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  13. <title>Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</title>
  14. <atom:link href="https://terrywhite.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
  15. <link>https://terrywhite.com/</link>
  16. <description>Welcome to my technology blog!</description>
  17. <lastBuildDate>Fri, 08 Mar 2024 22:46:40 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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  25. <title>NEW Adobe Express Mobile (Beta) is Here and it&#8217;s FREE!</title>
  26. <link>https://terrywhite.com/new-adobe-express-mobile-beta-is-here-and-its-free/</link>
  27. <comments>https://terrywhite.com/new-adobe-express-mobile-beta-is-here-and-its-free/#respond</comments>
  28. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  29. <pubDate>Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:46:19 +0000</pubDate>
  30. <category><![CDATA[Adobe]]></category>
  31. <category><![CDATA[Adobe Express]]></category>
  32. <category><![CDATA[Public Beta]]></category>
  33. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18650</guid>
  34.  
  35. <description><![CDATA[<p>I create social posts and videos several times a week to share with my community. Most of the time, I need to create that content while I&#8217;m on the go &#8230; </p>
  36. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/new-adobe-express-mobile-beta-is-here-and-its-free/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "NEW Adobe Express Mobile (Beta) is Here and it&#8217;s FREE!"</span></a></p>
  37. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/new-adobe-express-mobile-beta-is-here-and-its-free/">NEW Adobe Express Mobile (Beta) is Here and it&#8217;s FREE!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  38. ]]></description>
  39. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  40. <p>I create social posts and videos several times a week to share with my community. Most of the time, I need to create that content while I&#8217;m on the go and in the moment, which means that I want to do it on my phone. Last year, Adobe completely <a href="https://new.express.adobe.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">revamped Adobe Express</a> on the web with a modern interface that offered several new features. However, the mobile app was still based on the old platform. </p>
  41.  
  42.  
  43.  
  44. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-that-all-changes-today">That all changes today! </h2>
  45.  
  46.  
  47.  
  48. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  49. <iframe class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W85b1J1-iww?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  50. </div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Here&#8217;s a <a href="https://youtu.be/W85b1J1-iww">walk-through of the new beta</a></figcaption></figure>
  51.  
  52.  
  53.  
  54. <span id="more-18650"></span>
  55.  
  56.  
  57.  
  58. <p>Let&#8217;s welcome the NEW Adobe Express Mobile (Beta). You can now create and edit your social posts, taking advantage of thousands of professionally designed templates, stock content, and edit videos. You can also use the latest Adobe Firefly-powered generative AI to create images from scratch and edit your existing photos to add or remove elements. Quick actions are available to remove the background from your photos, generate QR codes, and even captions for your videos. </p>
  59.  
  60.  
  61.  
  62. <p><a href="https://adobesparkpost-web.app.link/e/mobilepublicbeta" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the NEW Adobe Express Beta here</a></p>
  63.  
  64.  
  65.  
  66. <p>Here are some of my personal favorite features of the Express Mobile Beta:</p>
  67.  
  68.  
  69.  
  70. <ul>
  71. <li>Thousands of beautifully designed templates</li>
  72.  
  73.  
  74.  
  75. <li>Access to my custom Brands</li>
  76.  
  77.  
  78.  
  79. <li>Video Editing and Animations</li>
  80.  
  81.  
  82.  
  83. <li>Text to Image</li>
  84.  
  85.  
  86.  
  87. <li>Remove or Insert Objects</li>
  88.  
  89.  
  90.  
  91. <li>Caption Video</li>
  92.  
  93.  
  94.  
  95. <li>Remove Backgrounds from Photos AND Videos</li>
  96.  
  97.  
  98.  
  99. <li>Content Scheduling</li>
  100.  
  101.  
  102.  
  103. <li>Sharing directly to TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and More</li>
  104.  
  105.  
  106.  
  107. <li>Resizing for multiple platforms</li>
  108.  
  109.  
  110.  
  111. <li>Live collaboration</li>
  112.  
  113.  
  114.  
  115. <li>And so much more</li>
  116. </ul>
  117.  
  118.  
  119.  
  120. <p>If you want to discuss the beta and give feedback,<a href="https://discord.com/invite/adobeexpress" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> join our Discord</a>.</p>
  121.  
  122.  
  123.  
  124. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-also-check-out-my-free-class-on-adobe-express-here">Also, check out my FREE class on Adobe Express here:</h2>
  125.  
  126.  
  127.  
  128. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  129. <iframe class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/742e8cZyaYw?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  130. </div></figure>
  131.  
  132.  
  133.  
  134. <p> </p>
  135. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/new-adobe-express-mobile-beta-is-here-and-its-free/">NEW Adobe Express Mobile (Beta) is Here and it&#8217;s FREE!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  136. ]]></content:encoded>
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  138. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  139. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18650</post-id> </item>
  140. <item>
  141. <title>Sky-High Productivity: Why Apple Vision Pro Transforms Air Travel Into My Ultimate Workspace</title>
  142. <link>https://terrywhite.com/sky-high-productivity-why-apple-vision-pro-transforms-air-travel-into-my-ultimate-workspace/</link>
  143. <comments>https://terrywhite.com/sky-high-productivity-why-apple-vision-pro-transforms-air-travel-into-my-ultimate-workspace/#respond</comments>
  144. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  145. <pubDate>Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  146. <category><![CDATA[Apple Vision Pro]]></category>
  147. <category><![CDATA[MacBook Pro]]></category>
  148. <category><![CDATA[Road Warrior]]></category>
  149. <category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
  150. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18632</guid>
  151.  
  152. <description><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;m usually an early adopter regarding tech, especially new devices in a new or existing category. I love gadgets and tech, and I&#8217;m not afraid of change. I ordered an &#8230; </p>
  153. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/sky-high-productivity-why-apple-vision-pro-transforms-air-travel-into-my-ultimate-workspace/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Sky-High Productivity: Why Apple Vision Pro Transforms Air Travel Into My Ultimate Workspace"</span></a></p>
  154. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/sky-high-productivity-why-apple-vision-pro-transforms-air-travel-into-my-ultimate-workspace/">Sky-High Productivity: Why Apple Vision Pro Transforms Air Travel Into My Ultimate Workspace</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  155. ]]></description>
  156. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  157. <p>I&#8217;m usually an early adopter regarding tech, especially new devices in a new or existing category. I love gadgets and tech, and I&#8217;m not afraid of change. I ordered an <a href="https://www.apple.com/apple-vision-pro/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Vision Pro</a> on day one. <a href="https://terrywhite.com/apple-vision-pro-my-honest-review/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Here&#8217;s my initial review for reference</a>. When I did my initial review, I had not taken Apple Vision Pro on the road yet.</p>
  158.  
  159.  
  160.  
  161. <p>Recently, I had a business trip to LA and back. This is a five-hour flight from Atlanta. I usually use the time on flights to get some writing done, plus a movie or two. Working on a plane can definitely present a couple of challenges. The first is when the person in front of you leans their seat back, making it harder to open your laptop to a comfortable viewing angle. The second challenge is keeping the prying eyes of your seatmates off your work. Some privacy screens make it harder to view your screen from an angle, but I haven&#8217;t used one in years. </p>
  162.  
  163.  
  164.  
  165. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apple-vision-pro-elevates-in-flight-productivity-to-new-heights">Apple Vision Pro Elevates In-Flight Productivity to New Heights</h2>
  166.  
  167.  
  168.  
  169. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MS-Word-Mac-AppleVisionPro.jpg" alt="Apple Vision Pro with Mac Virtual Display" class="wp-image-18634"/></figure>
  170.  
  171.  
  172.  
  173. <span id="more-18632"></span>
  174.  
  175.  
  176.  
  177. <p>I knew watching movies in Apple Vision Pro on a plane would be amazing, but I hadn&#8217;t considered how great it would be to get real work done.</p>
  178.  
  179.  
  180.  
  181. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="423" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AVP-travel-mode.jpg" alt="Travel Mode" class="wp-image-18639"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travel Mode on Apple Vision Pro</figcaption></figure>
  182.  
  183.  
  184.  
  185. <p>Vision Pro has a &#8220;Travel Mode,&#8221; which is a must when on a plane. Travel Mode is different from Airplane Mode (which it also has). Travel Mode disables the gyros that would think you&#8217;re moving when you&#8217;re in a moving vehicle. It even knew that I was likely in a plane or vehicle and suggested that I turn it on. Once I enabled Travel Mode everything settled down and was very stable like it is when you&#8217;re just sitting still. </p>
  186.  
  187.  
  188.  
  189. <p>Spatial computing is here! While it&#8217;s great that I could use the native apps on Vision OS to get work done, especially since there is a native version of Word, my MacBook Pro has everything I need to work. Not to mention, it has a built-in keyboard. While I can use a Bluetooth keyboard with Apple Vision Pro, bringing one on this trip didn&#8217;t make sense since I needed my MacBook Pro for my work once I got to LA. </p>
  190.  
  191.  
  192.  
  193. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apple-vision-pro-has-a-mac-virtual-display-feature-built-in">Apple Vision Pro has a Mac Virtual Display feature built-in</h2>
  194.  
  195.  
  196.  
  197. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="478" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AppleVisionPro-MacVirtualDisplay.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18637"/></figure>
  198.  
  199.  
  200.  
  201. <p>With Mac Virtual Display, you can mirror your Mac&#8217;s main display into a beautiful 4K resolution widescreen display in Apple Vision Pro, and the best part is that the Mac&#8217;s display goes black while you&#8217;re doing this to keep prying eyes off your work/content. </p>
  202.  
  203.  
  204.  
  205. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AppleVisionPro-multiple-windows-plane.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18635"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My MacBook Pro running Photoshop in the middle, Apple Vision Pro notes app on the left, and Safari on the right</figcaption></figure>
  206.  
  207.  
  208.  
  209. <p>I&#8217;m still using the MacBook Pro&#8217;s keyboard and trackpad, but I&#8217;m looking at a big, beautiful display instead of the one on the tray table. Not only is this display bigger, but I can position it anywhere I want in the virtual space, make it as large as I want, and have other Vision Pro apps open and positioned around it as needed.</p>
  210.  
  211.  
  212.  
  213. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MacVirtualDisplay-AVP-MacOff.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18642"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While you&#8217;re in Mac Virtual Display, the Mac&#8217;s main display goes dark, and you&#8217;re using its keyboard and trackpad. No one can see what you&#8217;re working on.</figcaption></figure>
  214.  
  215.  
  216.  
  217. <p>If you have a&nbsp;<a href="https://support.apple.com/116943">Mac with Apple silicon</a>, it can appear in Apple Vision Pro at resolutions up to 4K. If your Mac has an Intel processor, it can appear at resolutions up to 3K.</p>
  218.  
  219.  
  220.  
  221. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-i-was-in-my-own-world">I was in my own world</h2>
  222.  
  223.  
  224.  
  225. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AppleVisionPro-Environment-plane.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18636"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The same windows open as above, but now with an environment turned up/on so that I don&#8217;t see the real world unless a person/flight attendant walks up to me.</figcaption></figure>
  226.  
  227.  
  228.  
  229. <p>I got more work done on these two flights than I ever had before. I could focus even more if I wanted by turning up the virtual environment to block out distractions of people walking up and down the aisles, as well as the kid next to me who was, umm, very active during the whole flight. </p>
  230.  
  231.  
  232.  
  233. <p>It wasn&#8217;t all about work. I wanted to watch a 3D movie while I worked two. I positioned the movie window below my Mac&#8217;s virtual screen so I could look straight ahead at what I was working on and glance down at the movie when I wanted.</p>
  234.  
  235.  
  236.  
  237. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-was-battery-life">How was battery life?</h2>
  238.  
  239.  
  240.  
  241. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="420" height="529" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AnkerPowerbank.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18638"/></figure>
  242.  
  243.  
  244.  
  245. <p>Knowing that the Apple Vision Pro battery is rated to last 2-2.5 hours, I knew that I would run out mid-flight no matter what. Therefore, I plugged it into <a href="https://amzn.to/49D4wMq" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">my new Anker Powerbank</a> which kept the Apple Vision Pro and my iPhone 15 Pro topped off the entire flight. I could have also plugged my MacBook Pro into the power bank if needed. The Anker Powerbank was at 40% when I landed. </p>
  246.  
  247.  
  248.  
  249. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-wifi-no-problem">No WiFi, No Problem</h2>
  250.  
  251.  
  252.  
  253. <p>The morning of my flight out of Atlanta, I got an email from Delta informing me that there would be no WiFi on this flight due to an equipment problem. This was also the morning of the big AT&amp;T outage. When I boarded the plane, I had no WiFi and no cellular service either. Luckily the AT&amp;T data came back before we took off and I was able to send/recieve a few emails before going into Airplane Mode.</p>
  254.  
  255.  
  256.  
  257. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="362" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/AVP-downloaded-movies.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18641"/></figure>
  258.  
  259.  
  260.  
  261. <p>Apple Vision Pro has WiFi, but the WiFi on this first flight wasn&#8217;t working. Knowing this could always be an issue, I downloaded a few of my favorite movies to Vision Pro before leaving the house.  I had no problem playing these movies during the flight. Normally I would do my blog posts right in the WordPress site, but since I had no WiFi I just typed them in Word on my MacBook to upload later.</p>
  262.  
  263.  
  264.  
  265. <p>On my return flight, I had WiFi and was able to work directly on my various online sites without incident. </p>
  266.  
  267.  
  268.  
  269. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-was-it-wearing-apple-vision-pro-for-five-hours-at-a-time">How was it wearing Apple Vision Pro for five hours at a time</h2>
  270.  
  271.  
  272.  
  273. <p>I must say that on the first flight, I forgot I had it on. I had no eye fatigue and was almost giddy at how amazing it was to have these giant displays in front of me. I used my AirPods Pro for spatial audio, which worked great with Vision Pro. </p>
  274.  
  275.  
  276.  
  277. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bottom-line">The Bottom Line</h2>
  278.  
  279.  
  280.  
  281. <p>While I enjoy consuming and creating content on Apple Vision Pro from my favorite chair at home, I think my favorite new use case is air travel. I didn&#8217;t even bother bringing my iPad Pro because I knew I would use the Apple Vision Pro for all the things I used to use the iPad for on a flight. </p>
  282. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/sky-high-productivity-why-apple-vision-pro-transforms-air-travel-into-my-ultimate-workspace/">Sky-High Productivity: Why Apple Vision Pro Transforms Air Travel Into My Ultimate Workspace</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  283. ]]></content:encoded>
  284. <wfw:commentRss>https://terrywhite.com/sky-high-productivity-why-apple-vision-pro-transforms-air-travel-into-my-ultimate-workspace/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  285. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  286. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18632</post-id> </item>
  287. <item>
  288. <title>I switched my WiFi network to Unifi a year ago! How’s it going?</title>
  289. <link>https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-my-wifi-network-to-unifi-a-year-ago-hows-it-going/</link>
  290. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  291. <pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:37:44 +0000</pubDate>
  292. <category><![CDATA[Internet]]></category>
  293. <category><![CDATA[Networking]]></category>
  294. <category><![CDATA[Wi-Fi]]></category>
  295. <category><![CDATA[Ethernet]]></category>
  296. <category><![CDATA[Ubiquti]]></category>
  297. <category><![CDATA[Unifi]]></category>
  298. <category><![CDATA[WiFi 6E]]></category>
  299. <category><![CDATA[WiFi 7]]></category>
  300. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18608</guid>
  301.  
  302. <description><![CDATA[<p>Time flies when you’re no longer troubleshooting your WiFi. Last February I made the decision to upgrade away from my Linksys Velop WiFi system and take the advice of so &#8230; </p>
  303. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-my-wifi-network-to-unifi-a-year-ago-hows-it-going/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "I switched my WiFi network to Unifi a year ago! How’s it going?"</span></a></p>
  304. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-my-wifi-network-to-unifi-a-year-ago-hows-it-going/">I switched my WiFi network to Unifi a year ago! How’s it going?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  305. ]]></description>
  306. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  307. <p>Time flies when you’re no longer troubleshooting your WiFi. <a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Last February I made the decision to upgrade away from my Linksys Velop WiFi system</a> and take the advice of so many, and move over to Unifi from Ubiquiti. At the time, I came to grips with the fact that I had outgrown consumer networking equipment and needed something more robust and could handle the sheer number of devices I had in my home. My switch to <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi</a> solved all my networking issues, and honestly, I’m back to not thinking about it anymore (as it should be).&nbsp;</p>
  308.  
  309.  
  310.  
  311. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unifi-is-like-a-drug">Unifi is like a drug</h2>
  312.  
  313.  
  314.  
  315. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="487" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Unifi-gear-list.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18627"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Although I started with just the Dream Machine Special Edition, U6 Enterprise and U6 LR Access Points, I have added a significant amount of new switches and access points since last February.</figcaption></figure>
  316.  
  317.  
  318.  
  319. <p>Like anything that works and makes life easier, you tend to want more of it. While my initial investment in a <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Dream Machine SE</a> (router) and two <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Access Points</a> solved all my WiFi woes, I couldn’t stop there. I started looking at everything that made up my network and wondering if replacing those items would be even better.</p>
  320.  
  321.  
  322.  
  323. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-i-switched-over-to-all-unifi-switches">I switched over to all Unifi switches</h2>
  324.  
  325.  
  326.  
  327. <span id="more-18608"></span>
  328.  
  329.  
  330.  
  331. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="297" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Unifi-16-Port-SwitchLite-ports.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18614"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of the first switches I got was the 16 Port Lite. Each switch has port management to see what&#8217;s plugged in and what speed it&#8217;s getting and control which VLAN it connects to for security.</figcaption></figure>
  332.  
  333.  
  334.  
  335. <p>A network switch allows you to plug in multiple Ethernet-connected devices to share the single internet connection coming into a room. I had six dumb (unmanaged) switches from different manufacturers, such as TP-Link, Netgear, and Trendnet. While they worked just fine, I couldn’t manage them from a central interface to see what was connected to them and how those devices were performing. For the average home user, this is not a concern. You plug something in, and it either works or doesn’t; if it does, you forget about it. However, once I saw how nice it was to be able to see the devices connected to each port on the Dream Machine SE in their web UI, I had to have more of that! One by one, I ended up replacing all my Ethernet switches with <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi</a> ones. I LOVE IT! I love being able to manage everything from one interface.&nbsp;</p>
  336.  
  337.  
  338.  
  339. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-please-give-me-the-speeds-i-m-paying-for">Please give me the speeds I’m paying for! </h2>
  340.  
  341.  
  342.  
  343. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="421" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/iPhone15Pro-WiFi6E-SpeedTest.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18616"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">iPhone 15 Pro speedtest on WiFi 6E! I never came close to these WiFi speeds with my old gear router.</figcaption></figure>
  344.  
  345.  
  346.  
  347. <p>My current internet provider is Xfinity, and my plan is for 1,200mbps down/35mbps up. The problem is that you’ll never see that 1,200mbps down if your network and WiFi devices are capped at 1GB Ethernet. Since I was already replacing my switches, I figured this was also a good time to upgrade to faster ones too. I ended up getting a few of their 10GBe switches and a couple of the new 2.5GBe Enterprise switches. This allowed me to have 2.5GB Ethernet in each room for computers and 10GB Ethernet for my <a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-to-store-and-backup-your-photos-like-a-pro/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Synology DS 1522+ NAS</a>, as well as our Apple Studio, which has 10GB Ethernet built-in.</p>
  348.  
  349.  
  350.  
  351. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="592" height="1000" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/synology10GbEspeedtest-592x1000.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18617" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/synology10GbEspeedtest-592x1000.png 592w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/synology10GbEspeedtest-385x650.png 385w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/synology10GbEspeedtest.png 606w" sizes="(max-width: 592px) 100vw, 592px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Three different speed tests copying from and to the Synology over 1GbE, 2.5GbE and 10GbE. You can see a significant speed boost using 2.5 GbE and 10GbE</figcaption></figure>
  352.  
  353.  
  354.  
