Showing posts with label car battery 12 volt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label car battery 12 volt. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Truck PAC ES1224 3200/1600 Peak Amp 12/24V Jump Starter with AWS

Truck PAC ES1224 3200/1600 Peak Amp 12/24V Jump Starter with AWSI BOUGHT THE TRUCK PAC ES1224 AFTER SEARCHING THE INTERNET AND CHECKING WITH THE LOCAL BATTERY SUPPLIER TO SEE WHAT THEY HAD TO OFFER.I CHOSE THIS UNIT AS I WANTED A NO NONSENSE JUMP STARTER PAC THAT WOULD GET THE JOB DONE.THIS UNIT DOES GET IT DONE WITH OUT ANY HASSLE.WE HAVE DIESEL TRACTORS AND TRUCKS AND WANTED A UNIT TO JUMP THEM AS NEEDED WITH OUT HAVING TO MANEUVER ANOTHER VEHICLE TO THEM TO USE JUMPER CABLES.OFTEN TIMES THE TRACTORS ARE IN AREAS THAT ARE HARD TO GET TO SUCH AS IN DEEP WOODS OR VERY MUDDY AREAS.WE CAN NOW JUST WALK IN AND GET THEM GOING WITH PLENTY OF POWER TO SPARE.THE UNIT HAS LONGER CABLES (60") THEN MOST OF THE UNITS I RESEARCHED WHICH IS A DEFINITE PLUS.YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SPEND ALOT OF TIME TO POSITION THE UNIT TO HOOK THE CABLES TO THE BATTERIES.THE CABLES ARE MADE OF #2 GAUGE CABLE WHICH WERE LARGER THAN MOST UNITS I RESEARCHED.THE CLAMPS ARE HEAVY DUTY AND THE CASE IS QUITE STOUT,THUS SHOULD HOLD UP WELL.I LIKE THE CLAMP HOLSTERS WHICH KEEP THEM PROTECTED,AS WELL AS SEPERATED WHILE NOT IN USE SHOULD THE UNIT BE LEFT ON WHEN STORED ON THE SERVICE TRUCK.THE 12/24VOLT FEATURE IS A PLUS ALSO AS NOW THIS ONE UNIT WILL DO IT ALL FOR US.I BOUGHT THE UNIT ON AMAZON AS THE PRICE WAS RIGHT,SHIPPING WAS FREE.THE UNIT ARRIVED FAST WITH A MINOR ISSUE DUE TO THE SHIPPER AND THE AMAZON CUSTOMER SERVICE MADE IT RIGHT IMMEDIATELY WHICH MADE ME ONE HAPPY CUSTOMER!I ALSO CONTACTED THE "CLORE AUTOMOTIVE" CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPT. WITH A QUESTION AND IT WAS QUITE A PLEASANT EXPERIENCE. THEY TOOK CARE OF WHAT I NEEDED IN A PROFESSIONAL MANNER AS WELL AS SHIPPED WHAT I NEEDED THE SAME DAY.THEIR SERVICE WAS 5 STAR AND THE BOTTOM LINE IS THEY TREATED ME AS IF THEY TRULY APPRECIATED ME BUYING ONE OF THE PRODUCTS THEY OFFERED.JUST ON AMAZON CUSTOMER SERVICE AND CLORE AUTOMOTIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPERIENCE I HAD HAS CAUSE ME TO RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT TO ANY ONE WHO MIGHT BE LOOKING FOR THIS TYPE OF HEAVY DUTY JUMP START UNIT!

This product works perfect for our company as we have tried other ones in the past that don't hold up.

Buy Truck PAC ES1224 3200/1600 Peak Amp 12/24V Jump Starter with AWS Now

Works good, I like that you can turn the unit off. Customer service is excellent. Has plenty of amps for most things you would need it for.

Read Best Reviews of Truck PAC ES1224 3200/1600 Peak Amp 12/24V Jump Starter with AWS Here

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTE CLICKER FOB FOR 2005-2008 PONTIAC G6 (FCC ID: KOBGT04A GM PART #: GM22733524)

KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTE CLICKER FOB FOR 2005-2008 PONTIAC G6 MUST BE PROGRAMMED BY A LOCKSMITH OR DEALERLove it, it works great! I had to go to dealer to have it programmed. My car has remote starter on it , so it was well worth the cost.

This product is great . Came in quick and works well. Beats paying the dealership $100 for the remote. Would buy again

Buy KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTE CLICKER FOB FOR 2005-2008 PONTIAC G6 (FCC ID: KOBGT04A GM PART #: GM22733524) Now

Replacement for the one from Pontiac that died after 6 yrs.

Works perfectly as stated in the description of the product.

Read Best Reviews of KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTE CLICKER FOB FOR 2005-2008 PONTIAC G6 (FCC ID: KOBGT04A GM PART #: GM22733524) Here

This was a great remote,have had it now for over 3 months,it has worked just fine.and starts car remotely,It was such a big savings over what GM dealership wanted for one,about $117 in my area,it did cost me fifty dollars to get it programed,which i expected,shipping from seller was quick,very happy with purchase.

Want KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTE CLICKER FOB FOR 2005-2008 PONTIAC G6 (FCC ID: KOBGT04A GM PART #: GM22733524) Discount?

I was worried this wouldn't be what I needed, even though the description was what I needed. I was happy to find it works perfectly. Dealer had no problem programming it. Might just order another. Fast shipment too.

