Listen to your favorite music while working out with these portable players

For most people, listening to their favorite music is a great motivator while working out. While working out, you need a media device that is light, compact to carry around, can be easily clipped onto your clothes, does not fall off while you are exercising or running, is resistant to sweat, and easy to use. Although smartphones are viable devices for listening to music, they are not suitable for use while working out. Also, if you want to listen to music while you do your swimming laps, you will want a portable audio and video device that is waterproof. Here are a few popular portable audio and video devices that have been known to perfect for a good workout session.

• Aerb 4G Waterproof MP3 Player: These belong to the category of budget portable audio and video devices. Priced at around $50, this device has a functional design with the bare basic necessities incorporated in it. You can listen to music with this waterproof device while swimming or while you are working out. It is resistant to water at a depth of up to three meters. Made of plastic, this device can be held in your hand with its grip support, or it can be clipped on your workout apparel. This device supports MP3 and WMA format songs. Audio files can be transferred using USB.
• Sony Sports MP3 Player: The Sony Sports portable player is a dedicated workout gear. Its unique design has been made for use while running and doing exercises. Resembling a pair of headphones, this device is comfortable and hands-free. The quality of music is quite high. Along with listening to music, this device lets you listen to audiobooks as well. It has an internal storage capacity of 4 GB. The device has Bluetooth capabilities that let you take calls and stream music. The battery lasts for about 8 hours. The device is waterproof at a depth of approximately two meters. The device costs around $120.
• AGPTEK A26: Made of silicon case, this portable audio and video player is very lightweight and can be attached to your workout gear with its back clip. The device supports nearly all file formats. Its internal storage capacity is 8 GB, which is expandable to 64 GB with a MicroSD card. It also has Bluetooth capability, FM radio, a digital clock, and can display lyrics of stored songs on its digital interface. The device can store up to 2000 songs, and it gives approximately 30 hours of continuous playback. This portable player costs around $45.
• TomTom Spark Cardio: This portable audio and video device doubles up as a fitness tracker and a smartwatch. It is worn around the wrist. It comes bundled with wireless Bluetooth headphones to easy listening as you work out. The fitness tracker allows you to check your workout progress by indicating the number of active minutes, steps taken, calories burned, and the heart rate. The fitness tracker has eight modes for different activities such as swimming, cycling, and running. The device can also be synchronized with various fitness apps. It can store up to 500 songs. On a full charge, the battery allows nearly 56 hours of playback time.
• FX-Sport VRX Wireless Smart Sports Headphones: If you are willing to splurge on your workout portable audio and video device, you can buy this premium player, that is also a pair of headphones. This wireless player is resistant to sweat and rain. It has an internal memory of 8 GB and has a total playback time of 5 hours on a single recharge. The device is preloaded with workout routines that you can choose and follow as you like. The control functions are located on one side of the headphones, so you can easily navigate through your playlist as you work out.

Different types of applications for GPS systems

GPS systems were developed back in the 80’s and were first used for military and government applications. However, as the technology developed and evolved, its makers saw a potential market in the form of civilian applications. Nowadays GPS is considered as a dual-use technology for both its military and civilian applications.

Here is a list of some of the most common and useful applications of GPS and navigation systems in day to day technology.

Agriculture: Agriculture is one of the most important sectors when it comes to any country’s economy, which is why the use of proprietary GPS and navigation systems in this sector will not sound very surprising. GPS systems are being used for Site-Specific Management and precision agriculture. This process involves measuring the yield on much smaller scales to determine accurate output and mapping of fields.

Telematic systems: GPS is a primary feature in telematics systems which are the integrated use of computers and mobile communications when it comes to the automotive industry. Automotive GPS and navigation systems are installed in almost every automobile out there today.

Tectonics: Commercial applications of GPS and navigation includes the technology’s incorporation in earthquake monitoring systems. GPS is helpful in direct fault motion measurement to estimate and even to some extent predict a pattern of seismic activity based on historical activity. This data is then used to compile seismic hazard maps for future reference.

Surveying: Surveying plays a major role when it comes to expansion and exploration of new land masses for urban development, which is where proprietary GPS and navigation systems come very handy. The accurate location is used to determine and map the boundary lines and permitted territories for various projects.

