TRAVEL TO SPACE FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR LIVING ROOM @ExploreSpaceKSC #JoinTheJourney

January 25, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Experience space as only NASA astronauts have before with the new, custom-designed Space Visor virtual reality headset and mobile applications available exclusively at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Available for purchase at visitor complex gift shops and online at TheSpaceShop.com, the Space Visor transports users to a spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS), where they can explore inside and learn about each module, and then to the surface of the moon on a rocky lunar rover ride.  Other experiences include visits to restricted areas at the visitor complex such as the Gemini IX and Apollo 14 capsules and more. The headset can be used while at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and then from anywhere else a user might be.

“At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex we create immersive space experiences for our visitors,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “The Space Visor is the next step to bring our guests an unparalleled experience at the height of current technology.”

The premium headset allows users to interact with three separate applications:

  • KSC 360 Expedition encompasses all parts of the visitor complex, and users are prompted to learn facts about each rocket in the Rocket Garden, gaze at space shuttle Atlantis as she floats in orbit, take a ride on the moon in a lunar rover at the Apollo/Saturn V Center and sit in the commander seat of the Mercury-Atlas 8, Gemini IX and Apollo 14 capsules.
  • Space Dreams explores the room of a space-inspired child to learn facts and figures about the solar system from galactic-themed décor including each planet, a Mars rover and a Mercury spacesuit.
  • Edge of Home allows guests to see the International Space Station like an astronaut; they will take part in an extravehicular activity, walk around the outside of the ISS while learning facts and figures about each module.

Delaware North, operators of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, worked with Orlando-based VR technology partner, brandVR, to create content that is compelling and approachable for all audiences.

For more information, click here.

This information has been provided by and used with permission of www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

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How to Choose the Best Computer to Play Minecraft

January 10, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Technically, you can play Minecraft on any computer. However, this game is based on the programming language Java. So you will need a computer capable of running Java programs. All new computers can do this. However, Java takes up significant processing power to function properly. So, even if a computer can run Minecraft, it may not do it well. If the computer you are using lacks enough processing power, Minecraft will lag and run on a low-frame rate.

If you are looking for the ideal computer to play Minecraft, here are some tips:

PCs are the Best

Minecraft can run on PC, Linux, Macs, Xbox, Playstation and even on computers powered by Raspberry Pi. However, PC is the best type of computer play the game on. If you have a good desktop or laptop PC with a powerful graphics card, that’s all you need to play the game. You do not technically need a gaming computer for Minecraft. However, if you also want to play other games, it won’t hurt to buy a low-budget gaming laptop or a desktop.

Framerate Matters

Framerate, or fps (frames per second), is how fast individual images can be displayed on a screen so it looks like the images are moving. You may know this as moving picture, or movie, technology (very fancy). Video games display images similarly to movies. The graphics you want to see on the game will be affected by your computer’s fps. The higher the fps, the better. You can change this setting in-game, but there’s no point in tuning up in-game fps very high if the computer you are using cannot render the fps that fast. The basic frame rate for Minecraft is around 50 fps. Standard computers can manage around 60 fps. Gaming computers usually have double that rate, which will be more than enough to play Minecraft smoothly with great blocky graphics.

Get a Solid Processor

Ultimately, it comes down to the computer’s processor and memory. The Intel Pentium processor is the most basic processor that you can play Minecraft without major issues. You can upgrade to Intel Core i3, but this processor is largely similar to Pentium but costs extra. Ideally, Intel Core i5 with 4GB or 8GB RAM is the best processor for the game at the moment. Of course, you will have to combine the processor with a good graphics card. Core i7 processors are great if you already have one. There is no need to upgrade from i5 to i7, as you won’t get noteworthy perks for the additional cost.

Pair the Processor with a Good Graphics Card

Minecraft’s graphics are meant to be blocky like in arcade machines of the yore. However, a good graphics card will render the images best without lag. You need to pair a solid processor with a good graphics card like Nvidia GeForce GTX 950M or Iris Graphics 6100. Make sure the graphics card comes with at least 4GB of memory. Your computer will need at least 4GB of memory as well.