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Sunday, July 27, 2014

OTC 3181 130 Amp Heavy-Duty Battery Load Tester

OTC 3181 130 Amp Heavy-Duty Battery Load TesterI wanted a 130-amp load tester because--at least per the manufacturers' claims--these units are more accurate than 100-amp models. The OTC 3181 looks exactly like the Actron CP7614 (except for brand markings on the front), but is far less expensive.

The OTC 3182 is a digital 130-amp load tester for just a bit more money than this OTC 3181, and it has a couple more features (an alternator test lead and a ripple detection light), but I tend to have better luck with analog products over digital products, in terms of reliability. Also, when you use the OTC 3182, it shows you just a number (the voltage reading), and you're on your own to interpret it. The OTC 3181, on the other hand, has "replace/weak/good" markings (in red/yellow/green), which make it very easy to interpret the results, without having to remember or think about what voltage range is acceptable during testing.

I was a little surprised at the size of the unit when I opened the box. It's a bit large! The clamps are large and strong. The overall feel is quality.

When testing a battery (unless it's a totally dead battery), the unit will heat up very significantly. Through the vent holes in the unit, you can actually see metal coils getting red hot, like little heater elements. That's how the load is applied--in the form of heat.

Testing is easy: With the vehicle and the key both off, attach the negative clamp to the negative post of the battery, then attach the positive clamp to the positive post of the battery. (People with mechanical experience may think this is backwards, since you normally attach the positive clamp first. I assure you, I am quoting the manufacturer here on the order advised.) Press and hold the rocker switch for 10 seconds, and then quickly look at the needle while still holding the switch down. (They advise against holding the rocker switch for more than 15 seconds.) To test the charging system, begin with the clamps attached as described above, then start the car and run it at 1,200 1,500 RPM, and read the needle. Remove the positive clamp, and then the negative.

When I was choosing a load tester, I kept reading about "zero adjust" features. I didn't know what that meant. Now that I have a unit in hand, I can see that it refers to a little screw in the face of the unit; turning this screw one way or the other (with the clamps not connected to anything!) allows you to adjust the needle so that it is accurately zeroed. That's all.

Easy to use and seems to work well. It appears to be a very well made tool. Seems heavy duty as the title says. If stored in a dry/safe place, see no reason why this wouldn't last for many years to come. The results it said, was verified with my multi-meter and my bosses "LED only" battery testing multi-meter.

Only negative thing is it don't give you the approximate CCA of a battery. (as the ones at the Walmart garage do). It basically takes off the surface charge of the battery (by running a built in heater), then you measure the output of the battery. Then you start the car/truck, and see if the charger is adding the correct amount of charge to the battery.

But since it don't say it gives you the CCA in the description, not taking off any stars. It does what it says it will do, and seems very well made.

Buy OTC 3181 130 Amp Heavy-Duty Battery Load Tester Now

My first battery load tester and I like it so far. It's clear and precise with the voltage, load and charging readings.

The only problem is that I feel that the cables are far too short as you have to bend downwards with the tester when it's connected to the car battery for testing.

One last thing, do not touch the back part of this testing when you're doing a load test. It get's freaking hot! It get's so hard that one might get 2nd degree burns if you aren't too careful.

Read Best Reviews of OTC 3181 130 Amp Heavy-Duty Battery Load Tester Here

I have used this tester twice now and it seems to function well. I agree with some reviewers that perhaps the cable length could be slightly longer, but I had no problem attaching them to the battery terminals. Be aware that the unit gets hot at the back, where it is vented, as it draws current during the test. I only drive my car every other week or so and only for a few miles, so I am constantly having to trickle charge my battery. This at least gives me an idea of its state of charge. I note that it can also be used to test the charging system but I have not tried that feature as yet.

Want OTC 3181 130 Amp Heavy-Duty Battery Load Tester Discount?

Excellent load tester. Easy to read and use. You can't go wrong with this one. Will last a long time.

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Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Tom Tom Incorporated Hands-Free Car Kit for iPhone

Tom Tom Incorporated Hands-Free Car Kit for iPhone
  • Hands-free Calling - Bluetooth connects your phone and car kit so you can make and answer calls safely while driving. Hands-free calling uses the car kit speakers and microphone. And it works even if your phone's not docked.
  • Extendable microphone - Clip the extendable microphone to the sun visor in your car to bring it closer. With less background noise, your conversations will be even clearer.
  • Sound Boost - A built-in 2 watt speaker brings quality audio to your car. Hear hands-free calls and navigation instructions loud and clear with Sound Boost.
  • Easy-reach answer and reject buttons - The easy-reach answer and reject buttons work even when your phone is not docked. On short journeys where you don't need navigation, you can answer or reject calls with your phone in your pocket.
  • Voice menu and spoken instructions - Connect your phone easily using the voice menu that gives you spoken instructions on how to pair a phone. The spoken instructions take you through step-by-step and give feedback such as 'phone connected'.

Using iPhone 4 with slider case. 30 pin connector built into case.

Pros.

-Blu tooth works great. Once you pair your phone it remembers pairing. Starting car without phone in dock you immediately get a voice prompt telling your phone is connected.

-It remembers volume setting. Doesn't revert back to middle volume but stays at set level.

-you don't have to remove case to use dock. 30 pin connector tilts forward place phone on connector tilt it back and it locks in place. To remove phone just push top holding arm back and tilt phone forward to remove.

