300 episodes

If you are looking for special events coverage of the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA), or any other major convention around the country, look no further. The staff of PLUGHITZ Live travels all over the country to bring you news, reviews, and previews. Special shows air throughout the week of the events and can be found in this feed, as well as exclusive interviews and sneak, peeks right from the show floors. PLUGHITZ Live is a proud member of the Tech Podcasts Network and is part of the PLUGHITZ Live Family of content.

PLUGHITZ Live Presents (Audio‪)‬ PLUGHITZ Live

    • Technology
    • 4.5 • 2 Ratings

If you are looking for special events coverage of the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA), or any other major convention around the country, look no further. The staff of PLUGHITZ Live travels all over the country to bring you news, reviews, and previews. Special shows air throughout the week of the events and can be found in this feed, as well as exclusive interviews and sneak, peeks right from the show floors. PLUGHITZ Live is a proud member of the Tech Podcasts Network and is part of the PLUGHITZ Live Family of content.

    CES 2023: Tech Podcasts Network's Annual Top Picks

    CES 2023: Tech Podcasts Network's Annual Top Picks

    DescriptionEvery year, the hosts from the shows represented in the Tech Podcasts Network's CES coverage get together and award their Top Picks for the show.
    Vasco ElectronicsDon Baine the Gadget ProfessorVasco Electronics makes a series of language translation devices. These devices allow you to communicate with people around you even if you don't speak the language. Their newest device is tiny - coming in well under the size of a modern smartphone. The size makes it easy to carry around with you on an international vacation, business trip, or hanging out with a group of friends who speak different languages.
    The device comes with free internet access that works across most of the globe. This allows for access to the entire language database and translation matrix nearly wherever you go. This is good because the system currently supports over 100 languages, with the ability to add new languages with time.
    VoltSafeScott Ertz from PLUGHITZ LiveOne of the things that has become a normal sight at CES is standards. Whether it's our friends at the Wireless Power Consortium or systems for hanging lights, there's something for everyone. The most impactful standard to our daily lives that we encountered this year was VoltSafe - an upgrade to the outlets in your home.
    These new outlets are powered by magnets instead of blades, making it impossible to shock a child. Plus, you can angle them any way you want, so no more losing outlets because of a "polarized" plug on a wall wart covering your second outlet. In addition, the outlets include monitoring systems to identify areas of your home that are overusing power, saving you money in the long run.
    PivoTodd Cochrane from Geek News CentralPivo is a company that makes tools for content creators like us. Their primary tools are used to connect to your phone and, using AI systems, track users. The device itself physically rotates your phone to keep you in the frame as you move about. It has a large range of motion and can be used for anything from a larger podcast studio to outdoor recordings.
    This year, the new product is designed to work with larger devices, as well as the normal phone usage. Being able to use the Pivo Max with your phone, iPad, or even video camera, makes the whole system even more useful to content producers. In fact, Todd is hoping to be able to use this for his own floor interviews at CES 2024.
    PsyonicMarlo Anderson from The Tech RanchPsyonic makes one of the most impressive robotic hands we've ever seen. Dan St. Pierre wears one full time as a replacement for a lost limb. What makes his arm impressive is that he is able to control it entirely without any external controls. It learned how to respond to his thoughts and ideas and he can now use it like it's his actual hand.
    However, what makes it really interesting in 2023 is the ability to control these arms remotely (but not Dan's). Dr. Aadeel Akhtar shows off the ability to hold your hand in front of a phone camera and have the hand remotely mimick your motions. This could make interactions from NASA space probes more robust with the same articulation of a human hand and with existing solid remote control.
    WowWee Dog-EKirk Corless from GNC Week in ReviewWowWee is a toy company that has long made robotic toys. They were famous in the mid 2000s for the RoboRaptor and the RoboSapien. These days, however, they have turned their focus toward more companion-style robotics. Enter the Dog-E.
    This new dog robot has the ability to generate its own unique personality when you first interact with it. It reveals the personality that was generated over time, in new and bigger ways. You also have the ability to make changes to the personality if you need to. It's also got some unique and odd features, such as a tail that can display text and emoji.
    Conversation with Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central, and Marlo Anderson of The Tech Ranch.
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    • 14 min
    CES 2023: Tech trends & takeaways from the Tech Podcasts Network team

