Month: February 2015

Parents who are shipping for an educational toy for their children have often turned to the LeapPad. With the release of the LeapPad 2, it is only natural to wonder what the differences are between the two items. A parent could be able to save a few extra dollars by simply buying the LeapPad 1, while another may want access to the additional features that LeapPad 2 has to offer.

Unique Differences and Design

The differences between the two items are very subtle. Both LeapPad 1 and LeapPad 2 come equipped with a five inch screen that is fully responsive to the child’s touch. Children are able to tap items, flick them and also drag. The graphics capabilities are largely similar and each LeapPad provides the user with a microphone and speaker.

However, the LeapPad 2 does improve on the first edition of the LeapPad by adding extra cameras. The first LeapPad was only equipped with one camera that faced the back. The creators of the LeapPad 2 decided to improve upon this, by keeping the back facing camera and installing an extra front facing camera that has the ability to take pictures and video.

The memory storage capabilities for the LeapPad 2 are also much greater. Whereas the first LeapPad allowed users to store up to 2 gigabytes of on board memory, the LeapPad 2 doubles the memory storage, giving parents and children the ability to store 4 gigabytes of memory on board.

Short battery life was a common concern for parents and owners of the LeapPad 1. The LeapPad 2 improves upon this, extending the overall battery life from eight hours to nine hours. Both LeapPads can connect to a PC with the USB cables that are included with their purchase.

Changes That Matter?

Another major difference between the two is that LeapPad 2 was built in a far more sturdy fashion, leading to less damage caused by clumsy children. After experiencing a great volume of complaints about the durability of LeapPad 1, it is clear that the creators took them to heart. This allows the LeapPad 2 to be recommended to children between the ages of 3 to 9, whereas LeapPad was recommended to those betwween the ages of 4 to 9.

Since the LeapPad 1 is now selling for a bargain basement rate at many major toy stores, parents who are looking to save a few dollars have been taking the time to investigate the difference between the two toys.

While an extra camera, additional storage space and longer battery life are all reasons to consider the purchase of the LeapPad 2, these added bells and whistles do not make a significant difference between the two products. A parent can purchase a LeapPad 1 for their child without making any difficult sacrifices, since the graphics capabilities and the screen size remain the same no matter which one you choose.

Technology has been advancing at an alarming rate in the industries of telephones, portable music devices, and desktop computers. While you would look foolish talking on a Zac Morris style cellular phone from the nineteen nineties, no one seems to look twice at the decades old technology still in use in Trigonometry classes across the country. Texas Instruments has been the singular name in graphing calculators for the life of the industry and, while updated models are sporadically released, these still have the look and feel of an antiquated adding machine and it is incredibly common for older models, life the TI-83 (initially released in 1996) and TI-84 plus (released nearly a decade later, in 2004, it is still over a decade old).

Though Texas Instruments have released newer models since these two, the TI-83 and TI-84 Plus are still commonly used and, since both can be purchased a relative bargain, it is worthwhile to consider the differences between these two graphing calculators.

Features and Specifications of TI-83

The TI-83 was a popular upgrade to its predecessor, the TI-82 (Texas Instruments have been as innovative in naming as they have been in adopting new technology). At the time of its release, the TI-83 was one of the most popular graphing calculators in use among students. The calculator did everything a traditional adding machine did but also had the functionality for parametric graphing modes, statistics, function graphing, trigometric and algebraic functions, and a host of other applications. A notable drawback to this generation of Texas Instrument calculator is that the standard TI-83 calculator did not include any calculus functions, limiting its application in certain higher fields of math. From a hardware perspective, the TI-83 suffered from a lack of flash memory (introduced in Texas Instruments’ 1999 model, the TI-83 Plus) which would allow for updates and large applications.

Features and Specifications of TI-84

The TI-84 Plus graphing calculator was introduced by Texas Instruments in early 2004. Despite its name, there was no basic TI-84 model and this calculator was the immediate successor of the TI-83 Plus and TI-83 Silver product line. The key layout and basic operating system of the TI-84 Plus is nearly identical to the TI-83, making an easy transition for anyone seeking to upgrade from twenty year old technology to ten year old technology.

