Casio Illuminator AE1500WH: Easy-to-Read, Easy-to-Use Timekeeping for Everyday Life

 

I have not worn a wristwatch for a long time. I only started wearing one when I started to work full-time in the kitchen. Instead of using my phone, I chose a watch. In a busy kitchen, chefs often handle oils and greasy ingredients. Wearing a watch allows me to avoid touching my smartphone, preventing grease transfer. A watch for me is essential to keep track of cooking times, and food preparation schedules and helps me stay on schedule.

A chef's watch must be accurate, durable, and able to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen. When I buy my watch it must include water resistance, easy-to-read dials, rugged and durable with comfortable straps. For me, my brand of choice for a Chef's watch is Casio. They are accurate timepieces, rugged, durable, comfortable, and provide water resistance.

One of my favorite Casio watches to wear in the kitchen is my Casio Illuminator AE1500WH. The AE1500WH is a rugged quartz wristwatch from Casio and belongs to the Illuminator series.

The best feature of this watch is simplicity and readability. With its large, high-resolution display with bold, positive digits dominates the watch face.  Forget squinting at tiny numbers  -  this watch prioritizes clarity even in low-light conditions, thanks to an orange backlight with a user-friendly button for activation.

I also like this watch very much because of its simplicity, Casio did a really great job of avoiding complex menus here.  Four clearly labeled buttons provide intuitive control over all functions,  from timekeeping to stopwatch, alarm, and countdown timer.  Setting and using these features is a breeze, making this watch perfect for users of all backgrounds.

It is also isn't just about easy reading; it's built to last. The watch boasts  100-meter water resistance,  meaning it can handle splashes, rain, and even a swim. That is why I'm not worried a bit about wearing it at work in the kitchen. It handles water splashes, hot or cold,  grease, and grim like a champ. The  10-year battery life is another perk –  no need to worry about constant replacements. Plus, a daily alarm keeps you on schedule, whether it's for that morning jog or important orders.

The Verdict:

The Casio AE1500WH isn't trying to be fancy. It's a straightforward watch that excels at what it does best: providing clear and easy timekeeping.  With its large, readable display, intuitive controls, and user-friendly features,  the AE1500WH is a great option for everyday wear, work, or anyone who needs a no-nonsense timepiece.  The durability, long battery life, and affordable price tag make it an even more compelling choice.

You can buy the Casio AE1500WH on Amazon for only $21.92 at the time of this writing.

Ka Tato's Corner March 21, 2024

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Tech meets Fashion: The Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF Orange Watch

Happy New Year to everyone. For my first post this year, I'm writing about one of my favorite everyday watches, the reliable, multi-functional Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF in orange color.

Features and Specifications:

Case and Material:

• Case size (LWH): 48.2 × 45 × 13.8 mm
• Case, bezel and Band Material : Resin
• Weight : 40g
• Water resistance : 100-meter water resistance

Major Functions:

• Multi Time (4 different cities)
• World Time - 
• 31 time zones (48 cities + coordinated universal time), daylight saving on/off, Home city/World time city swapping
• 1/100th-second stopwatch,
• Stopwatch measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer Unit: 1/10 second
• Countdown timer range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 5 daily alarms or one-time alarms
• Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
• LED light Selectable illumination duration, afterglow Light color
• 12/24-hour format
• Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month
• Telememo
• Mem capacity: Up to 30 Sets of Data, with 8 character name and 16-digit tel no.
• Analog: 2 hands (hour, minute (hands move every 20 seconds))
• Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day

Power Supply

• Battery: CR2025
• Battery Life: Approx. 10 years

Dimensions

• Weight: 49 grams

Additional Features

• Classic analog-digital display

What I like about the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF.

• Most of the functionality written above.
• I Love the display with the world map on the left, and the Analog display on the right that looks like a Radar making this watch unique.
• Provides accurate timekeeping, has multiple time zones, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an LED backlight.
• 
  

What I don't like.

• The Countdown Timer doesn't have an auto-repeat
• Resin glass prone to scratches
• 
  
  
  
  

I've had this watch for over a year now, and like my other Casio watches, I have never had any issues with it.  This watch is a digital quartz watch that offers a lot of features for a low price. 

The Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF, affectionately nicknamed the "Royale Orange," is a watch that punches far above its weight class. Don't let the modest $20 price tag fool you; this resin-clad timepiece packs a surprising punch of features and personality.

It has a world map and time display, a stopwatch, a timer, and 5 alarms. The watch has an orange resin band and a black/silver two-tone case. The display is large and clear, with a mini-dial and a mini-map that shows the current time zone. The watch is easy to use and adjust, with four buttons and a light function. All of these features are surprisingly easy to navigate through the intuitive button setup, even for those of us who struggle with anything more complex than a microwave timer.

