OutPut

May 10, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Touchbar

Glue And All

Teardown and Rebuild M1 Touchbar

M1 Update – Touch bar

Take your time! I can’t stress this enough. This process of building this feature article, the M1 Touchbar, will require time, patience and a steady hand. It is important to take your time and proceed with caution. The article includes over 50 steps, so proper case is essential. If needed, consider seeing a professional help. There are easier alternatives available, but they may be more expensive.

For example, you could purchase the correct make/model upper case where the touch bar does not need to be removed and replaced. However, finding the right parts may not be as simple as it seems, especially for a model that is just coming out of warranty. This challenge is common when repairing newer or cutting-edge electronics. In some cases, it may be easier to purchase a new computer, second-hand computer and replace only the parts from the existing machine.

Keep Your Work Area Clean, Clean As You Go

We clean up as we go, there were glass fragments before, during and after this process. Handle with caution and care. Glass and debris (dirt, hair, fuzz etc.) must be cleaned up as you go. The goal is to leave it better than the you found it! Ditto on Teardown. The same goes for the battery, battery cable, main screw, hinges, LCD cables, display, display hinge covers, cables (springs), antenna cables and assembly, LCD, remove antennae, main hinge screws, and remove LCD. First, perform an LCD check to ensure the new LCD works.

Disassemble Upper Cables

Board Cable(s)

Disconnect Board Cable(s)

Unplug Connectors

Disconnect all Cable(s)

Board Cable

Starting here with the upper disassembled, we have the main logic board, power brackets, cable brackets. We need to disconnect the trackpad, speakers, logic board flex screws and cables. This is where we can begin the touch bar assembly replacement. Everything is bundled up, with covers, varying screws, and electronics tape. It is important to have your replacement ready once you have removed the main board, speakers, and trackpad. This is where things get tricky!

Continue Disassembly & Board

LCD Removed

Board Screw(s)

Continue Disassembly

Motherboard Screw(s)

Board Cables

Additional Screw(s)

Clean Motherboard Space

Brush Debris

Vacuum Debris

It’s handy to have your tool kit out. If not, give Amazon a quick call or pull up iFixit and scroll. You’re going to need adhesive remover, gloves, and glasses you know, the essentials when working with glass, and chemicals on small electronics.

We will start with the flat pry bar on the front (assuming all touch bar parts have been dismantled or ‘torn down’). We will slowly pry and spray our adhesive remover down behind the touch bar glass and the metal upper. It’s more fun if you have more adhesive remover than what we had during the refurb process. Not much left after the mobile device teardowns a few months back.

Touchbar

Touch Assembly

Touch Cable(s)

Touchbar Cable(s)

Unfold Flex Cable(s)

Glue Remova

Glue Release

Touch Removed

Attach Touch Cable(s)

Unfold Flex Cable(s)

Ok, so first we remove the glue, glass, and finally the touch bar on the front by accessing it through the upper back. Then, it’s a simple process of replacing the touch bar. We need to be careful to remove the backing that will adhere the M1 Touchbar to the upper case, flex cable in hand through the upper or touch bar bracket and reassemble the touch bar cables and housing.

Throughout the rebuild process, we kept the screen protector film on to protect the screen. Below, you can find a number of images documenting each step of the process. Proceed with caution!

Touchbar Verification

Remove Cover

Cover Removed

Power On

Touch bar Test

OS Testing

Wrapping up, the M1 Touchbar has been installed, and all parts have been reassembled. Now let’s cover the conclusion. Once the machine is back together, a quick test is needed. We run the machine services mode, working with the drive, and checking what’s on it.

We wipe the main drive, rename it, rebuild it and reinstall it. Some quick terminal snippets and a reboot later, the process is complete. Once reinstalled, we remove any all all software (bloat) that we can, and we are off to the races. This laptop will be used at some point to run ham radio software, so I am hoping to install Linux on the main drive and use it as I have done with my previous machines. Well, that concludes the refurbish process/effort. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email, Cheers

Series Complete, Review Previous Posts

Lastly, good luck with your own Self Service Repair, and the same goes for the Parts catalog -https://selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home. The build continues on the M1, so be sure to check out the subsequent articles (5 in total) M1 Refurb, Visual Inspection and Teardown, M1 Touchbar, and Screen & Keys. Enjoy! A friendly reminder, It’s vital in my opinion to use OEM parts. IMO (in my opinion), if you can’t, consider second -hand options via Amazon or eBay. Additionally, the parts list is very helpful for those familiar with the process. If you’re not, don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re in a pinch. I’m happy to help or help guide you to the right support method or service.

