ASUS, ACER & HP Chromebooks
#5 Memory, 4GB can run 10+ tabs w/o issues
#6 1TB Space on gDrive (for 2 years) - great deal
#7 Battery life; getting 8-10h depending on usage - great for size
Misses: No Touch Screen, but you knew that - maybe next generation
SSD Size, wish it was larger; tested with 64, 128 & 256GB SDXC cards - no problems except getting software to store files on SD card
Case - Somewhat hard to open, cover fits very snugly/tight, somewhat hard to pry open; top and bottom looks same with exactly fit all the way around
#1 Screen is Excellent; I also have ASUS, ACER & HP Chromebooks, this is by far the best.
#2 Keyboard is very Good; wish it was backlit, but feel is very good as Sony Vios
#3 Trackpad is excellent
#4 Networking excellent using with Netgear Night Hawk x6; AC is VERY fast, faster than ASUS, ACER & HP Chromebooks
#5 Memory, 4GB can run 10+ tabs w/o issues
#6 1TB Space on gDrive (for 2 years) - great deal
#7 Battery life; getting 8-10h depending on usage - great for size
Misses: No Touch Screen, but you knew that - maybe next generation
SSD Size, wish it was larger; tested with 64, 128 & 256GB SDXC cards - no problems except getting software to store files on SD card
Case - Somewhat hard to open, cover fits very snugly/tight, somewhat hard to pry open; top and bottom looks same with exactly fit all the way around
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Managed. Safety. The security and manageability that you expect from Microsoft. BitLocker encrypts your hard drive's data, helping to keep your stuff safe. Install applications and connect with accessories and printers, just like you always have. Join a corporate domain for full access to your work network. Stellar. Performance. Enjoy fast, powerful performance and stunning visuals. The Intel processor was built using the latest technologies, including HD graphics, to deliver with impressive speed and responsiveness.
Customer Rating
3
Better than expected but...
on March 1, 2014
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
Verified Purchase:Yes
I knew that this came with Win 8.0, but given when I bought it I think MS should have updated all units with Win 8.1; it easily takes 3+ hrs to do the upgrade and then it eats another 5+GB of disk space....First DON'T consider the 64GB version, with 10+GB for Recovery/re-install and 22GB for the OS you' have less than 1/2 the space left; after upgrading to win 8.1 with more hidden partitions it's even worse. So to begin with, a 128GB system 128GB becomes 109Gb after the 3 hidden partitions are deducted with the Win 8.1 upgrade; then the OS on the 128GB version occupies 30+GB leaving 80GB available; doing some cleanup (which should not be required) can get another 5Gb back. Doing a clean install (which can't be done without win 8.1 install disks which normal folks can't get) would have freed up nearly 10GB of additional space.... shame on MS; SSD space is "precious" and your force to buy Win 8.0 and do the upgrade yourself even thought Win 8.1 has been out since Sep to Oct 2013...Done ranting
The pen interface works very nicely, too bad the learning curve is so difficult, the win 8.1 interface is just not intuitive, you have to "learn it" and wonder why so many things are so hard to get to. It does get easier with time, but then you deal with "classic" application which may or may not behave the same, still finding the best way to interface with the new and the classic interface is a challenge. And multi-touch remains mysterious as not all apps behave the same way, especially MS office apps where you'd expect consistency and little exists, I guess it's because office is still considered the classic desktop type of application. I do wich it was possible to upgrade or purchase this system with larger disk (256 or 512GB); I've added the largest SDHC card (64GB) but I still long for more disk space; I suspect MS want us us to use the cloud, but without 4G support, it's not always possible.
The 128GB Surface Pro is sufficient at what it offers, a fast processor and good Display, but is use of disk space, especially not knowing how many updates MS may do in the near the coming months severely limits the expected life of this product. I also miss not have a Ethernet adapter (or port expander) when I find wi-fi to slow to stream large files (read HD movies). I think this is another "miss" for the product (the single USB 3.0 port is very fast, but with only one port flexibility is limited without more hardware; I've heard rumors of a expensive docking station ($2??) but have not seen one yet, and at that price it's way to expensive.
If it included a docking station and keyboard (v2) for the normal list price it would be a great package fro the price; as it is look for big and bigger discounts. Look to see if MS starts shipping New surfaces products with the latest version of windows (8.1 as of today) that would improve the experience you have with this product.
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
What's great about it: Screen Quality
What's not so great: Comes with Win 8.0 which uses so much space
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Ease of Use
4
Features
2
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iPhone 5s features advanced technologies, including the Touch ID fingerprint sensor, A7 chip with 64-bit desktop-class architecture, iSight camera with True Tone flash and slo-mo video at 120 fps, and LTE wireless — all in a slim design in three metallic finishes.iPhone 5s comes with iOS 8, which delivers a simpler, faster, and more intuitive user experience with new Messages and Photos features, predictive typing for the QuickType keyboard, Family Sharing, the new Health app, iCloud Drive, and more.AT&T Next option available in store. Learn more ›
Customer Rating
4
Improvement over iPhone 4
on January 3, 2014
Posted by: 3Tcubed
from Phoenix.AZ
Age:55-64
Phone size:Compact
Verified Purchase:Yes
Having run iOS 7 on my old iPhone 4, the new iPhone 5S is a big improvement; iOS7 definitely pulls more CPU cycle than all previous iOS versions; that being said it is a better OS. Having used the new Sm'sung Note 3 for a while; I really miss the larger screen and micro SD card expandability (come to be std Apple policy it seems). Wish there was a 128GB version. iPhone 5s is smaller and lighter than my old iPhone 4 which is nice; but not big difference. New camera is a little brighter, but again wish it was better (note 3 was much better (13mp vs 8mp). IMHO Apple has some catching up to do in terms of hardware but OS and app store is still the best.
