Showing posts with label online car battery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label online car battery. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

WOUXUN KG-UVD1P 136-174 / 400-470MHz Radio Handheld Transceiver

WOUXUN KG-UVD1P 136-174 / 400-470MHz Radio Handheld TransceiverThe Wouxun KG-UVD1P is a great radio. The Wouxun instruction manual is awful! Fortunately several people have gone online with instructions in English on how to operate the radio. The best advice for programming the radio is to buy the programming cable and programming software from "Main Place Company".

If this is your first radio then you must get your FCC license before you can transmit, but this is easy.

Go to eham.net for the study guide and practice exams. Take a few practice exams and then take the test.

Was initially very pleased. Rugged. Feels well in the hand. Excellent base. Funky keyboard layout. Overall, appeared to be an excellent product for the cost.

However, the UHF receive drops about 2 seconds into the transmission. Highly annoying, especially with scanning. I have not heard of other people having the problem, so likely just the one I got. Will be exchanging.

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Nice radio, small, very light, many functions, scan tones, flashlight!! 125 memories, etc.

Don`t like the scan mode, only Up or down and Prioriti channel. no skip.....

Read Best Reviews of WOUXUN KG-UVD1P 136-174 / 400-470MHz Radio Handheld Transceiver Here

This is a good radio for the price and can take a beating! Would recommend getting the programming cable for easy programming the memories.

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I purchased one of these from another vendor for about $130 shipped. I have used it for several months, including the collar mic, surveillance kits, multiple antennas, both as an amateur radio operator and in public safety. It works fine with good audio quality, but there are a few issues:

The radio's scan feature is crippled. If the radio is in scan, and you press the button to turn on the backlight, it stops scanning. If you press the button to turn on the LED, it stops scanning. If you try to lock the keypad, it stops scanning. If you want to change which channels are included in the scan, you have to reprogram it from a computer. You can't even use the dual VFO feature while in scan mode even though the second channel is still shown on the screen, it is never checked.

The radio itself has developed a problem. Under certain circumstances which aren't entirely clear, it will occasionally completely reset itself. I suspect this is due to a power connection issue inside the radio, but for something this cheap I'm not surprised. I'm probably going to replace it and use the broken one as a base station radio.

The belt clip, where it connects to the battery, is too tight. It takes serious effort to remove the belt clip. Which would be fine, except that it's also weak. The piece that actually fits in to the battery has broken on me, necessitating a replacement. In fact, all of the plastic pieces here are of significantly poorer quality than what you would get with, say, a Motorola.

I have used the longer antenna. It's too long to use in the field, but as a base antenna it works fine and does improve quality. While we're talking about antennas, on my original antenna the plastic piece has chipped, resulting in the actual antenna coming out of it at an angle. It still works, but yet another example of poor materials. The replacement antenna, the end cap fell off and got lost, so I had to cover it with gaffer's tape.

The surveillance earpiece works fine. The surveillance microphone does not. I am told that it results in a 'muffled' sound which is barely readable. The collar mic works fine.

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Friday, August 8, 2014

Parrot MKi9100 Advanced Bluetooth Hands-Free Music Kit

Parrot MKi9100 Advanced Bluetooth Hands-Free Music Kit
  • Full system dedicated to keeping connected and entertained in your car
  • Blue OLED 2 lines Screen lets you see whose calling or what song is playing
  • Double microphone technology eliminates background and surrounding noise, including noise from inside the car
  • Listen to your digital music in the car: compatible with all music sources, such as iPods, iPhones, and more
  • Cutting-edge telephony functions like automatic phonebook synchronization, training-free multi-speaker voice recognition, and more

I installed this in our Honda Fit using an aftermarket harness to make it (almost) "plug and play." I decided to purchase this rather than the Bluetooth add-on for the (Pioneer) stereo already installed, as it (Pioneer's Bluetooth unit) received pretty mediocre reviews, cost more, and of course wouldn't work if I eventually decide to put in a different brand stereo someday.

If you're never installed a car radio before, this probably isn't the first thing you should install yourself -I'd recommend having it professionally installed, since there are a good-sized handful of cables coming out of this thing that need to get routed properly, and you will most likely have to do some minor drilling and/or cutting to count the display and microphone if you want a really "clean" installation. As a yardstick, I probably spent 4 hours total on the installation.

