Mobile devices are close to replacing everyday computers

Posted By on November 26, 2012

Mobile smartphone and tablet devices are closing in on replacing at least our pcgalaxynote2portable notebook and laptop computers (story link), but according to early “Cyber Monday” sales numbers, laptop/notebook computers are the number one sellers. I’m personally not ready to eliminate the notebook or desktop computer, but mobile OS devices have improved dramatically and I can see we are not too far off. I use both the smartphone and iPad far more than expected and find myself reading and typing emails on them often. My mobile Apple devices aside, the new Samsung Galaxy Note II Android device (and other with multiple core processors phones and tablets in the works) are even more impressive than I thought … video below.

The most interesting thing you will learn this weekend

Posted By on November 24, 2012

horseshoecrabonthewallI’ve enjoyed beachcombing and ocean exploring all my life, but I never realized just how important the prehistoric looking horseshoe crab is to biomedical science and pharmaceutical research.

horseshoecrabonbeach

For 30 years I’ve had shells, sand terrariums and even a horseshoe crab shell hanging in my office but never knew all that much about them … just that they look as if they pre-dated about every other crab on the beach. If you have few minutes, check out the YouTube video below the break … you’ll be amazed.

underthehorseshoecrab

Post Thanksgiving reflection – thankfully no shopping

Posted By on November 23, 2012

diningfortday2012It is hard to believe that I didn’t take any family photos over Thanksgiving this year … except for one disturbing photo at the dinner table. No wonder I didn’t take any more? Smile

It does have me question the sanity of the family I belong too?

Let’s be thankful for our 392 years of FREEDOM

Posted By on November 22, 2012

turkeyWe’ve survived another bitter election and our country remains strong. Americans, and those who reside within our borders, are fortunate to live in the freest and most prosperous nation in the world. There isn’t another country which attracts mayflowerpilgrimssketchimmigrates the way the United States of America does (and will continue to do) and many of us selfishly forget how blessed we are to live in this nation.

I am thankful to have the privilege of being a U.S. citizen and waking up each morning without the fear of being ruled by a ruthless tyrant or under an authoritarianism government. I hope that all who live within these borders, regardless of their political philosophy, pause for a moment today and give thanks for the many blessing bestowed on this nation. As the early pilgrims stated in the Mayflower Compact, “In the name of God, Amen.”

Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Caught myself thinking like my father did back in the 1970s

Posted By on November 21, 2012

seth_alex2012 RichCharlieRobGreg1980

While surfing for family news and goings-on for Thanksgiving, I saw a photo on my son’s Facebook page with a couple of his high school friends. I recall that they recently visited with him at Miami University and remembered Taylor told me that they were still pursuing their music dream. Of course after seeing their photo (and remembering what they looked like in high school – link and photo below), I whispered to myself the expected “why do they look like that” fatherly comment … THEN, I began to think about my high school friends and decided that I didn’t have much room to talk. Hmm …

HomecomingMorningafter
Taylor and his friends back in October 2007

Photos: Our illusive Red-tailed Hawk and modified car parts

Posted By on November 21, 2012

OldCarParts_5566There was a large truck and trailer sitting in front of our house at the crack of dawn this morning and curiosity got the best of me so I went outside to investigate. Brenda mentioned that I might want to get the license plate number considering this is the Thanksgiving holiday week and neighbors might be away?

I was thinking ruts in the yard or damage to the light pole or mailbox (a problem we have with delivery trucks negotiating the tight turns) and remembered the FedEx situation a couple years ago. I’m still aggrevated that they never took care of the damage.  Not to worry though, as it was a delivery … furniture or car parts, well sort of both.

OldCarParts_5573 OldCarParts_5571

Since I had the camera with a long lens out, I “once again” tried to get a photo of our resident Red-tailed Hawk who stops daily. It is incredible how their eye sight and instincts has them in flight at even the hint of someone trying to get close. Even through the back window he either sees or senses that I’m trying to take his photo.

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Here’s a link and photo from a few years ago … LINK. If I’m going to take “bird” photos, I’ll need a better plan!

The Ram Mount for the iPad has a weak point

Posted By on November 20, 2012

brokenrammount121120My Ram Mount iPad car mount has a weak point and I am wondering if I’m alone or if this is a design problem? From what I can tell, the weak point is where the latch makes a 90-degree turn (see photo). Initially it was very tight to snap the roller-latch mechanism to hold the iPad in place, but it has recently become very week.

On closer inspection, there is a noticeable crack appearing and this has me thinking that it might be poor design? Hopefully it is only a defect in a batch of material or has something to do with the colder weather?

I’ve called Ram Mount’s customer service and they asked if I could send a photo for evaluation. 

I’ll update on how they stand behind their product.

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The above is a photo from a previous post earlier in the year.

