Guy Low Price Electronic: 8 Sept 2008

Monday, 8 September 2008

Windows Media Center - atsc, windows media center

I just installed my AverTV Duet on Windows 7 Release Candidate. The install took about 2 minutes total using the included driver disk. There were no updates yet on the AverMedia website, so I just used the CD.

I am using this with Windows Media Center. I ran the TV setup and Media Center detected all ClearQAM (unecrypted digital and High Definition) channels on my Comcast cable feed properly and even mapped every single one of them to the correct guide channel with no intervention on my part. This was a much different experience than I previously had with Vista Media Center with the TV Pack using a Hauppauge 1600 card where I had to manually assign about 80% of the QAM channels to the correct guide number so they would show up with the proper TV program listings.

Picture quality using the Duet is superb. The Duet was even able to clearly display one QAM channel that the 1600 under Vista would only show with very blocky artifacts. The dual tuners work properly as well. I can record 2 high-def stations at the same time with no problems, or record one and watch another one live.

For someone looking for a pure ClearQAM/ATSC dual tuner solution, I would highly recommend this card so far. If anything changes, I'll post an update. Avertv MTVHDDUWB HD Duet (White Box)

Excellent card, as the previous reviewer mentioned. It is important to note that ClearQAM support works with Windows 7 only; in Vista the card is recognized only as an antenna dual tuner.

I put this card into my new hp Pavilion, connected to my Comcast Limited Cable, installed Windows 7 RC, and ran through the Media Center setup wizard. It found all of the unencrypted digital channels, and after Googling I found how to edit each channel so the proper information would display in the Guide.

The card works flawlessly and I am so glad that I skipped the more expensive factory installed single tuner for this dual tuner.

Note that this package does not include a remote, but any Media Center remote should suffice (I got this one).

I installed this card into my media PC running Win 7 RC 64bit and it has been running flawlessly for a couple of months. I have it paired with an Avermedia 780 so I have a total of 3 digital tuners. (I send TV to my Xbox 360 and a media center extender hooked to other TV's in my house.)

If you are running Win7 or Vista Media Center with the TV pack, you should be good to go to receive unencrypted digital QAM cable. If you are using Vista without the TV pack or XP MCE you need to install a plug in from Avermedia for the card to detect QAM cable signals,

[...]

user name: beta

password: betatest

If you are a noob to tuner cards, QAM cable, and Media Center please don't flame these cards, they work just fine. Media Center does not automatically configure all QAM channels, yet. Took me about 6 months of reading and tinkering before I mastered how to use these tuners in Media Center. TheGreenButton.xxx is a good place to start.

My rig: AMD 5000+ cpu, MSI 790 CF mobo, MSI 3870 graphics, 4 gig ddr800 ram, Avermedia Duet & Avermedia Combo 770, WIN 7 64bit.

Update: Since C***ast encrypyted all the expanded basic cable channels, all you will receive with these cards are the local stations. I still use my Duet to tune the locals but now I am using an analog tuner in addition to capture exapanded basic cable channels tv from a C***ast digital set tob box (digital transport adaptor). It is just low-def, but will suffice until Ceton cable card tuner is available so I can get HD cable channels in Media Center again..

DO NOT BUY THIS UNLESS YOU'RE WILLING TO DEAL WITH AVERMEDIA'S TECH SUPPORT AND PAY ADDITIONAL SHIPPING.

I bought one, and it broke. It would completely disappear from Device Manager after a while. I returned it to the place of purchase and got the second one. After about a week it had the same issue. After chatting with AverMedia's tech support I found that this is a known issue with this part, and AverMedia has a replacement that corrects the issue. While I think it's not cool to continue stocking a known defective part, the worst came when I tried to RMA through AverMedia. They actually expect me to pay to ship the device back to them. They sold me an admittedly known defective product, they already charged me shipping once, and now they expect me to pay again to make it right. I am incensed to say the least.

I've owned multiple AverMedia products over the years, and until now I've recommended them when people asked me about tuner products. It's too bad that now I have to tell those people to go with the more expensive brand now because AverMedia is foisting known defective hardware onto people, and then expecting them to cough up more when it doesn't work.

UPDATE: This is unbelievable. Now, not only do they expect me to pick up the tab for shipping (again, they sold me a known defective product), but they won't even cross ship me the replacement so I can enjoy the limited use I do have out of this POS. I can't wait to bad mouth this company in person to people who ask me how to do TV on their PC.

To be fair. The tech seemed like a nice guy.

ADDITIONAL UPDATE: Avermedia contacted me after I posted this review, and offered to cross ship and pay for return shipping. Prepare to be the squeaky wheel if you want to get the support they should be giving you. Unfortunately the unit they sent as a replacement has the exact same problem. When I emailed tech support with this they literally told me that it's not possible that I'm having the issue I'm having, and then stopped responding to my emails.

I own this card and it is a huge pain. It disappears from time to time. It is painful to find out after a long day of work that my favorite show did not record because the card magically disappeared. The only way to get the card back up is reboot the PC. Sometimes multiple times. If you google "duet disappear", you will see a lot of reports about the problem.

Yes, I have been through RMA and got a replacement card. And it does not fix anything. I tried it on two of my PCs and seeing disappear problem in different frequencies. Now I am outside of my return period and I am stuck with it.

I believe most people buy this card to record their ATSC/QAM TV programs offline. Having the card spontaneously failing is simply NOT ACCEPTABLE.

My advice: return the card on the first sign of problem. Otherwise, you will be sorry. - Hdtv Tuner - Media Center - Atsc - Windows Media Center'

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Aaa Batteries - duracell, aa batteries

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I'm pretty used to buying batteries online and finding they had been made long before I ordered them (had some CR123 with experations the next month from another vendor). In at least my case, my batteries from this vendor show a production date of 3/30/10...and I ordered them on April 18th. You can't get any younger batteries (exp is Mar2016). I'll be checking this distrbutor out for the rest of my battery needs. Duracell Coppertop AA Batteries, 28-Count

I got these about three weeks ago, and still haven't used them up yet. So many batteries. Awesome. So far, they've lasted about four times as long in my Canon digital point-and-shoot than my Energizer rechargeables. And they're on track to outperform the regular Energizers in my Xbox controllers. I think I'm a coppertop convert. The price is pretty good, too--probably not the absolute cheapest, but these are real Duracells (not knockoffs) that are far from their expiration date.