March 22, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Screen & Keys

Teardown And Rebuild

M1 Teardown – Screen & Keys

M1 Arrow Key, LCD

LCD and keys, can be tedious, be careful and be aware of the process; ‘teardown’ process.

Visual Inspection, Keys

Starting with the easiest part of the refurbishment process – what is the easiest part of the build? The keys. Keys, Screen/LCD and then the touch bar. Please note, the refurbishment process required two teardowns, so to speak. First, let’s verify the working parts and inspect the touch bar on it’s own. The process, you could say, is a one-step job. However, I did this job in two parts for the sake of my own sanity.

The key here, is this: I know that if I could get the screen working, we would be in good shape. Cost aside, I was trying to avoid purchasing the M1 upper case which holds all parts associated with the computer. So, in other words, it’s a no-brainer, keys on the keyboard, LCD screen, then touch bar.

Teardown

Screws and Bottom Case

Apply Suction

Visual Inspection

Battery Cable

Remove Cable

Board Screw

A Closer Look

Screw Removed

Hinge Covers

Cover Screws

Left Main Hinge

Right Main Hinge

Internal Repair, Replace LCD

Start the teardown bell! We’ve completed our inspection and are beginning with the easiest of the three R/R (remove and replace) parts in this teardown. Keys can sometimes be tricky, so if you are familiar with them, please refer to the video below. If keys are a confusing concept to you, just focus on the left arrow key. There are several online resources available for reference, with Snazzy providing a helpful video walkthrough of the process. We breeze through the key change with ease.

For more detailed information, you can also check out Snazzy Labs, quick video on how to replace keys. It’s important to note – that there may be some differences between models, especially the M1. That’s why the video is so helpful! The key takeaway is that quick snap keys convenient but can tricky if you are not familiar with how scissor clips work. I recommend purchasing new keys (up, down, left and right) – make sure to get the ‘left arrow’ key) for a simple slide an click installation process. It’s as easy as pie.

Moving On To The Display

So, the cracked screen… We used a clamp tool and suction cups to get under the bottom case. A recommendation: iFixit has a variety of tools and parts for fixing things. We’ll talk more about them later, but we have bought a few items for them. You will also need adhesive remover, can you guess where we got ours? This is not a paid advertisement, but they have some great tools if you don’t have anything in your electric/technical toolbox.

We start by removing the bottom case when replacing the screen. Beginning with the batter cable for the M1 Screen & Key’s fix, it’s important to be carful as cables and parts are delicate and can easily break. So, remove the cable cover, battery cable, and screws. The most nerve-wracking part is dealing with the different sizes of screws, types of drivers, and prying tools required for the job (TORX, pryer(s), spudgers, tweezers etc). Once the battery cables and screws are removed, we can unscrew the hinge covers and move onto the antennas. It can be challenging to see the screws on the antennas, so good luck!

Teardown Upper, Goal LCD Removal

Locate Antennae Bay

Remove Cable(s)

Antennae Screw(s)

Remove Screw(s)

Antennae Screw(s)

LCD Removal and Replace

The antenna will need additional cables, screws and bars leading down to the antenna and LCD springs. After installing those items, we will once again remove the antenna wire cover and detach the wires. It is important to exercise caution and be mindful of leaving the piece in better condition than when we found it. When removing covers, do so gently to keep glued area clean and free of debris (we had to address some glass bits).

Teardown Continues With the Antennae and Cables

Prep Antennae

Antennae Screw(s)

Remove Cable Connectors

Antennae Cable(s) Removed

Hinge(s)

Antennae Cleared

Once, the antenna bar is clear, the LCD hinge screws will need to be removed, along with the springs and mounting hardware. Voila, the LCD has been detached.

Antennae, Hinges and Test LCD

Remove Display

LCD Hinges

Reattach LCD

M1 Screen & Keys Wrap Up

This concludes the M1 Screen & Keys section of the refurbishment process. As mentioned earlier, we will now proceed to the touch bar. We went back, replaced all screws and cables to confirm that the LCD swap and key are working as expected, and we found that the touch bar was not working. We verified all parts (sans the touch bar) continued with wiping and cleaning in the following post. If you missed the first three articles, you can find those here: 1. Self Repair, 2. Refurb, and 3. Visual Inspection, Teardown. Cheers.

