Latest news with #MIL-SPEC
UPI
3 days ago
- UPI
Debunking 5 myths about when your devices get wet
Nearly everyone has encountered the unthinkable: Your smartphone landed in the toilet. Or you forgot to take off your smartwatch before jumping into the pool. Or maybe you meant to take those earbuds out of your pocket before running the laundry. What now? Internet forums are chock-full of advice to dry out that drenched device, but problematic myths about liquid protection and repair make it hard for consumers to separate fact from fiction. I'm a researcher who studies how technologies play a part in people's everyday practices and experiences. My new book, License to Spill: Where Dry Devices Meet Liquid Lives, explores the wet-dry boundary in how people perceive and treat their electronic devices. Here are five common myths about getting devices wet: Myth 1: My device turned back on! It's fine While it's a relief to see your technology rise from the dead, what you can't see are subtle processes occurring inside, like corrosion. The breakdown of your device's metal parts due to moisture often happens over time, in a period that can take place days, weeks or months after the offending incident. That's why even humidity from moist climates or your steamy shower can make a long-term impact, despite the fact that everything booted up right away after a splash or dunk. Myth 2: My 'waterproof' device can tolerate any kind of wetness The term "waterproof" is a controversial one -- so controversial, in fact, that the Federal Trade Commission has strict rules about using the term in advertising, once even banning it from ad copy selling wristwatches. Given the vagueness of the term, it's better to examine different water resistance standards, such as ingress protection, or IP, ratings and MIL-SPEC or ISO in the case of watches, and to read the fine print about what those standards actually cover. Myth 3: My device has a great IP rating, so it's been tested under real-world conditions Companies often advertise IP ratings as a way to entice consumers to purchase their products, but it's important to know that these ratings are based on contact with fresh water. If you're worried about Jacuzzi suds or that tipped-over can of beer, there's no guarantee that a manufacturer has tested your device in these -- often sticky -- situations, and an IP rating won't account for them. Myth 4: I've got some rice in the kitchen. I can fix this myself! It's natural to panic and seek out the quickest household solution when a spill or dunk happens, and a cup of rice is still a commonly sought-out option. However, the rice hack doesn't work very well, and rice particles can enter the device to cause even further damage. Aside from bringing your device to a professional repairer, you're better off immediately powering down your product, removing its battery and plug if you can, and letting all the components dry over a day or two. Myth 5: Well, this device is broken, but I've got a warranty to replace it While you're pulling your product from its watery grave, you might find relief in the fact that it came with a warranty. Not so fast. Most traditional consumer technology limited warranties don't cover liquid damage. These days, you usually need to purchase an add-on warranty, often called Accidental Damage from Handling. Beware, though: Even those policies may limit how many wetness "incidents" or "events" you're allowed per year. Keeping it realistic Water resistance features on devices like laptops, tablets, smartphones and smartwatches have recently improved, but the deck is still often stacked against consumers who must wade through the hype of advertising claims, mystifying classification systems and penalizing policies. That's why it's critical for manufacturers to think carefully and ethically about how their products are designed, marketed and serviced. In terms of design, water resistance is no longer a niche feature meant solely for industrial workers or outdoor adventurers. While it's unrealistic to expect a device that's designed to resist every hazard, it's also unreasonable to ask consumers to tiptoe around the products that provide them with access to critical resources and social support. It's important for manufacturers to avoid promising consumers the Moon. Samsung Australia, for instance, paid AU$14 million in penalties for exaggerating its phones' protection for swimming. It's certainly fun to watch commercials with Lil Wayne spraying a smartphone with champagne or see him dunk it in a fish tank, but if manufacturers are advising against these practices, then they shouldn't be romanticizing them. Sure, it's probably common sense that your phone shouldn't take a bath in champagne. Yet life is constantly happening around - and with - our devices, from the shower and the kitchen to the gym and the beach. This means that fairer policies around repair, like those promoted by the right-to-repair movement, and warranties should stop treating consumers like they're "bad" users. After all, we're each just one splash away from crying over spilled milk. Rachel Plotnick is an associate professor of cinema and media studies at Indiana University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.
Mid East Info
23-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Fischer KEYSTONE tactical hub ensures seamless connectivity and interoperability of soldiers' digital equipment with expanded cable range
Fischer Connectors' Swiss-engineered MIL-SPEC solution features an expanded portfolio of cables compatible with Nett Warrior and NATO STANAG 4695/4851 interfaces via Fischer UltiMate 80 connectors. It offers a competitive solution in line with the U.S. Army's Next Generation Hub (NGH) specifications. The new general-purpose, power, radio, EUD, and device cables enable plug-and-play connectivity, compatibility, and interoperability within the battlefield management ecosystem. Olivier Thormann, Product Manager at Fischer Connectors for Fischer KEYSTONE, shares feedback from customers worldwide who have field-tested the Swiss power and data hub: 'Soldiers say it is reliable and simple and does exactly what it's expected to do. They already know how to use it – they clip it on, plug it in, and it just works.' The reliability and ease of use of Fischer KEYSTONE are complemented by enhanced interoperability and advanced device integration capabilities. Since its launch in March 2023, Fischer Connectors' R&D team has developed several new cable options designed to support seamless connectivity, improved ergonomics, and multi-device interoperability for dismounted operations within the Nett Warrior compatibility environment. The cable catalog offers options for integrating EUDs, batteries, radio systems, and devices such as helmet cameras and target acquisition or range-finding systems into soldier-worn gear. It delivers a comprehensive tactical connectivity solution tailored to the rigorous demands of modern warfare. 'KEYSTONE meets the growing demand for easy, reliable connectivity and interoperability of soldier-worn digital equipment in dynamic operational environments,' says Thormann. 'Our cable portfolio addresses essential tactical connectivity needs by combining lean ergonomics with the seamless integration of key devices and C4ISR communication systems. Customers trust Fischer Connectors' hubs as robust plug-and-play solutions that enable real-time communication, intelligence gathering, and precision engagement.' Cables/connectors developed for the Fischer KEYSTONE™ Tactical Hub come in four categories: 1. General purpose, 2. Radio, 3. EUD, 4. Devices. The expanded lineup of standard and customizable cable assemblies compatible with Nett Warrior and NATO STANAG 4695/4851 standards includes extensions, adapters, and interconnects across four categories: • General purpose cables: USB 2.0, RS-232, Ethernet, Nett Warrior type and BB-2590 batteries, right-angle overmolded cable options• Radio cables: Silvus, Bittium, L3 Harris, DTC CODAN, Thales• EUD cables: Standard USB-C right-angle assemblies compatible with Juggernaut cases • Devices cables: Designed for the MOHOC® 2 IP Camera and Safran Vectronix's target acquisition and range-finding systems (PLRF25C, MOSKITO TI, STERNA True North Finder), among others available upon request. KEYSTONE cable assemblies can be customized to meet specific requirements. 'Customization is one of our company's core strengths,' says Thormann. 'Our technical teams collaborate closely with customers to ensure our solutions align precisely with their operational needs and expectations.' The Fischer UltiMate™ 80 Nett Warrior-compatible product line has been expanded with a panel plug (front right). Fischer UltiMate 80: the complete range of Nett Warrior-compatible connectors The Fischer UltiMate 80 connectors used for KEYSTONE are the Nett Warrior-compatible connectors from Fischer Connectors' flagship series of ultra-rugged, MIL-SPEC connectors: the Fischer UltiMate Series. The UltiMate 80 product line has recently been extended to include a new panel plug. This completes a product offering capable of meeting all the integration needs of users seeking products that operate in the most demanding environments. The Fischer KEYSTONE™ Tactical Hub connects soldier digital equipment to manage flows of data and power efficiently and easily. A competitive edge in Soldier Modernization Available with 4 or 6 ports, Fischer Connectors' Swiss-engineered KEYSTONE hub offers a competitive, ready-to-deploy solution in line with the specifications of the U.S. Army's Next Generation Hub (NGH). Designed for simplicity and efficiency, KEYSTONE enables soldiers to manage data and power flows across sights, sensors, night vision devices, radios, and other digital equipment. It keeps teams and commanders connected, powering mission-critical devices while supporting real-time situational awareness and faster decision-making in dynamic operational environments. Fischer KEYSTONE supports USB 2.0 and SMBus data channels, along with power distribution of up to 100 W (5 A max) – all through a lightweight, ergonomic interface. An intuitive power management app is included in Fischer KEYSTONE 6, available either as a standalone application or as an ATAK plug-in on the soldier's EUD. Built with Fischer Connectors' proven MIL-SPEC technologies, KEYSTONE delivers rugged durability, compact form factor and IP68 sealing. It is a comprehensive connectivity platform that meets the demanding requirements of soldier modernization initiatives, including U.S. Army 2030.
