Gear Archives

Gear – Different from Tech and Tools, gear might include the ‘gear’ we use in and around the office. Gear for camping, survival, day-to-day living and creature comforts in some cases e.g. gaming chair.

December 15, 2022September 26, 2024

Ender, Halot & Prusa 3d

3d Printers, Resin Printers – Ender, Halot & Prusa 3d

Creality, Prusa or Something else? Ultimaker

Gear – 3d Printers

With the holiday season in full swing, thought it might be worth while to do some research on a 3D printer… Should we go with Ender, Halot & Prusa 3D? Should we choose extruded filament or resin? Which brand offers the best cost/benefit ratio?

After conducting our research, in shop testing, we found a printer that meets the shop needs. Once the device has been received, we will porovide more information. Stay tuned for updates on the device, our 3D lab startup, and our first runs. Let me know in the comments below: should I choose Prusa or Creality CR Series Ender series or Halot Series?

3D Printers

There are a couple of different models, filament types, series, etc. to choose from. We are considering the Ender 5 Plus, Halot Series (Resin) versus the Prusa I3 MK3S+. Perhaps some other tools to go with the printer as well, such as wash/cure, filament, bed, boxes/enclosures, etc. There are lots of options to consider. The point is, we are looking for the best option for the shop. Help us understand why and what factors might have influenced your decision to purchase a 3D printer. Should we choose something else? Dremel, MakerBot, Ultimaker, LulzBot… there are more options out there, but it is time to narrow down the list.

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

December 3, 2022September 24, 2024

AppleTV 4K & MagSafe Battery Pack

Apple Accessories and More

4K View & Battery Life On The Go

Gear – Apple Safe Mag Pack & TV 4K

Update: AppleTV 4k & Apple Magsafe Battery Backup Review

Apple Accessories

AppleTV 4k

MagSafe Battery Pack

Let’s check out the AppleTV 4K & MagSafe Battery Pack… starting with the AppleTV. I’ve been using an older AppleTV 4K to complement the 4k monitors; but its time for an upgrade. Today is the day. I’ve decided to update the office AppleTV to AppleTV 4K to match resolutions, colors, etc. via dual screens used as separate displays. The purpose, MacBook Pro (MBP) has some shortcomings such as limitation of dual monitors or multi-monitors that are not NOT Apple branded. This seems to be a new limitation, and I’m not sure why this might be the case. I’ll leave that to your imagination to figure out. The goal is to use the new 4K version so that I’m not required to adjust resolutions to 3840 x 2160 over multiple monitors while reducing resolution/reducing pixel space via MBP settings for desktop views, apps, windows, etc.

That said, the new MBP still needs some work, I will be frank. I’m not a fan of the limited HDMI connections without Apple specific dongles or Apple monitors. I need to do address this at the hardware level while desiring to run dual screens without Apple-branded screens, monitors, or TV’s. This is a self-imposed limitation without dongles. Unfortunately, I’ve tried multiple dongles or HDMI extender hardware/software without success. iCreate products have their own limitations, and screen observations, meaning Apple OS updates create software problems by iCreate device for months… The idea is simple: run multiple screens as separate screens with the same resolution. More on the AppleTV 4K to come.

MagSafe Battery Pack

In the meantime, let’s cover the MagSafe Battery Pack. Are trips or travel in your near future? Tired of short-term battery usage, removing apps and settings to preserve battery life? Consider adding a Apple Mag Safe Battery Pack. I(we) added the Apple Mag Safe for long-term battery needs, away from the office, traveling, or going to the stores. Are you looking for a battery pack? The latest from Apple, is the MagSafe Battery Pack, also try the – Belkin BOOST Charge, Pro Magnetic Power Bank.

Honestly, these battery packs do the job and more. They are great for those who are always on the run, constantly using apps, and watching videos on their phones. If you are running multiple apps at once, playing games, watching videos, and more wirelessly, these battery packs are for you. You are not tethered to a wall or a power station. Start by buying one, and I’ll provide my final verdict in a couple of weeks. Check back soon.

Before we continue, here are a few other articles on Apple iOS, other devices and updates that you might be interested in. For example, the MagSafe Battery Pack, for finding more power on the go, using Dual SIMs and eSIMs. Apple mouse, a ‘pass’ in our book, trackpad in a pinch or some more affordable Logitech mouse will do. Alternatively, you may want to explore a more minimalist approach with LightPhone products.

