Every Day Carry – Page 5

Long Term Report – Blackberry 9930

Last month I posted my initial review of the Blackberry Bold 9930 and, at the end of the review, I promised a follow-up post once I had some mileage on the unit. Well, after one month I think I have a pretty good handle on the pros and cons of Blackberry’s latest release.

Research in Motion (RIM) continues to slip in the industry and that’s a shame because, in my opinion, they do make quality products and they work well, especially in the enterprise market. The Blackberry Enterprise Server (BES) gives administrators the utmost control of their mobile fleet although I venture to guess very few take advantage of the power BES can offer.

I’m not an Apple/Droid/WinMo hater. I think they all make solid products and their phones are selling like crazy so, if anything, their marketing dollars are being well spent. Just like automobiles, we all have our preferences and needs. I welcome the competition as it keeps the smart phone market fresh with new innovations released monthly.

The following are my impressions after a month with the Blackberry Bold 9930.

Spoiler alert… I still love the phone but it’s not perfect.

The touch screen is responsive and works very well but I don’t find myself using it all that often. Maybe it’s the fingerprints on the screen or the fact I can do everything I need to do with the keyboard or the touch pad. I have had an issue with my favorite shopping app, Our Groceries, randomly adding, deleting list items if I don’t lock the unit before placing it in my pocket. I’m chalking this up to an application that has not been updated to version 7 of the Blackberry operating system.

When I need to reboot the phone, which is not very often, it boots quickly (less than a minute). This is a HUGE difference from past units that could take 3-4 minutes to restart.

The battery life is acceptable and it gets me through an 8-10 hour work day. It’s typically down to about 30% when I go to bed. This is similar to what I was getting with my past two Blackberry phones (8530 & 8330) and the Windows Mobile phone before that. I don’t know to many people who can get more than a day out of their smart phone these days unless they are just not using it.

They keyboard continues to shine for long emails or note taking sessions. My only gripe, and it’s a small one, is that it’s a little “poppy” sounding. I’m thinking it’s the membrane under the keys. I’m curious to see if it gets quieter with age (or I just get used to it).

As far as build quality the Blackberry Bold 9930 is solid. Everything fits nicely and the seams are tight. I had a raised piece of trim near the keyboard out of the box but it’s stayed in place once I pressed it down a few times. The touch screen and “glass” fiber back are fingerprint magnets but without a screen protector of any kind I can’t find a single scratch on the unit. I was hoping the front screen would use the “Gorilla Glass” that’s showing up on more and more smart phones units but whatever RIM is using seems to work.

Overall I’ll have to say I’m really happy with the Blackberry Bold 9930. It’s has some really nice features, solid build quality, and a powerful processor that keeps up with everything I ask it to do.

One nice thing about my job is I don’t have to pay Verizon $250 to own one (which I might if I had to)!

Hands On – Blackberry Bold 9930

Having practically grown up with technology (my first computer was an Apple IIc in the mid-80’s) I always get excited when I hear about new or updated products. The mobile phone market, especially the “smart” phone, has exploded over the past few years and manufacturers are pumping out new makes and models at an astounding pace.

Once at the top of the mountain Research in Motion (RIM) has had it’s share of setbacks mainly from the folks at Apple who have found a way to brainwash people into thinking the iPhone is the only phone to have. I don’t want to turn this into a manufacturer bashing as I feel the company’s at the top of the pile are there on their own merits. I just feel like a physical keyboard makes the Blackberry feel more like a tool than a toy… I do, however, love my iPod Touch and use it for all things media (and gaming).

Where was I?… Oh yeah, Blackberry! After a long, and painful to watch, slide out global dominance the brainiac at RIM have a new line of phones rolling out to phone vendors all over the USA. Will these new models help prop up the best thing to come out of the Great White North since Bob and Doug McKenzie and the Kids in the Hall? Let’s find out…

First of all, I have to say the expanded keyboard of the 9930 is unreal. It’s slightly wider than past 9000 series phones and a better fit for my hands than the Bold 9650 that I just retired. Key travel & tactile feedback are exactly as they should be (present but not over done) & I see myself typing longer emails and blog posts with it.

This is the first Blackberry with a full time QWERTY keyboard and a touch screen (if you don’t count the Torch “slider” model). Having used something similar in a last life (i.e. Palm Treo 700x) the idea of keyboard and touch screen is not new. What is new is having the ability to use a track pad, and multi-touch screen that negates the need for a stylus (remember those?).

The Blackberry Bold 9930 is also the thinnest and lightest unit ever made by RIM. The metal wrapped sides is slightly reminiscent of the latest generation iPhone. RIM choose to locate the antenna on the bottom edge of the unit to avoid the dreaded death grip that had been an issue with past smartphone models.

Rounding out all of this Fan Boy praise I need to mention the lightning quick processor speed, OS7, built in compass and the HD video recording capabilities.

