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Apeman 4K action cam, wool jackets, wool socks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns

This week we are bringing you seven crowdfunding campaigns that are currently running on Kickstarter and Indiegogo. This week’s campaigns are for people who like wool, action cams, tiny computers, and more. Check out our picks for this week’s notable crowdfunding campaigns.

ONEMERINOS – The World’s Best Travel & Business Socks!

What is it?
ONEMERINOS are socks made of 80% Merino wool.

Why do I like it?
I am swiftly becoming interested in Merino wool for the fact that you can wear garments made of this material multiple times before you need to wash them. Merino wool is also anti-stink, and antibacterial. ONEMERINOS claims that you can wear one pair of their socks for a whole week before you will need to wash them. That means less packing for travel.

Where can I find more info?
The ONEMERINOS campaign ends on 6/22/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $11,933. You can pre-order ONEMERINOS socks starting at $29 for 2 pair. After the ONEMERINOS campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in July 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

TRAWO by APEMAN -The Ultimate 4K Action Camera

blurb by Julian Perry

What is it?
The Apeman Trawo Action Camera is a 4K compact capable action cam.

Why do I like it?
I like the Apeman Trawo because it is a full-featured action camera, capable of video resolutions of 4K@30fps, 2K@60fps, and 1080P@120fps. It can also take 12MP photos. It also comes with a waterproof case that makes it great for underwater videos and photos, and it includes many other great features.

I did receive a pre-production model of this camera, and it seems to be well built. The setup was quick and easy once you select the language of your choice. In addition to the option for video and photos, there is also an option for time-lapse. The camera feels well built, and the waterproof case is also well constructed and seems to create a nice watertight seal. The package includes several GoPro style mounts, to support flexibility when mounting for action and adventure footage, including multiple mounts that can attach to a 1/4″-20mm stud. The mounts with the 1/4″-20mm threads are great for attaching the camera to tripods, and even waterproof monopods for underwater footage. The built-in ports include a micro USB port, a micro SD card port, a headphone jack, etc. There is also an app that is available to control the functions of the camera, including the ability to view live footage.

Where can I find more info?
The TRAWO campaign ends in a month and they just launched today and are well on their way towards their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a TRAWO starting at $89. After the TRAWO campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in June 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

D-Cache: Dynamite-sized Storage Container

What is it?
The D-Cache is a large dynamite shaped virtually indescribable storage top made of aluminum.

Why do I like it?
I like the D-Cache because it’s larger than most cache tubes and you won’t lose it due to the bright red color. I also like that they plan to offer caps with built-in functionality like a compass, glass breaker, magnet, lanyard attachment, and more. The D-Cache also has a cute feature with the dynamite fuse that you can switch from different colors to remind you what is stored inside the tube.

Where can I find more info?
The D-Cache campaign ends on 6/8/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $4,000. You can pre-order a D-Cache starting at $17. After the D-Cache campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Half Century Coat | An Almost Indestructible Wool Coat

blurb by Andy Jacobs

What is it?
The Half Century Coat is basically an old-school, plaid lumberjack-type heavy flannel shirt/jacket that is upgraded to probably be more durable than anything else in your wardrobe.

Why do I like it?
Spindle Collective’s Half Century Coat may look like a simple heavy flannel shirt, but it is more. Made from reinforced American wool, it is 6x stronger than cotton, anti-microbial, odor resistant, moisture-wicking, and fully breathable. Its cut is a custom, form-fitting taper with a slimming, tailored look, yet still has a true unisex fit. The Spindle Collective folks are claiming their Half Century Coat has a 50+ year durability (hence the clever name). It’s available in three plaid color patterns: red, blue, and white and each is hand serial-numbered. This is not your grandfather’s flannel shirt. Not by a long shot.

Where can I find more info?
The Half Century Coat campaign ends on June 3, 2018. To date, over 450 backers have pledged nearly $65,000, well beyond the $10,000 funding goal. Pledge packages start at $99. Visit the Half Century Coat Kickstarter campaign site for more info or to become a backer.

Rollux: The Most Versatile 2-in-1 Suitcase Around

What is it?
Rollux is a carry-on bag that transforms into a full-sized suitcase when you need extra space during your travels.

Why do I like it?
I like the Rollux because it’s like having two travel bags in one. A small 15.7 inch tall carry-on bag and a 33.4 inch tall large rolling suitcase. I also like that it has built-in USB port for device charging capability with an included power bank. Some rewards even have GPS capability so you can track your bags.