-fast charges your phone while you are using it.

-built in 2watt speaker should be plenty in a car. (I have a pick up truck that doesn't filter out noise very well so have to turn speaker on full)

NO MORE removing phone from case!!!!!

Cons

-no GPS chip built in, my old tomtom does. Only useful if you have apps that could use the chip.

-bigger than old dock, but this is to accommodate telescoping top arm (locks phone in place)

-old dock suction cup smaller and closed flatter for transportation.

-default position for microphone on right hand side, as driver it would make more sense to have it on left side closer to driver when mounted towards middle of windshield or dash. (Mic can be clipped to visor but then you have another wire in the way.

-old tomtom dock had audio out port on side built in to run wire to cars aux port in. You could just leave it plugged in 24/7 no need to remove it.

This unit does not you must plug audio cable into headphone jack on phone. You must insert and remove it each time.

Overall a nice dock. Mount turns to hold phone vertical or horizontal. Since it locks top and bottom in place should work with any apple 30 pin device like I touch. With blue tooth you don't need phone in holder to use speaker.

This review for 30 pin connector they have a version for the new iPhone / I touch.

Buy Tom Tom Incorporated Hands-Free Car Kit for iPhone Now

Great product. Works with both of our iphones (3 and 4). Charges phones super fast and was easy to use and figure out. Fast shipping.

Read Best Reviews of Tom Tom Incorporated Hands-Free Car Kit for iPhone Here

man, i have the white ones already and love them. so i wanted to get this shoe and the red pair also. get them if you have wide feet or achie feet. they work will with all types!!

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

JL Audio CL441DSP CleanSweep OEM Audio Interface

JL Audio CL441DSP CleanSweep OEM Audio Interface
  • Accepts Virtually Any Analog Audio Signal.
  • 32-Bit SHARC DSP Processor.
  • 30 Bands Of Equalization

Works beautifully! Dramatically improved sound quality in conjunction with a nice amp. Was used in an 09 VW GTI w/ the premium package and Alpine MRV 1507 powering front components only.

Cons:

Have to use JL Volume Knob for optimal sound

Renders steering wheel volume controls useless (mute button still functions)

Aux audio input is non eq'd

I love this product and the additional volume knob doesn't really bother me.

Buy JL Audio CL441DSP CleanSweep OEM Audio Interface Now

This is a really cool device, however I would reconsider replacing the OEM head unit with an aftermarket for the cost. Make sure you get the JL Audio Test CD to calibrate the unit.

Read Best Reviews of JL Audio CL441DSP CleanSweep OEM Audio Interface Here

This unit really works with factory stereo player. It's amazing. Read the review from others and willing to try it. The sound quality is clear but if you set the gain too high on it, you will hear static noise. If it wasn't for that I would rate it 5 stars. Overall I am satisfied. Just make sure you have professional installing it, someone who knows what they doing.

Want JL Audio CL441DSP CleanSweep OEM Audio Interface Discount?

I currently have this installed with an XD600/1 amp to sub. I bought this with the thought that I can expand with another amp in the future. Rather than get a filter for OEM integration I went with a much pricier solution to allow a cleaner expansion in the future. So far the sound is great.

I don't get a hiss sound from it as reported from others.

The JL audio sweep allowed me to keep my original head unit and was easily installed. Great product and service!

Friday, February 21, 2014

Audiovox XMCK-10A XM Xpress Satellite Radio Car Kit

Audiovox XMCK-10A XM Xpress Satellite Radio Car Kit
  • Provides you with everything you need to bring the power of XM satellite radio to your car
  • Features an internal wireless FM transmitter, which allows you to play XM satellite radio through any audio device
  • Kit includes a swivel bracket to mount your docking station, a cigarette lighter 12-volt to 5-volt DC power adapter
  • Comes with the smallest available, magnetic roof-mount antennar
  • Runs on 5 volts, 2 amps of DC power, measures 4.44 x 2.44 x 1.22 inches

Right from the moment I plugged the unit into the cigarette lighter of the car (parked inside the garage with the doors shut) I was impressed the reception. I upgraded from the original Roady and was taken back with the excellent performance of this unit. I regularly make a trip from Chicago to Indianapolis, and with the old Roady I experienced several dead sites out in the country. With the new unit, no dead sites what-so-ever!!. (Not to say they don't exist)

PROS::::

* Awesome Satellite Reception

* Ability to Aim Antenna when hooked to home docking station

* FM Transmitter Performance is much increased over the original FM transmitters. (The old FM transmitters lacked fidelity.) The sound with this FM transmitter is strong, bass is deep and the highs are clear and crisp.

o This transmitter transmits through the external satellite antenna outside the car (as opposed to through the cigarette lighter adapter)

o Strong enough to block out fairly strong nearby FM stations.

o Can set the frequency to anything between 88.1 and 107.9

 Set the frequency by changing the dial

* The docking station has an auxiliary input and output. Imagine all of the useful things you can plug in there, like mp3 players or portable TVs /DVD/ Computer audio

* The Display is CRISP, CLEAR, and Easy to read day or night. The default is white background with black lettering. It is very easy to read, day or night.

* Has a dial for channel and option selection

* Size and weight are about half the size of that of the original Roady.

* Comes with everything you could need to hook it up in a car.

* The easy dock makes it easy to switch between car and house, just unplug it and go.

