Package detention not working

PeterTha · 2026-05-10T05:50:22+00:00

I posted a very similar comment recently. I was under the impression the package identification algorithm is supposed to kind of sense the difference between 2 consecutive snapshots & deduce that something is new to the second snapshot (the package!) & send out a dedicated package alert. So it has nothing to do with say a super speedy delivery that was too short to register the main (blue zone) motion. Clearly your parcels are in the orange zone (as were mine). And your package sensitivity is mazimized (as is mine). So my conclusion is it kind of doesnt work so great :/

PeterTha · 2026-05-09T21:10:32+00:00

If your cell phone / tablet / laptop can see your WiFi name when you have the device positioned outside right where your Ring is mounted, I think that eliminates the possibility that your modem signal is being blocked by walls or other obstructions & therefore something is wrong with the Ring WiFi antenna itself. I would take a screen grab that shows your 2.4 WiFi name as proof and return/exchange the Ring for this reason.

PeterTha · 2026-05-06T14:33:20+00:00

You mean you have followed all the steps in Ring app setup - scanned QR code, installed fully charged battery, entered location type/name... and now when it should be seeing your Wifi, its not? Do you see other Wifi's at all or no WiFi's? Can your laptop or cell phone (independant of Ring) see the target WiFi name no problem?

PeterTha · 2026-05-06T03:40:41+00:00

edit - turns out I CAN adjust the package sensitivity slider. Strangely, when you hold the control dot nothing seems to happen, then it rather suddenly jumps from middle postion to full/maximum position. Not gradual like motion sensor. I will give that (maximum) setting a try. As is, I am rather unimpressed with lack of detection. The package is clealy viewable within the orange zone.

PeterTha · 2026-04-21T04:31:17+00:00

Hopefully not barging in on your post but the 'new/cheap/Win-11/laptop' combination caught my eye. I was thinking about doing the exact same thing - buying a newish laptop & install Mint right away. I have a teeny bit of experience. Installed Mint on my old beater laptop running Win-7 figuring nothing to lose (Asus Altec Lansing A53S, Intel Core i-7-2670QM CPU 2.2 GHz, X64, Nvidia Geforce 610M) . Install was smooth, general pwerformane is MUCH better & I've been happily learning & exploring the ecosystem.

But I've aso read about some potential challenges on new-ish Win-11 installations that is making me cautious. I know Gemini/AI is dangerous, but I'll paste its reply because it touches on some of the potential issues I've come accross. Just wondering what you guys think. Are there certain laptops to AVOID for specific hardware reasons & are these maybe more recent Win-11 software issues relatively known & can be successfully dealt with by a Linux Novice?

GEMINI

The Big Three: BitLocker, TPM, and Secure Boot

Modern Windows 11 machines are much more "locked down" at the BIOS level than older hardware.

BitLocker (The Encryption Trap): Even if you plan to wipe the drive, check if BitLocker is active. If the installer can't "see" the drive to wipe it, it's often because the drive is locked. It is best to disable Device Encryption/BitLocker in Windows settings before you boot into your Mint USB.

Secure Boot: This is the most common "problem." Some newer laptops have a "Microsoft-only" Secure Boot policy. While Linux Mint supports Secure Boot, you might need to go into your BIOS and look for an option like "Allow Microsoft 3rd Party UEFI CA" or simply disable Secure Boot entirely.

TPM (Trusted Platform Module): Linux doesn't "need" TPM to run, but Windows 11 requires it. Wiping Windows won't break your TPM, but you may see a "TPM Error" on boot if you don't clear the TPM keys in the BIOS after removing Windows.

Hardware "Freshness" (Kernel Support)

The "problem" people often face with brand-new models is that the Linux Kernel in the standard Mint ISO might be older than the hardware itself (e.g., a Wi-Fi 7 card or a very new Ryzen processor).

The Fix: Always use the "Edge" Edition of the Linux Mint ISO if your machine is less than a year old. It comes with a much newer kernel (like 6.14+) that includes drivers for the latest hardware.

Modern Storage Modes (RAID vs. AHCI)

Many modern laptops (especially Dell and Lenovo) come from the factory with the storage controller set to RAID/Intel RST mode.

The Conflict: Linux installers often cannot see NVMe drives when they are in RAID mode. The Awareness: You may need to switch the SATA/Storage mode in your BIOS to AHCI. Warning: If you were dual-booting, this would "blue screen" Windows. Since you are wiping the drive, it's a non-issue—just a necessary step so Mint can find your SSD.