The TI-84 Plus had a number of improvements over the TI-83 line of graphing calculators. The TI-84 Plus had flash memory as a standard feature, allowing updates to be downloaded and considerable program sizes to be run. The CPU, which is largely responsible for system speed and complexity, was approximately two and a half times faster than the standard TI-83 model. Especially important to modern users is the inclusion of a USB On-The-Go compliant port which allows the calculator to easily connect to devices for updates and downloads, as neither the TI-83 or TI-84 Plus had a means of wireless communication and needed to rely on external devices (like desktop computers) for any new information.

At current prices (both models are easily available used), either of these calculators can be a value. However, the convenience of the later model make it a clear choice where prices are similar.

When you hear the word Audi you automatically think of fine German engineering. The word is synonymous with luxury and speed. Audi is one of the 3 top selling luxury automobiles in the world. Their slogan “Truth in Engineering” is not just a promise, it’s something they deliver with every vehicle they sell. With everything from convertibles to SUVs you are sure to find the right vehicle for your lifestyle.

The Creation of the Audi Q5

In 2008, Audi unveiled the Audi Q5 a luxury compact crossover SUV. It uses a A5 platform which makes handling superb. It went on sale in the United States in 2009. The Q5 is in the middle as far as size is concerned and it’s affordability makes it a shoe in as the next vehicle in your garage. Let’s explore the differences between the 2015 Audi Q5 Premium package and the Premium Plus package.

Features and Specifications

With four different powertrain options and seating for five you are sure to find one that best fits your needs and preferences. The Audi Q5 comes standard with xenon lights, LED taillights and daytime running lights, and a power liftgate on all trims. The Q5 starts at a very affordable rate for a luxury SUV and boasts great gas mileage for its Class.

The Premium package has a 2.0 TFSI turbocharged engine that may be 4 cylinders but you won’t know it with its 220 horses under the hood. The engine size does promote high numbers as far as gas mileage, 20 mpg city/ 28 mpg hwy. The interior boasts many amenities that add to the whole luxury experience. With three-zone automatic climate control you and your passengers are sure to stay comfortable. It has four 12-volt power outlets for everyone’s car chargers.

The Premium Plus package offers three different engine choices starting with the 2.0 TFSI. This trim package adds a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and keyless start, stop, and entry. The next choice is the 3.0 TFSI supercharged six-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower. You won’t lose much in the way of gas economy with it being 18 mpg city/ 26 mpg hwy. The last engine choice, but definitely not the least, is the 3.0 TDI. This turbocharged diesel engine offers amazing gas mileage 24 mpg city/ 31 mpg hwy with a six-cylinder engine and 240 horses.

With superb brake performance and sporty handling the Audi Q5 is a great choice in a crossover SUV. Each new Audi comes with a 90-day trial subscription to SiruisXM satellite radio. Which you can enjoy via the 10 speakers that are throughout the vehicle giving you the standard Audi concert sound. With a no charge first scheduled maintenance and 4 year/50,000 mile limited warranty you will be very pleased with whichever option you choose.

Philips Sonicare, commonly referred to solely as “Sonicare” is a high quality electric toothbrush manufacturer that produces a variety of toothbrush models designed for personal, home use. Depending on a consumer’s dental hygiene wants and needs, Sonicare offers different toothbrushes each designed with a specific use in mind. The high quality of Sonicare products distinguishes them from other, somewhat similar dental health products suitable for home use.

Sonicare’s Flagship Model

The ‘2 Series Plaque Control’ is Sonicare’s simplest and most affordable toothbrush for home use by adults. Relatively cheap, and less than half the price of the next best Sonicare product, the 2 Series helps manage plaque, reducing 6x the amount of a manual toothbrush. Such plaque reduction both keeps teeth feeling fresh and clean, as well as helps to protect teeth from food-based decay. Plaque reduction further aids Sonicare users in prohibiting the development of cavities, especially in hard to reach places towards the back of the mouth. Beginning users of the 2 Series Plaque Control will find the Easy-Start feature an easy way to ease into use of an electric toothbrush. By slowly increasing the power of the toothbrush over the first 14 days, the 2 Series prevents unnecessary harshness on teeth not used to an electric toothbrush. For individuals interested in maintaining their dental hygiene and protecting the benefits of a great smile, the 2 Series Plaque Control Sonicare is an excellent option at a more than affordable price.