Casio didn't skimp on the durability department. The resin case feels surprisingly solid, and the 100-meter water resistance means you can take this bad boy from the boardroom to the beach without breaking a sweat (or a crystal). The battery life is also a beast, with Casio promising a decade of ticking before you need to crack it open.

The AE-1000W isn't perfect. The digital time display can be a bit small for some, the world time abbreviations can be cryptic at times, and the one that is important to me, is there is no Auto-Repeat feature on the countdown timer. But these are minor quibbles in the face of the watch's overall charm and value.

Overall, I highly recommend the Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF (Royale Orange), is a watch that delivers more than what you pay for. It is perfect for those with a global lifestyle or travel plans. It is a watch that you can wear for a long time without worrying about changing batteries or damaging it. If you are looking for a watch that has a lot of features, a cool design, and a low price, the Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF might be the one for you.

Ka Tato's Corner January 10, 2024

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HP Chromebook - 15-de0021cl: A Sleek and Reliable Laptop for Chrome OS Lovers

 

Today I'm writing about my HP Chromebook  Model:15-de0021cl. This Chromebook was released by HP  in the summer of 2019, around  four years ago. It is a laptop with 15.6-inc touch screen, an Intel Core i3, 4GB of RAM, and 128 GB of eMMC storage. 

Hardware Specification:

• Product number: 6MX43UA
• Product name : HP Chromebook - 15-de0021cl
• Microprocessor : Intel® Core™ i3-8130U (2.2 GHz base frequency, up to 4 GHz with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology, 4 MB cache, 2 cores)
• Chipset : Intel® Integrated SoC
• Memory, standard : 4 GB DDR4-2133 SDRAM (onboard)
• Video graphics : Intel® UHD Graphics 620, Integrated
• Hard drive : 128 GB eMMC
• Optical drive: Optical drive not included
• Display : 15.6" diagonal FHD IPS BrightView micro-edge WLED-backlit touch screen (1920 x 1080)
• Wireless connectivity : Intel® Wireless-AC 7265 802.11ac (2x2) Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® 4.2 Combo
• Expansion slots: 1 microSD media card reader
• External ports : 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C™ (5 Gb/s signaling rate, Power Delivery 3.0, HP Sleep and Charge); 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (HP Sleep and Charge)
• Minimum dimensions (W x D x H) : 35.8 x 24.6 x 1.79 cm
• Weight : 1.81 kg
• Power supply type : 45 W USB Type-C™ adapter
• Battery type : 3-cell, 60 Wh Li-ion
• Webcam : HP Wide Vision HD Camera with integrated dual array digital microphone
• Audio features : B&O, dual speakers
• Operating System :  Chrome OS

The  HP Chromebook  15-de0021cl is a budget friendly laptop, that offers excellent performance. It is powered by a Intel Core i3-8130U (2.2 GHz base frequency, up to 4 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, 4 MB cache, 2 cores), 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which is still a lot even in today's standard and a Full HD Display. 

What I Like:

• The build is nice. Feels sturdy and durable
• Full HD display
• Good Performance
• Long Battery Life
• Touchscreen Display
• 2 USB-C and
• Supports Power Delivery 3.o
• Supports Google Play
• Supports Built-in Linux Box
• Compatible with most USB-C Laptop Docking that Supports the PD protocol
• Micro SD Card Slot

What I don't like:

• I find it a little heavy

Overall, the HP Chromebook 15-de0021cl is a good choice for students, budget-minded users, or anyone who just needs a laptop on the go that can handle everyday tasks. It is a good value for the price and offers good performance for its specs.

I'm an Android Phone user, and having Google Play on my HP Chromebook allows me to install and use the same apps I have on my phone. I also have Linux Box enabled so I can install desktop apps like Mozilla Firefox, Brave, and Libre Office.  One upgrade I made was to get the HP Thunderbolt Dock 120W with HDMI Adapter, Universal USB-C Docking Station, this lets me use my HP Chromebook with Dual Monitors, an external keyboard, and a mouse, I can hook it up to my switch via RJ45 ethernet wired connection.