Anyway, then, it does work as designed. The interface is fast and responsive, and I like the quality of the display. The software is pretty well thought out -perhaps A++-super-nerd programmers don't work at Parrot, but certainly above-average ones do. Pairing works quite nicely, automatically connecting to my phone when I get in the car & turn on the ignition and disconnecting shortly after the ignition goes off. When you're on a call, it asserts the "mute" line to the car's stereo which also pauses CD/USB/iPod playback, which is nice. I haven't had any of the communication failures/lock-ups that another reviewer here did.

Some minor gripes are as follows:

-While the noise reduction is effective up to ~45MPH (most callers wouldn't be able to guess you're calling from a car), it breaks down at highway speeds: Callers will still find you intelligible, but the occasional piece of a word is cut off and there is noticeable distortion. I attribute this so some degree to the rather noisy interior that is the Honda Fit (and most other inexpensive Hondas, for that matter) -at some level apparently the Parrot just can't reliably separate your voice from the as loud or louder cabin noise. Those with quieter cabins may not ever experience this problem. (I have tried turning "lateral noise detection" off and it does make things worse.)

-When hanging up calls, I often have to press the "hang up" button a couple of times. I suspect this is likely to be just as much the fault of the Parrot as my phone (a Sprint HTC Touch Pro 2), but it is a bit annoying.

-The manual is rather spartan. While it contains information on all the "basics," it does leave out explanations for some menu functions, which you're hence left to guess at. While most have names that make it easy to figure them out, there are a few where it's not quite clear exactly what the option does.

I think that this is a little on the spendy side for what you're getting, but overall I'm happy with it and feel that I've received a reasonable (if not spectacular) value for the money.

---

Update, mid-2011:

As other people have reported here, after about a year, the remote stopped working consistently. After messing around with it for awhile, it became clear that much of the "springiness" in the little "finger tab" contact that touches the negative side of the battery was gone and hence the battery no longer made good, solid contact to the electronics. I initially figured I'd stuff a small piece of aluminum foil (or just something stiff-but-spongy) underneath the contact, but after opening up the remote (there's just one screw under the label on the back side), I instead decided to fold the finger tab back on itself so that it's now more of a "U" shape and provides considerably more pressure between the battery and itself than ever before. So far this has worked quite well, and I'm most pleased with the 10-minute fix.

I do believe this is a design defect. Perhaps Parrot has fixed it by now? -They could readily solder down a differently shaped contact than the one my remote came with, so hopefully at some point they did update the design and fixed this problem.

One other thing: I've switched phones since writing the original review (now it's Android 2.3), and the "hang up" button does now work consistently.

Note that Parrot has released at least 3 or 4 firmware upgrades since my original review; I recommend obtaining them since, as least from where I'm sitting, the "fixed bugs / new features" list for the newer versions strike me as useful / attractive.

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I had this Parrot professionaly installed on my Pioneer AVH-P4100DVD, it works great for making and receiving calls, windows down or up, people hear me great on the other side, noone has complained about hearing noises on the background.

It pulls not only my contact list from my iPhone but also the battery charge level on the little screen. Voice commands work amazingly good.

The only complaint I have is that if you turn on the unit (when you turn on your car) with the iPhone already connected to the radio, when the iPhone starts to play music, the Parrot will detect it and WILL swap the music to bluetooth, that means that it will mute the radio, freeze the iPhone music controls on it and transfer both audio and iPhone controls to the Parrot unit.... I hate that. The only way I get around this is to connect the iPhone to my radio interface AFTER the Parrot has turned on completely and detected and sincronized the iPhone.

But, again, the bluetooth connectivity for making and receiving calls, works like a charm.

Read Best Reviews of Parrot MKi9100 Advanced Bluetooth Hands-Free Music Kit Here

I got this kit to replace an aging CK3100. I'm a HUGE fan of Parrot hands-free kits. I don't like bluetooth headsets: mine was never charged when I needed it; was uncomfortable after a few minutes; got misplaced all the time.

== background ==

When I originally purchased my ck3100, I was a bit skeptical about Parrot/had no experience with their products. After installing my ck3100, any doubts were erased from my mind. Parrot kits are solid and function very well.

I had a ck3100 and absolutely LOVED it. It did what it was supposed to, and didn't try to be more than what it was. I loved it so much, that I uninstalled it from my old car, and re-installed it in my current car. Alas, all good things must come to an end, and my trusty ck3100 died on me (after 6+ years).

Enter the MKi9100. While looking for a replacement for my beloved ck3100, I didn't want something with "a bunch of extra crap". The MKi9100 is a perfect upgrade. While researching a replacement for my ck3100, I made a list of "must haves" and "nice to haves".