Want an Upgrade?

More expensive than the 2 Series, but also offering greater tooth protection and exceedingly high quality craftsmanship, the FlexCare Platinum offers consumers a professional level toothbrush in the mid-upper price range. Benefits of the FlexCare Platinum include seven times the plaque removal of a manual toothbrush, and built-in pressure sensor alerts let users know when they are brushing their teeth which too much force. In addition to excellent plaque removal, the FlexCare Platinum aids in gum protection by preventing gum recession and fighting gingivitis, both of which are crucial steps in protecting one’s teeth. Apart from the FlexCare’s health benefits, the toothbrush offers three different modes for enhanced comfort. Within each of these modes, three intensity settings offer further optimization of cleaning and comfortableness.

Premium Model

The highest quality toothbrush FlexCare offers, the DiamondClean, is also the company’s most expensive. Similar to the FlexCare platinum, the DiamondClean offers seven times the plaque removal of a manual toothbrush. Advantages over the FlexCare and 2 Series Plaque Control include a dual charging system and five separate modes. The five modes, Clean, Gum Care, Sensitive, Polish, and White offer users exceptional control over their own dental health. The DiamondClean also offers the immediate advantage of visibly whitening teeth in less than two weeks, an effect that almost no other toothbrushes commercially available for personal use can replicate. Finally, as mentioned before, the DiamondClean’s dual charging system offers users the option between charging in a USB charging station or in a charging glass.

In a marketplace where high end headphones have never sold at a faster rate, many consumers are curious as to what the difference is between noise canceling technology and noise isolation. To make matters worse, many of the headphone brands are not even aware of the differences themselves, selling headphones that claim to be noise canceling, when they are actually noise isolating, and vice versa.

Each method of noise reduction works in its own way, albeit with a slightly different way of going about the task. Let’s have a closer look at each form of noise cancellation, to learn more about the actual differences.

Noise Canceling

When a person uses noise canceling headphones, they are actually using a microphone in order to hear the sound. Then some processing takes place and inverse waves are sent back into the person’s headphones. The inverse waves are what is responsible for getting rid of all the additional ambient sound.

This is not a perfect science, as noise canceling headphones seem to work best for sounds that are lower, as opposed to those that are more high pitched. Sounds that fall into the middle of the range, such as the human voice, are not always completely canceled out, and may sound more droning and low.

High pitched sounds, like the cries of an infant, are not canceled out, angering many who have gone to the trouble of purchasing noise cancellation headphones. Since noise cancellation headphones rely on the cancellation of the actual waves of sound, a person’s mileage may vary.

Noise Isolation

Noise isolation headphones depend more upon a physical form of noise removal. Noise isolation does not to attempt to cancel the sound waves. The headphones are placed directly onto or into the ear, so that there is a physical barrier between the noise and the person’s ability to hear it.

The effectiveness of noise isolation headphones is entirely dependent on how much of a seal you are able to have between your ears and the noises of the surrounding world. This is not a one size fits all proposition, as each person’s ears are shaped differently and react to noise in their own unique way.

Conclusion

Noise canceling headphones tend to be hit or miss. Top quality variations work well, while lower priced options struggle to work at all. Trying to skimp on noise canceling headphones can lead to purchasing a pair that adds hissing sounds to your audio mix. A set of noise isolation headphones will muffle the world around you quite well if you are able to get a good seal between your ear and everything else. A person must choose the headphones that work best for their personal preferences. Enjoying the fit and the feel is of the utmost importance.

General Motors has produced great overdrive automatic transmissions, and the two transmissions you will hear a lot about are the 700R4 and the 4L60. These are really the same transmission, but were renamed over the years, and are considered a terrific and well-made transmission.

Key Components to the700R4 and 4L60

This transmission is positioned longitudinally and has an automatic four-speed. This family of transmissions uses a two shift solenoid. By activating and deactivating these solenoids in a specific pattern, you can get four distinct gear ratios. The transmission is constructed from cast aluminum alloy. It also utilizes a lockup torque converter. A square oil pan is also standard with this transmission type. Many performance vehicles use this transmission.

