Gadget Backlog

Gear – More Gear On The Chopping Block

What’s that in the box, ((shake)) ((shake)) what might that be? A new shipment, what is in ‘the box’ and on the bench.

Let’s first share this, BobsCNC is in the works, as space is somewhat limited at the moment. More on that soon. Batteries, I’ve got a few Optima Red Tops ready to go, a little outback welding where applicable. Fitting when discussing magnetic ‘tools’ and switches… yes, a super strong magnet that can be switched on and off with swift turn of the hand or lightswitch type mechanism. Very cool item to have around the house, shop, offroad etc. I’m curious to know (sans cost perhaps) if the welding community has a preference on ‘welding square/angle holders, clamps or plunger/light switch type, magnetic holders etc. Obviously, if you’re out on the trail, off roading – trail breakfix – integrity/rigidity might overrule OEM specs on angles or manufacture measurements. It’s time to getting your offroad rig off the trail, would something like this help to bring your efforts in line with those manufacture specs per say. Anyhow, these switch magnets might be handy to have around the shop. Various types – Angle Clamps, Magswitch Clamp, Stackable Magnets or Adjustable Angle Magnetic Welding Square.

So, let’s cover what has been unboxed… The Bloom Frother, as you know, the hand mixer had to be ‘adjusted’… a few screws, new batteries, some isopropyl alcohol… and we are back in business. You all know I’m big coffee and tea guy, if not, that’s ok too. I take my coffee and tea with a few pinches of Sugar in the Raw, and depending on the time of day; half-half just to take down the temp a step. There are few handheld ‘frothers’ out there of various color and materials… the Bloom is back to life, new batteries and ready to mix. So, happy with the purchase for now. I’ll post an update on the longterm usage of the Bloom fix. Admittedly, an alternative might be the Bodum Schimuna Whisk which has peaked my interest. Those of you in the market for micro whisk/frother, the Bodum Schimuna might be a good client gift at some point.

Moving along, the SHURE MV7 usb mic! Initial thoughts – great sound, crisp dynamic tones and easy to use, another step forward toward audio/video experiences. The microphone includes a desktop friendly microphone stand. MacOS users will need to download Shure Application to mix and control the external accessory. A little more work to get around the need to purchase additional cables, XLR adapters or fittings. Look for a deep dive, and pictures to accompany the post.

Next, we can cover ditching the air duster can for a powerful, corded air duster in the Aupus APAD15BL Air Duster. Air cans have worked for many years, great pairing with electrical friendly wipes. This plug and play air cannon has variable speeds, cleaning tools, and filters. This small, office friendly tool is a handy little gadget to have in and around the shop as well. While we are on gadgets and tools around the shop/office, we are beefing up the ole’ Makey tech tool set, specifically by adding a set of Torx screwdrivers (T3 – T10) – Tekprem Torx Screwdrivers. One downfall I’d like to call out, is the star/torx bit integrity… you got to be careful with nano screws, give it time… or you might have to replace your bits with a set like these. What I’m seeing is screw lock.. being more beneficial here, good or bad, it takes a toll on the micro-bits used to drive in or unwind electronics. I’ll push out more feedback and comments on the Torx set and air cannon as we use those items on the bench.

Finally, we put picked up a new guitar pick. Most are similar, all have smooth or textured, etc. the main problem I’m having is grip. After a few mins, grip is becoming an issue… might be the ‘player’, but slippage is a problem. Sweat being the culprit. Odd huh? So, I’ve added a mix bag of D’Addario Celluloid picks to the mix. The goal was to switch it up a bit, trying something new. Still have a few Fender Celluloid Medium picks and DunlopMax-Grip variety.