Archives for August 2025

We made it to Friday! 🎉 Today is National Sport Sampling Day! Time to try a new sport or dust off an old favorite. With the long weekend ahead, what fun activities are you planning?

In This Issue: Core Values That Carry Us Forward | Deal of the Day | LC-LC OS2 UPC Fiber Patch Cable | Datacenter Airflow Management Guide | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Core Values That Carry Us Forward

Friday’s here, cheers to making it through the week! 🎉 Before we head into the long weekend, I just want to share a quick thought on what makes CK such a special place to work.

The core values highlighted in our CEO’s update last Friday are still very much alive and thriving at CK today. Craig and Christin set the tone early on, and those values continue to ripple through the company in how we work and how we treat people.

What really stands out is that everyone here doesn’t just work hard or push themselves to grow each day. They also genuinely care about others, both inside and outside the office. That mix of excellence and compassion is what makes the CK culture so unique, and why our values are more than just words on a page.

Here’s to carrying that spirit into the long weekend! ✨

Brooke

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

OS2 9/125μm singlemode fiber patch cable with LC to LC duplex connectors for secure, low-loss connections. Supports transmission up to 10km at 1310nm and 2km at 1550nm. Durable OFNR jacket makes it ideal for telecom, outdoor, underground, and riser applications.

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Learning Center Article – Datacenter Airflow Management Guide

Running a data center comes with plenty of challenges. And something that frequently floats to the top of those challenges is heat management. Keeping those powerful devices cool requires careful planning and constant effort. And it gets expensive. With applied airflow management, you can find solutions that help you stay on top of cooling, keeping costs low, designs efficient, and productivity up.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Labor Day Weekend Forecast: No tropical systems on the radar, but some areas may see rain. Many can expect cooler “false fall” temps before the heat returns in September. 
• Health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak tied to eggs, with at least 95 cases reported nationwide. California-based Country Eggs has recalled its large brown Sunshine Yolk eggs with sell-by dates from July 1 through September 16.
• Krispy Kreme is sweetening Labor Day weekend. From Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, buy any dozen and get an Original Glazed dozen for just $2.
• After acquiring prebiotic soda brand Poppi, PepsiCo is launching two new sodas in its classic flavors: Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla. Each can has just 30 calories, 5g of cane sugar, and 3g of prebiotic fiber for better gut health. The new line hits online shelves this fall and retail stores in 2026.

Happy Thursday! Today is National Thoughtful Day—a perfect reminder to spread a little kindness. A simple message, a warm smile, or helping hand can go a long way. What’s a thoughtful gesture you’ve appreciated lately?

In This Issue: The Strength of Integrity, Service & Excellence | Deal of the Day | Outlet Surge Protector | How to Calculate PoE Budgets | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – The Strength of Integrity, Service & Excellence

Happy Thursday, everyone!

I’ve been reflecting on how our core values really influence the way we work together. When we focus on integrity, service, and excellence, they help us stay centered and clear about what matters most.

It’s not just about checking things off a list. It’s about how we approach the work. We support one another, think carefully about our choices, and bring intention to everything we do.

Our values remind us that progress isn’t just about speed. It’s about moving forward with purpose. When we build on trust, humility, and care, we’re creating something meaningful together.

Sterling

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This power strip protects against damaging electrical spikes and surges. It is designed to provide safe power and filter Radio Frequency (RFI) and Electromagnetic (EMI) Interference. The LED surge protection light indicates that the unit is protecting against surges and spikes.

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Learning Center Article – How to Calculate PoE Budgets

PoE is one of the greatest things in networking. It allows you to power a device with an Ethernet cable. This cuts on infrastructure costs and gives you a ton more flexibility in how you design a network. But, PoE does have limitations. You can only draw so much power from a single switch and figuring that out is essential for network design. To help you with that, you can calculate your PoE budget, and that’s what this tutorial is all about.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Skylo, a partner of Google, Samsung, and Verizon, has successfully completed its first satellite-powered voice calls. Using satellites from Viasat and EchoStar, the company says its network can support tens of millions of calls monthly per region. 
• Google has rolled out the new My Pixel App, replacing Pixel Tips. Designed to be the all-in-one hub for Pixel devices, the app helps users unlock their phone’s full potential with tips, tools, and easy access to features.
• Google is rolling out two new Translate updates: a customized language practice tool to set your level and goals, and a real-time translation upgrade that switches between languages seamlessly. Now available on Android and iOS.
• Starting Sept. 9, Taco Bell is reviving five nostalgic items for a limited time, including the Cool Ranch Doritos Locos Taco, Double Decker Taco, 7-Layer Burrito, Chili Cheese Burrito, and Caramel Apple Empanada. The throwback also includes themed merch like a bedazzled Ed Hardy hat.