You can optimize your Minecraft experience further by buying an ergonomic external mouse and perhaps an external keyboard if you are using a laptop.

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Mincraft at Best Buy @BestBuy @Minecraft #ad

December 14, 2016 by 7 Comments

Minecraft is one of the my son’s favorite games.  My husband, not as much, but he is learning (and also learning how much of an old man he is sometimes).  You can build and explore exciting new worlds with Best Buy’s assortment of Minecraft games and collectibles.

Minecraft is a game about placing blocks and going on adventures.  Where players can use their imagination, they can bring anything their digital heart desires to life. This translates into a robust level of online shared works to explore.  Visit randomly generated worlds as well as build amazing things from the simplest of homes to the grandest of castles.  Minecraft is less of a game and more of a digital revolution.  Play in Creative Mode with unlimited resources, or mine deep in Survival Mode, crafting weapons and armor to fend off dangerous mobs. Do all this alone, or with friends.  Co-Op mode is a blast with a family member or a friend.  My husband honestly didn’t see the point in Minecraft until he sat down and played Co-Op with the kiddo. The games are very family-friendly, and great for kids and adults of any age.  The toys and collectibles make great gifts for anyone already into the game or just getting their feet wet.

Best Buy carries a large assortment the assortment of Minecraft products – this includes an Xbox One S console bundle, additional Minecraft games, and Minecraft toys and collectibles.  The coolest being (of course) the Xbox One S console bundle, which includes not only the Xbox One S 500GB console, but also Xbox Wireless Controller, Minecraft: Xbox One Edition Favorites Pack, Minecraft Builder’s Pack, Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta,  and also 14-day Xbox Live Gold trial.  The Xbox One S is the same as an Xbox One but is now powered up with 4K Blu-ray, 4k video streaming and HDR all this while being 40% smaller.

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4 Travel Gadgets That Can Save Your Time And Power For Leisure

December 13, 2016 by 2 Comments

Whether you are doing it for business or pleasure, traveling is something that is in the core of our society. Ever since airfare made it easier to go from one location to the other, people have been scouring the globe finding new opportunities to advance their studies, career or simply to relax and enjoy the beautiful planet we live in. Whether you are a tourist or travel often for business, there are certain appliances that will aid on your journey. To help you out make your travel experience better, we’ve gathered the four best gadgets that can save your time and power for leisure.

A Portable Speaker and a Nice Pair of Headphones/Earplugs

Regardless of the device you are constantly wearing with you, you will most probably need a good sound system to go with it. Making your nights at the hotel a bit more sound, portable speakers are a must-have equipment for any tourist. A perfect accessory, portable speakers will let you enjoy your music library on your trip. Furthermore, if you are a music lover, you will definitely need a nice pair of headphones or earplugs that will let you get into your musical comfort zone when traveling. What’s more a portable speaker and a nice pair of headphones are one of the cheapest accessories that you can purchase with some great budget choices for travel going for as low as $25. Just make sure to do your research before purchasing your accessory.

Depending on what you prefer, there are different options that might be more suitable for you. For example, the Inateck Aries are amazing earphones that look quite expensive and deliver a nice sound quality, but are in fact relatively cheap. On the other hand, if you prefer being recognized for the tech you own, you might consider purchasing Beats headphones. When it comes to Bluetooth speakers there are a ton of different brands and options on the market. One of the more affordable ones for example, the Lava Brightsounds is a great choice that works both as a travel lamp and a Bluetooth speaker. However, if it is too big for you to carry, you might want to check out something that is smaller, but more expensive, like the Denon Envaya Mini or the UE Roll.

The Smart SuitCase

If you travel often, then the BlueSmart Suitcase is a definite must on your list of tourist accessories you should purchase. One of the most innovative pieces of tech in the recent decade, the Bluesmart Smart Suitcase has a number of great features that make it stand out from the regular suitcase. For example, BlueSmart has a built-in GPS that will let you track your suitcase anywhere in the world, so you won’t need to worry about losing your luggage anymore. What’s more, you can easily control the suitcase via a mobile app and the suitcase even has a built-in power bank for your smartphone and other devices, so you also won’t need to purchase any additional power supply for your trips.