Geotagging: The location coordinates of an image taken or any video recording will get mapped and embedded into the file, automatically creating a marker which can help trace the said location. This is called geotagging and can prove to be quite useful to find out where the said image or video was taken, for a number of purposes.

Geofencing: Geofencing application of GPS and navigation systems include the use of the technology in tracking movements of GPS based devices which are attached to vehicles, devices carried by people and also for pets to track and map their movements. Generally, not all GPS devices will be capable of sending back signals to be tracked, but the ones which are designed specifically for geotagging purposes will have this feature.

Fleet tracking: Fleet tracking GPS and navigation systems are used to locate and track movements of valuable shipments forming part of a cargo fleet, in real time.

Scientific applications: Commercial and civilian applications also include the use of proprietary GPS and Navigation systems in assessing weather and atmospheric movements. This data is very useful for mapping out the storm and other natural disaster patterns, to predict and ascertain the severity of the condition. This technique is also known as radio occultation.

Disaster management and emergency services: EMS and management services rely heavily on proprietary GPS systems to navigate their way through and find the best and fastest route to reach the people who are in need of help. GPS signals remain unaffected and can be accurate to the letter which proves to be extremely useful in times of need.

GPS systems which are designed for civilian use have a number of restrictions, for safety reasons. Civilian receivers are capable of functioning above 60000 feet of altitude with the satellites orbiting speed of 1000 knots. The signals which are received by the military and civilian both are same, with the distinction of equipment being the only difference when it comes to reception.

Myths about GPS systems dismissed

GPS and navigation systems have been around for over three decades now. While we do rely on these systems to guide us on a daily basis, not many of us are aware of how these navigation systems are designed and function.

It also doesn’t help when there is too much information being bombarded on the internet, with a number of myths that question the very functioning of these devices. Myths about GPS and navigation signals, the involvement of the government, the impact of weather on the signal strength and location accuracy among many others are creating a lot of confusion about this beneficial technology.

There are facts which state otherwise and dismiss these myths. Here are common myths about GPS technology dismissed for your reference:

GPS signals: A lot of people believe that GPS signals originate from independent signal stations set up along multiple routes and coverage areas to help you locate and map out your travel. However, GPS and navigation signals are transmitted through the vast network of satellites orbiting planet earth. The signal bounces off through multiple satellites to provide all the relevant data. Bottom line, these signals originate from above through satellites and not ground signal systems.

The military does not control GPS signals: While many may argue that the military can monitor and control GPS and navigation signals, it is only partially true. The military has space squadrons which can monitor GPS signals, but not control them. The government still maintains all regulations of proprietary GPS systems, which is a taxpayer-funded program.

The government can track your movements: This is another myth! The basic systems are just designed to receive signals and not transmit your location back accurately. Most vehicles that have proprietary GPS and navigation systems are designed to receive satellite signals to pinpoint your location and navigate.

Weather can affect signals: Satellite TV can get affected due to bad weather owing to the inherent design of these signals. GPS, however, it does not get affected by bad weather. As long as the GPS systems are free of any obstruction which will block the signal strength, there is no reason to be worried about catching a signal on the go. Location accuracy also will not get affected when you are outside, regardless of the weather.

GPS is accurate: This is not so much as a myth, but a technical error. While most GPS and navigation systems are accurate to the letter, this will entirely depend on your software. Updated software and apps for that matter will provide an accurate location, but this does not necessarily mean the system is flawed. Proprietary systems work well when the software is updated from time to time.

Additional apps mess up the system: Traditional GPS had only one job, provide location accurately and help navigate through places. Modern-day GPS systems installed in premium automobiles have a bulk of apps installed and integrated with the system, which many people cite as the reason for GPS not working sometimes. Building identifiers, real-time traffic updates, alternative route suggestions are all just useful add-ons in your proprietary system and do not necessarily mess with the signal.

Military GPS versus Civilian GPS: Unlike the myth which is being propagated to mislead people, there is no such thing as military GPS and civilian GPS. Both happen to receive the same signals from orbiting satellites, with the quality and type of equipment used being the only distinguishing factor. The bandwidth is another factor which differentiates these two signals.