If you check out local stores, you will find these are at least a bit below retail sales price for these batteries. Batteries will always be around the same price, but a few dollars off is worth getting them through Amazon!

Although I'm sure my local fire department will cringe if they read this, I buy these things for our backups for our fire alarms and they last over 4 years! Wow! Now if I buy a knockoff brand, or even Energizer, I can only get 18 months out of them before they start squealing to be replaced. Plus, this 8 battery pack makes it awfully simple to have them around when it comes time to change them, and it's the right number for my house. Love these Duracells! Highly, highly recommend!

I tend to buy batteries based on two prime criteria. First, lithium for units that will have a long down time (since lithium holds its charge well over time, I hate to be surprised by an emergency flashlight that doesn't work); alkaline, for everyday appliances (it doesn't last as long, but the cost benefit ratio is beneficial). Second,I shop for a good price. Duracell alkalines are top of the line batteries that I prefer for all my everyday item, like remotes, clocks, mini-amps, etc. This particular offering is a great price, that I haven't matched anywhere.

Very highly recommended.

Live in foothills. After going through 3 days of no power and new storm coming, looked for D batteries and they were all sold out. Like the convenience of having enough and the price was right at Amazon!

Although I mostly use nimh cells these days for their higher current capacity and their green qualities of not being thrown away, there are things that still need alkaline batteries. Remote controlls can run 2 years on a set (although the eneloop cells are an option). Some flashlights need the 1.5 vs the 1.2 volt difference in alkaline cells and nimh. Also some times you don't have 4 charged up batteries ready to go, so alkaline is the alternative you pay for not keeping a set charged up.

I bought these when I bought my dad a weather station - it had about 5 outdoor devices, all used 2 ea alkaline batteries to run the radio remote weather sensors that transmit to the base station which used 4 AAs for backup if AC fails.

These are fresh date code, healthy cells and fill the bill just fine when you need them. NOTE - in some places where the outdoor equipment was hard to get to (have to climb on roof) I used the L91bp lithium alternative Energizer L91BP-8 Lithium AA Photo Battery (8-Pack) which you get about 8 cells for the price of 20 here, but they last 8 times longer, saving alot of trips to the roof to change the batteries. The down low sensors got alkaline cells instead. It's important to choose the right cell based on intended use, and this is one example. Also I have a temp sensor in the refrigerator that runs on lithium cells due to the low temp - they work fine at freezing temps, and will radio the temp to the weather station which has alarms set if the freezer fails. - Aa - Aa Batteries - Duracell - Battery'

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Adjustable - adjustable, lighters

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Good idea with the adjustable flame but sadly this lighter just didn't cut it. After only 2 days it stopped igniting consistently, even though it had plenty of butane. Even when it was working properly, the flame adjustment was awkward because the lighter must be on for it to work. Currently it works about 1/20 attempts. There doesn't seem to be anything wrong with the lighter - except for the fact that it just won't ignite. Would not recommend. Switch Flame Butane Torch Pipe Lighter #109

This lighter arrived quickly and well packaged. The price of ten dollars was quite reasonable for the quality look, feel, and performance. The flame is adjustable with a little black collar from over a half inch pinpoint that looks like it could solder wire connections, to a one inch diffuse flame suitable for lighting deep set candles or your uncle's cigar.

The black collar changes the air/fuel mix, so you're controlling both the flame shape and temperature with it. Just like in chemistry class - remember? There is also a fuel flow control adjustment on the bottom, but I saw no good reason to fiddle with it, given the ample flame size out of the box.

There is a sliding lock just under the thumb button, which should keep most children from harm's way.

It works upside down, so it might be handy for lighting my charcoal chimney a little faster than the long lighter I now use.

In truth, I didn't really need another lighter, but it just looked so cool in the picture. My only other use for such a lighter is in a hiking pack or emergency/survival kit for lighting damp firewood - backed up by some waterproof matches, of course.

Oh yes, I almost forgot about the obligatory July 4th festivities. My sense of it is that the pinpoint flame is less likely to light more of the fuse than I intended, and more quickly light a typical sparkler. So, I can tell my wife that it's a safety precaution.

Finally, for my fellow gourmands, this could be the perfect bargain tool for that creme brulee recipe that you've been meaning to try out.

Bon appetit!

I like this lighter allot! the shape may be inconvenient to some people but I love it. Great for lighting pipes and the lower flame setting can light a cone style incense much easier than a Zippo style lighter.

$20 is a bit steep but I am still satisfied with it and highly recommend it!

I'm suspicious of the 1 star rating that's on here because I've had this lighter for several months now and it's solid as a rock. I think the other reviewer was just careless and dropped it a bunch. I would give this lighter 5 stars but it didn't like the universal butane refill I had (ronson)so I'm having to buy another and hope it works. I WOULDN'T do as the other review said and buy a cheap butane from walmart, I have one and it's the nicest one they had ($20) and it's still awful compared to this lighter. I use this to light my hookah coals and it works great to keep my hand away from heat or sparks. I could possibly see that if you dropped it really hard it could break where the barrel attaches to the grip but the whole quality of the lighter feels really solid and not cheap and the push down button feels really high quality like it would last for a long time. I would buy the zippo refill and stay away from the ronson one, but I think the problem is with the butane refill and not the lighter.

You get what you pay for. A cheap lighter for a cheap price. This lighter broke within the first day of having it. It was having trouble lighting, but I attributed that to how all torch flames work. However, this lighter eventually stopped sparking. You can still use it, but you have to light it with a match or another lighter.

This torch did not work - at all. I received this and no fire from the get go. I could see the flint with every click but there was no fire. I decided to refill it with my butane gas but no response. I tried turning the dial to the "+" side but no difference made. It came in an elaborate case but no directions. I exchange it with the seller for a working one to give it a second chance (due to the rave reviews I read)but the second one did the same thing. I just returned it. What a waste of time. I wanted it for a creme brulee recipe but it's been on hold due to this transaction for a month.

It's $10. You get what you pay for. Is not wind proof (or even resistant, both types of flames can easily be blown out).

However, the company is very reliable and will take care of any problems you might have.

I gave this a five star review because as a $10 "fancy" lighter, it's worth about $10. It's not a *bad* $10 lighter, but it's not a great lighter in general. If I was comparing this to better lighters, it would have about a 2 star rating.

