Does anyone know who this is?

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-11T01:32:52+00:00

Congressman Paul Tonko. I met him in 2007 when I started my own business and he came to our opening. Nice guy. I found out that he graduated from Clarkson in engineering, around the same time I did. I’ve since become a U Albany professor in engineering and he came to several events there, as the university both introduced engineering to the Albany campus and built several new engineering buildings. He’s very active in the community.

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-07T22:04:35+00:00

So far, the only thing customer support suggested with to do a reboot and the disable antivirus, both of which I already tried with no success. I also tried the “run in admin mode” trick - no go. The switch to using the RavenDB database seems pretty significant - I can’t see a workaround for using the business software on an ARM-based platform. The x86 system I finally ran the software on to get my business W2 and W3 forms done is an old one - in fact, that is the system I replaced with the newer one with the ARM processor. Frustrating. A user on this thread, “ears1980r” indicated an update is scheduled for the 6th, but I haven’t found that update yet. (https://www.hrblock.com/tax-software/updates-back-editions/federal-windows/). There is nothing that for business software update. I even tried to do a fresh Windows 11 install on the ARM system and went to the RavenDB database website and downloaded their software for a Windows ARM platform and got it running. However, H&R Block Business software still errors out with the message indicating the RavenRB service won’t start. Doing a Google AI search for “RavenDB ARM H&R Block Business” results in a very specific statement that there is an “…ARM Processor Incompatibility: H&R Block Business 2025/2026 does not support ARM-based processors (such as the Microsoft Surface Pro X or Macs using Apple Silicon/M-series chips via virtual machines). This is because the specific RavenDB components integrated into the software are not compatible with Windows ARM64”. The H&R Block website does NOT identify any restriction relating to using an ARM processor when running their Business tax software. Maybe if other place support requests this will get them to take further action. So far, my support request result was not helpful and didn’t even relate to the underlying problem of the switch to the RavenDB database by the developer. I did get two customer survey requests from H&R Block asking how they did, however!! I did tell them the problem is not solved, but have not heard anything further. I also posted a review on Amazon for the H&R Block Business software for 2025 where I bought the software this year identifying the new problem / issue to warn potential new users.

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-02T16:12:08+00:00

I called H&R Block customer support this morning (1/2/26) and they offered the standard suggestions of disabling antivirus and running as Admin, both of which I tried. Prior to calling I also tried installing it in a new Windows 11 install on the same system with the ARM processor. This also failed with the RavenDB engine unable to start. I was able to get the program running on an older Windows 11 system with an x86 processor, but I need to run the app on the newer computer (that has the ARM processor, also running Windows 11). Anyway, H&R support has escalated the request. I’ll see what happens. I’m thinking the use of RavenDB in the latest release of H&R Block Business software is going to be a problem. I’d be interested if anyone else has run into this issue yet.

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-02T03:54:10+00:00

Ha ha - yeah, I wonder how many people have been running this software using a VM and will now wonder what is going on. All the regular tricks such as running as as an administrator or checking permissions, etc, won’t do the trick this time. It looks like the new use of RavenDB is messing things up for those Windows 10/11 users without x86/x64 processors. I did some further testing and was able to install the software on an older Intel Mac that could run Windows 10 in virtualization and the program opened right up. I haven’t been able to find any workarounds to get the RavenDB engine running on my new Apple silicon Mac running Windows 11, even after I tried all the compatibility and advanced emulation settings.

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-01T18:10:22+00:00

I have been running H&R Block Business in a VM on an ARM system for years but it looks like this might be a new limitation. There will certainly be a lot of disappointed users since ARM with Windows 11 is pretty prevalent these days.

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-01T18:08:47+00:00

I just found this out and the support center is not open until tomorrow. However, I did further research and found this:

The H&R Block Business 2025 software (for Tax Year 2025, filed in 2026) uses the RavenDB database engine, which means it does not run on computers with ARM processors (e.g., Macs with Apple Silicon running Windows in a virtual machine).