One of the most popular manufacturers of GPS and navigation devices is Garmin, both for civilian and military purposes.

It is important to feel safe no matter where we are. Safety is one of the most important factors we check before we go anywhere. Therefore, of all the places, the place we need to feel safest is our own home. To make sure we are safe in our house, we invest in the finest locks and doors. However, at times, that is not enough.

With the increase in the number of robberies and other crimes, it is important to go an extra mile to ensure we remain safe in our personal space. This is where home security systems come into the picture.

There are several companies that manufacture products and offer services that ensure your safety within the four walls of your home. One such home security company is called Arlo, which makes security cameras and alarm systems. Below are some of the top products and services that Arlo offers.

Doorbells
With the help of Arlo Audio Doorbell, you can answer your door from anywhere without any hassle. This doorbell lets you stay connected to the entryway activity by giving you instant alerts. You will also receive calls on the connected device (phone or tablet) when someone rings the doorbell. Additionally, the bell allows visitors to leave messages when you are not home.

Wire-free cameras
Arlo comes with three different wire-free cameras namely, Arlo Pro2, Arlo Pro, and Arlo. These cameras are 100% wire-free and give HD-quality output, night vision, and are weather resistant. Additionally, these cameras have motion sensors and send motion alerts as well.

Mobile cameras
The mobile camera called Arlo Go is 100% wire-free. This camera is rechargeable and has a 2-way audio system with a built-in mic and speaker. The Arlo Go can work with Amazon Alexa, the Google assistant, If This Then That (IFTTT), and Stringify.

Powered cameras
These indoor security cameras provide the best solutions for 24/7 surveillance. There are two models in powered cameras, namely, Arlo Q and Arlo Q Plus. These cameras allow you to view live recordings at any time and send you instant emails or mobile alerts whenever there is a motion or audio detected. You can also share some specific audio and video recordings with your family or friends in case they are missing a family or friends get-together.

Baby cameras
The Arlo Baby camera come with lullabies, night light, and air sensors, making it one of the best choices for baby monitoring purpose. This camera also comes with a smart music player that acts like a lullaby to the baby.

One can get more information on the products that Arlo offers on their official websites. Apart from Arlo™, there are other companies that manufacture home security cameras like Blink, Frontpoint, LiveWatch Security, and more.

All about eBook readers and accessories

An electronic book reader or eBook is an electronic device that you can use for browsing files and documents that are usually referred to as electronic books or eBooks. It is a smart and very helpful device for reader fanatics and the ones that deal with documentation on a daily basis.

They are typically low-glare and have a black and white screen and are not backlit often. When compared to a desktop or even a laptop, eBook readers are usually thin and have comparatively long battery life. Most of the eBooks support all kinds of file document formats such as. dox and pdf etc. eBook reader and accessories manufacturers offer more than what is required in an eBook which makes choosing an eBook even more difficult.

If you are planning to buy an eBook reader and accessories, the following features will help you make the best buy.

Screen type

The screen type in eBook is available in the form of electronic display as well as LCD touchscreen. Choosing a screen type depends on the reader’s requirement and convenience. eBook readers and accessories manufacturers like Amazon, Kobo, Bookeen, and Apple offer screen type in both formats. Make sure you compare screens to pick the best contrast and resolution out of the lot.

Size and weight

With the popularity that eBooks have gained in the recent years, there is a wide variety of sizes that eBook readers and accessories are offered. You can get smaller screen size offered by Kindle, Barnes & Noble. They are light in weight and are easy to carry around. Kindle Fire HDX 8.9, Apple iPad and iPad pro are the ones that are a bit larger in size and a tad bit heavy.

Interface

The interface or controls of eBook reader and accessories are unlike any other smart device. They come with button controls as well as touchscreens. A general rule entails that eBooks with button controls are less cumbersome and require less battery. Touchscreens can be smudge-prone and require more power than the others. Then again, it depends on the manufacturer and the quality of the product.

