Review: Apple TV 4K (2d gen, 2021) Updated
In early 2019, I published an article about the hardware and software functionality that I hoped the next version of the Apple TV would include. In May of 2021, Apple finally released the second generation Apple TV 4K. We upgraded our seven Apple TVs, to this latest model. And, here is my review of the new Apple TV 4K’s capabilities. Continue reading Review: Apple TV 4K (2d gen, 2021) Updated
How To: Synology DS1821+ Network Attached Storage (NAS) & DSM 7.0
We just upgraded our Synology NAS units from Synology’s prior model, DS1817+ to their latest model, DS1819+. In my previous article, I reviewed not just the DS1817+ chassis but also the M2D17 M.2 SATA SSD expansion card. I also covered software features including downloadable Synology and third-party applications, the file system, file sharing, synchronization & backup, and security. Continue reading How To: Synology DS1821+ Network Attached Storage (NAS) & DSM 7.0
How To: Home Network 5.0 with Ubiquiti WiFi 6 Long Range & Protect G4 Review & Calibration
Previously in my smart home series, I covered: the basic principles of wireless networking including using a consumer grade wireless router upgrading to a prosumer/SMB grade managed network with a firewall appliance and multiple discrete WiFi access points recommendations for configuring a Unifi Network, including WiFi spectrum allocation, access point settings, VLANs for IOT devices, and integration of Sonos devices maintaining a separate SonosNet wireless … Continue reading How To: Home Network 5.0 with Ubiquiti WiFi 6 Long Range & Protect G4 Review & Calibration
How To: ATSC 3.0 & the HDHomeRun QUATRO 4K Updated
Overview The next generation of over-the-air broadcast television is based on the ATSC 3.0 standard, branded NextGen TV. The ATSC 3.0 standard includes support for ultra high resolution (i.e. 4K) video with high dynamic range (HDR) as well as support for 7.2+4 channel audio. Additionally, the ATSC 3.0 standard includes new datacasting capabilities. To receive ATSC 3.0 broadcasts, you will need either a new TV … Continue reading How To: ATSC 3.0 & the HDHomeRun QUATRO 4K Updated
How To: Home Network 4.0 with Ubiquiti Unifi Dream Machine Pro, Switch Pro, Flex Mini, Smart Power Plug & UPS Review & Calibration Updated
My friends laugh (and my wife sighs) at how often I upgrade our home networking gear. Our biggest equipment swap occurred two years ago, when we consolidated our entire home network on Ubiquiti Unifi gear. Last year, I upgraded our firewall, network controller, and WiFi access points. I also added a PoE-powered switch to our data closet. Separately, we replaced one of our home security camera systems with the Ubiquiti Unifi Protect system. Now it’s time for more upgrades… Continue reading How To: Home Network 4.0 with Ubiquiti Unifi Dream Machine Pro, Switch Pro, Flex Mini, Smart Power Plug & UPS Review & Calibration Updated
My Wish List for the Next Apple TV & tvOS Updated
It has been about two years since the Apple TV 4K was released, the average time between Apple TV refreshes. So, it is timely to consider what comes next. This is my wish list for the successor to the Apple TV 4K, as well as improvements to tvOS. It’s what I would build were I the product owner of Apple TV. As a videophile, I overindex on features like video and audio quality. However, my suggestions also are based on our family’s initial experiences with Apple’s new gaming service, Apple Arcade. Continue reading My Wish List for the Next Apple TV & tvOS Updated
How To: Sonos Amp Review & Configuration
Having found an ideal whole home audio solution in Sonos, the missing link in our home was how to power our passive in-wall and ceiling speakers as well as our patio speakers. While it was possible to use the Sonos Connect:Amp for this, the Connect:Amp design was almost a decade-old (a rebranded ZP120), relatively low-powered, and not suited for a centralized, rack-mounted installation. Sonos now brands itself as “the easy-to-use wireless home sound system.” But, clearly there is still a need to connect passive, wired speakers to that whole home system. Continue reading How To: Sonos Amp Review & Configuration