CONS:::::

* The only real con is that the buttons are hard to see at night. (Although after you initially get it setup, you shouldn't have to mess around with the buttons to much. The menu button is right in the middle. After you initially get set up that will probably be the only button you use. Lets face it, if you had the old Roady, then after a while you managed to work that thing in the dark with ease.

OVERALL:::::::

I highly recommend this product. I picked one up for $49 after rebates and the FM transmitter alone that comes with it is worth every bit of $49. Previously I had paid $40 for a Belkin TuneCast..........and couldn't transmit a signal across the room yet alone from inside the garage with the door shut.

The has performed well for me so far and has far exceeded my expectations at every turn

Take a look at the manual(see link below) to get an idea of how clear the screen is. (Although the manual does not do the unit justice)

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

http://gaskin.dyndns.org/reviews/xm_radio_audiovox_express.pdf

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Thanks

Bryon Gaskin

Buy Audiovox XMCK-10A XM Xpress Satellite Radio Car Kit Now

I bought the Roady XT last month when it first came out & loved it. Thought it couldn't possibly be topped, but boy, was I wrong.

The Audiovox Xpress actually beats it. The biggest improvement is the display; it's crisp and clear. Much of this improved clarity is due to the off-white background (don't know why the photo shows it with a blue background), which contrasts great with the black lettering. Additionally, the characters themselves seem much sharper.

Another big improvement over the Roady units: The Audiovox gives you much more information on the screen without having to switch between display modes. In addition to the artist/song title, it also gives you the channes # and name.

If an artist or song title is too long, the display will scroll. Unfortunately, XM still abbreviates some of the longer titles, probably because their early units didn't scroll, and they had a limited number of characters to work with. They need to start working on correcting this problem.

The FM modulator gives you a full range of choices from 88.1 through 107.9.

You can set the Tuneselect feature to search by either artist or song title.

And possibly the coolest thing about this unit: It also gives an audio INput, so it you decide to listen to a portable CD player, it also doubles as an FM modulator for external audio sources.

About the only complaint I can com up with is that some of the control buttons are tiny and crammed together. Apparently Audiovox was trying to dulicate the XM logo with the layout, but the result is an awkward layout. Stilll, given all the other positives about this unit, I can live with it.

Read Best Reviews of Audiovox XMCK-10A XM Xpress Satellite Radio Car Kit Here

I bought this for my father for Christmas, and he has enjoyed it very much. I did the installation myself (GMC Sierra pickup), and it's been years since I've fumbled around with car electronics. The antenna plug is just small enough that I was able to route it through his 3rd brake light, above the headliner, down the passenger side pillar and under the carpet to where I dash mounted the unit itself. All in all it took me about an hour to install, and most of that time was spent figuring out how to remove interior panels.

The included remote doesn't get much use since it's easier for him to just hit his preset buttons. You may also have trouble with the built in FM modulator, or rather the abundance of FM stations which interfere with the unit. We noticed a great increase in quality by using the included cassette adapter, but those with CD only stereos will obviously have trouble with that. The blue backlit display is large enough that he's able to read it without his reading glasses, which is another plus in our book. I will highly recommend this kit to anyone looking to add XM to their vehicle.

Want Audiovox XMCK-10A XM Xpress Satellite Radio Car Kit Discount?

The car kit is very easy to install once you pick a good spot and the reception is great. For the price this is a great buy > I chose XM because I like their Blues station--Bluesville--and I can't get enough

I bought on of these less than six months ago. The product was great while it worked. Easy install that anyone can do. The problem is that the display screen just stopped working. I expected get more than 6 months use out of this product. It's really too bad because I loved the idea of not doing a hard install and spending a ton of money. I would not recommend buying an Audiovox product ever again.

Saturday, February 15, 2014

Battery Tender 081-0069-4 Alligator Clips with Black 2-Pin Quick Disconnect Plug

Battery Tender 081-0069-4 Alligator Clips with Black 2-Pin Quick Disconnect PlugI ordered two of these and both had the color coding reversed. I had to correct it by removing the red and black plastic and re color coding with colored tape (typical China stuff). Other than that the units are fairly well made.

Right product, showed up quick, what can I say? I had a Battery Tender, and this was the option I needed to make it right.

Buy Battery Tender 081-0069-4 Alligator Clips with Black 2-Pin Quick Disconnect Plug Now

My husband loves these. They work perfect with his battery tender to keep our off-road vehicle charged! Will purchase again.

Read Best Reviews of Battery Tender 081-0069-4 Alligator Clips with Black 2-Pin Quick Disconnect Plug Here

Item delivery was fast and the item worked great as advertised. It should have been included with the original battery tender when it was purchased. The aligator clips makes it very easy to charge whatever scooter or motorcycle I want charged. I can't understand why the original had circle ends that made you unbolt the postive and negative connections of the battery so you install them to the battery and charger. The aligator clips eliminates the need to unbolt anything by just cliping it to the end of the positive and negative connections on the motor scooters battery.

Want Battery Tender 081-0069-4 Alligator Clips with Black 2-Pin Quick Disconnect Plug Discount?

I just wanted a replacement end for one of my many battery-tenders

thats what I got. priced right delivered on time.