March 18, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Visual Inspection & Teardown

Work To Identify Norms, Baseline Tests

M1 Inspection – Screen, Touch bar & Keys

M1 Inspection Report

Time will be relevant here, take your time, clean up as you go; we will be replacing several items, the screen, touch bar and keys on the M1 MBP.

Inspection, Condition

First, let’s start with the inspection. Let’s call it the M1 Visual Inspection & Teardown. Shall we begin? We will start with the physical inspection, then move into the software inspection, computational tests and gather the relevant information to start the refurbishment. So, what is the physical damage? Does this damage impact the computers ability to function or compute? In turn, we want to know where the damage is and how it might impact the machine’s performance, computing power, UI (User Interface) etc…

Visual Hardware Inspection

Top Case

Left Bottom Case Corner

Corner Right

Side Case Blemishing

Screen Issues

Touch Issues

Keys

Keys & Touch

Sand, Glass Debris

Secondly, we can observe screen issues, such as LCD problems where the screen is affected by broken glass or screen distortion. Upon close examination, scratches and broken/cracked glass can be seen in the black sublayer of the LCD screen. At the bottom of the display, near the hinge, and just about the touch bar. There may have been some debris or object inside this screen area when the computer was closed by the user. At least, that is my hunch.

Now, as for the case, the metal case appears worn but not excessively so. All corners have some damage, scratches, etc., but overall it seems okay (the case did it’s job). There is nothing that raises a red flag indicating damage that could cause internal or computing issues.

Interfaces: LCD, Trackpad and Keyboard

Thirdly, in the next step of the M1 Visual Inspection & Teardown article, let’s inspect the keyboard. The directional arrow is missing and the touch bar is no longer illuminating… I wonder if the key came off and damaged the screen some how? Not likely, but something appears to have been closed in the laptop where the touch bar and screen would meet upon closing the laptop. Another takeaway is that the machine may need an overhaul, or a new upper (upper case, which can be extremely expensive as it will include all parts ).

Finally, parting out, or fixing each piece, individually is not recommended. Now a disclaimer – this is my own machine. Typically ,items under warranty will be processed through Apple via Apple Care. Utilize Apple Care or Apple+ where you can, assuming you’ve purchased the warranty/insurance. If not, things can get expensive. There are resources out there as you can imagine. Hopefully posts like this and those following help to provide some guidance in dire straits.

Ok, now that we got that out, let’s get to the first fix; this left arrow key and LCD screen. Quickly, see other articles linked to this story: Self Repair, Refurb, Screen & Keys and Touchbar

March 13, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Refurb

Refurb Update – Keys, Touchbar and Screen – Images being prepped

M1 Mid 2020 Refurb process – Keys, Touchbar and Screen

Not recommended, but if you’re in a pinch, there is a way to continue with the M1 Refurb without purchasing a new M1 upper and/or M1 full assembly. A reminder, I should mention the Apple Self Repair help and Parts/Catalog. All links are handy to have in a pinch.

Blocker and Resolution

An all in one post was supposed to be the next article in this series. However, it will be split into two separated articles as continuation of the M1 Refurb process. One will focus on the screen and keys, while the other will cover the touch bar repair. Since the touch bar repair is quite invasive, it makes more sense to address the screen and keys separately and then tackle the touch bar in another post. The will result in a lengthy post, as you can imagine.

Where are the future posts, today? Funny you asked, as I’ve got most, if not all 25 plus images ‘in-process’ – size, color, lighting etc. For all intents and purposes, the story line is complete. The pre-post work is also complete at this point. I think there were around 50 steps to remove, replace, and install the touch bar, so we will make it as streamlined as we can. More to come, check back in a few days, as we should have the post ready to go.

Jump Ahead

Okay, let’s fast forward, now that the series has come to it’s conclusion. With that we got that out of the way, you can continue the journey from start to finish here with some helpful links: 1. Self Repair, 2. Visual Inspection & Teardown, 3. Screen & Keys and 4. Touchbar.

March 2, 2024September 27, 2024

M1 Self Service Repair

Repair, and Fix Tech

M1 Self Service Repair – Apple Documentation

M1 Repair – Self Repair Documentation, Websites etc

Those of you who are not certified, no worries. We use the links below to fix various Apple products, iPhones, iPads, MBP’s (Macbook Pro’s) and this M1 Self Service Repair as noted. No longer certified? It’s a breeze! Never certified, there are challenges, but this article will help. Two very important links, Self Service Repair https://support.apple.com/self-service-repair and Parts https://selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home. So, this article will focus more on the later, when your warranty has expired. Remember, there are options, tried and true, Apple’s Self Service Repair options.