How To: Android Auto 5.5 for Navigation & Entertainment on a BMW S1000XR Updated
If you read my two previous articles about using your smartphone to run Android Auto on your motorcycle, you know that I consider the Garmin BMW Navigator VI a poor alternative to a smartphone. I recently upgraded the smartphone that I use with my S1000XR to a Motorola G6. Continue reading How To: Android Auto 5.5 for Navigation & Entertainment on a BMW S1000XR Updated
How To: Ubiquiti Unifi Protect Video Security System Review
In addition to a whole home WiFi network, a whole home audio system, a whole home video distribution system, and a lighting control system, I recommend that you invest in a physical home security system. A key component of your home security system is a comprehensive security camera system. Continue reading How To: Ubiquiti Unifi Protect Video Security System Review
How To: Lutron Caséta Lighting Control System Review Updated
Although we were first introduced to Lutron when we purchased their traditional switches and outlets, Lutron is reknown for their residential and enterprise lighting control systems. Lutron’s residential lighting control systems include Caséta, RA2 Select, RadioRA2, and HomeWorks QS. Caséta and RA2 Select are intended for the DIY user segment while the RadioRA2 and HomeWorks QS product lines are intended for the system installer/integrator segment. Continue reading How To: Lutron Caséta Lighting Control System Review Updated
How To: Lowering Your BMW S1000XR
Even though I am 190cm (6 ft 3 in) tall, I found myself on my tippy toes at stop lights. Shorter riders necessarily are in a worse position, ergonomically. For many reasons, the S1000XR is a fantastic bike both on the highway and off road. However, virtually all riders will have a better riding experience if you lower the height of the S1000XR from the original design. This article by Jerry Skene explains how to do so using an adjustable lowering link kit from Soupy’s Performance. Continue reading How To: Lowering Your BMW S1000XR
How To: Ubiquiti UniFi Security Gateway Pro 4 & Intrusion Prevention (IPS) Updated
The focus of this article is the upgrade of our security gateway from the entry-level model, USG, to the mid-level model, the USG Pro 4. Because our primary reason for upgrading was to enable Unifi’s new intrusion prevention system, that will be covered in detail, below. This is the fourth of my articles covering our family’s experiences with Ubiquiti’s Unifi product line including the security gateway, controller, switches, and WiFi access points in a home environment Continue reading How To: Ubiquiti UniFi Security Gateway Pro 4 & Intrusion Prevention (IPS) Updated
How To: Ubiquiti Cloud Key Gen2 Plus Review & Migration Updated
We just purchased the Ubiquiti Unifi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus to replace our original Unifi Cloud Key appliance. The Cloud Key Gen2 Plus currently serves as a UniFi SDN controller and as both a controller and storage device for UniFi Protect. Unlike the pricer Unifi XG Server, the Unifi Cloud Key Gen2 appears to be positioned as a relatively low-cost and low-power solution for SOHO’s. Continue reading How To: Ubiquiti Cloud Key Gen2 Plus Review & Migration Updated
Recipe: Pressure Cooker Arrabbiata Sauce
Rao’s Homemade Arrabbiata (or “angry” sauce) is a spicy tomato sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and crushed red pepper cooked in olive oil. It adds spiciness to pasta, meats, fish and pizza. It is our family’s favorite grocery store spaghetti sauce. It has extra body due to olive oil but it is not as sweet as other grocery store spaghetti sauces. Continue reading Recipe: Pressure Cooker Arrabbiata Sauce
Recipe: Traditional Fresh Pasta
Using a KitchenAid stand mixer, pour the semolina and all-purpose four in the mixing bowl. Use the dough attachment. Set the mixer speed on 1. Gradually add the eggs and egg yolks to the mix. Scrape the sides to ensure that the pasta dough is thoroughly mixed (about 5 minutes). Your pasta dough should have the consistency of Play-Doh. If necessary, add semolina flour (if too wet)or water (if too dry) Continue reading Recipe: Traditional Fresh Pasta
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