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Monday, February 3, 2014

Kicker 09XI44 X-Series 4-Channel 4.0 Meter ROHS Compliant Twisted Pair Audio Interconnect Cable

Kicker 09XI44 X-Series 4-Channel 4.0 Meter ROHS Compliant Twisted Pair Audio Interconnect Cable
  • Dual Twisted Twisted Pair Conducters to eliminate inducted noise and interference
  • Hyper-flex technolgy allows the wire to bend, twist or contort in any way possible
  • Gold-cut collars, dual-split center pin and black protective-mesh, wire-loom jacket

i like em. have an entire kicker set up to see how i like kicker and these bad boys connect my receiver to the amp. kicker is a good brand. livin loud

Buy Kicker 09XI44 X-Series 4-Channel 4.0 Meter ROHS Compliant Twisted Pair Audio Interconnect Cable Now

KICKER JUST THE BEST THERE CAN BE THIS ARE THE BEST 4 CHANNEL RCA MAKES A CLEAN INSTALLATION GOOD FOR YOUR MIDS AND HIGHS AMP DOUBLE TWIST TECHNOLOGY THE PICTURE IS NOT THE ACTUAL ITEM BUT ITS THE KICKER 09XI44

Read Best Reviews of Kicker 09XI44 X-Series 4-Channel 4.0 Meter ROHS Compliant Twisted Pair Audio Interconnect Cable Here

Pros: Above average cable quality, good signal transfer, fairly rugged

Cons: VERY difficult to remove, shell that attaches to RCA terminal can come loose/unscrew easily

Purchased this through an Amazon vendor at a price that was roughly half that of a local store. Has been through two cars in two years and cables are still going pretty strong. The tendency of the terminal ends to unscrew and the difficulty of removing it is probably going to get me to shy away from Kicker RCAs in the future.

Note: The picture is a bit misleading. The photo Amazon provides is not the X-series.

Sunday, February 2, 2014

Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 Jump-N-Carry 12/24 Battery Booster - 12/24 Volt, 3000/1700 Amp

Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 Jump-N-Carry 12/24 Battery Booster - 12/24 Volt, 3000/1700 AmpRecommend this highly. This has the highest boosting power of any hand-held, consumer charger.

Easy to use, simple AND Made In USA!

I have used many of these jump packs in the past and they are very reliable. Standard shipping was actually a day early.

Buy Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 Jump-N-Carry 12/24 Battery Booster - 12/24 Volt, 3000/1700 Amp Now

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Auto Car Charger for Sansa C140/C150 E250/E270/E280 NEW

Auto Car Charger for Sansa C140/C150 E250/E270/E280 NEW
  • Brand new non-OEM. Vehicle Lighter Adaptor. (12~24v DC)
  • Short circuit protection. LED charging indication.
  • Plug never heats or overcharges the battery.
  • Can Charge Ni-Mh, Ni-cd and Li-Ion Battery.
  • Intelligent IC chip inside recognizes a full battery and automatically switch to a saver.

i received this item aproximetly 20 days ago and until 2 days ago i don't have a chance to try it.When i go to LA,I tried it but it was broken because it's wires are so thin.I couldn't use it.

Buy Auto Car Charger for Sansa C140/C150 E250/E270/E280 NEW Now

Somewhat flimsy relative to other car chargers; feels cheap, but functional. I would expect this to crack/break if one is not careful.

Read Best Reviews of Auto Car Charger for Sansa C140/C150 E250/E270/E280 NEW Here

Great for charging my Sansa View on the road. I leave my Sansa View in the car and mostly use it at work, I use car charger instead of bringing it home to charge.

Want Auto Car Charger for Sansa C140/C150 E250/E270/E280 NEW Discount?

It charges my e250. It seems adequately made for the money.

Beside the long-term reliability question, what else is there?

Monday, November 11, 2013

Garmin GPS 10 Deluxe with Bluetooth Technology

Garmin GPS 10 Deluxe with Bluetooth Technology
  • WAAS-Enabled, 12-Channel Sensor Receives GPS Satellite
  • Signals & Wirelessly Transmits Them To A Mobile Device
  • Adds Full-Featured GPS Navigation To Bluetooth-Enabled Devices
  • More Than 5 Million Points Of Interest Such As Restaurants, Hotels,
  • Gas Stations & Attractions

I've been using a Garmin StreetPilot III for 3 years now, for those unfamilar with it, its a all-in-one GPS unit with auto-routing feature and voice prompt. Its a good trusty device, highly rugged and I credit much of my career success in Silicon Valley to it.

What prompted me to start sourcing for another GPS device is due to the airport hassle we experience these days. I work for the Sales department of a security company and that means frequent travel these days. The StreetPilot III is an excellent device but its a little bulky to fit into my notebook bag.

Hence enter the Garmin GPS 10. I got mine for $209 from Digitally Unique, they're slow on shipping but the price was good. Get the Deluxe package and not the receiver only one, the Garmin software and maps are worth the money.

In comparison with the older StreetPilot, advantages are:

1. Small, light and easily fit into your pocket or laptop bag, easier when passing through airport security.

2. Integrated magnetic mount allows for mounting outside the rental car, a good solution in case you rented a car with heatsheild on the windscreen that can block GPS signal.

3. Waterproof, so you can still mount the device outside the car in adverse weather condition.

4. Software provided for both PocketPC and Windows OS (Mac / Linux users are out of luck here). Most business travellers like myself typically carry a PDA and for sure has a notebook. In case your PDA fails, you'll still have GPS capability using your notebook.