As I said, you get what you pay for.

I received this item and was immediately impressed. This lighter has a very sturdy feel and weight to it. It comes pre-filled with butane. And the flame is the largest and most intense of any butane lighter I have ever used. The product picture is no exaggeration. It looks almost identical to real life. Also, the gas adjustment is very easy to use, so you can reduce the flame easily if you don't want to burn the crap out of whatever you are lighting.

I've had this lighter for a while now and refilled it a few times. It fills cleanly and holds a lot of butane (I use Zippo butane). It lights reliably and the flame is fully adjustable. It works at any angle. It seems to be very sturdily built and well designed.

A great pipe and cigar lighter. Easily the best butane lighter I've ever bought.

This torch is crazy hot. I'm not sure if it's too hot for pipe tobacco smoking, which is what I intend to use it for. You'd have to put it on the lowest setting for that, and it's still a hot blue flame, hot enough to solder with. This torch should light any tobbaco product in a second that's rolled like a cigarette or cigar, disregarding any wind. They ship assorted, the picture shows a black one but I received a kind of cheesy metallic blue. I'll put a video review up once I've used it for a few months. - Lighters - Lighter - Adjustable - Butane'

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Laptop Battery - laptop battery, e1505

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I own a Dell E1505 laptop computer. The original battery did not last very long and since I have been using my laptop as a portable 'desktop' computer. Recently I decided to purchase a new batter as my travel frequency has gone up. I normally purchase items from Amazon with good to excellent feedback. So I was comparing the 9-cell battery by Tavas with the one by New Trent and I ended up purchased the one from Tavas as it had a better rating (7200mAh vs 6600mAh) and is slightly cheaper because I had to pay tax if I ordered the one by New Trent.

The battery arrived and immediately I put the battery to test. Boom it was not working. The computer BIOS complained that it does not recognize the battery. But when I booted into Windows I can see the battery meter displayed about 52% charge and I can read the battery ID (don't remember the exact ID No.) and such but apparently the battery is not charging. I removed the power cord and the computer was still on so the battery was actually supplying power to the laptop. When I plug the power cord back, the little power cord icon was showing that the battery was charging but after a few minutes the charging icon disappeared so again the battery was sitting idle.

I called Dell technical support and was advised to only buy Dell battery. Finally they told me that the issue can be fixed by flashing (the BIOS) but I have to purchase a one time support which would cost me $59.95 because my laptop is out of warranty support. So I decide to return the battery since Amazon offers a easy return process.

I then reorder the 9-cell battery by New Trent. It took only three to four days for the battery to arrive and again I immediately plugged in the battery for a test. The BIOS did not even notice that there was a new battery. Every thing just worked as my original battery. I booted into Windows and found that the battery was charging normally. This battery, when fully charged, gives me about 4 to 5 hours run time with my laptop set for Maximum Battery (as opposed to Maximum Performance). So far I am very happy with this battery but I only own it for less then two days. BTW, the battery is rated at 7200mAH even though the ad on Amazon says the battery is rated at 6600mAH. New Trent 11.10V,7200mAh, 9 cells, Li-Ion, Replacement Laptop Battery For Dell Inspiron 1501, Inspiron 6400, Inspiron E1505, Latitude 131L, Vostro 1000 Brand New

Received this battery a couple days ago and have been impressed since. My old battery for my Dell I6400 would last about 40 minutes before it would so graciously turn off with no warning. I saw this as the sign to get a new battery. I was pleasantly surprised to find this New Trent battery for under $40 on Amazon. My first replacement battery for this Dell cost over $100 and didn't even last 1 year before the above mentioned symptoms.

My Dell computer recognized this battery without a problem and I am getting between 3 and 4 hours of battery life now. I would definitely recommend this product after only having it for a few days now.

With the original battery in my Dell Inspiron 1501 worn out -- only about 10 minutes of runtime before it would require recharge, and with the computer giving me constant messages that the battery needs to be replaced, I went to Dell to buy a replacement. I was shocked to find that a new Dell battery would cost nearly $150! While uncertain about buying an "aftermarket" battery, I researched quite a bit, looking at various batteries, and after reading a number of excellent reviews for New Trent products, I decided to purchase one. The battery arrived promptly, I installed it today, and my Dell immediately recognized the battery and began charging it. Given that I have just received the battery, I am not yet sure what the full run time will be -- as I have not yet discharged it. However, after some of the bad experiences I learned of during my research with folks who bough other brands of batteries from other companies, I am very pleased with the New Trent product. And, you can't beat the price -- less than 1/3 the cost of a new Dell battery! Finally, I also checked out New Trent's website, and spoke with the company on the phone with some questions, and they were incredibly helpful and kind, and really stood behind their product. I do not hesitate at all to recommend this company, and I will absolutely return to New Trent the next time I need a laptop battery.

I have had this battery for several weeks now. The price was low and that made me a little worried but since it was ordered from Amazon I knew they would make it right if there was any problem. It holds several hours of charge and I couldn't be more pleased! I will definitely re-order this battery when I need one.

This is the fourth battery I've had to buy for my Dell Inspiron E1505. I seem to go through battery's fast. That is until I read what others had to say about Dell batteries being less than adequate. As I searched for another replacement I came across this one on Amazon and chose it because of positive reviews and the more than reasonable price. It arrived quickly and upon looking it over I found it to be a well assembled product, that plus the quality packaging set me up to the fact that this is a excellent product. I'm sure I wont be disappointed and so far I haven't been.

I decided to search amazon for a laptop battery when I found dell was selling mine for over $100 (I also had a $5 off coupon code). I came across this one and since it was less than $40 with shipping and had great reviews I decided to give it a try. I must say it is very nice to be able to move my laptop away from the cord for more than 30 min. I have not timed the battery life but it is at least 3 hours probably more. I have only had it about a month but am very happy for the price I paid!

I have used this battery now for about 2 months and the life is just as good as the original Dell battery it replaced (3 - 4 hours). No complaints at all. I'm glad I didn't spend the money for a Dell OEM battery. - Battery - E1505 - Dell Inspiron - Laptop Battery'

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Speaker Wire - speaker wire, cool

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Look at how much you're saving on this cable... use that money to buy one of these:

http://www.amazon.com/Automatic-Wire-Stripper-with-Cutter/dp/B0002KR95W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1291499829&sr=8-1

You will NEED it for this cable. The insulation is a real pain, but the stripper makes VERY quick work of it. You'll need to use scissors or a knife to separate the two halves, but I don't have any special product recommendations there, haha.