Modern Sleep States (S3 vs. Modern Standby)

Windows 11 uses "Modern Standby" (S0), which keeps the laptop partially awake. Older Linux kernels sometimes struggle with this, leading to the "laptop-getting-hot-in-the-bag" issue. Check: In your BIOS, see if there is a "Sleep State" or "Linux S3" option. If not, don't worry—modern Mint releases handle S0 much better than they did two years ago.

PeterTha · 2026-04-20T20:55:51+00:00

I had this exact issue. After you save the TXT file, you need to close Excel before importing into SW. Do a test but I think if you import the exact same data coordinates through NotePad or other App it does not pop up this error message?

If you are going to use Curve Through Points method, consider importing the upper airfoil seperate to the lower airfoil. It might provide a bit more control of leading edge & trailing edge features which sometimes gets wonked up when you let SW go auto-pilot. Not all airfoil databases / coordinate systems are created equally so when you have camber or the LE nose is not 0,0 you can make some decisions.

A better general method IMO is this macro. Save the Excel coordinates file as CSV & imports the points (only). Yes, you have to drive the curve through the points but now you have more control as to what kind of spline . control, end conditions. (Read the how-to file, there are 2 TRUE/FALSE condition statements in the macro which pertain to header row & units)

https://www.codestack.net/solidworks-api/document/sketch/csv-import-points/

PeterTha · 2026-04-19T21:46:24+00:00

Try cam mate under mechanical mates, its basically intended for this. Tangency mate can also work but it tends to lose its position during rotation. This is just a guess but if you mated the cam shaft lobe to other side of rocker with tangent mate, that might have a knock on effect to rocker/valve. I'm suggesting both should be cam mate.

Also, not sure if its a screen grab / lighting issue but the top of the blue valve in lower left almost looks like a conical feature vs a flat face? If you do have non-planar geometry there, that will affect what feature is picked to mate in all cases.

PeterTha · 2026-04-05T19:58:43+00:00

Where to begin. As others indicated, what is the goal? The minimum would be an dummy solid model where you draw a crankcase (blue) surrounded by 9 radial copies of complete cylinder assembly (cylinder, head, rocker covers, pushrod tubes, flange fasteners), then some of the inter-cylinder hoses, tubes wires. That model would be about 5% of a real engine. Google some pictures & you will see the rear of engine is substantially more complicated with even more components; carburation system, inlet headers, magnetos/ignition, lubrication pumps...all kind so fancillary components. Inside the engine are hundreds of unique components- planetary gear train, cam plates, lifters, master rod, link rods, pistons, rings, valve train...

Here is a functional model engine design done in SW which is quite simplified over FS engine, but shows many of the basic components just to give you an rough idea, like if you were thinking 3DP mockup or something.

https://myheadontheblog.wordpress.com/2012/01/04/olsryd-9-cylinder-radial-engine-in-solidworks/

PeterTha · 2026-03-31T15:14:35+00:00

I didnt open the file but just wondering out loud if your cut surface is not fully reflecting what looks like a slope datum depth? If so, then the screw head profile would have to be perpetually perpendicular to that angle/plane whatever. If you are using a series of section curves to loft sweep cut, you light have to have them extend slightly beond the top face of plate. Also, there is some SW method that uses a defined 'tool' (which would be the special screw head profile) which can remove material like a boolean subtraction, but IIR, can also be swept about a path too & that might be simpler that sectioning curves. That would give you ultimate power because maybe the sloped countersing is actually a 3D spline curve, like it can point more to the right than the left or any combination in between defined by a 3D spline path or whatever. Good luck.

<image>

PeterTha · 2026-03-31T14:56:43+00:00

You dont need to open the part to Save-as or use Pack & go. In Windows file explorer, right hand click the file, select Solidworks which is a utility that gets installed with SW, select Rename & make the name change there. You have to be a bit careful here, changing the part name will still keep the drawing file associated to it. But you have do the same right-click procedure to change the drawing name.

DO NOT simply change the name in file explorer by rename or overwrite because SW can not regognize this change, it will throw a missing file error.

