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Anyone Home @ Google Calendar?

Last modified on 2009-08-10 09:15:36 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

I’ve been getting into a rhythm on importing my schedule into Google Calendar over the last couple of months. Once it’s available in final format from my company I’m usually able to upload my custom made, Google tailored-CSV file so that my family and friends are aware of my “awesome” overnights. But during the last few weeks, I’ve been unsuccessful at too many attempts.

Trying to import a CSV file so that I wouldn’t have to manually add each line item one at a time, I found myself editing it over and over thinking it was my fault that I didn’t format it correctly. I even copied the example that Google provides with their respective headers (Google Help:About CSV Files), added it to the first line of my CSV file and crossed my fingers. Result –> #FAIL

After two weeks of failure on what I can only determine is / was on Google’s Part, I was able to successfully import my CSV file only when it contained 4 lines under the header. This idea was originally put forth by another fellow Google Calendar user by the name of “Ripp” where he was able to successfully import his CSV file 8 lines at a time. My CSV file was, without a doubt, formatted correctly as I’ve been doing this for the last few months. If you are wondering what calendar I am importing into, you can access it located immediately to the right under “Personality Links – current flight schedule”

Over the last few months, many users of Google Calendar who rely on importing their own CSV files have complained in Google’s support forums specifically under “calendar not loading“. Many have seen constant outages on various Sundays throughout the year and others have seen that the process of uploading a CSV or CalDEV file remains hopeless. User “Coach McGurk” posted an issue back on April 30th with the suspicion that Google abandoned the Calendar application and even diagnosed the service issue.

I have managed to find some more info on what is failing.

The service at: http://www.google.com/calendar/upload_event is what has broken. Neither CalDAV nor csv will upload regardless of browser, location, http vs https, or calendar being uploaded to.

Of course, just a couple of days later, the service was up and running once again.

It’s hard when you come to depend on a company like Google for your simple “cloud” services if the cloud is raining constantly. I’ve been using gcal and gmail for the last couple of years, but just lately, the syncing, lack of push on the iPhone and proper IMAP configuration, as well the shortfall of what MobileMe has not become, I just don’t know what to do anymore. It’s more than frustrating that I have to spend more than 1-2 hours a week troubleshooting this. Why can’t we just have something that works properly? It’s 2009 guys.

WordPress & the Veritable Plethora of Plug-ins

Last modified on 2009-07-08 23:27:24 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

I just had to make a shout out and create a separate post on this awesome plug-in by BraveNewCode:WPTouch (Plug-In Website)/ WPtouch iPhone Theme (WordPress Plug-In Site)

WPtouch automatically transforms your WordPress blog into a web-application experience when viewed from an iPhone, iPod touch or Android touch mobile device. It comes complete with all the standard WordPress blog features: search, login, categories, tags, archives, photos & more. WPtouch also offers many customization features through a beautifully designed WordPress admin panel.

It’s awesome as you can now visit simply elijahnicolas.com on your iPhone/iTouch/Android mobile device and load up a very friendly iPhone/iTouch/Android webpage.  Check it out, browse around and post a comment!

It was easy to activate as I don’t feel the need to edit or do anything with it.  It’s was way too simple as are many of the various plug-ins that are available on the WordPress Content Manager Platform.  Of course, if you want to view my website in it’s normal site appearance, there’s an option in the footer courtesy of the app’s awesome interface options.

rating: Perfect 10!!!

Power Support Anti-Glare / Matte Film for MacBook Pro (unibody)

Last modified on 2009-02-07 19:50:34 GMT. 3 comments. Top.

After deciding that I was “done” with the glossy screen on the new unibody Macbook Pro 15″, I decided to read up on some matte solutions. The company that has sold hundreds for their Anti-Glare / Matte Screen Protector on the iPhone 3G just so happen to produce one, in a bigger scale of course, that would fit the new notebook.  Power Support once again comes through with delivering exactly what you would expect; a normal looking LCD screen that is free from the bothers of florescent lighting and natural lighting from the window behind you.  Here are some pictures below.  