So, 12ga or not? The PE dielectric thread takes the place of a lot of missing copper, but again, look at the price and compare it to 16ga stranded (without fillers).

The pins that it comes with are very snug when you get them on, and seem to be no better or worse than any other pin. I bought some spring clip style speakers and the pins fit great (as one would expect)... my receiver, on the other hand, will accept bare wire, bent pins (only available from Monster due to a nonsense patent they hold), or real banana plugs. I successfully bent 3 pins to fit them into my receiver posts, but when I got to the 4th one, I broke it, and then ordered a full set of bananas to re-terminate all 9 of the ends at the receiver.

Conclusion: Don't try to make these pins do something they don't want to - only use them with spring clips! I should point out that even if you throw the pins away and just use the wire, its still cheaper than many of the other solutions out there.

VERY IMPORTANT: if you allow your speaker wire ends to touch when the amp is sending power, you're going to have a bad day. Do yourself and your equipment a favor by picking up some 3/8" shrink tubing in various colors so that you can cover these highly conductive pins and color code them. Acoustic Research PR220 Speaker Wire 12 AWG Oxy Free Copper, 30 ft spool

This is a very nice looking speaker wire. The only issue is that the insulation is very thick and hard to work with, but that is what I wanted anyway - thick insulation. Looks like the wire is wrapped around something that is not copper but even though the copper wire is very thick and from good quality copper. I use it for the front speakers only as the wire is very thick and almost impossible to run it to the back speakers. You will have a hard time to fit it in speakers that do not have special connectors like banana plugs for example. I would definitely recommend it though.

I'm not at all unhappy with the wire, as far as I can tell, the sound is as good as my equipment will produce. I especially like the compression pins. What irritates me is having paid $20+ dollars in shipping one year ago and now it's $8.00. If I hadn't been in a hurry, I'd have never done it (I think I missed it while buying many things in a short period). How can they justify the expense and now the discount? Not happening again.

I bought this cable to connect my 2 subwoofers to my home audio system as I did some moving of furniture and my current cables were too short. Home Depot and Lowes did not carry 12 gauge cable which is what I like to use as my subs are pushing 250 RMS watts each and I want to make sure I get solid cable and solid bass. The plastic they covered this cable with is a trial to strip and the two strand is nearly an inch thick, way too thick for 12 gauge cable. The connectors they provided were a complete waste of time, in order to get the connector to stay on, you had to crimp it down so hard you were completely splitting the copper. So once it was connected, if something bumps the sub, the cable would come loose. I ended up going to a car audio store and buying their 12 gauge cable which cost more but was much easier to work with.

I bought this wire because I wanted to have cool looking wire between my wall plates and ny speakers - I don't believe in sound differences between wires of similar size. Mine came with four plugs that are completely worthless - the worst I've seen but I didn't even know I was getting them so no big deal to me.

This wire is gawdy looking and huge. The insulation is extremely hard to strip and there is a huge gap between the two wires that just looks strange. The bannana plugs it comes with are a joke. I would not purchase this wire again. - Speaker Wire - Cool'

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Nintendo Ds Games - kids, video games

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I gave this to my daughters (ages 9 and 6) yesterday as an early Christmas present. They got it when they got home from school and did not want to quit playing it. They said it is a lot of fun. The 6-year old had a little bit of trouble with some of the reading of tasks you were supposed to perform, but once someone helped her with the hard words, she was able to complete the tasks. If you have a daughter that likes American Girl dolls and DS games, this is a great combination. American Girl: Julie Finds a Way

My 10-year old niece LOVED receiving this game, collects AG dolls and received Julie from another relative. Games within DS included "making crafts" like beading a necklace, she thought it was interesting to do this via the DS when she enjoys making crafts herself.

I gave this game to my daughter for her 12th birthday. In one day, she's played it about 3 or 4 hours. She really likes it, but she's about 2/3 of the way through the story. I don't think she'll play it much once she's finished, so I think she'll get at most about 10 hours of play from it.

My daughter is one who has never cared much for the American Girl books about the characters (though she likes the magazine, dolls and accessories), but she said this is much more fun than the "Meet Julie" book would be. She likes getting to choose what Julie wears, and completing the various missions. She says the mini-games aren't too hard, and some of them are pretty fun.

The only other DS game she really likes is Animal Crossing.

She said her 8 year old brother wouldn't like it because the most violent thing that happens is a plant falls out a window!

My girls got this game for Christmas. The game requires a lot of reading and can be challenging at times. My 9 year old is 85% through the game. She likes the story mode better than the mini games. Some of the activities through out the story really require puzzle solving skills and creativity.

Unless you plan on playing it with your child, I recommend this to good readers only. You can read more about the game at http://www.dolldiaries.com.

I just got this game and I have played it for 4 in a half hours andit is a lot of fun I am 12 years of age. I got to say I did get stuck on the christmas present thing! Also I am stuck right know on the shopping for food!

My daughter, who also reads the Julie books and has the Julie doll, absolutely loves this game. She's new to the DS and plays this one more than any other game. I'm not sure if she'll play it much after the entire game is "solved" though... it seems like it may have less "longevity" than some of the puzzle style games.

This game is really fun. It involves a lot of reading, but still is fun. I would reccomend it to somebody who has read her series. The minigames can get hard, and the instructions are a little hard to understand. I reccomend it ages 8 and up.

My 8 yr. old daughter received this game for Christmas & can't get enough of it! She loves it!

She doesn't have a Julie doll but has a few other American Girl Dolls but it doesn't seem to matter to her!

Happy to find it on Amazon...looked everywhere for this game...ToysRUs, Walmart, Meijer, & KMart.

American Girl: Julie Finds a Way My granddaughter is very much into American Girl as well as Nintendo DS- She received the doll Julie as well as the video game and was very thrilled. We received the game promptly. The game is extremely difficult to go from one level to another. (My granddaughter is 10).