  355. <p>I already had one <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Enterprise WiFi 6E access point</a>, and I ended up getting their in-wall WiFi 6E access point as well as their new <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi WiFi 7 Pro access point</a>. Each of these has a 2.5GB Ethernet port to enable faster WiFi 6E and 7 speeds. This has paid off big time on my iPad Pros and new iPhone 15 Pros, which all have WiFi 6E. My next MacBook Pro will have either WiFi 6E or 7 as well. While 1,200mbps really isn’t that much faster than 1,000mbps (1GB ethernet speeds), I’m planning for the future when I’ll have faster internet, and in the meantime, transferring files on my network just got a whole lot faster!</p>
  356.  
  357.  
  358.  
  359. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="397" height="207" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2.5GBe-SpeedTest.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18625"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Speedtest from my MacBook Pro connected to a Unifi 10GbE Switch using my <a href="https://amzn.to/48AZ77g" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HyperDrive ThunderBolt 4 Dock</a>.</figcaption></figure>
  360.  
  361.  
  362.  
  363. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fiber-internet-is-being-deployed">Fiber internet is being deployed!</h2>
  364.  
  365.  
  366.  
  367. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Fiber-deploy.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18618"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I was so happy to see the trucks out working on the Fiber Internet deployment in my neighborhood</figcaption></figure>
  368.  
  369.  
  370.  
  371. <p>Hopefully, within the next month or two, I’ll be able to sign up for Fiber Internet, which is finally being deployed in my neighborhood. I plan to sign up for their 2GB down/up plan. This is another reason I started upgrading my switches and access points. Having faster internet speeds won’t matter if your network gear is capped at 1GB. I’m all set to take advantage of those 2GB internet speeds. I upload a lot of big content, such as 4K videos to YouTube. Having a faster upload speed is music to my ears.&nbsp;</p>
  372.  
  373.  
  374.  
  375. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-i-replaced-all-of-my-home-security-cameras">I replaced all of my home security cameras</h2>
  376.  
  377.  
  378.  
  379. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5_bullet_front_porch.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18380"/></figure>
  380.  
  381.  
  382.  
  383. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">I blogged about that here</a>. Once I saw how well the network stuff worked, I wanted more. I decided that it was time to bite the bullet and replace the various different cameras I had from Ring, Google, Eufy, and Logitech with Unifi Protect cameras, including my new Unifi Pro G4 Doorbell and digital chime. By investing in a <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite">Unifi NVR</a> that gave me the biggest advantage in that I would no longer have to pay for subscriptions from Google. All of my footage is recorded and stored locally 24/7. This also reduces internet bandwidth. It all just works. I LOVE IT!</p>
  384.  
  385.  
  386.  
  387. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="390" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Protect-on-ATV.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18388"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi has a GREAT Apple TV app to see all fo your cameras at a glance!</figcaption></figure>
  388.  
  389.  
  390.  
  391. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lte-backup-keeps-me-up-and-running">The LTE Backup Keeps Me Up and Running</h2>
  392.  
  393.  
  394.  
  395. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Unifi-LTE.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18622"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi LTE Backup automatically kicks in and provides internet to your network if your main internet goes down. Once your primary internet is restored, the LTE Backup disconnects.</figcaption></figure>
  396.  
  397.  
  398.  
  399. <p>A few months back, I was in an important online meeting, and I was being introduced. right in the middle of the introduction, I noticed the person who was talking just froze. I wondered if something had happened on their end. It turns out that right at that moment, my Xfinity internet went out. Luckily, I thought quickly, joined the meeting from my iPhone, and was able to present my part. However, this really shook me, and I knew that I needed a backup of some kind. Unfortunately, for now, the only viable internet provider in my area is Xfinity. Fiber Internet can&#8217;t arrive fast enough. In the meantime, I opted to get the Unifi LTE Backup. This cool little device plugs into the network, and if the main internet goes down, it switches over to AT&amp;T LTE wireless internet automatically. The transition is seamless, and the entire network stays up and running. Granted, it&#8217;s a slower speed, and I would love it if they brought out a 5G version, but for now, it&#8217;s fine and has already paid for itself on a couple of occasions. When I can get Fiber Internet, the Xfinity service will become my backup as the Unifi Dream Machine SE has two WAN ports so that you can have a primary and backup internet service. </p>
  400.  
  401.  
  402.  
  403. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-a-new-cable-modem-too">What! A new cable modem too?</h2>
  404.  
  405.  
  406.  
  407. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="506" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Unifi-CableModem.jpg" alt="Unifi Cable Modem
  408. " class="wp-image-18619"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi Cable Modem in the rack below my Unifi Dream Machine SE (router)</figcaption></figure>
  409.  
  410.  
  411.  
  412. <p>Recently, <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi</a> released a Cable Modem. I already had my own cable modem from Motorola that was working just fine. There wasn’t much of an advantage in going with Unifi’s cable modem other than managing it in the same user interface as all the other Unifi gear and being able to rack mount it.</p>
  413.  
  414.  
  415.  
  416. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bonus-tip">Bonus Tip:</h2>
  417.  
  418.  
  419.  
  420. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="609" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/flat-ethernet-cable.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18626"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">These flat CAT 6 Ethernet cables are great for hiding ethernet cables along the wall under the baseboard. </figcaption></figure>
  421.  
  422.  
  423.  
  424. <p>I have been using these inexpensive flat CAT 6 Ethernet cables more often and have yet to have one fail or let me down. <a href="https://amzn.to/49tVoK6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">You can check them out here</a>.</p>
  425.  
  426.  
  427.  
  428. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bottom-line">The Bottom Line</h2>
  429.  
  430.  
  431.  
  432. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="678" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/servercloset-2024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18621" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/servercloset-2024.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/servercloset-2024-623x650.jpg 623w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This is the bulk of my network equipment in my server closet. I hope to consolidate everything to this one location once Fiber is installed. Currently, I don&#8217;t have a coax cable run to this location for the cable modem, which is why the Dream Machine SE is in a separate location.</figcaption></figure>
  433.  
  434.  
  435.  
  436. <p>Am I happy with my switch to <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi</a>? <strong>ABSOLUTELY</strong>! Have I bought more than I actually “needed”? Yup! Does it bring me pure joy? Yes, everything I don’t have to think about my network which is never! Is Unifi perfect? Absolutely NOT. I had one switch just flat-out die. It was replaced under warranty with no issues. I wish they offered an advance replacement program so I could give them a credit card, and they would overnight the replacement. I’m actually shocked that they don’t offer this. Do they make the best networking gear I’ve ever used? Without a doubt! Would I have done anything differently if I had it to do over again? Yes, I would have opted for the better Enterprise 24 port POE switch with some 2.5GBe ports instead of the one I got, which only has 1GBe ports. I probably would have also got a second U6 Enterprise Access Point instead of the U6 Long Range Pro. I say this because the U6 LR Pro doesn’t have WiFi 6E support. At this point, I don’t want any access points that can’t do WiFi 6E or WiFi 7. I ended up putting the U6 LR Pro out on the front porch to handle the doorbell, front door lock, and other devices that are near the front of the house that don’t require WiFi 6E speeds. Do I have any regrets? Yes, I wish I had made the switch two years sooner. I wasted a lot of time and effort trying to solve my problems with gear that wasn’t designed to handle the workload. I could have saved that time had I just listened to everyone telling me that Unifi was the way to go.&nbsp;</p>
  437.  
  438.  
  439.  
  440. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read about my initial switch to Unifi here</a>.</p>
  441.  
  442.  
  443.  
  444. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-to-store-and-backup-your-photos-like-a-pro/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read about my upgrade from Drobo to Synology NAS here</a>.</p>
  445.  
  446.  
  447.  
  448. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read about my dumping all my other cameras for Unifi Protect Cameras here.</a></p>
  449. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-my-wifi-network-to-unifi-a-year-ago-hows-it-going/">I switched my WiFi network to Unifi a year ago! How’s it going?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  450. ]]></content:encoded>
  451. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18608</post-id> </item>
  452. <item>
  453. <title>I’m now officially a cord cutter, too</title>
  454. <link>https://terrywhite.com/im-now-officially-a-cord-cutter-too/</link>
  455. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  456. <pubDate>Fri, 23 Feb 2024 19:23:15 +0000</pubDate>
  457. <category><![CDATA[Apple TV]]></category>
  458. <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
  459. <category><![CDATA[Road Warrior]]></category>
  460. <category><![CDATA[TiVo]]></category>
  461. <category><![CDATA[Cord Cutting]]></category>
  462. <category><![CDATA[Streaming]]></category>
  463. <category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
  464. <category><![CDATA[YouTube TV]]></category>
  465. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18593</guid>
  466.  
  467. <description><![CDATA[<p>People have been cutting the cord from their cable TV provider for years. With the explosion of smart TVs and streaming services, it’s pretty easy to get by with just &#8230; </p>
  468. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/im-now-officially-a-cord-cutter-too/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "I’m now officially a cord cutter, too"</span></a></p>
  469. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/im-now-officially-a-cord-cutter-too/">I’m now officially a cord cutter, too</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  470. ]]></description>
  471. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  472. <p>People have been cutting the cord from their cable TV provider for years. With the explosion of smart TVs and streaming services, it’s pretty easy to get by with just internet service and stream the content you want on your TV. I’m late to the game, but earlier this year, I finally decided that I no longer needed and barely watched Cable TV anymore. </p>
  473.  
  474.  
  475.  
  476. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">There are multiple ways to cut the cord</h2>
  477.  
  478.  
  479.  
  480. <p>Some people opt for a digital antenna to pull in their local channels. Others forgo having local channels, and people like me who still want to have local channels but don’t need them from their cable providers go with a different streaming service that offers local channels.&nbsp;</p>
  481.  
  482.  
  483.  
  484. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">YouTube TV was the one I chose</h2>
  485.  
  486.  
  487.  
  488. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/YouTubeTV-Live.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18600"/></figure>
  489.  
  490.  
  491.  
  492. <p>I figured YouTube has been in the video streaming business for decades, and if anyone could get streaming TV right, it would be them. They didn’t disappoint. I signed up for the trial, which lasts 21 days. I initially planned to go through the whole trial before dropping my Xfinity TV. I ended up canceling Xfinity TV the next day. I saw no reason that I would need to go through the whole trial period.&nbsp;</p>
  493.  
  494.  
  495.  
  496. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Calling to cancel your existing service can be a lot of pressure</h2>
  497.  
  498.  
  499.  
  500. <span id="more-18593"></span>
  501.  
  502.  
  503.  
  504. <p>Have you ever noticed how easy it is to sign up for a subscription online, but they force you to call to cancel it? There’s a reason for that. They don’t want to see you go. Their reps are trained to try to overcome your reasons for leaving, including offering you discounts and other perks to keep you. This is why most people think twice about cancelling because they don’t want to go through the hassle and sales pitch.&nbsp;</p>
  505.  
  506.  
  507.  
  508. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">I figured out the perfect way to cancel any service, and they can’t argue with my reason!</h2>
  509.  
  510.  
  511.  
  512. <p>When I went to cancel Xfinity TV, they wanted to know why, and simply saying that I found a cheaper service wouldn’t have been enough. They would have tried to counter and offer discounts with a signed contract, etc.</p>
  513.  
  514.  
  515.  
  516. <p>Whenever I want to cancel a subscription, I tell the rep, “My wife just got a job at the competing company (in this case, YouTube), and we now get TV for free!” No matter what, they can’t argue with FREE, and that ends the sales pitch.&nbsp;</p>
  517.  
  518.  
  519.  
  520. <p>Not only did the Xfinity rep offer no more resistance, she even gave me a sweet deal on my internet service (which I would keep anyway), if I signed up for a year commitment. A win-win! I was able to go with the less expensive YouTube TV AND get a better price on my existing cable internet.&nbsp;</p>
  521.  
  522.  
  523.  
  524. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How much cheaper is YouTube TV?</h2>
  525.  
  526.  
  527.  
  528. <p>Prior to the recent price hike from Xfinity, their cable TV prices weren’t bad, especially if you don’t need every channel that they offer. I probably could have just cut back on my channels and maybe even come in cheaper than YouTube TV, but there were other factors and costs in my case.&nbsp;</p>
  529.  
  530.  
  531.  
  532. <p>I love TiVo and was still using TiVo DVRs. TiVo is a 3rd party DVR company that sells DVRs that are typically better than the ones from the cable company and offer features like automatic commercial skip (which I will miss). The problem is that even after you buy their hardware, you still have to pay monthly or annually for their service if you don’t opt for a one-time lifetime fee. I tried the lifetime fee once and regretted it because it’s tied to the equipment. If you upgrade to a newer TiVo, then you start all over again with needing to subscribe to their service. So not only was I paying for Xfinity TV, but I was also paying for TiVo service on two of their DVRs.&nbsp;</p>
  533.  
  534.  
  535.  
  536. <p>When I factor in the savings on not paying TiVo anymore then YouTube TV actually was an even sweeter deal.</p>
  537.  
  538.  
  539.  
  540. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Build your package with what you want</h2>
  541.  
  542.  
  543.  
  544. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="351" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/YouTubeTV-prices.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18595"/></figure>
  545.  
  546.  
  547.  
  548. <p>I rarely ever watch sports. I was happy to see that, unlike Xfinity, there was no new “regional sports fee” that you can’t opt out of. They do offer sports packages like NFL Sunday Ticket for those who want them, but they are optional. All my local channels were included.</p>
  549.  
  550.  
  551.  
  552. <p>Oddly they charge an extra $4.99/month if you want their 4K package. I guess that’s a plus and a minus. If you don’t have a 4K TV or care, then you can save there. However, every TV made for the past few years has been 4K or higher, so I would expect that they would make it part of the regular package. They will also sell you individual streaming services too such as Hulu, Disney+, etc. I didn’t opt to do this because I was already signed up for all the ones I wanted, and by keeping them separate, I can drop the ones I want whenever I want based on content.&nbsp;</p>
  553.  
  554.  
  555.  
  556. <p><strong>Here’s what I used to pay:</strong></p>
  557.  
  558.  
  559.  
  560. <p>My Xfinity TV alone went up to $115month</p>
  561.  
  562.  
  563.  
  564. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="603" height="1000" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/OldXfinityBill-603x1000.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18596" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/OldXfinityBill-603x1000.png 603w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/OldXfinityBill-392x650.png 392w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/OldXfinityBill.png 650w" sizes="(max-width: 603px) 100vw, 603px" /></figure>
  565.  
  566.  
  567.  
  568. <p>But wait, there&#8217;s more! Let&#8217;s not forget about those TiVo fees. I pay for one DVR monthly at $14.99/month</p>
  569.  
  570.  
  571.  
  572. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="468" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/TiVoMonthly.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18598"/></figure>
  573.  
  574.  
  575.  
  576. <p>And the other DVR I was paying for annually at $149.99/year:</p>
  577.  
  578.  
  579.  
  580. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="459" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/TiVoAnnual.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18599"/></figure>
  581.  
  582.  
  583.  
  584. <p><strong>If you add up all three I was paying $142.99/month for cable TV and TiVo DVR service!</strong></p>
  585.  
  586.  
  587.  
  588. <p><strong>Here’s what I pay now:</strong></p>
  589.  
  590.  
  591.  
  592. <p>Once all the promotional savings end, I will be paying<strong> $72.98/month</strong></p>
  593.  
  594.  
  595.  
  596. <p>This means I almost cut my TV bill in half, saving $70/month! That&#8217;s $840 a year that I can do something else with and still watch all the same stuff I always did, even in more convenient ways! </p>
  597.  
  598.  
  599.  
  600. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="815" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NewYouTubeTVBill.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18597" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NewYouTubeTVBill.png 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NewYouTubeTVBill-518x650.png 518w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></figure>
  601.  
  602.  
  603.  
  604. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How do I watch YouTube TV or record shows?&nbsp;</h2>
  605.  
  606.  
  607.  
  608. <p>Since YouTube TV is like any other streaming service, they have a dedicated app just like Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, etc. I have an Apple TV 4K streaming device on all my TVs. To get YouTube TV, I just downloaded the YouTube TV app on all my devices. Not only could I install it on my Apple TVs, but I could also install it on my iPhone, iPad, and natively on my LG TV as well. Although I don’t really need it on the LG TV since I have an Apple TV 4K connected to it anyway, I just wanted to see what it was like for the purpose of this blog post. </p>
  609.  
  610.  
  611.  
  612. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/YouTubeTV-Library.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18603"/></figure>
  613.  
  614.  
  615.  
  616. <p>YouTube TV has a built-in unlimited DVR feature. Instead of scheduling individual episodes to record, you just specify the show you want to always record and it makes every episode available to watch at any time. This concept takes a little getting used to because you never have to worry about filling up your DVR/Account. It’s truly unlimited.&nbsp;</p>
  617.  
  618.  
  619.  
  620. <p>YouTube TV also allows up to 6 accounts per home. This way, each family member gets their own channel line-ups, watch history and virtual DVRs.</p>
  621.  
  622.  
  623.  
  624. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Another hidden benefit</h2>
  625.  
  626.  
  627.  
  628. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/YouTubeTV-App-AppleTV4K.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18601"/></figure>
  629.  
  630.  
  631.  
  632. <p>No more Input switching. Before, If I wanted to watch live TV or recordings on TiVo, I’d have to switch the TV’s input to the HDMI port that the TiVo was connected to. This is not a big deal, but with YouTube TV being just another app on Apple TV, the TV can stay on the Apple TV input 100% of the time. </p>
  633.  
  634.  
  635.  
  636. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Watching while traveling</h2>
  637.  
  638.  
  639.  
  640. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/TravelATV.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18604"/></figure>
  641.  
  642.  
  643.  
  644. <p>Another benefit of YouTube TV is that it’s an App, and therefore, it’s installed on all my devices, including the Apple TV that I travel with. This means that unlike Xfinity (which does have an Xfinity Stream App), I can watch TV when I’m on the road, too, if I want. The Xfinity Stream app will only work if you’re connected to Xfinity Internet and most hotels, etc., don’t use Xfinity Internet for their business service. This renders the Xfinity Stream app useless.&nbsp;</p>
  645.  
  646.  
  647.  
  648. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Any downsides?</h2>
  649.  
  650.  
  651.  
  652. <p>Not really, but if I had to pick one it would be the user interface takes some getting used to. Thankfully, they let you configure your channel guide by logging into your account on your computer. This is AWESOME as not only can I just list the channels I’ll actually watch, I can put them in the order I want with my absolute favorites at the top of the list. I know this is supposed to be about downsides, but I had to explain that before getting to the downside.&nbsp;</p>
  653.  
  654.  
  655.  
  656. <p>When you launch YouTube TV, the menu is divided into three sections: Library, Home, and Live.&nbsp;</p>
  657.  
  658.  
  659.  
  660. <p>Library is where you will always find the shows that you record. Pretty self-explanatory, and that just works.</p>
  661.  
  662.  
  663.  
  664. <p>Home is kinda the place where you’ll find the channels you watched live actually streaming their live broadcasts simultaneously so that you can just select one and start watching and also suggestions of things you might want to watch. I found that it suggested a lot of stuff that I couldn&#8217;t care less about. Perhaps this will get better over time as it learns my viewing habits.&nbsp;</p>
  665.  
  666.  
  667.  
  668. <p>Live takes you to the channel guide that you customize online. It lists the channels you picked in the order you put them in, and it shows a listing of what&#8217;s on right now and what’s coming on next. This is pretty typical of most guides.&nbsp;</p>
  669.  
  670.  
  671.  
  672. <p>If I could, I would probably rearrange the order of these tabs. I would put Home or Live first since that’s likely where you’re, or I’m going first. Library doesn’t need to be front and center, as I’m just not recording much anymore these days.&nbsp;</p>
  673.  
  674.  
  675.  
  676. <p>This is a very minor gripe. I’d like more customization options of the user interface. That’s really my only minor complaint.</p>
  677.  
  678.  
  679.  
  680. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How’s the streaming quality?</h2>
  681.  
  682.  
  683.  
  684. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/YouTubeTV-FalconsGame.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18602"/></figure>
  685.  
  686.  
  687.  
  688. <p>I opted for the extra 4K streaming service (which seems kinda like a money grab), and with that said, the quality has been excellent. I have had no buffering of any kind, and the quality of the shows is great. I was also happy to see that if the show is being broadcast in Dolby Atmos that spatial audio comes through too.&nbsp;</p>
  689.  
  690.  
  691.  
  692. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
  693.  
  694.  
  695.  