Let’s conclude this article on AppleTV 4K & MagSafe Battery Packs shall we? As usual leave a comment below. Have feedback on the MagSafe Batter Pack? Apple TV 4K, MBP? Let us know what you’re thinking?

October 12, 2022October 14, 2024

Merchandise Update

October Gear Update

Gear – Sallee Technology Hats, Zip, Mugs, Zippo’s and More

Get yourself some new gear, from Sallee Technology! Out gear features top brands like The Game, @zippo.com – Zippo, @yeti.com – Yeti, Columbia, Champion, Flex-fit and more.

Merchandise Update. A full listing will be available soon, but here’s a sneak peek. Check out our latest merchandise and let us know if you would like to purchase any of our gear. Stay tuned for new products next quarter!

October Mech

Zippo

The Game Hats

New, The Game

Currently, some swag is on backorder such as i.e. out some USB devices, stickers, magnets, etc., and will return depending on demand. Let us know what you think about the merch, or if you’re looking for something special, one off, special order. Small orders, large orders, don’t care – we’re happy to accommodate where applicable… just let us know what you’re thinking.

In the backend of baseball, logistics are currently quite chaotic. Ordering can be a bit of challenge, which is why we are manually offering items to the public. We are mostly dependent on product availability, production and shipping, but we are doing our best to start on top of these issues. Let’s chat, we are happy to work with you to help you find what it is you are looking for. This merchandise post is a followup to our Midyear, New 2022 Merch post, where we shared information about the merchandise and set expectations regarding brands, quality, fit and style.

October 12, 2022September 3, 2024

iPhone 12

Apple iPhone 12, Work Phone Upgrade

Gear – iPhone 12

Need an upgrade? Make the jump, follow along with our own iPhone8/iPhone11 upgrade – iPhone 12

Let’s start with this, no, the need didn’t exactly meet the demand for an ‘upgrade’… This was more about staying on part with the other Apple products in the office. Want and need ended up being more of a test than anything else. Don’t judge the messenger here, it was a simple cost/benefit analysis over want versus need. So, the decision was made to go with the newer iPhone 12, not the latest model, but newer than the iPhone 11. Here’s the main point: with a recent switch to the SG215g for our personal use, it was time for a work update. With that in mind, the decision was made, and the Apple iPhone 12 was acquired just before the hurricane.

Iphone And Case

Case And Phone

Office Phone

Not ideal, but I’ll keep it brief. I needed to upgrade my work phone, so I went from an iPhone 11 to a 12. It was a quick upgrade, but it came with its own set of problems. My goal was to buy a more durable, newer device, while keeping it simple no fancy features like health or home IoT software. The iPhone 8, in my opinion, might be the best phone Apple has made. I’ve been using it for work and travel since it was released, and it has never let me down. That’s why I gave it a ‘buy it’ rating.

Moving from the iPhone 8 to the 11 was a good decision, as it didn’t come with unnecessary Apply Bloatware like Health, Homekit, and Siri. I find bloatware unnecessary, annoying and a waste of space and money. The 11 provided better processing power, screen time, hotspot support, and what seems like more manageable privacy and security settings for the user. However, it feels like this device is constantly sharing data, which I see as a huge negative. More power is good, but what is it really for, and does it benefit the user. This iPhone 12 now my work phones, as I couldn’t justify upgrading to the 13 or 14.

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

September 17, 2022September 27, 2024

New 2022 Merch

Midyear, New 2022 Merch

Sallee Technology LLC New 2022 Merchandise

Gear – Sallee Technology – Zip Jackets, Hoodies, Hats and Mugs

New 2022 Merch means we will have merchandise available during the busy season, which is always a good thing! Check out what’s headed to our merch shop. New for this year, we have new drinkware, throwback snap-backs, fitted camo/dark-camo Flex-fit caps and spring/athletic caps. We also have full zip fleece jackets and polos with pockets.