Recommendation:

After having two Chromebooks, the Thinkpad 13 Chromebook and this one the HP Chromebook 15-de0021cl, I think, for now, I wouldn't be getting any Chromebooks, not for a long time. Unless Google removes the update limitation, Google makes Chrome OS Flex available to End of Life Chromebooks. My Thinkpad 13 Chromebook stopped getting updates last July, and this Chromebook will stop getting updates in the summer of 2025. I feel that Google must still support older hardware, just like in Windows. At least with Windows-based computers, I can install a Linux distro on older computers seamlessly. Also, the prices of Chromebooks are getting expensive, and none of the hardware is upgradable (cannot add ram and replace ssds). So for now I won't be buying any Chromebooks

Ka Tato's Corner November 23, 2023

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Casio HDC-700-1AVCF Review: A Durable, Reliable, and Accurate Watch for Everyday Wear

Today, I'm writing about my Casio HDC-700-1AVCF. Like any other Casio in the market the HDC-700-1AVCF is a tough watch. It is made of a heavy-duty resin watch which makes it durable and very reliable and it also looks good. 

First the Features and Specifications:

Case and Bezel

• Material: Resin
• Case Size (LWH): 53.3 mm x 48.8 mm x 16.6 mm
• Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)

Band : Resin

Functions:

• World Time - 29 time zones (30 cities), Daylight saving on/off
• 1/100th-second stopwatch,
• Stopwatch measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer Unit: 1 second
• Countdown timer range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 3 daily alarms with 1 snooze alarm
• Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
• LED backlight with afterglow
• 12/24-hour format
• Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month
• Telememo
• Mem capacity: Up to 30 Sets of Data, with 8 character name and 16-digit tel no.
• Analog: 2 hands (hour, minute (hands move every 20 seconds))
• Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day

Power Supply

• Battery: CR2025
• Battery Life: Approx. 10 years

Dimensions

• Weight: 49 grams

Additional Features

• Classic analog-digital display

What I like about the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF.

• Most of the functionality written above.

What I don't like.

• The Countdown Timer doesn't have auto-repeat
• Only 3 Alarms instead of 5
• Resin glass prone to scratches
• Led backlight, is not so bright.

This watch is a great all-around, everyday watch. Like most Casio watches, it is durable, water-resistant, and has tons of useful features, including 10 years battery life, world time, multiple alarms, stop watch, countdown timer, and an Analog Digital display. Before I forget, the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF is available in 3 Colors, the Black Silver, Tan, and Black Green. 

Casio HDC-700-1ACF Black/Green

This watch looks great and feels good on my arms. It's durable, and provides reliable time, it can be worn everyday and never fails. With the 10 year battery I won't have to worry about charging or replacing the battery anytime soon and the best part of it is the affordable price.

If you are looking for an everyday work watch, look no further. The Casio HDC-700-1ACF is a very good choice.

At the time of this writing it is available at Amazon for only $31.92

Ka Tato's Corner November 17, 2023

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Lenovo ThinkPad 13 Chromebook Review - Celeron 3855U, 4GB RAM, 16GB eMMC

My Lenovo ThinkPad 13 Choromebook will be seven years old this coming December 2023, although it doesn't get updates from Google anymore, it's still as reliable as it was when I bought it back in 2016.

The Lenovo ThinkPad 13 Chromebook is a budget-friendly Chromebook that offers good performance and durable build quality. It is powered by a Celeron 3855U processor, 4GB of RAM, and 16GB of eMMC storage. This configuration is sufficient for most basic tasks, such as web browsing, checking email, video/movie streaming, and using online productivity apps.

The ThinkPad 13 Chromebook has a 13.3-inch HD display with a resolution of 1366x768 pixels. The display could be more sharp, but it is bright and clear enough for most tasks. The viewing angles are also good and in cases I need a second display, I connect my usb-3 AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim 1366x768 Res.

This Thinkpad Chromebook although old, came with two USB-C and supports the PD or  Power Delivery over USB. I'm able to use my  USB C Laptop Docking Station with Dual Monitor, which I bought from Amazon. with this tiny docking station, I'm able to have two additional monitors and additional USB-3 ports, RJ45, and two DisplayPort. You can read the short review that I wrote here.

This Chromebook has a comfortable keyboard like all Thinkpads with good key travel and feedback. The trackpad is also responsive and accurate.

This ThinkPad 13 Chromebook has a good battery life. It can easily last for 8-10 hours on a single charge. This makes it a good choice for students, mobile professionals, and anyone else who needs a laptop that they can use all day long.

Pros:

• Good performance for a budget Chromebook
• Durable build quality
• Long battery life
• Comfortable keyboard
• Responsive trackpad
• Supports Google Play and Android Apps
• Supports Linux on Chromebooks
• Two USB-C Ports
• Supports the PD or  Power Delivery over USB

Cons:

• Not ideal for demanding tasks
• The display is not particularly sharp
• Stop Getting Updates June 2023

This Thinkpad Chromebook 13 is durable, and has a good build quality like any ThinkPad, after more than six years, the battery still holds a good amount of charge at 8 hours. I still use it here and there, but because of limited storage capacity and lack of new and latest updates from Google, I only use it for occasional browsing and some YouTube streaming.