  696. <p>Are you looking at your cable bill and wondering why it is so high? It’s time to evaluate what you’re paying for and what you actually watch. Even if you’re not ready to cut the cord, I’d bet many of you pay for channels you NEVER watch. See if your existing provider has a cheaper plan that includes just the channels you want. Look at other providers, such as YouTube TV, and see if they work out better. You can start a trial with YouTube TV and test it. If it works, great, keep it. If not, cancel it before the trial is up. Try it at tv.youtube.com.</p>
  697. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/im-now-officially-a-cord-cutter-too/">I’m now officially a cord cutter, too</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  698. ]]></content:encoded>
  699. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18593</post-id> </item>
  700. <item>
  701. <title>Apple Vision Pro &#8211; My Honest Review</title>
  702. <link>https://terrywhite.com/apple-vision-pro-my-honest-review/</link>
  703. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  704. <pubDate>Tue, 06 Feb 2024 21:14:05 +0000</pubDate>
  705. <category><![CDATA[Apple]]></category>
  706. <category><![CDATA[Apple Vision Pro]]></category>
  707. <category><![CDATA[Electronics]]></category>
  708. <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
  709. <category><![CDATA[Reivew]]></category>
  710. <category><![CDATA[Spatial Computing]]></category>
  711. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18561</guid>
  712.  
  713. <description><![CDATA[<p>Apple Vision Pro is Apple&#8217;s entry into the world of spatial computing. While people will be quick to compare it to all the existing VR headsets, that&#8217;s like comparing all &#8230; </p>
  714. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/apple-vision-pro-my-honest-review/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Apple Vision Pro &#8211; My Honest Review"</span></a></p>
  715. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/apple-vision-pro-my-honest-review/">Apple Vision Pro &#8211; My Honest Review</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  716. ]]></description>
  717. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  718. <p>Apple Vision Pro is Apple&#8217;s entry into the world of spatial computing. While people will be quick to compare it to all the existing VR headsets, that&#8217;s like comparing all 2007-era cellphones and early smartphones to the original iPhone in 2007. They are not the same. Apple Vision Pro is a different device with some VR features and capabilities just like early cellphones could make calls, text, and browse the internet. The iPhone did these things in innovative ways. I&#8217;ve spent the last four days taking the Apple Vision Pro through its paces. </p>
  719.  
  720.  
  721.  
  722. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/TerryWhite-wearing-AppleVisionPro.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18564"/></figure>
  723.  
  724.  
  725.  
  726. <p>No matter which reviews you read or watch about the Apple Vision Pro, they really can&#8217;t do it justice. It would be like describing what it&#8217;s like to go to the beach to someone who has never been on a beach before. You can describe the feeling and even show them pictures and videos, but they won&#8217;t know what it&#8217;s like until they experience it. Apple Vision Pro (AVP) is like that.  Rather than trying to describe it in words, I recorded my <a href="https://youtu.be/ghOtz5p3VMM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">review and demo here</a>:</p>
  727.  
  728.  
  729.  
  730. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  731. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ghOtz5p3VMM?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  732. </div></figure>
  733.  
  734.  
  735.  
  736. <span id="more-18561"></span>
  737.  
  738.  
  739.  
  740. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frequently-asked-questions-that-didn-t-make-it-into-the-video">Frequently Asked Questions that didn&#8217;t make it into the video</h2>
  741.  
  742.  
  743.  
  744. <p>Q. One of the problems I have with Apple Vision Pro is that it&#8217;s a very solitary device. Is there a way to watch a movie with someone else?</p>
  745.  
  746.  
  747.  
  748. <p>A. I know at least two of my friends that have brought this up. I did some digging and found out that the Apple TV app has SharePlay built-in. I tested it and it worked great.</p>
  749.  
  750.  
  751.  
  752. <p>Q. Hey, can’t you also tap the keys on the virtual keyboard directly in mid air?</p>
  753.  
  754.  
  755.  
  756. <p>A. Yes! And this is better but still not great and will take practice. I’ve found voice dictation to be the fastest and most efficient. </p>
  757.  
  758.  
  759.  
  760. <p>Q. If you have the Environment turned all the way up to where you can&#8217;t see the room you&#8217;re in, can you still interact with people in the room?</p>
  761.  
  762.  
  763.  
  764. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="509" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/people-awareness.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18566"/></figure>
  765.  
  766.  
  767.  
  768. <p>A. Yes, by default People Awareness is on to allow you to see people nearby through your virtual environment. </p>
  769.  
  770.  
  771.  
  772. <p>Q. How did you record the video above and the screenshot of People Awareness above?</p>
  773.  
  774.  
  775.  
  776. <p>A. Apple Vision Pro has built-in screen recording that is very similar to your iPhone/iPad. The thing I had to get used to is that parts of the video/screenshot look blurry. This is because, like your eyes, the thing you&#8217;re looking at the time you took the screenshot or recording will be in focus, and the stuff off to the sides will be soft focus.</p>
  777.  
  778.  
  779.  
  780. <p>Q. When doing FaceTime or other online meetings, how do people see you?</p>
  781.  
  782.  
  783.  
  784. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="230" height="499" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/TW-AVP-persona.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18567"/></figure>
  785.  
  786.  
  787.  
  788. <p>A. During the setup process of AVP you create a virtual persona. This persona (fake you) will be used as your avatar during FaceTime calls.  Persona is a &#8220;Beta&#8221; feature, and I&#8217;m hoping that it gets MUCH BETTER. As of right now, people look kind of subdued with fake smiles. </p>
  789.  
  790.  
  791.  
  792. <p>Q. Can you import 360º photos?</p>
  793.  
  794.  
  795.  
  796. <p>A. Yes, you can add panoramas or 360º photos to the Apple Photos app, and once they are synced to AVP, you&#8217;ll be able to enjoy them in an immersive 360º view. </p>
  797.  
  798.  
  799.  
  800. <p>Q. Which configuration did you order?</p>
  801.  
  802.  
  803.  
  804. <p>A. I went with the 1TB version simply because I didn&#8217;t know how much space I may use over time, and as you probably figured out, you can&#8217;t add more storage later. I also got my Zeiss prescription inserts and the AVP Travel Case (which is huge). I didn&#8217;t order an extra battery, but I may get one for long flights. </p>
  805.  
  806.  
  807.  
  808. <p>Q. I know you said you don&#8217;t play games, well I do. Can I use a game controller?</p>
  809.  
  810.  
  811.  
  812. <p>A. Yes, it supports a variety of wireless game controllers, including Playstation and Xbox. </p>
  813.  
  814.  
  815.  
  816. <p>Q. Can I try one before buying?</p>
  817.  
  818.  
  819.  
  820. <p>A. Yes, you can visit your local Apple Store for a demo.</p>
  821.  
  822.  
  823.  
  824. <p>Q. How much is it, and where can I get it or more details and specs?</p>
  825.  
  826.  
  827.  
  828. <p>A. Apple Vision Pro starts at $3,500, and you can order one at your local Apple Store or <a href="https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-vision/apple-vision-pro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">online here</a>.</p>
  829.  
  830.  
  831.  
  832. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bottom-line">The Bottom Line</h2>
  833.  
  834.  
  835.  
  836. <p>I&#8217;m happy with my Apple Vision Pro. I&#8217;m using it more each day. Obviously, this is just the beginning, and it&#8217;s a version 1 product. I expect Vision OS to get better, to see more Vision OS native apps and new less expensive models to come out over time. It&#8217;s an exciting time, and every time I use it, I feel like I&#8217;m in the future.</p>
  837. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/apple-vision-pro-my-honest-review/">Apple Vision Pro &#8211; My Honest Review</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  838. ]]></content:encoded>
  839. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18561</post-id> </item>
  840. <item>
  841. <title>Check Out My New Adobe Express Class</title>
  842. <link>https://terrywhite.com/check-out-my-new-adobe-express-class/</link>
  843. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  844. <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2024 19:07:11 +0000</pubDate>
  845. <category><![CDATA[Adobe]]></category>
  846. <category><![CDATA[Graphic Design]]></category>
  847. <category><![CDATA[Design]]></category>
  848. <category><![CDATA[Video Editing]]></category>
  849. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18539</guid>
  850.  
  851. <description><![CDATA[<p>I just wanted to take a moment to give you a heads-up that I just released my latest class: &#8220;How to Get Started with Adobe Express &#8211; 10 Things Beginners &#8230; </p>
  852. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/check-out-my-new-adobe-express-class/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Check Out My New Adobe Express Class"</span></a></p>
  853. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/check-out-my-new-adobe-express-class/">Check Out My New Adobe Express Class</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  854. ]]></description>
  855. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  856. <p>I just wanted to take a moment to give you a heads-up that I just released my latest class: &#8220;<a href="https://youtu.be/742e8cZyaYw?si=YlCsJz_fuDR-YwdY" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How to Get Started with Adobe Express &#8211; 10 Things Beginners Want to Know How To Do.</a>&#8221; This free class is complete with chapters for the 10 Things so that you can quickly get to things you want anytime. It&#8217;s FREE (just like <a href="https://new.express.adobe.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adobe Express</a>) so enjoy!</p>
  857.  
  858.  
  859.  
  860. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  861. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/742e8cZyaYw?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  862. </div></figure>
  863.  
  864.  
  865.  
  866. <p>With <a href="https://new.express.adobe.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adobe Express</a>, it’s easier than ever to make flyers, social posts, TikToks, Reels, and more. Enjoy premium features like quickly removing backgrounds and resizing designs. Create easier with generative AI tools.</p>
  867. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/check-out-my-new-adobe-express-class/">Check Out My New Adobe Express Class</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  868. ]]></content:encoded>
  869. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18539</post-id> </item>
  870. <item>
  871. <title>My Top 23 Gadgets from 2023</title>
  872. <link>https://terrywhite.com/my-top-23-gadgets-from-2023/</link>
  873. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  874. <pubDate>Fri, 29 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  875. <category><![CDATA[Gadgets]]></category>
  876. <category><![CDATA[Anker]]></category>
  877. <category><![CDATA[Gadget]]></category>
  878. <category><![CDATA[Hyperdrive]]></category>
  879. <category><![CDATA[Neewer]]></category>
  880. <category><![CDATA[smart home]]></category>
  881. <category><![CDATA[sonos]]></category>
  882. <category><![CDATA[Unifi]]></category>
  883. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18506</guid>
  884.  
  885. <description><![CDATA[<p>It’s that time of year! It’s time for my Top 23 Gadgets of 2023. In no particular order, I’ve listed the best gadgets I’ve gotten in 2023. Each product is &#8230; </p>
  886. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/my-top-23-gadgets-from-2023/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "My Top 23 Gadgets from 2023"</span></a></p>
  887. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/my-top-23-gadgets-from-2023/">My Top 23 Gadgets from 2023</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  888. ]]></description>
  889. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  890. <p>It’s that time of year! It’s time for my Top 23 Gadgets of 2023. In no particular order, I’ve listed the best gadgets I’ve gotten in 2023. Each product is linked below. </p>
  891.  
  892.  
  893.  
  894. <p>Here&#8217;s the video:</p>
  895.  
  896.  
  897.  
  898. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  899. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jlYlsjIz8gk?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  900. </div></figure>
  901.  
  902.  
  903.  
  904. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-01-unifi-network">01. Unifi Network</h2>
  905.  
  906.  
  907.  
  908. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/UnifiNetworkRack.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18507"/></figure>
  909.  
  910.  
  911.  
  912. <p><a href="https://store.ui.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Check out Unifi Products here</a>.</p>
  913.  
  914.  
  915.  
  916. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See my Unifi blog post here</a>: </p>
  917.  
  918.  
  919.  
  920. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-02-unifi-protect-cameras">02. Unifi Protect Cameras</h2>
  921.  
  922.  
  923.  
  924. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5_bullet_front_porch.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18380"/></figure>
  925.  
  926.  
  927.  
  928. <p><a href="https://store.ui.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Check out Unifi Products here</a>.</p>
  929.  
  930.  
  931.  
  932. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See my Unifi Protect blog post here</a>.</p>
  933.  
  934.  
  935.  
  936. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-03-synology-nas-ds1522">03. Synology NAS DS1522+</h2>
  937.  
  938.  
  939.  
  940. <span id="more-18506"></span>
  941.  
  942.  
  943.  
  944. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="350" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/my-synology.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17622"/></figure>
  945.  
  946.  
  947.  
  948. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1713932-REG/synology_diskstation_ds1522_5_bay_nas.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Synology NAS DS1522+ here</a>.</p>
  949.  
  950.  
  951.  
  952. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-to-store-and-backup-your-photos-like-a-pro/">Check out my Synology blog post here</a>. </p>
  953.  
  954.  
  955.  
  956. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-04-hyperdrive-thunderbolt-4-dock">04. HyperDrive Thunderbolt 4 Dock</h2>
  957.  
  958.  
  959.  
  960. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HyperDock.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18508"/></figure>
  961.  
  962.  
  963.  
  964. <p><a href="https://www.hypershop.com/products/hyperdrive-thunderbolt-4-docking-station" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the HyperDrive Thunderbolt 4 Dock here</a>.</p>
  965.  
  966.  
  967.  
  968. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-05-neewer-wall-mount">05. Neewer Wall Mount</h2>
  969.  
  970.  
  971.  
  972. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/NeewerWallMount00.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18509"/></figure>
  973.  
  974.  
  975.  
  976. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/47gbXHl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Check out the Neewer Wall Mount here</a>.</p>
  977.  
  978.  
  979.  
  980. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-06-platypod-grip">06. Platypod Grip</h2>
  981.  
  982.  
  983.  
  984. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="584" height="649" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/PlatypodGrip.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18510"/></figure>
  985.  
  986.  
  987.  
  988. <p><a href="https://www.platypod.com/products/platypod-grip" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Platypod Grip here</a>.</p>
  989.  
  990.  
  991.  
  992. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-07-lutron-caseta-diva-and-claro">07. Lutron Caseta Diva and Claro</h2>
  993.  
  994.  
  995.  
  996. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/LutronCasetaDiva-Claro.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18511"/></figure>
  997.  
  998.  
  999.  
  1000. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/48blvF9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diva Dimmer</a>: </p>
  1001.  
  1002.  
  1003.  
  1004. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/48gRDHi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Claro Switch</a>: </p>
  1005.  
  1006.  
  1007.  
  1008. <p>Video Review: </p>
  1009.  
  1010.  
  1011.  
  1012. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  1013. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BZwpP0TrkiY?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  1014. </div></figure>
  1015.  
  1016.  
  1017.  
  1018. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-08-amerisense-usb-c-outlet">08. Amerisense USB-C Outlet</h2>
  1019.  
  1020.  
  1021.  
  1022. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AmerisenseUSB-outlet.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18512"/></figure>
  1023.  
  1024.  
  1025.  
  1026. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3vplu1x">Amerisense USB A and C Outle</a><a href="https://amzn.to/3vplu1x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">t</a></p>
  1027.  
  1028.  
  1029.  
  1030. <p>09. Nikon Z 8 Mirrorless Camera</p>
  1031.  
  1032.  
  1033.  
  1034. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nikon-Z8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18513"/></figure>
  1035.  
  1036.  
  1037.  
  1038. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/48hx8dI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Camera here.</a></p>
  1039.  
  1040.  
  1041.  
  1042. <p></p>
  1043.  
  1044.  
  1045.  
  1046. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-twinkly-lights">10. Twinkly Lights</h2>
  1047.  
  1048.  
  1049.  
  1050. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/TwinklyOutdoor.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18514"/></figure>
  1051.  
  1052.  
  1053.  
  1054. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/48A1qYQ">Twinkly String</a>: </p>
  1055.  
  1056.  
  1057.  
  1058. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/41DWY92">Twinkly Icicles</a>: </p>
  1059.  
  1060.  
  1061.  
  1062. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3Rxbpao">Twinkly Curtain</a>: </p>
  1063.  
  1064.  
  1065.  
  1066. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-11-bluevua-ro100ropot-reverse-osmosis-system">11. Bluevua RO100ROPOT Reverse Osmosis System</h2>
  1067.  
  1068.  
  1069.  
  1070. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua_front.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18472"/></figure>
  1071.  
  1072.  
  1073.  
  1074. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3NGh6Sc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Bluevua here</a>.</p>
  1075.  
  1076.  
  1077.  
  1078. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/from-tap-to-pure-delight-the-device-that-makes-water-crystal-clear-and-delicious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See my Review here.</a> </p>
  1079.  
  1080.  
  1081.  
  1082. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-12-nanoleaf-lines">12. Nanoleaf Lines</h2>
  1083.  
  1084.  
  1085.  
  1086. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_4709.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17697"/></figure>
  1087.  
  1088.  
  1089.  
  1090. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3tBbmT0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Order Nanoleaf Lines here</a></p>
  1091.  
  1092.  
  1093.  
  1094. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-just-revamped-my-home-office/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See my office makeover here</a>.</p>
  1095.  
  1096.  
  1097.  
  1098. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-13-rode-mics">13. Rode Mics</h2>
  1099.  
  1100.  
  1101.  
  1102. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="355" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RodeWirelessGoII.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18515"/></figure>
  1103.  
  1104.  
  1105.  
  1106. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1622642-REG/rode_wigoii_wireless_go_ii_compact.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rode Wireless Go II</a>: </p>
  1107.  
  1108.  
  1109.  
  1110. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1671635-REG/rode_podmic_dynamic_podcasting_microphone.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rode PodMic</a>: </p>
  1111.  
  1112.  
  1113.  
  1114. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-14-lume-cube-studio-2-panel-light-kit">14. Lume Cube Studio 2 Panel Light Kit</h2>
  1115.  
  1116.  
  1117.  
  1118. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/LumeCubeLightpanel.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18516"/></figure>
  1119.  
  1120.  
  1121.  
  1122. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3vhWUQt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Check out the Lume Cube Studio 2 Panel Light Kit here</a>.</p>
  1123.  
  1124.  
  1125.  
  1126. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-15-lutron-shades-by-serena">15. Lutron Shades by Serena</h2>
  1127.  
  1128.  
  1129.  
  1130. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3321.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18517"/></figure>
  1131.  
  1132.  
  1133.  
  1134. <p><a href="https://www.serenashades.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get your quote here on Serena Shades</a></p>
  1135.  
  1136.  
  1137.  
  1138. <p>Video Review: </p>
  1139.  
  1140.  
  1141.  
  1142. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  1143. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kdrcwUH2-oQ?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  1144. </div></figure>
  1145.  
  1146.  
  1147.  
  1148. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-16-sonos-speakers">16. Sonos Speakers</h2>
  1149.  
  1150.  
  1151.  
  1152. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="540" height="649" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/sonos-boxes.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18488"/></figure>
  1153.  
  1154.  
  1155.  
  1156. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1758280-REG/sonos_arc_soundbar_with_sub.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Arc Soundbar with Era 300 rears and Sub Gen 3 Subwoofer</a>: </p>
  1157.  
  1158.  
  1159.  
  1160. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754575-REG/sonos_e30g1us1blk_era_300_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 300</a>: </p>
  1161.  
  1162.  
  1163.  
  1164. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754561-REG/sonos_e10g1us1blk_era_100_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 100</a>: </p>
  1165.  
  1166.  
  1167.  
  1168. <p><a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1782758-REG/sonos_move2us1blk_move_2_black.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Move 2</a>: </p>
  1169.  
  1170.  
  1171.  
  1172. <p><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-from-bose-to-sonos-and-i-love-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read about my switch to Sonos here</a>.</p>
  1173.  
  1174.  
  1175.  
  1176. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-17-kase-filters">17. Kase Filters</h2>
  1177.  
  1178.  
  1179.  
  1180. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="349" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Kase.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18518"/></figure>
  1181.  
  1182.  
  1183.  
  1184. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/41EEXaC" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See the Kase filters here</a>.</p>
  1185.  
  1186.  
  1187.  
  1188. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-18-anker-usb-c-battery">18. Anker USB-C Battery</h2>
  1189.  
  1190.  
  1191.  
  1192. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="565" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/anker-battery-usb-C.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18519"/></figure>
  1193.  
  1194.  
  1195.  
  1196. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3S0GXae" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This one</a> is in the video: </p>
  1197.  
  1198.  
  1199.  
  1200. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3vhiswo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">But I actually like this one better</a>: </p>
  1201.  