I was really disappointed in this Nintendo DS game. The graphics are very poor and Julie's movements are really awkward. You are perpetually standing behind her looking at the back of her head and it is just not very intuitive to try to move her around that way. I suppose it is to make you feel like you are "in" the game, but it is really just lame. My daughter seems to like the game ok, but it is not one she plays a lot. She got stuck on a mini game (making Christmas decorations) and I had to help her past it. While I was playing the game myself, I was frustrated that there was no way to escape the min games if you couldn't figure out the solutions or didn't want to play them. I also didn't like the fact that you are forced to move through a specific story line instead of being able to explore and progress through the story on your own. So, I have to give this game a low score for poor graphics, awkward character movement and inability to escape the mini games. I really expected a better product from American Girl. They maybe need to stick with dolls and books and not bother with video games!

There was one plus - that you can have several games saved, which is nice when daughter shares her games with mom and little sister. - Nintendo Ds Games - Nintendo Ds - Kids - Video Games'

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Toolocity

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I purchased these to make my own concrete counter-tops and they worked great. The only reason I gave them 4 instead of 5 was because one of the pads was slightly deformed when I got it. It was a higher grit than I needed for my project, so it wasn't a big deal. I did about 12 feet of counter-top, and I only needed the one set.

I would purchase these again...the price is certainly right! Diamond Hand Polishing Pads for Stone - Set of 8 Pcs

Great Results. Arrived early and in excellent shape. A TIP...If you don't want to buy a special 2500-4000 rpm grinder ($150-$175), go to Harbor Freight and buy a Router speed control ($20.00) and use a standard 4 1/2 grinder with 5/8 x 11 threads. I just had counters installed and made several soap holders from the left overs. The top had factory finish but the sides needed attention after I cut them with my tile setters wet saw. When I was done you can't see any difference between mine and the pros. Only thing I would do in addition is get the white buffing pad to go with the black one. great set at a fair price...

I purchased the pads along with an elecronic polisher and found these to be absolutely useless and a waste of money...I burned through them so quickly they were for a one time use only...the gride level on the block faded quickly and I wasn't even sure which pad now is which...'

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Accessories - accessories, android

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I like everything about the case except for one thing... The rubber on the bottom near all the ports (dock connecdtions, hdmi out, etc..) is very thin, and it doesn't really fully fit around the bottom. It stays on, but it's very easy to take off on the bottom. Also, I dont really like how it adds so much bulkiness. However i really like how it makes a little raised edge on the screen, so you can turn it upside down when you're trying to listen to music because the speakers are on the back. I also like how it is rubbery, and it so it helps with getting a good grip on the Xoom. I haven't tried docking it yet, so I hope that it sill works even though the case is on it.

Pros: Raised edge, protective, rubber feel so good grip

Cons: makes xoom bulky, thin rubber part on the bottom Motorola Protective Gel Case for MOTOROLA XOOM Black (Motorola Retail Packaging)

Pros

I like the skin so far. It grips your hand thus making it hard to drop.

Cons

Collects lots of dust. The edges are all poorly put together. Little pieces of rubber stick out where the front little part and the back come together.

Besides that perfect fit, and should be good enough to protect it from scrstches at least.

I got this for my Xoom after reading all the bad reviews about the portfolio case. I like that it will fit into the standard dock with the case on. I am still hoping for a better portfolio type case that protects the screen as well.

This type of protector is really all you need. The screen on the Xoom is made of Gorilla Glass which is VERY tough...the back is actually more delicate. The protector adds a bit of depth to the device but not enough heft to matter. All the ports are well exposed and the material makes it easier to grip the device without feeling like it might slip out of your hands.

This gel case was just what I was looking for. I tried all the electonic stores that carried the xoom, but none had this case in stock. I even tried a verizon store.

Anyway the case gives added grip to the back of the case which is nice and now I don't have to worry about the back getting scratched when I put it down on the table.

The only part that is loose on my case is right between the dock connector and screen. This is due to it only having a little bit of rubber here.

The case is what you would expect for a slip over gel covering. The biggest downside is that the rubber material is very flexible and can at times pull away from the edge. A harder plastic would make it maintain it's shape better.

I purchased this case with the Xoom, and it has been perfect for me! It keeps the body covered, and when used with a screen protector, it offers almost complete protection. I have yet to find this case too loose- it has fit the case very nicely from day 1. Unlike portfolio cases that you need to open up every time you use the Xoom, this case offers the same protection with easier access.

My gel case came with the xoom and that's what it's worth. I split the corner getting it on. It does not add much grip at all. The volume buttons are covered with raised dots that I cannot feel, I have to look for them. It'll help until I buy a real case.

I've owned this case for as long as I've owned the WiFi XOOM (since release date about a week ago), and I'm very happy with it. The case is a perfect fit with absolutely no wiggle room, and it stays snug on the device without any movement. It also has very accurate cutouts for the ports and speakers; the volume keys are very easy to access and press. Overall, it's a good case to have if you don't want to go with Motorola's Portfolio case (read my review Motorola Protective Portfolio Case for MOTOROLA XOOM (Motorola Retail Packaging).

The only cons I can think of would be that the case is a bit more slippery than you would expect a silicone case to be, but that's a very minor gripe. I fully recommend this case. - Skin Care - Android - Android Tablet - Accessories'

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Paslode

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What is there to say about a battery? It takes a charge and it delivers power. This particular model lasts a very long time. The impulse guns must not require much power to operate because these will drive several thousand nails before dying. My only complaint is that they are expensive compared to other batteries . At the same rate a 12v would be a hundred bucks. Paslode Cordless Battery

Loyal paslode customer own approx. 10 cordless guns, approx 12 oval batteries, 8 of the batteries have came apart at the clip. The top of the battery comes completly off when you put it in the gun. Have to use black tape to hold the batteries together. Don't have much choice I need a battery to fire the guns trying to find other options. Any sugestions?

I picked up a spare battery for my Paslode since I use it at our remote cabin and charging batteries is a bit of an ordeal. There's not too much to say about the battery itself, works like you'd expect. The battery doesn't have to do much in the gun (runs a cooling fan and fires the spark plug), so it lasts a long time on one charge.

the battery came on time and is working just fine

BUT MY ORDER FOR GLEEM TOOTH PAST HAS NOT COME IN - IT WAS SUPPOSE TO BE IN AROUND JULY 19TH NOW FOR NO REASON GIVEN IT IS SUPPOSE TO BE IN THE MIDDLE OF AUG.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!'

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Laptop Power Adapters - macbook, macbook charger

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The original cord for my computer shorted out and I needed a replacement. I bought this thinking it was a good cheap alternative to the 80 dollar apple cord. It worked fine initially, but after about two weeks the power block began to become too hot to touch after being plugged in.