When the 700R4 came out in 1982, there was pressure to increase the fuel economy of new vehicles. The transmission was used in rear-wheel drive cars and trucks. Truck transmissions use a slightly thicker case. The biggest feature of the 700R4 was the thirty percent overdrive. Changes and improvements were made over the years the 700R4 was produced (1982 – 1990). Early versions of this transmission had a cooling circuit that used ¼ “pipe fittings, while later versions were changed to an O-ring and pinned flare design.

The 700R4 uses a 4 pin electrical connector and a TV cable. This TV Cable was very sensitive to adjustments and would fail if not adjusted properly. The TV cable is not used on the 4L60-E. The older versions also had a tendency to have seal and gasket leakage. This issue was fixed as improvements were made over the years.

The 700R4 had twenty-seven splines on the input shaft. When this transmission was renamed as the 4L60 in 1990, some small changes had been made, such as increasing the splines on the input shaft to thirty. The name 4L60 stands for 4-speeds, longitudinally placed, and 6000 pounds gross vehicle weight. By 1998 the 4L60-E was released broadly by GM in both 2 and 4 wheel drive vehicles.

In 1993 the biggest change occurred, and the 4L60 changed to the 4L60-E. The hydraulic shifting system was changed over to an electronic system. The transmission’s transmitting core mechanically remained the same, but the clutch/band actuation systems and valve body were now controlled electronically.

The primary feedback sensor was also changed at this time to a Vehicle Speed Sensor, or VSS. This was and improvement and actually a simplification of the transmission design. The 4L60-E also underwent some changes over time. One improvement was the installation of removable bell housing. The tailhousing/adapter pattern was also modified to a rear, six bolt hex pattern.

Either one of these makes a great conversion transmission, and is adaptable for most Jeeps. Many Jeep owners switch to this transmission and benefit from a 25-30% drop in fuel consumption.

The 700R4 and 4L60 transmissions are some of the finest that GM has ever made.

If you are relatively new to road biking, you might be confused by the valve sticking out of your tires. You’re probably used to the valve you see on your car, which is the same valve that is used on kids’ bikes and on mountain bikes. And the valve on your road bike most likely looks very different. The valve on cars and mountain bikes is called a Schrader valve. The valve most commonly found on road bikes is a Presta valve.

What You Need to Know About the Schrader Valve

A Schrader valve is undeniably easier to use. That’s why it’s used on automobiles. All you have to do is take the cap off, inflate your tire, and replace the cap. They can take some pretty rough handling, rarely if ever suffering any serious damage. If the valve does start to malfunction, it has a removable core so you can replace it without having to replace the tube of your tire.

Schrader valves can be difficult to pump with a hand pump because they have a valve spring. A depressor is needed on any pump to overcome this, which makes hand pumps larger. On the other hand, if you are near a gas station or have your own electric air pump, you can re-inflate your tires almost immediately with very little work.

The Differences with the Presta Valve

With as easy as it is to use and maintain Schrader valves, it might seem odd that Presta valves even exist. There are some very solid reasons for using Presta valves on road bikes, however. One is the lack of a valve spring. This makes hand pumps smaller and easier to use. That isn’t the primary reason that they are put on road bike tires, though.

Road bike tires are universally narrower than mountain bike tires. This means narrower rims that are easier to damage. The hole in the rim where the valve comes through is the weakest point. A Presta valve is much skinnier than a Schrader valve. This results in a smaller hole, meaning less of a weak spot for the rim.

Road bikes also often have deeper rims than mountain bikes. Presta valves come in longer lengths to accommodate these deeper rims. When buying a new tube, make sure you are purchasing one with a valve long enough to clear your rim. Buying one that is too long won’t damage anything, but it won’t do any good either.

Notable Advantages

The other advantage of Presta valves is that they can take higher pressure than Schrader valves. On a mountain bike less pressure means a smoother ride over the bumpy trail. For a road bike, a fuller tire means an easier ride. Be careful when inflating your Presta valve, however, as they are more susceptible to damage. If you do need to replace your Presta valve, you will need to replace your entire tube.

Both Presta and Schrader valves have advantages and disadvantages. Mostly, you are simply stuck with whatever you have. If you do mountain biking, you have a Schrader valve. If you own a road bike, you have a Presta valve.