As of now though, I’m in a little bit of a bind because even tough I was able to remove all the air bubbles and dust spots, the top left corner posses a mis-alignment that just won’t let the air bubbles escape.  Since the rest of the viewable screen is near perfect, I’m really hesistant to start over and peel the whole thing off.  I’ll just have to settle I guess.  =)  rating: 8/10 the fact that it doesn’t come with scotch tape and that they only provide you with one $34.95 dollar screen protector just makes it almost a little TOO much!    

I also bought the Speck’s SeeThru Satin Soft-Touch on a Hard Shell Case For MacBook Pro 15″ (new, black keys) and I’ll have a write up soon.

*update* concerning the Speck SeeThru Satin Soft-Touch Hard Shell – I decided to return it because it added so much bulk that I couldn’t fit it inside of my Brenthaven Macbook Pro Case.  It also added a little too much weight to where the lid would almost slam shut when just tilted low enough.  I might be trying the InvisiShield a little later when finances permit.  Saving $50.00 on the case is definitely a must!

Review: Contour Showcase for the iPhone 3G

Last modified on 2008-09-15 15:01:32 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

It’s about time that I’m able to finally review the Contour Showcase for the iPhone 3G.  I’ve been flying around the Eastern Seaboard without a case on mi iPhone blanco for the last month and half ever since Contour replied to my inquiry that they were in fact releasing a better case.  So, without further adieu, I bring you some photos. 

Staying true to all other Contour products, the packaging remains the same except for name of the product on the lower left hand corner of the box.  It’s definitely a little confusing when actually trying to find the right case in the Apple store when all the Contour cases are hanging in a vertical configuration with all the same black boxes.

The case comes with a side clip for those tools like me that like to have their pockets free from clutter.  You can clip the device to the holster either face in or face out, your choice.  If I did carry the phone in my pocket, I would have a lot of scratches on the device, so it definitely adds to the longevity of the device.  You can configure the clip at any angle, whether you like it horizontal along your hip, perpendicular or prefer some type of cowboy angle.  The releasing from the hip clip is a little more tricky and sometimes it feels like you need to use two hands to release it but you get the hang of it after a while.  It’s just a little tight when you first start using it.

The case itself opens from the top with ease but shuts securely around the device.  The iPhone drops in from the top and fits snugly into the bottom fourth of the case leaving the bottom open to allow syncing with a cable.  Since I don’t have the newest dock, I’m not sure if it will allow for dock usage, but I’ll update this soon when I try it at the store.  The case itself allow access to all the side buttons and headset jack without any obstruction while the top sleep button is covered but easy to trigger.  You won’t even know that it is covered as the response is great compared to other cases.

The front of the Showcase protects the top quarter of the iPhone 3G leaving an opening for the speaker while the bottom quarter protects the area around the Home button.  The Showcase has a clear back shouting out to the public the version of device that you own.

Conclusion: The Contour Showcase is the must have case for the iPhone 3G due to the premium construction of the molding.  “Starting with a base chassis of light weight (dual injected) polycarbonate, each Showcase is then bordered in a supple rubber finish.”  This provides for a good shock absorber for those clumsy moments and trust me, you’ll want the extra insurance.  It was a long time waiting and after going through 4 different cases, I’m glad that I was finally able to get my hands on one while having an overnight in Stamford, Connecticut.

Pick one up online at Contour’s Website or at your local Apple Retail Store.  The stores haven’t been able to keep a steady stock on these cases, so I’d call in advance.  Enjoy! rating: Perfect 10

The last picture below just show how much of a tool I am with the hip clip situate horizontally along my waist.

Power Support anti-glare film + Contour Design iSee (product review)

Last modified on 2008-08-09 07:41:00 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

Due to the tremendous demand for both Power Support’s “anti-glare / matte film” and Contour Design’s iSee 3G Clear Hardcase, it took two weeks until I was finally able to pick up a set.  So, I headed down to the Apple Store tonight at one of San Diego’s finest shopping malls, Fashion Valley: A Simon Mall and with luck, I quickly snatched up both products.

It was going to be a quick return of the Agent 18, and after much consideration and one letter to Contour asking when the next iteration of their Showcase for the iPhone 3G would come out, I knew that I needed to settle with something that could offer me protection right away.  The glossy screen protector that came packaged with other case solutions offered a clear plastic static cling piece but it’s major flaw was that it attracted too many fingerprints and my oily face didn’t help the problem.  I was plagued, since day one, with a screen that I had to perpetually wipe off every time I put the phone to my ear or played games further oil smudges with my fingerprints.