This replacement is made of plastic that is too cheap to handle the scalding heat of the power block. It is literally melting itself and is a fire hazard.

I now have to buy a new cord as I'm afraid this one will catch fire and burn my house down.

I recommend spending the extra 20 bucks and ordering a genuine apple cord from amazon. Replacement AC Adapter for Apple MagSafe MacBook Pro Laptops 16.5V, 3.65A 60W

I do not recommend this item. First, I got it and it broke within the first 2 weeks of having it; Second, it made an awful screeching noise the entire time it was plugged in; Third, after writing my negative review the first time, the product maker e-mailed me telling me that they "cared about the satisfaction of their customers" and would send me a new charger THAT DAY if I removed the feedback. I then removed the feedback, e-mailed them back (twice) and have yet to hear from them or receive my new charger.

I thought this product was a good deal for [...] bucks when apple wanted $80 for the same cord. So I thought. When I got the cord I plugged it in and had power to my laptop, however, the cord does not charge my laptop battery. That is the part that really hurts. I don't want to have sit by a plug to use my laptop all the time so I guess I will have to break down and purchase an AC adapter from Apple so that I can charge my laptop.

When my original MacBook recharger finally went bad, I didn't want to spend $85 or more on a new one. However, I was scared off by some of the bad reviews of these off-brand replacements here on Amazon. But, I thought, "to heck with it, I will order a cheap one, and if it doesn't work I will return it."

So I got it in the mail, and guess what, it works great. Yes, the little light in the cord, in the part that actually connects to the MacBook, stays on for a while after I take it out of the computer. And, yes, it gets warmer than the Apple original. It doesn't get hot, and I don't care about the light. It does not come with the Apple extension cord, but it does fit my original extension cord just fine. Then thing works great, and it costs 75% less.

In fact, it works so great, I bought a second one. Now I keep one at the office and one at home so I don't have to carry the recharger between locations. So, for a bit more than half the price of the Apple version, I have two rechargers that both work great.

The cord only really works if you can set it in the exact right position in the outlet. Every time you move your computer, you have to skillfully position the cord so that your computer will recognize that it's plugged in. Plus, you can't take off the original plug and use an extension cord with this. Also, it feels very hot when plugged in for a long period of time.

Well, technically this item works (i.e. it charges my laptop) but I would not dare to leave the room with it plugged in. Once plugged in, this adapter heats up almost immediately and to the point where I can't touch it with my bare hands. I was suspicious when the first time I plugged it in, the charging light stayed lit for a few minutes after I unplugged it. Then, when I tried to leave it plugged in long enough to actually fully charge the laptop, I was worried it would cause a fire.

This is not an Apple laptop charger. It's a fake, a chinese knockoff. Avoid this seller and this item at all costs. Unless you want to destroy your $1000+ laptop with a $20 piece of chinese garbage...

Not worth your money, or even my time, writing a 'review' for this garbage.

So I have been using this for about a month now and it has been working fine. I have a 13" MBP and needed an extra charger for when at school as my first one is tied up in a docking station. Like many of the other reviewers the unit did get very hot at first, but as I have used it more and more I find that it doesn't get as hot as it did initially and it is always touchable now. As for charging, it works well charging the computer and I have had no problems with the LED charging indicator. Sometimes it can be a bit temperamental when plugging into the wall to get it to start charging but if it is plugged into a floor outlet or power strip on the ground it works every time with no problems. For the price though I cannot complain and think it is a great deal vs. the $80 apple alternative.

It would be a 5 star if not for the fact that it gets hot and sometimes needs a little positioning encouragement to start charging. But overall I recommend it.

This works fine if you treat it like fine china. Otherwise, don't bother with it. It broke when I bumped it with my foot...which is going to happen occasionally because I plug my computer in underneath my desk at work. Should have just gone with the one from Apple. - Macbook - Apple Charger - Macbook Charger - Power Adapter'

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Hp Laptop Battery - battery, hewlett packard

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This battery arrived 2 days before the suggested arrival date. I replaced a 4400ma battery that died after 15 months of owning my laptop (just 3 months out of warranty) After several calls and emails to HP the best they could do is send me a replacement 4400ma battery for $67.00 plus shipping and handling. I was concerned that it may only last 15 months. I have read many bad reviews about the hp stock battery I had . After searching amazon.com found an 8800ma battery for $54.00. This battery is in my HP Pavilion dv4-1220us laptop. I have read the reviews and some complaints were about the battery being heavy and raised the laptop about a 1/2in. higher than the 4400ma stock battery that came with the laptop. This is not only true for the replacement 12 cell battery, but to note my brother-in-law has a later model hp pavilion with a stock 12 cell battery, and it is the same size as the replacement battery I purchased. If you want a lighter flatter battery then get a 4400ma battery. However my 4400ma stock battery never got me more than 1hr and 30 minutes of power and lasted only 15 months. On the other hand after having this battery for just about a week now I get about 3hrs and 45 minutes of battery life streaming music. It is well worth the extra weight and actually easier to type now that the laptop is angled a little bit. There was another complaint that the battery either fell out of the machine or was a bit shakey, and at times lost connection and the laptop would shut down. Now I don't know about other models of laptops, but on my pavilion dv4-1220us this does not happen. I will say that it does wiggle a little, but my brother-in-law's 12 cell 8800ma stock battery with his ph pavilion also has some wiggle room. All in all for the money compared to what HP wants for the same battery you can't beat it. My only regret is that at the time of posting this review the same battery is 7 dollars cheaper than when I ordered a little over 2 weeks ago. New Laptop Replacement Battery for HP Pavilion dv4 Series, Pavilion dv5 Series , Pavilion dv6 Series

I bought this battery for my HPDV51000 Laptop. I chose this battery over an HP Battery for 2 reasons 1) My original HP battery died after 15 months of use so I didn't want to get another one with the same results, I was hoping to find one that would last longer. 2) This battery had good reviews. I followed all the directions by calibrating the battery several times by fully draining and then recharging it. The battery only lasts for less than 1 hour with all the power settings set to the HP Recommended settings. The original HP laptop battery lasted well over 2 hours on the same settings. Overall I am disappointed.

I got this to replace a dead battery on my HP Pavillion DV-4 (which died after 14 months).