Apple Self Service Repair Options

First, keep in mind, there are always options. We’ve got warranty, approved services providers, and self repair options. Second hand as well, don’t forgot others have gone through similar experiences; a loss of a drive, broken/cracked screen and worse, failed motherboard.

Bare in mind there are options available, specific for the M1 build, or article title, M1 Self Service Repair, even when Apple Care+ warranty has expired. Learn to fix Apple tech yourself. Be sure to do your research, of course. Perhaps, you might want to start here… I’ll let Apple explain the ‘other repair options’ independent repair providers and self service repair. Avenues become limited as the warranty expires or those who can perform the fix on the go.

Next, let’s assume our options are limited for the M1 MBP… the Apple Self Service Repair (resource website) will help with your repair; this assumes you know what you’re doing. Parts can be purchased as well, … also, there is chat support available, where it makes sense. Do your due diligence. Can’t stress this enough, especially those who are just getting into electronics as a hobby, or starting those who can fix friends and family electronics.

Series Continues

Lastly, good luck with your own Self Service Repair, same for the Parts catalog. The build continues on the M1, check out the subsequent articles (5 in total) M1 Refurb, Visual Inspection and Teardown, M1 Touch bar, and Screen & Keys. Enjoy! Friendly reminder, It’s vital to use OEM parts IMO (in my opinion), if you can, second hand via Amazon or eBay. Moreover, the parts list is very helpful for those familiar with the process. If not, don’t be afraid to reach out if you’re in a pinch. Happy to help or help guide you to the right support method/service.

February 18, 2024January 15, 2025

Descale

Proper Maintenance And Care

Descale Modern Coffee Machines

Descale with Apple Cider Vinegar

White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works, preferably organic, will work ofr this task. A quick tip: use vinegar to descale coffee machines. The objective is to clean and descale the pipes and water reservoir of a modern coffee machine. For machines, including camp pots and classic coffee pots, vinegar will suffice. For manual types, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be helpful. If there are stubborn coffee stains that are difficult to remove, a little baking soda can provide extra scrubbing power.

Typical Coffee Machines Needing descaling

Below, we have two machines, a. Keurig brand Coffee Machine and b. Breville brand Nespresso machine. We hve used both coffee machines and continue to clean them as needed, regularly and thoroughly. Simple monthly cleanings will go a long way.

Keurig Type Machines

Water Reservoir

Interface

Pod Area

Press To Clean

Post Clean

To clean your Keurig (generic) machine, depending on the model you own, pour a mixture of vinegar and water into the reservoir. Choose a cup size and place the cup below the spout, then start the machine. Let the water and vinegar solution run through the machine until it’s all gone. For the next cycles, use only water in the reservoir. I usually run three full cycles: 1. Water with vinegar, 2. H2), and 3. More water. The aim is to ensure that all the vinegar is completely flushed out of the machine, including the small reservoir inside.

Remember, to run the machine as many times as necessary to clear out the vinegar. A small amount of apple cider vinegar shouldn’t cause any issues, assuming no allergies. We’re talking about trace amounts here. Just a disclaimer: I’m not a health professional, nor ram I representing apple cider vinegar or vinegar in any way that suggests health benefits. The vinegar is simply the cleaning agent, replacing store bought chemicals).

Nespresso Type Machines

Visual Inspection

Pod Area

Vinegar & Water

Press And Hold

Ready to Brew

Fresh Espresso

Same process for the Breville (generic) Nespresso machine, caveat, holding the two ‘size’ buttons on the top of the machine..This will turn on the machine and it will run until the water reservoir is empty. I’ve found it easier to just unplug the machine, once it has finished running. Not saying that his is the correct way, just the way I clean the machine.

Ok, moving on, rinse and repeat, the same cycle as mentioned above – 1. water with vinegar, 2. water, 3. water. Run 2 or 3 cycles and your machine should be good to go. If the descale indicator light is on, you may need to run a fourth or fifth cycle. It’s time to clean if the light has been triggered. The cleaning schedule is monthly, sometimes every two months depending on usage. If we use either machine less frequently, it’s important to run the vinegar solution more often to maintain tubes, bungs, diaphragms and fluid mechanical components.