== must have ==

the same basic functionality as the ck3100

the caller id screen should not be part of a stereo head unit

the display should be able to be mounted *anywhere*

a small footprint: no big screens, parts, etc.

must work seamlessly w/ iphone

== nice to have ==

music (bluebox -> stereo): via cable or bluetooth

have a remote control, so I can reach the buttons without moving/reaching too far (ya, I'm lazy)

== conclusions ==

::overall::

The MKi9100 meets all of my conditions, and has a few "bonus" features that I really like:

removable caller id screen (the small base mounts wherever you want, and the actual screen is detachable

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Schumacher PS-1562A DSR ProSeries 1.5 Amp 6/12 Volt Automatic Battery Charger/Maintainer

Schumacher PS-1562A DSR ProSeries 1.5 Amp 6/12 Volt Automatic Battery Charger/MaintainerThis charger has performed perfectly for charging & maintaining my lawn tractor battery. The older lawn tractor battery would not charge using my regular car battery charger & a smaller charger that I was using for this purpose. I purchased this charger & it charged this older battery perfectly! I was pleasantly surprised & it saved me from having to buy another battery. This is by far the best battery charger for the size & price. I would highly recommend this charger for this type of battery. I have not tried it on larger batteries so can not comment here. Buy this charger, it's great!

I like the numerous automatic features...no 6 or 12 volt switch (so no accidents), automatically senses the battery type, has thermal protection, charge abort if battery problems among other desirable features. Nice long cords and strong, good quality clamps. I use to maintain cycle battery over winter. Also, as I make many short trips to work and elsewhere, I will use once a month to charge car battery and be sure it is up to full charge. I don't remove the cables from the battery to charge on car as the low 1.5 amp will do no damage to any circuitry while charging battery. At least on my vehicle. Just what I wanted and would recommend. 2 yr warranty

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I've had this charger for a little over 9 months and used it 3 or 4 times on our car. I like it's compact size and the 3 lights, power on (red), charging (yellow) and charged (green). I also bought the Schumacher EC-25 25' Cable Connector Extension Cord.

I don't what the difference is between this model and the Schumacher SEM-1562A 1.5 Amp Speed Charge Maintainer (which costs less) but keep in mind before you buy that other model#, it notes the Proposition 65 warning (for California residents).

Read Best Reviews of Schumacher PS-1562A DSR ProSeries 1.5 Amp 6/12 Volt Automatic Battery Charger/Maintainer Here

I am using two of these charger/maintainers, as well as some other brands. This model claims to have temperature compensation, and although I have not used it yet in any temperature extremes, I have not seen any change in voltage in a small band of temperatures between 67 F and 78F. Let's assume it will compensate at temperatures out of that range, but even in that range, I've seen it raise voltage to 14.8, 14.9, even over 15V a few brief times. Fortuneately I've never seen it maintain over 14.8 for more than about 1.5 hours, so it probably has not done too much damage to my batteries, but I'd feel way safer it it stopped at around 14.4V, since it has no setting for battery type. Definitely not the one to use for GEL batteries. What's strange, but I find acceptable, is that in FLOAT mode, it's only about 13.25V, which is a bit less that would be expected when it charges at higher-than-normal voltages. Bottom line, is that since it doesn't normally stay at the excessive voltage levels for a very long time, and it stays then forever at a safe 13.25V (at around 70 F), it's probably a relatively safe charger/maintaner for such a cheap price, assuming it will voltage compensate at temperature extremes. If you are willing to pay a lot more for a far better charger/maintainer, look to BatteryMINDer 2012 or 12248 or Xantrex for the best, as far as I have ben able to determine, but for such a low price, I think this Schumacher ProSeries will most likely do more good than harm to most wet (non-GEL) lead-acid batteries.

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Very good for maintaining batteries, I have 8 of them now for my shop. This is one to buy for keeping your battery charge full.

eyespy

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Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Gogo Surge Yellow Color USB Travel Kit with Car Charger, Wall Charger and USB SYNC Cable Adapter fo

Gogo Surge Yellow Color USB Travel Kit with Car Charger, Wall Charger and USB SYNC Cable Adapter for Apple iPod & iPhone
  • Includes a SUPER EXTRA LONG 4ft Blue color USB Cable.
  • Compatible with iPad, iPod Nano, iPod Classic, iPod Touch & iPhone (All models)
  • Charge your iPhone or iPod at home, on the road, or whenever it's not connected to a computer
  • Nice Green Colored Chargers and Cable.

The USB cord works fine along with the wall plugin. But the car charger has its moments where it doesn't work. It looks cheaper in person than it does in the picture.