Ka Tato's Corner November 01, 2023

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Durability and Usability: The Casio WS-1300H-8AV Gray Color Review

Here is another Casio watch that I always use in my kitchen,  the Casio WS-1300H-8AV. I have the  Gray Color. Like most Casio watches, it is durable, provides accurate time, is water resistant, and the best feature that I love is the Auto-Repeat Countdown Timer which for me is very useful in the restaurant kitchen.

This watch  is a great all-around digital watch for the price. It is durable, water-resistant, and has a variety of useful features, including a tide graph, moon phase display, stopwatch, timer, alarm, dual time function, and full auto-calendar. The watch is well-built, light and feels good in the hand. The resin band is comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. The display is easy to read, even in low light conditions, thanks to the LED light.

Specification:

World time

• Dual time
• Moon data

Moon data (moon age of a specific date, moon phase graph)

• Tide graph
• Tide graph (tide level for specific date and time)

Stopwatch

• 1/100-second stopwatch
• Measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times

Timer

• Countdown timer
• Measuring unit: 1 second
• Countdown range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• Other: Auto-repeat

Alarm/hourly time signal

• Multi-function alarms
• 3 independent multi-function alarms (2 one-time alarms and 1 snooze/one-time alarm)
• Alarm type: Daily alarm, date alarm, 1-month alarm, monthly alarm
• Hourly time signal

Light

• LED light
• Selectable illumination duration (1.5 seconds or 3 seconds), afterglow
• Light color = LED:Amber

Calendar: Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)

Mute feature: Button operation tone on/off

Accuracy: Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month

Other features

• 12/24-hour format
• Regular timekeeping:
• Hour, minute, second, am/pm, month, date, day

For people who like fishing and other water sports, the tide graph and moon phase display are two of the most useful features of this watch. The tide graph can be used to plan activities around the tides, such as fishing, surfing, and swimming. The moon phase display can be used to track the lunar cycle, which can be helpful for fishermen and other people who are affected by the tides. I don't use this feature, so I cannot tell if it is accurate or not. I set it up based on the manual, and that's about it.

The features of the watch that are very useful for me in the kitchen is the water resistance, rugged built, countdown timer with auto repeat, and the alarms. 

The dual time function allows me to track two different time zones, which is handy even if I don't travel frequently. The full auto-calendar keeps track of the date and day of the week, so I never have to worry about forgetting what day it is.

Overall, the Casio WS-1300H-8AV is a great all-around digital watch for the price. It is durable, water-resistant, and has a variety of useful features. It is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone else who needs a reliable and feature-rich watch.

Pros:

• Durable
• Water-resistant (100 meters)
• Variety of useful features, including tide graph, moon phase display, stopwatch, timer, alarm, dual time function, and full auto-calendar
• Comfortable to wear
• Affordable

Cons:

Some owners have said that the resin band can be stiff at first, but it loosens up over time.

The display can be difficult to read in direct sunlight.

I would recommend the Casio WS-1300H-8AV to anyone looking for a durable and feature-rich digital watch at an affordable price. It is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone else who needs a reliable and versatile watch.

Ka Tato's Corner October 31, 2023

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Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 433715: The Perfect Docking Station for Your Aging ThinkPad

Working with my Thinkpad L520s 15-inch screen is fine when I'm out and about, but when I get to back to my home office, I want to use a dual monitor setup with two 24-inch HD displays. The  Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Sation with USB 3.0 - 90W, makes it easy. 

Let me tell you something about this Thinkpad Mini Dock Series 3. First of all this is not compatible with newer generations Thinkpad Laptops, this is for Thinkpads  L330, L412, L420, L430, L512, L520, L530, T400s, T410, T410s T410i, T420, T420s, T420Ssi, T430, T430s, T431s, T430si, T430u, T510, T510i, X220, X220t, X230, T520, T520i, and T530.

The Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Station with USB 3.0 - 90W 433715 is a compact and lightweight docking station that provides instant connectivity to a variety of peripherals, including Ethernet, multiple USB devices, audio and video equipment, and a security key lock slot. It is ideal for notebook users who need a simple and easy-to-use solution for connecting their laptop to a variety of peripherals at their desk.,

Features and Specifications:

• Dimensions: 55 mm (2.2 in) x 345 mm (14.0 in) x 198 mm (7.8 in)
• Weight: 0.9 kg (2.0 lb) - Does not include the 90W AC power adapter.
• Power Supply: 90W AC adapter
• Ports: 
• 1x VGA, 
  
  
  
• 1x DVI-D, 
• 1x DisplayPort, 
• 1x USB 3.0, 
• 5x USB 2.0, 
• Gigabit Ethernet, 
• Security Key, 
• Lock Cable Lock Slot
• Maximum Supported Monitors: 2 (depending on system's graphics capabilities)
• Compatible Devices: Select 65W and 90W Lenovo laptops, NOT recommended for laptops with 170W AC adapters, Also supports recent models, such as the following series: T420, T430, T510, T520 (dual core), and T530 (dual core)

This Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Station will improve productivity by allowing you to connect your Thinkpad Laptop to a variety of peripherals by simply resting your laptop on the dock. This will simplify your workspace and workflow.