5. Enhanced software features includes:

More customization options

Cool transparent setting for indicators and prompts

Elevation indicator, nice feature when travelling

Easier filter for Waypoints and POI (Points of Interest)

6. Uses standard SD or Compact flash memory cards supported by your PDA instead of the proprietary flash memory cards from Garmin. Get the Viking 512mb SD card available from Amazon here with rebate, goes nicely if your PDA has a SD slot.

7. The GPS 10 turns on automatically if it detects power from the 12v cigarette lighter adaptor.

Disadvantages compared to StreetPilot III:

1. This could be related to my choice of PDA, I'm using a Dell Axim X5 PocketPC 2003. This PDA does not have an integrated Bluetooth so I use a Anycom Bluetooth CF card. Whenever I turn off the PDA and back on again, I need to re-connect the Bluetooth serial connection. Then I have to stop the Garmin nRoute software from searching the serial port, then reconnect again. A bit of a hassle compared to the StreetPilot III where you simply turn it on.

2. Routing algorithm not as good as StreetPilot III. The Pocket PC based routing logic seems to be slightly inferior to the one based on SP III (Palm OS based).

3. Depending on your PDA, the screen could be very difficult to read in the car. The Dell Axim X5 does not do well despite its transreflective LCD. The SP 3 on the other hand is clearly visible under all sorts of condition. Recommend you buy a PDA with a very bright screen.

4. PDA dependent. The SP 3 is a integrated device and is very rugged, sitting in direct sunlight for 2 years before I finally managed to buy a townhouse with a garage last year. The PDA however, is flimsy in comparison. I would not thing the Dell Axim will hold up being in sunlight all the time for 2 years.

5. Mounting a hassle. For a semi permanent mount in a car, you'll have to buy a mount either from Seidio or Arkon. However, those mounts are mainly for the PDA and you'll have to mount the GPS 10 seperately.

Recommendation:

1. If you do not travel by air frequently but is looking for a GPS device for use in your car, go with one of those all-in-one devices such as the older Garmin 2610/2620 or the newer Garmin c320/c330. They're much easier to use and mount, and are easier to see in your car.

2. For frequent travellers by air, get this Garmin GPS 10 and a good PDA. This combo is a lot more portable and works even if you end up renting a car with heatshield on the windscreen. Also, in case the PDA fails, you'll have your notebook to fall back on.

3. If you decide on the Garmin GPS 10, get a PDA that has the fastest possible processor. The latest Intel XScale running at 624Mhz is a good choice. My Axim X5 running 416Mhz though usable, I sometimes felt a faster processor would be nice when I'm planning a trip and markign waypoints on the PDA.

Buy Garmin GPS 10 Deluxe with Bluetooth Technology Now

I am an accountant with average PC skills. If you have a laptop with Bluetooth and another person to serve as navigator, the GPS 10 Deluxe is for you.

Set-up was easy. The n-Route laptop navigation software loaded quickly and easily as did the maps of the US and Canada. (On a laptop, you can load and unlock the maps all in one step.)

The GPS/software kit price is 5% of an installed navigator on new car while the functionality is comparable, and the laptop screen view and sound are excellent. Documentation of the software and GPS is thorough and easy to follow. The magnetic GPS 10 module clings securely to the hood or roof of your car.

Turn on your laptop and connect to the GPS 10 with Bluetooth. Then open the n-Route software and the laptop quickly connects with the GPS. You are ready to go (the software permits you to see how many satellites are being used to fix your position).

Assuming that you have saved your home and destination as "waypoints," you can easily create a route using two waypoints (beginning and end). The software/GPS allows your laptop follow the progress of your vehicle and provides suggested voice and visual directions along the way. Of course, you can chose to go your own way at any point, and the software automatically recalculates your route. At the bottom of the screen you can watch the ever-changing status including your current speed, direction, and time and distance to destination and next maneuver.

The maps have very good route detail and lots of helpful information regarding retail establishments and other points of interest, with an easy way to find them, especially when you are looking for something while traveling (gas, food, etc.).

You may need to change the setting on your firewall to disable the automatic detection of new wireless networks that you will encounter while travelingxx in residential areas, which will distract from your navigating.

Defining a "waypoint" by using a street address may take a little practice and some trial and error.

Read Best Reviews of Garmin GPS 10 Deluxe with Bluetooth Technology Here

Note When I ordered this, Amazon had the descriptions switched for two similar products. One comes with software, the other does not. The more expensive one comes with software.

I am using this with my HP IPaq PDA without problems. Routing is very accurate. The software is good and the find feature is like having the yellow pages in your hand as you can search companies, services etc and get their phine number as well as their address...

Product suggestion, make a small recess to keep the rubber plug that closes the power socket when not in use...

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Update 1/6/2010:

This unit has gotten better with time. Since initial review, I moved to the ATT (HTC) 8525, and a couple of software updates and a firmware update make this little beauty shine. None of the bluetooth disconnect issues exist anymore from the original review. Latest software included 3D view, and performance is much more reasonable on the 8525. Would get 5 stars if the unit would provide GPS to apps other than Garmin. Shame on you Garmin in your closed source, closed access attitude. New maps updates are ridiculous at $100+.

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The GPS unit is extremely sturdy, the magnetic mount is perfect, and the power adapter plug cover thingy is lost already (I've owned for a month).

I use the Cingular 8125 smart phone with the device. The GPS is the only bluetooth device I use with the phone. If the phone powers off, or the GPS is powered off, or the phone is taken out of the bluetooth range, the bluetooth partnership is never remembered. If the phone goes to sleep, the partnership is lost. Workaround is to keep the phone plugged in all the time, or turn off sleep mode on the phone.