The price was great, compared to getting one direct from HP. So I was a bit skeptical about performance. But now it's been 3 months and it still works fine. Charges just as fast, and the charge lasts as long as the original HP battery did. It's basically just a clone of the HP battery, and these aftermarket batteries can be hit-or-miss. There is always a risk when buying a battery not made by the manufacturer, but I have found this one to work just as well as the first one. I hope it lasts even longer than the original. The battery life of the original HP battery was very dissapointing.

The battery works fine as long as you are using an actual HP power cord with it. When I first got this replacement battery it did not work with the cheap power cord I bought for $15 off here. If you need to replace your battery and/or power cord (as I had to after less than two years), this battery is fine but spend the extra money ($25 on Amazon) and buy the right HP power cord.

I was amazed how quickly the item got to me. I got an email saying that it was going to take much longer, but it arrived in just about a week and a half. It was a lot cheaper than a lot of others, so that made me nervous, but so far it is performing better than the original battery ever did.

I recieved the product in a proper time frame and it was the exact one. The only problem I had was when I searched for this product I wasn't sure if it was the right one but I got help and it turned out to be the correct one.

I bought this battery because my original battery had lost it's ability to hold a charge. Since using this battery, I have the portability of my laptop back and I absolutely love it. This is a good battery, for a good price and I'd definitely recommend it.

The actual product which was delivered was not at all the same as in the description of the product. it does not work for dv5 or dv6 laptops. Even on the delivered charger, it says dv4 charger. u will be cheated.

I was not about to pay $135 for a HP original battery that only lasted me 17 months. I bought from this company because it came with a 2 year warrant and money back guarantee. I will not have to buy another battery again for the next 3-4 years and that in itself is a saving. The battery arrived in just one day with free shipping. It came with great instructions on how to install their new battery with video instructions from their website. So far it's running great and out lasting my previous original HP battery when it was brand new. I will be back and refer my friends and families. Thank you LaptopBatteryOne.com. - Laptop Batteries - Battery - Laptop Battery - Hewlett Packard'

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All In One Usb Card Reader - multi-card reader, card reader

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After years of having an internal multi-format card reader I was dreading needing to get an external one. I read up on a dozen different models and decided the price and good reviews of this one made it worth taking a chance. I am using it on an iMac with 3 card sizes: SD, CompactFlash, and MicroSD. All work great. Hooking it up was instant. The transfer rate is spectacular especially when not hooked up through a USB hub.

Do I wish the cards were easier to get back out? Sure, but they're only a fraction more awkward to get out than my internal card reader and no worse than any other external model. It's nice to be truly pleased with product. Kingston 19-in-1 USB 2.0 Flash Memory Card Reader FCR-HS219/1

Out of box, this card reader DID NOT work with my Transcend 8GB CF cards. I contacted tech support and requested a firmware update if it was available. After the update, this reader works flawlessly.

I give it a 4 star because Kingston didn't bother to make this update (dated July 2008) publicly available. Tech support needs to give you access to their password protected site in order to download it. Kind of a pain but the installation was easy.

I purchased a 4GB SDHC card to go with my new Nikon digital SLR only to find my trusty old multi-format reader didn't work with it. I went to a few BIG BOX stores seeking something to use without luck... they are still relatively rare. After searching the web I decided to buy the Kingston reader. It is a great little reader. I current only have cameras that use SD, Micro SD, SDHC, and Memory Sticks... all these and more are read rapidly.

The reader comes with a very, very short USB cord attached, but Kingston also included a USB extension cord that enabled me to plug into the rear ports of my desktop's CPU with ease. The reader's sliding case allows you to keep cards plugged into the unit while traveling seems awkward at first, but is a really cool idea. Using "My Computer", the Nikon's SDHC card's data appeared on my screen labeled as a "Nikon data port"... very convenient. I have only used the reader for simple single card data retrieval and it worked flawlessly. I am very happy with the fast service the vendor supplied and the operation of this neat device. Highly recommended!

Product is great if you're looking for a media reader that does not support XD card types. You would think that in a 19-in-1 reader you would have high chances of getting it with XD card compatibility, but apparently not so with this Kingston. Although it would help if the product description gave a brief list, (oh maybe 19 words long?) of the 19 media types that it supports.

This card reader is so much faster than my very old very cheap reader I'm not sure how objective of a review I can give. It's lightweight, the hide-away plug is nice, and I like the "slide-away" card port area.

It has read everything from my 16 mb (ahem) CF card to my 8 gig CF card quickly and with ease, and works without flaw in our Ubuntu Linux environment. Yes, it reads both of my 8 gig cards fine.

As a photographer and Linux user, I recommend this reader.

My previous cardreader (6 years old) started giving connection errors so I shopped around looking for (a) price, (b) size, (c) convenience. Another tipping factor was that I've always had positive experience with Kingston products.

Have had it and used it extensively for several weeks and have no qualms about it. It has a short cable so it's easier to connect than those without cable; it is retractable which protects the connections and the cable and makes it easy to throw into my briefcase. One caveat: I've only use the SD connection but one would presume the other connections are operable. Also, upon writing this review, I see that there was suppose to be a 3' extension cable. Hmmmm...don't remember getting that. Have to check my desk--haven't needed it but still would be good to have.

For the price, this was a great deal. Reads everything under the sun. (But to be honest, I've only used it with SD cards so far, but the peace of mind knowing that I'm ready for anything is great) I clocked it's transfer rate of large files with my SanDisk Extreme III at 44MB/s read and 17 MB/s write. (note that MB is megaBYTE, as in 8 megaBITs (Mb) ) This means there is little or no bottlenecking at the reader. Of course my image import times are only about half what my USB 1.1 reader dies, as the start/stop cycles between pictures in the MS camera wizard take most of the time.

Also, the cord option is nice - it has a built-in 2-inch cord for laptops and comes with a 3ft extension for other applications. Also the ports are retractable into the case for extra safety for your cards, so they aren't the farthest thing sticking out.

All-in-all, very nice product for a good price.