With the Thinkpad Mini Dock you can easily move your laptop between different places without having to sisconnect and reconnect your peripherals.

Thinkpad L520 with 2 External Display.

If you are looking for a simple, easy-to-use, and secure way to connect your Lenovo ThinkPad laptop to a variety of peripherals, the Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Station with USB 3.0 - 90W 433715 is a great option.

By the way, there are two versions of this Mini Dock Series 3, the 433715, which is the one I reviewed here, and the other one is the 433710U. Mine or the Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Station with USB 3.0 - 90W 433715 has 1 USB 3 port the Lenovo Thinkpad Mini Dock Series 3 (433710U) doesn't have a USB 3 port.

You can still get both of this Thinkpad Docking stations from Amazon.

Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Station with USB 3.0 - 90W 433715 with USB 3

Lenovo Thinkpad Mini Dock Series 3 (433710U)

Ka Tato's Corner October 28, 2023

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Lenovo ThinkPad L520 Review: A Durable and Reliable Laptop

This isn't a new laptop, in fact, most people would consider this obsolete, but, this Lenovo Thinkpad L520, just works and doesn't want to retire anytime soon. I bought mine refurbished from Lenovo, back in late 2012, and it's been my workhorse up until last month. My L520 runs on an Intel Core i5-2540M 2.6GHz.

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 is a 15.6-inch business laptop that was released in 2011. It is a durable and reliable laptop that is well-suited for a variety of use cases, including business, education, and personal use.

Specifications:

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 is available with a variety of specifications, including:

•  Processor: Intel Core i3-2310M 2.1GHz, Intel Core i5-2410M 2.3GHz, Intel Core i5-2540M 2.6GHz, or Intel Core i7-2640M 2.8GHz
• Memory: 4GB or 8GB DDR3
• Storage: 320GB, 500GB, or 750GB 7200RPM HDD, or 128GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch 1366x768 LED or 1600x900 LED
• Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 3000
• Operating System: Windows 7 Professional or Windows 8 Pro

Design and Build Quality

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 has a classic ThinkPad design, with a black chassis and a red TrackPoint pointing stick. It is a well-built laptop that is made from durable materials. The lid and keyboard deck are both made of plastic, but they feel sturdy and well-made. The hinges are also very sturdy and can hold the lid in place at any angle.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 has a spill-resistant keyboard with large, well-spaced keys. The keys have a good amount of travel and feedback, making them comfortable to type on for long periods. The keyboard also has a dedicated number pad, a nice feature for business users.

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 also has a large touchpad that is responsive and accurate. The touchpad has two dedicated buttons that are easy to click. The laptop also has a TrackPoint pointing stick, which is a signature feature of ThinkPad laptops. The TrackPoint pointing stick is a good alternative to the touchpad, especially if you are using the laptop on a desk or other flat surface.

Display

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 has a 15.6-inch LED display with a resolution of 1366x768 or 1600x900. The display is not the brightest or most colorful display on the market, but it is good enough for most tasks, such as browsing the web, checking email, and working on documents. The display also has a matte finish, which helps to reduce glare.

Performance

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 is powered by a variety of Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. These processors are powerful enough to handle most tasks, including multitasking, running office applications, and browsing the web. The laptop also has Intel HD Graphics 3000 graphics, which are good enough for basic graphics tasks, such as watching videos and playing casual games.

Battery Life

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 has a 6-cell battery that can provide up to 6 hours of battery life on a single charge. This is good battery life for a 15.6-inch laptop.

Conclusion

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 is a durable and reliable laptop that is well-suited for various use cases, including business, education, and personal use. It has a good keyboard, a large touchpad, and a long-lasting battery. The laptop also has various performance and storage options, so you can choose the right configuration for you.