We currently have drinkware available, with more drinkware options set to arrive in about 2 weeks as they are being packaged and shipped today. Design, production and shipments are in progress. Interested in more Yeti products? Check out our Yeti® Ramblers – 10 (10oz) and 20 (20oz) sizes. Two The Game® collegiate hats are expected to arrive by the end of September, depending on the user portal status. These hats are a great throw-back option, Polos and Columbia® Fleece outerwear are expected to arrive in a week, with sew outs currently in production. Gear pictures will be posted shortly. In the meantime, please note that logistics and products are subject to production, inventory, and logistics. Stay tuned for more updates and pictures coming soon! most posts coming shortly, that update my friends will include the latest pictures.

Check out the 2022 merchandise available, as of October 2022. Contact us for details on sizes, quantities, colors, etc. Feel free to reach out!

April 26, 2022September 27, 2024

GTRacing Update

GTRacing Repair Update

GTRacing Chair Frame Blunder

Gear – GTRacing

So, here is the GTRacing Update. GTRacing Chair Parts Replaced.

It may be premature, but, good on you GT Racing! Dare I say GTRacing made it right? The chair is back together, holding weight as it should. No lean, squeezing, bending-feeling or crash. That’s good, we have a fix. In hindsight, while being desk chair free for a week or more, is not ideal.

The second ‘chair part’, the one not broken will be relegated to the game and electronics drawer. It goes with the other unused cables, plugs, charges, wires, random batteries etc.

While we have your attention, we will be trying other GTRacing parts, chairs etc,. A full listing will come, however, a sneak peek may serve its weight in gold here… Check out the latest merchandise after the GTRacing Update, and give us a shout if you would like to purchase our gear – new products next quarter.

Side note, with the GTRacing gear, we are looking to sort out some USB devices, stickers and magnets, depending on demand. Let us know what you think about the merch, or if you’re looking for something special, a one off, special order on GTRacing – https://gtracing.com/.

SPOILER – Fast forward, gear adjustment, learn about our new GTRacing Mesh back chair with the lounging feature and footrest posted 6/2024… enjoy!

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

August 16, 2021January 15, 2025

COLETTI CAMP POT

Coletti Camp Percolator

Get Your Own – Colletti Camp Pot

Gear – Coletti Camp Percolator

Camp Pot – Big fan of my camp percolator, or use it for everything coffee.

Lifetime guaranteed. If you’re looking for a simple, no fuss coffee pot, look no further. We tossed out the old Keurig, what a mess. The COLETTI COLETTI CAMP POT (percolator) was the answer and has now been in use for just under a year. It’s a simple 5, 7, or 9 cup pot, stainless, no frills, glass percolator top. THE MOST IMPORTANT PIECE OF THIS CONTRAPTION!

The COLETTI CAMP POT percolator is a versatile pot that can be used anywhere, in the office, outdoors, or on your next camping trip. This pot is typically used on a stove top indoors, making at least 9 cups per round. You can also opt for the 12 cup option for just a few dollars more, around $45 with tax and shipping included.

Buy A Percolator

Percolator

Pot Top

Get your own COLETTI CAMP POT… Check out the Coletti Bozeman Camp Percolator for yourself. By the way, if you choose this pot, make sure to buy an extra perc glass top. The COLETTI replacement comes 2 per pack. We broke ours by flipping the top wildly, like the wild, wild west during the ill-fated wash process. We didn’t screw the top tight enough, flipped the lid, and the top flew like a rock screaming out of a Roman Catapult onto the tile floor.

Lastly, if you’re looking for some great coffee, give Heart Roasters a shot. My favorite is the Ethiopia Worka Sakaro. As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

August 1, 2021September 26, 2024

Sallee Technology Merchandise

Sallee Technology Gear and More

Yeti™ Mugs, Columbia™ Fleeces, FlexFit™ & Champion™ Hats

Gear – Sallee Technology Merchandise

View or Purchase Sallee Technology Merchandise

More on the way, I still have a few items left in the merchandise bin. What are your thoughts on hats? Should I do a new run of mugs, maybe some Yeti® mugs? Want one? If you’re interested, let me know via email. Right now, the 20oz Tumblers are $42.

Sallee Technology Merchandise

Yeti Mugs

Yeti Tumbler

Champion Sports Hats

Champion Golf Hats

Trucker

Fleece jackets fresh off the embroidery press, are now available. We have Columbia™ – Dark Blue jackets with Sallee Technology for $80 each (only two left). All other swag is currently being ordered and will be up on the site soon. We do have a few jackets on hand, so feel free to reach out if you’re interested.