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The outlet adapter never worked. The wire worked for a week and stopped. The car charger has worked wonderfully for me. If your counting on all 3 to work you will be disappointed.

Read Best Reviews of Gogo Surge Yellow Color USB Travel Kit with Car Charger, Wall Charger and USB SYNC Cable Adapter fo Here

I purchased this charger, excited not to get mine confused with the rest of the family's. As soon as I opened the package, I plugged the charger in. I noticed that the connector to the device was quite loose, and it revealed the inner electric wires. The car charger was a darker shade of yellow than the other 2 pieces. One day, about 5 days after I received the package, I was charging my iTouch, and unplugged it. There was a message on the screen, stating "Your iPod Touch needs to cool down before you can use it". I was a little nervous, but a few seconds later the message disappeared. Returning this product, disappointedly.

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You get what you pay for. The charger cable and wall plug in is not the same color. The cable stopped working after about one month. Should have expected less than quality product for the price. Oh well...

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

DB LINK BTP2 Positive Battery Terminal

DB LINK BTP2 Positive Battery Terminal
  • Virtual Axis¿ Technology Provides Effortless Tilt Motion
  • 4-,8-,10-Gauge Input
  • Platinum/Gold-Plated

cheap allen bolt that shaves off metal when you tighten it, doesn't fit the posts well and the info said 1-0 ga connector with 1 4ga and 2 8 ga but it is a 2 ga NOT 0 gauge as advertised, waste of money same goes for the neg terminal

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This thing makes life a whole lot easier! Wish they had these years ago. I would recommend to anyone! Buying another just to have!

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I got this Terminal for it's top post mount. The space between my battery and fuse block is tight, with this terminal I was able to get power to my amp with out having to remove my battery from its tray. It has different inputs so you can safely add what you need to get power to your equipment. I will recommend this to anyone want to add an amp or other device that requires heavy cable for power.

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This one went on ok but the negative terminal is too loose on the post even with the screw all the way in and torqued beyond belief. Their engineers obviously aren't being drug tested. Also the positive terminal has no insulating cover like many other brands do. Always a nice thing having all that exposed metal with a direct line to the positive side of your battery just sitting there waiting to weld itself to your hood or something.

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Makes adding a new stereo amp a breeze. Had to run a hot wire straight to the battery terminal. I wanted the job to look professional. Nicely machined terminal.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Scosche motorMOUTH Plug and Play Bluetooth Handsfree Car Kit

Scosche motorMOUTH Plug and Play Bluetooth Handsfree Car KitWARNING -The item shown in the picture is NOT the one that ships. The picture represents the Scosche motorMOUTH II, item number BTAXS. The item shipped is the original Scosche motorMOUTH, item number BTAXM. If that's not the one you want, don't order. I'm going to try to return it on Monday. I'll post back with the results.

I got this to replace my auxiliary cable, so I could listen to podcasts and music from my Nexus One without having to plug my phone in every time. Unfortunately, it *only* accepts in-call sound from the Nexus One, making it useless to me (I drive a convertible; I don't care how good the product is, I just send calls to voicemail when I'm driving). Do not buy for Nexus One if you're hoping to use it for more than calls.

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If you want to listen to your music via bluetooth streaming, make sure you buy the Scosche motorMouth STEREO with the silver cap. If you do, you will be a very happy camper.

Read Best Reviews of Scosche motorMOUTH Plug and Play Bluetooth Handsfree Car Kit Here

Great product. Sound is excellent no echoing. Only glitch with my radio, is that it won't automatically switch to Aux and receive incoming calls. I have to change radio to aux and then answer a call. Overall very pleased with this device for the cost. Allows me to not wear the stupid looking bluetooth device in my ear.

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I bought this on clearance for $12 at wally world a few days ago. I will tell you right now. It is worth it. The only issue i have is that you A. wind up with a ridiculous mess of cables and B. Must switch from radio to AUX Manually. A little cable management solves problem A and I don't listen to much radio these days anyway. I did have to modify this to get it to work to my liking. The casing around the mic is kind of fragile. I noticed the casing nearly splitting away from the mike with every button press to answer calls. I used a tube of super glue to reinforce the plastic tabs holding the housing together. The glue for the mounting base is also too weak. I wound up having to use the screws provided to permanently afix the mic to an optimal audio zone. The audio switching splitter is the key to this device. Without it this thing does not work. Make sure you attach the correct plug to the correct slot in the splitter. RTFM!!! I honestly couldn't be happier with this setup. It saved me from having to buy a new stereo in a junky old car. The price amazon is selling this for currently is kind of off. You could buy a bluetooth enabled stereo for $80 these days. If you do find a good deal like I did though you won't be disappointed. The device works as advertised!