Pros

• Durable and reliable build quality
• Good keyboard and touchpad
• Long-lasting battery
• Variety of performance and storage options
• Compatible with  Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Sation with USB 3.0 - 90W - 433715

Cons

• The display is not the brightest or most colorful
• Graphics performance is not suitable for demanding games or video editing

My Setup

I have made some upgrades to my L520:

1.  Docking Station, I got the Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Series 3 Docking Sation with USB 3.0 - 90W - 433715 this expanded my ports like the USB Ports, Ethernet port, it gave me VGA, DVI and Display Port for external monitors, also the docking station allowed me to use my L520 with Dual Monitors while the Lid is close.
2. Max out ram to 16gb,
3. Upgrade Hard Drive to a 1TB SSD
4. Remove DVD drive and replace it with a Hard Drive caddy, and installed a 2tb SSD,now I have 2 internal SSD
5. From Windows 7 pro, I upgraded to Windows 10 pro, when the beta version of Windows 11 pro was released, it automatically downloaded it and upgraded my Windows 10 to 11. So  now even though my hardware isn't supported, my L520 is running Windows 11 and keeps getting regular update.

Overall

The Lenovo ThinkPad L520 was an excellent companion it is a durable and reliable laptop. It is a good choice for business users, students, and anyone else who needs a laptop that can handle everyday tasks.

Ka Tato's Corner October 26, 2023

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Why You Should Consider the Casio AEQ110W-2AV Heavy Duty Quartz Watch as Your Next Accessory

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch, Model: AEQ110W-2AV is a rugged watch that combines functionality and style. This review will focus into the features and benefits of this very affordable and reliable wrist watch.

Pros:

• 100 Meters Water Resistance
• Analog and Digital Quartz
• Durable Build, can take a beating
• Can withstand daily kitchen work
• Illuminated Marker
• World Time
• 3 Daily Alarms
• Stop Watch
• Countdown Timers
• 10 year battery life
• Very Affordable

Cons:

• No light
• Illumination does not last long
• Countdown Timer Does not have Auto Repeat Feature

When I buy a watch, I intend to use it while working in a commercial kitchen, and the water resistance, countdown timer and build quality features of this watch makes it perfect for the job.

This Casio features a resin case and bezel, giving it a sturdy and durable build. The band is also made of resin, ensuring comfort and longevity. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling and day to day work in a restaurant kitchen.

The watch face is big enough for the analog hands, but the digital display is too small for my aging eyes. This watch however doesn't have a LED backlight which makes it hard to read in darkness. The illumination on the analog hands and markers doesn't stay long.

One of the standout features of this watch is its 10-year battery life. This means you won’t have to worry about changing batteries for a decade.

The watch also boasts a 30-city world time feature, making it great for overseas travel. It has 3 daily alarms and dual countdown timers, adding to its functionality.

The watch also includes a stopwatch with a measuring capacity of 23:59’59.99’'. The measuring modes include elapsed time, split time, and 1st-2nd place times.

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch is priced at $19.59 on Amazon, making it an affordable option for those looking for a reliable and functional watch.

Conclusion

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch, Color: Blue Model: AEQ110W-2AV is a robust and accurate timepiece. Its long battery life, water resistance, world time feature, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable watch. Whether you’re traveling the world or simply need a dependable everyday watch, this Casio model won’t let you down. However if you need a watch that you can use in the dark, this may not be the watch for you.

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch, Color: Blue Model: AEQ110W-2AV is available at Amazon.com

Ka Tato's Corner October 20, 2023

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A Closer Look at the Casio MRW200H-2B2V

The Casio MRW200H-2B2V is a real classic, perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and functionality in their timepieces. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some high-end watches, but it shines in its own right. 

Pros:

• 100 Meters Water Resistance
• 3 hand analog, with day/date
• Rotating bezel (Bi-directional)
• Timer Bezel
• Accurate Quartz movement

Cons:

• Only 3 years  battery life
• Bi-directional Rotating Bezel

When I buy a watch I intend on using it while working in a commercial kitchen, and the water resistance feature of this watch makes it perfect for the job.

I have had this since January of 2022 and have not had any problem with it. This watch rocks a classic analog look with a dark blue face and white time markers. It's a straightforward design that works well with just about any outfit, whether you're in the kitchen or out exploring your tech hobbies.

As someone who works daily in the kitchen, you know things can get messy and most of all greasy. The MRW200H-2B2V is ready for the challenge.

The quartz movement in this Casio ensures you're always on point. Plus, the bold hour and minute hands make reading the time a breeze, even when you're in a rush.

The watch is lightweight and comfortable to wear, which is a must when you're on your feet all day or out and about pursuing your tech interests.

Now, here's the best part of this watch. This Casio analog divers watch won't break the bank. It's incredibly affordable for $20 or less, leaving room in your budget for another casio or maybe even a  new gear.

So, if you're someone who likes analog  or divers type timepieces that blend well with your simplistic culinary and tech-centric lifestyle, the Casio Men's MRW200H-2B2V is a fantastic choice. It's a simple, reliable, and won't empty your wallet. Happy timekeeping, and keep rocking your unique blend of interests!