On top of all other features, the suitcase also has a built-in scale, so that next time at the airport you will know just how much luggage you have, helping you save on airfare fees. Worried about theft? Nevertheless, the best part about the smart suitcase is the fact that it cost a rather affordable $399, which for a suitcase with that many features is a great price.

Neck Support

One of the accessories you will definitely need for your travel is neck support. If you have slept on a plane or in a vehicle, you are most probably familiar with the neck pain that comes from this experience. While not exactly a gadget, the Trtl Travel Pillow is a nice invention that lets you sleep comfortably be it on a plane, car, train, etc. With a built-in flexible neck support, the pillow can easily be put around your neck like a scarf. You will be able to forget the pain that comes from uncomfortable sleep and you will be able to enjoy your travel experience that much more.

Of course, the Trlt Pillow is not your only option. You might also want to check out accessories such as the Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow that lets your neck breathe, while you are sleeping. Also, there are even neck pillow kits, such as the AERIS Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow Kit that allow you to fully enjoy a comfortable sleep, while on your travels. An interesting pillow, especially if you prefer leaning forward is the Woollip Travel Pillow, which has been developed with the help of physiotherapists and yoga teachers to help deliver a comfortable sleep, while on a road. Whatever the case may be, a Neck Support is a must on your travel accessories list.

Your smartphone has almost everything you need in order to enjoy your time on a road to the fullest. However, even if you own a phablet, you are most probably familiar with the frustration it comes from reading from a smaller device that is in the palm of your hand. If you enjoy reading, then purchasing an E-Reader or a tablet as a travel accessory is a must. There are a number of great options available, depending on what exactly you are searching for in a device. In fact, a nice tablet can further help you enjoy your travels by letting you enjoy a nice movie or a game, while you are traveling.

Most tourists prefer devices such as iPads or E-Readers, such as the Amazon Kindle Voyage, but if you are more of an Android enthusiast, then you might consider purchasing a smaller tablet, such as the 8-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab S2. Whatever the case may be, the E-Reader or Tablet will help you enjoy all the activities you enjoy at home on a larger screen than your smartphone. What’s more, if you have a tablet and you own a keyboard for it, you might go further and finish the tasks you have been putting off for so long. That way you will better enjoy your vacation.

Nevertheless, the aforementioned four gadgets are some of the best on the market and you should definitely own them if you are traveling a lot. With them, you will not only be the most tech-savvy person on your flight, but you will also be able to enjoy your travel time better and you will be able to save up more time for your leisure activities.

Robert Everett: I am a freelance writer currently based in Chicago. Solving students career and university problems. Having interest in marketing and business.
My Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/roberteverett82
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Buying A Piece Of Tech For The Kids: 3 Unmissable Tips To Ensure You Make The Right Choice

December 8, 2016 by Leave a Comment

tablet

You are bound to buy one form of tech for your kids this Christmas. After all, items like iPads and PS4’s are bound to be at the top of their Christmas list. But it’s so important to think carefully before you buy any old tech for your family. You don’t want to buy them something that will get outdated and will need replacing by next Christmas. Or something that has bad reviews and might be faulty. Here are three unmissable tips you need to ensure you make the right decision when buying a piece of tech for the kids.

You need to choose something fairly new

When you are looking for a piece of tech for your kids, you need to choose something that has just come out. For one thing, it will ensure your child isn’t disappointed about not getting a newer model. But also, it’s more likely to last longer than an older model. After all, an older tablet might not get all the latest updates. Therefore, your kid might be asking for a new one by the time Christmas comes around again. And as well as this, if it’s older, you might struggle to find parts if something goes wrong. And you might have to end up buying a new one as it was unable to be fixed! Therefore, make sure you buy a fairly new model for your kids when it comes to tech.

