Archives for August 2023

Happy Tuesday & Happy National Bowling Day! It’s the perfect day to grab your most fashionable bowling shoes, grease up your ball, call a few friends and head to the bowling alley! 🎳

In This Issue: Finding Relaxation in Cleaning | Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series | What Are Copper Transceivers? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Finding Relaxation in Cleaning

Good Morning & Happy Tuesday! Hope everyone had a great weekend! Mine was actually a fairly quiet, uneventful weekend which is kind of rare these days, but I enjoyed it! I tried to take advantage of the time by doing some deep cleaning around the house.

The older I get, the more I really value having a clean, organized home. Being in a messy environment makes me feel anxious and unsettled. I’m a big fan of the saying, “a place for everything, and everything in its place”.

Fortunately, I actually find cleaning to be a pretty relaxing activity. Putting on some music and spending a few hours cleaning doesn’t bother me a bit! Too bad I didn’t have this same mentality as a kid! It turns out that a lot of people actually like cleaning. According to a 2021 survey, 75% of millennials and 82% of Gen Z say they enjoy cleaning.

Here are some of the top reasons why people love cleaning according to a Real Simple article:

1. Affords a sense of accomplishment
2. Calms your mind
3. Offers a sense of control
4. Reduces stress
5. Can be a form of meditation
6. Boosts mood
7. Reflects who you are
8. Is a means of self care

I definitely agree with most of these! What about you!?

Rebecca

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Product Spotlights & Updates

The Cisco 3850 Series of switches is an industry-leading, enterprise-class series of access switches that offers superior performance, scalability, and reliability. The Catalyst 3850 Series is the first to feature a built-in wireless controller with up to 40 Gbps of capacity on 48-port models. Further, it supports up to 100 access points and 2, 000 wireless clients per switching entity (or stack). These switches are stackable up to 9 members and come equipped with Cisco’s popular StackPower technology.

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Learning Center Article – What Are Copper Transceivers?

In data centers and other high-speed networks, you often rely on fiber optics to supply enough bandwidth. Despite that, even the most advanced networks still benefit from enabling Ethernet devices. How do you reconcile the two?
In many cases, copper transceivers provide the answer.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• The SoftBank group reported a net loss attributable to owners of the parent of 477.6 billion yen ($3.3 billion), well below a Refinitv analyst estimate anticipating a 75 billion yen profit.
  Palantir Technologies raised its annual revenue target on Monday as it sees an opportunity to commercialize AI, but not all analysts are convinced.
• Warner Bros. Discovery plans to simulcast live games on cable TV and Max streaming in October.
• Paramount Global reached an agreement to sell book publisher Simon & Schuster to private equity firm KKR for $1.62 billion.
• Boeing said Monday it aims to be ready to fly NASA astronauts with its Starliner capsule for the first time by March.

Happy Monday! We hope you had a restful & adventurous weekend. Cheers to a great week ahead! 🥂

In This Issue: The Dawn of New Tech? | Cat6 Ethernet Cable | What Are the Differences Between a Switch and a Bridge? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – The Dawn of New Tech?

Happy Monday!

If you’ve been following science news you may have heard about LK-99 claims which is a development of a room-temperature superconductor. As of this writing, there’s still scientific debate on the findings, and whether or not they are replicable or a hoax, but what fascinates me more are the implications of the technology. I’ve read that room-temperature superconductors could enable all sorts of new technology, and that’s what interests me the most:

Super-efficient energy grids and renewable energy systems
Lower cost Superconducting Maglev Trains (high speed trains – that are faster than current trains)
Accessible and widespread quantum computers (that no longer need to be cooled to extreme temperatures)
Cheaper and more efficient MRI technology
More reliable data transmission and storage in Data Centers
Electric Propulsion systems for aircraft and spacecraft
Lighter and more efficient electric cars

I’m hoping that the results are verifiable and that this technology, LK-99, is real, and I’m excited to see what comes next. Even if not substantiated, it’s brought a lot of great publicity into the field, and I hope other scientists and companies explore room-temperature superconducting technology!