Where can I find more info?
The Rollux campaign ends on 6/12/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $50,000. You can pre-order a Rollux starting at $249. After the Rollux campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

DashPal – 24×7 Protection for Your Car & Driver

What is it?
DashPal is a dashcam, a car health sensor, and a car tracking sensor all in one.

Why do I like it?
I like the DashPal because it combines 3 car gadgets into one. You get a dashcam with 170-degree field of view and crash detection. You also get an OBDI adapter like the Automatic which automatically tracks driving style and trip data. And lastly, you get car health sensor that will tell you what that check engine light means on your dash.

Where can I find more info?
The DashPal campaign ends on 6/1/18 and they are getting close to meeting their funding goal of $35,000. You can pre-order a DashPal starting at $145. After the DashPal campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in June 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Mini PC

What is it?
The Mini PC is just what you’d guess. It’s a Windows PC in a mini-sized form factor.

Why do I like it?
The Mini PC reminds me a lot of the DualCor CPC that Judie tested 12 years ago! I’m not really sure that there’s a need for the Mini PC since you can buy a perfectly serviceable ultralight laptop or Chromebook which has a larger display, a keyboard and trackpad. That said, I can’t help but be interested in gadgets like this one because it reminds me of the handheld PCs of years ago and how exciting it was to cram a Windows PC into your pocket.

Where can I find more info?
The Mini PC campaign ends on 6/1/18 and they have met their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a Mini PC starting at $149. After the Mini PC campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

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Apeman 4K action cam, wool jackets, wool socks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 15, 2018 at 5:13 pm.

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Apeman 4K action cam, wool jackets, wool socks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns

This week we are bringing you seven crowdfunding campaigns that are currently running on Kickstarter and Indiegogo. This week’s campaigns are for people who like wool, action cams, tiny computers, and more. Check out our picks for this week’s notable crowdfunding campaigns.

ONEMERINOS – The World’s Best Travel & Business Socks!

What is it?
ONEMERINOS are socks made of 80% Merino wool.

Why do I like it?
I am swiftly becoming interested in Merino wool for the fact that you can wear garments made of this material multiple times before you need to wash them. Merino wool is also anti-stink, and antibacterial. ONEMERINOS claims that you can wear one pair of their socks for a whole week before you will need to wash them. That means less packing for travel.

Where can I find more info?
The ONEMERINOS campaign ends on 6/22/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $11,933. You can pre-order ONEMERINOS socks starting at $29 for 2 pair. After the ONEMERINOS campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in July 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

TRAWO by APEMAN -The Ultimate 4K Action Camera

blurb by Julian Perry

What is it?
The Apeman Trawo Action Camera is a 4K compact capable action cam.

Why do I like it?
I like the Apeman Trawo because it is a full-featured action camera, capable of video resolutions of 4K@30fps, 2K@60fps, and 1080P@120fps. It can also take 12MP photos. It also comes with a waterproof case that makes it great for underwater videos and photos, and it includes many other great features.

I did receive a pre-production model of this camera, and it seems to be well built. The setup was quick and easy once you select the language of your choice. In addition to the option for video and photos, there is also an option for time-lapse. The camera feels well built, and the waterproof case is also well constructed and seems to create a nice watertight seal. The package includes several GoPro style mounts, to support flexibility when mounting for action and adventure footage, including multiple mounts that can attach to a 1/4″-20mm stud. The mounts with the 1/4″-20mm threads are great for attaching the camera to tripods, and even waterproof monopods for underwater footage. The built-in ports include a micro USB port, a micro SD card port, a headphone jack, etc. There is also an app that is available to control the functions of the camera, including the ability to view live footage.

Where can I find more info?
The TRAWO campaign ends in a month and they just launched today and are well on their way towards their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a TRAWO starting at $89. After the TRAWO campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in June 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

D-Cache: Dynamite-sized Storage Container

What is it?
The D-Cache is a large dynamite shaped virtually indescribable storage top made of aluminum.

Why do I like it?
I like the D-Cache because it’s larger than most cache tubes and you won’t lose it due to the bright red color. I also like that they plan to offer caps with built-in functionality like a compass, glass breaker, magnet, lanyard attachment, and more. The D-Cache also has a cute feature with the dynamite fuse that you can switch from different colors to remind you what is stored inside the tube.

