Flir One Thermal Image Device

The heat is on with the Flir One Thermal Image Device

The Flir One released the very first personal thermal image device designed specifically for your iPhone 5 & 5s at CES 2014.

As the first and only personal thermal imager for the consumer market under $350, Flir One is compact, easy-to-use, compatible with the iPhone5 and 5s and fits on the phone like a protective case.

Once mounted, the device displays a live thermal image on the phone’s screen, giving users unprecedented ability to “see” in an array of conditions, including complete darkness.

The device combines an infrared thermal camera that converts energy (heat) into an electronic signal which is then translated into an image on to your phone’s screen. With the ability to see heat, it allows you to identify those pesky things like moisture detection, energy loss, and many more creative possibilities.

Cool Features:

•The onboard battery source powers the device for more than two hours of continuous use; can also be configured to boost the iPhone5 and 5s* battery life by 50 percent.

•It can see in the dark, observe invisible heat sources, see through smoke, and even see through some materials. Scene range temperature: 32 °F to 212 °F (O °C to 100 °C)

•MSX Blending (Adds visible spectrum detail to thermal images and enhances resolution)

•Video capture (.mov format), Still image capture, Choice of color palettes (B/W, W/B, Rainbow, Contrast, Arctic, Hot/Cold, Iron)

While the case adds a bit of chunkiness to your svelte handset, it’s a minor trade-off for awesome Predator-like heat vision. And while the iPhone 5 version of the Flir case will be available this summer, the company is working on an Android version as well. 🙂

Whether you want this device to detect a leak, look at deer in the middle of the night, or help you navigate through smoke you have to admit it’s pretty cool.

February 3, 2014

The Docking Drawer

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a contractor scratch his head and look at me with glazed eyes as I try to describe what I need from his electrician to provide a drawer for my clients to charge their devices out of sight.

The Docking Drawer™ from JTech Solutions removes the hassle with a convenient and safe way to integrate a grounded outlet into a cabinet drawer.

The outlet comes with two grounded 3-pronged outlets and two USB outlets with integrated on/off safety switch. The Docking Drawer™ is UL 962 approval pending and max rated for 3A/375w. The circuit is protected by 5A pop out breaker accessible from inside the cabinet.

The Docking drawer is best installed during new construction but can be retrofitted if you can run an electrical line to the rear of the cabinet. The drawer may need to be modified since the device has a limited reach. The device alone costs $139.00.

I think I might need to test one and see how it works with my standard cabinet specs.

January 29, 2014

Slimmker Click Floating Ceramic Tile

Inalco Slimmker Click takes the high-performance characteristics of the Slimmker Floor product and marries it with traditional tongue-and-groove laminate flooring plywood backing.

This creates an easy-to-install flooring option. The semi-translucent white porcelain collection can be made in many lighter porcelain designs which allow for backlighting much like an onyx or alabaster slab.

Inalco’s Slimmker Click Collection is lightweight, versatile and ideal for places where surface coverings are regularly changed.

January 26, 2014

Cava 36 Bottle Wine Credenza

The Vinotemp Cava credenza is the perfect solution for serving and storing your wine collection when you don’t like the look of a stainless steel and glass box.

The Cava Credenza has the ability to hold up to 36 bottles in two independently controlled refrigerated units, up to 18 wine glasses in the central hanging stemware racks, and all of your favorite wine accessories in its 3 storage drawers.

The Cava Credenza has dual thermoelectric cooling systems with 53° to 64°F temperature range and soft interior lighting to beautifully display your favorite wines without adding heat. It is available in two finishes: Espresso and Rich Maple.

The Credenza is 54″ wide, 22″ deep, 40″ high and weighs close to 250 pounds. Pricing is set at $1,780 plus $415 freight. It does not meet CA prop. 65 regulations.

While this credenza does not hold a lot of bottles, I think the use of furniture feet give it a lighter appearance than other models on the market. I’d prefer if one cooler could handle large or oddly shaped bottles. If you place a champagne bottle in this credenza you will most likely reduce the overall bottle capacity that can be stored.