Magpul sells two PMAG magazines that are designed for .223/5.56×45 rounds. These are the Gen 2 and Gen 3 PMAGs. Both are very solid pieces of equipment that are made in the United States. Generally, the Gen 2 PMAGs can be found cheaper, especially if you catch a sale. If you’re wondering if the extra money is worth spending to get the Gen 3, here are the main differences between the two models.

Comparison Between Gen 2 and Gen 3 PMAG

The Gen 2 PMAG no longer ships with an included dust cover. The Gen 3 does come with a dust cover, which will not fit the Gen 2. For many people, this is not much of an issue. Dust covers are not necessary and so on this issue it is mainly personal preference that will decide for you.

A dust cover will keep debris out of your magazine and protect an unloaded magazine while it is bouncing around in whatever storage box you keep it in. If you do a lot of traveling with your equipment where wear and tear is likely to be an issue, then you might want to consider getting one. Even if you do buy the Gen 2, though, dust covers are still available that fit this model, they just won’t be included in the original purchase.

Changes with the Gen 3

The two major changes that Magpul has made to the Gen 3 compared to the Gen 2 is in the floor plate and the over insertion stop. The butt of the Gen 3 PMAG is slimmer than that of the Gen 2. This makes it easier to slip in and out of mag pouches, particularly ones that may have been a tight fit on the Gen 2.

The over insertion stop is a new feature on the spine of the Gen 3 magazines. This is an especially important feature for quick magazine changes that may prove a little too aggressive. There is no fear of over insertion of the Gen 3 which eliminates some of the danger of malfunctions.

The Gen 3 PMAG will work on all guns that take the Gen 2, but the reverse is not true. The Gen 3 will fit several non-Colt spec platforms that the Gen 2 was not compatible with. Look up a full list of compatible guns for either magazine before you make a purchase in order to avoid the frustration of ending up with equipment that you cannot use.

Many shooters have been using Magpul Gen 2 PMAGs for years now and see no reason to change. On the other hand, the Gen 3 has some additional features that may help prevent problems from arising with your equipment. No matter which PMAG you choose, you can be certain that with Magpul you are getting a quality product.

Bose Quiet Comfort headphones are some of the most popular headphones on the market today. Both the QC3 and the QC15 sell very well. With a $50 price difference between the two, it is worth taking a good hard look at them and seeing which is better suited to your needs.

Specifications and Features

The QC15 is a bigger headphone with a cup that sits around the ear. This helps to seal out all outside noise. The QC3 has memory foam pads that sit directly on the ear. These pads do create a seal to keep out noise, but not as effectively as the QC15’s cups. On the other hand, the smaller size of the QC3 makes them much more portable.

Both headphones are powered by batteries. The QC15 runs off of 1 AAA battery with a life expectancy of about 35 hours. The QC3 contains a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that runs for about 25 hours per charge. The rechargeable feature means you never have to buy new batteries for it, but the single AAA battery of the QC15 can be changed out with no waiting time for charging.

The QC15 does not reach the sound quality of the QC3. This is especially noticeable for loud music. The QC15’s carrying case is larger than the QC3’s, but it is also lighter. The QC3 leaves room in its case for an iPod.

Which One is the Best Fit?

Deciding whether to purchase the QC15 or QC3 headphones for yourself is mostly a matter of personal preference. If price is your main consideration, the QC15 is available for about $50.00 less at most retailers. If you do a lot of traveling with your headphones, than the smaller QC3 may be more convenient for you, especially as you can slip an iPod or other device right into the carrying case with the headphones.

If you mostly use your headphones in a noisy environment, than you most likely want to get the QC15 as they are better at blocking any outside noise. If, however, you wear your headphones for long periods of time at a stretch, the QC3 is a better choice. While both sets of headphones are very comfortable, the QC15 tends to place pressure on the eardrum which builds up over time if worn too long at once.

If the battery dies in your QC15, you can simply swap out a new AAA battery without waiting for anything to recharge. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about taking additional charger equipment with you when you are traveling. On the other hand, if your main concern is to have the highest sound quality possible, the extra time and hassle of recharging a battery might be worth the superior sound of the QC3.

The QC15 and QC3 headphones are two of Bose’s most popular products. Weigh your personal preferences, make your choice, and either way you will be getting a quality set of headphones.