Formats

The popular formats of an eBook reader include EPUB, PDF, TXT, HTML etc. Make sure that the device you are planning to buy is capable of running these file formats. Check if the eBook reader is open to displaying more formats than its own proprietary formats. For instance, all devices are able to display a document in EPUB format whereas AZW format runs only on Kindle.

Features

If you are planning to buy eBooks and accessories, decide on the factor if you want to buy the eBook only for reading purpose or do you want it loaded with other features as well. Various eBook carry features like music playback as well as web browsing, these eBook readers function almost like a mini-computer.

Internal capacity

The internal capacity of an eBook reader determines the amount of media that can be stored in an eBook. Higher the memory of an eBook reader, higher the number of eBooks and related files can be stored in it. There are eBooks that come with an option of expanding the capacity in the form of external memory with the help of an SD card.

Price of an ebook reader

We come down to the final yet a crucial pointer that plays a deciding factor in selecting the best eBook reader and accessories for some buyers. Some analysts determine that $99 is the average price point of an eBook reader. Although a price tag is not an issue if you are really looking forward to purchasing an eBook reader with maximum features. But if you have a specific budget in mind, compare the prices of the eBook reader across platforms and then make a choice.

Ovens are helpful when you have to cook dinner after a long tiring day since they require lesser effort than standing over a stove. Ovens that come with smart technologies are, therefore, even better for this purpose. The oven making company, Brava, introduced the smart oven that prepares meals faster than a convection oven without compromising on the taste that you prefer. This smart oven by Brava requires no preheating and can be used to prepare multiple types of foods that need to be cooked at different temperatures on the same tray at the same time without using too much energy.

Here is what makes Brava ovens different
Traditional ovens use a lot of energy for heating the air inside and outside its chamber. However, while the oven by Brava uses conduction and convection modes, it focuses on the direct transfer of energy by using six infrared lamps to heat the food instead of the tray or the air around it.

The company also claims that this method of cooking meals is faster than any other method in the world without obstructing the taste. A Brava oven takes only seconds to raise the temperature of its chamber from zero to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. These ovens also use considerably less energy than a convection oven.

How can you use a Brava oven?
There are three different zones on a glass baking sheet that divide the ingredients so each customizable light can cook the food accordingly. Once you have chosen the ingredients from the list or once you have chosen one of the preset recipes, the oven will tell you exactly where you should place your food item.

If you are cooking meat in the oven, then you can use a smart meat thermometer that can be placed inside the center of the meat, which will help you get the desired level of doneness. Therefore, you can expect a restaurant quality meal from the Brava oven.

What more can you expect from Brava oven?
The company offers a meal kit service that does not require a subscription at all. Consumers can thus simply order what they like whenever they want. In addition to this, a smartphone application allows the consumers to control recipes using their smartphone even from afar. Therefore, even when you are at work, you can select a meal, and it will be waiting for you in the oven when you get home.

To learn more about Brava oven, you can peruse their official website carefully. Additionally, apart from Brava, you can also check other over companies like Whirlpool, Bosch, Viking, and the like.

Must have camera and photo accessories for professionals

Professional photography is a good way to make those few extra bucks, even if you are a part-time photographer. Metro cities and bustling urban areas will have a number of events to be covered by professional photographers. The advent of social media and image sharing websites has also increased the demand for camera and photo technicians and freelance photographers to cover live events, wedding receptions, sporting events and even house parties so that people have great images at the end of the day to share on social media.

Professional camera and photo technicians will want to work with the best equipment out there which is why it is imperative to understand the need for these camera essentials. Every photographer must have these accessories as part of their camera and photo kit.

Professional grade camera: These cameras are high end and can be very expensive, with some of the most popular models made by top brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony among many others. Nikon D850, Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, Nikon D810, Canon EOS 5DS, Nikon D750, Nikon D5, Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, Sony Alpha A99 II, Canon EOS 6D Mark II are among some of the best high makes and models when it comes to a professional grade camera and photo equipment.

Professional grade lenses: Professional photographers will have a need for the various type of lenses suited for different uses and purposes. Some of the popular ones include Sigma 18-35mm f1.8, Sigma 50mm f1.4, Sigma 150-600mm, f5-6.3, Zeiss Otus 85mm f1.4, Sigma 24-105mm f4, Sigma 18-200mm f3.5 macro among many others. Just having a professional grade camera will not work, if you don’t have the best lenses to use with the kit.

