Friday, May 30, 2003

Our relationship to computers Mark conjectures about the difference between people who "love" their computers, and those who see them as useful accessories, but no more important than other conveniences. I think he's nailed a subtle truth -- its more seductive to command a computer than it is to simply use it. 10:28:12 PM    comment [] Auto Vent Turbo, Returned to Sender The Autovent Turbo is an interesting and clever solar product, but it doesn't work as I'd expected. I'd hoped that I could use it in my truck to help keep the interior cool for my dog. Unfortunately, it has two serious drawbacks. The first is that it works on negative pressure. That is, the windows need to be closed in order for the very fan to draw air. I didn't want to completely seal the car, and with the windows or sunroof open the fan is so weak and ineffective it couldn't snuff a candle. The second problem is that the unit's solar cell rests inside the window. If your windows are UV-tinted, the cell won't produce enough electricity to spin the fan. What a disappointment. 10:28:07 PM    comment []

© Copyright 2003 Gordon Meyer. Last update: 6/1/03; 4:38:35 PM.