You can read more about it here.
I hope you have a sense of wonder this week and have a great day!

Cris

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Why plan ahead when you can work on the fly with our 1000’ pull box, 550MHZ UTP of blue Ethernet cables. Our bulk Ethernet cables are specifically created for installers and administrators. With a pure copper construction, these high-quality cables are ideal for vertical runs across multiple floors or in conduit. Have the cables you need, when you need them with CablesAndKits.

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Learning Center Article – What Are the Differences Between a Switch and a Bridge?

Putting together a single, small network is relatively easy. Things really get complicated when you need to join multiple networks together. That’s where concepts like bridging come into play, and understanding the specific technology options available for this aspect of network design is essential to success.

To that end, you’ll find a simplified breakdown of bridges and switches below. It will help you see how devices can be leveraged to join networks and the trade-offs attached to those devices.”

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• A range of companies are pulling back on perks as they chase higher margins.
• Automation is expected to reduce certain jobs in the coming years.
• Apple’s decline Friday was its worst day so far in 2023, and its largest loss since Sept. 29 last year.
• Hua Hong is China’s second-largest chip foundry after Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp.

Happy Friday, everyone! It’s time to kick off those work shoes and slide into a relaxing weekend. Whether you’re planning adventures or simply enjoying some well-deserved rest, may your weekend be filled with laughter, joy, and cherished moments.

In This Issue: Free Return Shipping | CAT8 Ethernet Cable | Advantages of Multi-Gigabit Switches in Business | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Free Return Shipping

Happy Friday, folks! My wife & I recently visited the small town of Dahlonega, GA. It’s a neat town with some great places to eat. We also shopped in the small shops there. I remember walking into a store there (it might have been a consignment-style shop), and the store had signage all over the place saying “”no returns or exchanges.”” I immediately thought, I better know that I need something in here if I’m going to buy it.

That experience is rare for your brick & mortar stores now. However, when buying online, returns and exchanges are offered but most sites. What isn’t covered by most stores, though, is Free Return Shipping! Even Amazon now wants me to take my return back to a UPS Drop Off location or a Kohl’s.

Here at CablesAndKits, we know it can be challenging to project exactly what you need for a project. Or maybe you’re new to our list and still testing the waters. We get it (and we get IT). Just buy some extra cables or transceivers. We’ll give you a free return shipping label to send back the extra! 🚚

What stores have you purchased from that wowed you with their shipping or returns process?

Have a great weekend!

Chris

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Our S/FTP (Each pair Foil shielded / 4 Pair Braid Shield) Booted Category 8 (Cat8) Ethernet Patch Cables are the newest addition to the network cabling family and have hit the ground running ! With the ability for 40gb and 2GHz bandwidth transmission over 20 meters, these network data cables are a Data Center Manager’s dream to handle the speeds that their network and users need. These patch cables are backward compatible with both Cat6 and Cat5e, and all previous categories.

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Learning Center Article – Advantages of Multi-Gigabit Switches in Business

When it comes to computer systems and servers, you have a lot of data to manage. It’s normal to want robust backups so that you never lose important information. At the same time, backups are costly, and they can slow down server systems.

In order to find the best options for various goals, you can manage storage disks in a number of different ways, and one of the most trusted and popular options is to implement RAID.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Electric truck maker Nikola said on Friday that its CEO, Michael Lohscheller, will step down effective immediately due to a “family health matter.”
• Electric vehicle startup Fisker on Friday reported a second-quarter loss that was narrower than expected.
• Travelers are increasingly opting for destinations abroad at the expense of dometic trips.
• Laptops and tablets are among a handful of electronics that will require a license to be imported into India, according to a government notice published Thursday.

Happy Thursday & Happy National Watermelon Day! Watermelon is the perfect refreshing summertime treat, and since watermelon is 92% water, it is very satisfying in the summer heat. Enjoy! 🍉

In This Issue: Peace on the Lake | Cisco 3850 Accessory Kit | What is a RAID? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Peace on the Lake

Happy Thursday!

