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The basic Ring Alarm kit has a Base Station, Motion Detector, Range Extender,  Key Pad, and Contact Sensor.  I have only had the Ring Alarm system for a few weeks and I’m already a fan of the Ring ecosystem. Before the Ring Alarm, I also had purchased the Ring Floodlight Cam and I am equally as pleased. With the Ring Alarm basic package, you get a Base Station, Motion Detector, a Range Extender, Key Pad, and Contact Sensor. After experiencing what the Ring Alarm can do, you’ll probably add additional sensors and motion detectors. Depending on your skills, you can install this system yourself if you’re a handy person, with just a drill and a screwdriver. Or you might not need any tools, depending on your location for the components and whether you use adhesive strips instead of screws. Installation is a breeze following the instructions The Ring Alarm is not your typical alarm system and a traditional installation approach is not the best way. I choose to install all the compon...

The Black Friday shopping craze is almost here, and Bose is already out of the gate with some early headphones’ deals. With some help from Spending Lab, a firm who monitors the world of online retail and e-commerce, here are the top picks from the Bose line of devices. Try Bose noise cancelling headphones for peace and quiet First up for grabs is the Bose Quiet Comfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones designed for Apple devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, iPod touch 2nd generation or the later iPod classic and iPod Nano. The headphones, with rotating earcups, also include an inline mic/remote to control music functions. For noisy environments, such as the roar of an airplane, Bose says all you’ll hear is a whisper. When listening to music, you’ll be surprised at the subtle details you may have not noticed before. You can pick up a pair at this link for under $200. Active lifestyles call for the Bose SoundSport in your ears If you’re looking for some snazzy in-ear headphones, t...

The Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance has launched MBC Connect, an iOS and Android app to assist patients with building a database of patient information to drive research and seek solutions for the MBC community. MBC Connect app The features of the app, which is designed by patients, for patients, include access to an interactive patient registry and capabilities to explore patient data, as well as create a link between patients, clinical trials and relevant research. "MBC Connect is designed to address some very serious challenges in the MBC community," said Marc Hurlbert, Chairman, MBC Alliance. "It not only represents an opportunity to unlock the mysteries of a marginalized patient population, it also represents significant opportunity for a disease that's only received a fraction of breast cancer research funding." -------------------------------------------- Related : Be Bold, Be Bald in fight against cancer -------------------------------------------- MB...

It looks like the Amazon Alexa has some company, with the Google Home Hub arriving on the scene to muscle up to the Echo Show. This is Google’s version of a touchscreen smart display device announced at their new products shindig on October 9, 2018, in the Big Apple, or New York for some of us. It’ll sport a seven-inch screen and Google Assistant for voice commands. Google Home Hub loaded with features Among the other features are access to your Google calendar, reminders, shopping list and more. For smart-home fans, it’ll also tap into your Nest security cameras, Nest Hello video doorbell, lights and even the television. The display will dim at night and brighten up while the coffee is brewing in the morning. For inquiring minds, you can ask questions and get visual answers on weather, recipes of course, and videos from YouTube. And what’s a fancy smart device without music from your favorite songs, artists and streaming services, such as Pandora and Spotify. Google is saying all of...

APC Battery Backup always on standby I am all plugged into my APC UPS Battery Backup and ready for the next power outage. Some of my electronics won’t receive an abrupt shutdown as in past instances. A lot of us spends hundreds of dollars on electronic devices, plug them into power strips with surge protection and feel good about our efforts, until the power goes out, causing everything to grind to a complete halt. During a power outage, there is no time to saved critical files open on your computer or perform a safe-shutdown process. Mobile phones can’t be charged; the electric recliner won’t work; the pod coffee maker is idle. An uninterruptible power supply, such as the APC UPS Battery Backup, would provide some safeguards for a power outage and allow work to continue for a few hours, or at least provide ample time to safely shut everything down. The American Power Conversion Corporation, or APC, was established in 1981 and produced its first uninterruptible power supply, also known...

Razer embraces gamers with top performance The Razer Phone smartphone is now on the market as an Android device with hopes of taking mobile entertainment to the next level. Developed by a company best known for their high-performance gaming hardware with over 35 million users, their first smartphone is designed with gamers in mind with a phenomenal display, cinematic audio and long battery life. The new Razer smartphone will have to stack up against some of the current heavyweights in the market, such as the latest iPhone and Samsung devices. According to the company, the Razer will measure up with a 120Hz UltraMotion display, which is no slouch in the gaming sector. Without getting too technical, this feature is based on the Qualcomm QuickChange 4+ technology and the improvement in the refresh rate is impressive on the 5.72-inch display. Razer packed with Dolby Atmos audio technology For audio, the Razer is packed with Dolby Atmos technology, which has been labeled as the future of su...