My Best Buy number: 0010016244
What's great about it: Better with iOS7
What's not so great: Small Screen
I would recommend this to a friend!
Picture Quality
5
Battery Life
5
Sound Quality
4
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The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ wireless keyboard with touchpad matches the quality and functionality of the Surface Pro 4,5,6, and 7 seamlessly. Designed to meet the standards set by Microsoft, the Brydge 12.3 Pro+ features a precision touchpad, adjustable viewing angles and 3-level backlit keys, bringing a laptop-like experience to your Surface Pro.
Is it running on windows 10? And What’s the speed how fast is it?
This is a Keyboard/Track pad only.
It is intended to be use with a MS Surface Pro (G4-G7); the Surface typically runs Windows 10, and there are multiple versions (processor/memory for the surface).
It is intended to be use with a MS Surface Pro (G4-G7); the Surface typically runs Windows 10, and there are multiple versions (processor/memory for the surface).
3 years, 4 months ago
by
3Tcubed
The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ wireless keyboard with touchpad matches the quality and functionality of the Surface Pro 4,5,6, and 7 seamlessly. Designed to meet the standards set by Microsoft, the Brydge 12.3 Pro+ features a precision touchpad, adjustable viewing angles and 3-level backlit keys, bringing a laptop-like experience to your Surface Pro.
Is this a laptop and keyboard
Keyboard/Trackpad only intended to be used with MS Surface Pro (G4-G7)
3 years, 4 months ago
by
3Tcubed
Make healthy smoothies and drinks with this SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender. A 1400W motor base ensures exceptional ice-crushing results, while the 800W heating element cuts down boiling time for faster preparation of soups and sauces. This SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender features preset Auto-iQ smart programs that take the guesswork out of operation and dishwasher-safe parts for effortless cleaning.
Is there a compatible single serve blending cup that I can use with this blender? I’m interested in a 20 or 24 ounces blending cup option.
It comes with 2 x 16oz personal containers (actually 32oz, but for blending you should only fill to 16oz when using
3 years, 6 months ago
by
3Tcubed
Make healthy smoothies and drinks with this SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender. A 1400W motor base ensures exceptional ice-crushing results, while the 800W heating element cuts down boiling time for faster preparation of soups and sauces. This SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender features preset Auto-iQ smart programs that take the guesswork out of operation and dishwasher-safe parts for effortless cleaning.
There's no Puree' option, so does this blender not have a way to blend a smoothie until it's basically almost as smooth as milk? That's pretty much going to be my deciding factor between this and the Instant Pot blender. Thanks.
It does have a Pulse mode that moves the mixture thought-out the container, fine for a puree
3 years, 6 months ago
by
3Tcubed
Make healthy smoothies and drinks with this SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender. A 1400W motor base ensures exceptional ice-crushing results, while the 800W heating element cuts down boiling time for faster preparation of soups and sauces. This SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender features preset Auto-iQ smart programs that take the guesswork out of operation and dishwasher-safe parts for effortless cleaning.
What is the height of appliance with glass jar and lid attached ?
Make healthy smoothies and drinks with this SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender. A 1400W motor base ensures exceptional ice-crushing results, while the 800W heating element cuts down boiling time for faster preparation of soups and sauces. This SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender features preset Auto-iQ smart programs that take the guesswork out of operation and dishwasher-safe parts for effortless cleaning.
How do I purée foods? It doesn’t have a purée button.
It has 2 modes, smooth and pulse, the pulse mode move the mixture throughout the container very effectively, would easily puree.
3 years, 6 months ago
by
3Tcubed
Make healthy smoothies and drinks with this SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender. A 1400W motor base ensures exceptional ice-crushing results, while the 800W heating element cuts down boiling time for faster preparation of soups and sauces. This SharkNinja Ninja Foodi blender features preset Auto-iQ smart programs that take the guesswork out of operation and dishwasher-safe parts for effortless cleaning.
Can I use another attachment with this blender like Nutri Ninja or the coffee and spice grinder ?
They offer a separate small jar (not included) which would be great for a spice grinder, you could probably use the included large polycarbonate container for grinding coffee with the pulse mode, it should work well.
3 years, 6 months ago
by
3Tcubed
Upgrade your daily cooking with this Instant Pot Duo Nova pressure cooker. The 8-quart capacity holds enough food for up to eight people, while the 14 one-touch smart programs simplify meal preparation. This Instant Pot Duo Nova pressure cooker includes a steam rack, soup spoon and measuring cup for convenience.
Does instruction manuals come with it and recipe book
Yes, but pretty limited. There is on online app with a lot of recipes (well organized, searchable) you'll find several for just about everything.
3 years, 7 months ago
by
3Tcubed
Upgrade your daily cooking with this Instant Pot Duo Nova pressure cooker. The 8-quart capacity holds enough food for up to eight people, while the 14 one-touch smart programs simplify meal preparation. This Instant Pot Duo Nova pressure cooker includes a steam rack, soup spoon and measuring cup for convenience.
What are in internal dimensions? All I can find are external.
Upgrade your daily cooking with this Instant Pot Duo Nova pressure cooker. The 8-quart capacity holds enough food for up to eight people, while the 14 one-touch smart programs simplify meal preparation. This Instant Pot Duo Nova pressure cooker includes a steam rack, soup spoon and measuring cup for convenience.