Category: Materials

Materials – Books, research, papers, materials that might offer solutions, schematics, specifications, directions, etc. and fun.

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Brown Widow Spiders

Introducing, The Latrodectus Geometricus

Brown Widow

Spiders Of The Southern U.S.

Materials – Arachnids

Not the usual subject, Brown Widow Spiders, but an interesting one.

How many of you know what a Black Widow Spider is? The Latrodectus Hesperus – the Black Widow variety or true widows of the wild. And now, how many of you knew there was a widow more potent than the Black Widow? More importantly, the Brown Widow Spider aka Latrodectus Geometricus.

Never in a million years would I have thought I’d run into one of these widows, count it; now 4 separate encounters. Color may vary, but the one’s I’ve had the pleasure to meet have the classic, RED hourglass markings and two-tone – brown and black leg bans. Four of four have had egg sacks, so we are dealing with arachnids protecting their own. Again, not something I’ve run into often, actually ever. More so over this past year (2023/2024), I would say summer to late summer months.

Those of you who have Arachnophobia be aware; great movie by the way. Jeff Daniels, John Goodman, Julian Sands… more, however, I can’t remember off the top of my head (which is beside the point here). Pick up the Arachnophobia DVD, Prime Video or Blu-ray. I don’t BETA there for those Sony fans, sorry, another great piece of tech lost to history.

For those of you who want facts on the widow species, check out the following link, it’s a UF IFAS Extension page on “brown widow spiders”. Click for more details on the Brown Widow Spiders here in Florida.

Highlights and Takeaways
  • Brown Widow, just as dangerous as it’s cousin, the Black Widow, along with three others – Souther, Northern and Red Widows.
  • Most commonly found in SRQ, the Brown Widow variety
  • Including South Florida, widows can be found in So. Cal, CO, Arkansas, MS, AL and GA.
  • More importantly, invasive
  • Venom, and Risk, while typically found in their dark corner (see picture), Brown Widow venom can be more potent than it’s cousin
  • The Widows like their corners, builtin protected areas, eaves etc., boxes, shutters and pool cages!

Let’s get to prevention and control, as I said, four sightings in the latest months.

  • Clean Up, often
  • Outside, inside, vacuum webbing and all.
  • Don’t forget to clean out the vacuum!
  • Clean up debris piles, look for ‘shelter in plain sight or shelter in place’, a good hiding spot for Brown Widows
  • Call a professional, pre/post clean up
Find Other Stories of Interest – Electronics, Things-to-do and Other
Takeaway

Clean, clean and clean some more. High pressure washer, wet vac… create a cleaning routine and stick to it. Remove debris, seal up holes and cracks etc.

Be vigilant. Honestly, I had no idea, par for the course I guess. There are all kinds, to many to count sometimes, here in the southern swaths (maintained, cleared, or mowed parts) of Florida. Time to get a move on this cleaning. I’ll follow up with an update at some point, for now; I’ll leave you to it. Thanks for dropping by, don’t forget to leave a comment, follow us on X – @salleecreates. I’ll post more pictures, this assumes more encounters… so, I’m hoping the subject lives on as reference material or good to know! Cheers.

Resources
Brown Widow Spiders – UF/IFAS Extension – Brown Widow Spiders

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Transformative Cheese

Who Moves The Cheese?

Who Moved My Cheese

A Good Read: “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson M.D.

Materials – “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson, M.D

Let’s cover this allegorical metaphorical story. It’s a lovely little tale that I’ve been wanting to explore for a while now, as as Dr. Johnson’s work has been referenced numerous times in my life over the past 15 years.

Despite not having had the time or energy to read it until now, we are finally tackling Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson, M.D. I like to think of the story as a Transformative allegory about Cheese or money.

Famous last words, ‘who removes life’s blockers’? Well, you do. I’ll be brief: the book is interesting, seemingly shining the proverbial spotlight on ‘change’. I enjoyed the picture developed while various personas worked around “Who Moved My Cheese”. It’s an interesting take on transformation, identifying personal blockers, working through issues, ultimately; how to overcome and  transform your ‘actions’ either in both your personal and professional life.

The key here is action – you’ve got to do something, anything; just do something (to transform) your activity into actionable, do-able and sustainable outcomes. In this case, finding new paths, ways to find success while identifying pros and cons to looking elsewhere. This transformative ‘Cheese’, if you will is a great business book to share with others. Give the ‘secret’ away, but more importantly read more on Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson M.D.. Read reviews or commentaries on the book and download or order it. This is an unsolicited and unpaid advertisement, so take it at face value. The value is in the read – a great little work on transformation.

Finally, look, I’m not a personal growth paperback pusher (or digital read), I thought I would mention it for those of you who like to learn the value of change or in my case, communication via Audible.