  1202.  
  1203.  
  1204. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-19-windshield-wow-pro">19. Windshield Wow Pro</h2>
  1205.  
  1206.  
  1207.  
  1208. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/WindshieldWow1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18521"/></figure>
  1209.  
  1210.  
  1211.  
  1212. <p><a href="https://windshieldwow.com/products/pro-set" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Windshield Wow Pro Set here</a>.</p>
  1213.  
  1214.  
  1215.  
  1216. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-20-astroai-portable-air-compressor">20. AstroAI Portable Air Compressor</h2>
  1217.  
  1218.  
  1219.  
  1220. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AirCompressor.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18522"/></figure>
  1221.  
  1222.  
  1223.  
  1224. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3TDyhrh">Get the AstroAI air compressor here</a>.</p>
  1225.  
  1226.  
  1227.  
  1228. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/47p1728" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Use this AC to DC Converter to plug it into your wall outlet</a>: </p>
  1229.  
  1230.  
  1231.  
  1232. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-21-anker-3-in-1-cube">21. Anker 3-in-1 Cube</h2>
  1233.  
  1234.  
  1235.  
  1236. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="447" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Anker-3-in-1-Cube.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18303"/></figure>
  1237.  
  1238.  
  1239.  
  1240. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/4aFtjjO" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe here</a>.</p>
  1241.  
  1242.  
  1243.  
  1244. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-22-hoto-electric-screwdriver">22. HOTO Electric Screwdriver</h2>
  1245.  
  1246.  
  1247.  
  1248. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="366" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/PowerScrewdriver3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18523"/></figure>
  1249.  
  1250.  
  1251.  
  1252. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3tBbIci" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the HOTO Electric Screwdriver here</a>.</p>
  1253.  
  1254.  
  1255.  
  1256. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23-iphone-15-pro">23. iPhone 15 Pro</h2>
  1257.  
  1258.  
  1259.  
  1260. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="740" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableLightroom.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18362" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableLightroom.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableLightroom-571x650.jpg 571w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></figure>
  1261.  
  1262.  
  1263.  
  1264. <p><a href="https://www.apple.com/iphone-15-pro/">See the iPhone 15 Pro on Apple&#8217;s site here</a>.</p>
  1265.  
  1266.  
  1267.  
  1268. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bonus-gadget">BONUS GADGET</h2>
  1269.  
  1270.  
  1271.  
  1272. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="590" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FlatEthernet.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18527"/></figure>
  1273.  
  1274.  
  1275.  
  1276. <p>Ethernet cables are probably the least exciting gadget in the world. However, they are very necessary for connecting high-speed gadgets to your network/router. These FLAT CAT 6 Ethernet cables have performed FLAWLESSLY for me. I&#8217;ve been buying more and more of them as they are easy to hide due to their flat nature and have yet to fail me. </p>
  1277.  
  1278.  
  1279.  
  1280. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="397" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HiddenFlatEthernet-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18529"/></figure>
  1281.  
  1282.  
  1283.  
  1284. <p>Available in white or black and lengths from 1 foot to 200 feet. <a href="https://amzn.to/3S13dAt">Check them out here</a>.</p>
  1285. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/my-top-23-gadgets-from-2023/">My Top 23 Gadgets from 2023</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  1286. ]]></content:encoded>
  1287. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18506</post-id> </item>
  1288. <item>
  1289. <title>I Switched From Bose to Sonos and I Love It!</title>
  1290. <link>https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-from-bose-to-sonos-and-i-love-it/</link>
  1291. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  1292. <pubDate>Tue, 26 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  1293. <category><![CDATA[Audio]]></category>
  1294. <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
  1295. <category><![CDATA[Bose]]></category>
  1296. <category><![CDATA[Home Audio]]></category>
  1297. <category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
  1298. <category><![CDATA[Lutron]]></category>
  1299. <category><![CDATA[sonos]]></category>
  1300. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18484</guid>
  1301.  
  1302. <description><![CDATA[<p>For years, I&#8217;ve enjoyed various Bose sound systems. I&#8217;ve used Bose for my home theater as well as my whole house music system. When I moved to my new home &#8230; </p>
  1303. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-from-bose-to-sonos-and-i-love-it/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "I Switched From Bose to Sonos and I Love It!"</span></a></p>
  1304. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-from-bose-to-sonos-and-i-love-it/">I Switched From Bose to Sonos and I Love It!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  1305. ]]></description>
  1306. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  1307. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/sonos-arc.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18485"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sonos Arc Soundbar mounted on the wall</figcaption></figure>
  1308.  
  1309.  
  1310.  
  1311. <p>For years, I&#8217;ve enjoyed various Bose sound systems. I&#8217;ve used Bose for my home theater as well as my whole house music system. When I moved to my new home in 2016, I built a whole house music system based on the now-discontinued Bose SoundTouch system. I had the Bose Soundtouch 300 soundbar with the small cube rear speakers and Bose subwoofer. I also had various SoundTouch 10 and 20 Series II WiFi speakers around the house. </p>
  1312.  
  1313.  
  1314.  
  1315. <p>Besides the sound, what I loved about the SoundTouch system was that I could use their mobile App to control the system. They had integrated with popular music services such as Spotify, Pandora and Apple Music. I could choose any speakers and play playlists or music stations to them and then put my phone away. Since the music was being played directly from the speaker&#8217;s WiFi connection, it didn&#8217;t matter if my phone stayed on or in the app. </p>
  1316.  
  1317.  
  1318.  
  1319. <p>For years, this worked quite well, and then Apple introduced AirPlay 2. Although it&#8217;s great that the speakers could play the music directly from the various music services, it was an isolated system. If you want to stream music from your Apple computer, iPhone, or iPad device, you would want to use AirPlay 2. This would also allow you to stream to your other speakers at the same time. For a couple of years, Bose promised to deliver a software update that would enable AirPlay 2, and in 2020, they finally kept their promise. This made me even happier with my system. However, they managed to implement AirPlay 2 in a half-baked way. If you put two speakers in a stereo pair, then you lost the ability to use AirPlay 2 on those speakers. You had to choose between AirPlay 2 or having stereo. The handwriting was on the wall as Bose had discontinued the SoundTouch system and started selling a new system called &#8220;Bose Home Speakers.&#8221;</p>
  1320.  
  1321.  
  1322.  
  1323. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-that-was-three-years-ago-it-was-time-to-move-on">That was three years ago! It was time to move on.</h2>
  1324.  
  1325.  
  1326.  
  1327. <span id="more-18484"></span>
  1328.  
  1329.  
  1330.  
  1331. <p>We see this all the time. Products are discontinued and replaced by newer product lines. I didn&#8217;t even bother to look at the newly announced speaker line because mine was working fine. Well, that was three years ago. Things have changed. With most products that are discontinued, it&#8217;s doubtful that you&#8217;ll see any software updates containing new features or even bug fixes. As time went on, my Bose SoundTouch speakers started to have issues. The worst issue was going into the App to play some music only to find many if not all, speakers offline. Sometimes, rebooting the app would fix it. Sometimes, unplugging the speaker and plugging it back in would fix it; other times, I just couldn&#8217;t get the speaker to come back online when I needed it. Or worse, the speakers would randomly drop out while playing music. This is the one thing I can&#8217;t freaking stand!</p>
  1332.  
  1333.  
  1334.  
  1335. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-was-time-to-switch-to-a-new-system">It was time to switch to a new system. </h2>
  1336.  
  1337.  
  1338.  
  1339. <p>I had a good seven-year run with the Bose SoundTouch, but it was time to upgrade. I didn&#8217;t even bother looking at the new stuff at Bose. All I had been hearing about for the past five years or so was how great Sonos was. I knew that I would buy Sonos gear this time around.</p>
  1340.  
  1341.  
  1342.  
  1343. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-Era100s-bathroom.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18486"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Two Sonos Era 100s configured as a stereo pair  in my main bathroom</figcaption></figure>
  1344.  
  1345.  
  1346.  
  1347. <p>Sonos was having a year-end sale! That was my queue to place an order. At first, I was going to just order a couple of speakers (the newer Era 100) to test, but I didn&#8217;t want to miss the sale for the other speakers, as I couldn&#8217;t tell when the sale was going to end. </p>
  1348.  
  1349.  
  1350.  
  1351. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-go-big-or-go-home">Go big or go home! </h2>
  1352.  
  1353.  
  1354.  
  1355. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="540" height="649" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/sonos-boxes.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18488"/></figure>
  1356.  
  1357.  
  1358.  
  1359. <p>I placed an order for every speaker I wanted to replace. </p>
  1360.  
  1361.  
  1362.  
  1363. <p>1 <a href="https://amzn.to/3NHkDj5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Arc</a> &#8211; Soundbar</p>
  1364.  
  1365.  
  1366.  
  1367. <p>1 <a href="https://amzn.to/3RWjhUb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Sub gen 3</a> &#8211; Subwoofer</p>
  1368.  
  1369.  
  1370.  
  1371. <p>2 <a href="https://amzn.to/3RWvQPx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 300</a>s &#8211; Rear Speakers</p>
  1372.  
  1373.  
  1374.  
  1375. <p>*Note: I bought the Sonos Arc, Sub gen 3, and two Era 300s as <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1758280-REG/sonos_arc_soundbar_with_sub.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a home theater package deal for a better price</a>.</p>
  1376.  
  1377.  
  1378.  
  1379. <p>2 <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754561-REG/sonos_e10g1us1blk_era_100_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 100</a>s &#8211; Dining Room Stereo Pair</p>
  1380.  
  1381.  
  1382.  
  1383. <p>1 <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1782759-REG/sonos_move2us1_move_2_white.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Move 2</a> &#8211; Kitchen and Patio (this speaker has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts 24 hours, making it a speaker you can put anywhere, including outside, for leisure time by the pool.)</p>
  1384.  
  1385.  
  1386.  
  1387. <p>1 <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754561-REG/sonos_e10g1us1blk_era_100_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 100</a> &#8211; Photo Studio</p>
  1388.  
  1389.  
  1390.  
  1391. <p>1 <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754561-REG/sonos_e10g1us1blk_era_100_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 100 </a>&#8211; Photo Studio Dressing Room</p>
  1392.  
  1393.  
  1394.  
  1395. <p>1 <a href="https://amzn.to/3RWvQPx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 300</a> &#8211; Main Bedroom</p>
  1396.  
  1397.  
  1398.  
  1399. <p>2 <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754561-REG/sonos_e10g1us1blk_era_100_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 100</a>s &#8211; Main Bathroom</p>
  1400.  
  1401.  
  1402.  
  1403. <p>2 <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754561-REG/sonos_e10g1us1blk_era_100_speaker.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sonos Era 100</a>s &#8211; My office (the original order that I forgot to cancel)</p>
  1404.  
  1405.  
  1406.  
  1407. <p>Thanks to the Sonos holiday sale, I saved close to $1,000 on my order! I also appreciated that they offered next-day delivery for only $25 more. That&#8217;s unheard of for an order this large and heavy.</p>
  1408.  
  1409.  
  1410.  
  1411. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-setup-was-mostly-painless">The setup was mostly painless.</h2>
  1412.  
  1413.  
  1414.  
  1415. <p>Every speaker was relatively easy to set up. It was as simple as opening their newest app on my iPhone near the speaker that I had just plugged in, and within a few seconds, the speaker appeared and allowed me to get it connected to my WiFi easily, and then it would perform a software update. The only one that gave me a problem was the Sonos Arc (soundbar). Since I had an Ethernet cable in that location that the Bose 300 Soundbar was connected to, I plugged it into the Sonos Arc before attempting to set it up. My guess is that it did not like this. It failed two times in a row. I unplugged the Ethernet cable, set it up on WiFi, did the software update, and then connected it to Ethernet, and it was fine after that. </p>
  1416.  
  1417.  
  1418.  
  1419. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="520" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-era300-rear.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18487"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of the two Sonos Era 300s set up as rear speakers to the Sonos Arc soundbar.</figcaption></figure>
  1420.  
  1421.  
  1422.  
  1423. <p>Originally, I planned on just having the rear speakers (Era 300&#8217;s) and subwoofer (Sub gen 3) connected to WiFi. However, this apparently is something that it didn&#8217;t like. I played a movie on the new system, and the rear speakers skipped continuously. The Sub showed that it was connected to my WiFi but never played. </p>
  1424.  
  1425.  
  1426.  
  1427. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="415" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-adapters.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18489" style="width:355px;height:auto"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sonos Line-In/Ethernet Adapters</figcaption></figure>
  1428.  
  1429.  
  1430.  
  1431. <p>I gave up and ran Ethernet cables to the Era 300s (there is an <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754562-REG/sonos_cdnglww1_sonos_combo_adapter_white.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">optional line-in/ethernet adapter</a>) and the Sub gen 3 (It has ethernet built-in). </p>
  1432.  
  1433.  
  1434.  
  1435. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="632" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-SubGen3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18490"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sonos Sub Gen 3 on the floor behind the theater seating</figcaption></figure>
  1436.  
  1437.  
  1438.  
  1439. <p>This fixed the problem and it never skipped again. I have some speakers on WiFi, and they work fine. I just think that it didn&#8217;t like the soundbar on Ethernet and the rest on WiFi. Had I kept the Arc on WiFi, I&#8217;m guessing it would have been fine. If you follow any of my posts about networking, you know that I have a saying, &#8220;If it&#8217;s in my house and it has an Ethernet port, it&#8217;s plugged in!&#8221; Ethernet-connected devices are far more reliable than wirelessly connected devices on WiFi. This is another feature that I love on the latest Sonos speakers. Each one has a USB-C port on the back and, therefore, can be connected to Ethernet via their <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1754562-REG/sonos_cdnglww1_sonos_combo_adapter_white.html/BI/2167/KBID/2909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Line-in/Ethernet adapter</a>. All of my Sonos speakers are connected to Ethernet except the ones in the dining room and the bathroom. I don&#8217;t have Ethernet drops in those locations. </p>
  1440.  
  1441.  
  1442.  
  1443. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="549" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EhogearOutlet.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18500"/></figure>
  1444.  
  1445.  
  1446.  
  1447. <p>I can&#8217;t stand seeing cables running down the wall. I <a href="https://amzn.to/3RyuPvz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">installed these outlets</a> for the rear speakers so that there is a plug and ethernet cable right behind the speaker and not visible. </p>
  1448.  
  1449.  
  1450.  
  1451. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tuning-the-speakers-via-trueplay">Tuning the Speakers via Trueplay</h2>
  1452.  
  1453.  
  1454.  
  1455. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="624" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-Trueplay.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18493"/></figure>
  1456.  
  1457.  
  1458.  
  1459. <p>Sonos has a clever system for tuning their speakers (the ones you have in stereo pairs) wirelessly via their app on iPhone (sorry, Android users). You start the process and then walk around the room waving your iPhone up and down while the speakers play tones that the app listens for. This tunes the speakers for the acoustics in that room. If it&#8217;s just a single speaker, it will tune automatically without walking around the room. Bose had a similar system just for the theater setup, but it was a wired headset that you wore and then moved from seat to seat while it tuned. </p>
  1460.  
  1461.  
  1462.  
  1463. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-s-the-performance">How&#8217;s the performance?</h2>
  1464.  
  1465.  
  1466.  
  1467. <p>I&#8217;m thrilled to say that I LOVE THIS SONOS system. I have played music across all of the speakers for most of the day for several days, and it hasn&#8217;t skipped a beat. Literally, there hasn&#8217;t been a single dropout. The speakers that are on WiFi play just as well as the ones connected via Ethernet. </p>
  1468.  
  1469.  
  1470.  
  1471. <p>The theater system is also awesome! The Arc supports Dolby Atmos (the latest audio standard). Most of the movies that have come out in the past few years have Dolby Atmos tracks. Dolby Atmos is great, especially for those that don&#8217;t have the surround speakers, as it does Spatial Audio. The Sub gen 3 subwoofer also has noticeably more Ooomp than the Bose sub that it replaces. I put on Top Gun Maverick to test the system since there are lots of flyovers and jet engine rumbling. It was like watching it in the theater, and better than I expected. </p>
  1472.  
  1473.  
  1474.  
  1475. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-the-app">What about the App?</h2>
  1476.  
  1477.  
  1478.  
  1479. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MySonosApp.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18494"/></figure>
  1480.  
  1481.  
  1482.  
  1483. <p>For a system like this, the mobile App is extremely important! The app allows you to configure and set up new speakers, control their settings, and do firmware updates. Once everything is set up, you&#8217;ll use the app to log in to your favorite music services. Mine are Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music. </p>
  1484.  
  1485.  
  1486.  
  1487. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-App-Groups.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18495"/></figure>
  1488.  
  1489.  
  1490.  
  1491. <p>From the App, I can play any of my favorite stations/playlists to any speaker, room, or group of speakers. The App works fine, but I think the design could be improved. I think it takes too many taps to choose the speakers/group you want and then the music you want to play on it. Bose actually did a better job at this with their SoundTouch app. The Sonos App does do better by allowing you to set up speaker groups, though, and the SoundTouch App makes you choose the speakers you want each time. Thanks to Speaker Groups, you can quickly play music on the speakers in different rooms.</p>
  1492.  
  1493.  
  1494.  
  1495. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-there-anything-i-missed-from-the-bose-soundtouch">Is there anything I missed from the Bose SoundTouch?</h2>
  1496.  
  1497.  
  1498.  
  1499. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="273" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Bose_Soundtouch_speakers.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-15969" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Bose_Soundtouch_speakers.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Bose_Soundtouch_speakers-300x126.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bose Soundtouch 30, 20, and 10 speakers have configurable preset buttons on top.</figcaption></figure>
  1500.  
  1501.  
  1502.  
  1503. <p>Yep, there is one thing I miss for sure. The Bose SoundTouch speakers had a very clever hardware feature. Each speaker had a control panel that had six preset buttons labeled 1-6. </p>
  1504.  
  1505.  
  1506.  
  1507. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="308" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Bose-Presets.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18491"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bose Soundtouch configurable preset buttons. I hated that the speakers didn&#8217;t have a pause button.</figcaption></figure>
  1508.  
  1509.  
  1510.  
  1511. <p>The great part about this feature is that you could configure each button to play your favorite radio station or playlist on any of the supported services. I could walk up to the dining room SoundTouch and press 4 to hear my favorite dinner music playlist. These presets were even on the wireless remote for each speaker. </p>
  1512.  
  1513.  
  1514.  
  1515. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-smart-home-bonus-thanks-to-lutron">A Smart Home Bonus Thanks to Lutron</h2>
  1516.  
  1517.  
  1518.  
  1519. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="470" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lutron-Pico-Audio-Remote.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18492"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lutron Pico Remotes: 1. Lights, 2. Shades, 3. Audio Control for Sonos</figcaption></figure>
  1520.  
  1521.  
  1522.  
  1523. <p>Since moving in, I&#8217;ve been converting all of my light switches to Lutron Caseta. Earlier this year, I completed that project. Lutron makes a wireless Pico remote for their Caseta switches. Lutron has Sonos integration, too, and better yet, they also sell an Audio Pico remote. I got one of these remotes for each room with a Sonos speaker(s). Although it&#8217;s great to be able to use my phone, I&#8217;m a proponent of having physical control over all my smart home gear. </p>
  1524.  
  1525.  
  1526.  
  1527. <p>Unlike the Bose speakers, it&#8217;s odd that the Sonos speakers don&#8217;t include a remote. The <a href="https://amzn.to/3GWImIn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lutron Caseta Pico Audio Remote</a> has five buttons. The top button is for Play/Pause, and the arrow up/down buttons are for volume up/down. The middle button cycles through your Sonos favorites. I love pressing the Play button before getting into the shower and having my favorite music start playing. I even mounted one on the back shower wall to be able to skip songs quickly. You&#8217;ll also need the <a href="https://amzn.to/3RVwdK3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lutron Caseta bridge</a>. The bridge can handle up to 75 devices.</p>
  1528.  
  1529.  
  1530.  
  1531. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-speaking-of-smart-home-features">Speaking of Smart Home Features</h2>
  1532.  
  1533.  
  1534.  