Both screen protectors offer the benefit of covering the entire face of the iPhone 3G with the exception of the Home button, that are made of a static cling plastic that adheres with ease, stays put and offers an easy, no sticky residue allowing you to remove, cleanr and reapplt at your leisure.  The biggest difference between the two can be easily compared to having a glossy LCD screen vs. a matte LCD screen. (e.g. shipped on the original Apple Powerbook LCD)

You can clearly see that the screen on the left with the protector that came prepackaged with a previous case wasn’t doing so much in the department of cleanliness.  This is not a direct comparison with Power Support’s Crystal film set but it still is indicative of what you will get in terms of overall result.  Over the to the right, you have the Power Support anti-glare film that was newly applied and fondled with finger streaks and face rubs.  Without a doubt, I truly believe that the anti-glare / matte screen protector is the way to go.  It helps the screen in every way possible deflecting scratches, fingerprints, and glare.  I was using the previous protector for 2 weeks now, and I’m more than happy with what I got with Power Support’s product.  It is ridiculous though that 2 pieces of film cost $14.95.  It seems as if everything for these Apple products are being priced way too high!  rating: 9/10

The iSee is self explanatory.  The installation is easy and the clear plastic is beautiful.  I applied the iSee case with no problem but the biggest gripe that I have are that the two soft keys (not pictured) that come packaged and are used to protect the hold key and volume buttons.  Simple put, they are just too hard to press and are frustrating!  I rather almost not have them on at all.  I still love the fit and like the fact that it protects the metal edge of the iPhone 3G well.  Coupled with the anti-glare screen from Power Support, you have one heck of a solution for protection.

For another $10, a holster and clip are made available for the iSee, but if you wait for Contour Design’s Showcase, it comes all prepackaged including a shock absorbing rubber that borders the inside of the clear protective case.  Looks like I’ll be doing a more extensive review of that case at a later date, but for now, I recommend the iSee.  rating: 8/10

update – of course, when I finally settle for a solution, Contour Design’s website shows that the Showcase for the iPhone 3G is set to ship out on the 15th of August.  You can send one over to my address any time and I’ll do a review.  Thanks guys!

Surefire’s G2 LED Flashlight

Last modified on 2009-10-27 03:22:24 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

Well, here it is. I’m not just finally able to accomplish my walk arounds, but I’m equipped with one of the best flashlights I have ever used. I leveled up a notch but definitely haven’t maxed out. For a low price, and I say low only because it is one of the cheapest that Surefire has to offer (A2 Aviator sells for $195.00), it’s truly the best out there. The Surefire G2 sells for $65.00 and it is worth every penny as long as I can keep on my person and not misplace it.

I had a Mag-lite mini that I modded with a Luxeon LED which was great but that was taken from me in the beginning of my career here at ASA and never returned. I replaced it shortly with a what I thought would be a good flashlight, the Coast 3-LED, but that was a big let down. Not much to say there, but I’ll give the G2 my personal recommendation until I test out the G3 or the A2. This flashlight is almost overkill really, but it’s just nice to carry a light saber in the cold dark mornings.

More pictures after the jump alongside the Coast 3-LED Flashlight with night and day pictures.

The Surefire G2 LED Flashlight is touted as one of the most compact, high-intensity LED flashlights that are great for tactical, outdoor and general use. I chose to use it for aviation specifically but that’s just me. The beam is advertised to put out 4x the light of a larger two-D-cell flashlight attacking Maglite directly as they are still the leader in this business. I haven’t tried it out yet, but Surefire also says that it is bright enough to temporarily blind and disorient a person by impairing his night-adapted vision. It’s detailed specifications include a max output of 80 lumens, a runtime of 12 hours, measures 5.14″ and weighs in at 4.10 ounces. “Constructed of lightweight, corrosion-proof Nitrolon® polymer and rugged aerospace-grade aluminum,” this flashlight should last the test of my lifetime. The batteries are the only draw to the flashlight as they use two 123A lithium batteries would could add up in cost. ($1.75 each x 2 = $3.50 per 12 hours) My walk arounds don’t take that long, but I’ll post the first time I have to replace the battery.