Ka Tato's Corner October 15, 2023

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Never Let Tough Kitchen Conditions Stop You: Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch

The “Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch” is a reliable and durable timepiece that is perfect for people who lead an active lifestyle. Release around 2001, this watch has been the  basis  of newer G-Shocks and its successor, the GW2310-1. This watch is designed to withstand tough conditions and is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming. 

The watch is powered by solar energy so you don't have to worry about battery replacement. It also has a 48-city World Time feature, which makes it easy to keep track of time across different time zones.

The watch is designed to be shock-resistant and water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it perfect for people who work in harsh environments or lead an active lifestyle. It also has a full auto EL backlight, which makes it easy to read the time in low-light conditions.

If you’re a chef who works in a busy kitchen, timing is everything. The timer feature is  my most use functionality of this G-Shock. It's just too bad the timer on this model doesn't have  auto-repeat feature.  Newer Casio's mosThe “Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch” ensures that you never miss a beat with its accurate timekeeping and durable design, this watch is built to last and keep up with your daily schedule.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable, dependable and durable timepiece that can withstand tough conditions, the “Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch” is the perfect choice for you. My G2310 was a gift from my sister back in 2009 and its  still as reliable and dependable as ever. It's like brand new.

You can still buy the Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch from Amazon

Ka Tato's Corner October 14, 2023

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Victoper Bike Light, High Lumens Super Bright Bicycle Light

Introducing, the Victoper Bike Light featuring High Lumens Super Bright Bicycle Light. It has also features 6+4 Modes, Rechargeable through USB-C both Head Light & Tail Light Set, Waterproof.  

Specification:

• Battery Operated
• USB-C Rechargeable
• Water resistant 
• Lightweight at only 4 oz
• Includes Handlebar Mount
• 1500 Lumen

Pros:

• Small size.
• Great Frontlight and Taillight combo.
• USB-C Charging for bought.
• IPX4 Water resistance is a plus.
• Low Battery Reminder.
• Frontlight has 6 Modes to choose from.
• Taillight has 4 Modes.
• Very bright when on the highest mode.
• Taillight very visible from afar.
• Very easy to install.

Cons:

• Battery only  last for 1.5 hours on full bright mode instead of 5 hours indicated.

I call this Victoper Bike Light a Big Light in a small package. It's really small and light, but gives me a powerful bright light when I need to. In the box comes the frontlight and the taillight, Both are charge using a USB-C port, which is by far the standard way of charging nowadays. I can charge it using my phone charger, laptop charger and I can also charge it from my laptop. The case of the flashlight is made from aluminum alloy, and is sealed providing an IPX4 water resistance. I've use it under a little rain, but not under hard soaking rain. I don't think it will hold up to that situation. It will need an IPX 6 rating for that. IPX 4 only provides water resistance to splashes.

According to TrustedReviews.Com :

An IPX4 water resistance rating means the device can face only light water splashes. It cannot be submerged. This means that IPX4 water resistance devices are not waterproof and should be removed before you start swimming.

IPX4 water resistance devices can be used on rainy days or while washing hands. You can also wear these watches in the shower or while washing dishes but you should be careful that water does not enter the device.

The frontlight is consists of two led lights and has six modes, the first mode is Left Strong Light, second mode is Left Weak Light, Right Strong Light, All On Bright, Full Bright Breathing Light, Full Bright Strobe.  According to it's specification, at Full Bright, a full charge will last 5 hours. However based on my nightly usage a full charge at full bright, only lasts for about 1.5 hours if I use it continuously on my Specialized Allez road bike. I ride my road bike 3 time a week at night after work. If I use it at fullbright it wont last long, so I use it on the first mode left only and just switch to full bright when I need to.

The Taillight is colored Red blinker with 4 modes, Strong steady light, slow flashing, strobe, and rapid flash. It easily installs on the sit poles securely using the thick rubber.

Recommendation:

The Victoper Bike Light, is a good value, providing many features at a small packages, it easily installs and can be detach quickly from the thick rubber clamp. The lowest setting of is bright enough in most situation, especially if you're riding your bike at night in well lit areas. I just wish that the battery for the frontlight will last longer than 1.5 hours on full bright. 

Get the Victoper Bike Light, High Lumens Super Bright Bicycle Light on Amazon

Ka Tato's Corner October 06, 2023

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USB C Laptop Docking Station with Dual Monitor

 This is the GISSMO USB C Laptop Docking Station with Dual Monitor. It quite small for  a docking station with this many features, 13 in 1 Triple Display, USB C Hub Multiple Adapter with 2 HDMI, VGA, RJ45, 10Gbps USB C/A 3.1, 100W PD, USB 3.0/2.0, SD/TF, for Dell/Surface/HP/Lenovo Laptops.