Where can I find more info?
The D-Cache campaign ends on 6/8/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $4,000. You can pre-order a D-Cache starting at $17. After the D-Cache campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Half Century Coat | An Almost Indestructible Wool Coat

blurb by Andy Jacobs

What is it?
The Half Century Coat is basically an old-school, plaid lumberjack-type heavy flannel shirt/jacket that is upgraded to probably be more durable than anything else in your wardrobe.

Why do I like it?
Spindle Collective’s Half Century Coat may look like a simple heavy flannel shirt, but it is more. Made from reinforced American wool, it is 6x stronger than cotton, anti-microbial, odor resistant, moisture-wicking, and fully breathable. Its cut is a custom, form-fitting taper with a slimming, tailored look, yet still has a true unisex fit. The Spindle Collective folks are claiming their Half Century Coat has a 50+ year durability (hence the clever name). It’s available in three plaid color patterns: red, blue, and white and each is hand serial-numbered. This is not your grandfather’s flannel shirt. Not by a long shot.

Where can I find more info?
The Half Century Coat campaign ends on June 3, 2018. To date, over 450 backers have pledged nearly $65,000, well beyond the $10,000 funding goal. Pledge packages start at $99. Visit the Half Century Coat Kickstarter campaign site for more info or to become a backer.

Rollux: The Most Versatile 2-in-1 Suitcase Around

What is it?
Rollux is a carry-on bag that transforms into a full-sized suitcase when you need extra space during your travels.

Why do I like it?
I like the Rollux because it’s like having two travel bags in one. A small 15.7 inch tall carry-on bag and a 33.4 inch tall large rolling suitcase. I also like that it has built-in USB port for device charging capability with an included power bank. Some rewards even have GPS capability so you can track your bags.

Where can I find more info?
The Rollux campaign ends on 6/12/18 and they’ve already met their funding goal of $50,000. You can pre-order a Rollux starting at $249. After the Rollux campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

DashPal – 24×7 Protection for Your Car & Driver

What is it?
DashPal is a dashcam, a car health sensor, and a car tracking sensor all in one.

Why do I like it?
I like the DashPal because it combines 3 car gadgets into one. You get a dashcam with 170-degree field of view and crash detection. You also get an OBDI adapter like the Automatic which automatically tracks driving style and trip data. And lastly, you get car health sensor that will tell you what that check engine light means on your dash.

Where can I find more info?
The DashPal campaign ends on 6/1/18 and they are getting close to meeting their funding goal of $35,000. You can pre-order a DashPal starting at $145. After the DashPal campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in June 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Mini PC

What is it?
The Mini PC is just what you’d guess. It’s a Windows PC in a mini-sized form factor.

Why do I like it?
The Mini PC reminds me a lot of the DualCor CPC that Judie tested 12 years ago! I’m not really sure that there’s a need for the Mini PC since you can buy a perfectly serviceable ultralight laptop or Chromebook which has a larger display, a keyboard and trackpad. That said, I can’t help but be interested in gadgets like this one because it reminds me of the handheld PCs of years ago and how exciting it was to cram a Windows PC into your pocket.

Where can I find more info?
The Mini PC campaign ends on 6/1/18 and they have met their funding goal of $20,000. You can pre-order a Mini PC starting at $149. After the Mini PC campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

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Apeman 4K action cam, wool jackets, wool socks, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 15, 2018 at 5:13 pm.

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Protect your Apple Watch from drops with this Catalyst

This Impact Protection Case from Catalyst protects your Apple Watch with an “innovative truss cushioning system combined with a proprietary rubber polymer blend to increase the drop specification to 9.9ft/3m (only for corners drops).  This drop protection meets Military standard 810G.

The case covers the Watch’s case and incorporates Catalyst’s patented digital crown button to protect the button, unlike many other Watch cases I’ve seen.  There’s even a cover for the side button and a bezel to protect the screen.  The case doesn’t interfere with any functions of the Watch, including charging.

The Impact Protection Case is available for the 38mm Series 2 and 3 Watch and the 42mm Series 2 and 3 Watch in black/space gray, blueridge/sunset, army green, or coral for $39.99 at the Catalyst website.

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Protect your Apple Watch from drops with this Catalyst originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 15, 2018 at 12:00 pm.