The new Echo Show is a real showstopper The new Amazon Echo Show was left under the Christmas tree and we couldn’t wait until Christmas morning. This is one fun device and is worth tearing into the box early. The Echo Show is about as technologically advanced as you can get and does just about everything, plus more things you’ll discover while exploring the many features. The twist with the Echo Show is that it shows you what’s happening with visuals along with the voice notifications. The previous Echo devices fall short of the Echo Show’s features. Let’s take a closer look at the unique engineering of the Amazon’s latest wonder. Echo Show: What’s under the hood The Echo Show is square-shaped at 7.4 inches by 7.4 inches, with a seven-inch touchscreen color display. It tips the scales at around 41 ounces. There is a five-megapixel camera tucked away in the top bezel and blends in so well you might not notice it. On the top of the housing, you’ll find three simple buttons...

Propel Dart 1.0 drone is perfect for beginners My first drone, the Propel Dart 1.0, found its way into the shopping cart because it was on sale. I never thought I would want a Drone or even like flying a Drone, or let's say “trying to fly” a drone. The Propel Dart 1.0, my first drone, is about the size of a pack of cigarettes, plus four rotor blades. The technical specs say it’s a 2.4 GHz indoor/outdoor high-performance flying machine with a 200-foot operational range, supported by a 2.4G radio remote controller. Just like its larger cousins, such as a Boeing 747, it has LED directional white lights the front and red on the back. The Propel company has been in the drone business in the United States since 2006 and recently launched a line of Disney “Star Wars battle drones” with reverse propulsion, flight simulation, an iOS app and gaming for up to 12 players. For the Dart, I choose the bright red color off the shelves, as I thought it would be easier to see or find ...

Laptop Lift 90 optimizes workspace The Laptop Lift 90 is a combination riser and space-saver while also improving laptop function and the overall look of your workspace. This laptop organizer, introduced by newPCgadgets, a company with a mission to design unique computer products and accessories for Apple and PC computers, has claims of offering the only laptop accessory in the market with these uniques features. When using the Laptop 90 as a riser, it raises the laptop about one inch for increased ventilation, while holding it upright when used as a stand for storage and to maximize desk space. Vibrant colors of Laptop Lift 90 improves look of desk According to their president Michael Schriner, "With our new Laptop Lift 90° we have created a new way to organize the desktop, improve laptop function and save space. We have also enhanced the look of the workspace by offering vibrant colors that really stand out." Laptop Lift 90 designed for popular computers The Laptop...

A door chime company that has been around at least 80 years still has the magic in home comfort and convenience as they announce the Nutone Knock, which is their new video doorbell. The NuTone Knock, made by Broan, LLC, and NuTone, allows homeowners to see and speak to visitors in high resolution from anywhere on a smartphone or tablet. Using motion sensors, night vision and alarm functions, the device fosters peace of mind in knowing your home is safe and secure. "Homeowners have been asking for a multi-function doorbell system that combines the best intercom technology with security," said Jessica Lindquist, Global Category Director, Home Comfort & Convenience, for NuTone. According to the company, the NuTone Knock is easy to install and has exceptional Wi-Fi reception along with built-in voltage detection to tap into your existing doorbell wiring. The weather resistant features allows it to withstand dust, water, and temperatures between minus 22 degrees to 12...

For adventure seekers, Urban Armor Gear has introduced a new rugged case for the Microsoft Surface laptop that is built to military drop-test standards. Widely known as the maker of various rugged cases for the latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices, UAG strives to offer protection for thrill-seekers out on the trails with their mobile gear. "Laptops hold so much valuable information, and we are delighted to introduce a case that is designed to offer ultimate protection for Microsoft Surface devices," said Michael McVerry, Senior Marketing Manager at UAG. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UAG Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Feather-Light Composite [BLACK] Aluminum Stand Military Drop Tested Case ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Their latest case for the Surface lapt...

Find the TV remote, because Vizio Inc. is hoping to grab your attention with Amazon Video on their SmartCast TV platform. With just a few taps of the remote, SmartCast TV users can access content from Amazon Video, along with other favorite apps such as Crackle, Hulu, iHeartRadio, Netflix, Pluto TV, Vudu and XUMO1 on the big screen. The new features are available now to all 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series and M-Series Ultra HD Displays, with plans to add additional series such as 2017 VIZIO SmartCast E-Series Ultra HD Displays later this summer. Amazon Video allows consumers to buy or rent thousands of movies, while also granting unlimited access to thousands of titles, such as the Amazon Original Series and Movies such as Transparent, The Grand Tour and Manchester by the Sea and kids series Tumble Leaf. For new Prime customers, there is free 30-day trial to try out Prime Video. "With the recent launch of SmartCast TV, one of the things we're most excited about ...