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Monday, April 7, 2014

Viper 7141V 4-Button Remote

Viper 7141V 4-Button RemoteBought this as a replacement for my Viper 7900. I had gone through 2 of the 7900 remote (which was bulky, the button wording wore off and gave out of range errors) before deciding to get this. I was skeptical at first buying this as it looked very basic, I would loose my 2-way communication and LCD screen that gives feedback on all actions of the original 7900 remote and looked really cheap. But that was going to cost $200 for a new one and this one was $25.

It fits nice in my hand, the buttons have a nice solid click, thin, and lightweight. Very easy to pair up with my alarm and the Viper alarm actually responds faster with this remote than the original remote. The Viper 7141V remote works so well that I really don't miss the LCD screen or 2-way communication.

I highly recommend this remote as a replacement!

I bought this because I have the VSS5000 package and hate the remote that came with the package. This remote has a much better tactile feel and functionality to it since it is designed in such a way that means you don't have to do a double check look at the remote to verify which button you're pushing. It does slightly increase the size of the remote you're carrying (and I like as small as possible) but to me it was worth it because of it's attractiveness and the previously mentioned tactile functionality.

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Safe to say after a year of owning these they deserve to have a thorough review. The 714 is as can be seen a 4 button setup. But more so the fact that the design with those 4 buttons is asthetically pleasing to the eye; should it be strange for a remote to look "sexy"? DEI thought so... and they may have won on that gamble. I tend to look at it and think it looks something like one of those really nice running shoes you always wanted to get.

Function wise this is, like most DEI remotes... backwards compatible. Presently I have this on a Viper 300+ and it works flawlessly. It will work for almost ANY older viper system which carried the old "green led" setup. Also this design is not too large albeit slightly longer, but it is one of the few remotes you can feel comfortable to walk around with in your pocket and not feel as if you needed to be a kangaroo...

Also, it is quite durable; Many of the older 3 button viper remotes had an issue where dropping it a few times would result in the battery holder breaking free from the circuit board... not so with the 714. it has taken much abuse in the time I've used it and possibly the only thing I hate is the fact that I scratched my "sexy shoes"

As it stands these remotes appeal to me SO much, that should I decide to sell my car or for the very least change to another VIPER, i will keep these as a spare or even use them on my other car; it is THAT GOOD and that appealing. So, if you are in the market for a replacement... look no further, unless you like large LCD sort of remotes that tells you the cat's sleeping on your car at a specific set of GPS coordinates and you can make your car horn the alarm clock at 4 in the morning...

BAH... I'll take the 714. 5 of 5 stars.

Read Best Reviews of Viper 7141V 4-Button Remote Here

Just thought Id let everyone know this does work with the Viper 571xv. This seems a little more durable than my original two way remote, but this one could still be better, range seems about the same or possibly slightly better.

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I'm replacing another remote that broke. Good price. My only problem is that I will have to take it and have some program it that knows that they are doing. Didn't expect that expense.

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Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Mr. Gasket Hot Rod Calc Street and Strip Performance Calculator

Mr. Gasket Hot Rod Calc Street and Strip Performance CalculatorGreat drag racing calculator. Figures just about anything for drag racing or engine info from HP to ET and a whole lot more. compression ratio, cubic inches, etc,etc,etc.

I purchased this for my husband for his birthday! He loves it. I can't tell you what he does with it but I see him getting it out and figuring things out without getting frustrated! For me that's priceless!

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I was stumped at Christmas time on what to get for the man who has everything race car... until someone told me about this gadget lol I got it for him and he absolutely loved it! It was his new favorite toy and said it worked great! It was cheaper here than on other websites and it made my husband's face light up! Thanks!

Read Best Reviews of Mr. Gasket Hot Rod Calc Street and Strip Performance Calculator Here

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Sunlinq Portable Solar Panel Charger 25W 12V

Sunlinq Portable Solar Panel Charger 25W 12VProduct Manufacturer: Global Solar Energy

Model Indication / Branding: Sunlinq 25 Watt folding solar panel

Manufacturer Model Number: PN 22127A

Weight: 26 ounces / 737 grams

Output Unloaded: 15.6 VDC

Rated Output: 12 VDC

Nominal voltage: 14.3 VDC(Averaged)

Power: 1500mA

Connector type: SAE 2 Pin Connector "Junction"

Sunset Anti-Feedback Diode: Yes

Cell composition: Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS)

