Monday, June 03, 2024

Hallelujah - Disklavier app for my Mark IV working again!

I noticed an update to the Disklavier controller app for iPhone and Mark IV today.  This update notification came on a version  I had loaded on my MacBook Pro with M1 chip.  When I checked on my iPhone the app wasn't listed as an update. So, I deleted the app from my iPhone and then searched for it on the application app for iPhone and reloaded it. 

I was excited that the app loaded with the screen to allow for searching for my piano.  Unfortunately, the search didn't work after a minute or so.  

I then re-booted my piano and that didn't work either. 

Then I noticed that the AirPort Express connecting my piano to my router was blinking yellow. So I unplugged the AirPort Express and waited a few minutes. and replugged it in.  It turned green.

I then shut down my Mark IV and restarted it so it could connect.

That worked!  I now can control my piano again from my iPhone.


 

Friday, August 18, 2023

"The Great Library Debate: Uncovering the Surprising Reasons Behind their Elimination!"

 What are the reasons and thinking behind eliminating libraries?

While the idea of eliminating libraries is not universally accepted, there are a few arguments often brought up by those who advocate for it. 


1. Digital Age: With the advent of the internet and digital books, many people believe that physical libraries are becoming obsolete. Information is readily available online, and e-books can be downloaded from the comfort of home.

2. Cost: Maintaining a library can be expensive. This includes not only purchasing new materials but also paying for staff, building maintenance, and utilities. Some argue that these funds could be better used elsewhere, especially in areas where budgets are tight.

3. Space: Libraries take up physical space that could potentially be used for other purposes. In densely populated cities, this space might be particularly valuable.

4. Utilization: Some people argue that libraries are not being used as much as they used to be. With many resources available online, fewer people may be visiting libraries.

5. Accessibility: While libraries are generally seen as accessible to everyone, this isn't always the case. Hours of operation may not be convenient for everyone, and those who live in rural areas may have to travel long distances to reach the nearest library.

6. Efficiency: Some believe that the private sector could handle the provision of books and other resources more efficiently than a public library system. This could potentially lead to better service and more up-to-date resources.

7. Technological Advancement: The rapid growth of technology has made information and resources more accessible than ever before. Many people now have access to e-books, online databases, and other digital resources, eliminating the need for traditional libraries.

8. Changing Reading Habits: With the rise of digital media, people's reading habits have significantly changed. Many prefer reading e-books or listening to audiobooks, which can be accessed from anywhere without the need for a physical library.

9. Redundancy: Some argue that libraries have become redundant in the face of modern technology. They believe that most services offered by libraries can be found online or in other community spaces.

10. Resource Allocation: Critics argue that the resources used to maintain libraries could be better spent on other vital community services such as health care, education, or infrastructure.


It's important to note that while these reasons are often cited, many people still strongly support the existence of libraries due to their role in promoting literacy, providing access to resources for those who cannot afford them, and serving as community centers.

Monday, July 31, 2023

My New Best Friend - a Robot Vacuum ... Roborock S8 Pro Ultra


 I've been testing a Roborock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum.  So far, I have found it does a great job of vacuuming my hardwood floors and carpets.  The mop is something I will use on occasion. It works nicely, getting most spots up after each additonal mopping session.  

It took a while to figure out some of the Roborock apps features. The support team has been exceptional when I had a question, offering solutions and solid answers to my concerns.

I ran the vacuum in test situations and was able to find best solutions for my cleaning and home layouts.

I have found that there are many options for cleaning: Full Clean Mode, Room, Zone, multi-level and spot cleaning. Not to mention, the No Go Zones.  I really like the Zone cleaning option as it has provided a nice solution for handling my oriental rug fringes and other areas of my home. It is also fun to operate; I feel like I have my own land drone.  


As, with most equipment, there is some maintenance like cleaning the hair out of brushes, dusting off camera lens and sensors. It only takes a few minutes of time and is much easier than maintaining my central vac brushes.  I use a new soft makeup brush to gently clean the cameras, sensors.  The rollers come out super easy and the ends come off without a problem, then I slip off the roll of hair. As I do more vacuum sessions, there is less dust in the bin and less hair or strings in the roller ends.  

My testing allowed me to figure out how to operate the joystick, the Pin and Go, Selecting and Using Zone cleaning by sizing and positioning a rectangle on an area I wanted to vac or mop or both. Practice, does make it easier and tests my methods for small areas, fringed rugs, and cleaning just an area like under a table or a high traffic area.  

I am very pleased so far with my purchase. I have vacuumed a three level home twice while testing the various layouts in my home.  At my age, it is not easy to keep up with cleaning routines. This vac has been fun and efficient and doing a great job.  


Overall, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum has proven to be an excellent addition to my home cleaning routine. It performs well on both hardwood floors and carpets and offers a variety of cleaning options, including Full Clean Mode, Room, Zone, multi-level, and spot cleaning. The No Go Zones and Zone cleaning features are particularly useful for handling delicate areas like oriental rug fringes.

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is an excellent investment for those who need assistance in maintaining a clean home. It provides an enjoyable and efficient way to keep your living space spotless while offering convenience and ease of use.