Please note that the Velcro 110 FlexFit™ Hats are currently out of stock, but we are working on replacing them with the Champion™ hats soon. As for the tumblers and other items, they are still in stock. We have a variety of merchandise available, so check out the listing below:

Merch & Gear Listing

Yeti™ 20oz Tumbler – $42 Black/Steel (raw) Logo
Columbia™ Fleece, Full Zip – $80 Dark Blue Logo: S, M, L, Xl, XXl
Champion™ Jersey Material – $25 Black/Orange Logo: One Size, Velcro Back
Champion™ Sport Material – $25 Black/Orange Logo: One Size, Velcro Back
Flexfit (Yupoong™) Mesh Trucker – $20 Faded Salmon Logo – Black: One Size, Fitted
110 Flexfit (Yupoong™) – $20 Faded Salmon Square Logo w/o text – Black: One Size, Velcro Back out of stock

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

May 14, 2021September 27, 2024

D90 Firmware 1.1

D90 Maintenance and Firmware Updates

Update – Firmware v2.0

Materials – D90

D90 Archived Update

First, it’s time for an update. It has been a few years since I last updated the software on my Nikon D90, so the time has come to do do. Since the camera itself has been archived by Nikon, we will treat this article as a reference materials as well. While the D90 is a cool piece of gear, we also want to assist those who are looking to preserve their cameras. Therefore, the focus of this article has shifted a bit. It is now centered on firmware, where to find the downloadable content, and how to continue maintaining the D90. Let’s make sure we update the D90 firmware from version 1.1 to version 2.0.

The D90 has been archived by Nikon, and you can find more details on the Nikon D90 Website. Check out the archival pages for more information. I am sharing a few photos of the D90 a.k.a “Dub9” DSLR. Can I call it a “Workhorse” still? It may not have been at the top of the market in its day, but with a little love, care and a few minutes, you can bring your D90 up-to-date with the D90 Firmware version 1.1 update. When updating, make sure to use the correct SD cards to protect your memory cards and camera equipment.

D90 Update

Update Camera”

Covers On

Updated

Don’t forget to leave a comment! Also, be aware of a few “gotchas” during the process. Backup all photos and video before starting. It’s best to back up before beginning. Remove any add-ons and modifications where applicable, especially any aftermarket parts and accessories that are attached. We want to have a common baseline before the firmware update. Reinstall aftermarket parts and accessories after the update process is complete. Test out anything you think might need a few extra minutes. Otherwise, after the firmware update, you should be good to go!

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

January 30, 2021September 26, 2024

SPACE PENS

Buy Yourself A Fisher Space Pen

FISHER® SPACE PENS

Gear – Fisher Space Pen

Need a pen? Does anyone have a pen? Please, can I borrow a pen? ((Oh, what is this I see…)) A Fisher SPACE PEN? What’s going on? Is this some kind of alien artifact?

Yes, indeed it is a Fisher Space Pen. You can get yours here, just click the Fisher hyperlink and you’re all set! Moving on, this may increase my bounce rates, but who’s keeping track at the point? Let’s take a closer look, first, let’s purchase one! There are many ways to buy these pens, but the manufacturer’s website works best for me. We purchased ours at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Easy-peasy. One thing to note, Fisher also makes great pens with emblems, NASA Anniversary or Commemorative Pens and more. We choose the basic one, for a full list, check out the NASA Fisher collection. Heck, I should’ve shared photos of the pen, so the Fisher collection shopping experience will have to suffice for now.

Fisher Bullet Pen

It’s rather small, about half the size of a normal pen, textured, black. You can open the pen by sliding the front cap off the back half and replacing the cap on the back end. This will create a full sized writing instrument.

I use these pens for all my ‘writing/drawing’ needs including writing, drawing, shading, point/pointillism, sketch lines, home improvement (tasks, opening boxes, and random drone part bags). open boxes, random drone part bags). These writing instruments were designed to be used in outer space! Need I say more? Check out images on spacepen.com

Have a need? Look over our other pens, art supplies and more in this two part series – Part 1 -Drawing Tools and Part 2 – Drawing Tools

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?