Open size: 34" x 20" / 86.36 cm x 50.8 cm

Closed size: 8.5" x 10.5" x ~2.5" thick / 21.59 cm x 26.67 cm x 6.35 cm

This panel is my first foray into folding portable solar storage. The outer shell material appears to be a plasticized ballistic "rip stop" type nylon material [pattern] of at least a few mils thickness. (I will break out the micrometer if anyone is truly interested)

This product does not technically fall under the mil spec construction guidelines as identified by the manufacturer. The mil-spec units start at 30 Watts (or 62 Watts) and do not include the "accessory kit" . The accessory kit is only included with the 25 Watt and below units. I have not verified the low end of the scale for the accessory kit being included. But the buyer would be wise to ensure that if the kit is not included, that they have it.

This product material is stiff below 75F / 23C and prone to maintaining a memory. If allowed to be stretched out during daylight hours it will mostly conform to the flat or mildly curved surface below it, however below this temperature one will experience some mild displeasure at attempting to fold it when the following to conditions have been met. The materials has a core temp of >75F / 23C and it has been allowed to cool in a open/unfolded position. To create the least amount of stress on the panel one must consider folding these panels when warm. Unfolding the panel does not pose the same challenge as they will conform to the open position once warm.

This solar panel creates voltages that can be unhealthy for sealed/maintenance free batteries/ gel batteries and other types of batteries that do not allow the replenishment of water/acid levels. While the amperage levels are well below the unsafe levels, overcharging batteries by applying high voltages over long periods of time can produce undesirable performance characteristics in the batteries. The optional voltage regulator / charge controller is HIGHLY recommended.

This is a casual use panel. The intended purpose is to suit the qualifications of being ultra portable, mildly rugged and super cool.

The efficiency falls in between that of a rigid glass /silicone panel and above the older amorphous technology. Under peak/ideal conditions somewhere around 19%.

This panel is capable of charging smaller electronic devices directly so long as its output is regulated. On extremely bright days with low load is easily capable of producing voltages that have the potential to severely damage most consumer electronics.

In my setting I use it to keep several gel cell batteries (in parallel) topped up while car camping. This is easily enough power to run many strings of LED lights, a moderate sized car based audio system and the 12VDC margarita blender occasionally through a night and easily for 5-7 days of car camping with no outside input.

I cannot speak to survivalist purpose, but I must say that given proper care and conditions I would expect these panels to work as well as any other glass / silicone unit without the weight. Perhaps even longer for the mil-spec version.

As far as bang for the dollar is concerned. If you are looking for huge power outputs. These are not the panels you are interested in. These panels are built solely for the purpose of being lightweight, rugged and portable.

And with that purpose in mind I must say that i highly recommend them!

Used this product only a few times so far. It has not let me down. I would recommend using the charge controller with it. I hooked up two 7A-hr batteries (from a computer UPS). My system filled my backpack, but wasn't too heavy for our hike. This system worked great to keep my sat-phone charged as well as power left for charging some dry cell batteries.

Buy Sunlinq Portable Solar Panel Charger 25W 12V Now

This is actually a pretty nice solar charger. It only has two negative aspects. First, it only has an energy efficiency rating of about 7%, and even with tender loving care, you can forget about it lasting more than about 3-4 years.

Originally touted as "weatherproof," this Global Solar device actually can be ruined by rain. As for the sun, it tends to dry out and crack when exposed to long sessions and the materials break down with sustained use. Even when pampered, a 3-year lifespan is all that can be hoped for, and this according to the manufacturer. It's great for the camper or hunter, who needs to pack it in a backpack, but somewhat lacking for the survivalist, who expects a 25+ year service life.

The 6W or 12W may be the way to go unless money is no object. Sadly, there's no other option except heavier glass paneled portable units, which weigh about nine pounds. If cared for, though, the heavier glass unit will provide significantly longer, if still indefinate, use.

Read Best Reviews of Sunlinq Portable Solar Panel Charger 25W 12V Here

I had previously purchased the 12W version and discovered it to be very effective, especially on cloudy or overcast days. Since the 12W version had served me so well, I decided to purchase the more powerful 25W version even knowing the company is now out of business and the obvious greater expense.

I travel frequently in a van camper where weight & space limitations are an ever present factor, which is why I was attracted to the light weight, flexible technology in the first place. I also like to boon-dock; in those instances a well charged battery is essential.

The first thing I noticed about the 25W version is its tendency to retain a shape memory. Presumably, because the internal wires are heavier to be able to carry more electricity? Don't know, I'm not that savvy about these things.