Audi updates their upcoming TDI diesel offerings for next year

Posted By on November 20, 2012

audidesign

Although Honda Civic diesel I commented on will probably remain overseas for the next few years, Audi confirmed that additional diesel models will be added to their U.S. line-up next year (press announcement). 

audi2013a82014 Model Availability

  • A8 TDI Spring 2013
  • A7 TDI Fall 2013
  • A6 TDI Fall 2013
  • Q5 TDI Fall 2013

These new models, along with their current smaller Audi A3 2.0L TDI and larger 3.0L Q7 SUV diesel, will make for nearly a full line up available in diesel. The luxury A8 will come first in the spring, followed by the A7, midsize A6 and small Q5 SUV in diesel. This will bring the efficient and clean TDI diesel power to more vehicle choices and offer great range, engine longevity and top efficiency to American Interstate highways … something hybrids and electric vehicles find challenging.

This is great news for those of us looking for a new diesel power vehicle in the next year or so … and I personally can’t wait to check out the Q5 in diesel, even if I was holding out for the Audi allroad.

auditdilineup

Audi to introduce four new TDI® clean diesel models to the U.S. Market at the L.A. Auto Show

  • The Audi A8 TDI clean diesel achieves manufacturer estimated fuel efficiency of 24 city/ 36 highway
  • New 3.0 liter V6 TDI clean diesel models will include the Audi A8, A7, A6, Q5 and an updated Q7 TDI
  • Audi to use #FuelForThought at the LA Auto Show to create a social media experience at the display and online

Audi of America announces the arrival of the new TDI® clean diesel models for the Audi A8, A7, A6 and Q5 to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The addition of these four models marks the first time Audi will feature a full lineup of TDI clean diesel vehicles in the U.S. as they join the updated Q7 model. Each TDI vehicle delivers up to 30% better fuel economy and 30% lower carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline engines*, resulting in longer range and fewer trips to the fuel pump. By having more density than gasoline, diesel packs more energy content in the same amount of fuel, which helps maximize the miles per gallon when that energy is released during a more powerful combustion cycle.

 

The TDI clean diesel engine lineup adds to Audi’s list of advanced technologies that help enhance fuel efficiency, including Audi ultra® lightweight technology, such as the use of aluminum, and the AFS® frame technology.

“Owners of Audi TDI engines have helped save over 4 million gallons of gasoline, or the equivalent of more than 240,000 barrels of foreign oil, since the introduction of Audi TDI to the U.S. in 2009**,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. ” And, TDI technology delivers better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.”

In order to fuel the conversation surrounding the benefits of TDI technology in the U.S., Audi will use the hashtag, #FuelForThought and invite fans to join the conversation through a social experience at the display and online.

Audi A8 TDI
The flagship of the Audi brand, the A8 TDI, makes a powerful statement in achieving a manufacturer estimated fuel efficiency of 24 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway*. The A8 TDI clean diesel executive sedan embodies superior design and progressive advancements which sets new standards for luxury sedans in terms of uncompromising efficiency and performance. The new 2014 A8 sedans dramatically expand the flagship’s engine offerings by moving from two variants (4.2 liter V8 and W12) to five, including: the entry level A8 3.0T V6; the 420 horsepower A8 4.0T V8; the new Audi S8 4.0T V8; the A8 6.0 liter W12; and the new A8 3.0 TDI V6. The new 3.0 liter TDI clean diesel engine generates an astonishing 240 horsepower with 406 lb.-ft. of torque and seamlessly goes 0-60 in 6.4 seconds.

Audi A7 TDI

The Audi A7 TDI clean diesel is the pinnacle of design and is now more fuel efficient than ever. Without compromising design or performance, every detail of the A7 TDI delivers a striking visual statement. The A7 was the first car in the world to feature available factory-installed Wi-Fi (for up to 8 passenger devices) with Audi connect™ and MMI® navigation plus with 3D Google Earth™ maps. From the groundbreaking available MMI touch and its gracefully integrated display screen, to the state-of-the-art head-up display, the Audi A7 TDI is the perfect marriage of progressive design, efficiency and versatile space.

Audi A6 TDI
One of Audi’s most innovative and technologically advanced models to date, the A6 TDI performance sedan sacrifices virtually nothing in performance, comfort or design. As with the successful A6 TFSI® gas engines, the A6 TDI clean diesel engine can make up to 2,000 decisions per second. Available driver assistance systems include night vision assistant, head-up display and Audi pre sense plus that helps detect imminent collisions and initiates protective measures when needed. Other available intelligent features include head-up display and the MMI touch that recognizes handwriting, along with the available Audi connect – the first factory-installed wireless internet connection that enables Google Earth maps, Google Local Search, and a WiFi hotspot for up to eight passenger devices.

Audi Q5 TDI
The Audi Q5 has proven itself an absolute success as one of the best-selling models in the Audi lineup. For the 2014 model year, the Q5 will receive the new TDI engine which will allow for better fuel economy along with increased torque. The Audi Q5 TDI combines the driving appeal of a sedan with high versatility of its interior space and many practical solutions for recreation and everyday driving. Audi has further sharpened the profile of its performance SUV in its design, technological advancements, driver assistance systems and fuel efficiencies. The new TDI clean diesel engine marks the fourth engine variant for the Audi Q5 model lineup, adding to the current four-cylinder 2.0T, the 3.0T V6, and the Q5 hybrid.