Let’s leave it at that. Some machines will require a K-cup to remain in the machine in order for it to run. You can just use a ‘spent’ cup, no harm in that. I typically make a cup to drink while I clean the machines, so I have a fresh cup if needed. Obviously, this quick tip – descale – is not necessary if you have one of the new machines, a K-cup with a QR code. The level of frustration on the first series, required a K-cup with the stamp.

Side Bar – Coffee Pots, Camp Pots and Manual Brewers

A simple way to keep these vessels clean is by using water, vinegar and baking soda. The reaction between the vinegar and soda is quite fun. I remember making a volcano-like structure in elementary school using the same two chemicals. To clean, grab a sponge or paper rag, place the soda at the bottom, then add vinegar and water. You can pre scrub the soda around the inside of the camp pot for example. Pour in the water/vinegar mixture (hot water where applicable) and scrub the mixture until the soda powder is fully incorporated into the liquid. This process typically only takes a minute. Scrubbing until it’s incorporated acts like the silica grit inside toothpaste, which helps scrub the stained sides, tops, or handles.

If you have a camp coffee pot or percolator, follow similar cycles using vinegar and baking soda to remove the coffee stains, burnt coffee, coffee grind oil/debris and residue. Using vinegar as a quick tip – to descale your coffee pots and machines is key. The baking soda acts as a scrubbing booster while the vinegar’s acid breaks down those hard-to-clean coffee spots. The same method can be used on pots and pans, but I’ll save that for another post. Holiday time seems to be an appropriate time and place.

Like the quick fix format? Check out other quick fix content here such as this disposal problems fix. Like the learn to descale your coffee equipment – pots and machines, fix a toilet float, clean and fixpool filter housing and filter problem or try a cell phone charging hack… Check them out!

February 15, 2024September 21, 2024

Quick Fix – Pool

theQuick Fix – Pool

Solve Water Pressure (Spikes) – Clean Filter, Pump/Pump Filter etc.

Inspect the equipment

On an ongoing basis, it is important to keep the pool filter clean. Additionally, it is crucial to address any leaks and replace parts as needed throughout the lifespan of the pool. Monitoring the filter housing gauge can be helpful in the process. To begin this maintenance task, perform a visual and physical. inspection of the Pentair system, which includes the filter, pressure gauge, and blow-off valve. Be vigilant for any sudden spikes in pressure, as well as any obstacles that may impede proper water flow.

Filter Housing, Filter Change, New Gauge and Blower

Housing Crack

Filter Change

Clean Filter Insert

Inspect Filter Bottom

Filter Housing, Pump – Water Cycle Ecosystem

Along with the filter gauge, proper filter cleaning is necessary. Keeping the pool clean and free of debris is one thing, but keeping the debris and ‘gunk’ out of the system is another. Let’s focus on the main drain(s), pump filter, filter, filter housing and the return.

Chemicals aside, simple maintenance is key. Keeping the main drain clear, the pump filter and the filter cleaned and free of debris is important (simple, right?). Not too often, but when it does, focus on the filter housing gauge. Pressure can build when the filter is not allowing the recommended ‘flow’ back to the pool via the return. The blow off valve, assuming a generic housing, will help eliminate pressure when needing to power down the pump unit to clean the pump filter and clean, remove or replace the filter.

New Parts

Clean Filter Housing

Place Filter

Infilter Insert

New Filter Top

Filter Housing Issue

Let’s skip ahead to the filter housing issue in our quick fix – pool article. First, here is a generic video showing the process of turning off the pool, removing the filter housing top and gaining access to the filter. Unfortunately, the filter housing top deteriorated due to sun exposure, water, contaminants. Luckily, it didn’t turn into a lost top or a comical scenario where the filter top ends up in a neighbors yard.

After a brief conversation with the pool professionals, it became clear that this is a common point of failure. It can be temporarily patched with epoxy but this is not recommended for this application. In a pinch, do what you can to maintain it, but most of the time, it’s best to get a new top. We will also replace the gauges (these are not due for another day or two, as we have chosen to purchase replacements online).

Going Back to the filter and solving problems along the way will help you better maintain the equipment you have. This has been our approach to working on electronics and technology for our 20 years. Once you’ve learned a your lesson, you typically won’t be to keep notes on your pool filter and make sure to buy the correct filter for your system. Prices will vary as you all know.