  1535. <p>The Sonos speakers can also be configured as Voice Assistants, with all of the models supporting Amazon Alexa and some of the models also supporting Google Home. Even if you don&#8217;t use Amazon or Google, you can configure them for &#8220;Hey Sonos.&#8221; This is cool because it&#8217;s just for Sonos control, such as &#8220;Hey Sonos, play songs by _________&#8221; or &#8220;Hey Sonos, skip.&#8221; </p>
  1536.  
  1537.  
  1538.  
  1539. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bottom-line">The Bottom Line</h2>
  1540.  
  1541.  
  1542.  
  1543. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="598" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sonos-Move2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18497"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This is the Sonos Move 2 that I have in the kitchen. This speaker is sitting on its charging base as it has a built-in rechargeable battery with up to 24 hours of playtime on battery. It&#8217;s great to take out on the patio. </figcaption></figure>
  1544.  
  1545.  
  1546.  
  1547. <p>I actually don&#8217;t like having to replace systems that I&#8217;ve invested so much in. Besides the costs, there is the installation and getting everything fine-tuned. Had Bose continued to upgrade the SoundTouch via software updates and fix bugs, I&#8217;d still be using it. </p>
  1548.  
  1549.  
  1550.  
  1551. <p>With that said, I&#8217;m extremely happy with this system. The sound is great, but just as importantly, the system works as expected, and as I said earlier, I&#8217;ve played music across multiple rooms for hours and hours without a single dropout. The added bonuses have been &#8220;Hey Sonos&#8221; voice control as well as the Lutron Pico Audio Remotes in each room. I would say that I wish I had upgraded sooner, but again, it wasn&#8217;t a trivial amount of money to spend on a whole new system. I&#8217;m glad that I was able to get as much use out of my Bose system as I could before retiring it. </p>
  1552.  
  1553.  
  1554.  
  1555. <p>To answer your question, yes, I&#8217;d buy it again if I had to. </p>
  1556. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-from-bose-to-sonos-and-i-love-it/">I Switched From Bose to Sonos and I Love It!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  1557. ]]></content:encoded>
  1558. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18484</post-id> </item>
  1559. <item>
  1560. <title>From Tap to Pure Delight: The Device That Makes Water Crystal Clear and Delicious</title>
  1561. <link>https://terrywhite.com/from-tap-to-pure-delight-the-device-that-makes-water-crystal-clear-and-delicious/</link>
  1562. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  1563. <pubDate>Mon, 13 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  1564. <category><![CDATA[Gadgets]]></category>
  1565. <category><![CDATA[Gift Idea]]></category>
  1566. <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
  1567. <category><![CDATA[Smart Home]]></category>
  1568. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18470</guid>
  1569.  
  1570. <description><![CDATA[<p>If you say, &#8220;All water tastes the same.&#8221; You can stop reading this and go on about your day. There&#8217;s nothing I can do or say to help you. All &#8230; </p>
  1571. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/from-tap-to-pure-delight-the-device-that-makes-water-crystal-clear-and-delicious/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "From Tap to Pure Delight: The Device That Makes Water Crystal Clear and Delicious"</span></a></p>
  1572. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/from-tap-to-pure-delight-the-device-that-makes-water-crystal-clear-and-delicious/">From Tap to Pure Delight: The Device That Makes Water Crystal Clear and Delicious</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  1573. ]]></description>
  1574. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  1575. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://amzn.to/47yeai9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua_front.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18472"/></a></figure>
  1576.  
  1577.  
  1578.  
  1579. <p>If you say, &#8220;All water tastes the same.&#8221; You can stop reading this and go on about your day. There&#8217;s nothing I can do or say to help you. All jokes aside, I&#8217;m pretty picky regarding the taste of water. I&#8217;m originally from Detroit, and I believe Detroit has some of the best-tasting tap water in the country. When I moved to Atlanta, I could definitely tell the difference. Atlanta&#8217;s water is OK, but nowhere near as good as Detroit&#8217;s water. </p>
  1580.  
  1581.  
  1582.  
  1583. <p>All tap water has stuff in it that should be filtered out. Depending on the location, the pipes and plumbing have manganese, copper, and lead, which can corrode over time and leach different metals into your drinking water. Acidic water (i.e., water with a pH below 7) causes pipes to corrode quickly, giving the water a sour, tangy, or metallic taste.</p>
  1584.  
  1585.  
  1586.  
  1587. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bottled-water">Bottled Water</h2>
  1588.  
  1589.  
  1590.  
  1591. <p>I had become more reliant on bottled water; even different bottled water brands have different tastes. I&#8217;m about to list some brands; some of you will agree, while others will disagree, and that&#8217;s fine. It just proves my point that water definitely has a taste, and because of these different tastes, different brands will appeal to some while completely turning others off. It&#8217;s usually the purity and mineral count that affect the taste:</p>
  1592.  
  1593.  
  1594.  
  1595. <p><strong>My favorite brands of water:</strong></p>
  1596.  
  1597.  
  1598.  
  1599. <span id="more-18470"></span>
  1600.  
  1601.  
  1602.  
  1603. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="239" height="399" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/ice_mountain.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18477"/></figure>
  1604.  
  1605.  
  1606.  
  1607. <p>Ice Mountain, Acqua Panna, Icelandic, Fiji, Voss, Smart Water, Essentia, Sprouts, Aquafina, and the controversial Dasani (yes, I actually like it). Kroger and Publix aren’t bad either. </p>
  1608.  
  1609.  
  1610.  
  1611. <p><strong>My least favorite brands of water (disgusting taste):</strong></p>
  1612.  
  1613.  
  1614.  
  1615. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="184" height="399" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/evian.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18478"/></figure>
  1616.  
  1617.  
  1618.  
  1619. <p>Evian (the worst; I&#8217;d rather be thirsty), Target, Deer Park, Arrowhead, Zephyrhills, or </p>
  1620.  
  1621.  
  1622.  
  1623. <p>Also, note that I HATE sparkling water.</p>
  1624.  
  1625.  
  1626.  
  1627. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basic-water-filters-don-t-cut-it">Basic Water Filters Don&#8217;t Cut It</h2>
  1628.  
  1629.  
  1630.  
  1631. <p>My refrigerator has a water filter in it. I&#8217;ve also bought filters from companies like Brita, and they help, but they don&#8217;t make a big enough difference.</p>
  1632.  
  1633.  
  1634.  
  1635. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-bluevua-reverse-osmosis-filtration-system-made-the-difference">This Bluevua Reverse Osmosis Filtration System Made the Difference</h2>
  1636.  
  1637.  
  1638.  
  1639. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="500" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua-4-filters.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18474" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua-4-filters.jpg 500w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua-4-filters-150x150.jpg 150w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua-4-filters-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bluvua 4-stage reverse osmosis water filters</figcaption></figure>
  1640.  
  1641.  
  1642.  
  1643. <p>I know that reverse osmosis is the best form of water filtration that you can get for your home. I always wanted to get a reverse osmosis system for the whole house that connects to the water main coming into the house. While this is still my ultimate goal, I stumbled upon this countertop <a href="https://amzn.to/47yeai9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bluevua RO100ROPOT</a> unit that does NOT have to be hooked into the plumbing. Just put it on your counter and plug it into power. You fill the removable holding tank from the faucet, put it back in place, and press one button. The water then goes through the four filter system, and the clean water pours down into the carafe. </p>
  1644.  
  1645.  
  1646.  
  1647. <p>Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that removes contaminants from water by using pressure to force water molecules through a semipermeable membrane. This membrane allows water molecules to pass through while blocking larger molecules, such as dissolved salts, bacteria, and chemicals.</p>
  1648.  
  1649.  
  1650.  
  1651. <p>Here&#8217;s how it works:</p>
  1652.  
  1653.  
  1654.  
  1655. <ol>
  1656. <li><strong>Pre-filtration</strong>: Water first passes through a pre-filter to remove large particles like dirt and sediment.</li>
  1657.  
  1658.  
  1659.  
  1660. <li><strong>Reverse Osmosis Membrane</strong>: The pre-filtered water is then forced through the reverse osmosis membrane under pressure. This membrane is very fine and only allows water molecules to pass through, effectively trapping contaminants on the other side.</li>
  1661.  
  1662.  
  1663.  
  1664. <li><strong>Post-filtration</strong>: After passing through the membrane, the water goes through a post-filter to polish the drinking water before it enters a dedicated faucet.</li>
  1665.  
  1666.  
  1667.  
  1668. <li><strong>Storage</strong>: The purified water is stored in a holding tank until needed.</li>
  1669. </ol>
  1670.  
  1671.  
  1672.  
  1673. <p>Reverse osmosis systems are effective at removing a variety of contaminants, including salts, bacteria, viruses, cysts, and chemicals. This results in water that is not only safe to drink but often tastes better due to the removal of impurities that can cause taste and odor issues.</p>
  1674.  
  1675.  
  1676.  
  1677. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="197" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/4stages-filtering.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18476"/></figure>
  1678.  
  1679.  
  1680.  
  1681. <p>The Bluevua RO100ROPOT consistently produces the cleanest and best-tasting tap water that I&#8217;ve ever had. It also comes with an optional remineralization filter to put the minerals back in your drinking water if you want/need. </p>
  1682.  
  1683.  
  1684.  
  1685. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cost-justification">Cost Justification</h2>
  1686.  
  1687.  
  1688.  
  1689. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="554" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bluevua.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18475"/></figure>
  1690.  
  1691.  
  1692.  
  1693. <p>I got the <a href="https://amzn.to/47yeai9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bluevua RO100ROPOT</a> on sale for $330.65. I was buying cases of different brands of bottled water at an average of $7/case. We would go through 1.5-2 cases a week. That&#8217;s $546-$728 a year. This means that the Bluevua pays for itself in the first year of use. The filters last 12+ months and cost $150 to replace all four. Keep in mind that the math is actually a little better because the 3rd stage filter (which is the most expensive one at $59.99) can last up to 24 months. Technically, it would be $89.97 annually for (stage 1, stage 2, and stage 4) and $59.99 every two years for the stage 3 filter. So, even if I did replace all four annually, it would still be a fraction of what I was spending on bottled water. </p>
  1694.  
  1695.  
  1696.  
  1697. <p>The Bottom Line</p>
  1698.  
  1699.  
  1700.  
  1701. <p>I&#8217;ve had the <a href="https://amzn.to/47yeai9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bluevua RO100ROPOT</a> since September, and if I had to do it all over again, I would absolutely buy it again if I didn&#8217;t go all in and get one for the whole house. I recommend getting <a href="https://amzn.to/3uloJGI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a second glass carafe</a> so that one can always be ready to go and one can always be chilling in the refrigerator. Since it just requires power and no plumbing, you can place it just about anywhere. I have no regrets, and it is highly recommended. All water should taste this good and clean.</p>
  1702.  
  1703.  
  1704.  
  1705. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  1706. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1uRQ6cxFFSA?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  1707. </div></figure>
  1708. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/from-tap-to-pure-delight-the-device-that-makes-water-crystal-clear-and-delicious/">From Tap to Pure Delight: The Device That Makes Water Crystal Clear and Delicious</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  1709. ]]></content:encoded>
  1710. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18470</post-id> </item>
  1711. <item>
  1712. <title>Not Getting The Internet Speeds You&#8217;re Paying For? Here&#8217;s Why&#8230;</title>
  1713. <link>https://terrywhite.com/not-getting-the-internet-speeds-youre-paying-for-heres-why/</link>
  1714. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  1715. <pubDate>Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  1716. <category><![CDATA[Networking]]></category>
  1717. <category><![CDATA[Wi-Fi]]></category>
  1718. <category><![CDATA[10GB Ethernet]]></category>
  1719. <category><![CDATA[2.5 GB Ethernet]]></category>
  1720. <category><![CDATA[Ethernet]]></category>
  1721. <category><![CDATA[Gigabit]]></category>
  1722. <category><![CDATA[Switch]]></category>
  1723. <category><![CDATA[wi-fi]]></category>
  1724. <category><![CDATA[xfinity]]></category>
  1725. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18402</guid>
  1726.  
  1727. <description><![CDATA[<p>Are Your Internet Speeds Trapped In Your Router? When you sign up for an internet plan with your ISP (Internet Service Provider), you typically sign up for the speeds you &#8230; </p>
  1728. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/not-getting-the-internet-speeds-youre-paying-for-heres-why/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Not Getting The Internet Speeds You&#8217;re Paying For? Here&#8217;s Why&#8230;"</span></a></p>
  1729. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/not-getting-the-internet-speeds-youre-paying-for-heres-why/">Not Getting The Internet Speeds You&#8217;re Paying For? Here&#8217;s Why&#8230;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  1730. ]]></description>
  1731. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  1732. <p>Are Your Internet Speeds Trapped In Your Router?</p>
  1733.  
  1734.  
  1735.  
  1736. <p>When you sign up for an internet plan with your ISP (Internet Service Provider), you typically sign up for the speeds you need to work and/or cover your entertainment streaming/gaming. However, if you run a <a href="https://speedtest.net">speed test</a> right now, chances are the results will be lower than what you signed up for. </p>
  1737.  
  1738.  
  1739.  
  1740. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-i-m-on-the-fastest-internet-plan-available-in-my-area">I&#8217;m on the fastest internet plan available in my area.</h2>
  1741.  
  1742.  
  1743.  
  1744. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="606" height="362" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Xfinity-plan.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18403" style="aspect-ratio:1.6740331491712708;width:388px;height:auto"/></figure>
  1745.  
  1746.  
  1747.  
  1748. <p>This means that my internet speeds can be as high as 1200 Mbps down and 35 Mbps up (geez, this upload speed really needs to be improved). However, up until recently, I never saw that download speed. Like never!</p>
  1749.  
  1750.  
  1751.  
  1752. <p>There can be many factors affecting your internet speed. I&#8217;m going to cover the top three reasons:</p>
  1753.  
  1754.  
  1755.  
  1756. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-you-re-on-wi-fi">1. You&#8217;re on Wi-Fi</h2>
  1757.  
  1758.  
  1759.  
  1760. <span id="more-18402"></span>
  1761.  
  1762.  
  1763.  
  1764. <p>Basic Wi-Fi routers rarely allow you to achieve the speeds that you expect. However, it&#8217;s not always the router manufacturer&#8217;s fault. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that is susceptible to interference. The walls/floors in your home impact your Wi-Fi coverage and speeds. Other devices, such as microwave ovens, can interfere with your Wi-Fi signals. Your distance from your Wi-Fi router or Mesh node will definitely affect your wireless performance. The number of wireless devices you have will impact your speeds, too. Lastly, your smartphone, tablet, or computer&#8217;s Wi-Fi technology may not be fast enough to match the speeds of your Wi-Fi router/mesh system. For example, if you have 1,000 Mbps internet, yet your phone, tablet, or computer only has Wi-Fi 5 technology, you&#8217;re not likely to get anything close to 1,000 Mbps speeds over Wi-Fi.  Even if you have the newest device, yet you&#8217;re not right next to your router/mesh node, then the speed will likely be lower. The further you are away from your Wi-Fi access point, the slower your speed will be. This is just the way Wi-Fi (wireless signal) works.</p>
  1765.  
  1766.  
  1767.  
  1768. <p>You CAN get faster speeds even on Wi-Fi! Wi-Fi standards continue to evolve. By now, you&#8217;ve probably heard of Wi-Fi bands such as 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and even 6 GHz. Each of these bands has pros and cons. For example, the 2.4 GHz band is the slowest at 450-600 Mbps, but it covers the widest areas and goes through walls further. It&#8217;s also the most crowded band. </p>
  1769.  
  1770.  
  1771.  
  1772. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="305" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.4GHzSpeedtest.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18409"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above is a speed test connected to my very crowded 2.4 GHz SSID</figcaption></figure>
  1773.  
  1774.  
  1775.  
  1776. <p>Most cheap IoT (internet of things) devices, such as smart home accessories, use the 2.4 GHz band. 2.4 GHz is fine as long as you don&#8217;t need speed. For example, my smart garage door opener is not really going to benefit from a faster connection. Next up is the 5 GHz band, and you probably already guessed that this band is faster at up to 1300 Mbps. While it is faster, the downside is that it doesn&#8217;t reach as far or go through walls/floors as easily as 2.4 GHz. Typically, I have kept my Wi-Fi bands combined under a single SSID (Wi-Fi network). This is by far the easiest and most recommended strategy. With one combined Wi-Fi network, your device connects to the best band that it can. So, if you&#8217;re far away from your router/mesh node, then your device will connect to the 2.4 GHz band, and if you&#8217;re close, it will connect to the 5 GHz band. </p>
  1777.  
  1778.  
  1779.  
  1780. <p><strong>If Wi-Fi 5 GHz is up to 1300 Mbps, then why do I never see those speeds?</strong></p>
  1781.  
  1782.  
  1783.  
  1784. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="311" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/5GHzSpeedtest.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18410"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above is a speed test connected to my 5GHz SSID</figcaption></figure>
  1785.  
  1786.  
  1787.  
  1788. <p>That&#8217;s a GREAT question. Even standing right next to my router/mesh node/access point, I have never gotten close to that speed under Wi-Fi 5 GHz. I&#8217;m sure under ideal test conditions, these speeds are capable, but in a real-world scenario, i.e., your house/office with all that&#8217;s going on.</p>
  1789.  
  1790.  
  1791.  
  1792. <p><strong>So, does this mean that it&#8217;s impossible to get these speeds on Wi-Fi?</strong></p>
  1793.  
  1794.  
  1795.  
  1796. <p>There is GOOD news: these higher speeds are possible on Wi-Fi if you&#8217;re on the newer Wi-Fi standards such as Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and the soon-to-be-ratified 7. I never saw anything close to my supposed 1200 Mbps down until I upgraded to a Wi-Fi 6E access point (<a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">see my post on upgrading my Wi-Fi network here</a>.) I was blown away when I did a speed test using the only Wi-Fi 6E device I had at the time, my<a href="https://amzn.to/49fml4E" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> iPad Pro M2</a>. Wi-Fi 7 promises even faster speeds. Just keep in mind that in addition to a Wi-Fi 7 router, you&#8217;ll also need devices that have Wi-Fi 7 in them. </p>
  1797.  
  1798.  
  1799.  
  1800. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="490" height="1000" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-1-490x1000.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18406" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-1-490x1000.jpg 490w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-1-319x650.jpg 319w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-1.jpg 650w" sizes="(max-width: 490px) 100vw, 490px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Speed Test on my iPhone 15 Pro via Wi-Fi 6E connected to my Unifi 6 Enterprise Access Point</figcaption></figure>
  1801.  
  1802.  
  1803.  
  1804. <p>Since then, I have gotten these speeds on my Wi-Fi 6E-capable Samsung Galaxy S22 and iPhone 15 Pro.</p>
  1805.  
  1806.  
  1807.  
  1808. <p>Even though I can now get the speeds I&#8217;m paying for wirelessly, the same things apply to what I said above. If I&#8217;m near the <a href="https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/category/all-wifi/products/u6-enterprise" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wi-Fi 6E Access Point</a>, then I get these speeds. </p>
  1809.  
  1810.  
  1811.  
  1812. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="317" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/6Etest-furtheraway.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18411"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This speed test was done while connected to Wi-Fi 6E on my iPhone 15 Pro, but down one floor and further away from the Access Point.</figcaption></figure>
  1813.  
  1814.  
  1815.  
  1816. <p>The further I get from the Access Point, the slower the speeds get. However, even the slower Wi-Fi 6E speeds are usually faster than I get on Wi-Fi 5/6.</p>
  1817.  
  1818.  
  1819.  
  1820. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lastly">Lastly…</h2>
  1821.  
  1822.  
  1823.  
  1824. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="523" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/31ad6486-2e77-4ca3-8115-92d31e9a8e29-1-1000x523.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18462" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/31ad6486-2e77-4ca3-8115-92d31e9a8e29-1-1000x523.png 1000w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/31ad6486-2e77-4ca3-8115-92d31e9a8e29-1-650x340.png 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/31ad6486-2e77-4ca3-8115-92d31e9a8e29-1-768x402.png 768w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/31ad6486-2e77-4ca3-8115-92d31e9a8e29-1.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 767px) 89vw, (max-width: 1000px) 54vw, (max-width: 1071px) 543px, 580px" /></figure>
  1825.  
  1826.  
  1827.  
  1828. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-what-about-ethernet">2. What about Ethernet?</h2>
  1829.  