Audi Q7 TDI

The Audi Q7 continues to establish the standard in progressive design, sophisticated technology and fuel efficiency in premium sport utility vehicles. The benefits of TDI clean diesel technology are further enhanced through the revised V6 TDI engine that offers a 10 percent efficiency improvement compared to gasoline engines. The revised TDI clean diesel engine has an increased output of 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque that helps improve performance and offers impressive fuel economy with an EPA estimated 19 city/ 28 highway miles per gallon*. The incredibly efficient TDI clean diesel engine enables the Q7 TDI to achieve a range in excess of 700 miles per tank***.

2014 MY Availability
A8 TDI           Spring 2013
A7 TDI           Fall 2013
A6 TDI           Fall 2013
Q5 TDI           Fall 2013

Pricing for all 2014 MY vehicles to be announced at a later date

2013 MY  Availability  Starting MSRP
Q7 TDI         Since September 2012      $52,000
* EPA estimates. Mileage will vary.
** Based on total A3 TDI and Q7 TDI vehicles sold, average nationwide gasoline fuel prices, and EPA estimated annual average miles driven.
*** Range based on 28-mpg highway EPA estimates and a 26.4-gallon fuel-tank. Mileage will vary.
Where stated, fuel economy values (mpg) are EPA estimates. All other fuel economy values are forecast manufacturer values for the USA; those EPA estimates were not available at time of release. Audi Connect and SiriusXM Traffic services may require additional subscriptions. MSRPs exclude taxes, title, transportation, options and dealer charges.

ABOUT AUDI

Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. Audi was a top-performing brand in Europe during 2011, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. AUDI AG is planning to invest a total of EUR 13 billion over the period 2012 through 2016 on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

# # #

It is time to upgrade my original Slingbox and add an iOS app

Posted By on November 19, 2012

Upgrades, discounts, sales, coupons … way too much temptation. There is yet another reason to ignore email advertising or online marketing. Unfortunately I’m not taking my own advice slingbox350and caved in to SlingMedia’s offer of a discount to upgrade my device either of their newer Slingboxes – 350 or “melted and warped” 500. I’ve opted for the more conventional looking and lower priced 350 and plan to replace my original Slingbox, which no longer works with my current mobile devices like it once did.

Mobile aside, I still use it daily in the corner of my computer screen running a silenced CNBC feed and don’t think I’ll mind the improved HDTV picture quality … if it streams? There is an added plus that the newer Slingboxes will work with the iPhone 5 so I’ll be interested to see how my unlimited Sprint connection streams or chokes on the data — 3G for the time being. I’m really not sure how it will work on the go (sorry for the pessimism), but am hoping that I can return to accessing content at least once in a while while traveling.

Unfortunately it looks like I’ll be required to buy 2 versions of the Slingplayer (supposedly on sale for $14.99) IF I want access on both my iPad and iPhone?

Photo-Nov-19,-1-19-30-PM

Intel will delay opening of stock on CEO retirement

Posted By on November 19, 2012

After 40 years at the helm of Intel ($INTC), CEO Paul Otellini intends to retire in May of 2012. The announcement has delayed the opening of Intel’s stock today and after a significant downturn in stock price will be another concern for investors.

Intel Corp. (INTC) President and Chief Executive Paul Otellini intends to retire in May, ending a nearly 40-year career with the chip maker.

“After almost four decades with the company and eight years as CEO, it’s time to move on and transfer Intel’s helm to a new generation of leadership,” Mr. Otellini said.

The board has begun the process of choosing Mr. Otellini’s successor and will consider internal and external candidates.
His replacement will take over the company during a shaky time for the semiconductor industry. Intel has largely been sheltered from the storms that pummeled the industry for the past year. Through a shaky global economy and supply chain disruptions, the company has remained buoyant, partly on the strength of emerging markets. But Intel reported last month its third-quarter profit fell 14% amid declining sales of personal computers and higher operating expenses, while revenue declined 5.5%.

During Otellini’s tenure as CEO, Intel said it generated $107 billion in cash from operations and made $23.5 billion in dividend payments.

The company also credited him for transforming its operations and cost structure, reinventing the personal computer with Ultrabook devices, expanding business partnerships and making strategic acquisitions that increased its presence in security, software and mobile communications.
The company promoted Renee James, head of Intel’s software business; Brian Krzanich, chief operating officer and head of worldwide manufacturing; and Stacy Smith, chief financial officer and director of corporate strategy to the position of executive vice president.
Shares closed Friday at $20.19 and were halted in premarket trading. The stock is down 17% since the start of the year.

Desultory - des-uhl-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee

  1. lacking in consistency, constancy, or visible order, disconnected; fitful: desultory conversation.
  2. digressing from or unconnected with the main subject; random: a desultory remark.
My Desultory Blog