You need to check the reviews before you make a purchase

It’s also important to make sure you read up reviews about the product. After all, you don’t want to buy a piece of tech which is going to break after a few weeks. And you don’t want to choose something which is really hard to use. Therefore, look online and read different reviews before you do make a purchase. Sites similar to http://www.testingteam.net will give you the latest reviews on items. And remember to look online to see if you can get the item somewhere cheaper. That way, you won’t have to break the bank to buy your child the present they want this Christmas.

You need to make sure it’s not easy to break

If your kid is always clumsy, it’s not a good idea to buy them something that could easily break! After all, the screens on the latest tech are not the cheapest to replace. And you could end up spending nearly as much as the item costs! Therefore, make sure you check how easily it can break and find ways to prevent it happening. For example, you might want to get a case for the device which will protect it if it does fall on the floor! Or you ought to insure it so that if something does go wrong, you can easily get it replaced without costing a fortune!

And remember to choose something which is easy to use. Otherwise, your kid might just leave it on the side and not play with it! And check out http://www.makeuseof.com/ for what to do with the old device once your child has a new one for Christmas.

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Laser X: Fun Laser Tag for the Entire Family #laserx

December 7, 2016 by Leave a Comment

Laser X

Laser X is a new laser tag toy that is affordable and can be played inside or outside by kids or adults. Laser x can be played by an unlimited amount of people and allows flexibility for team challenges or a full out rogue laser battle.

The Laser X can kick your family’s game of hide-and-seek up a notch and add a competitive edge that makes it more fun. The typical laser tag session in a professional facility is about $8 per person per game, while others charge for timed sessions. So, a single two-player game of laser tag could cost you about $16. With Laser X’s two player set carrying a $50 price tag, and the one player set even less, that is about the cost of three laser tag sessions, and with Laser X you can play all day, as many days as you want.

Truth be told, initially, I wasn’t really sure what to expect with these laser tag sets. I have seen laser tag sets previously that just didn’t live up to the hype. I am happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised this time!  These are much more durable and tough than I anticipated and have no signs of stopping anytime soon. We got this set, and the 2 piece set for our kids – who love laser tag.

It was a HUGE hit, not only with the kids, but I’ll admit, the adults, too. Not only is the setup super easy, but adding other sets (purchased separately) is a cinch too! So if you are having a huge holiday party with lots of kids or even a birthday party – you want these.

Laser X

Each Laser X set comes with two laser guns and two laser receptor vests. The devices do not come with batteries so parents should plan ahead if purchasing Laser X as a gift. The laser receptor vests are adjustable and look as though they will stay on relatively well.

Parents can purchase these sets for $49.99 through www.getlaserx.com. Consumers who are interested in ordering multiple sets will receive 10% off each additional set purchased through their website. Or you can also purchase the Laser X tag system at Target either online at www.target.com or in stores.

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Laser X delivers in its promise to bring the excitement of laser tag to your home. A generous 200-foot range and competitive pricing make this a compelling option for those searching for laser tag toys.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide 2016, toys Tagged With: , , , ,

How To Know If You Are A Millennial Geek

December 2, 2016 by Leave a Comment

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Since the Millennials have become the dominant generation in the workplace, the cultural impact of their social behavior and their favorite devices is what defines what is now fully accepted as cool by the generations Y and Z. And believe it or not, being a geek is one of the trendiest features you could have. Let’s have a look at their top 5 traits.

You Can’t Live Without Your Phone

Do you find yourself taking pictures of your food or the signs in the shops to share in real time with your best friends? 39% of Millennials engage more with their smartphone than with their friends, family, children, co-workers, and partners. Yet, as they mainly use the device to keep in touch with these same people, we can safely argue that Millennials are always talking to the ones who matter to them. If you find yourself turning to your phone for support in life, the geek force is already strong with you!

