Sunday, February 10, 2008

ipod-Rabbit integration

Close-up of ipod mounted beside car stereo 

I used the Brodit mounting system aka ProClip in the USA. The system consists of two pieces: a mount custom-fitted for your car, and a cradle customized for your device. The mount installs in 1 minute just by snapping it on to your dash, and it doesn't leave any permanent mark. The cradle attaches to the mount using two screws. The ipod can slide up and out of the cradle so I can easily take it with me when I park.

 

The ipod integrates with the car stereo using the Dice i-VW-R VW Adapter. A standard ipod connector plus into the ipod, and the wire runs through the back of the glove compartment to the Dice i-VW-R box tucked behind the stereo. The i-VW-R then connects to the stereo using the CD changer interface. It also includes a similarly wired aux. mini input in case my passenger has a non-ipod music player.

 

Saturday, February 02, 2008

Everyone knows about fake software, DVDs, watches and designer handbags. But did you know that counterfeit Gillette razor blades are also a huge problem?

The Is it Counterfeit? guide from fakeblades.com can help you check the authenticity of your Gillette shaving product.

Here are some tell-tale signs of fakery from the site:

  • Blades obtained through reputable retail channels like wal-mart or amazon.com are probably genuine. However, be suspicious of blades sold by third-parties, especially on ebay.
  • Check that each cartridge in the pack has a unique serial number (!) Counterfeiters often don't bother to imprint serial numbers, or use a larger, cheaper to print font that don't match the official Gillette format (1 letter followed by 4 number and then 1 letter, for example B9083H)
  • Look closely for signs of poor cartridge quality, like loose, unaligned or dull blades. Other reported signs of counterfeiting include blades covered in rust (!) or hair fibers (!!)
  • Examine the quality of the packaging. Does it look like it was sealed by hand (irregular glue patterns) or in a manufacturing environment? Compare the quality of the printing and colors on the box to a known-good specimen.

Go to the washroom and check your blades right now! I did.