A few weeks back, I went on a relaxing tandem kayaking excursion on a lake. It was a day marked by harmony with nature and inner tranquility. I love connecting with nature. Being out in the water with nothing around us but sun and wildlife was exactly what I needed. While paddling through the water, my fiance and I found a serene spot in the shade and I lost myself in the pages of a book. The story blended seamlessly with the soothing background of lapping waves, birds, and a gentle breeze. I finally found the solace needed to unwind from a long week. It reminded me of the true power of nature and the beauty of this wonderful planet God created for us.

This experience will always serve as a timeless memory, proving that amidst life’s chaos, nature’s simple offerings can provide the much-needed balm for the soul. I find myself longing to go back for another relaxing day.

Joi

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Product Spotlights & Updates

The Cisco 3850 Accessory Kit provides all the necessary components for a basic installation and setup of a Cisco Catalyst 3850 switches. The kit includes a 19-inch rackmount, a power cord and a Usb console cable. Additional components such as network cables and transceivers may be required depending on the specific installation requirements.

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Learning Center Article – What is a RAID?

When it comes to computer systems and servers, you have a lot of data to manage. It’s normal to want robust backups so that you never lose important information. At the same time, backups are costly, and they can slow down server systems.

In order to find the best options for various goals, you can manage storage disks in a number of different ways, and one of the most trusted and popular options is to implement RAID.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• ESPN has held talks with the NBA, NFL, MLB and the NHL on being minority partners in the network.
• The Writers Guild of America told striking screenwriters that Carol Lombardini, the studio negotiator, requested to talk Friday about the possibility of resuming negotiations with the guild.
• Qualcomm reported third-quarter earnings on Wednesday that beat Wall Street expectations, but revenue and guidance for the fourth quarter came up short.
• India is an important market for AMD to keep up with the growing demand for its products, the firm’s CTO told CNBC in an exclusive interview on Thursday.

Happy Wednesday! We’ve reached the midweek mark. Take a moment to acknowledge your progress and give yourself a pat on the back. Wishing you a happy Hump Day filled with productivity and a smooth journey towards the weekend. You’ve got this!

In This Issue: 17 of 26 and counting! 📖 | Cisco Meraki MX64 Security Appliance | What Is an SSD? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – 17 of 26 and counting! 📖

Good morning, Happy Wednesday, & Happy August CK family! What a week.
As each new month arrives, I often find myself reflecting on my goal of reading 26 books this year. I used to read ALL the time until I went to grad school. Then, my joy of reading really fell off the deep end because I spent so much time reading textbooks, research papers, etc. But lately, I’ve been sparking the love that I used to have and lately, I’m on a role.

I’ve officially read 17 books. 9 more to go to reach my goal, and I’m feeling good about it. I’ve been keeping a running list of what I’ve read so far – here are my top 3 reccomendations:

The Tattooist of Aushwitz by Heather Morris
Don’t Let Her Stay by Nicola Sanders
Ground Zero by Alan Gratz

Lately, I’ve also been really enjoying listening to audio books. I found myself spending more time than I wanted watching Netflix in the background while doing various things and decided that instead of doing that, I’d give audiobooks a try. I’ve enjoyed doing this! Do you like listening to audio books? If you’re anything like my husband, you might feel like you’re listening to a lecture but I think if you find a good one – they are fun to listen to!

I’m hoping I can continue to keep on track with completing my goal while welcoming a little one into the world – I’ll keep you updated as we approach the end of 2023.

Do you have a goal you’re working towards achieve by the end of the year?
Hope you have a wonderful week!

Ashley

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Product Spotlights & Updates

The MX is 100% cloud-managed, so installation and remote management is truly zero touch, making it ideal for distributed branches, campuses, and data center locations. Natively integrated with a comprehensive suite of secure network and assurance capabilities, the MXeliminates the need for multiple appliances. These capabilities include application-based firewalling, content filtering, web search filtering, SNORT®-based intrusion detection and prevention, Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP), site-to-site Auto VPN, client VPN, WAN and cellular failover, dynamic path selection, web application health, VoIP health, and more.