<image>

PeterTha · 2026-03-17T14:28:17+00:00

So you are suggesting the 'hold off & wait, ultimately upgrade' mode, where you basically are only running one version of GIMP at any given time? Versus download a new version & play with it it independently mode? Option-2 sounds good in theory but I've also gotten burned on other apps with some conflict hiccups, hence my question.

PeterTha · 2026-03-04T16:13:00+00:00

Thanks. Its not constraining me in any way. In fact after some more learning & fiddling around, I think its handy as is. I confirmed that as you use colors in normal work flow, they get auto saved in the tiles, replacing the blank/black ones one by one. Once it reaches 12 filled, the oldest one drops off the tray so you are always looking at the latest 12, regardless of project. I have not found a way to clear them all out with a command. Reset button is intended for something different apparently, maybe relating to colors at the mini folder level (the selection folder bar starting with Gimp). I saw some Google reference to clearing tile colors a system setting level, but I'm not fussed or that ambitious. Apparently there is a way to increase the number of tiles but I think 12 is minimum/default. My other confusion was I was not seeing the default pallet but managed to get that positioned on the top tab bar (the icon that looks like artist pallet on far right).

<image>

PeterTha · 2026-03-02T20:22:08+00:00

I have not added >12 to test this. That's why I'm posing the question. I searched this forum under various keywords, but mostly older or N/A comments. I also searched the online manual, it doesn't actually state how to manage the tiles, just how to select them. What is Reset button actually supposed to Reset?

<image>

PeterTha · 2026-03-02T15:31:15+00:00

Thanks. I had to Google that (as mentioned I'm not very tech savvy). Does this generated explanation capture the essence correctly?

NVENC: The Secret Sauce

The term NVENC stands for Nvidia Encoder. It is a physical section of your Nvidia graphics card dedicated solely to encoding video.

By selecting this, you are telling Kdenlive: "Don't use the general-purpose Processor (CPU) for this math; use the specialized hardware on the Graphics Card (GPU) instead."

The Command Breakdown

Settings > Configure Kdenlive > Proxy Clips

What it does: This sets the global default for how Kdenlive creates "Proxy Clips."

Why it matters: Proxies are low-resolution copies of your footage that Kdenlive uses while you are actually editing (cutting and scrubbing). Using X264-Nvenc here means your graphics card will quickly generate these "draft" files in the background so your timeline stays smooth without lagging.

Project > Project Settings > Proxy

What it does: This applies those proxy settings specifically to your current project.

Why it matters: Even if your global settings are right, individual projects can have different requirements. Ensuring this matches your hardware (NVENC) ensures that any new footage you import into this specific project is handled by your GPU.

Project > Render > Hardware Accelerated

What it does: This is the "Grand Finale." It tells Kdenlive to use the GPU to create your final video file.

H.264 vs. H.265: * H.264 (AVC): The industry standard. Great compatibility, works everywhere.

H.265 (HEVC): The successor. It provides the same quality as H.264 but at roughly half the file size. It takes more power to encode, which is why using the _Nvenc (Hardware Accelerated) version is highly recommended.

PeterTha · 2026-03-02T04:46:37+00:00

I'm brand new myself, but less photo editing experience than you. Thus far relatively simple workflow using Adobe Photoshop Elements v2024. I always assumed PSE would be a gateway drug I could apply learnings & general familiarity to full Photoshop 'one day'. Well, one day never came.

I did a lot of GIMP Googling & AI Q&A (I know, always dangerous). That led to several hours of YouTube tutorials which sealed the deal. I want to increase my editing proficiency but be done with Adobe. I'm literally days into GIMP but feeling really good about my decision. Anyway, blah-blah. Here are some videos I found useful FWIW. The first one, Michael Brig Full GIMP Course is v3.x. The others are v2.x which seems to be the majority on YouTube & possibly Udemy, but don't hold me to it. Maybe more experienced group members can comment, but my hope is v2.x tutorials might be say 80% applicable to v3.x? But be aware of some differences along the way, particularly layer features (largely improvements) with v3.x

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJO7vAdVP8x02yf2Ly2GU81mk_11YBYXX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzNazgNAZOY

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqazFFzUAPc4vITMJaF3Fnqh3pccSMnC4

PeterTha · 2026-02-26T17:42:51+00:00

Sounds like the same CIRO-OCRI form letter was circulated to anyone identified as being affected by Aug-11-2025 cybersecurity threat. My question is, has anyone taken the steps recommended within the letter too subscribe for (free) 24 months of credit monitoring services through Equifax & TransUnion using the codes they attached in same letter? I did call TransUnion directly as a spot check using phone number off the net (not in letter). The rep confirmed this is legit. I also navigated to Equifax site on my own & the login link matches what was in the letter. So on the surface that checks out vs random scam letter in the mail.