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SparkMaker Mini Desktop SLA 3D printer review

I know nothing about 3D printing, except for little models my son has brought home from summer “tech” camps. This tiny desktop 3D printer caught my eye, and only required an SD card for printing. Pretty slick, right? Let’s take a look.

What is it?

The SparkMaker is billed as a compact, user-friendly desktop 3D printer that doesn’t use the usual filament to “build” models. Instead, it uses a liquid resin to build “up”, and UV lights under the vat harden the model slice by slice. A motorized platform raises the model up from the goo, sort of like the T-1000 Terminator from the second movie.

Hardware specs

  • Height:  10 inches
  • Width: 6.7 inches diameter
  • Print size: 4 x 2.2 x 5 inches

What’s in the box?

My sample came with just the power supply, hex wrench, and red cover. The resin (LCD-T) and some dyes were shipped separately.

Design and features

There is no screen on the printer. The only user interface is a single round knob on the front with an LED ring. There’s not even a power on/off switch.

A very long screw extends from the base of the printer. This moves the silver metal platform up and down. The metal platform has no “smarts”. Its only holds the model upside down.

Setup

There is a Windows program called SparkStudio where your’e supposedly able to edit files, but I was unable to get it to work. Fortunately, there were several sample 3D files to download. They’re all in “print.wow” file format, which you simply drag and drop to an SD card. The printer recognizes nothing else.

Next, you pour the resin into the vat. Don’t spill any. This is nasty, sticky stuff. I wasn’t exactly sure how much to pour in so I just guessed.

For my print sample, I chose this stout little head. What could go wrong?

The SD card inserts under the button (upside down, mind you).

Is it working? The flashing red circle says it’s working. That’s it!

Performance

If you’re looking for Star Trek replicator speed, forget it. At first, I thought the printer was dead, as the light blinked red. However, the platform did move ever so slowly, as the cooling fan hummed away at the base of the printer.

The fan noise isn’t too unpleasant. It’s similar to a noisy laptop at full load. Here you’ll see the UV lights blasting away through the ventilation holes.

A few hours later, I could see the printed objects “rising” from the primordial goo.

About 4-5 hours later I had two tiny little heads. Two? Apparently, the file was set for two, and I had no way to change that as far as I could figure out.

Next, I scraped off the heads from the metal platform and gave them an alcohol bath…

…And let the bask in the California sun to cure under some UV light.

And here are my two heads. Two heads are better than one, right? They sure turned out smaller than I expected. That’s an AA battery for size comparison. They remind me of novelty guitar knobs.

What I like

Very small and compact. Zero computer skills necessary with the SD card interface.

What needs to be improved

This product is not for first timers. I could not figure out how to edit, find, or upload any other 3D models. This is probably due to my lack of experience in 3D modeling, but the printed documentation is poor which does not impart confidence. Also, liquid resin is just nasty to handle.

Final thoughts

From what I understand, this type of 3D printing provides a higher degree of precision and the SparkMaker is quite a price breakthrough for this medium. Some of the filament-printed things I’ve seen look completely rough-hewn compared to the twin heads I printed for the first time. If you’re a hobbyist in this field and you’re not afraid to dig deeper, the SparkMaker SLA 3D Printer might just whip something up good for you.

Price: $289
Where to buy: OGadget or Amazon
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Ogadget.

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SparkMaker Mini Desktop SLA 3D printer review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 15, 2018 at 10:00 am.

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Knockaround G. I. Joe Premiums are real American eyewear

As a Child of the 80s I grew up watching such animated TV classics as The Transformers and Thundercats. But due to its roots way back in the early 1960s, one show transcended them all and became an American pop-culture icon—G. I. Joe: A Real American Hero! I was totally stoked to stumble upon these awesome G. I. Joe Premiums shades from Knockaround. With their matte woodland camo frames and red, white and blue striping on the arms, they are a fitting homage to the epic battles between the G. I. Joe team and evil terrorist Cobra Command. These shades have orange mirrored polarized lenses and UV400 sun protection. Also included is a custom G. I. Joe sunglasses box, a microfiber drawstring storage pouch with images of G. I. Joe First Sergeant Duke and Cobra Commander, a G. I. Joe 1st issue comic collector’s card and a Knockaround logo sticker. These G. I. Joe Premiums shades are available for $30. Deploy your troops to knockaround.com for more info or to order.

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Knockaround G. I. Joe Premiums are real American eyewear originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 15, 2018 at 9:00 am.

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