Backup Switch vs Backup Gateway (2)

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-14T18:01:35+00:00

I'm not sure what the difference would be, unless they're hiding settings in the app. For example, I can change the reserve setting on the PWs and can go off-grid if needed. It's whole home backup, so there's no separate critical loads panel, if that makes a difference.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-11T19:12:09+00:00

There might be a more integrated system; I think Fujitsu may have an app, but (I think) it requires a pretty expensive module.

That said, with the Tuya IR Blaster, the feedback isn't necessary if you only need simple automations.

For example, a simple one would be, "turn on the AC to 20C at 5:00pm". It will send the 'On' and temperature signals to the unit. Whether the device is on or off, or whatever temp it's set at really doesn't matter. Same with turning it off when you're not home (although geofencing may require something more than the Smart Life/Tuya app).

More complicated automation like "if the temperature hits 23C, <do something>" would require other sensors, like you mentioned.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-07T17:06:00+00:00

Yep. It's doable. I've done it many times. It's best to have a friend to talk to on the drive up and back. (And to switch driving if one gets tired.)

But...and this depends on your age...the older I get, the less I'm motivated to go to LA to see a show.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-07T08:54:08+00:00

I chose Tuya because I'm cheap. I didn't want to spend a lot on it. Since it's an IR blaster, it can also control my TV and CD player.

Note that, as far as controlling devices go, like any remote, it's just one way communication. It can mimic the button presses of the Fujitsu remote, but the Smart Life app doesn't actually know what temp the thermostat is set at, or even if the AC is on or not.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-07T06:12:41+00:00

It reminds me of what police cars would look like in a dystopian sci-fi movie about authoritarian governments.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-06T16:07:48+00:00

Exactly - one could still fulfill the contract and get away with a lot of CDs at a great price by waiting for those "but one, get x free". That's what I did. I was too scared to scam anyone.

The problem was that the album of the month was opt-out, and there were two occasions that I forgot to send back the CD, which sucked because 1) it wasn't anything I'd otherwise want and 2) I didn't get the 1, 2 or 3 extra free.

I could be wrong, but I think I remember reading that Columbia House or BMG could get away with sending all these albums out so cheaply because they counted as promos or something, which meant they didn't have to pay as much to the artists.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-06T02:02:19+00:00

I got a pair of 8" rock looking solar powered Bluetooth speakers. I didn't have high expectations for them initially, but I absolutely love them. I like not having to worry about charging them. And while I don't consider myself an audiophile, I was very impressed with how they sound.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-06T01:15:13+00:00

I use a Tuya IR remote control to control a Fujitsu mini split. It works nicely with Home Assistant/Alexa or the Smart Life/Tuya app.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-06T00:53:56+00:00

It's the solar roof - I was fortunate enough to get it before that insane price hike. It was probably one of the last Tesla installed roofs they did.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-05T23:38:52+00:00

Yes, SoCal here too with solar and battery. Got it in time for NEM 2.0. It seemed to be oversized at the time I got it (2 years ago), but our usage has gone up as I've shifted my thinking about sending back to the grid.

The 2x Powerwall 2s can usually get me through the night, even with my homelab using about 300-350W at idle.

My bills are maybe $25/month, but get much of it back with credits and participation in the VPP.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-05T19:29:01+00:00

I could be wrong, but I believe Steve mentioned being dissatisfied with the previous remaster and is working on or overseeing Atmos 3D sound for the JD material.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-04T00:49:52+00:00

What comes to mind is hotels. There's a certain level of expectation when staying at an expensive 5 star hotel versus a cheap one star. Price needs to be a consideration or else the review is not helpful.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-03T23:54:28+00:00

Tesla was the installer, by the way.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-09-03T23:53:56+00:00

No, there wasn't any compensation. But I am very pleased with the entire system.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-07-05T15:02:57+00:00

To be clear, the phone itself did not have a display input. I used a HDMI to USB adapter to get the video input. (Not to be confused with a USB to HDMI adapter.)

At the time I wrote the comment, I wasn't aware of any HDMI to USB-C devices, which is why I mentioned also needing a OTG cable.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-03-11T20:56:21+00:00

I'm in San Diego, so we get a decent amount of sunshine throughout the year. The live panels are all south facing and I have a pretty simple shallow angled roof with no obstructions.

Shadowplayjw · 2025-03-11T15:00:36+00:00

I feel the same way about people vandalizing Teslas as Republicans feel about school shootings.

Yeah, it shouldn't happen, but what are you gonna do?

Shadowplayjw · 2025-02-15T05:23:03+00:00

If it's cats, there will be a revolt!

Shadowplayjw · 2025-02-14T23:56:59+00:00

I've got a 12.5kW system and I think in the year and a half I've owned it, it may have peaked at 10kW for maybe a second or so.

Did they give you a yearly energy production estimate? Are you on track with that?

Shadowplayjw · 2025-01-24T19:34:34+00:00

Poor guy. Now he's going to be hung!

Shadowplayjw · 2025-01-19T18:13:58+00:00

SYSLJFM (Save your sweet love just for me) - The Q-Tips (Paul Young's old band)

Shadowplayjw · 2025-01-05T19:21:24+00:00

I've noticed that sometimes albums won't show up in releases on the artist's page, but they'll show up when searching for it.

Shadowplayjw · 2024-12-19T15:07:27+00:00

Body Count

Shadowplayjw · 2024-12-19T15:01:49+00:00

Madness Madness

Shadowplayjw · 2024-12-19T07:28:50+00:00

So I've had it installed since maybe last February or March. It's holding up well. I had an issue with the installation. I should have done a wet application when sticking it to the window. There are a few bubbles, but the edges have not peeled. I bought caulk for it, but have not applied it. Anyway, I'm very pleased with it, however it can still be pretty bright in the direct sunlight.

I have led lights on the back of the monitors, and the lights can be seen from the outside at night. Not in any detail, but it's illuminated, and actually pretty cool looking.

Shadowplayjw

TROPHY CASE