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Synology Launches Version 5.0 of their DSM Disk Management Software

When I reviewed the Synology DS213j, I was impressed with not only the physical device, but also Synology’s Disk Management software called DiskStation Manager AKA DSM.  Today, Synology released DSM version 5.0 which includes a revamped user experience, overall performance boosts, optimized multimedia and mobile experiences, and more.  Check out the full list of features at Synology’s website.


Maxxeon WorkStar 340 Pocket Floodlight Review

Flashlights are one of those items you don’t give much thought to until you need one. Once you do, you’ll want it to work correctly, casting a bright light where you need it. Good build quality and comfortable to hold are also key for a great flashlight. If this fits your flashlight needs, you might need a Maxxeon WorkStar 340.



Amphiro A1 Review: A Futuristic Energy-Saving Shower Accessory

The amphiro a1 is a digital meter that displays the water and energy usage in real-time during your shower.  It installs easily and does not need any batteries; it also grades your shower from A+ through G-, and sometimes makes you feel guilty for your long, steamy shower.  It retails for $89.


Wheelhaus is a Rather Weird House (and I Like It!)

Tow it, drop it, hook it up—that’s all it takes to add living space to almost any lot. Wheelhaus makes prefab homes designed for “living large with less.” These rolling cabins start at $76,000 for just under 350 sq ft of living space. It is a cool way to add living space. Check out the styles.


Help Me Find the Best Universal Remote, Please

Okay, I’ve had it! We have too many remotes! Apple TV, Direct TV, TV, DVD, Roku, a Vizio sound bar, and I may even be forgetting one! Has anyone tried one of those smart remotes with a screen? I’m considering a Logitech Harmony remote, but I’m wondering if there is something even better out there?



Brew Cutlery Makes Loving Beer Even Easier

I recently built a home bar; between glass wear, jiggers, shakers and openers, there are tons of gadgets I could fill my drawers with, but a recent Kickstarter campaign has introduced an item I have never seen. Brew Cutlery combines stainless steel eating utensils with a bottle opener. A $20 Kickstarter contribution will let you eat, drink and be merry!


WeMo Devices May Be Subject to Hacks

According to researchers from security firm IOActive, the popular home automation product known as WeMo might be susceptible to some  surprising security vulnerabilities. IOActive says a rogue user could remotely control attached devices, install malicious firmware, and remotely monitor your activities. The firm issued a critical security advisory recommending unplugging affected WeMo products.


Sno Brum Review – a Must for Snowy Winters

We have had an unusually high amount of snow in my area this winter. It means I’ve spent what felt like hours cleaning off our cars, but hopefully cleaning off our vehicles will be a bit easier with our newest purchase — a Sno Brum!


Thecus N2310 NAS Review – A Fantastic Entry Level NAS

I love my digital media, so I built my own Home Theater PC that streams all of my movies and TV shows to my HDTV.  So, a Network Attached Storage system is perfect for me.  The Thecus N2310 is an entry-level NAS with two Hard Drive bays, RAID support and a slew of other features.  It retails for $159.


Blend and Cook Soupmaker by Cuisinart Review

The Blend and Cook Soupmaker by Cuisinart lets kitchen culinarians make hot soup on a chilly day, then totally switch to frozen mixed drinks in the summertime with this flexible right in the glass blender jar. The black finish design looks great and helps with stains, while other advantages include BPA-free materials and the familiar spill lip on the base.


Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Micro-cut Shredder Review – Protect Your Personal Data!

Identity theft is a very real concern these days. We try to use common sense, like regularly monitoring our bank accounts and shredding personal documents, but I keep breaking our shredders. “You get what you pay for” is definitely a good motto when it comes to motorized paper chomping machines, so we sprang for a decently equipped Amazon Basics Shredder.


Keyport Slide Ice Introduced to Reinvented Keychain Lineup

I hate having a pocketful of keys! Between work and home, I seem to have several pounds of them with me daily. The Keyport Slide 2.0 reinvented the keychain, allowing users to carry up to six keys or inserts at one tim,e keeping them neat and easy to use; their newly introduced Ice Keyport can be purchased for $29.



Technology Predictions for 2014

Technology Predictions for 2014 are here and it’s a predictable theme – new ways to offer the most popular tech. We put a lot of value in technology and media, so we don’t feel important unless we’re doing something with it…and quickly. Here are some predictions for tech trends in 2014.




TYLT VU Wireless Charging Pad – a Stylish and Modern Charger

One of the things I love about the new Nokia Windows Phones is that they can utilize inductive charging. Being able to lay my phone on a Qi enabled charging pad throughout the day without plugging in any cables is too convenient; having a charging pad that looks as stylish as the $69.99 TYLT VU is pretty cool, too.