Find materials and references and other resources such as books like Dr. Johnson’s “Who Moved My Cheese” about knowing when to change; or the ‘how to improve and change, your ‘change IQ’, coupon codes and updates such as FAA Updates to stay informed about warnings, TFR’s and know when and where to fly. The same goes for electronics updates, upgrades and firmware releases. We also have Nikon Firmware, Innova Multimeter “how-to’s”, and AC Gilbert American Flyer Model Train Schemas. All relevant in the technological world, or if you enjoy small gadgets and working on electronics! Enjoy!

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Ham Radio Study

Get Hamm’ed, Become A Licensed Operator

Ham Radio Exam

Get Licensed – Ham Radio Technician License – Use The HamRadioExam App

Materials – Ham Study

HamRadioExam – Technicians License. For those of you seeking Ham Radio study guides, licensing questions, study help, etc. look no further. Give Roy W.’s app HamRadioExam or HRCC Ham Study a try.

Although time seems to fly by, it is important to find time to study, take the test, and pass this exam. Like most secondary actions or things you might ‘want’ to do, do not continue to put off the testing… Try the Ham Radio Exam App – Technician’s License for yourself. With a swipe of a finger, you can test your knowledge, take practice tests and practice quizzes on the side. Clash of Clans, Conflict of Nations WW3 aside… most of our time has been spent practicing for this exam. Overkill? Maybe, but like many certifications, and  licenses there are times when you just need to know the basics. In this case, Ham Radio operators have to take greater responsibility with their hobby, so to speak. Why? The FCC fines…

Let us begin by considering ARRL membership, which is not necessary, but it’s worth checking out before you delve into the  FCC licensing. Continuing with your testing is worthwhile, as it may take days, weeks, or even a few months to fully grasp the knowledge needed to pass your exam through HamRadioExam – Technician License now. Just took a peak at the local exam schedule provided by (https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session)ARRL (Amateur Radio Association) for our own testing time. More importantly, if you have not started the process yet, being here on the ARRL site, learn why you should obtain your Ham Radio License.

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

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FAA Hurricane Update

In the Know, During Inclement Weather

FAA Hurricane Alerts

Hurricane Ian Alerts Update

Materials – FAA Hurricane Update

Know What To Do Pre/Post Hurricane Ian – Before you fly, understand the current conditions in the sky above you…

FAA Hurricane Update. Remember, the drone industry is constantly evolving, growing and maturing. Drone enthusiasts will always want to fly, so be sure to prioritize safety. This year, the FAA has organized a safety awareness day for drone pilots, federal representatives, educators, drone hobbyists and more… On June 18, 2022, join your fellow drone pilots for FAA Drone Safety updates and drone safety days. To participate – look for ‘about drone day’, support, or host an event. This message is in reference to FAA notice number” NOTC2405. For those seeking more information or a drone piloting app, consider trying Airmaps.

Give Airmaps A Go

For those of you who are interested in learning more about open FAA communications, licensed drone updates etc. feel free to reach out to us or leave a comment below. Don’t forget to look up more information on Airmaps, download if you can. Great all-in-one app for drone flight and the need to stay safe. Especially for those flying during inclement weather, storms and night-time flight. I’ll post more FAA, FAA Hurricane communications in the future.

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HRCC – Ham Study

Need Ham Study? Choose HRCC

HRCC Ham Courses

Get The Ham Radio Crash Course License Today

Materials – Ham Study

“Want to Get Your Ham Radio License?” HRCC- Ham Study, learn on your time, when you want and how you want. Give Crash Course a look-over.

Choose HRCC – Ham Study, let’s get started! I wanted to tee up another mini-series or online study tool. In this case, we will focus on the Crash Course, – a study tool/series for those interested in learning about ham radios, their operation, and the fundamentals needed to obtain a ham license.

Ever wanted to give HAM radios a try? Now is the time to try, both the crash course and a friend will help.

From an outsider’s perspective, this seems like the way to go. I have never used a ham radio before, and I don’t have anyone to guide me through the process. I believe this is a good starting point, a launching pad into the world of ham radio. For those interested in out lab work, we have included this in our ‘materials’ category for future reference, study. Once again, we are recommending this HRCC – Ham Study, specifically the  HRCC – Ham Radio Crash Course is the best option, give it a try. Finally, for those of you in the radio space, here is a quick how-to multimeter pamphlet. Learn how to better understand electric, waves, etc. how this might improve your ham radio hobby.

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D90 Firmware Update

Nikon D90 Support and Software Upgrades

D90 - Nikon

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

Update Camera”

Covers On

Covers On

Updated

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! More on updates, FAA Drone Safety Updates, a how-to on the multimeter or AF 312 wiring schematics. 

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

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FAA Drone Safety Update

Update: FAA Drone Decision, Flight Over People & Flight At Night

FAA Safety Warning

Flight Awareness, Times and Resources Now Available

Materials – Flight At Night

FAA Drone Safety Update – Notice Number: NOTC1758

FAA Drone Safety Update it’s time for some training for you Part 107 license holders. What about the waivers? The waiver deadline is April 21, 2021, so please make note of that date. Requirements for flight at night and/or over people, moving vehicles still require FAA waivers that date. Moving forward, waivers and requirements will need additional information, especially for flights over people and/or at night.