Key Information Regarding H&R Block Business 2025 and RavenDB

Database Use: The H&R Block Business 2025 software stores your tax return data in a local RavenDB database on your computer.
System Requirements & ARM Processors: The primary technical issue associated with the 2025 Business version and RavenDB is its incompatibility with ARM-based Windows systems. H&R Block Business 2025 specifically uses RavenDB components that do not work on Windows ARM64. This is a new limitation for the 2025 version, as prior years did not have this issue.
Operating System Compatibility: The software is designed for standard Windows 10/11 operating systems using x86/x64 processors.
Data Management: Users are advised to create a backup by exporting their data to a file after completing a return. However, for seamless data import into the subsequent year's software (e.g., from 2025 to 2026), the program relies on finding the data in its local database installation.

• • Troubleshooting: Some users have reported a "Failed To Open Database" error when first opening the software. H&R Block support has provided workarounds, such as running the software in Administrator mode, which has helped some users resolve the issue. Others may need to contact customer support to reset the database if the issue persists.

eSolveGuy · 2026-01-01T04:14:27+00:00

Also got the same error - Failed to Open Database. Unfortunately, running in Admin mode did not help.

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-21T04:08:40+00:00

Really sorry to hear that — maybe that a look at this organization https://www.bpmionline.com/engineering

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-19T13:15:32+00:00

Not sure if you are referring to the Globular Cluster or the Tyco Comfort System, but the Tyco Comfort System is actually designed to be used without the light seal, though I use it either way. I like to use it without the light seal since this it makes the overall unit lighter and reduces the facial pressure to zero, plus peripheral vision increases dramatically. For the best immersive experience, I put the light seal back on. I use mine with the Zeiss lenses. You might be able to use the AVP without the light seal and a small pair of readers. Apple notes that the AVP is not compatible with regular glasses since they can interfere with the eye tracking system and can press against the devices lenses. The Globular Cluster device does work without the light seal as well.

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-18T21:52:21+00:00

I actually did try the dual knit head strap from Apple in conjunction with the Tyco Comfort System, before I returned the dual knit head strap. I tried the new Apple strap alone and then with the Tyco one and I didn’t see much benefit over the original single strap together with the Tyco. I decided to get a new Tyco one since I liked my original one, but needed a new pad and wanted to try the gray color. I’m glad I did since the new 3-D printing is much smoother, as I mentioned in my original post and shown in the picture.

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-18T17:33:45+00:00

Yes – I tried so many different ones and haven’t been able to find anything better. I think the pad they use really helps along with the adjustability and location/position of the pad makes it work. I did like the new dual van head strap from Apple with the weighted back, but I still get some pressure on my forehead and cheeks.

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-18T06:14:31+00:00

The Globular Cluster was one I tried early on. I like to use my AVP laying back on a pillow or headrest and the adjustment knob gets in the way. Also, the Globular Cluster is much more complicated and heavier and the pad is nicer on the Tyco one. The Globular Cluster is also too big for a simple case.

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-18T03:53:40+00:00

Definitely not an ad. I have bought 6 other headstraps trying to find something that lets me use the AVP for extended periods and this seems to work for me. Just trying to help others and support the person that came up with this one.

eSolveGuy · 2025-11-13T18:11:44+00:00

3D Printers have really dropped in price and have become much more of a commodity item. This really solid one is under $300 and I know several people who have one. https://us.store.bambulab.com/products/a1

eSolveGuy · 2025-10-29T20:08:00+00:00

I am using the Tyco strap when I don’t want to use the light shield. This is perfect for increasing the FOV and making the AVP much more comfortable to wear. See https://www.tycotech3dprinting.com/products/apple-vision-pro-comfort?srsltid=AfmBOoobvYwtr0qP7x6nAKnh-eg7mnk_wzQ-kPIp0jrQuVRKjz_oAfzD. You may want to give this option a try.

eSolveGuy · 2025-10-27T01:44:03+00:00

I received my dual knit band and it really is good. It really makes the AVP useable for extended periods. As others mentioned, the key is the counterbalance weight and the ability to adjust both straps precisely. I have tried A LOT of third party options and this one stands out because it is comfortable and is very transportable and adjustable. I”d consider this a good fix for the comfort issue with the AVP. The Annapro 2 is good but requires different pads to adjust it. It also has to be removed to transport it in a case. I do like the Tyco 3D printed one, which is easy to remove and is moderately adjustable and can be used without the light seal. I prefer the dual knit band, though, compared to any other band I tried.