I have used this product only for SD so far. It has worked perfectly. I will note that the cards do not slide in and out of the unit smoothly, but this may be a function of the fact that it's designed to accommodate several different types of cards in each of its slots (which is kind of amazing), and thus perfect insertion-smoothness is too much to ask for. Just be careful when popping these little cards into the unit so you don't break the (fragile) cards or the unit! * * * I found the LED on top of the unit a little confusing since its indications differ from other plug-in devices I've owned. (I would have expected the light to go off when the Kingston drive was safely dis-/un-mounted from the desktop (that is, after I safely dragged the SD card icon to the trash). The manual says nothing useful in this regard. However, Kingston Customer Service advised me as follows: "The light indicates a card is inserted. When it flashes, this indicates activity. Do not remove the card when the light is flashing. Before you remove the card, drag the icon for the card to the trash. Wait for the light to stop flashing and for the icon the icon to be removed from the desktop and then pull out the card." * * * For value, versatility, and ease of use, I would definitely recommend this item over its rivals listed on Amazon. - Sd Card Reader - Multi-card Reader - All In One Usb Card Reader - Card Reader'

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Bicycle Accessories - garmin 405, garmin 305

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(Please note: the other user's negative review for this item is not accurate. The photo pictured is accurate for the Premium HRM, Product Number 010-10997-02. See below for update to original review.)

ORIGINAL REVIEW:

I tested out my friend's Premium Heart Rate Monitor (HRM) on the trail this weekend and was extremely impressed and ordered mine yesterday. (My hat is off to Amazon - this is a better deal than dealer's pricing.)

The premium HRM is an excellent accessory to my Forerunner 405, which I initially purchased without a HRM, and the additional data set will be a big help to me when charting my progress and seeing gains over the same terrain over time, not to mention a decent "zone" training aid when road cycling.

A VERY IMPORTANT ITEM OF NOTE that people tend to forget/ignore when using these HRMs is that you need to wet the contacts for an accurate reading. You can use water, or simply rub some spit on in a pinch, but I would recommend swinging by a running store and getting a bottle of gel - it's cheap and it lasts forever, plus in my experience it provides the most accurate data... which is what we're interested in with these toys, right? :)

Enjoy! I know I will - happy trails.

----

UPDATE, Feb. 11th: Just a brief follow-on update from my original pre-review.

After three runs, this HRM functions beautifully. I have zero data spikes, my 405 picks up the signal immediately, and I haven't even had to use my runner's electrode gel for the contacts; just wet the contacts in the sink and strap it on and go. Simply put, it works PERFECTLY.

It's also great having the training data to see which zone I'm training in or "Why did that run suck so hard?!"... oh, my hr was sky-rocketing and I was pushing too hard for event 'x'.

I would post an image here if I could so you could see the solid data and corresponding Garmin Connect screen capture.

Solid product, five stars. Garmin Premium Heart Rate Monitor (Soft Strap)

I don't know why Garmin won't package this version with their watches, as the premium heart rate strap actually works. I found the stock strap to be finicky and inaccurate, even with gel. The premium strap works right off the bat without gel and doesn't lose signal through-out the activity. It stays in place running, biking (on and off road), or hiking and is about as comfortable as they get. The snap closure in the front makes putting this on/off very easy. Overall I'd say this is as accurate as my polar strap, and a tad more comfortable. I always found polar to set the benchmark, but this takes it a little further in comparison and is a "no brainer" if you are having problems with the stock Garmin strap.

But now it's completely unreliable, I mountain and road bike 4 times per week, doing intervals for which I really need the hearth rate monitor. But if it's not tuned in from the beginning of my training it simply keeps it over 200bpm for hours or actually under 100bpm. I have tried creme, I soak it every time and sometimes it works fine but others NOT AT ALL... So I'm trying to find an alternative.

For the first 3 months, the strap worked great. It's much more comfortable than the standard garmin heart rate monitor. Now it consistently gives false, high readings. This morning I averaged 220 bpm on a run that really was around 150 bpm. I've tried wetting the strap contacts and using heart rate gel. The Garmin forum has an extensive discussion of the issue under the topic heading "Heart Rate Monitor gives me erroneous readings" or "Premium heart rate monitor (soft strap)". Basically, the thing is a piece of junk and I would recommend that you stick with the normal garmin monitor and not the premium version. I've used the cheaper model for 2 years with absolutely no problems.

I was really impressed with the other reviews of the Garmin Premium heart rate monitor so I forked out the extra money and purchased one. I use two Garmin devices, the Edge 705 and the Forerunner 405CX, and both came with their standard heart rate monitor straps. Many people reported better data from the premium heart rate monitor so I was most interested in that. However, after comparing nearly a month's worth of data, I don't really see any difference. I had been wetting the contacts like the instructions and other reviewers said, but the data looks the same to me.

The strap pairs easily with both of my devices, and I've never had a problem with it losing signal or not establishing a connection right away. At times, the standard issue straps took minutes or physically entering the menus to re-pair them to the device. Not so with the Premium strap.

While I don't know that I'd consider any heart rate monitor wonderfully comfortable, the Premium strap is definitely much more comfortable than the standard issue one.

I'm on the fence about the price... Amazon certainly has a better deal going than Garmin's website does, but it's still a heafty price tag for something that normally comes with the device and I feel only functions moderately better for the amount you pay. Certainly if you purchase a device that DOESN'T come with a heart rate monitor, I'd go for this one because of the comfort and the ease of pairing. But if you're purchasing a device that comes with one... I'm not sure that I'd recommend going out and buying this add on.

I purchased a second one for my husband who's build is larger than most, and he has yet to try it on. The true test will be if it fits his linebacker frame without modification.

I bought this strap because I misplaced the stock strap that came with my Forerunner 305, and the pricing on this strap was only a few dollars more than the replacement for the stock strap. Anyway, I am REALLY glad I lost that old strap! I never really had issues with the old strap, but then again, I never knew how good things could be! This strap is 100 times more comfortable to wear, and I find I get a HR reading almost instantly, compared to the minute or two it took the old strap to start reading. I also want to note I usually had to completely wet down the old strap with water in order to get a good reading, but this one I either wet a tiny bit or sometimes not at all and I still get a quick and accurate reading. Also, I like how the strap snaps together in the front. Makes for less twisting to get it on right.

One thing to note if you are using with the 305 (I can't speak for other models, but this may be the case with those as well)...you have to "link" the watch with the new HR strap otherwise you won't get a reading. This info is not located anywhere on the HR strap manual, so it took me a good 15 minutes or so of messing around with the watch to figure it out. I was about ready to return the thing thinking it was defective. - Garmin 405 - Hrm - Garmin - Garmin 305'

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