My only concern about this model, is whether or not those wires will break with repeated opening and closing of the unit. The 12W version does not display that tendency.

A few months ago I replaced all the interior lighting in the van with LED bulbs, they are pricey but their lower power consumption, while providing adequate lighting, has proved to be very helpful, leaving more power available for the battery operated fan, TV or DVD player.

I also purchased the "Y" cable so both panels can be used simultaneously and as the literature recommended, a charge controller to prevent battery damage. So far it is all working well for my situation. If anything changes I will revise this review.

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Sunday, January 12, 2014

XTG Technology 4-Port USB Car Charger - Quad Auto Power - Ideal for iPod, iPhone, GPS, Cell Phones

XTG Technology 4-Port USB Car Charger - Quad Auto Power - Ideal for iPod, iPhone, GPS, Cell Phones
  • Input: DC12V 1A max
  • Output: 5V= 600Ma 1.5A (For 1-4xUSB)
  • Charge up to devices at once from your vehicle's cigarette lighter
  • Power and charge up to 4 of your USB powered devices with the proper USB cable (not included)
  • Ultra Compact

Most usb devices charge using a standard 500mA usb output. Some devices require 1000mA 1500mA (1-1.5amps). While all 500mA devices charge just fine, this device apparently will not support 1500mA even if only powering a single device despite being rated at 2amps ttl.

So beware, you can charge up to 4 devices requiring 500mA but devices requiring 1500mA will likely not charge at all.

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This charger does not charge most of my mobile devices (Apple iPad, Verizon MiFi and Samsung Vibrant), however it is working fine with other devices like Garmin Nuvi GPS and HTC Touch2 phone.

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Neither iPhone nor iPad can be charged by this unit.

If those are your target devices make another choice.

/S

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This is a great unit and is exactly as advertised Loving the numerous USB outlets. The power output isn't huge but works great with what I need (my iPod, and family's cell phones). A+

It worked pretty great for about a month and then (I guess) just blew out. So the lights are still lit, but it won't charge anything. I would definitely not recommend this.

Friday, July 26, 2013

Whistler XTR-265 Radar/Laser Detector (Grey)

Whistler XTR-265 Radar/Laser Detector
  • Radar/Laser detector provides 360-degree alerts for radar and laser signals, POP mode alerts, Safety Warning System alerts
  • Patented VG-2 cloaking technology makes you invisible to radar detector detectors
  • Brilliant numeric icon display indicates power, city mode, radar band identification; with seven-segment signal strength meter
  • 3 City Modes and Highway Mode for reducing false alerts; dim/dark mode
  • One-year warranty

I will admit up front that I bought this unit based solely on price. That, and the fact I am a long time buyer of Whistler radar detectors. Like another reviewer here, my first experience with a radar detector was a now ancient "fuzz buster" that never really failed on me, but merely became obsolete over time. I took a long break over the years from radar detectors mostly due to the fact that I am older now and hardly ever in that much of a hurry. Unfortunately under the disguise of supposedly only being interested in saving our lives, radar traps and pull overs from rolling radar has increased dramatically over the last few years where I live. Severe financial problems on the state and local level has been holding us in its iron grip here long before it became fashionable nation wide. So now that things have gone from normally flat busted to fiddling with financial collapse, the police in the state have expanded their role as peace makers to that of rolling revenue agents. There was a long time here where friendly warnings where handed out generously for a 40 plus year driver like myself cruising a couple of miles over the speed limit. The police had bigger fish they were after. A true vehicular desperado I was not. Those days of yore have unfortunately vanished in the wake of the towns and states flashing empty pockets all around.

In an effort not to see my own contribution to the problem come at the hands of purportedly "saving my life", I purchased this Whistler 265 model about 6 months ago. I was quite taken aback by the wide range of prices on these units at first. The last time I bought one there was perhaps a $50 price difference between the economy model and a true space age unit. Now it can be as high as $400 or more. Since this 265 was a Whistler that was capable of picking up all the radar technology currently available, and cost about $45, I decided this was the one for me. All I can say from my own experience with this fine unit is I can only imagine what those higher priced models really do, for this 265 seems to perform it all quite nicely. Simply put, its the best $45 I have spent in a very long time. The 265 is easy to install on your windshield with the bracket provided, and a coil style cord plugs into your cigarette lighter, or 12 volt outlet that just about all cars provide these days. (If you prefer to install on your dash or elsewhere, a velcro strip will hold this unit easily). As far as features, the 265 seems to have all one could ask for. This Whistler provides tone alerts, quiet modes, numeric icon displays, alert priority, and even a vehicle battery saver. It also has both visual and audible alerts, and a volume control. As far as actually detecting and warning you of any radar in the area, mine has so far never missed a beat. Although I am not much of a heavy footer that needs as much advanced warning as possible, I would have to say that any warning that does come from the 265 has been in advance enough to save me from being picked up in about 80% of the cases, or more. It is especially capable in picking up stationary radar, which although a lot of advertisements for these devices claim has gone out of style in favor of rolling radar, is still well in vogue here in my neck of the woods. I have picked up signals so far in advance in some of the stationary cases that at times I felt the the detector is picking up something else. Then lo and behold, smokey appears on the side of the road. For rolling radar, the advance warning is a little more random, but still very effective in my opinion. It is omni directional and will pick up a radar signal far off the side of you as easily as it does ahead, or behind you. I love this little unit and feel it is personally the best deal in detectors that there is going on the market presently.