You Are A Digital Freelancer

No generation values independence as much as the Millennials do. The Millennial geek goes one step further as he or she has landed the dream job: Freelancing. A freelancer is, as you might have guessed, someone who can look in the mirror every morning and greet the best boss on earth with their bed head smile. The preferred freelancing roles tend to be focused on digital projects, such as web developer, designer, and blogger (or even vlogger for the lovers of video blogs). In short, the freelancer is that trendy person who takes their Macbook to the local coffee shop and works from there all day while slurping delicious coffee. Naturally, this is the glitter image. In truth, freelancing is a combat of every day. Thankfully, there are a few basics to follow to make the freelancing life smoother, https://havesippywilltravel.com/2011/12/laws-that-every-freelancer-should-know.html. But this is a little less true for the geek who can be so talented that clients are queueing up.

You Wonder When Your Favorite Shows Will Be on Netflix

You rely on demand TV to satisfy your appetite for good and original shows. Did you cry when Netflix took Doctor Who off? Are you eager to find out when the show of your heart will be back? By the way if you are anything like me, you will surely enjoy this little read www.netflixupdate.com/when-will-supernatural-season-10-be-on-netflix/ that takes the edge off the long waiting for the next Supernatural season. This is the natural evolution of DVD sets, and the geek is very aware of this low-cost high-quality form of entertainment. So be aware that we don’t talk about watching TV anymore. As a well-equipped geek, you will be watching your favorite series on your favorite screen device, which could be your tablet, your laptop, your TV, or even your phone.

You Embrace Healthy Food

The growing interest in healthy nutrition and organic food has developed new areas of expertise in the population. When in the 1990s healthy diets used to list lettuce and diet soda, the educated geek diets are more diverse nowadays. They can rely on a vegan only approach to food, on careful ketosis calibration, on the addition of healthy alternatives from other cultures, or even on purely free from products (as we can see now with gluten and lactose free diets). It’s not uncommon to find tofu and chia seeds in a geek cupboard, because, contrary to the common beliefs, the Millennial geek loves healthy food more than anything else.

You Are Socially Awkward

The image of geeks has changed. If you remember the 1990s, the geek was generally represented as an overweight man who wore thick glasses and was too shy to talk to girls. Stop. Wake up now. This is a cliché. Geeks have a tendency to behave awkwardly in social events for a variety of good reasons: They are so qualified in a highly specialist subject that they find it difficult to discuss more common topics such as the weather or pop music; being freelancers they don’t share the normal 9-to-5 routine and therefore don’t understand any office-related discussions; they spend so much time communicating via digital forms that they are not sure how to send smileys IRL.

So, be honest with yourself, how much of a geek are you? Being a geek is representative of the Millennials generation, but don’t feel sorry if you don’t score high on the scale. Not everybody’s charm relies on social awkwardness!

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Epson Ultra bright home theater projector #ad @BestBuy @EpsonAmerica

September 26, 2016 by 8 Comments

Disclosure. The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service for free.

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Want a big screen for those sporting events or TV specials to share with your friends and family? Why not look into the new Epson Cinema 1440 Ultra Bright projector- it’s really something special.  This projector sports some stellar features like: 3LCD 3 chip technology, which gives you 3 times the brightness for colors that pop. It also has the reliability to outperform other projectors with brilliant true to life color.  These colors are supported by 4400 lumens white brightness and color brightness to make your favorite movies jump off the screen. With + 30 degree vertical and +- 20 degree horizontal correction, distortion is a thing of the past.

The projected distance on this bad boy is up to 25′ and it has 1.6 optical zoom which lets you pick your screen size for optimal viewing either in your home or even projected in your backyard for a night under the stars.  With the USB connection and 2 HDMI inputs it is easy to pump any media you’d like to the projector, including PC and Mac based media or video game consoles and cable boxes for a truly mammoth viewing experience.  If this is going to be your all in one home viewer, there is also a 16W speaker build in to give you robust sound right from the projector.

The Epson Ultra Bright conquers many of the pitfalls of other projectors with its ultra brightness, which lets colors shine. Whites are brighter as well, giving the viewer or viewers a clear stunning picture without a washed out look.  What we really like about this projector is is portability and self contained entertainment center quality.  With the ability to simply plug in a USB drive and watch any video anywhere, there is a flat white surface and an outlet this opens up a ton of possibilities for all your entertainment needs.

The Epson Ultra Bright is available in a Best Buy store near you or online.

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