  1830.  
  1831.  
  1832. <p>More often than not, connecting your device to your router or ethernet switch&#8217;s ethernet port will yield significantly faster speeds than you&#8217;re getting on Wi-Fi. </p>
  1833.  
  1834.  
  1835.  
  1836. <p>I have a rule in my house: <strong><em>&#8220;If it has an ethernet port, it&#8217;s connected to ethernet.&#8221;</em></strong></p>
  1837.  
  1838.  
  1839.  
  1840. <p>This is a no-brainer. When I can connect a computer or other device to ethernet, life is great. The speeds are much faster and consistent. This is crucial in my work-from-home setting when I&#8217;m doing live streams and Zoom/Microsoft Teams meetings. My connection is always good and buttery smooth. </p>
  1841.  
  1842.  
  1843.  
  1844. <p><strong>Even if you&#8217;re on Ethernet, you still may not be getting the speeds you&#8217;re paying for!</strong></p>
  1845.  
  1846.  
  1847.  
  1848. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="395" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/1GB-935down.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18404"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Speed Test down while plugged into a 1GB Ethernet port.</figcaption></figure>
  1849.  
  1850.  
  1851.  
  1852. <p>Woah, what? My Xfinity plan says that I can get up to 1200 Mbps down, right? I even have a <a href="https://amzn.to/45KIzZe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Motorola Surfboard DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Port</a>. </p>
  1853.  
  1854.  
  1855.  
  1856. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="185" height="500" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/motorola-cable-modem.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18420"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Motorola Cable Modem with a 2.5 GB Ethernet Port</figcaption></figure>
  1857.  
  1858.  
  1859.  
  1860. <p>This is connected to my <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Dream Machine SE Console (Router)&#8217;s</a> 2.5 Gbps Ethernet WAN port. The problem is that up until recently, all of the other ethernet ports on all my equipment were 1GB Ethernet ports. This means that they max out at 1000 Mbps up/down. That means that the fastest speed I&#8217;ve seen is 9xx Mbps down.</p>
  1861.  
  1862.  
  1863.  
  1864. <p><strong>Where&#8217;s my missing 200 Mbps down?</strong></p>
  1865.  
  1866.  
  1867.  
  1868. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-my-true-internet-speed-was-trapped-in-my-router">3. My True Internet Speed Was TRAPPED in my Router</h2>
  1869.  
  1870.  
  1871.  
  1872. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="308" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/EntAP-back.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18418"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">By connecting my Access Point to 1GB Ethernet instead of 2.5GB Ethernet, I would never see anything over 1000 Gbps internet. </figcaption></figure>
  1873.  
  1874.  
  1875.  
  1876. <p>When <a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">I upgraded everything to Unifi gear</a>, I bought their <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi 6 Enterprise Wi-Fi 6E Access Point</a>. It has a 2.5 Gpbs PoE Ethernet port and Wi-Fi 6E. So it&#8217;s more than capable of giving me faster Wi-Fi speeds. However, the problem is that I plugged it into one of the 1 Gbps Ethernet ports on my new <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Dream Machine SE Gateway (Router)</a>. The Dream Machine SE doesn&#8217;t have any 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports. It does have a 10 Gpbs SFP+ port, but this port, even with an <a href="https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/category/accessories-cables-dacs/products/rj45-to-sfp-module?variant=UACC-CM-RJ45-MG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RJ-45 Ethernet module</a>, doesn&#8217;t have PoE. I could have made this work by also getting a <a href="https://amzn.to/3Qz40bo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2.5 Gbps PoE inj</a>ector to power the Access Point while connected to this faster port, but I decided that this wouldn&#8217;t fix my Ethernet problem. So, I started transitioning to <a href="https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/category/all-switching/products/switch-enterprise-8-poe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2.5 Gbps</a> and <a href="https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/category/all-switching/products/unifi-flex-xg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">10 Gbps Ethernet switches</a>.</p>
  1877.  
  1878.  
  1879.  
  1880. <p><strong>My first 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Switch Was a Game Changer!</strong></p>
  1881.  
  1882.  
  1883.  
  1884. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="187" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Unifi-2.5GB-switch.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18413"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I connected this new 2.5GB switch to my Unifi Dream Machine SE via the SFP+ port. I connected my Enterprise Wi-Fi 6E Access Point to one of the 8 2.5GB Ethernet ports. Thus allowing the full bandwidth of my Xfinity service to Wi-Fi 6E.</figcaption></figure>
  1885.  
  1886.  
  1887.  
  1888. <p>I opted to buy the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite">NEW Unifi 8 Port 2.5 Gbps PoE Switch</a>. I connected this beast with a copper-based SFP+ cable to my Unifi Dream Machine SE&#8217;s 10 Gbps SFP+ port.</p>
  1889.  
  1890.  
  1891.  
  1892. <p>I plugged my Unifi Wi-Fi 6E Access Point into the new switch and ran the above speed test from my iPhone 15 Pro (which has Wi-Fi 6E). Not only did I get a faster result, I even got faster than my rated ISP speeds. I was blown away! What a difference an Ethernet port makes. This is not only the fastest Wi-Fi speed I&#8217;ve seen on an iPhone, but it&#8217;s faster than I was getting on my computer connected to 1GB Ethernet. </p>
  1893.  
  1894.  
  1895.  
  1896. <p><strong>What kind of speed am I getting on Ethernet now?</strong></p>
  1897.  
  1898.  
  1899.  
  1900. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="326" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MacStudio10GB.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18432"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mac Studio with a 10GB Ethernet port built-in standard</figcaption></figure>
  1901.  
  1902.  
  1903.  
  1904. <p>Although I added both a  2.5 Gbps and 10 Gbps Ethernet switch, that&#8217;s only half of the solution. Your computer&#8217;s ethernet port is probably only 1 GB Ethernet. We have a Mac Studio here, and thankfully, <strong>the Mac Studio has a 10 Gbps Ethernet port built-in.</strong> Yay! Even the <a href="https://www.apple.com/mac-mini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mac mini</a> can be ordered with a 10GB Ethernet port built-in for an extra $100.</p>
  1905.  
  1906.  
  1907.  
  1908. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="374" height="127" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MacStudioSpeedtest.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18407"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This is the Speedtest from the Mac Studio connected to the 10 GB switch. </figcaption></figure>
  1909.  
  1910.  
  1911.  
  1912. <p>Now I&#8217;m getting faster speeds over Ethernet. Why go 10 GB since my ISP maxes out at 1200+ Mbps down? </p>
  1913.  
  1914.  
  1915.  
  1916. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="204" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/10GB-unifi-switch.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18419"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi 5 Port 10 GB Switch</a> with four 10GB Ethernet ports and one 1GB Ethernet Port.</figcaption></figure>
  1917.  
  1918.  
  1919.  
  1920. <p>While my internet speeds won&#8217;t be much faster than we see above, the 10 GB ethernet will be ten times faster when transferring data across the network to my other 10 GB devices, such as <a href="https://amzn.to/3FGdV8w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">my Synology NAS</a> (which <a href="https://amzn.to/49fVWDy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">I&#8217;m upgrading to a 10 GB Ethernet port</a>). </p>
  1921.  
  1922.  
  1923.  
  1924. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="326" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MBA-2.5GB-speedtest.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18412" style="aspect-ratio:1.9938650306748467;width:378px;height:auto"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This is the fastest speed test yet from my MacBook Air M1 connected to the Unifi 2.5GB Ethernet switch via an <a href="https://amzn.to/3QAjMBJ">Anker 2.5GB Ethernet USB-C adapter</a>.</figcaption></figure>
  1925.  
  1926.  
  1927.  
  1928. <p>Since my MacBook Pro and MacBook Air M1 don&#8217;t have built-in ethernet ports, I can use either a <a href="https://amzn.to/3QAjMBJ">2.5 GB Ethernet adapter</a> or a <a href="https://amzn.to/47bhyPw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2.5 GB Ethernet hub</a> or even a <a href="https://amzn.to/3s3FmGu">10 GB Ethernet adapter</a>. For now, I&#8217;ll stick with 2.5 GB ethernet to save money. Also, remember that if you plan to go to 10GB ethernet, you&#8217;ll need at least CAT-6 (<a href="https://amzn.to/45U4qNT" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preferably CAT-6A</a>) Ethernet cabling. If you&#8217;re about to wire your home to Ethernet, consider going <a href="https://amzn.to/45U4qNT" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAT-6A</a>. This allows 10 Gbp/s (Gigabits per second) up to 328 feet (100 meters). CAT-6 max speed is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.truecable.com/blogs/cable-academy/ethernet-mhz-speed-does-it-make-a-difference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">250 MHz</a>. Therefore, it only supports 10 Gbp/s to 165 feet (55 meters) under ideal conditions—less in heavy cross-talk environments.</p>
  1929.  
  1930.  
  1931.  
  1932. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-t-run-ethernet-cabling-no-problem-because-you-probably-have-existing-coax-jacks-in-your-rooms">Can&#8217;t run Ethernet cabling? No problem, because you probably have existing coax jacks in your rooms.</h2>
  1933.  
  1934.  
  1935.  
  1936. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/coax-jack-kitchen-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18456"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of two coax jacks in my kitchen since day one. No, I have no idea why it has a flat head and Phillips screw. LOL</figcaption></figure>
  1937.  
  1938.  
  1939.  
  1940. <p>I hear ya. Having ethernet cabling run while your home is being built and before the walls are up is easy and relatively cheap. When my house was built, each ethernet drop was $100. </p>
  1941.  
  1942.  
  1943.  
  1944. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="417" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ethernet-drops.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17543"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The four rooms I had wired during construction terminate in a closet, in which I have installed the bulk of my network equipment in. Today, I would have had CAT 6A cabling run to many more locations. At least one drop on each wall in each room if I had it to do over again today.</figcaption></figure>
  1945.  
  1946.  
  1947.  
  1948. <p>I had four rooms run at the time. I only wish that I had done many more drops at that price. I needed an Ethernet run to my back kitchen wall to put an Access Point outside on my patio. The problem is I didn&#8217;t realize I needed this run until well after the house was built. There was no easy way to have a new line run at this point. However, there was an existing coax jack for cable TV. As a matter of fact, there&#8217;s a coax jack in all but two rooms in my house. The builder put these in standard. Each cable from each room runs to a central point (cable box on the side of the house.) </p>
  1949.  
  1950.  
  1951.  
  1952. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="138" height="179" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IMG_8315-e1698619860195.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-16887"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The cable box on the side of the house that all the coax cables terminate.</figcaption></figure>
  1953.  
  1954.  
  1955.  
  1956. <p>The cables were just sitting there in the box with no connectors on them. Also, my electrician informed me that each jack has the coax cable curled up in the box behind the jack and is not connected. I added <a href="https://amzn.to/4793ar9">coax connectors for each cable using this kit/tool</a> and for each coax jack in the rooms where I wanted Ethernet. </p>
  1957.  
  1958.  
  1959.  
  1960. <p></p>
  1961.  
  1962.  
  1963.  
  1964. <p>I bought this <a href="https://amzn.to/46NScaZ">Coax cable tester</a> (the tester saves a LOT OF TIME when trying to figure out if the cables are connected or not) to make it easy to know which cable runs to each room. I then connected all the cables in the box on the side of the house to <a href="https://amzn.to/47aXo8E">a standard coax splitter</a>. If the cables don&#8217;t actually connect to each other, then the coax Ethernet adapters won&#8217;t work.</p>
  1965.  
  1966.  
  1967.  
  1968. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/goCoax-2.5GB-inmyhand.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18443"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I&#8217;ve used these goCoax boxes for years. I hadn&#8217;t noticed that they had upgraded them to support 2.5GB Ethernet. So, I replaced two of my 1GB Ethernet versions with the new ones.</figcaption></figure>
  1969.  
  1970.  
  1971.  
  1972. <p>Install <a href="https://amzn.to/3Mlaw2M">goCoax to 2.5 GB Ethernet Adapters instead! </a>Yep, there are boxes that allow you to use that existing coax that probably already runs throughout your house and convert it to RJ45 ethernet on each end. </p>
  1973.  
  1974.  
  1975.  
  1976. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="385" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/goCoax-2pack-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18442"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">goCoax 2.5GB Ethernet to Coax connectors</figcaption></figure>
  1977.  
  1978.  
  1979.  
  1980. <p>You&#8217;ll need at least two of these adapters. One will plug into your switch/router, and the other will plug into a switch or device you want to run Ethernet to. For example, I have one that is plugged into an outdoor PoE camera where there was no Ethernet. The other one connects to the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite">new 2.5 GB Ethernet switch</a> in my office.</p>
  1981.  
  1982.  
  1983.  
  1984. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="790" height="339" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/goCoax-2.5GB-speedtest.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18444" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/goCoax-2.5GB-speedtest.jpg 790w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/goCoax-2.5GB-speedtest-650x279.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/goCoax-2.5GB-speedtest-768x330.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 767px) 89vw, (max-width: 1000px) 54vw, (max-width: 1071px) 543px, 580px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first thing I did once I got the <a href="https://amzn.to/3Mlaw2M">goCoax 2.5GB versions</a> was to run a speed test of the connection. Wow! It&#8217;s just as fast as the native CAT 6 Ethernet.</figcaption></figure>
  1985.  
  1986.  
  1987.  
  1988. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bottom-line">The Bottom Line</h2>
  1989.  
  1990.  
  1991.  
  1992. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="400" height="311" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/router-getting-out-of-jail.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18438"/></figure>
  1993.  
  1994.  
  1995.  
  1996. <p>The first and likely easiest thing you can do to get the speed you&#8217;re paying for is to connect your device via Ethernet whenever possible. If you&#8217;re paying for faster than Gigabit Ethernet speed, you&#8217;ll likely need to update your devices and network actually to benefit from those speeds. I can&#8217;t wait until fiber internet comes to my neighborhood. Some of the readers of this post are getting speeds of 5 Gbps and higher up/down internet. Wow! That would be sweet. If I got fiber and didn&#8217;t upgrade my network, I&#8217;d still never see speeds past 1 Gbps. </p>
  1997.  
  1998.  
  1999.  
  2000. <p>Until I upgraded my switches to at least 2.5 GB Ethernet, <strong>my higher download speed was trapped inside my router</strong>. I would never see the speeds I was paying for if I didn&#8217;t upgrade to a faster ethernet switch and Wi-Fi access point. My 1GB Ethernet ports were the bottleneck.</p>
  2001.  
  2002.  
  2003.  
  2004. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="225" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/iPadProspeedtest-xFi.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17544"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This was a Wi-Fi 6E test on my iPad Pro M2 while connected to the Xfinity xFi before I upgraded to Unifi. This speed was achieved after setting up the xFi with nothing else connected to it. As soon as I added all my other wireless devices, I never saw that speed again. This led to <a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">my upgrading to a better, more capable system</a>. </figcaption></figure>
  2005.  
  2006.  
  2007.  
  2008. <p>Just to be fair, the <a href="https://www.xfinity.com/learn/internet-service/modems-and-routers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xfinity xFi gateway</a> that comes with my service does have Wi-Fi 6E and one 2.5GB Ethernet port. However, since it&#8217;s only one access point, you won&#8217;t see those speeds when you go to other parts of the house. You would also need 2.5 GB ethernet switches to have enough ports for your computers. For most people, the xFi gateway is probably enough. However, it just couldn&#8217;t handle the size of my network.</p>
  2009.  
  2010.  
  2011.  
  2012. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="398" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Yuanley8portSwitch.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18408"/></figure>
  2013.  
  2014.  
  2015.  
  2016. <p>Speaking of 2.5 GB Ethernet Switches, while I love my Unifi equipment (they make GREAT rock solid networking gear), in my opinion, their <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new 8 Port 2.5 GB PoE+ Switch</a> is way overpriced. I bought one, but I simply can&#8217;t justify buying any more of them at that price ($474 as of this post). <strong>I found this <a href="https://amzn.to/3FzMxcj" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YuanLey 6 port 2.5 GB PoE+ switch for only $80</a>.</strong> Only time will tell if it will last and work as flawlessly as the Unifi gear, but like I said, I can&#8217;t justify paying $474 for the other three 2.5 GB Ethernet switches that I need. Even if it fails, I can still get a name-brand 2.5 GB PoE+ switch for less than $474.</p>
  2017.  
  2018.  
  2019.  
  2020. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="619" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Server-Closet.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18445"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My server closet/rack with the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi 10GB Switch</a> on the top shelf next to the Mac mini (which runs Homebridge). I&#8217;ll upgrade the Synology NAS on the second shelf to 10GB Ethernet this week and plug it into the 10GB Switch.</figcaption></figure>
  2021.  
  2022.  
  2023.  
  2024. <p>Otherwise, I&#8217;m ecstatic to be getting the speeds that I&#8217;m paying for and to get faster networking in general. If you&#8217;re planning to upgrade your networking equipment, consider planning for the future and going with faster ethernet and faster Wi-Fi. Remember that even 2.5GB Ethernet is twice as fast as 1GB Ethernet. </p>
  2025. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/not-getting-the-internet-speeds-youre-paying-for-heres-why/">Not Getting The Internet Speeds You&#8217;re Paying For? Here&#8217;s Why&#8230;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2026. ]]></content:encoded>
  2027. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18402</post-id> </item>
  2028. <item>
  2029. <title>I Switched to Unifi Protect and Dumped my Google Nest Cams</title>
  2030. <link>https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/</link>
  2031. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  2032. <pubDate>Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  2033. <category><![CDATA[Home Automation]]></category>
  2034. <category><![CDATA[HomeKit]]></category>
  2035. <category><![CDATA[Networking]]></category>
  2036. <category><![CDATA[Security]]></category>
  2037. <category><![CDATA[Smart Home]]></category>
  2038. <category><![CDATA[G4 Professional Doorbell]]></category>
  2039. <category><![CDATA[G5 Bullet]]></category>
  2040. <category><![CDATA[G5 Flex]]></category>
  2041. <category><![CDATA[HKSV]]></category>
  2042. <category><![CDATA[HomeKit Secure Video]]></category>
  2043. <category><![CDATA[NVR]]></category>
  2044. <category><![CDATA[POE]]></category>
  2045. <category><![CDATA[Protect]]></category>
  2046. <category><![CDATA[Unifi]]></category>
  2047. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18367</guid>
  2048.  
  2049. <description><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;m a fan of having security cameras around my property that allow me to look at my surroundings at any time, day or night, and best of all, when I&#8217;m &#8230; </p>
  2050. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "I Switched to Unifi Protect and Dumped my Google Nest Cams"</span></a></p>
  2051. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/">I Switched to Unifi Protect and Dumped my Google Nest Cams</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2052. ]]></description>
  2053. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  2054. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5_bullet_front_porch.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18380"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi Protect G5 Bullet POE Camera under my front awning.</figcaption></figure>
  2055.  
  2056.  
  2057.  
  2058. <p>I&#8217;m a fan of having security cameras around my property that allow me to look at my surroundings at any time, day or night, and best of all, when I&#8217;m traveling. I&#8217;ve used various cameras/brands over the years, and at one point, I had cameras from Ring, Google, Logitech, and Eufy simultaneously. While I had each camera for a different reason and feature set, it was really a mess. Of course, each camera had its own app, and the only thing that made this setup bearable was that I could bring them all into Apple Home to see them all simultaneously.</p>
  2059.  
  2060.  
  2061.  
  2062. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-my-experience-event-based-cameras-suck">In My Experience, Event-based Cameras Suck!</h2>
  2063.  
  2064.  
  2065.  
  2066. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="463" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ring-floodlight-cam.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18381"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ring Floodlight Cam Events</figcaption></figure>
  2067.  
  2068.  
  2069.  
  2070. <p>The first cameras to get booted were the <a href="https://amzn.to/3SiB8Fk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Logitech Circle View</a> cameras. While these cameras tend to work well most of the time, they were the flakiest when it came to staying connected to WiFi. They required regular reboots because of regular WiFi disconnects. The second problem is that while they worked natively with Apple&#8217;s Home and HomeKit Secure Video, this means that they only recorded if they thought an event was taking place. This sounds reasonable. If something triggers the motion sensor, it should start recording. The problem with &#8220;event-based cameras&#8221; is that sometimes they miss events. In other words, when you go back to look at the footage at a time when you know something happened, the clip is nowhere to be found because it didn&#8217;t record. </p>
  2071.  