Taking a look at these pictures, you cannot even see the beam that the Coast 3-LED light is shinning! I’m telling you that it’s on as you can see on my fingertips. The Surefire G2 is a little larger but the spot light is brighter than the sun in the darkness.

There two pictures only differ in exposure, but in the normal shot to the left, you can see the faint light that the Coast 3-LED is shinning. Now, I’m not going to jump all over and say that Coast’s Flashlight are inadequate, especially if one of my good friends uses them. They are cheaper, and I’m sure that his might shine a lot brighter than the one that I own because of his 1-LED fixture, but this comparison is over! Surefire wins outright. I’ll update this post with another comparison between the Coast 1-LED and the Surefire G2 at a later date when I cross roads with that aforementioned flashlight.

Update: Apparently, I was naive in posting that the brand that I had compared.  Instead of Coastal, the proper name should be Coast Flashlights.  More specifically, the Coast LED Lenser V2 (3-LED) Flashlight is the one that I compare to the Surefire G2.   Thanks for the correction =)

Joey Roth’s Sorapot Unboxing

Last modified on 2009-10-27 03:22:04 GMT. 4 comments. Top.

It’s finally here; The Simple, Modern Sorapot by Joey Roth.   Mr. Roth sold out the first 300 and with the 2nd batch, he included a pack of some of his favorite tea from The Simple Leaf; a sample 1 oz pack of Honeybee Nepal Oolong.  That to me was more than worth the wait.  He had the kindness to notify me and ask if I could wait, and I agreed.  What else could you do as a customer but accept his reward for not minding to wait?  That’s customer service right from the top.  Now, for the details.  I arrived home after a long 4 day trip not expecting anything except my Surefire G2 LED Replacement Flashlight and low and behold, something else was awaiting my unwrapping! 

The first picture is of the Mr. Roth Seal on top of the outer packaging.  Not much to say here except that the package weighed in at 5 lbs.  Next, compensation for the long wait was a 1 oz. bag of tea and a coupon for my next order at The Simple Leaf which was perfect because I haven’t found a great place in Atlanta to buy some fresh leaves just yet.  I faintly remember that there was a place in the Lenox Square Mall, but it’s just too far to go check out.   Here’s are two more pictures before you have to click on more to keep on reading.  Check out the string and the innards! 

 

Intricate but simple.  I know that’s an oxymoron, but that word alone sums up the amount of detail that I believe had to of transpired in the overall package design.  Untying the box was such a joy but opening the egg crate box to reveal what was inside was that much better.  The directions wrapped around the glass pot, that was awesome.  Forget about the little small pamphlets that no one looks at!  Unrolling this paper was just too good.  Creative!

The lighted picture is the best that I could offer being that I’m still stuck using my measly 4.0 MP Sony DSC-P9.  The first picture shows the final product sitting on top of the box ready to get dismantled and injected with some tea leaves!  The final product couldn’t have looked any better.  The construction is flawless, but I have to say that the spout is a little harsh in that it isn’t smooth like the rest of the steel.  Doesn’t seem like the finish was thorough, but either than that, nothing else was short of perfect.  More than a conversational piece, it’s just an awesome pot.  The second picture shows the steel casing unscrewed and the glass taken out.  Conveniently coupled with my Zojirushi Water Boiler, I just have to put some leaves in, reassemble the device and then pour the hot water in and wait.  It was meant to be! 

There next two pictures show the Sorapot before the water ready to go with leaves inside, and the next with the tea brewing away!  The tea was a little dry and I have yet to perfect the master brew, but being my first try, I was more than happy to get going and drink away. 

This piece will definitely stay with me throughout the my travels and will always sit alongside my favorite items.  It’s not just art…it’s simple but wonderful at the same time.  Fulfilling if you want to call it.  I just think that everyone should get one already and help out Joey Roth because he is the man. 

If you want high quality, detailed pictures, as mine do not give the Sorapot it’s well deserved recognition, head over to the official site: Sorapot – a Simple, Modern Teapot

Now if he every produces his teacups, count me in to complete my coffee table set.