    CES 2023: Tech trends & takeaways from the Tech Podcasts Network team

    DescriptionTo end CES 2023, the Tech Podcasts Network hosts sat down to discuss their experiences. From exciting products that we want to buy for ourselves to trends across the industry, we covered a lot of ground in a very small amount of time.
    Technology costs are decreasingTechnology costs are decreasing at a rapid rate, and this is especially true when it comes to technology used in the broadcasting industry. Just a few years ago, broadcasters needed to purchase expensive equipment and insure it for up to $75,000. Now, however, much of the equipment needed to broadcast can fit into a single Pelican case, and the cost of the entire studio is much less than a single component used to be.
    The team discussed how the organization used to need to ship 24 boxes of equipment to the show floor to broadcast, but now they only need to bring two roller bags, one suitcase, and a Pelican case. This is a drastic decrease in the amount of equipment needed to broadcast, and the cost of the equipment is much lower as well. The LED lights used to cost around $1,400 each, but now they are only around $50. This is a huge cost saving for broadcasters, and it has allowed them to do more with less.
    The Rodecaster is another example of how technology costs are decreasing. This device is used for the mics in the studio for the live broadcast, and it is much more cost-effective than other mixers. This is a great example of how technology has become more affordable and accessible for broadcasters.
    In conclusion, technology costs are decreasing, and this is especially true for the broadcasting industry. From LED lights to streaming platforms, broadcasters are able to do more with less. These cost savings have allowed broadcasters to do more with their budgets, and it has opened up new opportunities for them to create content. Technology costs are decreasing, and this is a great thing for broadcasters and viewers alike.
    Price points vary widelyUsually during the show, we are able to settle on a median price point. This is because, for some reason, every year companies across the globe seem to find a range in which to place their products. For some years it has been lower, in the $100 range. In other years it has been higher, in the $250 range. But, most of the time, there is a common price range. This year, however, things were different.
    Price points vary widely across the consumer market, from low-cost items to high-end luxury products. This was evident this year, when a wide variety of products were showcased, ranging from $50 items to $1,800 outdoor lights. While some products have a set price point, such as the $49, $249, and $199 items, others have no set price and can be sold for what the seller believes it is worth.
    Teamwork makes the dream workTeamwork makes the dream work is an oft-repeated phrase, but its truth is undeniable. Working together, with a shared goal and purpose, is the best way to achieve success. This was certainly the case at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). It took a team of 15 people to put the show together, from the floor staff to the hosts in the booth. Nancy, Todd, Allante, Daniele, Christopher, Terri, Steve, Kirk, Marlo, Scott, Matt, Alice, and Adam all worked together to make the show a success.
    Scott, Todd, and Marlo were the main hosts of the show. Allante and Daniele were responsible for floor interviews and Christopher was her backstop. Terri and Steve from AMRoC Fab Lab were also present for the last couple of days. Kirk was doing TD and out on the floor, taking pictures, and more. Marlo had his own mini-team, with Scott and Alice helping out with interviews.
    The team was able to cover a wide range of technologies, with 85 interviews out of the studio and 150 as a group. Everyone's contributions were essential for the success of the show. Without the collective effort, the show would not have been as successful.
    Conversation with Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Todd Cochrane of Geek News

    • 21 min
    Twinkly: Design and engineering breaking the holiday mold @ CES 2023

    Twinkly: Design and engineering breaking the holiday mold @ CES 2023

    DescriptionTwinkly LED lights have revolutionized the way people can decorate for any occasion. From the Pope's Christmas tree in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican to pumpkins on a Christmas tree, Twinkly LED lights have made it possible for anyone to customize their own decorations.
    Twinkly LED lights for any occasionTwinkly LED lights are app-based, run on a network, and are easy to set up and use. Brandon Brooks, the integrations and support manager for Twinkly, explains that the technology that sets Twinkly apart from its competitors is the ability to map the lights in minutes from a phone. This mapping technology allows users to create custom content and sound reactions.
    The Twinkly LED lights are available in both retail and commercial lines. The retail line is available starting at $50 and is perfect for everyday use. The commercial line is IP 65 rated and is perfect for large-scale projects, such as running sponsorship logos or company logos.
    The possibilities are endless with Twinkly LED lights. With the ability to customize the lights for any occasion, users can create stunning visuals and sound reactions all from the convenience of their phone. Whether it's a holiday event or a special occasion, Twinkly LED lights can help make any occasion a memorable one.
    Create with ease and speedWhat makes Twinkly LED lights so special is their ease and speed of use. With just a few clicks on the app, users can map out their lights and create a show-stopping display in minutes. The app allows users to quickly select the area they want to map, and then the lights automatically map out the space. Once the lights are mapped, users can easily customize the lighting with preloaded effects or create their own.
    The process is incredibly simple. Once the lights are powered on, you connect them to your phone using the Twinkly app. You then go into mapping mode and all you do is point the phone at the LEDS - no matter how they are arranged and placed. Using a patented process, the lights go into specific color patterns, allowing the app to know which pixel is in what location. Once mapped, the system can run colors, patterns, and animations.
    With the ability to create easily and quickly, Twinkly LED lights have become a popular choice for those looking to create a unique and memorable experience. From storefronts to parades to buses, Twinkly LED lights can be used to create a special atmosphere. With the time-saving capabilities of the app, users can quickly build a set that would have taken weeks to build with traditional methods.
    Teamwork makes success possibleTeamwork is essential to the success of any project, and this is especially true with Twinkly LED lights. The team at Twinkly is comprised of individuals from all over the world, each bringing their own unique skills and talents to the table. The team works together to ensure that the product is of the highest quality and that the customer experience is top-notch. As a technology company, Twinkly has embraced technology in order to feel closer to one another while working remotely. However, events like CES, bringing everyone together, is always a treat.
    Learn moreBoth the consumer and commercial Twinkly lights are available directly from the company. To learn more about the features available and the variety of LED styles, check out the company's website.
    Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.
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    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost, Episode AuthorScott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments

    • 14 min
    Essence Group: IoT solutions for security and healthcare @ CES 2023

    Essence Group: IoT solutions for security and healthcare @ CES 2023

    DescriptionThe Internet of Things (IoT) is a rapidly growing technology that is revolutionizing the way we live. IoT solutions for safety are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to protect themselves and their families. IoT solutions can be used to monitor environmental conditions, detect falls, provide medical assistance, and more. Essence Group produces IoT devices for various industries around the world.
    SmartCare - Aging in Place TechnologyFor many seniors, living alone can become a challenge. However, giving up your autonomy can be a big change that many refuse to accept. For this, Essence has SmartCare, a line of connected devices to allow seniors to age in place. SmartCare devices include a wristband, an in-home monitor, and an app that helps both seniors and their caregivers keep track of vital signs. This way, seniors can maintain their independence while still maintaining the security they need. SmartCare devices can also be used to detect falls or other medical emergencies so help can be dispatched quickly.
    With SmartCare, seniors can enjoy their freedom with the peace of mind that help is only a few taps away. SmartCare devices are also an invaluable asset to healthcare professionals. Doctors and nurses can access vital signs remotely to provide better care in real time, especially when patients may not be able to come in for regular checkups. SmartCare also allows medical personnel to keep a closer eye on their patients, ensuring that any changes or issues are caught quickly. This helps seniors get the care they need and gives healthcare professionals peace of mind knowing that they are doing everything they can to help.
    The SmartCare system is designed with both patient privacy and security in mind. All vital data is transmitted securely with the highest encryption standards in place. This means that seniors can rest assured knowing that their sensitive health information is safe and secure. SmartCare also offers a variety of privacy options so that users can choose how much of their data they want to share, helping them stay in control of their own health records.
    SmartCare helps seniors to stay connected with their caregivers while providing an easy way for healthcare professionals to keep an eye on their patients and provide proactive care. With SmartCare, seniors can access their health records and track vital signs from the comfort of their own homes. This allows them to stay up-to-date with their medical information as well as get help quickly if any changes are detected. SmartCare also helps seniors stay connected to their healthcare providers, with easy-to-use appointment reminders and other helpful notifications.
    SmartCare is designed with privacy and security in mind, so that seniors can have peace of mind when entrusting their data to the platform. The system is compliant with HIPAA regulations, and any data stored in the system is kept secure using the latest encryption technologies. The platform is also easy to use - seniors can access their health records via a secure web portal or mobile app, making it convenient to stay informed about their healthcare.
    Secure with MyShieldWhen we think about connected devices, most of us immediately think about security. Essence produces a full line of security products to keep you and your loved ones safe at home.
    MyShield is a revolutionary product that is designed to help protect against break-ins. It works by using emotion sensors to detect a break-in and then releasing a non-toxic fog that quickly fills up a room in 30 seconds. This fog makes it impossible for the perpetrator to see what they are stealing, thus making it much harder for them to get away with the crime. Additionally, the device has a battery that lasts up to a year and a half, an LTE chip, and it is easy to attach to the wall.
    MyShield is already popular in Europe, where it has sold over a million units to Verisher. It is now being introduced to the US market and is suitab

    • 15 min
    Syntech: High quality accessories that don't break the bank @ CES 2023