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Learning Center Article – What Is an SSD?

When it comes to IT spending and getting the right hardware, it’s always a matter of knowledge. When you truly understand the risks and rewards of each purchasing decision, you can optimize your spending and get the most value out of your limited budget.

There are countless comparisons to make in this regard, which is why it’s always easier to break things down one concept at a time.
Today, we’re going to cover solid-state storage, or SSDs

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• CVS Health on Wednesday reported second-quarter earnings and revenue that beat expectations.
  Starbucks’ quarterly earnings topped Wall Street estimates, but the company’s sales were weaker than expected.
• Walmart is pushing into in-store advertising to capitalize on its huge reach and chase growth in higher-margin businesses.
• Amazon internal information is finding its way onto messaging apps such as Telegram, where brokers are selling data to third-party sellers.
• Google announced a reorganization within its Assistant unit as the company races to prioritize advancements in artificial intelligence, according to internal emails.

Happy Tuesday & Happy 1st Day of August! Can you believe it’s already August?! Time is flying by. What do you hope to accomplish this month?

In This Issue: Tis the Season? | Cisco Compatible Console Cable | Benefits of Cisco 3850 Switches | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Tis the Season?

Good Morning & Happy Tuesday!

Hope everyone is off to a great start this week! It’s hard to believe we’ve already made it to August! I love the summertime and know we have many more weeks of hot temperatures to go, but it’s a fun time of year to start dreaming of Fall and, of course, college football season being right around the corner!

I went to Hobby Lobby over the weekend for the first time in a while and they have got SO MANY Christmas decorations out already! Like, what in the Mariah Carey is going on!? It’s hard for me to even think about Christmas when the heat index is over 100! I never remember seeing holiday items in stores in July until maybe a year or two ago. Apparently this practice of putting these items out earlier and earlier in the year is known as “Christmas creep,” and it’s not a new thing. Stores have been pushing Christmas sales earlier in the year for decades, but it seems like the “creep” became a “leap” in recent years due to being exacerbated by the pandemic.

I don’t know about you, but I just can’t get into the Christmas spirit in July! It seems like others must feel the same way because those aisles were empty over the weekend. Makes me wonder if retailers are about to find that the “line” for when to put this stuff out has been crossed and it’s time to move it back a little… or, on the flip side, if we’re all just weeks away from hearing “All I Want for Christmas is You” over the loudspeakers in stores!? It’s anybody’s guess!

Rebecca

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Upgrade your network with our brand new 6 foot, Cisco Compatible Light Blue USB A to RJ45 Rollover Console Cable. These cables will console your IT network by helping you communicate and configure a networking device. Console cable utilizes USB 2.0 to facilitate the console function. The USB A portion attaches to the USB port of your computer or laptop and the RJ45 attaches to the device. This type of one piece cable replaces older “kits” that contained multiple cables and adapters. This newer type of console cable is compatible with most Cisco equipment.

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Learning Center Article – Benefits of Cisco 3850 Switches

Sometimes, designing a network is complicated. You’re trying to squeeze power and resources out of what you have while minimizing costs and maximizing reliability. It’s an equation with constantly changing variables, and it’s enough to keep network engineers and administrators busy for their entire careers.

Other times, things are a lot simpler. You want as much networking power as you can possibly get while still supporting your existing systems.

In other words, you need to push Ethernet and traditional wireless beyond what they normally do. The goal is straightforward, and that makes a solution easy to find. For such a project, you need Cisco 3850 switches.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Combined, “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” have grossed more than $1 billion globally.
  A $2 billion mega-deal between cannabis multistate operators Cresco Labs and Columbia Care has gone up in smoke more than a year after the companies announced the acquisition.
• The U.S. National Institutes of Health said it launched mid-stage clinical trials to test at least four treatments, including Pfizer’s antiviral Covid-19 pill Paxlovid, as potential therapies for long Covid.
• Apple’s iPhone 15 will reportedly feature some major changes.
• Elon Musk’s X Corp., formerly known as Twitter, erected a giant lighted X sign on the roof of its headquarters Friday.