So, is there anything wrong with the 9930? In a word, yes. It’s nothing earth shattering and most of it will probably be fixed over time but this phone is not perfect.

One of my first complaints is the reduction of convenience keys to a single button placed awkwardly on the lower right side. These keys on past units could be programmed for many functions including application launch and voice commands. Third party tools extended this capability to allow for multiple functions dictated by the number of sequential presses. One press for the camera, two presses for the calendar, etc.

The 5MP camera has whats called “Extended Depth of Field” and is fixed focus. It’s not a show stopper but your pictures will definitely look a lot different with everything in front and back of the subject in focus.

The 9930 is the first Blackberry to incorporate Near Field communications (NFC). It’s a newer technology that has a lot of potential for simplified transactions, data exchange, and connections with a touch of the phone to a special device or tag. This is all great but Verizon has chosen to DISABLE this feature. This reminds me of the days where they would disable Bluetooth on phones. The good news is the NFC hardware is there and leaked OS upgrades appear to enable the feature so all is not lost. The adoption of NFC is also still in its infancy so I’m not missing much.

Lastly, there are the non-working apps. OS7 requires some modifications on the part of the developers and as of today about 15% of my installed applications are not functioning properly. I’m hoping this is a short-term problem & anxiously await to get Pandora working again! (ha ha).

Specs and pricing for the Blackberry Bold 9930 can be found here. It’s also available on other carriers under the Bold 9900 model number (same phone, different carrier radio type).

I’ll plan on posting a follow-up in a few months after I get some 9930 time under by belt. If it’s anything like the first 48-hours I think I’ll be back here singing it’s praises.

Blogs I’m Following (Part 3) – Misc.

This is the third and final installment of my favorite Blogs and RSS reeds on the Internet. This is a small sample of the other sites I follow. Everything from comedy to crackpots to cigars. I hope you find something new in the list.

FAIL Blog – If you like seeing people paying the price for stupid actions this is the site for you. There’s usually some pretty good signage mistakes too.

The Oatmeal – I’m really not into modern-day cartoons and comics (Dilbert is lost on me & The Far Side no longer exists) but this guy hits my funny bone just about every time. Fair warning, these are usually not kid friendly or safe for work.

David Allen Company – In my opinion Getting Things Done (GTD) is the best life management system ever created. I started with the book, attended the seminar, and intently read every newsletter from the David Allen Company. This guy is a former hippie (for lack of a better term) turned entrepreneur and productivity demigod. If you are looking for an alternative to all of the other systems, give this one a try. It’s been truly life changing for me.

The Art of Manliness – From shaving to shoe shining to being a better man, this site has it all. Sometimes it’s a little “old fashioned” but the articles are well written and have a lot of good content. This concept would make a great magazine.

ThinkGeek : What’s New – The premier geeky toy store in the internet. It’s also one of the best sources for everything caffeine (and bacon) related. Where else can you buy Caffeinated Marshmallows?

Cool Tools – Not as active as it once was but you can still learn about such things as the Bombproof laptop case and Dependable soldering irons.

No Agenda – This podcast stars former MTV VJ Adam Curry & and tech columnist John C. Dvorak. It covers mainstream and not so mainstream media. Always good for a laugh and exposure to a new conspiracy theory.

Daily dose of imagery – As a photo hobbyist I always enjoy seeing other peoples work. More often than not I get inspiration from these images.

Every Day Carry – I always called it “Being Prepared” but there’s a cult following to the Boy Scout motto. This site posts user submitted images of their EDC items. From watches to knives to guns, it’s all there. I’ve found a few neat tools on this site that I’ve added to my daily carry.

Cigar Aficionado – The website is a treasure trove of information to the cigar enthusiast. Just about all of their back issue articles are online and the review database is a great resource.

So there you go, some of the more non-traditional items that pique my interest. If you have read all three posts you can probably put together a more accurate picture if me and my lifestyle. There’s a few things you probably don’t know about too. Stick around and check the blog for future posts.

Part 1 & Part 2 of this series.

The Leatherman Micra – Multi-Tool

I’ve been carrying a Leatherman Micra in my pocket for the last 8-10 years. It’s one of those items I can’t leave the house without. Each of the 10 tools on the Micra has a specific use and rarely do I need to dig out the full sized Leatherman from the gear bar. The scissors are surprisingly strong and have a very smooth accurate cut. At least with me they get the biggest workout.

Tools:
1.5 inch Clip Point Knife
Extra-small Screwdriver
Medium Screwdriver
Flat Phillips Head Screwdriver
Spring-action Scissors
Nail File/Cleaner
Bottle Opener
Ruler
Tweezers

Size:
2.5 inches long when closed
1.6 inches blade length

Weight:
1.75 ounces

List Price:
$20

If you are looking for a small, well made multi-tool you really can’t go wrong with the Leatherman Micra.

• 420HC Clip Point Knife.
• Extra-small Screwdriver.
• Medium Screwdriver.
• Flat Phillips Head Screwdriver.
• Spring-action Scissors.
• Nail File/Cleaner.
• Bottle Opener.
• Ruler.
• Tweezers.
Measurements:
• 2.5 inches long when closed.
• 1.6 inches blade length.

My Review of Commute 2.0 Messenger

Originally submitted at Timbuk2

An updated Commute that's TSA-compliant.

Commute 2.0 Messenger

Even better than V1.0!

By Andrew from Indianapolis, IN on 4/3/2010

Pros: Attractive, High Quality, Good Organization, Good Strap Length, Enough Compartments, Great Color, Easy Access

Best Uses: Everyday

Describe Yourself: Career, Modern

As an IT Architect I carry my office with me. I need a bag that holds the gear, allows easy access and has the durability to handle whatever I put it through (construction site to board room). The Timbuk2 line of bags have always out performed the competition and have proven their value time and time again.

(legalese)

The Perfect Dopp Kit

As a frequent traveler I’m constantly trying to pack The Perfect Dopp Kit. Having all of your necessary supplies at hand when away from home can make traveling a little easier. The Art of Manliness (one of my favorite sites) has a good introductory article on packing a proper Dopp Kit.

You can’t take everything with you when you travel and having a defined container helps keep things in check. Items I always keep in my kit (besides the basic hygiene elements):

Aspirin (for AM)
Tylenol (for PM)
Spare Contact Lenses
Dental Floss
Antacids
Small Sewing Kit
Safety Pin

I don’t carry soap or shampoo as these are ALWAYS available at the hotel and take up precious space in the kit.

What are some of your “never leave home without it” items? Post your comments by clicking on the link below.

Seventeen Dollars For A Notebook? Well Worth It, Say Fans

Forbes.com had an article about one of my favorite daily carry items, the Moleskine notebook. while expensive when compared to spiral bound notebooks, the craftsmanship is first rate & you will want to write in it all the time!

I’m glad to see people still taking the time to enjoy the finer things in life.

If you’re going to be traveling soon the City books are a really good accessory to have with you. You can document your journey and create a real keepsake for future trips.

The Leatherman Super Tool – Multi-Tool

I’m a guy & guys like to fix stuff. I’ve had a Leatherman Super Tool for as long as I can remember. It’s the original version with the tools on the outside when you use the pliers (ouch!). You can use this tool for just about any task around the house and it’s built like a tank.

The Super Tool has the following features:

Needle nose pliers
Hard wire cutters
Regular knife
Serrated knife
Wood/bone saws
Small screwdriver
Medium screwdriver
Large screwdriver
Philips screwdriver
Electrical crimper
Awl/punch
Wire stripper
Ruler – inch/metric

The Leatherman Super Tool is another one of my Daily Carry items that help me get things done at work ad at home. The newer models have fixed the problem of the tools digging into your hand when you use the pliers. They fixed this by moving the tools to the other side of the handle. This also has the added benefit of not having to open the tool to get to the various blades.

If my original model ever gets lost/damaged I’m definitely going to invest in the new model. Until then I’ll keep using what I have. If you’re looking for a tool you can use around the house for a variety of tasks, do yourself a favor & check out the Leatherman line of products.

The Surefire 6Z – Flashlight

Time for another “Daily Carry” post!

I’m pretty mobile & like to carry as many of the tools I might need as I can (Lift my Timbuk2 messenger bag & you’ll find out!).

A flashlight is one of those tools that you don’t really think about until you need it. I use my Surefire 6Z several times a week. It’s small enough to carry in your pocket yet it puts out an incredibly bright 65 lumins. That’s brighter than a 4-D flashlight!

I purchased my The 6Z several years ago and after years of abuse it still works like a charm! Unfortunately the 6Z has been discontinued but it’s been replaced by the (very similar) Z2. It’s machined out of aircraft grade aluminum and weighs 4.5 oz.

The 6Z is considered a tactical flashlight because it is designed to be used as not only a source of illumination but as a weapon to disrupt the vision of a would-be attacker. It’s also designed to be used with a firearm (held with your secondary grip hand and lined up with the barrel). The 6Z has a large rubber button on the tail cap that’s used to turn it on/off (you have to hold the button to keep the light on). You can also screw down the tail cap to keep the light on.

I recently purchased the Surefire LED conversion kit that boosts the light output to 80 lumins and increases the battery life from 1.5 hours to 10+. Not only is this going to save on the cost of batteries its also keeps the flashlight from getting hot during extended use.

With both lamps you get a really tight (non-adjustable) beam of light. The LED lamp produces a super bright white (slightly bluish) light that can travel a great distance. It’s great for inspecting plenum spaces at jobsites and for scaring off racoons in the backyard.

If you’re in the market fo a well built, reliable, and super bright flashlight check out the Surefire line of lights.