    Syntech: High quality accessories that don't break the bank @ CES 2023

    DescriptionFinding quality accessories for electronics can be a challenge. With the prevalence of online shopping, it can be difficult to know what you're getting, and it's even harder to get something that looks good and works well. Fortunately, there are companies like Syntech that are dedicated to providing quality accessories for electronics that look good and work well.
    Quality accessories for electronicsSyntech was founded by Edward, a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley. He noticed that, while there were great electronics on the market, there weren't many good accessories to go with them. He wanted to create something better, and so he started Syntech to provide quality accessories for electronics.
    Syntech has a wide range of products, from cables and adapters to chargers, charging cables, and even USB-C 4-in-1 hubs. All of their products have been designed with quality in mind, with aluminum designs and braided cables that are designed to last. Syntech also has a strong supply chain management system in place to ensure that all of its products are of the highest quality.
    Syntech also has a range of products specifically designed for gaming, such as a VR gaming console and a head strap with a cross-upper strap for added comfort and stability. They also have a detachable power bank, so you can take it with you on the go.
    Overall, Syntech is a great choice for anyone looking for quality accessories for their electronics. Their products are designed to look good and work well, and they have a strong supply chain management system in place to ensure that all of their products meet their high standards. Whether you're looking for cables, adapters, chargers, or gaming accessories, Syntech has something for everyone.
    Syntech makes gaming betterThe company offers a line of gaming accessories for everything from the Steam Deck to the Oculus. For the Steam Deck, there is a docking station with a round design to make sure it's stable and doesn't block any part of the screen. The vent in the back is also not covered, which is important for making sure the product stays cool.
    The company also offers a line of products for the Oculus headsets. All of these products are designed to be comfortable and stable, with plenty of padding and straps to keep them secure. The battery in the back also helps to counterbalance the weight of the headset, making it easier to wear for long periods of time. Syntech also has a link cable that can be connected to your PC to get more games. The cable is long enough to provide plenty of space to play, and the controller grip has a protector to make sure it doesn't get thrown.
    Learn moreIf you're looking for quality accessories for your electronics, then you should definitely consider shopping Syntech on Amazon. Their products are designed to be comfortable and stable, and they have a wide selection of products available. With their strong supply chain management system in place, you can be sure that all of their products meet their high standards. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Amazon or their website and check out Syntech today!
    Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.
    Sponsored by:

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    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost, Episode AuthorScott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspira

    • 11 min
    Wireless Power Consortium: Qi 2 and Ki Cordless Kitchen @ CES 2023

    Wireless Power Consortium: Qi 2 and Ki Cordless Kitchen @ CES 2023

    DescriptionWireless charging is a revolutionary technology that has made it easier than ever to charge our mobile devices. With the Wireless Power Consortium's Qi standard, it is now possible to charge our phones, tablets, and other devices without the need for cords and cables. With the Ki cordless kitchen, they are bringing the concept into the most important room in the home.
    Wireless charging made easyThe Qi 2 standard is the next generation of wireless charging technology, and it is designed to make the process even more efficient. The standard features a magnetic power profile similar to Apple's MagSafe, which ensures a perfect alignment between the phone and the charger. This means that there is no loss of energy, resulting in faster charging and more efficient use of energy.
    In addition, the Qi 2 standard also features authentication, which helps to ensure that the device being charged is compatible with the charger. This helps to prevent any potential damage to the device and allows for a smoother charging experience.
    The Qi 2 standard is also designed to work with all types of devices, so you don't have to worry about compatibility issues. This means that you can use your Qi 2 charger with any mobile device, regardless of brand.
    The Qi 2 standard is the perfect solution for anyone looking for an easy and efficient way to charge their devices. With its magnetic power profile and authentication capabilities, it ensures that your device is always charged quickly and safely. So if you're looking for a way to make wireless charging easier, look no further than the Qi 2 standard.
    Cordless kitchen convenienceBut the Wireless Power Consortium isn't just for charging your devices. It's also working to design the perfect kitchen. The Ki standard has been designed for use in the kitchen, creating a cordless kitchen experience. With this technology, kitchen appliances like blenders, air fryers, juicers, multi-mixers, tea kettles, and coffee makers can all be powered wirelessly. This eliminates the need for cords, which can be a nuisance and cause accidents. It also means that outlets don't have to be close to the appliance in order to use it.
    The Ki standard also ensures that the kitchen appliances are safe to use. Devices will go through a rigorous testing process conducted by independent third-party labs. This will ensure that the appliance meets all safety and compatibility standards. This is important for consumer safety, as well as protecting the Ki brand.
    The Ki standard also makes it easier to keep food warm on the dinner table or a serving table for a banquet. This eliminates the need for candles and makes it easier to keep food warm for longer periods of time. It's been adapted for use in private airplanes and RVs, making it perfect for small spaces and weight-constrained areas. It's even been adapted for use by senior citizens, making it easier for them to use kitchen appliances.
    The Ki standard is a great way to make kitchen appliances more convenient and safe. With its rigorous testing process and its ability to power appliances wirelessly, it's the perfect solution for anyone looking to make their kitchen experience easier and more efficient.
    Learn moreThe Qi 2 standard has officially been released and is ready for the public. The Ki standard is currently in the process of being finalized and should be available to the public in the middle of 2024. This is great news for people who have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the wireless kitchen of the future. Once the standard is finalized, it will be easier than ever to make the switch to a more efficient and safer kitchen.
    If you're interested in learning more about the Qi 2 standard or the Ki cordless kitchen standard, you can visit the Wireless Power Consortium's website for more information.
    Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.
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    • 13 min

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