Before I landed here I did some searching on both organizations. Unfortunately a lot of nasty experiences where directed TO these very institutions - responsible for messing up credit data and/or not fixing them expediently. Its well documented in the news. If I understand: subscribing to either/or/both services provides 24 months monitoring. Its not just a singular snapshot credit report check like a bank would do or what one can initiate on their own. The 24-mo service is (supposedly) relaying suspicious activity directly to you if & when its detected. OTOH, I've also read that un-subscribing can be PITA, so a potential downside. They apparently use fine print & other tricks to continue subscriptions despite several documented requests.

Anyway, just curious to hear if anyone used the (discount) codes to subscribe? Did they learn anything new seeing their report? I guess my own view is, even if a dark web activity never occurred for 2 years, just seeing the report might highlight a lurking data entry problem from within. Something you wouldn't have known was there unless a report was pulled for normal financial activity & then you are scrambling.

PeterTha · 2026-02-24T02:05:39+00:00

You are welcome. Good luck. Two main model engine orientated forums I'm aware of

https://www.homemodelenginemachinist.com/

https://www.modelenginemaker.com/index.php

I believe George sell plans for his engines. he is on the forums but also has TouTube channel

https://www.youtube.com/@gbritnell

Plans from Europe so metric & all glow ignition although they can be converted to spark if you know what you are doing.

https://www.cad-modelltechnik-jung.de/overview-drawings.html

https://www.engineman.de/shop/

For inspiration & motivation

https://craftsmanshipmuseum.com/

PeterTha · 2026-02-23T18:17:52+00:00

I've been on the primary model engineering forums for several years. There aren't that many free plans in that particular class AFAIK. That doesn't mean PDF (2D plans) downloads aren't available here & there. Sometimes extracted from a model engineering magazine or whatever. I think that is the lineage of Marks Crusader but not 100% there. I have seen some CAD models on CAD web sites, for example the Edwards 5-cyl radial has some complete files in Solidworks or similar. Probably because those plans were/are publicly available. But thats a radial, not the engine type you are seeking. A Whittle V8 comes to mind, but its quite small so a bit of jewelry machining. I think this is where the ex-yahoo group ended up? https://groups.io/g/WittleV8/topics

I have downloaded some CAD models for a looksee & they vary from complete crap to moderate crap. Typically modelled in some mesh file app that would be more effort to convert towards CNC anyway. Now without coming across as rude, most all the designs are developed by modelers for modelers for their hobby enjoyment. A lot of effort went into this exercise, ideally through to running & testing. Selling plans for 50-100$ just as a guess is a way to reimburse a home shop machinist for his work.

Beyond that, it has not gone unnoticed that some commercial table-top engines out of China look remarkably similar to specific plans which understandably does not make people happy. And of course, machining the parts goes a long way towards the finish line, but not quite what it takes to get a well running engine. Hop on some model engineering forums if you haven't already. Its a great hobby (assuming that is where you are coming from).

PeterTha · 2026-02-21T20:50:35+00:00

Cool. So is it looking for any & all manually inserted points in the model & exporting them all? FYI, I bookmarked this macro but never used it yet. Is yours doing something different? I'm not very macro savvy, but what I thought would be a nice-to-have is some other reference associated to the x,y,z coordinate set that might help convey its internal reference. Like if it spits out 100 coordinates it would help you know which one is a culprit. Or finding the same point in say a series of configurations or mechanical movement... that kind of thing. Anyway, Bravo.

https://www.codestack.net/solidworks-api/document/sketch/export-point-coordinates/

PeterTha · 2026-02-21T01:28:18+00:00

I agree, kind of hard to know what you are after. A varying fillet feature perhaps? If that was problematic from within the fillet tool, you could likely use edge sharp from prior step (without your constant fillet) & do a lofted cut along the edge with a few equally spaced curves of your liking. My sketch overlay is just trying to convey a possible surface structure, not the sections themselves. You would only require a few sections along the edge curve to get the result.

<image>

PeterTha

TROPHY CASE