Software on the PDA is fairly decent, but due to the weak processor in my phone (200MHz OMAP), calculating routes can take upwards of 2 minutes sometimes. The phone sometimes generates exceptions on the Que software when it is not even running.

Worse part of the software is getting maps onto the phone. I live and travel throughout Texas extensively, and about once a month I'll go somewhere outside of the state. I keep all of Texas (about 6 zones) stored on the SD card, but when I want to add say the D.C area, it's a complete reselect of all 6 zones in TX and then the new zones I want, and then the whole thing has to be uploaded through the USB link again. Ideally the software would read what zones you have already, then allow you to add or remove only those you want.

I wanted a GPS to use on a road trip to Arizona and ordered a GPS 10 to use with a Dell Axim PDA. Got he GPS 10 at end of April and used a couple of times. It worked as advertised. On the road trip to Arizona I plugged it into the cigeratte lighter to charge the battery. The unit got so hot I could not hold it. After that the GPS 10 would not come back on.

I have been trying for 3 days to call Garmin tech support and it is almost always busy. I did get thru once after holding for 45 minutes. After listening to the menu I selected the Outdoor option and was on hold some more. Finally someone answered the phone, said I was in the wrong que, tried to transfer me but we got disconnected. Tried calling again and was busy.

Finally got on the web site and sent a message to tech support. After 36 hrs. I got a response that said send it back for repairs.

Recieved the new one and got the blue tooth to connect to my PDA (dell axim 51v) but it would not connect to the Garmin Que software. Another call to Garmin (busy, hold, disconnect, busy again) after a week or so finally got thru to Garmin. Seems I needed a new unlock code since I changed units and the software is linked to the GPS unit and they must match. Once you get them all connected it works. But the next time you want to use it you must delete the Bluetooth connection and go thru the Bluetooth setup again.

If you use it with Microsoft Streets the unit will connect and follow along with little effort. The only problem is that MS streets will only download a small area at a time to the PDA. But it does work if you stay in the small area or load another map set.

Bottom Line I've had the system for 4 plus months and haven't got it to work properly in the whole time. Wasn't a good use of a couple hundred bucks

Monday, September 9, 2013

Swiss+Tech BodyGard 5-in-1 Multi-Function Emergency Tool with Key Ring

Swiss+Tech BodyGard 5-in-1 Multi-Function Emergency Tool with Key RingWas in a very bad car accident on freeway in Feb 09. I had all front end damage and airbags went off the whole shabang. Very frightening. My car traveled across all lanes of the freeway and slammed into the brick wall on right shoulder. I was so shaken up but my adrenaline was pumping, smoke was everywhere in the car and I was afraid it was going to catch on fire, I tried to open my door but couldn't, I had been carrying the Swiss-tech BodyGard 5 in 1 on me for about a year. Sort of bulky on my set of car keys and I thought, when am I ever going to use this? I paid the $15 for it and at that moment when I reached for it (the keys were still in ignition)I was praying it would work. I pressed it up against the glass of the drivers side and POW the glass exploded and broke a gigantic hole. I cleared the rest away with my hand and climbed out the driver's window. I can attest to say that this product worked and I am so happy I had it on me and am happy to be alive.

This came as part of a set of multiple items from Swiss-Tech. I tested the glass breaker, multiple times from various locations, and it didn't so much as scratch the glass. The siren can be loud, but it's also very easily stifled in the manner you are holding it. Haven't tested the seatbelt cutter, but I'm guessing my knives are just as well suited. It's way to bulky to be on my key chain.

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I just bought two of these one for myself and one for my wife. I have a friend who works in a junk yard and agreed to let me try them out, the first one I used shoved the rod through the plastic on the inside and the second popped out but did not have the power to break the glass. PLEASE do not count on this to save your life if you do buy one try it out several times before you trust it. The light would be handy though if you turned on the light it might help the rescue divers find your body!

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Not very well made; probably will not be at hand should you ever need it, unless you carry it on your keychain; it's really too big & bulky to carry on your car's keychain.

I bought one, tried it out as best I could, and eventually just rejected it to my junk drawn.

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It fell apart all the time. The blade wasn't sharp enough to cut a seat belt and the window breaker didn't break a thing. The alarm was barely loud. This eventall fell off my key chain due to it slides out.

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Thursday, August 22, 2013

Garmin Nuvi 750 Battery Replacement Kit with Installation Video, Tools, and Extended Life Battery.

Garmin Nuvi 750 Battery Replacement Kit with Installation Video, Tools, and Extended Life Battery. # 010-00583-00My Garmin Nuvi 750's battery would not hold a charge. If you check the Gamin website you'll find they don't sell battery replacements. I guess they expect us to buy new Garmins. I wanted to look at the battery before buying this kit, but was unable to find the right size star-screwdriver. This kit comes with a screwdriver, prying tool, battery, and CD that shows you how to replace the battery. It was easy to replace the battery and now my Garmin's battery can hold a charge. This kit is definately worth the money!

The process to replace my battery was simple and straigh forward. The tools and instructions provided were excellent. My GPS is now functioning like new, perhaps even better.

Buy Garmin Nuvi 750 Battery Replacement Kit with Installation Video, Tools, and Extended Life Battery. Now

Nov. 2, 2011

Received the kit and installed the battery today. This part of my review will be only on the kit and installation of the battery since I have not had time to do a real duration test of it. Therefore, this portion of my review will not cover the life of the battery.