Hey there, it’s Wednesday! 🍑 Today is National Peach Day, and we’re all about celebrating this sweet, juicy summer fruit. Whether you enjoy them fresh, grilled, or in a cobbler, peaches just taste like sunshine, don’t they?

In This Issue: Making Work Enjoyable, Together | Deal of the Day | TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender | Cisco Virtual Stacking | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Making Work Enjoyable, Together

Happy Wednesday! We’re halfway through the week, and I just want to share a little reminder of what makes work feel less like work and more like fun.

I love working at CK because it’s not just about the job, it’s about the experience. What I enjoy most is the culture. It keeps things light with laughs, teamwork, and small moments that make the day more enjoyable. We celebrate wins together, support each other through challenges, and even on the busiest days, we find ways to make work genuinely enjoyable.

It’s rare to be part of a place where teamwork feels like spending time with friends while still achieving big goals. That’s exactly what makes it so special. That’s the CK Way!

Aaron

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Say goodbye to Wi-Fi dead zones with the TP-Link RE315 AC1200 Range Extender. Designed to work with any standard router, this dual-band extender expands your existing network to deliver smooth, reliable internet throughout your home. Featuring OneMesh™ technology, the RE315 integrates seamlessly with compatible TP-Link routers to form a unified whole-home network—so you stay connected even while moving room to room.

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Learning Center Article – Unlocking the Potential of Cisco Virtual Stacking for Simplified Network Management

A Cisco virtual stack allows you to connect switches into a logical stack without the need for direct, physical connections. The stacks do have to be connected at some point, but you can virtually stack switches together that are not in the same room or even in the same building. That’s a powerful tool. At the same time, virtual stacking allows you to create and manage virtual switches.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Plaud has unveiled the Plaud Note Pro, an upgraded version of its credit card-sized AI note-taking device. Like its predecessor, it records, transcribes, and summarizes conversations, but now adds two extra microphones for clearer pickup within 16 feet, plus a 1-inch display for battery, status, and mode tracking. 
• Pop superstar Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce are officially engaged, announcing the news on Instagram Tuesday. The post racked up nearly 14 million likes in just the first hour, marking the latest milestone in the sports-entertainment world’s most-watched romance.
• SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral on Wednesday morning, deploying 28 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit.
• Starting Sept. 3, McDonald’s is launching its Special Edition Gold Sauce, a tangy mix of BBQ and honey mustard, available for dipping or on four new items: McCrispy Strips, Special Edition Gold Snack Wrap, Bacon Special Edition Gold McCrispy Sandwich, and its Deluxe version.

It’s Tuesday! 🐶 Today is National Dog Day, a time to celebrate pups of all kinds—mutts, mixes, and purebreds alike. Got a four-legged friend? Share some lovely photos with us—we’d love to see those wagging tails!

In This Issue: Balance Life & Enjoy the Journey | Deal of the Day | Flat Angle Power Extension Cord | Cat8 Ethernet Cable | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Balance Life & Enjoy the Journey

Life with two young teenagers in multiple sports is a constant juggling act. Weekdays are a blur of early mornings, packing lunches, making sure bags are packed, car rides to and from practices, games, and school. Weekends aren’t much different; they’re just busier for us, with games and tournaments all over the Southeast. Add in the emotional highs and lows of teenage life, the pep talks, the tough conversations, the late-night homework crisis, and it’s a full-time job all on its own. Not to mention there’s everything else: a career, a house that doesn’t clean itself, bills to pay, meals to cook, laundry… SOS!

One of our core values at CK is ‘Balance Life & Enjoy the Journey’.

Balancing life and enjoying the journey is so important, as an employee going on 16 years here, I can’t think of many times where I’ve had to miss important events for my kids from doctor’s appointments, carpools catching up on their days, simply being there whenever they need me. That flexibility doesn’t make life less full, but it does make it more meaningful. It gives space to be present, not just physically, but emotionally, for the things that matter most. That kind of freedom is priceless when you’re raising kids who grow up faster than you expect. The days are long, but the years are short, and being able to show up for them, even in small ways, is invaluable.