Browse previous articles for the latest developments in consumer technology: Laptop Lift 90 maximizes desk space ---------------------------------------------------- NuTone Knock video doorbell ---------------------------------------------------- UAG expands cases to Surface laptop ---------------------------------------------------- Vizio brings Amazon Video to SmartCast TV ---------------------------------------------------- Using cloud-based tools for teamwork ---------------------------------------------------- iPhone 7 Urban Armor Gear cases ---------------------------------------------------- Jackery Jewel cable spare battery ----------------------------------------------------

By Toni Tantlinger | News and Experts Most businesses recognize that employee collaboration is a must for a productive and efficient workplace. But many companies aren’t set up properly to take the greatest advantage of one of their best tools for promoting that collaboration – technology, says Mayur Ramgir , founder and CEO of Zonopact Inc., , creator of the Clintra cloud-based software platform that allows businesses to store and access all their data in one location. “What I’ve found is businesses often have their data segmented,” Ramgir says. “One department has client information stored in a particular location, but other departments either don’t have access to it or can’t easily find it. That deters rather than promotes collaboration.” While there can be reasons to limit access to some data, business leaders need to understand that they are missing out on effective ways to let technology encourage teamwork in the workplace. “Employees become frustrated if there’s a file they nee...

As soon as the iPhone 7 was available, the case manufacturers were out of the gate with their offerings for protection against slippery hands and other mishaps. I have been testing an impressive case from Urban Armor Gear that offers the utmost protection from impact and shock, such as accidental drops and all an around rough and tumble lifestyle. This feather-light case from UAG's Monarch Series is built to military specifications and should handle any mishaps from urban warriors. Coming out of the packaging, you'll notice how light the case is at around 1.4 ounces and how sturdy the design feels in your hands. There are no less than four textured rubber grips in strategic locations around the edge of the case to help guard against slipping from your hands. On the back side, you'll find more innovative design touches in the polycarbonate shear textured material, an embossed UAG logo and other alloy metal design elements to help you maintain a good grip, as well as ma...

Anytime you can combine two functions into one is a plus in the technology world. That's why having a charging cable and battery together is probably going to be a big hit. The Jackery Jewel 2-in-1 Lightning Power Cable with an integrated battery is being pitched as the first ever Apple certified product to have this capability for extending iPhones' and iPads' battery power. The innovative cable from this Silicon Valley company can be charged from any USB outlet and also can be used to transfer files to computers or other devices. If you have an Apple device low on power, the Jackery Jewel can muster up an additional 20 percent of extra power and is rated at keeping an iPhone 6S charged for up to three extra hours of standby time. The cable is 39.4 inches in length, with the battery and circuit board inside a rugged plastic shell. A built-in LED gives battery information with red, green or blue levels, while also flashing in charging mode until completely char...

The technology of kitchen appliances is certainly not going to take a back seat to smartphones and smartwatches. Smart-refrigerators are on the way. LG Electronics is pushing kitchen technology forward with their InstaView feature on four new refrigerators coming soon to select retailers. Using a sleek glass panel that illuminates with two knocks, you'll be able to take a peek inside without opening the door.  If you see something enticing, the item can be accessed without opening the entire refrigerator. To prevent the loss of cold air, LG has incorporated a barrier between the interior compartment and the rest of the refrigerator. Although the door-in-door feature has been around for a while, LG's InstaView technology adds another level of innovation. Shoppers can start knocking on LG's hi-tech refrigerator doors in September for around $4,500.

When it comes to charging your smartphone or tablet, it’s just another mundane task with a skinny cable. There is not much to see there and certainly nothing to get excited about. But the Toddy Cable, a new charging cable coming down the pikes from Toddy Gear, Inc., is about to add some spice to charging your electronics. The idea behind the Toddy Cable includes personalization options to make your cable unique and less likely to be borrowed and not returned. Getting personal with the design for a Toddy Cable is easy enough by simply choosing from a selection of popular patterns and colors created with a 3D modeling process. You can also add a name, favorite quote or logo. For even more creative possibilities, you can upload your own design. The cables I’ve been testing has an eye-catching design with alternating shades of purple, blue, green and orange colors, intertwined with white slashes and has my name engraved on the flat USB connector. It’s quite jazzy and there are hu...

I had been thinking about purchasing a smartwatch for a while and had decided on the Apple Watch to match up with my up other Apple devices. The Pebble, Samsung, Sony and other brands didn’t appeal to me,so my shopping list was short. Then I discovered the Martian Notifier and that’s what I’m wearing on my wrist. I’ve had this smartwatch for about a month and I’m liking the features more and more each day. It was easy to get the Martian smartwatch paired with my iPhone using Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology. But the company does recommend a battery level of at least 50% before pairing for the first time. You’ll use a Micro USB Cable for connecting to the Martian and to a computer or a USB wall adapter. According to Martian, a full charge can be reached in 2-3 hours from a power outlet and 3-4 hours when charging from a computer. One tip is that the watch crown on the right side is shipped with it pulled out to “save the battery while shipping.” You’ll need to set the tim...