The kit came with two screw drivers: a Philips head and a star head. The screws on my 750 were star-head, so there must be some out there with Philips head ones.

The DVD that came with the kit is adequate and basic but could have covered a few additional issues, hence the four star rating. The first was the difficulty of getting the back off the GPS unit. The kit comes with a plastic pry tool that you use to remove the back after removing the screws; however, the back on mine was a lot more difficult to remove than the one in the video. After about four or five tries, it finally yielded and came off. Removing the actual battery was also a lot more difficult than shown in the DVD because of the double-sided tape holding it in. The DVD demo showed the old battery merely falling out. Some reviewers remarked that there was no mention of double-sided tape being required for the new battery [the piece on the old battery would not come off it] because it would rattle around inside the GPS without it. Since the tape I had would have been very difficult to remove if it prevented the back from being replaced, I decided to try it without the tape first. As it turns out, I didn't need the tape at all; the new battery fit snugly in. Therefore, I recommend trying it without the tape first.

The new battery came about two-thirds already charged, and I re-charged it for about two hours to the four-bar level. I then ran a two-hour simulated trip, and it was back to about two-thirds. At the time of this writing, it has been on for about two hours and forty-five minutes and is down to about half charged.

[To be continued.]

Nov. 7, 2011

I fully charged the battery [overnight] and ran a 4-1/2 hour simulated trip. At the end, there was still some charge left so I left it on. It lasted an additional 20 minutes for a total of 4 hours 50 min.

Apr. 18, 2012

Battery is still working great. No complaints.

Read Best Reviews of Garmin Nuvi 750 Battery Replacement Kit with Installation Video, Tools, and Extended Life Battery. Here

I was leaving on vacation when my Nuvi 750 died in the car. I was forced to replace it with a newer model because we were driving about 6000 miles. Since I really missed some of the now discontinued 750's features I ordered this replacement battery kit as soon as I got home. The kit arrived quickly. The tools were simple and the video was easy to understand. I think they could have mentioned how the original battery is stuck in really tightly using double-sided tape. The actual replacement was very easy after the battery was "unstuck". Saddly enough the new battery didn't seem to hold a charge. I was miffed and contacted Innovate88 (via email through Amazon) expecting a hassle but they couldn't have been nicer. They immediately apologized and sent another battery which has been working just fine. There is a chance that I did something wrong with the first replacement, but they didn't even ask, they just sent another one right away. Thanks Bill at Innovate88.

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I really liked the fact that everything you need to change the battery is included along with the cd to visually see how to do it. It would be helpful if they would also include some type of double stick tape to hold the battery in place. Being a crafter, this was something I already had on hand. This would be a great benefit for others who purchase this.

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

HQRP Folding Flip Key FOB Shell Remote Case w/ 4 Buttons compatible with Volkswagen VW Jetta 2000 2

HQRP Folding Flip Key FOB Shell Remote Case w/ 4 Buttons compatible with Volkswagen VW Jetta 2000 2001 2002 00 01 02 plus HQRP UV Chain / UV Radiation Health TesterBy carefully disassembling this and trans-planting the PCB (little electronics board) inside your old fob, as well as the mechanical key, you essentially gain a new key for very low bucks.

Suggest getting a new battery while you are at it.

Instructions for the transplant:

The mechanical part of new and old key fobs pulls away from the "main body" with the buttons and "ring"; then you open the "main body" with a little mild force. These are tricky bits and require just a bit more force than most people find comfortable.

You will see the PCB in your old fob along with the old battery. Install new battery and your "old" PCB in the new "main body" then close it. Attach the "old" mechanical key bit to the "new" main body, and voila. The parts all snap together solidly and works just like they ought after the transplant.

PS: The weird looking flower thing is an irrelevant add-on supposedly to detect too much UV nevermind. It does seem to have just about the most ugly colors possible, and I can't imagine what it has to do with the key fob. Mine found their way into the trash bin.

This key shell blank worked perfect as a replacement for a broken shell. You have to strip the guts from your old key and insert them into this new shell. Everything fits, just like it came from VW!

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This is exactly as advertised and works great. I don't know what the other person was talking about that it was "previously activated" . . . it's just a shell with a key blank. There is nothing to "activate." Maybe the locksmith just needed 70 bucks.

I took the guts (circuit board and immobilizer chip) from the old key and then swapped key blades. All-in-all, it took me about five minutes. There was no programming involved.

You have to pry off the VW emblem and remove the screw to open the blade side of the key to swap the blade and immobilizer.

Read Best Reviews of HQRP Folding Flip Key FOB Shell Remote Case w/ 4 Buttons compatible with Volkswagen VW Jetta 2000 2 Here

It looks and feels original and was an easy replacement for my old worn out fob key. I've been looking around for this kind of product for a long time.

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A little hard to open, but that is by design, as the original is exactly like that too. the pc board from the original remote fits perfectly, and the buttons are actually better than the original which were kind of rubber and flexible. This one is firmer giving a better feel when the switch inside is actually activated as we press on. Be careful opening it. Hold it firmly with one hand as you use a screw driver to separate the pieces as illustrated in the paper, and if you wear gloves you may avoid scratching your hands as I did mine when it finally opened and the sharp plastic edge ran over my thumb making a deep long cut. My fault, not a defect on the device.