Technology

Amazon’s original Echo gets a much-needed upgrade

It’s been nearly two full years since the first Echo was made available to Amazon Prime subscribers. In that time, the company added six new members to the Echo family (seven if you count the Tap, which Amazon kind of, sort of does) — and in the case of the Echo Dot, did one full product refresh. Google entered the space in a big way with Home, and both Apple and Microsoft have their own takes arriving by year’s end.

The new Echo is more compact than the original. It’s also better looking, with six swappable shells designed to help it better blend in with its surroundings. The sound has been improved this time out, finally embracing the “speaker” part of the smart speaker category. Perhaps most importantly, however, it’s cheap. At $100, the new Echo is a full $80 cheaper than its predecessor — and $30 less than its closest competitor, Google Home.

Sound system

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In the past year, sound quality has become a much bigger priority for smart speakers. There’s the HomePod, of course, and the Google Home Max — both of which are being positioned as speakers first, with a smart assistant built in. There’s also been a recent deluge of third-party manufacturers like Sonos, Sony and Harman building their own premium systems, featuring Alexa and Google Assistant.

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The new Echo is not that. The sound is definitely improved over the earlier model, but for the time being, the company seems to content to let those third parties do the heavy lifting when it comes to building audio-first systems. That, after all, would mean a marked increase in sticker price, making the standard Echo prohibitively expensive for many users.

The addition of the 2.5-inch woofer and 0.6-inch tweeter (same as on the new Echo Plus) means the Echo’s not bad for a $99 speaker. It gets reasonably loud — I had it on a max volume for a bit in the office, and it was distracting but not deafening (sorry co-workers). It’s about the quality you’d expect from a cheap, portable Bluetooth speaker.

Undercover Echo

Rumors started circulating about a new Echo a few months back. The line was long overdue for an update, the competition was intensifying and Amazon appeared to be working its way through the last of its Echo back stock. At the time, leaks positioned the product as a HomePod competitor, a high-end device with a new design and premium audio positioned to compete against Apple’s $349 Siri speaker.

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Of course, ultra-premium has never really been Amazon’s speed. The Echo’s populist approach has always been a big part of its appeal a fact the Dot’s $50 price tag really drove home. Alexa users are primarily interested in finding an affordable way to make the smart assistant a part of their home, so the new Echo splits the difference on pricing while delivering some additional hardware perks that help it stand apart from the best-selling Dot.

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Increased competition from Google, et al. has been a great driver for the line. The new Echo is pretty much exactly what it should be: it’s smaller, better looking and has improved audio, all while staying under $100. Space is only going to continue to heat up over the next several years, and Google is certainly giving Amazon a run for its money with an extremely capable system and far better mobile distribution.

But the line is still synonymous with smart speakers, and Alexa gets more and more capable with each day. It’s not as affordable as the Echo Dot/Home Mini or as flashy as the HomePod/Home Max, but the new $99 Echo is going to sell like hotcakes this holiday season.

Technology

Sealing the Deal: How to Choose the Right Materials for Pipe Sealing

Pipes are an essential part of any plumbing system, and keeping them in good condition is crucial for the overall functionality of your home. One way to ensure that your pipes stay in top shape is by properly sealing them with the right materials.

In this guide, we will discuss the different types of materials used for pipe sealing and how to choose the best one for your specific needs.

Understanding Pipe Sealing

Before we dive into the details of materials for pipe sealing, it’s important to understand what pipe sealing actually means and why it is necessary.

Pipe sealing is the process of closing off any gaps or leaks in pipes to prevent water or gas from leaking out. This can be done for various types of pipes, including water supply pipes, drainage pipes, and gas pipes.

Proper pipe sealing not only prevents the wastage of resources but also protects your home from potential water damage and gas leaks.

Types of Pipe Sealing Materials

There are a variety of materials available for pipe sealing, each with its unique properties and uses. Some common types include:

Teflon Tape

Also known as plumber’s tape, Teflon tape is a thin, white tape made from PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) that is commonly used for sealing threaded pipe connections. It provides a tight, leak-proof seal and can withstand high temperatures and pressures.

Pipe Dope

Pipe dope is a paste-like substance made of oils, resins, and mineral fillers that is applied to the threaded part of pipes before they are connected. It creates a seal that is resistant to vibration and pressure fluctuations, making it a great choice for high-pressure systems. Unlike Teflon tape, which can be used only on threads, pipe dope can be applied to any connection needing a waterproof seal.

Pipe Plugs

Pipe plugs are physical barriers inserted into the ends of pipes to stop the flow of water or gas temporarily. They are often used during maintenance or repair work to isolate a section of the plumbing system without shutting off the entire system. Pipe plugs can be made from various materials, including metal, rubber, and plastic, each designed to withstand different pressures and temperatures. Knowing when and how to use pipe plugs effectively is crucial for anyone working on plumbing systems, as they provide a quick and easy solution for controlling the flow within pipes.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Needs

Now that you understand the different types of materials used for pipe sealing, how do you choose the right one for your specific needs? Here are a few factors to consider:

Type of Pipes

The first thing to consider is the type of pipes in your plumbing system. Different materials may be better suited for certain types of pipes, so make sure to choose one that is compatible.

Type of Connection

The type of connection also plays a role in determining the right sealing material. For threaded connections, Teflon tape or pipe dope would be suitable, while pipe plugs are ideal for temporarily blocking off non-threaded connections.

Pressure and Temperature

The pressure and temperature within your plumbing system should also be taken into account. Make sure to choose materials that can withstand the levels of pressure and temperature within your pipes.

Reliability and Longevity

Lastly, consider the reliability and longevity of the sealing material you choose. You want a material that will provide a long-lasting seal to prevent any future leaks or problems.

Conclusion

Proper pipe sealing is essential for maintaining a functional plumbing system and protecting your home from potential damage. By understanding the different types of materials available and considering key factors, you can choose the right material to ensure a tight and lasting seal for your pipes. Remember, when it comes to pipe sealing, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So take the time to choose the right materials and ensure the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing system.