  2072.  
  2073.  
  2074. <p>A prime example of this was when a very large package arrived at my house by mistake, and it was for a neighbor. I informed my neighbor that their package was next to my garage and that they could pick it up anytime. While my neighborhood is relatively safe, I still wanted confirmation that the right person took the package. When I went to review the footage from the Ring cam, the package was there one second, and the next, it was gone. There was no recording of the package actually being taken. This package was so big that it would have taken two people to carry it. So it&#8217;s not like it didn&#8217;t record the event because it was grabbed quickly. This is when I realized just how much event-based recording sucks! They are hit-and-miss.</p>
  2075.  
  2076.  
  2077.  
  2078. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cameras-that-record-24-7-are-better">Cameras that record 24/7 are better!</h2>
  2079.  
  2080.  
  2081.  
  2082. <span id="more-18367"></span>
  2083.  
  2084.  
  2085.  
  2086. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="370" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/porch-cam-g5-flex.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18390"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of the cams I originally installed was the one I call the &#8220;porch cam.&#8221; I&#8217;ve never had a porch pirate, but if it ever happened, I&#8217;d have video from an angle that they wouldn&#8217;t even notice that the camera is up and behind them. I replaced the Google Cam with a Unifi G5 Flex POE camera. </figcaption></figure>
  2087.  
  2088.  
  2089.  
  2090. <p>One of the reasons why I really liked the <a href="https://amzn.to/3McUQPa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Nest cameras</a> is that they record 24/7. This means that you can go to any point in time and look at the footage, whether it thinks an event happened or not. </p>
  2091.  
  2092.  
  2093.  
  2094. <p>I replaced all my Logitech cams and all but a couple of my Ring cams with Google Nest cams. I even replaced my <a href="https://amzn.to/474QNwr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Logitech Circle View Doorbell</a> with the newest <a href="https://amzn.to/46WsS1Y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Nest Wired 2 Doorbell</a> (a GREAT doorbell, by the way). First, I put the Google cams in the same places as the Logitech cameras and never had a single WiFi disconnect. Yay! I added them to Apple Home via the AMAZING <a href="https://www.starlinghome.io" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starling Hub</a>.</p>
  2095.  
  2096.  
  2097.  
  2098. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-i-wanted-to-switch-away-from-google-nest-cameras">Why I wanted to switch away from Google Nest Cameras.</h2>
  2099.  
  2100.  
  2101.  
  2102. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="549" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/NestAwarePrices.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18384"/></figure>
  2103.  
  2104.  
  2105.  
  2106. <p>All of my Google Nest cameras worked as advertised. I had 24/7 recordings and cloud storage for each camera. However, this created a new problem, and many have become uncomfortable with cloud-based video storage that employees can technically view without your permission. The <strong>new problem</strong> was the internet and Wi-Fi bandwidth. Each new Google Nest camera recording 24/7 means that each camera constantly sends video to the cloud. You only have so much bandwidth to go around, and if 6 or 8 or 10 cameras are uploading video 24/7, then you&#8217;re going to take a hit on your internet connection and, more importantly, your WiFi. There&#8217;s also an annual cost involved. The Nest Aware Plus plan costs $150/year to give you access to 10 days of 24/7 recording for unlimited cameras. While this price is not too bad, it is an ongoing cost to store YOUR footage. All of this caused me to start eyeing the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Protect cameras</a> instead.</p>
  2107.  
  2108.  
  2109.  
  2110. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unifi-protect-cameras-record-locally-24-7">Unifi Protect Cameras Record Locally 24/7</h2>
  2111.  
  2112.  
  2113.  
  2114. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="444" height="333" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G4_instant-in-window-edited.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18386"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi G4 Instant in the window. It&#8217;s Wi-Fi-based, and therefore, it can go anywhere inside your home/office.</figcaption></figure>
  2115.  
  2116.  
  2117.  
  2118. <p>I&#8217;ve had such a <a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">good experience with my switch to Unifi for all my networking needs</a> (<a href="https://terrywhite.com/how-i-solved-my-wifi-nightmare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read that post here</a>) that I started looking at their Unifi Protect line of POE (power over ethernet) cameras and NVR (network video recorders). </p>
  2119.  
  2120.  
  2121.  
  2122. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="368" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/events-Unifi.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18387"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi Protect cameras also recognize events to get to an event recording quickly. </figcaption></figure>
  2123.  
  2124.  
  2125.  
  2126. <p>Unifi cameras also recognize events and point them out in your timeline, but the recordings are not limited to events. You have full 24/7 recording for each camera/doorbell. </p>
  2127.  
  2128.  
  2129.  
  2130. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poe-vs-wifi">POE vs. WiFi</h2>
  2131.  
  2132.  
  2133.  
  2134. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="658" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5-flex-POE.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18383" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5-flex-POE.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5-flex-POE-642x650.jpg 642w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5-flex-POE-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></figure>
  2135.  
  2136.  
  2137.  
  2138. <p>POE stands for Power Over Ethernet. This means that with a single ethernet connection, the device (camera) can receive power and a fast, stable network connection via an ethernet cable. The obvious benefit is that a POE camera doesn&#8217;t use WiFi and, therefore, is not susceptible to WiFi outages, disconnects, or jamming. The disadvantage is that you have to be able to run (or have run) ethernet cabling to each place where you want to put a POE camera. You&#8217;ll also need <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a POE-capable ethernet switch</a>. Standard Ethernet switches don&#8217;t provide power over Ethernet.</p>
  2139.  
  2140.  
  2141.  
  2142. <p>Unifi Protect stores footage locally from each camera and <strong>never uploads it to the internet</strong>. The obvious advantage is <strong>privacy</strong>. Your footage remains locally in your home/business at all times and stored on a compatible NVR (network video recorder) that connects to your network via ethernet. You can view the footage via their Unifi Protect App on your mobile device or via a web browser. Whether you&#8217;re using the app or web browser, you&#8217;re connecting YOUR NVR, not the cloud. You can view the footage from anywhere and save clips to your device if needed. Each camera records 24/7, and you control how many days/weeks of video is stored by the number/size of hard drives that you install in your NVR. </p>
  2143.  
  2144.  
  2145.  
  2146. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="390" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Protect-on-ATV.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18388"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This is the Unifi Protect Apple TV App, which allows you to see all of your cameras, nine at a time, and they display in the order that you put them in in the mobile app. </figcaption></figure>
  2147.  
  2148.  
  2149.  
  2150. <p>There&#8217;s even a Unifi Protect App for Apple TV (which I absolutely LOVE). </p>
  2151.  
  2152.  
  2153.  
  2154. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-unifi-protect-expensive">Is Unifi Protect Expensive?</h2>
  2155.  
  2156.  
  2157.  
  2158. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/NVR.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18382"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi Protect NVR (network video recorder) &#8211; 4 Bays &#8211; I have an 8TB drive in bays 1 and 2, leaving bays 3 and 4 open for future expansion.</figcaption></figure>
  2159.  
  2160.  
  2161.  
  2162. <p>Hmm, my first response to that question is &#8220;yes and no.&#8221; Let me explain. The Unifi Protect cameras are actually reasonably priced and cost less than cameras from Ring, Logitech, Google, etc. There&#8217;s also no subscription to pay since the footage is stored locally. The added cost comes in: you&#8217;ll need to buy the NVR and hard drive(s) upfront. Technically, you get this cost back over time in annual subscription savings, but it is an upfront cost. The <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite">Unifi Protect NVR costs $299</a>. That&#8217;s not bad (basically the equivalent of two years of Nest Aware Plus). However, you still need to add storage to the NVR. I went with <a href="https://amzn.to/3Sb9qKX" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two 8TB hard drives, which cost me $200 each</a>. Can&#8217;t you buy cheaper hard drives? Yes, there are definitely cheaper hard drives out there. The problem is that you don&#8217;t just want any old, cheap, slow drive. You want hard drives that are rated to be in security surveillance systems since they&#8217;ll be recording continuously 24/7. Surveillance-rated drives cost more than standard data drives. Why buy two 8TB drives instead of a cheaper 16TB drive? The <a href="https://amzn.to/3s8lUbm">16TB Drive is only $315</a>. You can put one drive in the NVR and save money. However, the NVR automatically configures two or more drives in a RAID configuration so that you&#8217;ll still have all your saved footage in the event of a drive crash. If that&#8217;s not important to you, then you can save money by just putting one drive in instead of two.</p>
  2163.  
  2164.  
  2165.  
  2166. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-which-cameras-did-i-go-with">Which cameras did I go with?</h2>
  2167.  
  2168.  
  2169.  
  2170. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="307" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Unifi-flex-and-bullet.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18371"/></figure>
  2171.  
  2172.  
  2173.  
  2174. <p>I replaced all my outdoor cameras with either <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi G5 Flex</a> for $129 or the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G5 Bullet</a> for $129 cameras. Both cameras have really similar specs, and it&#8217;s just a matter of style preference. The G5 Flex is smaller and doesn&#8217;t scream security camera like the G5 Bullet.</p>
  2175.  
  2176.  
  2177.  
  2178. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Meryvn_running-ethernet.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18395" style="aspect-ratio:0.7496159754224271;width:674px;height:auto"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This is professional cable installer Mervyn, running CAT-6 Ethernet to my front porch and back patio for the POE cameras.</figcaption></figure>
  2179.  
  2180.  
  2181.  
  2182. <p>Both of these cameras have POE; therefore, I needed to run a few ethernet cables to these locations outside to connect them. Luckily, Unifi makes this amazing Unifi POE-powered weatherproof ethernet switch. <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite">The 5 Port Unifi Flex Switch</a> allowed me (Mervyn) to run only one ethernet cable to the front porch and one ethernet cable to the back patio and then connect all the cameras to this one switch. This saved us time and money.</p>
  2183.  
  2184.  
  2185.  
  2186. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G5-FLEX-onledge.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18389"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">POE-based G5 Flex camera on a ledge looking down at the foyer. </figcaption></figure>
  2187.  
  2188.  
  2189.  
  2190. <p>Replacing the interior cameras was a bit easier because most of the locations where I wanted to put cameras had POE ethernet switches nearby. For those spots, I also went with Unifi G5 Flex cameras. Unfortunately, there were four locations where it just wasn&#8217;t feasible to run ethernet. </p>
  2191.  
  2192.  
  2193.  
  2194. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="432" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Unifi_G4_instant.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18372"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wi-Fi-based G4 Instant. Powered via USB-C. Interior camera, not rated for weather.</figcaption></figure>
  2195.  
  2196.  
  2197.  
  2198. <p></p>
  2199.  
  2200.  
  2201.  
  2202. <p>I went with the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi G4 Instant</a> (a WiFi-based camera) for those four locations for $99 each (much cheaper than Google, Logitech, and Ring cams). Even though the G4 Instant is a WiFi camera, it has all the same features as the POE models, including 24/7 recording.</p>
  2203.  
  2204.  
  2205.  
  2206. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-my-doorbell">What about my doorbell?</h2>
  2207.  
  2208.  
  2209.  
  2210. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="531" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G4-Profesional_doorbell.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18377"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Unifi G4 Professional Doorbell never misses a beat. It&#8217;s installed in the same place that the Logitech Circle View Doorbell would overheat in. We had some of the hottest months on record this past summer, and not a single issue.</figcaption></figure>
  2211.  
  2212.  
  2213.  
  2214. <p>I decided to go all in with Unifi Protect. Although I really really did like the <a href="https://amzn.to/46WsS1Y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Nest Wired 2 doorbell</a> and would recommend it, it wasn&#8217;t worth keeping it if it meant having to pay $150/year for Nest Aware and for it not to be recording to my new NVR. Therefore, I bit the bullet and went with the <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi G4 Professional Doorbell</a>. This doorbell is a monster, and I mean that in a good way! It&#8217;s large but also amazing in terms of quality and features. It&#8217;s actually the first smart doorbell to work properly with my mechanical chime. I also bought their <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital WiFi plug-in chime</a> to put upstairs since we can&#8217;t always hear the doorbell when upstairs. Beyond the obvious of being a smart doorbell that records 24/7 locally to my NVR, it has a separate package cam that faces down. It also has a customizable digital text display so that you can display messages like &#8220;Just leave it,&#8221; &#8220;<strong>No Soliciting</strong>,&#8221; or &#8220;Do Not Disturb,&#8221; etc. While the G4 Professional Doorbell connects via WiFi out of the box, there is an <a href="https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/category/cameras-doorbells/products/uacc-adapter-dbpoe?variant=uacc-adapter-dbpoe">optional POE adapter</a>. If I (or Mervyn) can figure out how to get the wire down to the doorbell, I&#8217;ll get this adapter and connect my G4 Professional Doorbell via POE.</p>
  2215.  
  2216.  
  2217.  
  2218. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="365" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Unifi-Protect-NVR-recording.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18376"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Unifi G4 Professional Doorbell recording of my latest Amazon delivery</figcaption></figure>
  2219.  
  2220.  
  2221.  
  2222. <p>While I miss some of the features of the Google Nest Wired 2 doorbell, such as custom/holiday ringtones and seeing the footage on a Google Nest hub or Amazon Echo smart display, the G4 Professional Doorbell was worth the swap. </p>
  2223.  
  2224.  
  2225.  
  2226. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-my-unifi-protect-cameras-are-also-in-apple-home">My Unifi Protect Cameras are also in Apple Home.</h2>
  2227.  
  2228.  
  2229.  
  2230. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="490" height="1000" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-490x1000.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18378" style="aspect-ratio:0.49;width:293px;height:auto" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-490x1000.jpg 490w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro-319x650.jpg 319w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone13Pro.jpg 650w" sizes="(max-width: 490px) 100vw, 490px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">All of my Unifi Protect Cameras in the Apple Home App via HomeBridge</figcaption></figure>
  2231.  
  2232.  
  2233.  
  2234. <p>Although I can easily see all the cameras in the Unifi Protect App or even on any of my Apple TVs, I love controlling my entire smart home in the Apple Home App. This means I want to see all of my cameras there, too. There are no POE cameras with native Apple Home (HomeKit) support that I&#8217;m aware of. </p>
  2235.  
  2236.  
  2237.  
  2238. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="461" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G4-Doorbell-ATV-HomeKit.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18391"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">the HomeBridge plug-in provides the same exact support you would get with a native HomeKit Camera/Doorbell. This includes doorbell events popping up on Apple TV.</figcaption></figure>
  2239.  
  2240.  
  2241.  
  2242. <p>Luckily, there is a great <a href="https://github.com/hjdhjd/homebridge-unifi-protect" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unifi Protect HomeBridge plug-in</a> that works great! The Plug-in even allows you to configure the cameras for Apple&#8217;s HomeKit Secure Video (end-to-end encrypted cloud storage). </p>
  2243.  
  2244.  
  2245.  
  2246. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="605" height="649" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G4-Pro-doorbell-ring-AppleHome-iPhone.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18392"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Even though I have 24/7 video recording, I can see any recent events in the Apple Home app, such as my UPS driver ringing the bell.</figcaption></figure>
  2247.  
  2248.  
  2249.  
  2250. <p>Although HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV) is already included in my iCloud storage plan at no additional cost, HKSV is still event-based, doesn&#8217;t record 24/7, and uses internet bandwidth. With that said, I use the Apple Home App to stream the cameras on demand for the sake of convenience. </p>
  2251.  
  2252.  
  2253.  
  2254. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/G4-Pro-Doorbell_package-camera-in-AppleHome.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18394"/></figure>
  2255.  
  2256.  
  2257.  
  2258. <p>It even shows the package camera on the G4 Professional Doorbell as a separate camera in the Apple Home App.</p>
  2259.  
  2260.  
  2261.  
  2262. <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bottom-line">The Bottom Line</h2>
  2263.  
  2264.  
  2265.  
  2266. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="580" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Unifi-list-of-cameras.png" alt="" class="wp-image-18373"/></figure>
  2267.  
  2268.  
  2269.  
  2270. <p>A lot of work and upfront investment was involved in this Unifi Protect upgrade, but it was absolutely worth it.  Seventeen cameras and one NVR later, I&#8217;m very happy with this setup. I can scroll back to any camera footage for up to 10 days. If I want to be able to go back further than 10 days, I can add a third hard drive. I wish I had done it sooner and not even bothered with more Google Nest cams at the time. </p>
  2271.  
  2272.  
  2273.  
  2274. <p>There is one big gap in the Unifi Protect product line. They don&#8217;t have a dedicated floodlight cam. You can cobble one together with either their <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite">separate POE floodlight</a> (the fact that this needs its own ethernet connection could be a deal breaker for many) or their expensive <a href="https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/category/all-cameras-nvrs/products/uvc-g5-pro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G5 Professional</a> AND <a href="https://store.ui.com/?a_aid=TerryWhite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G5 Professional Vision Enhancer</a>. Until they develop a better solution, I&#8217;ll keep the Ring Floodlight cam up. Otherwise, they cover all my bases. I&#8217;d also like them to add apps to smart speaker displays from Google and Amazon. It would also be nice to see some customizable G4 Professional Doorbell melodies. Other than these minor features missing from the product line, I&#8217;m completely happy.</p>
  2275.  
  2276.  
  2277.  
  2278. <p></p>
  2279. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-switched-to-unifi-protect-and-dumped-my-google-nest-cams/">I Switched to Unifi Protect and Dumped my Google Nest Cams</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2280. ]]></content:encoded>
  2281. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18367</post-id> </item>
  2282. <item>
  2283. <title>A Less Expensive USB-C Hub for your Mac/PC, iPhone 15 or iPad</title>
  2284. <link>https://terrywhite.com/a-less-expensive-usb-c-hub-for-your-mac-pc-iphone-15-or-ipad/</link>
  2285. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  2286. <pubDate>Mon, 23 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  2287. <category><![CDATA[Accessories]]></category>
  2288. <category><![CDATA[iPhone]]></category>
  2289. <category><![CDATA[Ethernet]]></category>
  2290. <category><![CDATA[HDMI]]></category>
  2291. <category><![CDATA[Hub]]></category>
  2292. <category><![CDATA[iPad]]></category>
  2293. <category><![CDATA[USB-C]]></category>
  2294. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18356</guid>
  2295.  
  2296. <description><![CDATA[<p>With the introduction of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro phones, I&#8217;m connecting more peripherals to my iPhone 15 Pro than ever. For the first time, I can connect &#8230; </p>
  2297. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/a-less-expensive-usb-c-hub-for-your-mac-pc-iphone-15-or-ipad/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "A Less Expensive USB-C Hub for your Mac/PC, iPhone 15 or iPad"</span></a></p>
  2298. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/a-less-expensive-usb-c-hub-for-your-mac-pc-iphone-15-or-ipad/">A Less Expensive USB-C Hub for your Mac/PC, iPhone 15 or iPad</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2299. ]]></description>
  2300. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  2301. <p>With the introduction of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro phones, I&#8217;m connecting more peripherals to my iPhone 15 Pro than ever. For the first time, I can connect to gigabit ethernet, which is GREAT for those times when I need to sync a ton of raw photos and 4K videos to the cloud.</p>
  2302.  
  2303.  
  2304.  
  2305. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="774" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone15Pro-PlugableDock.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18361" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone15Pro-PlugableDock.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/iPhone15Pro-PlugableDock-546x650.jpg 546w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Plugable 7-in-1 USB-C hub is plugged into my iPhone Pro. I currently have it connected to Ethernet, USB-C power and a microSD memory card from my drone. </figcaption></figure>
  2306.  
  2307.  
  2308.  
  2309. <p>When <a href="https://terrywhite.com/why-usb-c-on-iphone-15-pro-is-a-big-deal-for-me/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">I first blogged about</a> this, I recommended a great 9-in-1 USB-C hub, Hyperdrive. However, it was expensive (about $99). I discovered a 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with the same connectivity minus one USB port and one audio port. If you can live without these two additional ports, then you can save money by getting the <a href="https://amzn.to/46HLJOw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plugable 7-in-1 USB-C hub</a> (about $40) instead.</p>
  2310.  
  2311.  
  2312.  
  2313. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Plugable 7-in-1 USB-C Hub gives me four things in one.</h2>
  2314.  
  2315.  
  2316.  