In conclusion, I should mention that I live in a small town. There are no real heavily congested areas, or locales where there is any real city atmosphere. So my detector doesn't really have to work that hard at distinguishing alarms and doors openers from the real McCoy. If you live in a city or any form of heavily congested area with a lot of commerce, it very well may be a good idea to move up to a higher priced, more sensitive model. Personally I feel that the only difference between the high ticket radar detectors and this model is their ability to differentiate between real speed radar, and any other device that uses the same technology. That, and perhaps a little more technology in giving you a shade more warning. For a small town atmosphere like where I live, I honestly feel that the Whistler XTR-265 is all the radar detector you should ever need. Unless you simply love to speed, or the local police seem to have a special fondness for you, why pay more. A good, solid, dependable unit. Highly recommended...

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I replaced an acient Whistler that missed four different cops shooting something on the Interstate on a trip to FL. I then took another trip to FL with the XTR-265 and it showed me every cop plus is better at ignoring auto doors. I picked this unit for the reputation of Whistler from my experience and written reviews. Now that I have a unit that will show me the cops everywhere I can travel without worrying about speed traps. This unit also remembers the last settings so you don't have to change them every time you start your car. BTW: I still have my original Fuzz Buster from the 70's sitting on a shelf as a memento.

Read Best Reviews of Whistler XTR-265 Radar/Laser Detector (Grey) Here

I've been using this Radar Detector since February of 2011. The reason i bought this detector is because i drive 100 miles a day to and from my workplace and it is a very highly traveled area for state and local police. What I've noticed is that this detector is spot on with K, KA and X Bands, while it seems that Airports and Cell Phone towers in some cases put out a high amount of X Band Radar, it can cause some interference with this detector. But it's manageable to clear those alerts using the quiet button.

However, this detector does not register Laser Radars (LIDARS) in my area. I have watched countless Wisconsin state trooper's point their LIDAR at me with no notification from this detector that they in fact are tracking me. I can recall at least 4 times that i know of, where i saw this happen.

With that said, buy this detector for the RADAR detecting, not the Laser detecting. I thought about returning this product, but since you can't do much when your hit by a LIDAR to make it worth the trouble to return it.

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I bought this to use in the wife's vehicle, so I wouldn't have to switch my other detector between vehicles every time I drove hers. I also own an XTR-145, which I bought at a wholesale store, and it is fantastic. It has saved me probably thousands of dollars over the last three years. The XTR-265, though, will alert me to "Laser" several times a day, though that technology isn't currently being used where I live. I saw other comments about it not picking-up radar from police cars, and assumed that the police just didn't have their radar on, but I see what they were talking about now. During the first week of using it, I passed 9 police cars that I know for sure, had their radars active, and pointed right at me, and the XTR-265 never made a sound. I have been using it for a couple of months now, and it does alert, on occasion, but I am getting more automatic door openers than real threats. I am probably going to try to sell the XTR-265.

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This detector is not as sensitive as my Bel 965. But, I think it is a good unit for the price. The indicators are very easily read and it is a solid detector.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Husky Liners Custom Fit Front and Second Seat Floor Liner Set for Select Dodge Ram Models (Grey)

Husky Liners Custom Fit Front and Second Seat Floor Liner Set for Select Dodge Ram ModelsThese are great and exactly as described by manufacturer. I've had these for more than a year and they are still awesome. If you want to protect your floor, Husky Liners are the way to go. They conform to the exact fit of your vehicle, stay in place and trap the dirt/mud/water. A little pricey but worth the money.

These worked perfectly, they went in with-in five minutes and look great. Have had them for awhile now and they have not slipped one time would recommend to anyone wanting the ultimate protection.

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