Physical and Visual Inspection

Check the filter core, gauges, blow off valve, filter screen (if applicable), and filter. Something is clogging up our filter, possibly algaecide or leftover water coloring solution. It is washable, but for the sake of time, it’s best to replace the filter. This task is not brain surgery, but it must be done correctly. Inspect all parts, clean what you can, and replace the items that are beyond cleaning. Filters and parts deteriorate over time.

While you’re cleaning out the pool, filters and whatever else might be causing problems in and around the pool. Check out our series on pool robots, maintenance, care and more importantly, Maytronic Dolphin robot repairs! Don’t miss out on this series, whether you have a robot, looking to invest into one or have a bot out of order or a Dolphin Down in desperate need of assistance… More content on the way!

In summary, these quick fix – pool tips can be used to inspect all components of the pool pump. Conduct a visual inspection, clean the baskets, filter, filter core, filter housing bottom, and check the water. Balance the water with chemicals as needed, then deploy the pool robot to start the cleaning process.

Like the quick fix format? Check out other quick fix content here such as this disposal problems fix. Like the learn to descale your coffee equipment – pots and machines, fix a toilet float clean. Like this quick pool filter housing and filter fix, try a cell phone charging hack… Check them out!

February 14, 2024September 27, 2024

Dolphin Nautilus

Nautilus CC Plus (Wired)

Pool Robots by Maytronics

Dolphin Nautilus CC

The Dolphin Nautilus CC pool vacuum, made by Maytronics Dolphin, is designed to remove debris, brush, vacuum, and maintain pool clarity.

Everyday, the Dolphin Nautilus activates, moves around the pool, cleans, and maintains buoyancy upon completion. It comes with a price tag, so choose wisely! We received a recommendation from our pool guy, which was great advice – try the Dolphin Nautilus robot vacuum. The goal is to reduce water evaporation, maintain water and chemical balance, minimize chemical corrections and keep the system clean.

Drone Accessories

Nautilus Back

Nautilus Cleaning

Wall Climb

Clean Filters

Nautilus Cart

Now, lawn equipment can spread dirt, grass clipping, environmental debris, pet fur, and screens with holes. Various types of debris can become spoilers when found in the pool. I assume that most, if not all, of this debris is kicked up by mowers and blowers as they are the main vehicles for debris getting into the pool. For us, sand from the brick pad seems to wreak havoc on our pools ‘clarity’. So, the sand, bugs and debris from lawn equipment…

More Maytronics Product Information

The Nautilus is a great product that is not terribly expensive when compared to other devices in the same space. We chose this specific product because it lacks excessive technology. We simply wanted a low-maintenance clean that could operate in the water, clean effectively, run various cleaning cycles and be easily stored on a cart when not in use. The cart allows for easy storage or movement, especially for pool usage. It can simply move the robot away when swimmings are in or around the pool. This means swimmers can splash around, stir up the water and not worry about damaging the robot. The universal cart works wonders, although it may be pricey for some. It makes tasks like bending down, lifting, and storing the robot a breeze.

Cost, cleaning time. The machine is easy to clean. Power down the machine, pull up the robot, open two doors, pull out the filters, unlock the filters with four clicks, and start the wash. Cleaning and maintaining the screens is much easier when considering the cost and cleaning time of the entire pool compared to a quick rinse under the faucet to remove debris. Moving back to the robot, snap the filters into the housing, replace them on the machine, submerge the robot, and power it on…

Quickly, I wanted to share some other Maytronics Dolphin content, newer content since the original Nautilus article in reverse order, so the fix is first (up), issue second(down): Dolphin On and Dolphin Down.

Moving on, no app for us, once again we opted for the Dolphin Nautilus robot in its manual version (corded, non-wifi enabled) to keep costs down. It suits us well since our pool remains uncovered year-round; the robot makes its way around the pool once or twice a day, providing low-maintenance, no-frills pool cleaning. Personally, I would prefer to cover the pool at night to retain heat and reduce water evaporation. But for now, we’re happy with our choice. This recommendation came from our pool service, not a paid advertisement, so a big thank you to them!

February 10, 2024January 14, 2025

Dark Souls 3 Video

Game Play-through

@FightinCowboy Does Dark Souls 3 Video

Lab Work – Dark Souls 3 Video

Watch the Dark Souls 3 (DS3) video, this is an epic game in the SoulsBorne genre, see more…

Dark Souls is a redefining and continuation of the FromSoftware and Bandai teams. Got to love a good Dark Souls video game series, specifically for 3rd iteration… Dark Souls is another iteration of the famed (in my opinion) FromSoftware and Hidetaka Miyazaki.

