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How to Stop Unwanted Programs at Windows Startup

Are there programs on your computer that start up when Windows starts that you want to stop? It's a common frustration that can slow down your boot time. If you're running Windows 11, let's check out the various locations where these startup applications hide. There might be other ones out there, but these are the ones that I know of and use to keep my own system free of unwanted startup applications. Windows Settings First off, the default area to check is within the Windows Settings app. It's the most user-friendly place to start and where you'll find most of the common startup culprits. There are various ways to get to the settings. You can right click on the start button and click 'Settings', or you can simply search for it in the start menu. Once you're in the Settings window, click on 'Apps' in the left-hand menu, and then scroll down to find and select 'Startup'. The Startup Apps list within Windows 11 Settings, showing various pro...

VTOMAN X1 Jump Starter, Air Compressor, and USB Charger Overview

A while back, I was looking for a reliable, multi-function device to keep in my car for peace of mind on trips. I landed on the VTOMAN X1 Jump Starter, which also packs an air compressor. Today, I'm sharing my unboxing and what I've learned after using it for about five months. Unboxing and Specifications It's a jump starter with a peak current of 2500 amps and an air compressor that goes up to 150 PSI. The unit has a capacity of 44.4 watt-hours. It comes with a nice carrying case that holds everything.  The VTOMAN X1 Jump Starter The included soft case. Inside the package, you get the main unit, the jumper cable attachment, a USB-C cable for charging, an air hose for the compressor, and a set of nozzle attachments for inflating things like basketballs. There is also a paper instruction manual, which I definitely recommend reading. The full contents of the box, including the jump starter, case, manual, cables, and accessories. Jump starter clamps Air compressor attachment A...

Battery storage bags by Ovonic and Hobbymate

If you work with lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries, or even just a lot of devices with lithium-ion batteries, I think having a safe storage and charging solution is a good idea.  OVONIC bag:  Amazon: https://amzn.to/43n45Uw ebay: https://ebay.us/eUjkgP   HOBBYMATE  bag:  Amazon: https://amzn.to/44V4gcf   ebay: https://ebay.us/X8CFx7   As an affiliate of these online shops, I earn from qualifying purchases! It's not about what I link, but rather purchase of anything from time of the click which is usually 24 hours.  the green Ovonic (left) and the grey Hobbymate (right). Today, we're going to look at two options. These bags are primarily designed for LiPo batteries, which are common in RC hobbies and can be quite volatile if mishandled, especially during charging or if they get damaged. Lithium-ion batteries, found in everything from smartphones to power tools, carry a risk of fire as well. Go look at the "Spicy Pillow" group on Reddit for numerous photos of bloated un...

Devinal 1/4 inch jack to 3.5mm extension cables Overview

I was looking for a very specific cable that can work in combination with a Motu M2 USB audio interface. What I found is this Devinal 1/4 inch jack to 3.5mm stereo extension cables. These are pretty niche because I was unable to find them locally. Stores like Guitar Center only had those small adapters. If you're in a situation like mine, they could be exactly what you need.  I have an audio interface that uses 1/4 inch jacks for its headphone output. While that's common for professional audio gear, most of my everyday headphones and earphones use the smaller 3.5mm jack. On top of that, I often find myself needing a bit more cable length for the simple earphones I use when I don't want the stuffy feeling of over-hear headphones. Earphones like the ones I use tend to have shorter cables.  Term definition: An audio interface is a device that connects microphones and other audio gear to your computer. It typically handles analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion, and...

MSI X670E Gaming Plus Wi-Fi Motherboard Review

In this article I'm reviewing the MSI X670E Gaming Plus Wi-Fi motherboard! Let's take a look at what you get and its features. First off is my video on the subject. It's highly detailed and might cover things I don't mention in this article. What's In The Box? Quick start guide, SATA cables, M.2 clips, stickers, and Wi-Fi antenna included in the box. You get a quick start guide, but sadly no paper manual is included. I don't generally find much use in paper manuals, but motherboards are one of the few exceptions.  You get two SATA cables, some cable stickers (which are cute but not essential), MSI's custom M.2 clips, and a one M3 screw. These clip style screws are designed to be easier to use than the tiny standard screws. Also included is a Wi-Fi antenna that is magnetic, making it easy to place conveniently on most PC cases.  First Impressions and Physical Overview Handling the hefty MSI X670E Gaming Plus Wi-Fi motherboard. Handling the motherboard, the fi...