  2317. <span id="more-18356"></span>
  2318.  
  2319.  
  2320.  
  2321. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="751" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableEthernetSpeedTest.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18359" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableEthernetSpeedTest.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableEthernetSpeedTest-563x650.jpg 563w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The speed test results above were with gigabit Ethernet connected to the Plugable.</figcaption></figure>
  2322.  
  2323.  
  2324.  
  2325. <p></p>
  2326.  
  2327.  
  2328.  
  2329. <p>I don&#8217;t currently need to plug in USB devices like keyboards and mice. However, I absolutely connect gigabit ethernet, HDMI (for my live streams when demoing Lightroom on mobile), SD/microSD memory cards from my <a href="https://amzn.to/3s4czkV" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nikon Z 8</a> or my <a href="https://amzn.to/3tJjikS" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DJI Mavic Mini Drone</a>, and of course USB-C power from my <a href="https://amzn.to/3Qt3j39" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anker power plug</a>. </p>
  2330.  
  2331.  
  2332.  
  2333. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="740" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableLightroom.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18362" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableLightroom.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/PlugableLightroom-571x650.jpg 571w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above, I have a microSD card plugged in, which was immediately recognized by Lightroom so that I can import the stills and video.</figcaption></figure>
  2334.  
  2335.  
  2336.  
  2337. <p></p>
  2338.  
  2339.  
  2340.  
  2341. <p>With this USB-C hub, I can connect to just about any USB peripheral to my iPhone 15 Pro or iPad Pro. </p>
  2342.  
  2343.  
  2344.  
  2345. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
  2346.  
  2347.  
  2348.  
  2349. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="151" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/EthernetANDPower.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18364"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">the blue plug icon is present when connected to Ethernet and you can see on the right that it&#8217;s also charging.</figcaption></figure>
  2350.  
  2351.  
  2352.  
  2353. <p>Apple&#8217;s transition to USB-C, which began in 2016, is just about complete. All my Macs have USB-C/Thunderbolt built-in. I&#8217;ve been enjoying USB-C on my iPad Pro for a few years. Finally, I can enjoy the same connectivity that I&#8217;ve been having with my iPad Pro on my iPhone 15 Pro!</p>
  2354.  
  2355.  
  2356.  
  2357. <p>If you&#8217;re looking for a reasonably priced USB-C hub for your Mac, PC, Chromebook, iPad, or iPhone 15/15 Pro, then look no further than the <a href="https://amzn.to/3Qor9gt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plugable 7-in-1 USB-C Hub</a>.</p>
  2358. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/a-less-expensive-usb-c-hub-for-your-mac-pc-iphone-15-or-ipad/">A Less Expensive USB-C Hub for your Mac/PC, iPhone 15 or iPad</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2359. ]]></content:encoded>
  2360. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18356</post-id> </item>
  2361. <item>
  2362. <title>New Lightroom and Lightroom Classic Features Released at Adobe MAX 2023</title>
  2363. <link>https://terrywhite.com/new-lightroom-and-lightroom-classic-features-released-at-adobe-max-2023/</link>
  2364. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  2365. <pubDate>Tue, 10 Oct 2023 16:55:24 +0000</pubDate>
  2366. <category><![CDATA[Adobe]]></category>
  2367. <category><![CDATA[Creative Cloud]]></category>
  2368. <category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
  2369. <category><![CDATA[Adobe MAX]]></category>
  2370. <category><![CDATA[Lightroom]]></category>
  2371. <category><![CDATA[Lightroom Classic]]></category>
  2372. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18329</guid>
  2373.  
  2374. <description><![CDATA[<p>Hey everyone, I wanted to share some news many of you have been anticipating and waiting for. Today, Tuesday, October 10, at Adobe MAX in LA, Adobe has released new &#8230; </p>
  2375. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/new-lightroom-and-lightroom-classic-features-released-at-adobe-max-2023/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "New Lightroom and Lightroom Classic Features Released at Adobe MAX 2023"</span></a></p>
  2376. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/new-lightroom-and-lightroom-classic-features-released-at-adobe-max-2023/">New Lightroom and Lightroom Classic Features Released at Adobe MAX 2023</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2377. ]]></description>
  2378. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  2379. <p>Hey everyone,  I wanted to share some news many of you have been anticipating and waiting for. Today, Tuesday, October 10, at Adobe MAX in LA, Adobe has released new versions of Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, Lightroom on Mobile, and Lightroom on Web.&nbsp;</p>
  2380.  
  2381.  
  2382.  
  2383. <p><strong>Here are the highlights and main new features:&nbsp;</strong></p>
  2384.  
  2385.  
  2386.  
  2387. <p><strong>Local Storage in Lightroom&nbsp;</strong></p>
  2388.  
  2389.  
  2390.  
  2391. <p><em>Available on Lightroom only</em></p>
  2392.  
  2393.  
  2394.  
  2395. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="478" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/LocalStorage.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18333"/></figure>
  2396.  
  2397.  
  2398.  
  2399. <p>This is a major change for Lightroom that many users have asked for. With Local Storage, you now have the choice to store and work on your images and videos in Lightroom’s cloud, OR now you can choose to work locally. Working locally means clicking on the Local tab and immediately accessing your local drives and network storage. You can click on any folder to see its images and videos. You can click on any locally stored photo or video and immediately start editing it without first adding it to Lightroom or syncing it to the cloud. The Local tab is essentially a file browser. If at any time you decide to sync your photo/video to the cloud to back it up and have it available on all your devices, you can click the Copy to Cloud button. The photos/videos will still be stored locally in your folders, but a copy with the edits will be synced to the Cloud. You’ll have the option to continue working locally and sync any future edits that you make.&nbsp;</p>
  2400.  
  2401.  
  2402.  
  2403. <p><strong>HDR Optimization</strong></p>
  2404.  
  2405.  
  2406.  
  2407. <span id="more-18329"></span>
  2408.  
  2409.  
  2410.  
  2411. <p><em>Available on Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, Adobe Camera Raw, Lightroom for mobile (iOS &amp; Android), and Lightroom for web. Requires a display that supports HDR.</em></p>
  2412.  
  2413.  
  2414.  
  2415. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="376" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HDRinterface.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18331"/></figure>
  2416.  
  2417.  
  2418.  
  2419. <p>Lightroom and Lightroom Classic have been able to Merge to HDR for a while now. However, up until now, the HDRs you’ve merged or imported as single images have been displayed in SDR (Standard Dynamic Range). As of the Adobe MAX releases, you can now Edit in HDR on your HDR displays and export HDR images to JPG, JPEG XL, and AVIF.&nbsp;</p>
  2420.  
  2421.  
  2422.  
  2423. <p><strong>Lens Blur – Early Access</strong></p>
  2424.  
  2425.  
  2426.  
  2427. <p><em>Available on Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, Lightroom for mobile (iOS &amp; Android), Lightroom for web, and Adobe Camera Raw</em></p>
  2428.  
  2429.  
  2430.  
  2431. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="433" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/LensBlur.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18330"/></figure>
  2432.  
  2433.  
  2434.  
  2435. <p>This is one that I’m pretty excited about the ability to apply Lens Blur to your existing photos and any new ones you take. Lens Blur uses AI to determine your photos&#8217; depth, allowing you to blur the background selectively. You can add beautiful, realistic bokeh to your photos.&nbsp;</p>
  2436.  
  2437.  
  2438.  
  2439. <p><strong>Point Color&nbsp;</strong></p>
  2440.  
  2441.  
  2442.  
  2443. <p><em>Available on Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, Adobe Camera Raw, and Lightroom for web</em></p>
  2444.  
  2445.  
  2446.  
  2447. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="402" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/pointcolorinterface.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18332"/></figure>
  2448.  
  2449.  
  2450.  
  2451. <p>The new Point Color gives us a new way to edit colors in our photos selectively. The best part is that it works within the masking features to get the ultimate control or color changes/corrections to your subjects.&nbsp;</p>
  2452.  
  2453.  
  2454.  
  2455. <p>It’s usually easier for me to show the new features rather than explain them, so I’ve <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjA_0O2KeMw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recorded this video</a> for you:</p>
  2456.  
  2457.  
  2458.  
  2459. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  2460. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hjA_0O2KeMw?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  2461. </div></figure>
  2462.  
  2463.  
  2464.  
  2465. <p></p>
  2466.  
  2467.  
  2468.  
  2469. <p>I’ll also do a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqWvLu79K84">live stream this Friday</a> so you can see everything live and ask questions. That stream is here: </p>
  2470.  
  2471.  
  2472.  
  2473. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  2474. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mqWvLu79K84?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  2475. </div></figure>
  2476.  
  2477.  
  2478.  
  2479. <p>Also, check out this <a href="https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2023/10/10/powerful-photo-editing-easier-than-ever-explore-latest-from-lightroom-adobe-max-2023">blog post</a> for more details.</p>
  2480.  
  2481.  
  2482.  
  2483. <p>P.S. Lightroom Classic now supports tethering to the Nikon Z8! Also, the new editing experience in Lightroom on phone is streamlined and easier.</p>
  2484.  
  2485.  
  2486.  
  2487. <p>Be sure to check out the full Adobe MAX Keynote here:</p>
  2488.  
  2489.  
  2490.  
  2491. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  2492. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1tbrJNP5Cjk?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  2493. </div></figure>
  2494.  
  2495.  
  2496.  
  2497. <p>Please feel free to post any questions/comments/thoughts below. I am particularly interested in what everyone thinks about Local Storage in Lightroom. I will answer everything I can and share any comments/concerns with the teams at Adobe. </p>
  2498.  
  2499.  
  2500.  
  2501. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">One more thing&#8230; Be sure to check out Victoria&#8217;s NEW Adobe Firefly Prompt book!</h2>
  2502.  
  2503.  
  2504.  
  2505. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://amzn.to/46Jlur0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FireflyPromptBook.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18398" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FireflyPromptBook.jpg 650w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FireflyPromptBook-150x150.jpg 150w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FireflyPromptBook-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></a></figure>
  2506.  
  2507.  
  2508.  
  2509. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/46Jlur0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get your copy here</a>.</p>
  2510. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/new-lightroom-and-lightroom-classic-features-released-at-adobe-max-2023/">New Lightroom and Lightroom Classic Features Released at Adobe MAX 2023</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2511. ]]></content:encoded>
  2512. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18329</post-id> </item>
  2513. <item>
  2514. <title>I just delivered my 1st TEDx Talk</title>
  2515. <link>https://terrywhite.com/i-just-delivered-my-1st-tedx-talk/</link>
  2516. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  2517. <pubDate>Fri, 29 Sep 2023 15:25:35 +0000</pubDate>
  2518. <category><![CDATA[Where's Terry White?]]></category>
  2519. <category><![CDATA[AI]]></category>
  2520. <category><![CDATA[TED Talk]]></category>
  2521. <category><![CDATA[TEDx]]></category>
  2522. <category><![CDATA[TEDx Detroit]]></category>
  2523. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18314</guid>
  2524.  
  2525. <description><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;m just returning from Detroit (my first home), where I delivered my first TEDx talk for TEDx Detroit — &#8220;AI is Here.&#8221; It was an honor! I&#8217;ll have more photos &#8230; </p>
  2526. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-just-delivered-my-1st-tedx-talk/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "I just delivered my 1st TEDx Talk"</span></a></p>
  2527. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-just-delivered-my-1st-tedx-talk/">I just delivered my 1st TEDx Talk</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2528. ]]></description>
  2529. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  2530. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Terry-TEDx.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18315"/></figure>
  2531.  
  2532.  
  2533.  
  2534. <p>I&#8217;m just returning from Detroit (my first home), where I delivered <strong>my first TEDx talk</strong> for <strong><a href="https://www.tedxdetroit.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TEDx Detroit</a></strong> — <strong>&#8220;AI is Here.&#8221;</strong> It was an honor! I&#8217;ll have more photos to share when the official ones are released, but here&#8217;s the <strong>REPLAY</strong> of my talk for those who couldn&#8217;t attend. <a href="https://youtu.be/df-_P6LMIlg?si=D6kpjKk4SCcva6pF">Watch it here</a>:</p>
  2535.  
  2536.  
  2537.  
  2538. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  2539. <iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="525" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/df-_P6LMIlg?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox"></iframe>
  2540. </div></figure>
  2541.  
  2542.  
  2543.  
  2544. <p>If you want to see the full day, here&#8217;s:</p>
  2545.  
  2546.  
  2547.  
  2548. <span id="more-18314"></span>
  2549.  
  2550.  
  2551.  
  2552. <p> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/tswLXd6maps?si=wF6dMielnfqfUlRj" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Session One</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/MqAsVbgnCRY?si=JptWg-Ej28qMdkF-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Session Two</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/fmQ0Ape8CAQ?si=k6p6l0OFtb0k3eU2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Session Three</a> (I was in this session).</p>
  2553.  
  2554.  
  2555.  
  2556. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="339" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Terry-TEDx-sign.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18317"/></figure>
  2557.  
  2558.  
  2559.  
  2560. <p>It was a great day and I encourage you to listen to the rest of the talks as they were extremely inspiring!</p>
  2561.  
  2562.  
  2563.  
  2564. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/TEDxDetroitBadge.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18319"/></figure>
  2565. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/i-just-delivered-my-1st-tedx-talk/">I just delivered my 1st TEDx Talk</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2566. ]]></content:encoded>
  2567. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18314</post-id> </item>
  2568. <item>
  2569. <title>These 3 Pieces Make a Great iPhone iOS 17 StandBy Charging Stand</title>
  2570. <link>https://terrywhite.com/these-3-pieces-make-a-great-iphone-ios-17-standby-charging-stand/</link>
  2571. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Terry White]]></dc:creator>
  2572. <pubDate>Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  2573. <category><![CDATA[iPhone]]></category>
  2574. <category><![CDATA[iOS 17]]></category>
  2575. <category><![CDATA[MagSafe]]></category>
  2576. <category><![CDATA[StandBy]]></category>
  2577. <category><![CDATA[Wireless Charging]]></category>
  2578. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://terrywhite.com/?p=18301</guid>
  2579.  
  2580. <description><![CDATA[<p>One of my favorite features in iOS 17 is the new StandBy feature. This feature lets you display beautiful widgets while your iPhone is wireless charging in landscape mode on &#8230; </p>
  2581. <p class="link-more"><a href="https://terrywhite.com/these-3-pieces-make-a-great-iphone-ios-17-standby-charging-stand/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "These 3 Pieces Make a Great iPhone iOS 17 StandBy Charging Stand"</span></a></p>
  2582. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/these-3-pieces-make-a-great-iphone-ios-17-standby-charging-stand/">These 3 Pieces Make a Great iPhone iOS 17 StandBy Charging Stand</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
  2583. ]]></description>
  2584. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  2585. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/StandBy-Clock-Schedule.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18307"/></figure>
  2586.  
  2587.  
  2588.  
  2589. <p>One of my favorite features in iOS 17 is the new StandBy feature. This feature lets you display beautiful widgets while your iPhone is wireless charging in landscape mode on a MagSafe charging stand. </p>
  2590.  
  2591.  
  2592.  
  2593. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="539" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/StandBy-HomeKit-Widget.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18311"/></figure>
  2594.  
  2595.  
  2596.  
  2597. <p>You can add the widgets you want to easily control apps while in StandBy. Above, I added an Apple Home widget for smart home control of scenes and accessories. </p>
  2598.  
  2599.  
  2600.  
  2601. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">MagSafe Charging Stands Are Pricey!</h2>
  2602.  
  2603.  
  2604.  
  2605. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://amzn.to/3rop8aA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="423" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Belkin-3-in-1-BoostChargePro.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18302"/></a></figure>
  2606.  
  2607.  
  2608.  
  2609. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3rop8aA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">My favorite 3-in-1 Charger is the Belkin BoostCharge Pro</a>. It&#8217;s the one on my nightstand.</p>
  2610.  
  2611.  
  2612.  
  2613. <p>If you buy a name-brand MagSafe charging stand, you could easily spend $90-$150 for it. In all fairness, those stands can usually charge 2 or 3 devices, such as your iPhone, AirPods case, and Apple Watch. However, if you&#8217;re looking to charge your iPhone on your desk or nightstand and take advantage of StandBy in iOS 17, I have a great solution for you that costs less.</p>
  2614.  
  2615.  
  2616.  
  2617. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="447" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Anker-3-in-1-Cube.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18303"/></figure>
  2618.  
  2619.  
  2620.  
  2621. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3sZCsm6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">My favorite 3-in-1 Travel Charger is the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe</a>. It stays in my suitcase for travel—a very clever design for traveling as it folds down to just a cube.</p>
  2622.  
  2623.  
  2624.  
  2625. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">If You Get These 3 Pieces, You Can Have a GREAT MagSafe Charging Stand For Your iPhone That Costs Less.</h2>
  2626.  
  2627.  
  2628.  
  2629. <span id="more-18301"></span>
  2630.  
  2631.  
  2632.  
  2633. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="596" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/AppleMagSafeCharger.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18304"/></figure>
  2634.  
  2635.  
  2636.  
  2637. <p>It starts with the Apple MagSafe charger. That&#8217;s right; the official Apple-branded MagSafe charger is as good as it gets for, well, MagSafe charging.</p>
  2638.  
  2639.  
  2640.  
  2641. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/46kwB9u" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the MagSafe charger here</a> ($33 last I checked).</p>
  2642.  
  2643.  
  2644.  
  2645. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="606" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Anker-nano.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18305"/></figure>
  2646.  
  2647.  
  2648.  
  2649. <p>Next, you&#8217;ll need a power source since Apple no longer includes one with your iPhone or the MagSafe charger. Anker makes a great, inexpensive 20w small USB-C charger.</p>
  2650.  
  2651.  
  2652.  
  2653. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3EKn2EK">Get the Anker USB-C nano charger here</a>. ($13.99 last I checked)</p>
  2654.  
  2655.  
  2656.  
  2657. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="642" height="650" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/LamicallMagSafeStand.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18306" srcset="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/LamicallMagSafeStand.jpg 642w, https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/LamicallMagSafeStand-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 642px) 100vw, 642px" /></figure>
  2658.  
  2659.  
  2660.  
  2661. <p>Lastly, you&#8217;ll need a stand to hold your iPhone up horizontally for StandBy to work. This stand is GREAT as it perfectly holds the Apple MagSafe charger and allows you to charge your iPhone horizontally or vertically. </p>
  2662.  
  2663.  
  2664.  
  2665. <p><a href="https://amzn.to/3LxwjnH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get the Lamicall Phone Stand for MagSafe Charger Stand here</a>. ($17.99 last I checked)</p>
  2666.  
  2667.  
  2668.  
  2669. <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
  2670.  
  2671.  
  2672.  
  2673. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="590" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/StandBy-Red.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18308"/></figure>
  2674.  
  2675.  
  2676.  
  2677. <p>I also love how StandBy detects the ambient light, and when the room is darker, the display dims to a nice red that&#8217;s easy on the eyes while you sleep. The display will go completely black while in Sleep Focus, but if you wave your hand or bring your face close, it will detect the motion and illuminate the display again.</p>
  2678.  
  2679.  
  2680.  
  2681. <p><strong>StandBy is also great for use with Siri</strong>. Apple still hasn&#8217;t made a voice assistant/HomePod with a display. StandBy lets you experience what that would be like since the Siri results will be displayed on the screen in StandBy mode.</p>
  2682.  
  2683.  
  2684.  
  2685. <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="488" src="https://terrywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/StandBy-analogclock.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18309"/></figure>
  2686.  
  2687.  
  2688.  
  2689. <p>For $64.98, you get a sturdy, fast MagSafe wireless stand for your iPhone. The only thing they could do better with the stand is cable management, as it hangs down. Besides that, it&#8217;s a perfect solution for the price, especially knowing that the MagSafe charger is from Apple, so compatibility is guaranteed. I do like my 3-in-1 stands for my nightstand and travel, but these are great for having on my desk and next to the sofa.</p>
  2690. <p>The post <a href="https://terrywhite.com/these-3-pieces-make-a-great-iphone-ios-17-standby-charging-stand/">These 3 Pieces Make a Great iPhone iOS 17 StandBy Charging Stand</a> appeared first on <a href="https://terrywhite.com">Terry White&#039;s Tech Blog</a>.</p>
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