Specification:

• PD (100W) - Power Delivery over usb
• 10Gps USB-C 3.1 Gen 2
• 2 USB-A 2.0
• 2 USB-A 3.0
• 1 USB-A 3.1 Gen 2
• 2 HDMI 4K30hz
• SD/TF -104Mbps

Pros:

• Small and light perfect for travel
• Easy to carry, No power cord neeeded.
• Uses my computers USB-c Power Delivery

Cons:

• If laptop/computers does not support the PD Protocol, all HDMI and VGA port won't work. It will only serve as a USB hub.

This is a great mini docking station, plenty of ports to extend you needs.  I wasn't planning on buying this, but it was on sale for only $18 on Amazon, it was a really good deal compare to $69. I read some of the negative reviews before I bought this. I think most of the problem stem from their laptop not having a PD or Power Delivery over USB. This mini docking station connects to a laptop via USB-C, if the laptops usb-c does not support the PD protocol, external monitors would not work. In my case, I tried this on my HP Chromebook 15 which support USB-C power delivery, and it work flawlessly, I also use it on my older Thinkpad Chromebook 13 that also supports USB-C power delivery and it worked. It also works with my Thinkpad T490 that also has the Type C PD Charging Port for power delivery and thunderbolt 3 /4 / USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 / USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 to support multiple-display and it didn't have any problem. However it did not work on my son's ASuS laptop, ASUS VivoBook 14 Model # F1400EA-SB34. To be specific if the USB-C of  your laptop does not support the PD Protocol, external monitors won't work. This mini docking station will just serve as usb hub and card reader.

Recommendation:

I like this  GISSMO USB C Laptop Docking Station for it's size, lots of ports and functionality. If you have a compatible device this will serve as a great mini docking station for a home office setup with multiple monitors. I don't use this in my home office because I already have a dedicated Lenovo ThinkPad Ultra Docking Station for my thinkpad T490 and I also have the hp usb-c power dock for my HP Chromebook 15. I use this mainly on the go and I keep it in my bag. 

If you are in the market for a USB c mini docking station, I can highly recommend this, just make sure your device meets the requirement, read the entire description and make sure your device is supported.

Get the GISSMO USB C Laptop Docking Station with Dual Monitor here on Amazon.

Ka Tato's Corner October 04, 2023

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OPINAY Wireless Bluetooth Headset

This is the Wireless Bluetooth Headset from OPINAY. It is Ultralight and features Bluetooth  V5.1, CVC8.0, HD Hands-Free Earphones with Built-in Mic.Other features includes, 60Hrs Playtime with 500mAh Charging Case for Business/Office/Driving/Workout.

Specification:

• Bluetooth V5.1  + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)
• CVC 8.0 + HD (Clear Voice Capture)
• Can connect to two bluetooth devices at the same time
• 8-10hrs Talk Time
• 1.5 hours charging time
• Light weight
• Waterproof IPX8
• One-click call, answer, end and redial the last number
• Sweat-proof / rain-proof 
• Compatible with any phone with Bluetooth function and suitable for IOS, Android, Windows and almost all other systems.

Pros:

• Straight forward, very easy and simple to use.
• One buton to answer, end and redial last number.
• Up and Down volume easily accesible.
• USB C Charging case is a nice addition.
• Not too big and not too small, just the right size for me.
• Stays on my ear and never falls off.
• Easy to hold, not slippery.

Cons:

• Hurts my ear if I wear it for an hour or more.

I have not use a single ear bluetooth headset since I bought the Apple Airpods Gen 3. I thought I will like the Airpods and I was hoping that I can use it like all my previous single ear bluetooth headsets. So for almost a year I tried to make the Airpods fit my my needs, but it didn't work. I really like the airpods, It sounds really nice, I can use it on my phone, firet TV Stick, google chromecast without any problem. What I don;'t like about it is, it's so small and slippery. I work as a full time chef and the Airpods just doesn't fit in my current workflow. 

This OPINAY Wireless Bluetooth Headset, on the other hand, works great for my needs, I can easily answer and end call with the press of a single button, it sounds good, and my voice sound nice clear to the other party I'm talking to, because of the CVC 8.0 feature I assumed. This bluetooth headset is also perfect for driving. 

Recommendation:

If you are looking for a simple, easy to use single ear bluetooth headset, I can highly recommend the OPINAY Wireless Bluetooth Headset from Amazon. It works great, not too big, not too small, and beest of all, it's cheap and it won't break your bank.

Ka Tato's Corner October 02, 2023

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