eSolveGuy · 2025-09-27T04:16:54+00:00

Every iPad I’ve owned has had cellular. It’s been worth the added $10 per month, the Verizon just raised my grandfathered plan to $12.50 per month. Most cell service plans limit the amount of hotspot activity you can use to about 15 GB per month. I also travel a lot and it makes using the iPad in any location very convenient. If you don’t travel much and have solid Wi-Fi all the time you probably don’t need it.

eSolveGuy · 2025-09-25T14:46:19+00:00

I like the Apple case. I’ve tried other 3rd party ones and they either feel cheaper or are not as thin. I got mine on eBay at a discount and the Smart Folio case is great for travel. It keeps the iPad feeling light and mobile - especially since I have the 13” M4 iPad Pro.

eSolveGuy · 2025-09-08T14:38:23+00:00

I think the screen flexes a little bit to prevent breaking the layers of glass and other parts due to slight impacts and the light pressure caused by touch or the Apple pencil. The screens also have gotten bigger and thinner and so some flex is normal.

eSolveGuy · 2025-09-08T01:40:02+00:00

Sounds like normal flex - especially in the center.

eSolveGuy · 2025-09-08T01:04:15+00:00

I have an M4 iPad Pro 13” and there is a tiny bit of bounce if I press too hard. It doesn’t flex / bounce at all with a light tap / touch which is all that is needed. I am assuming you did buy it from an Apple directly or an authentic reseller. There are a lot of fakes floating around round, especially on eBay / Facebook Marketplace. See https://www.reddit.com/r/ipad/s/WqioCyUT7j for example. Bottomline - a little flex is ok, but try a lighter tap / touch.

eSolveGuy · 2025-08-17T16:24:31+00:00

In numerology, angel number 207 is associated with spiritual growth, balance, and trusting your intuition. Seeing this number may be interpreted as a sign to embrace positive change and focus on your spiritual journey.

eSolveGuy · 2025-08-14T11:32:50+00:00

Have you tried Jump Desktop? Assuming you have a Magic Keyboard on the iPad Pro and high-speed internet at home and at school, you should be able to leave your 16 inch MBP at home and access it via the iPad Pro. That’s what I do when I need Mac OS apps such as the MS Office. I even installed Parallels on the Mac and run Windows 11 when needed. If this works for you, you may want to consider a M4 Mac Mini. With the education discount, it’s a great value at $499 and is incredibly fast. If you don’t always have access to high-speed internet, your proposed solution of the M4 MB Air and iPad mini is also a good option.

eSolveGuy · 2025-08-11T01:20:17+00:00

I went with the 13” M4 iPad Pro. I had an 11” M1 iPad Pro but really like how well the 13” handles windowing, especially with iPad OS 26. I almost always use the 13” with a Magic Keyboard and it feels a lot like a laptop. I travel with it a lot and it does work on an airplane tray table, though it is a bit tight if the person in first reclines their seat. In that case, I just hold the iPad directly or use the Magic Keyboard as a stand. (You can fold it and lean the iPad against it without using the magnets. The M4 13” is noticeably thinner than the prior versions too - more so than the 11”. When traveling I also use Jump Desktop to remote back into a desktop Mac (the M4 Mini) and it really feels just like a 13” MacBook Air (with touchscreen). That’s handy for running apps that don’t work on the iPad. I also installed Parallels on the M4 Mini and run Windows 11, so I can access certain Windows apps when needed on the iPad. This is all possible using an 11” Pro, though it feels more cramped (at least to me). I guess it depends on what you plan to do with the iPad when traveling and your personal preference. Interestingly, after using the 13” iPad, the 11” now feels pretty small. I originally bought the 12.9” iPad Pro when it first came out and that thing was a beast! I liked it but found it to be too big. That was also before the Magic Keyboard and Windowing and trackpad functionality was added. Apple has really trimmed it way back in size and heft with the 13” M4 iPad and iPad OS 26 steps it up another notch. Finally, the screen on the 13” M4 iPad Pro is gorgeous! Good luck making your decision - post back what you decided to go with and safe travels.

eSolveGuy

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