Tag Archives: gadgets

iPhone DLNA Players

I’m a fan of Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) because of its promise of using standards-based technology to make it easier for consumers to use, share and enjoy their digital photos, music and videos. When I got my Buffalo Linkstation, I started streaming movies and music from it to the Playstation 3. But I had to stay in front of the TV.

When I got my iPhone 4, I got a media player that I can use anywhere in the house. I was lucky enough to be able to get VLC from the App Store while it was available. However, it meant copying files using iTunes to the iPhone. Somewhat, archaic to say the least and definitely a far cry from what’s possible with DLNA. So I went around searching for a DLNA player. Here is the result of my research.

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Sena UltraSlim Leather Pouch

I’ve said that putting the gorgeous iPhone 4 inside a case generally fuglifies it. But such is not the case with the Sena UltraSlim Leather Pouch. It is a slip-in pouch made of luxurious textured soft leather. The inside is lined with soft velvety material to protect your phone from scratches.  The bottom has unobtrusive holes for the speakers so that you can still hear your phone. Definitely well-thought-out. And the best thing about it is that it fits like a good high-quality leather glove. The fit is so perfect that it add negligible bulk to the phone. It is  is a perfect match to the understated elegance of the iPhone.

Rating: 5/5

Printer Blues

I don’t usually use paper but the same doesn’t go for the rest of the world so now I need to print and photocopy some documents. Unfortunately, my Samsung SCX-4300 multifunction printer ran out of toner (like a year ago). So I have to go get a new toner cartridge. I scoured all the shops in the mall but there wasn’t any available! That’s what sucks about these new printers. The cartridges cost close to the complete printer itself and most of the time they’re not even available. You end up having to buy another printer or go to a ink refilling station. It would be great if someone manufactures a standard cartridge and have everyone else build around that cartridge. Someone with clout like Apple. iCartridge, anyone?

DIY Micro SIM Adapter

Michelle borrowed the iPhone for the wedding she attended last night. Since my micro SIM won’t work with the E51, I had to make my own Micro SIM Adapter. After about half an hour, I was able to make one and, more importantly, it actually worked. Here’s how to do it in case you find yourself in a similar predicament.

Things you need:

  1. An old SIM
  2. The old SIM’s carrier card
  3. The micro SIM’s carrier card
  4. Some tape
  5. A cutter
  6. A nail file

Procedure:

  1. Tape the two SIM’s carrier cards together with the SIM’s carrier card at the bottom and the Micro SIM’s carrier card at the top. This will serve as your guide.
  2. Replace the old SIM into it’s carrier card.
  3. Use the cutter to trace a slot for the Micro SIM on the old SIM using the hole on the Micro SIM’s carrier card as a guide
  4. Slowly but surely cut progressively deeper into the old SIM until you create a hole. Be careful as the sides are a bit thin.
  5. File a bit with the nail file for a snug fit.
  6. Voila! Your own Micro SIM Adapter!

Speck PixelSkin

Okay so putting the gorgeous iPhone 4 inside a case generally fuglifies it. Nor is it recommended to put it in a case with a covered back due to spontaneous cracking issues. However, there are times when you need a measure of protection. Depending on how rough your destination is you can choose between a bumper to a heavy-duty case like the Otterbox Defender.

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