My assumption, after speaking with the FAA, is that the traditional licensing examination and process will change. It is likely that licensing for unmanned aircraft will be more similar to the boating license process in Florida. This may involve a classroom environment, quizzes, and tests on practical knowledge and safe flying. Let’ wait and see what updates and regs. are implemented. I am not comfortable speculating on the matter, how they will happen and when. You can be the judge!

Side note, FAA Drone Safety Updates are on going, so continue to use and test Airmaps  for the latest updates. How about disasters and hurricanes? As described on Airmaps some forum responses were lost in the purge due to a spammer attack. It will help you stay informed about regulations and rule updates.  

FAA Drone Update
B4UFly

B4UFly

DroneZone

DroneZone

Check out the FAA’s Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) B4UFLY App, FAA DroneZone or give the FAA a call or email for clarification. It’s pretty straight-forward. As always, feel free to leave a comment below and let us know what you’re thing! Fairly straight forward. As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

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Multimeter PDF

Innnova Multimeter

Learn How To Use Your Multimeter

Innova Multimeter 3320 Manual

Download the Innova 3320 Multimeter Manual

Materials – Innova Multimeter Manual PDF*

Archive – Innova 3320 Multimeter Manual

Click the Innova 3320 Multimeter PDF link below. For those of you who own an Innova 3320 Multimeter tool here is the link from Innova – form 3320. I don’t believe the manual was ever included in the original packaging. Buzz kill. PUN INTENDED. Not a huge fan of barcodes, nor the exclusion of manuals when purchasing tools. Might be helpful in your ham radio, tech and lab work studies. So, let’s work with what we have, again, a workaround for the time being.

However, QR codes help if you misplace your copy or Innova manual, not my preference. One improvement from my perspective Innova… kindly provide a manual with purchase. Provide a QR code for lost manuals or backup. While I’m on the topic, the barcode route requires a smartphone, tablet or smart device to capture the images, process the code (website link) and a web browser to view the document. Adobe Acrobat is required here for the Multimeter PDF Manual, for those of you who don’t have Adobe Reader handy. Again, not trying to belabor the point, a simple, newsprint weight or style, 8″x11″ (stapled or unstapled, doesn’t matter, bonus if it is in order) works as well.

Finally, when purchasing tools to evaluate electrical output, it probably should have directions. Again, sensitive subject. So, for the sake of simplicity, the Innova Multimeter archive has been written. As usual leave a comment below, share your thoughts on the use of barcodes to replace printed manuals, let us know what you’re thinking? 

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AF 312 Wiring Schema

AC Gilbert Model Trains – The American Flyer Series

AF 312 Wiring Schema - Archived American Flyer Locomotive Wiring

American Flyer Wiring Schema

Materials – AC Gilbert Wiring Schema

Rewire – AF 312, with the AF 312 Wiring Schema

I thought this might come in handy for those of you out there, tinkering and wrenching with old model trains, trying to keep our historic, scale models running smoothly. I recently, needed to rewire a 50’s AF 312 Locomotive and Tinder (using the AF 312 Wiring Schema). Also, for future reference, two other models are included the diagrammatic illustration.

Drone Accessories
train truck wheels2

Wheels

train electronic, re-solder

Re-solder Power

The teardown effort went smoothly, with only a little trouble encountered with the tinder card. Resoldering the burnt wires wasn’t a pleasant task. However after swapping in some new wires, fresh resin, and solder, we were back in business. We cleaned out the tinder cart, removing any debris, paint, and oil deposits. The same care was taken with the wheel set, ensuring the original parts ran as they should. This effort aims at restoring and bringing the model trains back to life.

AC Gilbert Schema Diagram

Next, a similar rewire requiring coils is needed for this locomotive, but it does not have those parts. Those items seem to be missing at this point, causing a wiring and parts issue. They appear to be charging coils and connections on the circuitboard, solidifying the connection underneath the locomotive’s body. Unfortunately, this train seems to be missing parts, possibly due to age, wear or simply being lost. Unfortunately, these models need replacement parts for an aging model locomotive set so that this train can ride the rails consistently. 

The rewire challenge is straight-forward, but be prepared to face challenges. Preparation is essential! Check back soon, to see if we can locate the required pieces. In the meantime, visit an AC Gilbert American Flyer train website – www.thegilbertgallery.org that cover s-scale trains, including the #336 Union Pacific Northern and the #293 New Haven Pacific locomotives which are similar to the train we are refurbishing (AF 312 Wiring Schema). Before you go, for what it’s worth, check out the multimeter post, or keep it as a how-to for multimeters. Feel free to leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts!