tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28862581224241768032024-02-07T04:40:09.418-08:00ReviewsAzacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-37654281774633946752022-07-03T21:25:00.005-07:002022-07-04T18:32:35.984-07:00Bestar Star-5 58" 5 Blades Smart Fan<p><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigCUmAUfBjdX86umQsJSRLBBekd404FYeyhKOAWNzjJ1nCjay1EY09Y0oUqBkn4Ya4Am_1J8vVN6qJfdoJr0g1l8PMTLZG6auDH3VytHFfpyXIsUghuakLEV5fdNxWteAEL4NAcTAS0zc-W6q7RrH-LHZBMsAg1LJs-Yb3Xzh6FC6K4BxXkYB2lg1ZQQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigCUmAUfBjdX86umQsJSRLBBekd404FYeyhKOAWNzjJ1nCjay1EY09Y0oUqBkn4Ya4Am_1J8vVN6qJfdoJr0g1l8PMTLZG6auDH3VytHFfpyXIsUghuakLEV5fdNxWteAEL4NAcTAS0zc-W6q7RrH-LHZBMsAg1LJs-Yb3Xzh6FC6K4BxXkYB2lg1ZQQ" width="240" /></a></div><br />I recently bought this. Installation was a breeze as everything that I need came with the box. <div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Unboxing</h3><p>Everything came supplied. All you need is a drill with and 8 MM drill bit and a screwdriver. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Installation.</h3><p>Fan came with the main body fully assembled so all you need to do is to fix the mounting bracket to the ceiling, then mount the fan and you are left to fix the blades and the light kit and connect the remote controller.</p><p>Some fans are easier if you fix the blades first as the screws are fix from the top of the blade. For the Star-5, the screws are at the bottom of the blade so it will be easier to fix it when the fan is already mounted. You might be cringing at the thought of how ugly it will be with the fan blade screws visible. Fret not, the screws will be hidden by the light kit. You can also opt without a light kit and they provide cover plate instead.</p><p>The wires clearly labelled and with distinct connectors. Practically impossible to connect it wrongly.</p><p>So here's a simplified step to installing the fan.</p><p>1. Drill the holes for the mounting bracket. Minimum 2, best 4.</p><p>2. Punch the M8 screws in</p><p>3. Install the mounting bracket securely</p><p>4. Mount the fan motor by slotting the hanging rod into the mounting bracket.</p><p>5. Install the safety cord</p><p>6. Connect the remote control receiver to the fan and to the mains.</p><p>7. Hide all the wires under the cover and fasit up.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Initial Thoughts</h3><div><p>The fan itself is silent and it does generate good amount of wind to circulate the air around the room quickly. Though not the best looking, it is not that bad looking either. I prefer those without the hanging rod visible.</p><p><br /></p></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Features</h3><p>Fan comes with 6 speed motor and you can set it to spin forward or in reverse. Reverse function is practically useless here in SG as we are warm almost all the time.</p><p>As it comes with a DC motor, it is supposedly more energy saving than your AC fans.</p><p>It also has 4 fan modes - Nature, Sleep, Fresh and Smart. The manual wasn't clear on what those modes are but I guess Nature is similar to <span face="Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 15px;">1/f Yuragi </span>function found on most KDK fans although what does is Fresh mode then? This is something Bestar need to work on.<br /><br />Sleep mode supposedly will reduce the fan speed as it operates while the smart mode will speed up if the thermal sensors detect the temperature is high. I do not know where the thermal sensors are and I am not sure if it does really work but from 1st test, the fan did change its speed during operation.<br /><br />The light kit 24W 3 Tone LED - daylight, white and warm white but not dimmable.</p><p>The remote control is seriously ugly. I prefer those flat ones but with the smart feature, I can keep it only when needed.<br /><br /></p><h3>Smart Wifi Control</h3><div>This warrants a more detailed review. Ok, so the app in Smart Life works (or Tuya if you prefer). Although, there are functions on the app which is not removed / greyed out that the fan do not support. Eg, light dimming. So that shows poor coding if you ask me.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br /></div><div>But all that pales in comparison to what is natively supported in Alexa / Google Home which is just the ability to turn the fan ON or OFF and nothing else! You cannot change fan speed or mode and you do not have control of any of the light function whatsoever. This is such a letdown.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br />Although you can create scenes in Smart Life and then create routines in Alexa / Google to trigger those scenes, it still does not provide you with real time status of those function. Not to mention that extra work you need to do just to have some voice control or routines.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Technical Specifications</h3><div>The light kit 24W 3 Tone LED - daylight, white and warm white (non dimmable)</div><p>Blades are made of anti-rust ABS</p><p>Support Timer Control of 1hr / 4hr / 8hr</p><p>Motor RPM: 80 – 298, <br /><br />Wattage: 35-55 so it is safe to use smart switches which supports way higher wattage than this although I don't see the need since it does have smart functions.<br /><br />Fan height is 310mm. Take note of the height if you have a low ceiling .Below are the full dimensions.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYyuh7oDyzR9JDLxSn7L9bF3Qv6clQ-rCSSA-empClF3CWhKX9qeqHa0OD_xOnc7562wUcHaKHojW-wjRzqfj_-Angavo2nELTmNoA_5ttf5RwboggwvX5ovfPy80pwUIpVE3r1pBgzYrh-l-qRA2WLgOycmt2a5P5DAOplK-7wBOvPs_cPR1DoZXx_A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="937" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYyuh7oDyzR9JDLxSn7L9bF3Qv6clQ-rCSSA-empClF3CWhKX9qeqHa0OD_xOnc7562wUcHaKHojW-wjRzqfj_-Angavo2nELTmNoA_5ttf5RwboggwvX5ovfPy80pwUIpVE3r1pBgzYrh-l-qRA2WLgOycmt2a5P5DAOplK-7wBOvPs_cPR1DoZXx_A=w640-h120" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Warranty</h3><p>It comes with a 2 years on-site warranty but a lifetime warranty on the motor. The 2 year on-site is great but the lifetime warranty is only good as long as the company is still operating.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Options</h3><p>You can choose between Matt Black, Matt White or Mocha colours and 38 inch / 48 inch / 58 inch sizes.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Price</h3><p>Retailing at SGD $288, it is pricier than many affordable fans out there. But you can get it for cheaper with discounts and coupons from the 3 main online shopping sites - Qoo10, Shopee and Lazada.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Last Words</h3><div>So, do I recommend this fan? If you like how it looks, then go for it. It is strong and very silent. But if you want a really smart fan that integrates well with Alexa or Google, then you may need to look elsewhere. There are other non-'smart' fan that is going for cheaper and just as good.</div></div>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-72081011041896785192022-06-26T04:54:00.005-07:002022-06-28T22:54:30.865-07:00Xiaomi Q1 75" QLED TV manufactured by TCL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As shown below</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBZAqAPFzJOdyQnzPQ8oa443V9OpWbHlxMVjnLngkzNcgOV-ckwuGn8xYQyyNp-ZXclR7UbeilXpfm8XcRoZK4bKNAilLDIQWUyfJjAcz6II0cbIOOCC7YpA7JLlPx3ZHdYcUcZme6NRX8UCuk4ptsjt8i1RSQy-GbeSXaqwmjbudoxrSXAA7Bv8Rzg/s1980/IMG_20220626_194508.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1684" data-original-width="1980" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBZAqAPFzJOdyQnzPQ8oa443V9OpWbHlxMVjnLngkzNcgOV-ckwuGn8xYQyyNp-ZXclR7UbeilXpfm8XcRoZK4bKNAilLDIQWUyfJjAcz6II0cbIOOCC7YpA7JLlPx3ZHdYcUcZme6NRX8UCuk4ptsjt8i1RSQy-GbeSXaqwmjbudoxrSXAA7Bv8Rzg/s320/IMG_20220626_194508.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-77124686587512102792016-07-27T20:15:00.000-07:002016-08-02T20:52:26.219-07:00Rii i25 vs Rikomagic RKM MK 705 wireless air mouseThe <a href="http://www.riitek.com/product/mini/22.html">Rii i25</a> and <a href="http://www.rikomagic.com/en/product/showpro_id_44_pid_17.html">RKM MK705</a> are both wireless air mouse with IR learning functions and a mini QWERTY keyboard on the back.<br />
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If you look at the specs and design, they look exactly the same<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8HjWpOjcvCFsr7Vw1u1J5umKsVq6ylXC2e2GrAm6BF71izLJy77IGdxMGq_Uwtx68fVPRVlJulPpG31fei9odw2NzJfp7CfW9DrVEQ-wQ0Jb3ANpMqkOG7ijvVxgCjvdNaPrf9ah1g8I/s1600/rii+i25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8HjWpOjcvCFsr7Vw1u1J5umKsVq6ylXC2e2GrAm6BF71izLJy77IGdxMGq_Uwtx68fVPRVlJulPpG31fei9odw2NzJfp7CfW9DrVEQ-wQ0Jb3ANpMqkOG7ijvVxgCjvdNaPrf9ah1g8I/s320/rii+i25.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Rii i25</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">RKM MK705</td></tr>
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My guess would be that both are manufactured by the same OEM company and simply re-branded accordingly.<br />
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Rii however has another model which is the i25A and this model includes a microphone which you can use for voice control and voice chat. So if you do not need a microphone, either Rii i25 or RKM MK705 will do. Just choose one that is cheaper.<br />
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<h4>
Physical Aspects</h4>
The controller is slim and considerably light and that makes it nice when hold. This is the main reason why I chose this over MeLe F10 which is too thick for my liking.<br />
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On the main side are all the basic buttons to control your devices like the page up/down, volume, and music/video playback control buttons.<br />
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All orange buttons on the controller can be IR 'learned' and the process is very easy. This allows you to replace your TV remote controller by making it learn basic common functions like power on/off, source and volume up/down.<br />
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On the left side is the on/off toggle and also a micro USB charging port, so do remember to turn it on before use else you might think that it is malfunctioning like I did!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Left side</td></tr>
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The built-in battery do last quite a while before it needs recharging and it can be charged with any USB powered source.<br />
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The keyboard on the other side is handy when browsing or chatting and way easier to use as compared to the Android on screen keyboard.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Mini QWERTY keyboard</td></tr>
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The only problem is that the transceiver is located at the top of the controller therefore when used as a keyboard, depending on how you hold it, your left hand may block the transceiver and this can cause some inaccurate commands to be sent.<br />
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The buttons tactile feel is OK for me though may be a little too hard for some people.<br />
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Overall I am satisfied with the controller though the transceiver location issue do bug me at times but I guess it applies to any air mouse.<br />
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<h4>
Pros</h4>
Slim and light; nice to hold<br />
Beautiful design and good built quality<br />
Lasting battery<br />
Easy IR learning process<br />
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Cons</h4>
Up/down button needs to be IR 'learned' for use with Android devices.<br />
Transceiver don't work well when used as keyboard due to design<br />
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<h4>
Specifications:</h4>
Receiver: USB Nano Dongle<br />
RF mode: 2.4Ghz GFSK<br />
Transmission distance: Up to 10 meters<br />
Transmission Power: Less than +4db<br />
Power supply: Rechargeable 450mAh polymer Lithium-ion battery<br />
Charging voltage: 4.4V ~ 5.25V<br />
Charging current: 300mA<br />
Sleeping Current class1: 86uA<br />
Operation Voltage: 3.7V<br />
Operating Current: 22mA<br />
Product weight: 100g<br />
Product Size: 170mm x 49mm x 16mm<br />
<br />Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-98374173401831802016-07-15T02:02:00.002-07:002016-07-15T02:02:58.731-07:00Tecno TSH5030R Electric Water HeaterThis is the smallest capacity model from <a href="http://tecno.com.sg/Product/ProductList.aspx?catId=10#page=1">Tecno's range of horizontal storage water heater</a> even though the manual states that there is an even smaller capacity model (25 L) as well as various other capacities. Tecno however only sells the 30 L, 50 L and 90 L models.<br />
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Although I posted about how <a href="http://gentrify.azacamis.com/2016/06/horizontal-vs-vertical-storage-heater.html">a vertical storage heater is better than a horizontal one</a>, this being almost similar in vertical and horizontal dimensions (540 cm x 380 cm) will not make much of a difference<br />
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It comes complete with all the necessary accessories including the installation brackets and mounting screws. The tank can be mounted on the left or right and on the floor or ceiling therefore placement shouldn't be a problem.<br />
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According to the manual, it is energy saving as the temperature of the heated water will be maintained up to 2 days after the heater is powered off.<br />
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I recently purchased the heater from Lazada for $178 nett after using a promo code that knocks some bucks off the actual price together with their free delivery promo on their app.<br />
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Warranty is only for 1 year for heating element but 5 years for the tank itself.<br />
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<h4>
Unboxing</h4>
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The box it came with<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_bqNLwON4S0-a_KcBsBic7l2uHiiCsPM0soWzToEWq-1hlG2W7IbTOWk00FD84NaBpNsBQm2gu4XBa5E2gr9PC-poa8oP6_oFeALI1FqS5NYuT6iYkATqykiY7oWhPhryiPVS6Pelzk/s1600/IMG_20160702_053327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_bqNLwON4S0-a_KcBsBic7l2uHiiCsPM0soWzToEWq-1hlG2W7IbTOWk00FD84NaBpNsBQm2gu4XBa5E2gr9PC-poa8oP6_oFeALI1FqS5NYuT6iYkATqykiY7oWhPhryiPVS6Pelzk/s640/IMG_20160702_053327.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<br />
The box includes all the necessary accessories to have it installed, including brackets, wall mounting screws etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghU4l0t4sXspvcArk5sNoN-nixMnTx8VPqsv1iID6sw0wdHE1sF0c2JsaWrcNS24_1D9lMWmslDAIyxzp1FpsLIsDMKSJsvgQb_ufZKc6m0mXv6dvrmkWuwPi0CSdTJxSKJ7LjCXkii2M/s1600/IMG_20160702_053349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghU4l0t4sXspvcArk5sNoN-nixMnTx8VPqsv1iID6sw0wdHE1sF0c2JsaWrcNS24_1D9lMWmslDAIyxzp1FpsLIsDMKSJsvgQb_ufZKc6m0mXv6dvrmkWuwPi0CSdTJxSKJ7LjCXkii2M/s640/IMG_20160702_053349.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
The technical ratings on the control panel which is configured for right side mount. If you plan to mount on the left side, you have to rotate the control panel face plate.<br />
<br />
The simple control panel consists of a dial for temperature settings and light indicators for heating and power.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1xfuVSOonh6LvuxuP1-RmAYmJjk9S03xiYqB72_WjQdkHOCEVriPcjK7xRr6utjtwK0op7kSOFJ1fhv5G2nsEWZnvKsYepNtExnkVsg1dhFrFf9dj5LPwAN50g7AYeZnSTIOD6KZtQs/s1600/IMG_20160702_093645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1xfuVSOonh6LvuxuP1-RmAYmJjk9S03xiYqB72_WjQdkHOCEVriPcjK7xRr6utjtwK0op7kSOFJ1fhv5G2nsEWZnvKsYepNtExnkVsg1dhFrFf9dj5LPwAN50g7AYeZnSTIOD6KZtQs/s640/IMG_20160702_093645.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After installation (before cleanup)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUyJlWKSh8wiFgLyUh9DFXNh-foS4oyt9rVpoO_ByrJuKC-SoYXIdNQM8LNjCpnsVLULOpVgWvvooHjzQGQlol5pi4W7OGcP_PN44S12HHzDk4jFK9-Yu2QvaZtug85ORj8ayZNIibjg/s1600/IMG_20160703_171927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUyJlWKSh8wiFgLyUh9DFXNh-foS4oyt9rVpoO_ByrJuKC-SoYXIdNQM8LNjCpnsVLULOpVgWvvooHjzQGQlol5pi4W7OGcP_PN44S12HHzDk4jFK9-Yu2QvaZtug85ORj8ayZNIibjg/s640/IMG_20160703_171927.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<br />
<h4>
DIY</h4>
<div>
If you plan to perform a DIY installation, then the following are some tips</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. Get a 16mm drill to mount the wall mounting hooks</div>
<div>
2. You will need a torx screwdriver if you need to rotate the control panel</div>
<div>
3. A ratchet set will help to screw the mounting bracket to the heater</div>
<div>
4. You may need the help of someone else to mount the heater to the wall hooks but I was able to do it on my own as it was not that heavy. Just be careful</div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<h4>
Features</h4>
Blue Diamond enamel-coated inner tank and heavy duty anode rod protects tank against rust and corrosion;<br />
High quality Incoloy heating element;<br />
Thermal cutout to prevent overheating;<br />
Glasslined coating on water inlet/outlet for better water quality;<br />
Polyurethane insulation reduces energy loss (Energy Saving);<br />
Multi-function safety valve;<br />
Temperature control knob;<br />
Water tubes whirl flow technology;<br />
Multi-angle installation bracket.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Technical specs</h4>
Capacity - 30 Litre;<br />
Rated voltage - 230V/50Hz;<br />
Rated power input - 1500W;<br />
Rated max temp - 75 Degrees Celsius<br />
Rated pressure - 0.8 Mpa;<br />
Water proof degree - IPX1;<br />
Dimensions - 540 x 380 x 380 cm<br />
Weight - 12.5 kg / 42.5 (empty / filled)<br />
<br />
<h4>
<i>Note:</i></h4>
<i><br /></i><i>The IPX1 water proof degree means the heater can have water dripping (vertically) on it with no harmful effect when tested for 10 minutes with water equivalent to 1 mm rainfall per minute.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><i>Incoloy is a superalloy designed for excellent corrosion resistance as well as strength at high temperatures.</i><br />
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-11134806405376413992016-02-09T20:13:00.000-08:002016-02-17T20:21:39.317-08:00Latest fiber broadband promotion by Singapore ISPsStarHub's current 1Gbps fiber broadband promotion at $49.90 per month for 24 months comes with<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
- Free Wireless AC Dual-band Router DIR-850L (Upgrade to DIR-868L at $120.)</div>
<div>
- Free Fibre Termination Point installation</div>
<div>
- Free Service installation</div>
<div>
- Free Unlimited streaming entertainment with StarHub Go Basic and Go Premium Packs</div>
<div>
- Free $150 Shopping Voucher.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Home phone line at $2.10 per month.<br />
<br />
http://www.starhub.com/personal/promotions/broadband/unbeatable-home-broadband-deals.html</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
M1's current 1Gbps fiber broadband promotion at $39.90 per month for 24 months comes with</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- FREE 24 mths 300Mbps Mobile Broadband (1GB)</div>
<div>
<div>
- FREE Home Fixed Voice Service</div>
<div>
- FREE ONT Activation</div>
<div>
- FREE Sentosa Islander Family Membership (worth $50. Valid for up to five (5) immediate family members)</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There will be, however, a one-time registration charge of $48.15 (inclusive of GST).<br />
Top up $5/month for a Asus RT-AC56S</div>
<div>
<br />
https://www.m1.com.sg/Personal/BUNDLES%20AND%20PROMOTIONS/Promotions/Bundle%20Promotion/PKG100391<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
SingTel's 1Gbps fiber broadband promotion is currently at $50 per month for 24 months and comes with</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
- Free Fibre Termination Point installation</div>
<div>
- Free Optical Network Terminal installation</div>
<div>
- Home Digital Line with free unlimited local calls</div>
<div>
- 10% off Mobile subscription<br />
- Online Exclusive waiver of registration fee worth $53.50</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
https://www.singtelshop.com/shop/fibre-broadband/plan-details.jsf<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
MyRepublic current fiber broadband promotion is currently at $49.90 per month for 24 months and comes with</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
- Free ASUS N56 Router or ASUS AC56U (or ASUS AC87U with $99 Top-Up)</div>
<div>
- FREE Home Voice with Unlimited Local Calls</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There will be. however. a $58 Service Installation Fee</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
https://myrepublic.com.sg/pricing/#300-discount<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
ViewQuest current 1Gbps fiber broadband promo is currently at $65 per month with free</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- ViewQuest TV</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Residential Voice is at $3.95 per month</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Setup Fee is $79.25.<br />
<br />
http://www.viewqwest.com/vqlp/cny2016/index.html</div>
Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-44435607670046429662016-01-01T07:29:00.002-08:002016-07-15T02:05:13.972-07:00Novotel Melaka<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">We stayed for a night in a two connecting superior rooms in late October 2015.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">The hotel is owned by the same owner of <a href="http://reviews.azacamis.com/2015/11/straits-hotel-and-suites-malacca.html">Straits Suites and Hotel</a> which is just next door but managed by a different management team hence the reason why both hotels shares the same car park.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">The hotel is very new. It was opened in September, barely a month ago .Located very near to malls and major attractions, you can practically venture by foot if you are adventurous enough.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Lobby is really huge and unique with interesting structures and funky sofas where we were served by very helpful and pleasant service staff while the kids spent their time in a kids room where they have game consoles, books etc to keep the kids entertained.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Rooms size are pretty much standard. There are study table with the TV on the wall, closet, fridge and water heater. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">The location of the fridge is a little weird, which is at the end of the closet/storage cabinet with the door opening to the side and not along it. No issues if you are just staying in a room but for us who requested connecting rooms, it does pose a problem when the connecting room door is opened.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">The bathroom are surrounded by glass walls and comes with a motorised screen that goes up and down with a touch of a button. The bathroom doors are unique in that is mirrors the closet opposite therefore if you were to close the bathroom doors, you may not be able to guess there the bathroom is there first time you step in.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Rooms either faces the sea or the town so do not forget to request for one facing the sea.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">There's a pretty long pool with a kids pool and a playground at the end where kids can slide into the pool. To get to the pool, you have to stop at the gym level and then go down a step of stairs. This could be a problem for those who cannot go up and down stairs. I am not sure if there is a way to go to the pool straight at lift level.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Other facilities includes a sauna and a gym which we didn't manage to use due to time constraints. The official site states that there's BBQ and Kids zone area but I am pretty sure those are not yet ready when we were there hence no pictures as well on the site.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Overall the hotel is OK. It is new, so it feels great. If not for the pool, I would prefer staying in Straits Hotel and Suites.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h4>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Pros</span></h4>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Near to shopping malls and attractions</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Plenty of eatery around</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Some rooms has the view of the sea</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Kids pool and kids zone</span><br />
<br />
<h4 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
Cons</h4>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Poor TV channels and signal quality</span></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">URL - </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-8155-novotel-melaka/index.shtml</span></span>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-42927576546665128432015-11-02T18:09:00.001-08:002015-11-30T17:17:02.220-08:00Masbro Village MalaccaWe stayed at one of the units in late October 2015.<br />
<br />
Located at Taman Paya Rumput Indah, Malacca, Masbro Village boasts some A Frame houses within a gated area.<br />
<br />
Direction to the location is easy as it is very near a highway exit though you may miss it like I did due to it being assimilated to its surrounding which is absolutely not touristy at all. Google Maps does the job so once you exit the highway and turned right, go slow and look out for colourful houses with sharp pointy roofs on your left.<br />
<br />
Parking is limited so should there be no parking lots available, you may have to park outside.<br />
<br />
There are 8 units in total but only 6 for rent while the other two are used by the owners as their own residence as well as their office.<br />
<br />
Each unit looks nice from the outside with its pebble roads and landscaping.<br />
<br />
The lower floor consists of a living area with a small TV, a dining set, a kitchen and a bathroom. There was a good selection of TV channels and of HD quality too.<br />
<br />
Some houses are connected with a small additional area in the middle for families to mingle, else it will just be left unused which is kind of a waste.<br />
<br />
It is not elderly friendly as the stairs are too steep making the huge sleeping area upstairs inaccessible to the elderly and even small children. As I have two young kids, we have to keep an eye on them almost all the time.<br />
<br />
There are two queen size bed upstairs but only a sofa bed for the lower floor. Maximum occupancy is 6 pax but only 4 pillows are provided. We didn't ask for additional pillows so we are not sure if it can be requested.<br />
<br />
There is another bathroom on the upper floor with a water heater unlike the one below. Both are cramped due to its design.<br />
<br />
There are no food stalls let alone restaurants in the village but there is one just a short walk outside. I didn't know there's one so did not get the chance to try the food. I drove instead a few kilometers away and had take away. Apart from that the only nearby shopping mall is Tesco.<br />
<br />
So, will I visit again? Maybe as a stopover but there is nothing much to warrant a repeated visit so it will be a one off for me.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Pros</h3>
Unique<br />
Good TV channels<br />
Nice host.<br />
<h3>
Cons</h3>
Not anywhere near tourist attraction.<br />
Need to drive to have access to food and rations etc.<br />
Not elderly or small kids friendly<br />
<br />Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-89781000181815849502015-11-02T01:07:00.001-08:002016-01-01T07:32:13.559-08:00Straits Hotel and Suites MelakaWe stayed for a night in a suite and a connecting deluxe room in late October 2015.<br />
<br />
The hotel is owned by the same owner of Novotel Hotel which is just next door but managed by a different management team hence the reason why both hotels shares the same car park.<br />
<br />
The hotel is very new. Located very near to malls and major attractions, you can practically venture by foot if you are adventurous enough.<br />
<br />
Lobby is really small, if that matters to you but service staff was awesome.<br />
<br />
The suite is huge. Easily the size of deluxe 2 rooms. The bathroom comes with a huge tub and a separate shower area as well.<br />
<br />
There's a comfortable sofa and an armchair in the living area but a small TV with limited channels available and poor signal quality. I didn't bother watching anything.<br />
<br />
In the suite's bedroom there was also a long study table and a huge closet space. <br />
<br />
The deluxe room is bigger than normal hotel rooms and comes with a kitchen as well.<br />
<br />
Both rooms comes with a balcony but it is locked for safety reasons which is a shame but as a parent I kind of understand the need for it.<br />
<br />
WiFi is provided and it is really fast with good coverage throughout the whole hotel.<br />
<br />
I find it strange that a normal aircon indoor unit is installed instead of the normal vent type but that's hardly a deal breaker.<br />
<br />
Rooms either faces the sea or the town so do not forget to request for one facing the sea.<br />
<br />
There is an infinity pool on the 23rd floor which we were not able to use as it was drizzling then for safety reasons. There is no other pool for kids etc though.<br />
<br />
Other facilities includes a sauna and a gym which we didn't manage to use due to time constraints. The official site states that there's BBQ and Kids zone area but I am pretty sure those are not yet ready when we were there hence no pictures as well on the site.<br />
<br />
The breakfast is something you can forget about. As the occupancy is low, the variety follows suit. There are plenty of good food just around the hotel.<br />
<br />
Currently on promotion, RM242 for a suite and RM188 for a deluxe room, the price is worth it.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Pros</h4>
Bigger than normal rooms<br />
Fast free WiFi<br />
Deluxe room comes with a kitchen<br />
Near to shopping malls and attractions<br />
Plenty of eatery around<br />
Some rooms has the view of the sea<br />
<br />
<h4>
Cons</h4>
No pool for kids hence not for families with kids<br />
Abysmal breakfast buffet<br />
Small lobby<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Poor TV channels and signal quality</span></span><br />
<br />
URL - http://www.straitshotelsuites.com/melaka/Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-68735832586032930862015-10-08T23:52:00.000-07:002015-10-08T23:54:41.544-07:00Online shopping at LazadaI bought an item at Lazada recently which was my first there as there was a pretty good discount for an item I was looking for. The purchase process was a breeze and I received all the necessary notification right after the purchase was completed.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
It was only after I browse around the site that I realised I could actually get the item for less if I applied a different discount code. So I emailed the customer support and I received a call from them the next day, which was a Sunday. The CSO offered to cancel the order (as the item was not shipped out yet) so that I can make a new order with the preferred discount code and I gladly accepted.<br />
<br />
I received the item within a week and this was an overseas item. I am not sure if different vendors make any difference or not but so far, I am very pleased.<br />
<br />
I have always shopped at eBay and it looks like I may just switch to Lazada should the same item I am looking for is available there. Just as eBay, there are various payment mode available and there's buyer's protection as well.<br />
<br />
Below are the plus points<br />
<br />
1. Items are all in local currency and generally cheaper with discount applied, especially now when USD exchange rate is higher.<br />
<br />
2. Lazada's 100% Buyer Protection and Satisfaction Guaranteed policy covers the return shipment cost.<br />
<br />
3. All items are trackable through Lazada or through the couriers. Shipping fees range $0.50 to $10 which is way lower than many shipping options in eBay.<br /><br />4. COD is available as an option<br />
<br />
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Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-647837683688958782015-09-16T03:05:00.002-07:002016-07-29T00:50:23.589-07:00Midea System 3 Multi Split Aircon <div class="MsoNormal">
This is a review of the Midea Oasis aircon range which is
one generation before the latest Opal range by Midea.<br />
<br />
<h2>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Package</span></h2>
</div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue;">Indoor unit</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 x Oasis 9K BTU MS11MI-09<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: blue;">Outdoor unit</span></h3>
</div>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
21K BTU M3OA-21CDN1-QC4 (2 ticks from NEA)<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: blue;">Warranty </span></h3>
</div>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Midea provides 2 years warranty on parts including labour
and 6 years on compressor which means it covers only the compressor from the
3rd year onward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I purchased this unit from Gain City during a promotional
period, it comes with an extended 5 years installation warranty which effectively
means an extra 4 years on top of Midea’s 1 year installation warranty. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Warranty however do not cover the remote and filters<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<b style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased !important; line-height: 18.48px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://midea.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://midea.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/front.jpg" height="162" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://coolworldaircon.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Midea-Inverter-Aircon-2-150x150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://coolworldaircon.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Midea-Inverter-Aircon-2-150x150.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Features</span></h3>
<h1>
<o:p></o:p></h1>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">WiFi Control</span></h3>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The system can be connected to an existing wireless network
or set up as a separate wireless network (WiFi Direct) and can be controlled through a mobile phone app. It can also be remotely controlled on mobile
networks (3G/LTE) through Midea servers.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Note: Midea has stop producing Oasis range with WiFi
support so if the dealer says the unit they are selling are WiFi enabled/ready, get that written in black and white.</i><o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">High Density Filter</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A piece of additional high density filter that is placed on the
wire mesh filter. It can be removed and cleaned just as a
normal filter.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Self Cleaning</span></h3>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A hydrophilic fin evaporator that washes away dust and grease
on the evaporator through condensed water.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The louver will remain open with fan mode to dry out the
coil and pipes up to 15 minutes to prevent mould formation for better unit life
span after the unit is turned off. It is activated by default.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It can be overridden by pressing the power off button
twice. However, take note of the following statement by Midea<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Manual overriding (by pressing “power off” twice) of the
self-cleaning function may have unfavorable consequences and promote mould formation
that requires maintenance servicing not covered under the original product
warranty.</i></blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Plasma Electron+</span></h3>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ionizer than removes airborne germs, bacteria, dust, haze
particle, pollen, smoke viruses from indoor air. To activate, press and hold the
'Sleep/Fresh' button on the remote each time you turn the unit on.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Will only be able to confirm if this actually works after
using it for a while.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">3D Air Flow</span></h3>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Both the vertical and horizontal louvers can swing
automatically.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Follow Me</span></h3>
<h2>
<o:p></o:p></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When activated the temperature sensor on the remote controller will replace the blower’s. Hence it is important where the remote is placed to provide a more accurate reading for the system to match the set temperature <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is another function that needs to manually activated each
time you turn the unit on.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Blower / Fan Coil / Indoor Unit</span></h3>
<h1>
<o:p></o:p></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In terms of quality, the units are very much on par with any
branded aircon that I have purchased before. Although the previous Luna range from
Midea do have quality issues this Oasis range is of a much better
quality.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lifting up the cover to change the filter don’t feel as
flimsy as the Luna and so do the filters itself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It has a white LED indicator which shows the set temperature as well as the indicator for the following functions - Fresh, Defrost, Run, Timer</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
I find the ‘Defrost’ status on the blower pointless as it will hardly
ever lit up in Singapore. I also find the ‘Run’ indicator to be redundant as the
temperature indicator is already sufficient to show that the unit is running.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is also disappointing that position of the horizontal louvers are not 'remembered' and will swing to its default position each time the unit is turned on.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Remote Controller</span></h3>
</div>
<h1>
<o:p></o:p></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The remote however do feels cheap. It looks different from
the conventional squarish design that most aircon comes with.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is light and very plasticy. Although the display
screen is LED back lit, the buttons however are not and are flushed with the
bezel so it makes it harder to fiddle in the dark.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The remote has a built in temperature sensor which will be activated when the 'Follow Me' feature is activated therefore where the remote is placed matters as the system depends on the reading on the remote in regards to the set temperature. This is a very useful feature. However, do take note that the remote needs to be within range else it will not be able to send the info required by the blower so you could end up with a room too cold or too warm. How you place the remote matters too as the remote IR transmitter is design in such a way that it was meant to work with you holding the remote up pointing to the blower. Therefore placing it flat down facing up may cause it not be able to transmit the signal over to the blower. To overcome this, place the remote facing down instead. <br />
<br />
The on/off timer on the remote can be set up to 24 hrs in an increment of 1/2 hr. There is no cancel button though, so if you have already set the timer, you have to either take a pin to press the 'Reset' button or pressing the timer button repeatedly until it reverts back to '0'. Good thing is, you can simply press and hold the button will increment automatically.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some button has dual role in where pressing and holding the button for 2 seconds will activate the other function. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One thing I find the remote is lacking in remembering some of the common features that I believe many would use like 'Fresh'.<br />
<br />
It also comes with a sleep mode where the temperature will be increased by 2 degrees after each hour and then turned off after 7 hours. Take note that pressing other button will cancel this off even though the remote is still showing that it is active. This to me is a defect.<br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Compressor / Outdoor Unit</span></h3>
<h1>
<o:p></o:p></h1>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With a rating of 2 ELS ticks, when used for 8 hours a day, it will cost approximately $859 annually.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I turned them on daily for 8 hours minimum and mostly 2 blowers at the same time and my whole electricity bill comes up to about $80/per month. This is inclusive of all other electrical devices including fridge, TV. washer and dryer etc.</span></span></div>
<h3>
<b style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased !important; color: blue; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18.48px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Conclusions</span></b></h3>
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">I have been using the aircon close to a year and so far, no service calls needed.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">In terms of cooling power, it does so very well even with 3 blowers turned on at the same time. Even with a set temperature of 26-C, the room still feels very cool. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">Both the blowers and compressor are very silent, even before the 'Silent' feature on the remote is turned on.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="color: blue;">Pros</span></span></h3>
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">Cost. Easily 1/4 cheaper than competitors.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">Quality is good for a China made product</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">Looks good.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">As silent as it gets.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="color: blue;">Cons</span></span></h3>
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;">Some settings on the remote is not stored</span><br />
Remote feels cheap.<br />
Not enough information on the manual.<br />
WiFi no longer supported.<br />
<span style="line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span>
Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-26612567034405408432015-03-10T02:32:00.002-07:002016-01-01T07:16:27.061-08:00Hitachi R-SG37BPS Refrigerator<h2 style="border: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">I decided to get a new fridge when I moved to the new place as the old fridge needs to be replaced with the following must-haves</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">- automatic ice-maker</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">- a separate vegetable compartment</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">- bottom freezer.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">- cost less that $1K.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">I ended up with the Hitachi R-SG37BPS. (R-SG37BPH - Hong Kong, R-SG37BPTH - Thailand, </span></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">R-SG37BPU - Russia</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">Introduction</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The reason why the R-SG37BPS is so affordable is because it is made in Malaysia, as far as I know. It is also not exactly a new model and has been around for a couple of years. Even the brochure available from Hitachi Singapore's website is printed in April 2012.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The <a href="http://www.hitachiconsumer.com/sg/products_details.aspx?oid=1821">official Hitachi website</a> states a net capacity of 365 litres based on JIS. The ISO capacity is actually 296 litres.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">Features</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">This fridge comes with small water tank that is used by the automatic ice maker instead of a direct water inlet (tap). This makes the fridge portable although it is rarely a need to move your fridge unlike furniture. However, it saves the hassle and cost of plumbing works.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">I was advised by almost all sales personnel to avoid fridge with a water tank because the internal hose may get contaminated and affects how the ice quality (or water, for those with water dispensing as well) in the long run. It was a concern, especially when you are being advised by 'experts' but the concern was unfounded because regardless of water tank or not, they all comes with hoses and it can be replaced so I decide to trust my gut and went ahead anyway</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">It is also equipped with Nano Titanium filters that is supposedly able to eliminate bacteria and odors. From my use so far, placing a used tea bag in the fridge gets rid of the odors better.</span></span></div>
</h2>
<h2 style="border: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf99yFbTNODy_j0fYrTl4zhOb0dG3CNr9k6BaakjnckBspcAp9IHu0fT9i54RybiUGlOKMFch8Yeg2JXQ4_KX3G0TXccyGQRyuB9zG8ytstyfTCcmRh04VszxuRzooFFmTaUFU36o4EgQ/s1600/fridge6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf99yFbTNODy_j0fYrTl4zhOb0dG3CNr9k6BaakjnckBspcAp9IHu0fT9i54RybiUGlOKMFch8Yeg2JXQ4_KX3G0TXccyGQRyuB9zG8ytstyfTCcmRh04VszxuRzooFFmTaUFU36o4EgQ/s1600/fridge6.png" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;">It is powered by a inverter compressor which will consume approximately 423 kWh annually. It obtained 4 Green Ticks under the old </span><a href="https://e-services.nea.gov.sg/els/Pages/Search/PublicSearchProduct.aspx?param=goods&type=p" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">Energy Labeling Scheme</a>.<span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"> However with the new rating scheme, it obtained only 1 Green Tick.</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><br /></span>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNPCTsVw7e2YUfoctRnCiN6nNHnatN6L9mrBFGtkhf6GdQBTYNasZuymld9q7E17MsP81SevaYyk_ZsCVOD6eExmKdpizBe0XjZzC-ZUva5nY0fmTqO-2VOLTWTGwpNMzII5nNzhbKbqF/s1600/fridge7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNPCTsVw7e2YUfoctRnCiN6nNHnatN6L9mrBFGtkhf6GdQBTYNasZuymld9q7E17MsP81SevaYyk_ZsCVOD6eExmKdpizBe0XjZzC-ZUva5nY0fmTqO-2VOLTWTGwpNMzII5nNzhbKbqF/s1600/fridge7.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The fridge will sound a soft alarm, which can be deactivated, if any of the doors are left opened for a minute or more. I wish it is louder so you can't miss it especially when you have an occasion where your place is typically noisier than normal.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">By the way the door grip is recessed so there are no handles sticking out which I prefer for so many reason including safety and aesthetics as it flushes with your cabinets.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">Control Panel</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The fridge operation can be managed from the control panel located at the top left of the refrigerator door which is convenient.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</h2>
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVttyNVZyuiOsQ8jlqtUuDK0quPcbuZKluuxGk5q3P7sEzJFKC2b0OIkYO5N6zKRQToofuExqF4c0aUMJpQEu9kWuFvZ_VlYhMzkBh_-fpGdpIb_Z_sGJ7ex1omM_hZ1AT5at-DTCNOk3y/s1600/fridge5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVttyNVZyuiOsQ8jlqtUuDK0quPcbuZKluuxGk5q3P7sEzJFKC2b0OIkYO5N6zKRQToofuExqF4c0aUMJpQEu9kWuFvZ_VlYhMzkBh_-fpGdpIb_Z_sGJ7ex1omM_hZ1AT5at-DTCNOk3y/s1600/fridge5.png" width="254" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.2; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2px;">The temperature for the freezer and refrigerator can be set independently. By default it is set at the 3rd mark which is basically halfway from the coldest setting.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2px;">The </span><i style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2px;">Child Lock</i><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2px;"> function only works for the control panel and not the fridge doors. Since this panel is high up on the door for any child to reach (unless they climb onto something), I find this option redundant.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">You can turn on the <i>Energy Saving</i> function when </span></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">storage volume is low or when you are away on a long vacation where the doors will not be opened for long time. It w</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">ill automatically turn off temporarily when it detects that the temperature in the fridge has rises and because of this I turn it on during normal use. However, if</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"> fatty ice cream, etc, becomes soft or if dew appears, you should turn it off.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">If you are away for a long vacation, you should turn off the <i>Ice Maker</i> function as well and when you are back and need ice quickly, turn on <i>Quick Freezing.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Refrigerator Compartment</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The first thing that I noticed when I open up the fridge compartment is that it is pretty big. Not surprising since it is made up of 3/5 of the total capacity, which is enough for my family of 5.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The white LED lighting is bright too which makes it easier to view the food being stored.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">There are a lot of pockets on the door for drinks, jam, eggs etc. If you are wondering why the bottom compartment of the refrigerator door can accommodate two rows of bottles/cartons, that is because the back of the refrigerator compartment slopes inwards around the 2nd shelf and below. </span></span></div>
</h2>
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<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifg1ATLN6eK6gxY-YDPX94J4jPfGo65T5cGyr14wJemINsoFL_qrTsyccnffLACZWHG75S5w99iIMrPgxtmgaS-Uimx465YwEBOcXiAQGM8MZZlS9XK3mNRmblKBzf6Nuw-4GJ8lSvs5LZ/s1600/fridge1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifg1ATLN6eK6gxY-YDPX94J4jPfGo65T5cGyr14wJemINsoFL_qrTsyccnffLACZWHG75S5w99iIMrPgxtmgaS-Uimx465YwEBOcXiAQGM8MZZlS9XK3mNRmblKBzf6Nuw-4GJ8lSvs5LZ/s1600/fridge1.png" /></span></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;">It comes with a 3-way flexible shelf, which is great actually as
you can fold it away to fit in tall jugs and the like. However, take note that
there is only one of such shelf while the rest are fixed tempered glass
shelves.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9pdXcmp00ObRMeUfAxVlOyHX2ma6hHW5e2E2M6U5KJLq_8wRSoWI_KvakfH7Ie3VApS3qG5tl0Vicfb31sPq1uTzQkZ18ivdE1iDgnoB8mscWuE6_fmsRB3cgUT-h_EE17rBoTMgaqLLQ/s1600/fridge2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9pdXcmp00ObRMeUfAxVlOyHX2ma6hHW5e2E2M6U5KJLq_8wRSoWI_KvakfH7Ie3VApS3qG5tl0Vicfb31sPq1uTzQkZ18ivdE1iDgnoB8mscWuE6_fmsRB3cgUT-h_EE17rBoTMgaqLLQ/s1600/fridge2.png" /></span></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">At the bottom left of the fridge is where the water tank is stored and on the right is the <i>Fresh Room</i> sliding case for </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">fresh </span><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">meat, fish, prawn </span><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">and process foodstuff that you do not want to freeze. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; line-height: 1.2;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.2;"><span style="font-size: large;">Vegetables/Fruits Compartment</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div style="line-height: 1.2;">
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The vegetable compartment is roomy enough and so far managed to
keep my fruits and vegetable stay fresh longer as compared to my old fridge. I
can't say for sure how effective it is as I have not made any actual comparison.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2;">
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The compartment is separated by a sliding case on top for fruits while the rest is for vegetables. You can also store your bottled drinks as shown if the refrigerator compartment is full.</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-6-JGRayZSLyy0GlqKmYxQ1O0x5a4yfdoGo-0cplHeYGEc5tmwAayuH13v5lHvnmW60_8PdM7xCc1YWgw6Nmm4lX8MhIppOXr7MN6wRP1feslow7yh52NkOuXygNbAGX0ShT1RYft5JU/s1600/fridge3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-6-JGRayZSLyy0GlqKmYxQ1O0x5a4yfdoGo-0cplHeYGEc5tmwAayuH13v5lHvnmW60_8PdM7xCc1YWgw6Nmm4lX8MhIppOXr7MN6wRP1feslow7yh52NkOuXygNbAGX0ShT1RYft5JU/s1600/fridge3.png" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 1.2;">Freezer Compartment</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div>
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The freezer compartment, about 1/5 of the total capacity, could be bigger. We store loads of frozen stuff so the freezer was a tad too small.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><span style="font-size: small;">As with the vegetable compartment, it is separated by a sliding case for </span></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">ice cubes on one side and for ice creams etc on the other. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">The case itself is for the other frozen stuff. You really need to pack in the frozen food nicely or you will not be able to make full use of the limited space. Always pull the top tray to the drawer door before closing the drawer door to ensure it will close properly.</span></div>
</h2>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcffmX9LVv5AeTY3gJ3IujOd6kHo4LCXGZBybGC54BPp8eOJb9fRsyr5tvgVTnzp_yavWwXCIwpD5Is67G3evoNLu85n3-vNRKGXd4bGkomjvMVUFGN93MABveMVIvpcrREIaexGDUtx6/s1600/fridge4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcffmX9LVv5AeTY3gJ3IujOd6kHo4LCXGZBybGC54BPp8eOJb9fRsyr5tvgVTnzp_yavWwXCIwpD5Is67G3evoNLu85n3-vNRKGXd4bGkomjvMVUFGN93MABveMVIvpcrREIaexGDUtx6/s1600/fridge4.png" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="border: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The ice compartment is big enough to store ice for a jug of cold
drinks. Ice will be ready is an interval of about a few hours. So if you plan
to make ice for a couple of jugs, you may have to store the ice out of the
compartment so that new ice can be made or you can turn on the <i>Quick Freezing </i>function.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2;">A note of advice, change the water in the water tank when it runs
low. Do not top it up. This will avoid the water that has absorbed the odors from the fridge ending up effecting the taste quality of the ice to be made.</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">Conclusion</span><span style="color: black; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Overall I am very pleased with the fridge.
There are ample space and I love that it makes ice automatically. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">If you are looking for a fridge with same criteria as mine, you
cannot go wrong with the R-SG37BPS. Do take note of the cons though.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">If you are interested, you can get it online from<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://sparknet.com.sg/shopfront/index.php?id_product=632&controller=product">SPARKnet</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">You can download the brochure <a href="http://www.hitachiconsumer.com/sg/download.aspx?file=/data/resources/docs/Solfege%20Series.pdf">here</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">Quick Specs</span><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 289px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td nowrap="" style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 60.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="80"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Dimensions<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 157.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="209"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
590 (W) x 1,816 (H) x 630 (D) mm<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt; mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td nowrap="" rowspan="5" style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 60.0pt;" width="80"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Max Load<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 157.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="209"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Fresh Room - 3kg<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt; mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 157.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="209"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Vegetable slide case - 4.3kg<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt; mso-yfti-irow: 3;">
<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 157.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="209"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Vegetable case - 12kg<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt; mso-yfti-irow: 4;">
<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 157.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="209"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Freezer slide case - 4.6kg<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt; mso-yfti-irow: 5; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 157.0pt;" valign="bottom" width="209"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Freezer case - 11kg<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</h2>
Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-89537961841384743932013-03-14T03:05:00.001-07:002013-03-19T02:06:18.192-07:00Hauck FreeriderThe <a href="http://www.hauck.de/collection2013/geschwisterwagen/freerider.81.1.2.1_info.html">Hauck Freerider</a> is a 3 wheeler tandem stroller with the second seat at the back and lower than the main seat, similar to the likes of Phil & Teds.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.hauck.de/fileadmin/images/produkte/2012/hauck/web_large/01-513040.part03.Freerider_SH12_Black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.hauck.de/fileadmin/images/produkte/2012/hauck/web_large/01-513040.part03.Freerider_SH12_Black.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It comes with the second seat, instead of it being an option. You can opt for the Shop 'n Drive model which is essentially a package of same stroller bundled with an infant car seat.<br />
<br />
As with any Hauck user manual, it comes with pictures only. However, fixing up the stroller is not an uphill task. You are only required to fix the 3 wheels and sun shade. The 2nd seat can just be easily slipped on and off with a catch.<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Features</b><br />
<br />
The front seat reclines by pulling a metal lever at the back of the seat and it can recline till it's fully flat. To lift it up, you simply push the seat up until it locks to any of the 4 positions available. This is a pretty good mechanism if your ask me as you can operate it with one hand.<br />
<br />
When fully up, the main seat is almost 90<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"><span class="Unicode">°</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> </span>so it is good for kids who likes to sit up straight. However, when straight up, the space between the backrest and the bar strap is pretty small, so if you have a big baby, it might be uncomfortable for your kid.<br />
<br />
The main seat can accommodate an infant car seat without having to remove it although you will have to raise the incline by one step from flat to allow enough space for the child in the rear seat. The main seat can also be removed totally if you plan to use the infant car seat exclusively, as shown below, though it is not advisable to sit a infant in the car seat for more than an hour at any one time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_qBH_4-UR2qmlo7AL-2pYukIXT_H9QoMTF8XKatVKeW50t5EPZ_33wL6-OGe_ZMdzJjB0IjMfDwXbzVuO97jt5lbIuRkQ-odq2ZyLsr3wNRP8GDJJu10OeFzfaeywWb6HB28EFUt89G6/s1600/hauck_freerider3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_qBH_4-UR2qmlo7AL-2pYukIXT_H9QoMTF8XKatVKeW50t5EPZ_33wL6-OGe_ZMdzJjB0IjMfDwXbzVuO97jt5lbIuRkQ-odq2ZyLsr3wNRP8GDJJu10OeFzfaeywWb6HB28EFUt89G6/s320/hauck_freerider3.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The rear seat can on the other hand can only recline further by one step by means of a zip. This limitation is expected.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The calf support and handle is adjustable to a few heights.</div>
<br />
The front wheel is lockable while the the rear wheel lock is pretty smooth<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Quality</b><br />
<b><br />The Good</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The thickly padded seats are very comfortable and of good quality.<br />
<br />
<b>The Bad</b><br />
<br />
The handle construction disappoints me as it has too much play, making it feels like the stroller is a few years old. This however do not affect the function of the stroller that much except when you place a bigger child in the main seat and the back seat unoccupied. Due to the weight being concentrated at the front, it can be a a challenge when you need to lift the stroller up a kerb.<br />
<br />
The wheels are made of plastic. Although most will say that inflatable wheels are much better, not having to pump air can be a plus at times, especially if you keep the stroller in your car most of the time.<br />
<br />
The calf support is pretty much hollow with nothing much in between.<br />
<br />
The stroller folds up not too bad but the front wheel is not able to be aligned flat and it is the main part that is causing problems when loading up to the boot trunk of the car.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioC_PN3Z67pztwrYj4qsBrxDu7sZaa6Eddb-fhl8iesQXkcM1auPufePDguvJHfuC3bKJmM4XZkaicp2fwt75elP0xPw3XNHQdOsVEiIWhYJAN5FiRyE7FlLi-MNGmFhRj3u949eWJbK9S/s1600/hauck_freerider2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioC_PN3Z67pztwrYj4qsBrxDu7sZaa6Eddb-fhl8iesQXkcM1auPufePDguvJHfuC3bKJmM4XZkaicp2fwt75elP0xPw3XNHQdOsVEiIWhYJAN5FiRyE7FlLi-MNGmFhRj3u949eWJbK9S/s320/hauck_freerider2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>The Ugly</b><br />
<br />
As the sun shade attaches by simply slotting it into a groove on the chassis but without any form of locking mechanism, it always detaches itself each time the stroller is folded.<br />
<br />
The extendable sun shade for the rear seat looks good as it covers the rear seat sufficiently but it has no where to be stored. You either use it or remove it as shown below<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoEFOzRn0yvdMc6qHq8epfBJGoJHr6LxmUwMIrNCJLkxoFFhmgmbz7L6h3a07bDvgLDaw0gSNWz9STkucTWPB_2KION4_oHTVZSZXkvq9ZU0htFy0GbnP8qp9wciOnmu__rZ_wLXVJJGF/s1600/hauck_freerider1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoEFOzRn0yvdMc6qHq8epfBJGoJHr6LxmUwMIrNCJLkxoFFhmgmbz7L6h3a07bDvgLDaw0gSNWz9STkucTWPB_2KION4_oHTVZSZXkvq9ZU0htFy0GbnP8qp9wciOnmu__rZ_wLXVJJGF/s320/hauck_freerider1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A similar poor design applies to the main seat backrest mounting. As it do not have a locking mechanism, it always detaches itself on either/both sides each time you fold your stroller.<br />
<br />
Again, another poor design is the rear seat rod end cover. It always slips off when you remove the seat. You have to slot it back in place each time you want to attach the rear seat. A velcro should solve this problem so I don't understand why it was not thought off by Hauck designers.<br />
<br />
<b>Summary</b><br />
<br />
Overall the stroller is alright except for a few annoying setback. For the price you pay, it is forgivable though if you can fork out more, do it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y1EFu1llGD8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Pros</b><br />
Affordable<br />
Good quality seats<br />
5 point harness on both seats<br />
Main seat suitable for infant from birth onward<br />
Adjustable handle height<br />
Can adapt an infant car seat<br />
Comes with a rain cover<br />
<br />
<b>Cons</b><br />
Poor design for certain parts<br />
Too much play in handle<br />
Sun shade is flimsy. Easily detached itself especially when you fold the stroller.<br />
Main seat backrest mount dislodge each time you fold the stroller<br />
Extendable shade has no place to store into. Either you cover the rear seat or you remove it.<br />
Rear seat rod end cover always slips off when you remove the seat. You have to slot it back in place each time you want to attach the rear seat.<br />
<br />Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-70331896060022975242013-02-20T23:24:00.001-08:002013-05-21T21:01:06.488-07:00Heng Clinic for Women<br />
We were recommended the services of <a href="http://parkwayeast.com.sg/DoctorDirectory">Dr Heng Tung Lan</a> by a close friend of ours as my wife is no longer comfortable with a male gynae, unlike our first pregnancy.<br />
<br />
There is nothing much to say actually because if your pregnancy is normal, all they do at every check up is<br />
<br />
- take your urine sample<br />
- check your blood pressure<br />
- check your weight<br />
- perform a scan to keep track of the progress of the baby.<br />
<br />
Personally, she is very motherly and that is comforting and probably the reason why we might consider her again in the future.<br />
<br />
However, she is not really pro natural birth, as she did ask us a few times if we would like to delivery our baby earlier, hinting on an inducement. Nevertheless, she do accommodate if you plan for a natural birth, like we did, when you inform her beforehand. So she was pretty much off hand during delivery until it was time for the baby to pop.<br />
<br />
She has a lot of clients so her clinic is always jammed pack all the time, especially on Saturdays. Be prepared to spend sometime there before it is your turn. You can see the contrast with other clinics on the same floor.<br />
<br />
We also missed our full scan because the staff there forgot to arrange for us. Maybe because they had too many clients.<br />
<br />
Anyway, first visit will cost you about $180. You should sign up for the $700 package which is more cost effective.<br />
<br />
<em style="background-color: #f7f6da; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-color: inherit; border: medium none; color: #393939; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.390625px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">Heng Clinic for Women Pte Ltd</em><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f6da; color: #393939; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.390625px; text-align: justify;">Parkway East Medical Centre, 319 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 427989 #02-08</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f6da; color: #393939; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.390625px; text-align: justify;">Contact No: +65 6377 3737</span>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-66703773380167233472012-12-30T07:29:00.001-08:002013-01-23T21:48:14.633-08:00Hauck Shopper 11As usual, all Hauck strollers come with pictures only instruction manuals. So while it may take you longer to get up and running, it is not that difficult either.<br />
<br />
The Hauck Shopper is considered lightweight at 7.6 kg and a travel system when combined with a Hauck Zero Plus car seat or a carry cot.<br />
<br />
Attaching the car seat is simple - lay the backrest flat - which makes it suitable for infants by the way, lift up both the catch on the side of the stroller and the car seat be 'dropped' in until it locks. The front bar needs to be fixed on when attaching the car seat. The seat can also be removed if you only use the car seat. Both the front bar and seat need to be removed when attaching the carry cot though.<br />
<br />
The stroller feels very light and is effortless when pushed, thanks the big wheels at 18/19 cm. Lifting it up kerbs is pretty effortless too.<br />
<br />
The seat at the most upright position is pretty reclined, so you many not be able to use the shoulder harness if your kids love to sit up straight. Adjusting the seat recline angle is through the strap mechanism which is not that difficult to use though I prefer those with step recline instead.<br />
<br />
Canopy is big but too short and high to provide much cover. While you can protect your child from the rain with a rain cover, you cannot do much to protect from the harsh sun. There is no window for you to view the child while pushing too.<br />
<br />
The cup holder and tray is useful when out for a long time for those occasional drinks and snacks, so does the back pocket.<br />
<br />
Folding up the stroller can be tricky for those with short hands. Getting it right sure does take a lot of practice even for someone who is 1.7 m tall like me. It could be made easier with a handle lever, just like the <a href="http://reviews.azacamis.com/2012/10/baby-strollers-mothercare-mino.html">Mothercare Mino</a> as the folding concept is pretty similar.<br />
<br />
To make folding easier, the brakes, which are very easy to operate by the way, needs to be engaged. One thing to take note when folding up the Shopper is to lay the backrest flat. This is illustrated in the instruction manual but is not specifically mentioned that it needs to be done. If this is not done, the two seats catch at the side of the frame will dislodge.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
The stroller is still considered bulky when folded as it can only fold flat downwards. As the front bar touches the ground each time the stroller is folded, it is best to remove it or hold on to it while folding, to avoid it getting stained.<br />
<br />
Overall this is a good stroller minus the few setbacks.<br />
<br />
You can view the video <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msJ6n6iTb8A">here</a><br />
<br />
<b>Pros</b><br />
Light when pushed and easy to manourver<br />
Width is suitable for big children<br />
Easy to engage and release brake<br />
Big basket, with pocket for easy access.<br />
5-point harness.<br />
Suitable for infants.<br />
<br />
<b>Cons</b><br />
Front bar touches the ground when folded<br />
Folding can be tricky<br />
Size when folded is still bulky<br />
Seat and basket can only be hand wash<br />
<br />
<b>Specifications</b><br />
<br />
Weight - 7.6 kg<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Suspensions<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Measurements folded (max.) - 90 x 49 x 35 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Measurements built- up (max.) - 94 x 49 x 103<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Handlebar height - 103 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Length of seat and back rest - 15 x 44 x 71 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Seat height - 47 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Seat width - 32 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Removable plastic wheels<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Wheel diameter (Front) - 18 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Wheel diameter (Rear) - 19 cm<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Swivel and lockable front wheels<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Adjustable backrest - (104° to 156°)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
4 step adjustable footrest<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Detachable front bar<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Detachable canopy<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Big shopping basket with access pocket<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Combinable with car seat and carry cot<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Detachable and washable fabric<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Soft-fix brake<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
5-point harness system<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
From 0 month to 15 kgAzacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-80836744413659106932012-12-03T00:07:00.000-08:002012-12-09T18:59:54.769-08:00Doorstep Luxury and Yamato Transport TA-Q-BINI ordered something online from <a href="http://doorstepluxury.com/">Doorstep Luxury</a> on Saturday and receive a confirmation on Monday morning that the item will be delivered on the same day from 12-5 pm. Considering that they are closed Saturday, that is considered fast. Impressed so far with their service.<br />
<br />
So I called my wife and told her to stay home to receive the item. I was lucky I got her before she was about to go out, or so I thought.<br />
<br />
They engaged <a href="http://sg.ta-q-bin.com/">Yamato Transport, TA-Q-BIN</a> as the courier and I was given a tracking number. The item was stated as unregistered when I checked so I called them up and was told that since the item was picked up just a while ago, the tracking number will only be entered into the system after 2 pm. That means that there is no way I will receive the item before that, not until the item is keyed in into the system for delivery. <br />
<br />
It also meant, my wife will be wasting two hours for nothing. So why did Doorstep Luxury states that the delivery will be from 12 pm onward when it is definitely not going to be delivered before 2 pm?<br />
<br />
The item stayed as unregistered all the way from then to 3:30 pm so I called again and was told that it was already assigned to be delivered and will arrive before 5 pm. Why was it not in the system?<br />
<br />
I checked again and by then it states to be delivered with a timestamp 2:56pm. So that means they did not register the item into the system until I called to ask.<br />
<br />
The item was finally delivered at 4:40 pm.<br />
<br />
I am not an unreasonable customer. As long as I am informed, I will be ok but if I were to do all the work of finding out what is going on, that will piss me off.<br />
<br />
So if you plan to order anything from Doorstep Luxury, it is best to drop down their store or be prepared to wait 5 hours. Else, if you are in a situation like me, you should call to arrange for another date for the delivery.Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-18586372705644269122012-10-24T00:25:00.000-07:002012-10-30T00:17:09.159-07:00Baby: Strollers - Mothercare MinoWe bought this stroller while we were in London in June. We went there thinking that we will not need a stroller for our 8 months baby boy. We sure was proven wrong.<br />
<br />
Mothercare Singapore just recently brought this range in, so we were probably the only one here using it when we returned from the trip back in June this year.<br />
<br />
Anyway, the main reason why we bought this was because it was reasonably priced, practical and met our needs. We do not want to spend too much on something we just need for a few days. We thought that we would use it just for the trip and sell it when we got back. In the end, we kept it and it became our favorite stroller (as compared to our Hauck Turbo and Capella Harmony).<br />
<br />
As far as weight is concerned, this stroller is very light at 6.9 kg. Cannot get any lighter than this. And even though it is light, it is stable as the CG is low due to the low position of the seat.<br />
<br />
It is practically folded just like most umbrella fold stroller except it also folds in half length wise, making it very compact and very small when folded. Folding mechanism is actually easy but you need to get the hang of it. Locking the rear wheel first is kind of a must to make it all easier.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s7ondemand6.scene7.com//is/image/MothercareASE/lr2322_6?&$dw_extralarge_mc$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s7ondemand6.scene7.com//is/image/MothercareASE/lr2322_6?&$dw_extralarge_mc$" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It comes with a 5 point harness which is easy to fix and fully adjustable to meet the growing needs of your child.<br />
<br />
What I like the most about this stroller is that the handle height is perfect for me who is 1.7 m tall and the rest of my family members who are shorter than me. Our experience with other strollers is that we often kick the rear wheels. None of that with the Mino.<br />
<br />
The seat comes with a fully adjustable reclining mechanism that allows you to set at any angle you want. Not my favorite as it can be cumbersome at times but many other brand/model, even those expensive ones, adopt a similar mechanism as well so I guess it all boils down to preference - between fixed number of positions or any angle you want.<br />
<br />
The seat is made of plastic-like material that is easy to clean. May not look comfortable but our boy has no complaints.<br />
<br />
As with other strollers, the calf rest can be adjusted down when you child grows taller; the hood covers only the top just like most umbrella fold strollers (but it does come with a raincover though I am not sure if local set comes with one too) and the back cover can be folded for better ventilation.<br />
<br />
So on a nutshell<br />
<br />
Pros:<br />
Very lightweight<br />
Very compact when folded<br />
Easy to maneuver<br />
Handle height is just perfect<br />
5 point harness<br />
Considerably stable<br />
<br />
Cons:<br />
Basket not accessible when seat is fully reclined.<br />
Folding mechanism needs a lot of getting use to.<br />
Seat recline mechanism can be hard to adjust.<br />
<br />
Do we recommend it? Despite the setbacks, this is still recommended.<br />
<br />Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-34261767263149644262012-05-04T09:41:00.000-07:002015-05-12T20:24:49.687-07:00Panasonic air conditioner<span id="internal-source-marker_0.505332401022315"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I recently purchased the following Panasonic System-3 Inverter air conditioner.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Indoor unit - CS-C9NKZW</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Outdoor unit - CU-3S27MKZ</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having owned a Daikin and a Sharp before, I cannot help but compare them with the Panasonic. There are a few things that matters to me when it comes to air conditioners. Apart from the obvious, which is the power consumption, features like timers and automatic modes are important to me.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I will touch on the Daikin and Sharp a little before I go on to the Panasonic.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>DAIKIN</b></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I do not remember the model but the Daikin was reliable if I remember correctly. It did not breakdown during the 6 years of operation. There was nothing that stands out feature wise that I can recall though.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I don't like</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- power consumption was on a high side</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- auto mode switches the unit on and off.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- compressor was noisy.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>SHARP</b></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I like the Sharp. It was pretty quite, fast to cool and very easy to operate. I mean really easy. There is nothing on the remote control that will confuse you. The PLASMACLUSTER is awesome. As a smoker then, my room did not reek of </span><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">odours</span><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> commonly associated with a smoker.</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I don't like</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- power consumption was on a high side. </span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- compressor broke down twice during the 8 years of operation.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- compressor was pretty noisy.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>PANASONIC</b></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Panasonic has some cool features. </span></span><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It has movement and heat sources detection feature that automatically adjust how it cools the room when set to either ECONAVI or AUTOCOMFORT mode. I seriously could not tell the difference between these as I am not able to experience any difference at all. According to Panasonic</span></b><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"</span></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When comfort is your priority and energy-saving is your concern, press the AUTOCOMFORT button. AUTOCOMFORT Examines, Evaluates and Executes based on the same 3 key factors* as ECONAVI and looks after your comfort with an additional factor, <b>High/Low Activity Detection</b>."</span></i></blockquote>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Panasonic illustration of the difference between the two is of no help either as you can see from the images below.</span></b><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">While both are cool features, it can be an inconvenience as it take quite a while for the unit scan the surrounding before it starts to cool the room when the unit is turned on with ECONAVI or AUTOCOMFORT mode. In fact, it is a bit too long for me sometimes. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> It cools the room pretty quick once it when actually starts.</span><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">It also has its own version of Plasmacluster called nanoe-G technology. While I am able to </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">scientifically prove anything, I think the effect is pretty similar, judging from how the room smells afterwards.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The horizontal airflow vents are not static and can be set by the remote and can be set to automatic as well.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In terms of noise level, both the condenser and the compressor are pretty quiet.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I don't like</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- on/off timer is based on actual clock time and not duration.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">- takes sometime to start cooling when the unit is turned on with ECONAVI or AUTOCOMFORT mode</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- unit on and off when fan is set to auto mode. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>TIMER AND FAN AUTO MODE</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am going to touch more than the two features that I depend a lot on.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>Timer</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I use the off timer all the time. I normally set it to turn the unit off after a certain number of hours during the night when I go to sleep, which I find easier than having to set it to turn off at a specific time.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On the Panasonic, the on/off timer is based on the clock set on the remote. It is also a based on preset times, which means it is fixed and not flexible, unless of course you change the settings again. While you can have multiple on/off set times, I still find it useless unless of course you leave home, return back and sleep at the exact same time each day.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not only the Sharp has something similar, it has another form of timer based on time difference which I find to be more useful and practical. It is so simple to use that I just need to press one button, which is the off timer button to activate the off timer in multiples of 1 hour. If I need to set it to 2 hours, I just press it again and so on for something longer.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fan Auto Mode</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When the fan is set to auto mode, it will switch the indoor unit on or off when the room temperature reaches the set temperature regardless of other mode is on. This upsets the comfort level, ranging from momentarily to quite a while, defeating what, for example, the AUTOCOMFORT mode is supposed to provide.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I feel that the Sharp auto mode for the fan is better. When in auto mode, the unit do not turn on or off. Instead, it adjusts the fan speed and cooling power accordingly. When the room temperature reaches the set temperature, the fan speed and cooling power is set really low, maintaining the comfort level at all times. When the room temperature increases, the fan speed and cooling power increases accordingly.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>CONCLUSION</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">So do I recommend the Panasonic? Well if the two features above are not important to you, then you may like the Panasonic. It has cool features like ECONAVI and AUTOCOMFORT and almost everything can be set, including the horizontal louvers, giving you the freedom to set it to what best suits you.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Panasonic also really saves energy. I used it at least 12 hours a day and my bill is around $200 including all the other services.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By the way, Panasonic was installed by contractors appointed by Courts, where I purchased it. Compared it those installed by Gain City contractors for the Sharp that I had previously, I think the latter did a way better job.</span>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-14127027261199663902010-10-15T21:58:00.001-07:002010-10-15T22:13:50.546-07:00Nasi Padang River ValleyI seriously do not understand what the hype is all about. <br /><br />Maybe it used to be nice but from what I had recently, it was far from it.<br /><br />I went there more than once therefore my comments are not based on a one off.<br /><br />The cuttlefish and liver tastes only of vinegar.<br /><br />The beansprouts was super salty.<br /><br />The sambal goreng was diluted.<br /><br />The fish asam pedas tastes like curry.<br /><br />The rest of the dishes was nothing special.<br /><br />And they charge more than they should, considering how the food tastes.<br /><br />The only positive points I can think of is that they are consistent, if you like the food.Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-80136773439268254462009-01-22T02:32:00.000-08:002009-01-22T22:27:04.849-08:00Kia Forte<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4J1lfstLS5ZdoHDCqn7vRLuP2fXCVzBDo07OKqkmVfu6bibrfLJfV1wLZPmoy-7ZbbChH5qjP2bIht1QgCc7lVXNt1UaK9VEy0N5DI2LrgegzWIlk3Co475nMiKKO3lj0l31AjXtWL1Z/s1600-h/kia_forte_4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; 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display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfZ6JrZkw3sRV0MKLn5YN8a4YsFseaHl8tvIEv_WCIzlh4O0DBhZTiYjUpl8yhvJpx6afoojuwxMTiiPBEtpoENQ0runDULuELJEnHiEhp0EzHQzZpAZTlCnT5TNYqbTVzB4IMzB_UG-D/s320/kia_forte_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294067554052782338" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYcSd-xk7EIO7a3NoFCeIXbB6gRMEwow0EbTJQ0aYmRmHdidGpwm-HGqrKQDYUJCNdzg4oDQ8EYMGwJSOM-UTWUTAorA6kkXDKoJeBwN79ujmZRwxtRPSKSAhAtvfLWkDwj2thO6Pf-up/s1600-h/kia_forte_3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYcSd-xk7EIO7a3NoFCeIXbB6gRMEwow0EbTJQ0aYmRmHdidGpwm-HGqrKQDYUJCNdzg4oDQ8EYMGwJSOM-UTWUTAorA6kkXDKoJeBwN79ujmZRwxtRPSKSAhAtvfLWkDwj2thO6Pf-up/s320/kia_forte_3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294067646842313170" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11P4hfccNqh28Br_YpWZi2TIj0DvJG-NJJFXPb8Hw_IuOyZHw5iBYwtFuGnuFA8bbzg5-6RGfEhAbEYX6ECnkUAFJyopa9LP5wuH9nwiQL2AnZP0qibVf-kB5rjCYAm9ngN3VbJr77vVK/s1600-h/kia_forte_5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 189px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11P4hfccNqh28Br_YpWZi2TIj0DvJG-NJJFXPb8Hw_IuOyZHw5iBYwtFuGnuFA8bbzg5-6RGfEhAbEYX6ECnkUAFJyopa9LP5wuH9nwiQL2AnZP0qibVf-kB5rjCYAm9ngN3VbJr77vVK/s320/kia_forte_5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294067821056755346" border="0" /></a><br />The replacement for the aging and typical Korean looking Cerato is nothing but praises from me.<br /><br />Sharing the same platform as Hyundai Avante, it is no surprise that the external design bare similarities but sharpened up to make it sportier.<br /><br />The interior has also shed all the looks of the old and replaced with a clean and flowing dash. Higher specs comes with steering audio control and climatic aircon. It also sports a push start button.<br /><br />Its 1.6l petrol engine, common class here, produces 124bhp and consuming an average 14.1km/l of fuel (automatic transmission), a very good efficiency ratio.<br /><br />What's not to like of the new Forte? Many commented that the Forte is a copycat of Honda Civic, BMW 3 series, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda 3 and many more but to me, what is wrong with that? All those cars mentioned copied from other cars before one way or another. What matters is that the end results look good and in this instance, it's a job well done.<br /><br />Priced approximately around 43-47k, the Forte is already available for advance booking before its launch soon in February. With a price and looks like that, it is expected to be a hit.Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-64031351914875484282008-12-19T08:13:00.001-08:002008-12-22T20:43:02.481-08:00Starhub Triple Freedom Pack LiteIt's quite a deal if you ask me. Below are the summarised details.<br /><br />Terms and conditions<br /><br />1. must not have any existing <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/CableTV/menuitem.227318645a7b5eb3f75eb1109b1000a0/?vgnextoid=3e292a0a19134010VgnVCM100000b901000aRCRD">TV</a> or <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/Online/menuitem.935dac8c897c3fb7eaaf3b608324a5a0/?vgnextoid=333928043c6ef010VgnVCM100000464114acRCRD">MaxOnline</a> contract.<br />2. minimum subscription of $38.52 to <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/CableTV/menuitem.227318645a7b5eb3f75eb1109b1000a0/?vgnextoid=3e292a0a19134010VgnVCM100000b901000aRCRD">TV</a> (including 3 basic groups or more and excluding set top box rental)<br />3. one year contract.<br /><br />Goodies<br /><br />1. free <a href="http://www.hubstation.com.sg/">HubStation</a> rental for 3 months.<br />2. free <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/Online/menuitem.935dac8c897c3fb7eaaf3b608324a5a0/?vgnextoid=333928043c6ef010VgnVCM100000464114acRCRD">MaxOnline SurfLite</a> for one year (after which prevailing rates applies)<br />3. free <a href="http://freehomeline.starhub.com/dv/start">home phone line with unlimited local calls</a> (retain existing or get new number) as long as a subscription to <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/CableTV/menuitem.227318645a7b5eb3f75eb1109b1000a0/?vgnextoid=3e292a0a19134010VgnVCM100000b901000aRCRD">TV</a> or <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/Online/menuitem.935dac8c897c3fb7eaaf3b608324a5a0/?vgnextoid=333928043c6ef010VgnVCM100000464114acRCRD">MaxOnline</a> is maintained.<br />4. free voice enabled modem (for <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/Online/menuitem.935dac8c897c3fb7eaaf3b608324a5a0/?vgnextoid=333928043c6ef010VgnVCM100000464114acRCRD">MaxOnline</a> and <a href="http://freehomeline.starhub.com/dv/start">home phone line</a>)<br /><br />Tips and tricks to get the most bang for your buck<br /><br />1. If you do not need the free modem because you already have one, then you can exchange it for 3000 Starhub points. This is equivalent to 10 months of HubStation rental.<br />2. Choose the channels you like that are in promotion eg HBO pack which is 50% off for the first 3 months etc. After 3 months, change to other channels that are in promotion. Repeat again when promo is over. Take note that a $10.70 administrative charge applies so make sure the savings you made throughout the promo period is more than that.<br />3. Take the <a href="http://www.hubstation.com.sg/">HubStation</a> and enjoy the 3 months free rental. If you don't use any the <a href="http://www.hubstation.com.sg/">HubStation</a> recording function, return it after that and change your channels to include a digital channel which comes with free rental of a digital set top box.<br />4. After the one year contracts end, exchange your digital set top box to <a href="http://www.hubstation.com.sg/">HubStation</a> (if you are not already renting one), downgrade your channels to the basic 3 groups and terminate your MaxOnline. You got <a href="http://www.starhub.com/portal/site/CableTV/menuitem.227318645a7b5eb3f75eb1109b1000a0/?vgnextoid=3e292a0a19134010VgnVCM100000b901000aRCRD">TV</a>, free 1Mbps broadband on the HubStation and <a href="http://freehomeline.starhub.com/dv/start">home phone line with unlimited local calls</a> with the free modem, all for $34.24.<br /><br />More details <a href="https://secure.starhub.com/shop/jfn?entry=PROMODETAIL&promotionId=89568">here</a>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-54067690081047372072008-12-02T18:41:00.001-08:002008-12-02T18:43:58.291-08:00Jangan Pandang Belakang<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.mwig.com/image/movies/posterjpb.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 295px; height: 443px;" src="http://www.mwig.com/image/movies/posterjpb.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a>A man investigates the mysterious death of his fiancee and discover more than he bargained for.<br /><div id="item_body" class="bodytext" author="azacamis" author_possessive="azacamis'"><br />Rose commit suicide and her boyfriend Darma as well as her twin sister Seri never believe for one second that Rose will take the easy way out. After tracing back what actually happened to Rose, they find evidences that suggest supernatural intervention.<br /><br />I think I am not the only one who is sick with horror movies from the west. It is either a slasher flick or some mystery that cheats the audience in the end. Asians have loads of creepy tales that send chills down the spine, just verbally. Can you imagine how scary it can be with visual aids?<br /><br />After reading mixed reviews of this movie, I guess it was worth to check it out even though I can almost immediately expect the worse. I was not wrong<br /><br />This movie is way overrated, way too much. It's bad in many ways. The sequence is bad; some scenes were simply redundant or non coherent; storyline is pretty much loose and non-contiguous; bad acting. I can go on. To its credit, there are two scenes which I feel were genuinely scary. But when compiled as a whole, even that cannot save the movie.<br /><br />I understand that it is not easy especially for our Malay film industry to embark on a new genre like this. With pretty much minimal expertise in the area iof special effects, it is even harder. But like I said earlier, if ghost stories from this region can scare the crap out of you just verbally, why the need for elaborate visual effects?<br /><br />I feel that there are many ways this movie can be improved.<br /><br />First of all, better actors please.<br /><br />Next, clean up the storyline. If it is meant to be simple, then make it as it should be. Why the need for the security guard to have so many lines and giving impression of importance when in the end he was not even necessary. Why have cartoonish characters like the bus driver?<br /><br />Camera angle in my opinion can and should be exploited further particularly for horror films. The thing about ghost is the fact that it scares us with thoughts of how it looks like. When shown too much of it, especially with poor makeup, it then become an object of amusement rather than one that instills fear. With the right camera angle, viewers know it's there but with just glimpse of it, the rest is left to our wild imagination.<br /><br />My dissapointment stems not only from viewers who can't tell horror from comedy and gave unrealistic ratings, but more from the fact that older Malay movies were of much better quality than this. Take for example <i>Rahsia</i> starring Noor Kumalasari. It a freaky show and it's stamped in my mind that I can still remember it till today, even after 20 years. Then there's <i>Pengabdi Setan</i> and <i>Arwah Penasaran</i>, both Indonesian films. Those two scared the crap out of me way back then.<br /><br />If it can't beat those 3 films I mentioned, especially in this day of age, with more technology at movie makers' disposal, than <i>Jangan Pandang Belakang</i> don't a deserve a mention, other than it was released with smart promotions.<br /><br />Horror movie lovers should just forget about this movie. Like the title suggest, jangan pandang belakang. There is nothing to regret about missing it.</div>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-46712370098718389492008-11-30T04:29:00.001-08:002008-12-01T18:46:48.878-08:00Bagus La Mian Yong Tau FooFound this eatery by chance while driving aimlessly with my sayang couple of weeks back. Went back for a second time yesterday with Eddie and David as both were hungry and David curious to know where is this YTF place I rave about.<br /><br />Anyway, the first time I was there, I had the Ampang Yong Tau Foo and my sayang had the Dark Soya Mee.<br /><br />The first thing that I could think of when I tasted mine was how unconventional it is unlike most YTF sold elsewhere. This one comes with a seasoning sauce that is spicy and tasty and not those sweet noodle sauce that I don't like at all.<br /><br />The next thing that came to mind was how fresh the stuffs were. I have had many YTF before and this without a doubt is super fresh unlike the others where choosing the pieces is like a gamble. David agrees with me so I ain't lying.<br /><br />The la mian was good too. Springy and a little hard, typical of home made noodles.<br /><br />The Dark Soya Mee was not fried but rather marinated well. It's like Mee Hailam only tastier. Hard for me to describe but if you like dark soya stuff, this is a must try.<br /><br />They still give those standard YTF sweet and chili sauce for dips. The soup that comes with it had soya beans in them. First time I've seen YTF soup like that but it's nice so who cares.<br /><br />Second time we had fried yu tiao. Worth every penny. Not too oily and crispy. Mayo spread on top really complements.<br /><br />Affordable, clean and tasty. Bagus? Hell yeah!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtrm6j7lAM3evlr_jF0LA0B3_Pgfcl-8pI01V92rSqtxypbkdfQ1sY-B_GafvyuBuG3kHpeAkBN2zeHFIGkOaMrse6LNeLyLXzu4fj5oqvSp3EmQJCAQB1uJM9Ewgu43eYWlf6rwa2gLs/s1600-h/DSC01202.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtrm6j7lAM3evlr_jF0LA0B3_Pgfcl-8pI01V92rSqtxypbkdfQ1sY-B_GafvyuBuG3kHpeAkBN2zeHFIGkOaMrse6LNeLyLXzu4fj5oqvSp3EmQJCAQB1uJM9Ewgu43eYWlf6rwa2gLs/s320/DSC01202.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275018211721098754" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VCsvLSFOpWp_SAyFaK5GAsOq7R0yYSMft-xuElbZml-X_6O4v2nG-V0hocvZ-0Truk50w_-gZoEzvMUhzZqWHvstuzYlxQxU9RKqFMtl0cemDGxpuabiabjuEg-8cjR-hVhZZ0IqTDk2/s1600-h/DSC01203.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VCsvLSFOpWp_SAyFaK5GAsOq7R0yYSMft-xuElbZml-X_6O4v2nG-V0hocvZ-0Truk50w_-gZoEzvMUhzZqWHvstuzYlxQxU9RKqFMtl0cemDGxpuabiabjuEg-8cjR-hVhZZ0IqTDk2/s320/DSC01203.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275018213927136178" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nv2jVQdn9xJNtRYVws8-3imhgGTKSZMkoSoGjRg9wc9L_I0_o3ME_bhhbjkZyV90qVTGfqHVbR8iu9xQnP5IuRi3OxeiivAn2-VT15HYvoKQk8h3TRW_36jZwuKp6TJ97FZJqf752GZe/s1600-h/DSC01204.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nv2jVQdn9xJNtRYVws8-3imhgGTKSZMkoSoGjRg9wc9L_I0_o3ME_bhhbjkZyV90qVTGfqHVbR8iu9xQnP5IuRi3OxeiivAn2-VT15HYvoKQk8h3TRW_36jZwuKp6TJ97FZJqf752GZe/s320/DSC01204.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275018221576492546" border="0" /></a>Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-68597805846665278192008-11-24T15:49:00.001-08:002008-11-24T16:12:02.947-08:00The Majestic<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.azacamis.multiply.com/image/9/photos/upload/300x300/Rg6NfwoKCpEAAGHrHBc1/200px-The-Majestic.jpg?et=M89WZdcCb1UxK5sHHZO5jw&nmid=23598056"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 279px;" src="http://images.azacamis.multiply.com/image/9/photos/upload/300x300/Rg6NfwoKCpEAAGHrHBc1/200px-The-Majestic.jpg?et=M89WZdcCb1UxK5sHHZO5jw&nmid=23598056" alt="" border="0" /></a>A man in a state of amnesia is wrongly mistaken for a dead soldier.<br /><br />Peter Appleton (Jim Carrey) is a Hollywood movie writer wrongly accused as a communist sympathiser. With his career probably to be short lived by ending up in a blacklist, he got drunk and met with an accident while driving. With his head receiving the blow, he landed in a small town of Lawson, unable to remember where he came from or who he is. Add to that, he resembles a local, a soldier who died 9 years ago in the war. Unable to shake his 'father's' conviction that he is who he say he is, he 'continues' his life as Luke Trimble, a son of a man who owns the town's theater he no longer operates, the Majestic. At the same time, he is wanted by the FBI as he was assumed to be taking flight from authorities<br /><br />Will he get his memory back? And what happens when the FBI finally finds him?<br /><br />The Majestic brings us back to the era where the investigation of communist infiltration into Hollywood took center stage. We were brought along to examine the life of a fictitious character whose life is affected by this dark era. It tries to show that no matter who a person is, he can be who he wants to be, even someone we want him to be. As a feel-good movie, the effect of seeing peoples' life turning for the better after a certain event can easily be felt. Luke's return revived the town again after its spirit died when many of its young men were lost in the war.<br /><br />While there is nothing bad about this movie, there is nothing I find that holds me dear. Unlike Forrest Gump, where we can treat it as a fantasy we like to see happen, Majestic beckons the question - is it that simple in real life? Can we simply pick up from where we left and move on?<br /><br />While the addition of a political plot in this movie gives its share of diversity, it somehow pollute the main story of a man who finally finds himself. As with any movie within this genre, a love story is a must. With it having not much of attention, none of it's sub genre is that effective. Probably the only reason I find this movie somewhat appealing is Carrey. As in <a href="http://azacamis.multiply.com/reviews/item/2">Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind</a>, Carrey played his role of a man who is reluctant to accept who he is, effectively.<br /><br />I'll probably watch it again, but maybe just once more. Watch this when you are feeling down. You'll feel good after thatAzacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-46380632589230842942008-11-24T15:48:00.001-08:002008-11-24T16:12:41.697-08:00Birth<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.azacamis.multiply.com/image/8/photos/upload/300x300/RdxpPwoKCq4AAA5YWl01/birth-kidman.jpg?et=Di4opAH4dVEeHOzfV9DuGg&nmid=20495654"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 231px; height: 275px;" src="http://images.azacamis.multiply.com/image/8/photos/upload/300x300/RdxpPwoKCq4AAA5YWl01/birth-kidman.jpg?et=Di4opAH4dVEeHOzfV9DuGg&nmid=20495654" alt="" border="0" /></a>If someone you do not know claims to be your beloved, able to prove it, how would you react?<br /><br />Anna (Nicole Kidman) lost her husband Sean and was about to put all her past behind by getting engaged to Joseph (Danny Huston). On their engagement party, this kid (Cameron Bright) shows up and claims that he is Sean, a reincarnation of Anna's late husband. Is he or is he lying? If he's really Sean, what will Anna, who is clearly not over her dead husband yet, do about her recent engagement? If he's lying, then how did he come to know of Anna's personal details.<br /><br />Intriguing as it is, which is only reason I believe why most people would want to watch this movie other than Kidman (I would watch her in any movie, any day), that is also the weak point of this movie.<br /><br />The downfall of <i>Birth</i> is that you'll get your answer sooner than you expected. With such a thin plot, you can't help but expect other elements to ensure that it remains engaging. Great acting? Sure, it's Kidman we're talking about, but sadly, it is just simply not enough to save this movie. Instead of exploring other areas, like elaborating on the strained relationship between Anna and Joseph or how the boy's parents cope with their child insisting he is Sean, the movie prefers to cheat by trying to be arty, stretching some scenes unnecessarily. Look out for that scene in the theater. If that is not lame, I do not know what is. That was not the only instance I might add. Glazer thinks that is such a great idea, he used it on another scene!<br /><br />The bathtub scene with Anna and Sean together gave this movie the exposure it did not deserve. While I find it not offensive at all (especially after finding out how they shot that scene), although suggestive, I really think that it is absolutely not necessary. Another example of how Glazer cheats the audience.<br /><br />I love movies that makes you think long after the show is over and that is the only saving grace of this movie. It makes us question ourselves, what if that happens to us? How will we react?<br /><br />If this was made-for-TV, it would be great, but it's not. Two stars is all it deservesAzacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2886258122424176803.post-11227081344233038302008-11-24T15:47:00.000-08:002008-11-24T16:13:04.603-08:00Payback<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.azacamis.multiply.com/image/5/photos/upload/300x300/RdwMfAoKCq4AAEr07Zo1/payback.jpg?et=DuFlf1%2C1btOk7gJtt0lHZA&nmid=20472511"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 215px; height: 300px;" src="http://images.azacamis.multiply.com/image/5/photos/upload/300x300/RdwMfAoKCq4AAEr07Zo1/payback.jpg?et=DuFlf1%2C1btOk7gJtt0lHZA&nmid=20472511" alt="" border="0" /></a>Would you risk your life for 70k?<br /><br />Porter nearly got killed by his wife, a doing of his friend who wanted to screw him off his 70K share of a heist, by showing a photo of him with a hooker. A jealous wife can do anything, remember that. Badly injured, he sets himself to get back the money he rightfully earned, so to speak, and along the way, he meets all sorts of thugs, corrupted cops, all those people a guy like him would normally avoid.<br /><br />This is a simple mindless action/revenge/violent movie so don't expect an award winning storyline. So is it worth watching then? Trust me, it is<br /><br />Acting, surprisingly, is good, really. Porter bleeds, limps, slurs and everything a beaten-up man would, making it realistic and not like he is some superman. While this is a mafia kind of movie with all the violence in its glory, humor is planted everywhere, which makes it, sadistically, a fun movie. All the camera angles, slow motion scenes as well as the cinematography are just perfect for a movie like this. From a film-making perspective, there is nothing bad about this movie at all, other than the plot. Although trying to get oneself seriously hurt and courting death for 70K may sound a little too stupid, that is exactly what makes it fun to watch, with Porter repeating countlessly that he IS asking for only his 70K back and nothing more.<br /><br />While this is not a movie to stimulate the mind, I would not mind popping it into my DVD player and enjoy watching it again.Azacamishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00060070584540738296noreply@blogger.com0