Yahoo
07-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dynabook Unveils Premium Copilot+PC Laptop with Alloy Chassis Weighing Under 1kg
With a durable MIL-SPEC alloy chassis and user-serviceable battery, the 14-inch Portégé Z40L-Nwith Copilot+ fosters AI-boosted productivity and fortifies data with powerful and convenientsecurity IRVINE, Calif., March 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dynabook Americas, Inc. the gold standard for long-lasting, professional-grade laptops, today unveiled the Portégé Z40L-N, an ultra-lightweight Copilot+PC business laptop built to maximize productivity, security, and mobility. Weighing under 1kg1, the Z40L-N integrates the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra processors (Series 2) with four-times more powerful Neural Processing Unit (NPU)2 for AI acceleration, Wi-Fi 7, Intel® Arc™ Graphics, and vibrant 14-inch 16:10 display all within a highly durable MIL-SPEC magnesium alloy chassis. As a Copilot+PC laptop, the Portégé Z40L-N empowers business professionals with a suite of AI-enhanced features designed to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and improve efficiency. Live Captions automatically transcribes audio into text on the screen in real-time, allowing users to read captions for any audio playing on their computer. Dynabook's exclusive Gesture Control enables touch-free navigation, allowing professionals to switch slides, control media, and navigate presentations with simple hand gestures. Windows Studio Effects uses AI to automatically enhance video calls with background blur, auto-lighting adjustments, and eye contact correction—ensuring a professional on-screen presence in any environment. Human Presence Detection features use AI to automatically lock the screen when the user steps away and wake upon return and Peek Alert provides alerts when prying eyes are detected. By leveraging on-device AI acceleration, these features enable business users to work more effectively, reduce distractions, and maximize productivity in a rapidly evolving digital workplace. "Businesses today demand smarter, more efficient computing solutions that keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital workplace. The Portégé Z40L-N represents a new era of AI-powered business laptops—one that not only enhances productivity but also redefines how professionals interact with technology," said James Robbins, General Manager, Dynabook Americas, Inc. AI-Optimized Performance for Business At the heart of the Portégé Z40L-N is Intel's Core Ultra processor (Series 2), equipped with a powerful new NPU that accelerates AI workloads directly on device, ensuring faster processing, enhanced efficiency, and better security. With Intel® Arc™ Graphics, the laptop delivers smooth visuals and AI-powered performance enhancements, making it ideal for data analysis, video conferencing, and content creation. The AI-enhanced power management system dynamically adjusts battery consumption based on applications used, allowing for hours of unplugged video conferencing and all-day productivity. A self-replaceable battery extends the laptop's lifespan, reducing IT costs and downtime for businesses. "By harnessing numerous productivity- and performance-focused applications for edge AI in our latest systems, Dynabook is empowering organizations with unparalleled intelligence, security, and mobility. We're dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation to ensure our customers stay ahead in an increasingly intelligent world," Robbins continued. Built for Business Mobility Designed for professionals who require durability without compromise, the Portégé Z40L-N is housed in a magnesium alloy chassis that meets MIL-STD-810H standards, ensuring resilience against drops, shocks, and extreme conditions. Despite its thin and ultra-light form factor, the laptop delivers full-size connectivity, including USB-C/Thunderbolt™ 4, HDMI, and USB-A ports, eliminating the need for adapters for maximum convenience. Smarter, More Secure Workflows As a Microsoft Secured-core PC, the Portégé Z40L-N prioritizes enterprise-grade security with chip-to-cloud protection, safeguarding sensitive data while enhancing user convenience. Designed to proactively defend against security threats, the device features Peek Alert, which detects unauthorized onlookers and allows users to instantly block the screen with a simple hotkey. Presence Detection automatically locks the laptop when the user steps away and wakes it upon return, reducing security risks while maintaining seamless accessibility. Adaptive Dimming helps optimize power efficiency by detecting when a user looks away, intelligently adjusting the display to conserve battery without disrupting workflow. Additional AI-driven features like Lock on Leave and Wake on Approach enhance security by ensuring the device remains protected when unattended, while Windows Hello fingerprint and face authentication provides a fast, password-free login experience, further streamlining secure access for business professionals. Industry-Leading Service and Support The Portégé Z40L-N is backed by Dynabook's 3-year warranty for EZ-Buy models and 4-year warranty for Built-to-Order models. Dynabook's industry-leading +Care Service® Warranty with On-site3 support is also available as optional coverage to minimize downtime in the event of a system issue. With comprehensive warranty coverage and access to a vast service and support network, Dynabook helps businesses minimize reduce IT costs and ensure uninterrupted productivity. Preconfigured EZ Buy models of the new Portégé Z40L-N start at $1,699 and is available immediately from authorized Dynabook partners. The Portégé Z40L-N can also be custom-ordered to fit the needs of any business. To order or learn more about Dynabook, visit Click Here for The Press Kit About Dynabook Americas, Inc. Empowering a Dynamic World, Dynabook Americas, Inc. is a trusted technology partner committed to delivering innovative laptops that redefine the standards of performance, reliability, security, and value. With a history dating back to the release of the first modern laptop PC in 1985, Dynabook stands for unmatched quality, peace of mind, and a legacy of excellence. Our sleek and lightweight designs, military-spec durability, TAA compliance, range of customizable options and industry-leading warranty ensure our diverse portfolio of laptops meet and exceed the unique needs of every customer. Dynabook Americas is an independent operating company wholly owned by Dynabook, Inc., of Japan, a wholly owned company of Sharp Corporation. For more information on Dynabook Americas, visit © 2025 Dynabook Americas, Inc. Dynabook is a trademark of Dynabook Inc. All other product, service and company names are trademarks, registered trademarks, or service marks of their respective owners. Information including without limitation product prices, specifications, availability, content of services, and contact information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Weight. Weight may vary depending on product configuration, vendor components, manufacturing variability and options selected. Based on Intel Core 7 Processor (Series 2) 268V which is capable of 118 TOPS over the total platform +Care Service Warranty with On-Site. Dynabook's standard limited warranty terms and limitations apply. Visit for details. Media Contact:Michael FarinoNew Era Communications949-346-1984michael@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Dynabook Americas, Inc.