Enjoy your week!

Mandy

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This extension cord has 3 grounded outlets and ideal for home and office use, it has a flat angle Plug that fits almost anywhere great solution for space limitations between furniture and electrical devices such as TV sets, home tethers systems, office cubicles and much more.

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Learning Center Article – What is a Cat8 Ethernet Cable and How is it Different?

A Cat8 Ethernet cable represents the most modern, fastest Ethernet cable standard available today. Although Google tried to make fiber optics the standard for home internet connections, Ethernet has maintained a presence, and every few years new iterations are released that offer better performance.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• As AI becomes part of daily life, psychiatrists are flagging a new concern: “AI psychosis.” The condition is marked by paranoia, distorted thoughts, or delusions triggered by interactions with chatbots. Warning signs include social withdrawal, neglect of self-care, and rising anxiety—adding that professional help should be sought if these patterns emerge. 
• Google may be gearing up to refresh its Nest lineup with four new products: indoor and outdoor cams, a doorbell, and a smart speaker. The cameras could see 2K resolution, 6x zoom, and even Gemini-powered features, while the new doorbell may introduce “Daily Summaries.”
• AT&T is set to acquire wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar for about $23 billion, boosting its fiber and 5G build-out across 400+ U.S. markets. The move strengthens AT&T’s low- and mid-band spectrum holdings, while EchoStar will expand Boost Mobile under a new hybrid MNO agreement.
• Pumpkin spice is back — along with Dunkin’s new Cereal N’ Milk drinks. But a dietitian warns the Coolatta version has sky-high sugar (93g in a small!). For a lighter option, stick with the latte.

Happy Monday! Let’s start the week with some budget-friendly style—it’s National Secondhand Wardrobe Day! Thrift finds and vintage treasures are calling. Have you scored any great secondhand steals lately?

In This Issue: Growing with Purpose, Living with Balance | Deal of the Day | Power Extension Cord | SFP Modules | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Growing with Purpose, Living with Balance

New week, fresh start—let’s make it a good one!

At our company, we believe that success isn’t just about hitting milestones—it’s about how we get there. That’s why one of our core values is Balance Life & Enjoy the Journey.

In the fast-paced world of network infrastructure and e-commerce, it’s easy to fall into the trap of measuring everything by deadlines, targets, and checklists. But we know that if we want to build something sustainable—both as a company and as individuals—we have to balance hard work with personal well-being.

Many of us work from home, which brings both freedom and responsibility. It requires discipline to stay focused, but it also gives us the chance to blend our professional and personal lives in healthier ways. That balance helps us show up with more energy, creativity, and resilience.

Enjoying the journey means more than just getting the job done. It’s about celebrating the small wins, laughing with our teammates, and remembering that relationships—whether with coworkers, customers, or family—are at the heart of why we do what we do.

We don’t take ourselves too seriously. Yes, we’re dedicated to solving problems, serving our customers, and delivering results. But we also know that humor, joy, and connection make us better at what we do. They keep us grounded and remind us that work is only one part of a much bigger picture.

That’s what “Balance Life & Enjoy the Journey” means to us: building a company that grows with a true purpose while never losing sight of the people, relationships, and laughter that make the journey worthwhile.

Martin

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This 6-foot, 16/3 gauge SJTW power extension cord is designed for outdoor use, blending seamlessly into your landscape environment. Ideal for powering holiday lights, bug zappers, and other yard decorations, it offers water resistance, flame retardance, and abrasion protection. Nickel-coated brass blades resist corrosion, and the cord remains flexible in temperatures from -40ºF to +140ºF for reliable year-round use.

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Learning Center Article – What Are SFP Modules?

Small form-factor pluggable (SFP) transceivers are a core technology in many networks, providing communication between switches and important network components. It’s a compact, hot-swappable device used in modern networks. SFP’s are popular due to their small size, versatile connection options (copper or fiber optic), and hot swappable capability.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Planning a Labor Day getaway? Expect record crowds on the roads and in airports nationwide. The upside: lower prices on flights, hotels, rentals, and gas—plus faster TSA checkpoints at select airports. 
• Apple is reportedly in talks with Google to power a revamped Siri using Gemini AI, with a potential launch in 2026. The move highlights Apple’s push to boost its AI capabilities through outside partnerships.
• Starbucks’ iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte is back on Tuesday, Aug. 26, leading the coffee chain’s fall menu of seasonal treats. First launched over 20 years ago, the PSL remains Starbucks’ most popular seasonal drink ever.
• Postal services worldwide are halting shipments to the U.S. as new import duties take effect Friday. The end of the long-standing “de minimis” rule means packages over $100 will now face tariffs, raising concerns about delays and backlogs.

