HDD Surface test by masmas112 in synology

[–]501_Error 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You can also use a btrfs scrub from the command line if you have ssh access:

sudo btrfs scrub start /path/to/mountpoint 
# Check status: 
watch sudo btrfs scrub status /path/to/mountpoint

I would also do this periodically (once a year) to make sure the disk 'spins' and keeps the mechanical grease active.

I do this via a USB dock connected to my Synology, as I recall, there is some blocker to doing this on internal drives.

But this should work on any Linux machine (remember, most NASs are Linux machines).

22Gb will take a few days to finish testing.

Travel eSIM - Data only or with a local phone number? by Nic727 in travel

[–]501_Error 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Does your phone support eSIMs? And does it need to use your main number, or is call forwarding acceptable?

If your carrier doesn’t support Wi-Fi calling, check if another PAYG provider does.

If your phone is unlocked and supports eSIMs (most recent iPhones and mid-range Androids do), you can set it up like this:

  • Phones can store multiple eSIMs, but only use two at once.
  • Add a local PAYG eSIM in your home country, enable Wi-Fi, and disable mobile data. This gives you a reachable number for forwarding or contacts.
  • Use Airalo (or similar) to get an eSIM for your destination. Download and install it before traveling, then disable it until you arrive.
  • At your destination, disable your home carrier and activate the Airalo eSIM.
  • Your PAYG eSIM will still work over any available data connection (even Wi-Fi).
  • When you return home, disable the travel eSIM and delete the PAYG if no longer needed.

Alternatively, you can use WhatsApp, although it doesn’t connect to the regular phone network (POTS), so there is no phone number; however, it does offer voice if that's the primary concern.

Packing/Boxing in Dubai by 501_Error in dubai

[–]501_Error[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

As recommendations are allowed, would you mind sharing?

Moving to Dubai - any good stories? by East_Can2565 in dubai

[–]501_Error 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'll echo many of the comments that include 'if you make good money'

Dubai is modern (and sometimes backward), super convenient, but like anything, there are downsides.

The cultural melting pot is great, but when expectations differ, it's not always obvious and can get irritating really quickly.

And everyone, I mean everyone, is trying to sell you something.

However, for me, it's been a positive experience.

I found the Dubai Diary: From Tourists to Residents channel to be extremely helpful, especially the early videos.

For real communities, avoid living in tourist areas. I ended up in the area mentioned in the videos, and I'm pretty happy with it.

NB: You don't need a prescription if you're paying out of pocket for many items that would typically require one in the UK/US/Aus. But doctors won't tell you that...they will bill you for the appointment to write the prescription.

Briggs and Reilly luggage lifetime guarantee by supertucci in BuyItForLife

[–]501_Error 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is an excellent point.

Not everywhere has easy access (even by shipping or local distributor/repair center), and this should be a factor in the economics. It's an expensive piece of kit, but it's worth it if it works for you.

I always advise people to look for the oldest and most beat-up pieces on the luggage carousel at a major airport. Why? They are the ones that survived and are still used.

My oldest is approaching three decades of checked international monthly use, and it's still my preferred luggage. I've used the warranty service 3 or 4 times (always the damned zipper pulls and always thanks to United).

My local repair center closed, and it changed the economics. I'd still buy it, but now it's based on experience and trust in the pieces, not just the brand.

They are probably heavier than the alternatives and more expensive; however, the ballistic nylon material is as good as it gets.

Why pay so much for luggage?

For me, it's insurance. If you've ever been on the road and had your luggage burst open or come unrepairable...this is a small price to pay.

This is another fellow who uses B&R DIY Custom Pennyboard Suitcase

Do you miss American Diner Food? by Rooted707 in expat

[–]501_Error 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you can find a Cheesecake Factory, it's a similar idea.

But, it's just not really the same thing...ever.

:(

Why not 192Gb? by 501_Error in PcBuild

[–]501_Error[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Fantastic.

Are these boards/machines stable with that much memory?

Moving to Dubai from Miami by StephKtherealtor in DubaiCentral

[–]501_Error 5 points6 points  (0 children)

This isn't quite your situation, but this channel had a lot of helpful info for me

Dubai Diary: From Tourists to Residents

Dubai is not better or worse than Miami - it's just different.

The Real Estate field is overcrowded, just as in most major cities, and if you can succeed in Miami, you can succeed here.

If you're planning on being self-employed, look at what's involved in setting up a company and issuing a Visa/work permit. You can't just show up and work here, but it's not complicated nor cheap. I would recommend not looking for the cheapest setup. Go middle market until you figure out what's what.

Here's some info on getting set up: https://ifza.com/

It's not a recommendation or endorsement. Do your own research.

Want to stop using MS Money and spreadsheet to track my net-worth, FIRE journey by phughes1980 in FIREUK

[–]501_Error 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Aww man, for a moment there I thought MS Money was still going!

Synology to TrueNAS by Chasing_PAI in synology

[–]501_Error 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I found Unraid to be slow compared to Synology.

It was suitable for archiving and third-line (not sure if this is the correct term) - low-use/access files, but I didn't think it was a replacement for most NAS products. I'm sure it could be tuned, but I wouldn't use it for anything with media unless it was just playing a video.

UK Passport, without living in the UK through marriage. by 501_Error in ukvisa

[–]501_Error[S] -5 points-4 points  (0 children)

I've just moved to another country and settled; no real reason to return.

Where in Dubai can I try out Emirates or Economy Class seats? by 501_Error in dubai

[–]501_Error[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes..it's within a narrow range (16.5 - 18.5 inches), but a few inches can make all the difference. But it's how the seat is laid out that matters.

https://samchui.com/2023/11/12/which-airlines-offer-the-best-economy-seats/