I think it’s fair to say, FromSoftware has created some very good games such as the Dark Souls series. Including the Bloodborne series, Armored Core, Demon’s Souls and Sekiro games. There are more, but I wanted to mention the game titles and series I know of from a historical perspective.

Honestly, it’s a tall order to beat the developers and dev teams in terms of game design, difficulty, and epic adventures and so on. Dark Souls is it’s own “beast” of a game series and I hope the same direction and game play carries on through the Elden Ring series, *which seems to be the case with the recent release of Elden Ring DLC – Shadow of the ErdTree.

I should preface my comments as I am a viewer, so please take my comments with a grain of salt. I can only speak from a viewers perspective as I just can’t put together a good Elden Ring run to save my virtual backside. In terms of Buy or Pass, Dark Souls 3 is a “future buy” or wishlist item for me… I wouldn’t belabor the point.

Watch Dark Souls 3 and others like it on YouTube or check out our other videos found under the video category on our website.

January 10, 2024September 27, 2024

Alpha Numeric Domain Salad

Solve Issues Finding A Domain Name

Use The Soup, Domain Soup

ICANN Helps with Alpha Numeric Domain Salad

Finding the right domain name

These days, it’s getting tougher by the minute. All the 3, 4, 5, 6 and some 7- letter combination domains are all gone (purchased). Now, what do I do?

A new year, a new you (business you). Move past the Alpha Numeric Domain Salad (or soup) and keep it simple and short. Questions, arise: Is it time to create a new domain or find an alternative? What’s a domain broker? Whatever the reason, the strategy might be more difficult than you think. With loads of questions, it’s time for a domain buying strategy. More and more our domain strategy is put to the test. Rankings, rage clicks, drops and more… all play a role in our evolving domain buying strategy. Keep ICANN handy, ICANN – stands for Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers; on second thought, get to know ICANN and NameCheap.

Try The Soup; Domain Name Soup

Try, the Domain Name Soup app, i.e the soup… I call it. Sometimes, the ‘soup’ is what you need to find a unique name, combination or similar sounding name. Do so with Domain Name Soup. It might help you move past the alpha numeric domain salad.

These days, with AI and old web tools like Domain Name Soup, you might find the trick you need to cover a client’s business name or a service provided in an area of expertise – all not a problem just a few years ago. Let’s start with domain brokers. We’ve used them, and they are what they are ‘at a price’. Guess who wins in that transaction? Again, unless you’re trying to purchase an existing stable domain, coming out of pocket might be your best bet.

Try Alternative Top Level Domains

Tip: when trying to evaluate your next move, start by finding a registrar. Begin with a few words that you feel represent your brand or influence. Try different domain sub-categories, partial and combined alpha-numeric characters, country codes and more.

We tend to avoid .org’s, .co’s, and other similar options. This may be more of a personal preference, or perhaps a slight nod to nostalgia for early dot.com days. Above all, aim to find something you can truly own for at least a year. Jokes aside, all domains come with an annual expense, whether you like it or not. It’s not the 20s or early 2000s anymore; now it’s all about X (formerly Twitter) handles, IG accounts, TikTok, ChatGPT, and AI algorithms. Find a domain that resonates with you. Consider getting a D.B.A. if needed (consult a lawyer for advice), or simply choose a catchy domain that’s available.

Domains can be pricey and finding the right one isn’t easy, but just find something you can work with and give it a try! In addition to ICANN, which can assist with domain research, consider using domain brokers like NameCheap (a popular registrar) or any of the thousands of others in the market. They can help you find a domain at the best price, that makes the most sense for your needs. Be cautious, as some domain owners prefer to remain private and may not want to be contacted. Be patient and make best decision for your business of brand.

Other Means of Support

While were fixing things today, let’s share a few other helpful tips. Such as cleaning up URLs, GoDaddy Bounceback services, email deliverability, knowing when to clear the cache, and how to Flush DNS on a Mac/Apple. Additionally,ipconfig /flushdns for Windows, and sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches on Linux.

We’ll also cover how to maintain your digital footprint i.e. activity on the web and what to do when the interwebs are completely down; really down. Choose down detection. These tips are super handy when starting a new website from scratch because eventually, you will come across these issues in one way or another. It’s bound to happen.