Friday feels—who’s ready for the weekend? It’s National Bao Day—aka the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a soft, steamy bun stuffed with savory (or sweet!) goodness. Ever tried one?

In This Issue: A Return to Our Roots: Rediscovering Our Core Values | Deal of the Day | Cast Aluminum Cable Distribution Rings | The Power of DisplayPort | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – A Return to Our Roots: Rediscovering Our Core Values

Core values are more than words on a page. They shape how we treat one another, how we serve our customers, and how we define success beyond just financial results. They remind us of what really matters and act as a compass when decisions are tough. Without them, it’s easy to drift. With them, we have clarity, direction, and purpose.

Back in 2018, we made a change to our core values. At the time, it seemed like the right move. But even though I was the one who led the change, I never could get comfortable with the new set. I found myself avoiding talking about them or using them to guide conversations and decisions. They simply didn’t feel right for us.

A couple of weeks ago, I made the decision to go back to the four values that had carried us for so long. These were not the very first values from the very beginning of CablesAndKits (back then we had eight), but these four became the heart of who we were and how we operated for many years. When I went back to them, I also made some updates and refinements to the wording so they could more fully capture what they mean to us today.

Here are our four core values, in their updated form:

Do the Right Thing
We do the right thing even when no one is watching. We abide by the highest moral and ethical standards and conduct ourselves with integrity and honesty. We seek to honor the Lord through our work.

Serve Others
We act with an “I’m for you” mentality and perpetually seek ways to serve others. We collaborate with humility and appreciation to positively impact our team, our customers, our vendors, and others within our sphere of influence.

Raise the Bar
Good is the enemy of great. We celebrate continuous improvement and build processes that don’t fail. We believe that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing excellently and with continuous improvement. We are disciplined people, engaged in disciplined thought, resulting in disciplined action. We also value respectful irreverence, which means the ability to challenge assumptions, ask tough questions, and push for better while honoring those around us.

Balance Life & Enjoy the Journey
Life is not only about the destination, but also about enjoying the journey getting there. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and we take time to love, laugh, and foster relationships both at work and at home.

These values aren’t just ideals. They are the foundation of how we want to live, work, and lead together. They remind us of who we are at our best, and they give us something to hold onto when things get hard.

I’m excited to once again be talking about and living out these values every day at CablesAndKits. If you’d like to see how our values play out in real life, I invite you to explore more stories on our blog. You can also learn more about who we are on our About Us page. And if these values sound like the kind of culture you’d love to be part of, check out our Careers page!

Craig Haynie – CEO

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This 3″ cast aluminum cable distribution ring provides a durable and versatile solution for managing and routing cables in structured wiring environments. Designed for surface mounting on walls, ceilings, or inside cabinets, they help organize cables while preventing kinks, sagging, or damage. The smooth, rounded edges ensure cables remain protected, and the sturdy aluminum construction is ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.

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Learning Center Article – Say Goodbye to Poor Graphics: The Power of DisplayPort Explained

In today’s digital age, achieving superior video and audio quality is essential for everything from gaming to professional presentations. DisplayPort stands out as a leading technology for high-definition connections, offering a powerful solution for transmitting both video and audio signals. Its growing popularity across various applications of gaming, professional displays, and home theaters has made it a go-to standard for many users.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Google is rolling out its AI Mode to 180 countries (English-only), after months of testing. Powered by Gemini, AI Mode delivers direct answers instead of just links, now with added personalization and agent-like capabilities. 
• Southwind Foods has recalled frozen shrimp distributed July 17–Aug. 8, 2025, across nine states, including CA, AZ, PA, VA, and WA, due to possible Cesium-137 contamination. Long-term exposure to the radionuclide may increase cancer risk.
• Tesla has raised the price of its top-tier Cybertruck by $15,000 in the U.S., despite slower-than-expected sales and recent recalls following its delayed rollout.
• Lay’s is launching Hot Sauce (with Frank’s RedHot), Wavy Loaded Nachos, and Kettle Cooked Cheesy Buffalo Dip chips. The new flavors are hitting retailers nationwide in both regular and club-sized bags.