Tripod: You have bought a camera and a couple of lenses, great! However, it will be quite difficult to manage heavy professional grade cameras especially when you want to capture fast moving and long distance objects with precision, clarity, and focus. This is where a tripod comes handy because it provides all the stable support you will need even on rough terrains. The weight of the equipment also gets distributed evenly which is why investing in a good quality camera and photo tripod is recommended. Vanguard Alta Pro, Gitzo GK, Bonofoto B6, Joby GorillaPod, Vanguard VEO, Manfrotto, Globetrotter are just some of the best tripod accessory brands when it comes to premium quality camera and photo accessories.

External flash: No camera is complete without an external flash or Speedlite. This is especially the case for professional grade cameras since this particular accessory will allow photography in low and dim lighting conditions. Popular Speedlights for premium purchases include Canon Speedlite 600, Yongnuo YN wireless flash, Canon Speedlight 430EX, Nikon SB AF Speedlight, Sony high power flash among many others available online.

White balance cards: White balance is essential for professional grade cameras from time to time to achieve true color images since all colors are made out of mixing the three primaries red, green, and blue. The perfect composition of RGB is what professional photographers are looking for since the picture quality will depend on proper lighting, white balance, and composition at the end of the day.

Wireless memory cards: Eye-Fi brand has innovative solutions for professional camera and photo technicians with their WiFi enabled wireless memory card to upload photos directly from the camera to your computer automatically once it has been set up and synched.

Camera bag: Last but not the least, you will be needing a supreme quality camera bag to keep your DSLR, all the lenses, memory cards, UV filters, extra batteries, battery charger and everything you need for a professional shoot.

6 top brands for home audio systems

Music is an important factor of our lives. Good sound quality is what enhances the musical experience for you. Good quality speakers are a must have for all of us; the music is not the same when it is played on average quality speakers. But it is essential to not get carried away and make an impulsive purchase when it comes to speakers. It is usually a one-time investment and needs to be bought with care. Make sure you do a complete research before you go ahead and make a purchase for your speakers. Read along to find out the top brands for your home audio system:

• Polk home audio speakers
  Polk is not a brand that is heard of among most consumers and buyers, but that does not rule out the amazing quality that is provided by its speakers. Even if they are lacking a little on the popularity quotient, the quality of their home audio systems is impeccable and cannot be challenged by many brands in the market. If you are looking for a good quality home audio system set and are running on a low budget, then this is a good option for you.
• Paradigm cinema
  This is not a very well known brand in this industry, but what is in the name anyway. The company is working towards making a name for themselves with the quality of speaker they are offering in the market. As a brand, they are looking to widen the customer base as they already have great quality speakers all they need is recognition. If you are looking to buy a new home audio system, you must consider this brand.
• Onkyo HT
  This is a Japanese company that has one of the best home audio systems in the country right now. They make speakers that are ideal for closer rooms, with a receiver, subwoofer as well as a set of speakers that you can also place around the room for a surround sound feel. The brand has speakers with more than one input, so you can connect different types of devices to the home audio system.
• Energy
  The name of this brand of speakers is based on the personality and performance of the product that is made by this brand. The energy in these speakers enables them to produce sound that is both powerful as well as clear. The speakers in this set are tuned to produce music that is loud as well as distortion free to a great extent.
• Sonos
  Everyone loves music that is full of clarity and covers every single lyric to guitar strum from the piece of music. Sonos as a brand, targets this requirement and makes speakers that will expose you to clear, distortion free music. The speakers are designed with perfect synchronization that enables them to produce more music than noise.
• Orb Audio
  Orb audio is the number one home audio system brand in the world right now and it has reached that point with regards to its outstanding music quality in closed rooms as well as its modular design that helps in enhancing the looks of your room. The quality of the speakers is enhanced as they filter out the distortion from the music, the compact design prevents them from taking up a lot of space in your room.

The above list has almost all the brands that are known for their exceptional quality of home audio systems all over the world. If you are indecisive, then you can go ahead and choose from any of these brands.